Thanksgiving

This year Nick and I were able to celebrate Thanksgiving with our Gladstone friends.  26 people in total gathered at a friend’s cattle ranch set on 9500 acres of land...9500 acres!  It was a beautiful property, my favorite part being the 100 year old Queenslander the couple lives in.  We are so grateful to our Australian host for allowing 24 crazy American’s, talking nonsense about pilgrims and Indians, into their home (this holiday must seem a little bizarre if you did not grow up celebrating it). 

 

It was fun to share with our hosts our typical Thanksgiving traditions including expressing what we are thankful for.  Nick and I both expressed how thankful we are to have supportive families as well as new friends in Gladstone that can provide comfort while we are so far away from home.  Oh, and also for the Purdue victory against IU.  Boiler Up!

The meal was very traditional with turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, biscuits and every kind of pie you can think of.  Because of the wonderful food, surroundings and company I’m sure it will be a Thanksgiving we will never forget.

Nick got very creative with his pie making...notice the Purdue "P" and the Mayflower Compact, haha.

Getting out there was half the fun

Christmas and Birthdays

This past weekend was Nick’s company Christmas party.  A little early, I know, but at a perfect time as Nick and I are already in the Christmas spirit!  Here are some pictures from the night.

We also celebrated our birthdays recently.  We really appreciate all of the cards, packages, emails and messages we received throughout the week.  Hearing from our loved ones makes us feel as if we aren’t really half way around the world.  And thank you also to everyone that contributed to Nick's birthday book!  I tucked it in his backpack for him to find as a surprise on his ferry ride to work and he said he couldn't stop smiling reading everyone's stories.  It is something special he can have forever and read whenever he may feel a little homesick, so thanks again!

"Notes for Nick", a huge success!

For my birthday I requested Sunshine Kebabs, a somewhat fast food but delicious chain here in town.  Nick, on his birthday, requested a bike ride.  I suppose these very different ways of celebrating prove that Nick and I are perfect for each other because in life you need both food and exercise.  However I envy the fact that Nick enjoys exercise more than a good kebab!  How could that be? 

Happy Veterans Day!  Australians celebrate their veterans on the 11th as well.  Here is a memorial in downtown Gladstone.

Nick's birthday bike ride downtown

BBQing like true Aussies