10,533 miles (16,951km) to Down Under for 365 days

For the next 12 months of my life, I will be traveling to Australia to do biomedical engineering research through the Whitaker International Fellowship. I will be away from my family and friends, so I wanted to let everyone know what I'm up to if I can't contact them frequently.

[dbamin212]

Rucksack full of Australia

As my time in Australia comes to an end, I keep getting this question about what am I going to take back about Australia? Or what am I going to the miss the most? 

Well honestly, that list is actually quite long! I'll say something and then remember something else I can say to answer the questions as well.  So I decided that I'd jot all of my thoughts down as they come to me.  There is so much about this wonderful country and its people that I will take back and share with my fellow Americans ... and I know there is a heap more that I will miss.  

Every morning on my drive to work, I drive past the ocean.  Stop on the side and take it. 

NETBALL

Heaps good, Keen (Aussie Lingo) 

TIMTAMS

The People

The creatures that are quadruple the size of normal ones

Hills

Wine Country

Adelaide City 

Ramsgate

BEBES 

Frisbee

Flinders Gym including my lovely boxing partner

Driving and Swimming on the Left

Central Market 

Knowing that I only have a little bit of time before netball and my brain is fried from a day at work ... I'm going to stop and add to this list another time. 

[dbamin212]

AFL vs NFL

The never ending question that I get from every Australian sport enthusiast: How does AFL compare to NFL?! 

Looking back on my responses to every time I was asked this ... I think it has changed heaps from when I first arrived to Australia and now. I used to say NFL was better than AFL but now I can see that the two games of football are extremely different.  They both have their positives and negatives but I enjoy both quite equally :)!

Now, I am absolutely obsessed with AFL and think it's amazing! A year ago, I thought the Aussies were lunatics when they were raving about the Grand Final.  I didn't get it.  We were on the way to the Gold Coast and the boys were trying to live stream it as we were driving cross country.  I just didn't know what it was.  To me, the only type of football I know was NFL, which I am obsessed with (I'm sure everyone knows this already)! 

Now that I've been introduced to footy, I can't seem to stop watching it.  If I'm home Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday ... that's what's on my TV.  Its a very interesting sport and definitely gives NFL a run for its money! 

The game is extremely fast paced with 30 minute quarters played on an oval.  If they kick the ball through the middle goal it's 6 points and called a goal.  If they kick the ball through the two side goals, it's called a behind and worth one point.  The only sport where you can score if you miss the goal. They pass the ball via handballs and kicks.  They aren't allowed to hold on to the ball ... if they're running with the ball they have to bounce it on the field every x amount of meters to keep running with it.  And everyone is constantly being tackled, however, they wear NO PADDING.  These men are ridiculously fit and brave.  I feel as if there is at least one bloody nose every game.  It's absolutely crazy.  I think the best part about AFL is that the guys are absolutely gorgeous ... love watching them play.  

For some serious info on the rules:

http://www.aflrules.com.au/afl-game-rules/ 

Footy also isn't just played by the professional ... it's the thing to do as an Aussie!! Everyone plays footy at some level, it's crazy! 

Because of my friends, I have began to support the Port Adelaide Power. Luckily, Port has been play really well and have made the playoffs.  Last Sunday, I was able to go to an AFL finals match and Port killed it.  7 goals in a row in the first quarter against Richmond who was coming off a 9 game winning streak.  It was absolutely brilliant.  Such and awesome game and I can't wait for this week.  Port is playing Fremantle and hopefully they win and we see them in the Grand Final in two weeks.

Like every sports them, there is a connotation associated with PORT.  There are two teams in Adelaide: Port Power and Adelaide Crows.  Port is known as the "bogan" team.  Though, I don't really care...I think it's really funny how serious this connotation is.  Everyone knows it and alludes to it at some point when expressing your team.  However, after going to the port games ... I do see where the "bogan" connotation comes from but it doesn't bother me.  I've fallen in love with the team and can't wait to keep supporting them! 

