It’s hard to believe, it’s over a 100 days since I arrived. I’ve grown so much in the past three months—from gaining confidence in a new language to building friendships that now feel like home.

So, what’s been the highlight? While weekends with friends and the Euro trip were unforgettable (and definitely once-in-a-lifetime experience), I think the real highlight has been the experience itself. The moments when I stop and fully realise what I’m doing—living on the other side of the world, speaking a different language, surrounded by people who used to be strangers and now mean so much to me. It’s a strange, surreal feeling that only hits when I break free from routine and take it all in.

It makes me proud of myself.

Of course, homesickness shows up every now and then—like it would for anyone. But I’ve learned how important it is to keep perspective. A rough ten minutes doesn’t mean it was a bad day. There are 1,440 minutes in a day—plenty of time to shift your mindset or focus on something good.

And, as much as it pains me to admit it... I’ve realised just how much I appreciate Mum and Dad back home.

I genuinely think Euro Tour was the best 12 days of my life. I was surrounded by some of my favorite people, travelling through and exploring stunning new places. I have been overwhelmed by the history and architecture while travelling. Over the course of the trip, we visited France, Germany, Austria, and Italy. I've included a map showing the cities we stopped in and the route we followed.

There were 55 of us in total, combining students from three different French districts. I met so many amazing people and truly feel like I’ve made lifelong friends. One of my favorite stops was Innsbruck, Austria—a colorful city with incredible mountain views in every direction. I also loved Verona, Italy, with its classic Italian charm, beautiful architecture, and delicious food.

All of us were so grateful to have had this experience. It’s something I’ll never forget.
   

Au revoir  Lexi Forbes

 

 

 

Your correspondent missed last meeting and I have only received the tiniest of snippets of information from members about what went on.  All I can be sure of is that three people were in attendance.  I thank members who sent me these snaps.

 

 

 

Last week Dan from Lifeline spoke to us about Lifeline and the Push-Up Challenge.  As June approaches we are again looking to take part in the Push-Up Challenge. 

 

Should you take part?  Yes, you should.  Are you physically able to take part?  Yes, you absolutely are.  Last year James M., Nooka and your correspondent participated.  Your correspondent’s cardiovascular system these days is largely just spare parts from dead pigs, and Nooka spends most of his life horizontal.  Nooka also suffers from vertigo.  If we can do it, so can you.  The great thing about the Push-Up Challenge is that you don’t have to do push-ups; you can choose to do the option that best suits you.

 

Our plan is to raise money for Warrnambool Lifeline and improve our health a little in the process.  Hopefully you can join us.  This week Boré has some ideas on how you can participate. 

We thank Boré for another wonderful cartoon.

 

 

This week Chipilly it the track in Horsham in the Axis Employment handicap in Horsham.  Say what you like about the Axis powers, but they did provide employment for people in the 1940’s. 

 

The key to enjoying being a Chipilly supporter, as with being an Essendon fan, is to lower your expectations.  At her last outing, Chipilly came second last, and I was happy with that.  It beats being last. 

 

Nobody thought Chipilly was a chance in the race; not the punters, not the media tipsters, and certainly not the horse’s ownership group.  We were just hopeful that the horse could beat something home.  I passed a critical eye over the field and there appeared to be one or two real donkeys, so I gave Chipilly an even chance of not coming last.  The aptly named Vegas Destiny, for example, seemed to have as much chance of running well as a gambler winning in Las Vegas. 

 

Vegas Destiny missed the start by about five lengths and Chipilly settled into second last place with a good gap on ‘VD’.  Chipilly went eight wide around the bend, that's how confident was she of keeping VD at bay down the straight.  Chipilly pinned the ears back and charged down the home straight, not only proving too good for Vegas Destiny, but also sneaking past Artpark to claim an excellent third last place.  It was an unexpected bonus for connections who now eagerly await her next run.

 

More exciting updates as they come to hand.

 

Ten years ago, Lew was tormenting our inbound exchange student Cecilie.  Initially Lew forced her to try vegemite which, as all normal people do, she hated.  Lew then presented her with some vegemite chocolate, which is just really just torturing any chocolate lover.