A Look Back

Warrnambool was definitely not part of the world tour itinerary but has since become an integral link in our adventure. Weird to think that our plans seldom follow a projected course and, more often than not, lead us to something greater than we could have imagined. Flexibility shines brightly as the reoccuring theme to this journey. Mastering this quality is not particulary easy but I would like to believe that we have made great strides to figuring it out and rolling with the inevitable punches.
Recently we discovered that in order to extend our visitor's visas we would need to undergo x-ray tests for TB. Needless to say, we immediately researched and opted for the cheapest alternative. Hence, this morning found us in the Warrnambool Flight Centre with questions as to the most reasonably priced tickets out of the country. New Zealand is our most likely "getaway" destination and we are thrilled to add yet another country to our list. Flexibilty strikes yet again!

Many shining moments come to mind when contemplating the past 10 weeks. Invaribaly the relationships made are amongst the greatest highlights. Warrnambool Baptist Church has been a haven for us in the time we have been here and the infamous -in my opinion- singles' group has slowly grown on me. (Mom, I can hear you laughing!) We have made some great friends through the group (kudos to Joel, James, Andrew, Scotty, Steph, Lauren, Camilla, Tony, and Sharon) and a few are planning to return the favor by visiting us.

The not-so-shining moments are great for a laugh and we have done our fair share of laughing. Hilko "two wheels" van Til got ticketed for speeding (a mere 7 kms over the speed limit, mind you) and thinks, periodically, about slowing down his driving habits.
I get the repeated "volume meter" talk as I tend to speak and laugh loudly. I often get the look from my well-meaning siblings that says, "Turn it down a few notches"
On my first day at work I was using the electrical hedge trimmers and cut clean through the line, resulting in a power shortage. Thankfully no one was hurt and Hilko was able to cut and rewire the extension chord while Erick reset the fuses.
While Erick was taking out a piece of the wall, a section came loose and fell the wrong way resulting in the demolition of our plastic lunch table.
Annette's not-so-shining moments are continuous so it's hard to differentiate where one ends and the other begins! (hahahaha----poor thing----for peace of mind Annette is sitting next to me laughing and nodding in agreement)

In fact, I think our all-time best moment was getting stranded in the Otways because our car ran out of gas. Thankfully, our friend, Lauren, was with us and Erick, Annette, and her were able to head into the nearest town to buy some gas. Hilko and I chilled in the car on the side of the road and had a great heart-to-heart. It was the most random scenario but it is undoubtedly one of the best talks I have ever had with him. I firmly believe that the best memories are made when you least expect them.