During my first couple of games, I didn't know what to yell when I was getting into the game.  There all are a lot of phrases that the Aussies use.  I haven't quite caught on to them all but I am learning.  So I would usually yell "don't get tackled!" .... Well this lovely phrase as blown up and I get made fun of for using it.  So if you're ever watching AFL ... yell don't get tackled at least once for me ;) 

In two weeks, I will have experienced a full season of AFL (footy) and I can't imagine next year without it (I'm going to have to stream it of something).  Can't wait for the Grand Final ... cross your fingers Port is in it :)      

[dbamin212]

Still Blogging … Don't Worry

It's been about three months since I last wrote a blog.  Why? I don't honestly know.  Could be because of a couple reasons: 

1. Been too busy? 

2. Nothing inspiring has happened? [probably not]

3. Taking in and enjoying Australia for my own

4. I've become Australian [friends can tell you this is not it]

It's a mixture of all of these.  Honestly, I do feel like I am Australian.  I am just living and enjoying life now, nothing is too new or exciting anymore.  That's probably why I haven't been writing much.  I still come across novelty every week but it's not something I need to blog about.  I appreciate it for myself and then move on.  See I've become Australian, well in the sense that I'm residing in Australia ;).  

In about 10 days, it will be my one year anniversary and I can't believe it.  Let's just say this year has flown by even though at first it didn't seem like it would.  I'll officially be home in the USA on October 7th. I couldn't have asked for a better 12 months.  So many ups and downs but all of which contributed to my growth as a mature individual.  It definitely has been my hardest year thus far but one that I would never give up.  Without it, I don't think I would be who I am now or who I will be in the future.  There is still so much more reflecting to do [which will probably happen when I return] but as for now, I know that I will be coming home as a better more awesome version of myself.  So friends and family --> get ready :).  

I think my biggest surprise is the amount of friends I'll be coming home with.  I actually didn't think that I would make life long friends in this year that I was away, but I have.  I can't wait to see where or when we meet up again, but I know even if we don't, we will always be friends.  Coming into this experience, I thought it would be something, which put me ahead in my career.  Though it kind of did [not really that much], I think I got so much more out of it when it came to the people I met and the experiences I had.   I still have a month left here and I know that it too, will be awesome. I can't thank everyone here enough. You've taken me in and made me a part of your family.  I've both laughed and cried with you and it's been absolutely wonderful to see our friendships grow and evolve into forever.  

Nothing in the world can keep me from coming back here.  A beautiful country with beautiful people and I recommend everyone to visit! 

[Commence the crying --> what's new]

[dbamin212]

Vegetarianism is Quite Unhealthy

My man man, Albert Einstein, hits the hammer on the head! I completely agree to a degree.  I have been a vegetarian my entire life and I don't think I'll ever stop!  Though there are religious reasons to why I am vegetarian, I also believe it is a healthy diet, if done correctly. 

I don't think many people realize how unhealthy vegetarianism can be especially if you eat out often! I think there are many reasons for why this can be.  

Eating out --> The issue with eating out is that most vegetarians will load up on the carbs because there aren't many options besides a salad (which honestly isn't filing) Prime example: I usually just order the pasta without the meat or the wrap/sandwich without the meat.  Well without the meat, there is no more protein in the meal and you're just loading up on carbs.  Another example: Going out for fast food ... the go to option is fries and a shake because there is no veggie burger option.  Hell, any restaurant with meat heavy dishes, you'll ended up eating the fries, chips, or wedges.  Even at nice places this can happen.  I went to a steakhouse in Kansas once (probably not the best idea but it happened) and all I could eat was fried food.  Fried zucchini, fried pickles and some other fried stuff.... and that's what I had for dinner because vegetarians usually just conform; they don't want to be a hassle! So unless you go to a vegetarian friendly environment, eating out options are actually quite unhealthy.  

We also do take in less protein, which sucks but a smart vegetarian knows his/her substitutes and doesn't have that problem.  However, most vegetarians don't understand this or don't know how to substitute for meats.  Not eating meat, means you also have to fill your stomach up with more food to feel full! For non-veg ... dinner is easy.  A strong protein like chicken, some greens, and a carb ... perfect, easy done! But it's not as easy for vegetarians.  Protein won't fill you up like chicken! So you'll always need that rice or bread! Here we go with the carbs.  

I think the biggest issue with vegetarians is that we forget to substitute and eat healthy.  Instead we just go for the easiest option and that's carbs! Just because we can't have grilled chicken, doesn't mean we can start eating unhealthy.  

I am so guilty of this and have been my entire life.  I think this year is when I realized how crap I have been eating.  I am not saying vegetarianism is unhealthy but I am saying it can be a lot more healthy if vegetarians took more notice of what they are eating.  I also don't want everyone to assume that being vegetarian means you're healthy because it sure doesn't.  

