Carpe Diem

“Seize the Day”

I’ve always considered myself an independent person. I have no problem doing things alone whether it be grocery shopping, working out, etc. Of course, I always the love company, but having to go somewhere alone has never stopped me from doing something. But throw me in a country across the world, in a huge city, where I don’t know a single person and that sense of independence vanished almost immediately.

The first couple days here, yes, I needed to unpack, plan some meals, and get organized but lately, those were all just excuses for me to not have to leave our apartment. To be honest with you, I was intimidated by this new place and new people, which was making me start to create my own personal prison. Yesterday, however, a friend said to me, “Carpe Diem.” Seize the Day. This small phrase changed my entire outlook and made me really think about how I’ve been spending my time. I’ve had a few people tell me that they are “living vicariously through me.” And what fun is that for you if I just sit inside all day?? I also realized that the sooner I familiarize myself with the city, the sooner it won’t seem as big and scary. The time that Mo and I are here is going to fly by and I would hate to look back and know I wasted the first few weeks, or month here.

So, with that said, today I went exploring! I set off with my backpack, map and magazine of Sydney, ready to break down these mental walls that I had started to build. I have to admit, I was feeling a little insecure at first, mostly about being painfully white (my skin was literally glowing), being by myself, and having that lost puppy look on my face. As I continued to walk, I began to feel more and more sure about myself and where I was going, to the point where I was able to just relax and enjoy the beautiful (93º!) day.

Hyde Park

NSW Art Museum

Sydney Skyline

At first I thought those pine needles under the tree were worms! Also the birds with the long beaks that look mean are surprisingly pretty friendly!

A view of the Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge

A shameless selfie and the glistening Harbor

I may not be a “city girl” yet (and I may never be!), but doing this was a hurdle I knew I had to conquer. Tomorrow’s hurdle: driving course. At least I’ve got plenty of practice walking on the left side of the sidewalk now… Hopefully that will help me transition to driving on the left side!