Behind the desk at the xBase backpackers hostel is a extremely knowledgeable woman named Lydiane whom we refer to as the oracle. Every morning the team gets together to decide what we have to do that day, and what we want to do that day. The first part usually consists of errands and research, or time spent at a local Internet cafe. As for the latter, in a city in which no one is familiar, an oracle is an excellent source to have at your disposal. Yesterday, she directed us across the city to a birthday celebration for the Sydney Harbor Bridge. This bridge was turning 75, and tons of people came down to join in the festivities.
The TWBR team, a little weary from the St Patty Day outing the night before, made the trek across town to the Botanic Gardens before heading to the harbor side birthday party. Much to my dismay, the highlight of the garden adventure was these massive Orb spider nests in the trees. I am terrified of spiders. This fear has been the butt of many a joke between my friends back home and a certain member of the team, Bouey. I tried to join in the spider excitement, but every time I let myself relax a little, some one would grab me or poke me causing me to scream, my pulse to rise, and my anxiety level to sky rocket.
At least I got my first spider encounter out of the way in a semi controlled environment. Enough about spiders…
Next, we headed over to the birthday party. The Harbor was a sea of people in neon green baseball caps. These must have been handed out for free somewhere, but we never found that location. After loading up on beer and ice cream, we lost a few members of the team to the great St Patrick’s day hangover and jet lag. Chappy, Shoppman, Elena and I trekked on to find a large outdoor market amidst the festivities. Local artists displayed everything from jewelry to utensil themed wind chimes. We entered what can only be described as a birth canal, guiding us through the market, buying little treasures here and there.
Once the crowded market spit us out on the other side, we walked on. Leaving the party behind, we found a small cafe by the water, sat down on comfy couches and re-fueled on delicious coffee. We took this opportunity for new and old friends to catch up and swap funny stories. There was a very long walk to come before we reached the hostel, so we paid up and walked on. Weaving our way back along the river, we climbed up and down old hills and stairways. The coffee seemed only enough boost to keep our feet moving, and the chatter between the group faded as we made our way home. That was until Chappy decided that we should all shove ourselves into these small cubby holes for a photo opp… Good times!.jpg)