I just needed to express my opinions. Thanks for reading!

#my2cents

[dbamin212]

True Strength

Time and Time again, you'll hear about the hardships that famous musicians and actors had to overcome to be the best in the world.  It's a touching story and can give you that motivation to thrive for more until you lose it again.  I think we all know someone in our lives who no matter what fights for what they love and believe in but that's as far as it goes.  Rarely, do we understand that person's determination and use to improve our lives.  I know that this is the case for me.  I am surrounded by individuals that continuously fight for what they believe in or love no matter what hardship comes their way.  However, I don't use it to my advantage.  I should thrive off their passion --> if they can fight for it, then I can too! 

Well, I haven't used it to my advantage until I met this one special lady! I am beyond blessed to have her in my life.  The radiance and the strength that she spreads by just being around is absolutely beautiful and she is one of the reasons why I have had an amazing time in Australia.  There is so much heart and soul in this girl, I just am blown away by it.  This year may not have been the best for her, but up to this date she has gone head strong into every single battle and come out winning (I want to say #winning here for some reason).  No matter what is going on in her world, she knows where her passion lies and is always true to herself: whether it's uni, work, or her social life.  She is so driven and determined to do what she wants no matter if she fails the first time around.  Not only is she the rock for herself but she has also been a rock for all of us in our friend circle.  Always there to talk to no matter what and always willing to take you in if anything is wrong.  She just expels this energy that is so positive and strong that no matter what time of mood you're in ... it just pushes makes you want to be strong just like her.  I can honestly say that this energy that I just mentioned is what got me through the last couple of months! She is my role model.  I want to be me that much of an individual and that independent as I get older.  I want to constantly go after my passions no matter what! I want to be strong, strong for myself and others! 

I don't know if it takes four or five people like this to open your eyes but it definitely has taken me 22 years to realize that these are the type of people I want to constantly surround myself with and thrive off of! They help you grow as a person and fight for your passions --> what makes you happy!  She isn't the only strong person I have in my life.  I have so many but she has opened my eyes to how I can benefit from the energy around me! How I, too, can thrive and be strong! 

Thank you so much Hedgie! You mean so much to me and definitely have made my experience here so much better! I love you --> like a sistaaaa! 

Didn't mean to single you out but with this past weekend and yesterday, it has just been very reflective! 

[dbamin212]

Manuscript is Submitted

All I would like to say is that my first manuscript has been submitted.  I have many thoughts about it ... both positive and negative but all in all I am very proud of the manuscript.  Feel free to contact me if you want to know my opinions on the manuscript but it's been a great success and an amazing effort from my team of co-authors! #celebration 

Unfortunately, now starts the painful editing and review process.  There is even a possibility of outright rejections.  But hey, if it gets rejected, you just live and learn.  And move on I guess haha.  

"You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to great" <-- Hit the Hammer on the Head!

[dbamin212]

The World of Osteo-s

Last Friday, I set up an observation at an Osteopathic Clinic here in Adelaide.  Osteopathic medicine is the new thing in the USA and quickly becoming popular.  I have not observed a DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) in the USA but I thought I'd try here.  I don't really know much about Osteopathic Medicine either. All I knew before going in was it's more a holistic approach to medicine and Andrew Still was the founder of osteopathic medicine. However, after my observation I definitely learned a lot more than I anticipated.  I've realized that in the USA osteopathic medicine is quite mainstream (Similar to MD programs) and the manipulations founded by Andrew Still are quite rarely used.  In Australia though, the original teachings of Andrew Still are the basis of osteopathy. Becoming an Osteo is nothing like becoming a doctor and it is more linked in with chiropractors and physios.  The osteo that I shadowed does consider the whole body and it is actually amazing how she manipulates the body to naturally stop the pain or what ever the target area is.  During my time there, I was able to see her do cranial manipulation on a down syndrome baby.  It is shown that cranial manipulation can help reduce the typical facial features of someone with down syndrome.  It is actually true, this baby does not look like someone with down syndrome and the pictures show a difference.  It was absolutely wonderful to watch the reactions of the baby as the osteo was applying the therapy.  The baby could really feel what was going on and react appropriately.  It is definitely not a systematic approach at all ... there is a lot of room to develop your own routines and address patient's issues in a variety of ways.  

