Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Thank you and Day One Australia

Thank you to all the Dragonhearters who gave us the incredible send off. We didn't leave with dry eyes, but had big smiles all across the country. It was so special. Something we will never forget.

Day One
We are here in Caloundra. All 28 of us arrived safely and on time with all bags. It was one of the longest trips for many of us- 14 hours from LA.
Livona and Trish received special treatment and where wisked through customs in the priority line. However the fruit sniffing dog took a liking to Livona and her knapsack was thoroughly searched. Ask Trish about the search of her bag. Ann-Marie had the honor of pushing Livona's wheelchair through the airport and her steering was comparable to that of her dragon boat racing steering skills- a few of you may recall the zig zag nature of the path. The others waiting in long lines at customs, but everyone was tired and still smiling when they arrived in Aussie and stayed awake the next 12 hours exploring Caloundra where the regatta will take place. Discovering Caloundra was the priortity for most including searching for the best ice cream in town and discovering where to eat-first things first.

Our jackets brought interest and conversaton through out our travels. We never lost sight of anyone.

The 13 hour plane ride is like child birth- during it - it is painful but once it is over you have the ultimate prize- Australia is our prize.

Day 2
Beaches, bike rides, shopping, walks, surfing lessons for Laura and Glenna, body surfing for Karen and Peter, Marianne and John. Excitement is building all around the town of Caloundra. Everywhere we go people are talking about the pink parade and dragonboat regatta. Of course we are asked we are from and we answer Vermont. There response is where!- is that near New York?

Pot Luck dinner hosted by Trish, Livona and Louise- what a hoot. Much conversation and dancing, congo dancing, duo perfomances with thanks to the wonderful CD provided by the McSweeney family. Who knew Jim could shimmy and shake- Oh! baby!

Somehow Jane made a prize winning apple pie from scratch, which was gobbles in short order. Home made special raviolli by Jeanne and company.

Another busy day with an early bed time and good night sleep. Off to the Hinterland tomorrow.

6 Comments:

Paige said...

Dear Team Aussie,
How wonderful to hear from you! You are our pride and joy! Keep those bleary-eyed blogs coming when you can. Any photos? :)
XOX Paige

September 25, 2007 7:06 PM  
mhayes_jes said...

So happy to see your blog. I've been looking every day. Keep on enjoying and I'll be looking forward to enjoying with you.
Hi Jane
Marilyn

September 25, 2007 9:23 PM  
nesh said...

Thinking of you all and what adventures you might be getting up to daily! Who's keeping Gisela in line? That's what I want to know! HEE HEE! Paddles UP!! hugs to all - liisa :)

September 25, 2007 11:23 PM  
Linda said...

82 degrees on 80's day for Spirit Week at Spaulding--just invited a gang of seniors with black wigs and Kiss white-painted faces into the library during TA. The giant boombox was on a student's shoulder and blaring "Eye of the Tiger." But I'm guessing this was all tame in comparision to "Aussie Fever!" Virtual hugs to everyone!

Linda
PS. Tell Jim that Grandma says the Yankees are still in it!

September 26, 2007 1:46 PM  
Marianne said...

Hi Everyone! Sure is great to keep in touch with you this way! Our paths must have crossed in the sky as I was headed home from the Grand Canyon as you were heading out. Steve and I are talking about you every day and can't wait to hear more. We'll need a digital slide show when you return. Livona, bring em across that finish line! Way to go Ladies! Love, Steve and Marianne

September 26, 2007 6:50 PM  
Karen B said...

Sounds like you are all having a fantastic time.
We are so proud of all of you.
Pies, dinners...you're getting very comfortable. Remember, we want all of you back.

Cherish every moment.

Karen B

p.s. sorry Linda, Sox are still up by 3 games...I'm sure I'll eat my word later, but let me enjoy the moment!

September 26, 2007 8:09 PM  

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