Okay, I admit it.  I pretty well abandoned this site for a while.  I wish I had a great excuse, but the truth is much more simple and not very interesting.  On one hand, I got involved with all the things to do here.  Trying to find a job, getting settled, unpacking, sorting out the cat...  It was a long list.  On the other hand, I was embarrassed having to put off China.  It's just not in the financial cards right now, and it took me a while to own up to that fact.  Having only very recently gotten out of debt, I'm not about to go jumping back in.  So that means doing things the hard way and saving up when I want something.  Being responsible isn't much fun sometimes. 

However, my ignoring tactics couldn't overcome the number of requests I've gotten from people asking where I went.  I'm truly flattered that people are still checking the site and wanting to know what's up with me.  So the least I can do is make an effort.  While I won't be able to tell you about China for a while, Australia is pretty interesting, and I'd be happy to share some of the goings on here.

On a very personal note: Thank you.  It can feel lonely on the other side of the globe from everyone I knew.  The messages from friends and people I've never even met make my day each time I get one.