I don't know if this observation has solidified my interest in osteopathic medicine but it definitely was interesting to experience. I also appreciate what osteo-s do and that type of medicine.  It definitely isn't a myth and does work! 

#whatidoinaustralia #onlyme

[dbamin212]

International Orthopedic Workshop

For the past two days, the Medical Device Research Institute (MDRI) held a small international orthopedic workshop that included members from a variety of fields.  There were about 20-30 attendees from Italy, Netherlands, UK, Austria, and Australia with backgrounds in orthopaedic engineering, orthopaedic surgery, medical device industry, and regulations.  It was quite a workshopand definitely a different format to your normal conference.  MDRI held 8 sessions throughout the two days addressing different aspects of the Medical Device world.  Each session had two presentations with about 30-45 minutes of discussion afterwards.  For me, I gained the most knowledge from the discussion when everyone was collaboratively thinking and we had view points from all four disciplines thrown out there.  

Quite difficult to explain the general gist but I'll try.  I think what MDRI wanted from the workshop was an ultimate goal regarding medical devices that all four disciplines can agree on and how each discipline will work towards that goal collaboratively! ... was this accomplished? I don't know.  But the workshop definitely was a start.  Opinions from all sides were heard loud and clear.  For those of you who don't know much about the medical device world ... I'll give you a little background.  The medical device industry has come a long way in the last 15 years but it's still quite not there! ... There are quite a few problems that still need to be addressed. But the process basically includes: designing of a new implant, rigorous testing of an implant, commercialize the implant, and then use it in the medical world.  But it's not as cookie cutter as I made it sound.  There a lot of clashes amongst the people who are involved in the process.  I think it's because everyone has their own agenda ... ultimately the device is about the patient but we can't get ourselves to all agree.  The designers are usually start-up companies who do not have enough money to test the device as thoroughly as the bigger companies like Johnson&Johnson ... so their product goes on market and fails ... this is what everyone don't want but it happens.  Money is a huge issue in this process.  

Ultimately there is only so much testing that the engineers can do.  We can't predict everything in the future.  This is what the workshop addressed.  All the tools engineers have to test these devices and see if they help the industry or physicians.  Clinical trials are difficult to complete with medical devices and very expensive.  So a lot of testing is done in-vitro or FE modeling.... however there are many flaws with both of these types of testing plus all the variation in human tissue doesn't help.  Bigger companies spend a ton of money for in-vitro testing and FE modeling but the devices still fail and the testing can't predict this failure.  There is also a disconnect between the industry folk and surgeons.  Basically surgeons have their own agenda and sometimes refrain from training when using a new device ... all this leads to failure as well. But these aren't the only aspects that affect failure ... the patients daily lifestyle and rehab also affect it.  These factors are out of their control ... it's on the patients part.  But from what I gather...patient expectations on functionality after surgery are a lot higher than how they actually function after the surgery.  This is causing the patient unhappiness after a total knee or hip replacement.  

So why don't we put tougher and more measurable regulations on Medical Devices? Well, that's what the workshop addressed and it all boiled down to money.  Researchers don't have enough money to establish proper/appropriate regulations.  In addition, the Medical Device industry is far away from a strict protocol when establishing a new device on the market.  The pharmaceutical industry has a standard protocol but that was developed through years of researching the registry to see what the problems actually were and addressing those problems.  So now if a new drug has a problem when going through the process to go on market ... developers can address that problem easily because they have this data bank of knowledge.  In the medical device industry, there hasn't been much research through the registry to really establish a pattern of failures or what are we looking for when a device fails.  So a strict protocol can't actually be developed.  I think we need understand what is going on after surgery in patients to develop helpful tools for those creating the devices. We are too eager to create new and upcoming devices but we haven't stopped and thought about the millions of patients who are living life with the old ones.  We need to improve ... and not only improve in-vitro testing and FE modeling results ... but improve according to what the patient wants and needs.  

There is so much more I could talk about but don't want to write a book.  Two other things I observed at this conference.  1. There is a huge lack of communication among the four disciplines that were present ... We need to communicate with each other to develop these devices and it's just not happening to its optimum level. BRIDGE THE GAP!!! We all need to speak the same language and set the same goals.  Work together as a team ... this is the missing link in my eyes.  Doctors ... you need the engineers and and engineers ... you need the doctors! Industry people ... well you need both the doctors and engineers! It's just how it is! 2. This conference has about 20-30 attendees .. of these 5-6 were female! ... I know this is an issue around the world but come on! Of the 5-6 three were students who were not involved in the discussion.  So almost everyone part of the workshop was male.  And only one female spoke throughout the entire thing during discussion.  This is embarrassing and quite frankly made me mad. 

