T-2 days

So since it is just now Friday, I only have about 2+ days til I head down under.

I am very excited, and to be honest, quite nervous/anxious. Time seems to have slooowed down in these days leading up to Sunday. However, I had a lot going on today which helped out with that. Tomorrow is packing/riding/date with my girl, then the always awesome CSC pro cycling race on Saturday. Then whattya know, it will be time to head for Dulles...

However, I am a little bummed about a few things. Mainly because of the whole not having the internet unless I go to a wi-fi spot problem (no, not because I can't check facebook every 2 minutes, but because of my online summer class). Also, the fact that I really have no idea as to whether my "international" cell phone will work, or even if the plug outlet adapters that I bought will function. And come to find out, my flight to LAX has been late the past few days running. Pray that I make my connection to Syd! I am very grateful for the chance to go, of course, but tend to be a worry-wort. But heck, I shouldn't worry right? It's AUSTRALIA. I did happen to search and find four or so wi-fi spots around the hotel in Perth (Comfort Hotel), so that is some good news on that front.

Oh, and that whole packing thing. I really should get on about doing that! I do have a list and have bought all the little things I might use while I am away. I just need to first unpack from coming home from school and Texas...then throw all I need in the suitcase. I plan on taking only about a weeks worth of clothing in order to save space/weight and just wash clothes there in the hotel. They might charge up the a** to wash a load, but I would rather save more space for the koala and penguin that I am supposed to bring back...

On another note, I have been emailing a few bike shops down there to see if they could hook me up with a road bike to train on while I am in town. In case you didn't know, I am the President of the cycling team at VCU, and absolutely love to ride and race my bike. One shop has a possibility and a few others directed me to a place where you can rent a road bike. I might take advantage of that... (or, like I planned, use the time there to crosstrain and rest my legs) Either way, it was interesting to read their reply emails (calling me "mate" and saying "cheers"), with such kind words and willingness to help me out! I am so excited to meet the Australian people and find out in person how welcoming they really are. The guidebook that I have (see previous post) claims that the Australian's are the nicest people in the world, and I am looking forward to finding that out.


Here's a pic of downtown Perth with our hotel (near the long grassy park and water) in the background...