The Graduates

As we acquaint ourselves to Australian culture, we note our graduation to “Level 2” in the “Vegemite User” category--defined upon completion of the first container and returning to purchase the next-size-up. Step into our kitchen at breky time, and be sure to note the layer of vegemite spread on toast and sandwiches. Get this, the dark yeasty tasting spread was discovered in 1923, during the War, when the supply of yeast extracts to the country halted. This brilliant man, mixed a few ingredients, held a contest to assist in naming the stuff, and the winning entry, “Vegemite”, was drawn out of a hat!

We promise not to make visitors taste it, but if you dare, be ready, you’ll be toting many containers back to the US on the plane!

We continue to explore the national parks that expand the coastline. A couple of weekends ago, we used our camping gear for the first time! Our tent (thank you Jay and Alyssa) came in handy! Despite Logan’s pleading to sleep under the stars, sans tent, I denied. Sometimes, you just have to say “NO” to Logan! EVER so thankful my conscience kicked for THREE reasons: 1) wild kangaroos hop all around the camp ground 2) we awakened to SHREAKS in the middle of the night, coming from the across the way--apparently a rat intruded the couple’s tent and made itself comfortable inside! 3) during a restroom break in the middle of the night, we witnessed a possum crawling on this fence behind our tent. ENOUGH wildlife to put me SEALED in a tent with NO openings! I followed up with the couple in the morning and confirmed the rodential intruder was a rat! It was the girl’s first (and most likely last )time camping!

We have the footage - Logan actually patted a kangaroo. Wow, we are in AUSTRALIA, if anyone questioned!

The camping experience at Jervis Bay/ Booderee National Park proved brilliant as we saw more of the beautiful and versatile coast/ beaches/ forest and met some interesting people, including a professional 13-year old surfer from Brazil! Logan heard about the “pipe” which is an epoch place to surf, so surely we shall return!

We celebrated Logan’s 28^th birthday at Café Pacifico on Friday night, one of the only Mexican restaurants in the city (how can we blame them? Mexico is not exactly proximal to OZ!). We enjoyed the pumping Latin tunes, fajitas, and margaritas. (Not to worry DC, NOTHING in comparison to Lauriol Plaza!). The surprise party worked out, and Logan was in shock to see all of our friends awaiting his arrival, tucked in the corner!

We wish to award the FIRST (and ONLY thus far) of our friend(s) and family members to PURCHASE tickets to come visit the Williams (ah yes, it’s official) -- the PINTOS arrive in November!!!!!!!! I joked with Lauren that we almost feel sorry for AMO and Frank for having to deal with the energy that is BUILDING in me after not seeing friends or family for nearly a YEAR! Not sure the hugs will end during their trip here! AMO and Frank, WARNING, be ready for the embraces!

Loads and Heaps of Love and Blessings to all y’all!

Elizabeth and Logan

PS The Aussies LOVE the usage of “y’all”