So on that note ... the conference was pretty good and I learned so much! It was really nice to see all those people sit in one room and share ideas! 

[dbamin212]

Bus nightmare

It's been about three months since I've relied on the bus to get me from point A to point B. And let me just tell you I'm completely okay with that! These past two days taking the bus into city for a conference have been a nightmare. Bus drivers are idiots. Stopping at the wrong zones. Showing up late or early. I'm currently sitting at the bus stop because I missed my bus.... Why? Because he stopped at zone A and not zone B, where he was supposed to. If we want to reduce pollution ... I say we freaking fix our public transport system first. Not only in the big cities but everywhere!!!! More cars are on the road because the public transport is unreliable. #my2cents

[dbamin212]

[dbamin212]

Winter is Coming!

Ignoring my two posts today, my last post was on March 25th, when I was en route to Rome :\.  So I guess, it's been awhile.  I think I'm starting to settle into daily life here and becoming a local Aussie! Basically, my surroundings and my life isn't as entertaining or new as it was 5 months ago! At least, I don't think so! I have been up to some crazy fun but nothing too out of the ordinary!

April was a slow and frustrating month! Jet lag took over my first week in April ... I have never experienced so much jet lag.  I would stay up all night and fall asleep at like 5 am and wouldn't wake up until 2-3 pm .. out cold for that time being.  Well this completely ruined my work schedule and threw me off.  It also started my month of homesickness  --> probably because I was up during hours that no one around me was up and then I slept while everyone was going about their day!  The jet lag finally went away but the homesickness didn't.  It's been tough and most nights I just want to go home because everything is so familiar there but honestly everything at home now isn't as familiar as it used to be.  I've been gone a long time! I'm stuck in a limbo where I appreciate my lifestyle in Australia but also greatly appreciate my life in the USA.  In addition, the homesickness is being played up more because my research isn't going as planned and I'm not as productive as I was at home! It's frustrating that I can't be passionate about what I'm doing because nothing is happening and it's out of my control!  I expected a turnover in work after I returned from Rome but nothing has yet to happen and I haven't even started the testing for my study and I've been here now 9 months.  Shut down mode has hit! I've done everything in my power to make things happen but I'm letting luck take its' course now!  Hopefully, I get some research out of this experience! But not to be a debbie downer, I did learn a lot about myself and what I do not want out of a career ... this only means one step closer to finding out what I want to do with my life hahah! 

On a fun note, I am loving my lifestyle here and all of my friends! Throughout March and April, I've meet so many new people and made a couple new friendships! It's been quite entertaining! I also went skydiving for the second time! It was absolutely wonderful.  To anyone thinking about going ... I would jump from 14,000 feet instead of 10,000 ... a lot more fun! (at least I think so).  I totally recommend it to EVERYONE! I also went to my last music festival in Australia, Groovin the Moo! Great music, I'm definitely coming home with some new music under my belt! Easter was great too, spent it with the Aussie family and I think that's April for us! A lot of work and gym flow in between! Plus it's getting ridiculously cold outside! I know I'm from the US and it's not as cold as like freezing (32F) but it's still cold.  Our apartment tends to be consistently chilly and I think that's contributing to my coldness during the day.  So to combat this ... I've picked up a couple new beanies! I'm loving them! Keeping my head warm hahah! And finally, May is my clean eating/exercising month! I want to be super fit in the next four weeks! So I'm being healthy hahah! So excited finish these four weeks and get my results.  It's day two and I can't wait to get to punch pad! Excited to throw some punches :)! 

On that I'll leave you with this!

"Mistakes are proof that you're trying" 

[dbamin212]

I haven't updated everyone about my trip to Rome for the Whitaker Conference! The conference was honestly a blessing in disguise.   I was able to hang out with 60 of the most amazing people I have met! Everyone there was uber smart and so passionate about their research.  It was very refreshing to see and on top of all that ... we were all Americans living abroad --> so I would say we had a lot of similar stories happening! The conference definitely gave me a huge motivation boost from seeing how much everyone was doing and getting involved in!  I'm definitely lucky to be part of this community and extremely excited to keep the relationships I've made through the program.  I can't thank Whitaker enough for giving me this opportunity to be in Australia for a year and flying me out to Rome to the conference.  It's honestly been a dream come true!  I would have to say the story of the week (in Rome) was Obama! He was there the same week we were and definitely caused a huge commotion.  Unfortunately, he wasn't the guest speaker at our conference and we didn't get to meet him! But hey, we saw his motorcade go by and the secret service the night we tried meeting him! I would say, that's the closest I've ever been to the President of the United States! (I find that a bit ridiculous.... I want to meet him!).

All in all, the conference was an amazing experience.  A lot of networking and a lot of research.  Most of the research went over my head but it definitely was awesome seeing how much people are doing for the world. Engineering isn't just about making money ... it's about improving daily life, it's about making miracles come true and it's about helping people! ...exactly why I wanted to be an engineer! 

[dbamin212]

Technology is your new best friend?

*This post was inspired by the link I just posted (A video called Look Up)*

I would have to say I am one of the biggest advocates of technology solely because I think it's amazing how much technology has improved in the last 20 odd years.  Technology has introduced us to a wealth of knowledge that our ancestors didn't even believe was possible. It's absolutely crazy how smart smartphones really are --> they know your favorite places, they know the people you talk to most, they know your boyfriend, and they know where you live! Utter ridiculousness ... basically everything your best friend would know! And I guess that's why we love our phones so much ... it's a best friend in your pocket (not literally). But is your smartphone really that important?

I mean if you ask me ... In January, I had to live without a smartphone for a month and I was struggling (even though I appreciated the time without one --> that's after I got my smartphone back). The biggest issue for me was I didn't have google maps readily available, which seriously limited the amount of traveling I did on the weekends because not having an up to date bus schedule could completely screw you over (in terms of time)! But not only that, I am pretty sure it put a strain on some of my relationships.  I am used to talking to my friends on my smartphone throughout the day and not only just my friends, my family too! The beauty of technology is that we can communicate across the world.  Even though I've moved to Australia, I can still have constant contact with the people I love back at home.  It's a beautiful thing! But am I too caught up in my phone? Am I too caught up with the people back home? Am I loosing site of what's in front of me because how much communication is available to me? Is there a happy medium? 

I think I want to address two points concerning this video that I just posted.  The first is ... I am definitely guilty of being caught up in my phone instead of paying attention to my surroundings.  Social media does take over my life: I have a tumblr, facebook, instagram, and snapchat.  Between those four ... I think I can safely say that there is way too much social media in my life. My excuse would be ... that's how I stay connected to all my friends and I would say that's valid.  I considered deleting my facebook but now I have friends all over the world ... how am I supposed to contact them if I don't have facebook or keep updated with their life if I don't have facebook! So honestly, it's a lose lose situation.  The second point I want to address is how moving to another country makes your realize how much people are dependent on their phones to keep them entertained.  Making friends is actually quite hard when everyone is tied to their phones.  Throw away trying to talk to someone on the bus because everyone has their headphones in (I'm guilty of it too).  It honestly is those conversations that you randomly have that blossom into awesome friendships or relationships.  Similar to the video (though not asking for directions), I just happened to wander into the STA travel store to pick up some brochures ... I honestly could of just grabbed them and left but I knew I had to put myself out there ... what comes out of it? ... An awesome friend who was a travel agent.  Most of my friendships are actually quite random and it's beautiful ... it's all because I stayed off my phone and tried to converse with someone! 

I guess what I am trying to say is ... take in the message of this video and try not to use your phone too much.  Yes there is a happy medium... but it's different for everyone! Find yours.  I know I'm going to stay away from my phone for the month and see where it takes me :) 

[dbamin212]

[dbamin212]

Boot Camp Forgetables

I think I mentioned this in my last post but in case I didn't... Just letting you know that I am doing an exercise boot camp at 6:30 am in the morning. I absolutely love it! However, when I head for the shower I tend to realize that I have forgotten something. There hasn't been one boot camp class where I have remembered everything I needed to get dressed and head to work. 1st boot camp class: forgot towel. Solution: use extra shirt in gym bag to dry off. And paper towels to dry hair. 2nd boot camp class: forgot all under garments. Solution: go commando... When it comes to underwear no one will know... As for a bra, thats kind of difficult so what do I do? I wear two shirts and remember I have a sweatshirt at work that I can put on so no one can tell... I hate admitting this but yes it happened! 3rd boot camp class: forgot shoes to go with work outfit Solution: wear sneakers + gross socks from boot camp 4th boot camp class: forget underwear Solution: go commando Yes my boot camp Forgetables have been quite the amusement for me for the past two weeks... Thank goodness I'm in rome this week so I can't forget anything... Oh wait forgot my entire winter wardrobe!!! It's below 20 degrees Celsius here. Wtf!!! Dying of cold. I can't seem to pack everything I need for any activity I'm involved in. Possible explanations for this? I pack for boot camp in the morning which means I'm bound to forget something. Maybe I need to start packing at night... But will that actually happen? Who knows?! I'll keep y'all updated ;) Ciao

[dbamin212]

What I've learned, from the characters of himym

Ted: Taught me that life will always go on, and even thought it sucks now the happy ending you deserve will come. He taught me that, it’s okay to have feelings and you should never hide them.

Marshall: Taught me to never give up on my dreams. to always fight for the little guy. He taught me to be goofy, and cherish the good times

Barney: Taught me to not always take things so seriously, do the things that make you happy even if others think you’re insane. He taught me that, people do in fact change, and are able to learn and grow from their mistakes.

Robin: Taught me that even if you’re strong and independent, it’s perfectly okay to ask for help when you need it. She taught me that, if you want to get somewhere in life you need to stand up for yourself, and to never settle for second best.

Lily: Taught me that it’s never too late to chase your dream and never give up on something you’re passionate about.

The gang: Taught me that, no matter how hard life gets, your friends will always be there to pick you back up.

Thank you all for 9 wonderful years. It was,

legen(wait for it) dary!

LEGENDARY!

And something I'll never forget.

[dbamin212]

...And we're halfway there

My time in Australia has come to the halfway mark and I know in the last three months, I haven't blogged as much as I should.  But I think I just needed to make the memories for myself and I wasn't quite ready to share.  This idea makes me think of Carrie, from The Carrie Dairies, she has an experience with a boy that she doesn't tell the girlfriends about because it's her memory and she's not quite ready to share it yet.  Now my memories aren't with boys but I've made so many amazing memories in these last three months that I know I am going to be balling my eyes out at the airport when it comes time to leave.  Hell, I'm going to Rome next week and I don't want to leave at all :\.  

So what have I done since December? Well .. I've just taken Australia in and learned so much about myself (still learning :)).  I went on holiday in December to the east coast of Australia and it was absolutely brilliant! Tyle accompanied me on this adventure and we met heaps of people on the Contiki tour.  But honestly, it was just an amazing experience.  I'm sure most of y'all saw the photos! I freaking went SKYDIVING!!! For those of you who don't know that I'm absolutely terrified of heights ... well now you know haha.  It honestly was the hardest thing for me to do but I took it quite well and had an amazing time! I am very thankful that Tyle was with me ... you definitely need a familiar face there.  I'm even going again with my roommate here in Adelaide.... I literally can't wait.  Such an amazing thrill--> definitely recommend it.  Besides skydiving, I climbed the Sydney Bridge and did the Skywalk ... yea really conquered my fear of heights haha.  It was honestly a beautiful trip and I wouldn't of changed a thing! We got to see one of the most beautiful beaches in the world (Buzz Feed Approved) ... it's called White Heaven.  It was breathtaking but the sand flies were not :\.  Finally, Tyle and I's favorite city (I reckon) was Melbourne.  It's just so hipster and so fun.  Not too big and not too small.  I was quite jealous that I didn't do my fellowship there.  But I am definitely going back when I do the great ocean road -- road trip. :).  Well that wonderful trip consumed almost all of December and beginning of January.  

January started the month of transformation.  I knew I was unhappy in my situation in Adelaide (living and transportation) ... so I made moves to fix that.  I must say it was a growing experience but one that I would never give up.  I took about 3 weeks to buy a car (I know me ... buy a car WT$). With the help of my parents and my machine shop guys, I was able to find a pretty decent car that I love.  It's a bright blue Ford Festiva.  It totally fits me hahha.  But not only did I get a car so I can be mobile in a city with crap public transportation, I moved literally 200 meters from the beach. YAY!!! My current roommate ended up needing to move out and she asked me if I would look for a place with her and I was like HELL YEA :).  I needed to get out of my share house.  I was utterly miserable and I would come home eat and watch shows on my computer (I can do that in the US --> honestly wasting my time and I hated it).  I'm beyond excited that Jade asked me to move in because since we found this place in West Beach it's been go go go and fun fun fun.  She is currently at Yorkes and I miss her soo much!! I like honestly don't know what to do hahaha.  We've become fast friends and I'm so excited for the next 6 months of living with her.  We had a third roommate but due to unfortunate circumstances he had to move back to Melbourne.  So we're looking for a new roommate now :( ::PLUG: If you're looking for a place to live ... we have a room available:: So yes, January consisted of life changes that I don't regret but appreciate.  I am extremely happy that I had to courage to move out of my comfort zone and push myself because the outcome was beautiful! 

Come February ... Oiiii very intense month of growing and realizing that sometimes you just have to be your everything.  Life had me stressed and it was everything from social life to career and current research.  Everything got in the way but it was also the start of the Fringe and festival season.  I couldn't handle it but guess what ... I survived hahah.  The Fringe for those of you who saw me post about it but had no idea what it was ... it's a music and arts festival here in Adelaide that goes on for a Month with shows on everyday.  These shows are about anything music, magic, acrobats, comedy, cabaret and dance.  February was when it actually hit how many relationships I had made in Adelaide that I would never give up.  The people that are there for you when times are rough are the people you want to surround yourself with and I guess I did some good searching when I came here because my friends were there.  I could rely on my friends here ... we've only known each other maybe four months but I felt like I knew them for years --> beauty of connections and relationships.  So thank you to all my wonderful Adelaide friends ... you mean so much to me.  But this also made me realize that I have to cherish every connection and relationship I make here.  It's partly what I came here for ... meeting people and understanding Australia through their eyes.  Now i'm so keen to meet everyone and just get to know them.  There is so much that someone can bring to the table and you would of never guessed.  Just today I met an Eagles fan here in Adelaide ... um whatt?!? He's also never lived in the US haha.  You never know whats going to happen! 

March. Absolutely Brilliant.  I can't explain how up, down, upside down, left, right this month has been so far but it has been HEAPS of fun! More Fringe in March and by more I mean LOADS lol.  I was practically there every night and I loved it.  Futures? Yes ... that happened.  I want to relive it again.  Croquet Club? Yes... part of the fringe, by day it's a croquet club by night ... its dance your heart out! There was something to do every night and I let me just tell you ... I took all advantage of that.  

But March wasn't only about the festivals.  It was about moving forward with everything and trying to make progression in all areas of my life! I started boot camp this month ... oh yea getting my fitness on.  I tackled as much of my research as I could.  My frustrations with my research have yet to be expressed on here but the last three months have just been horrible when it comes to my research.  I haven't started my project and I agreed to do a side study which I honestly have nothing to do with ... so I've felt a lot like an outsider and used.  My project should of started by now and it is no where near testing ready.  I don't think it will be until I leave as of now but I honestly can't do anything.  I did everything on my part to getting it going .... it's in others hands.  :(.  I also have to present on my research in Rome and I don't really have much to say for it.  Just the same stuff I wrote in my proposal.  I am very disappointed but it's just how research works here.  It's way too slow and that's why the output and the Australian dominance in the research world is small.  Nothing is actually pushed along.  This is solely my opinion and no one else's! It's my take on the research here and my frustration might make it more biased than anticipated but I am seriously struggling with how slow my project is going.  It also makes me realize I don't want to go into research if it's anything like this :(.  So I will go to Rome and see that most of my peers have done heaps with their project and I am currently stuck in limbo ... at this point, I don't have the authority to make my project a priority (because I have no say) and the only thing I can do is go with the flow.  :\! I know how upsetting right? I definitely do miss the US in terms of the research ... it's just that much more developed there.  So don't take it for-granted (to everyone back home).

Besides all that March has been a beautiful month.  Jamie came last week and we had loads of fun and I finish off March by going to Rome.  I reckon my next post will be about the Fringe ... or Rome hahha.  I hope this update was good enough to fill you in my life.  I have huge career decisions which I might lay out in my blog sometime soon! I need help to figure out what to do.  Too many choices but nothing just sticks out... :\.  But until then ... think about this

"Not all those who wander are lost"

.... truth so when you get a chance, pack your bags and head out.  Meet locals and get to know other cultures, it'll teach a lot about yourself!