12 April

Sometimes, to put things in perspective, people look backward. A year ago, five years ago, ten years ago. What was I doing then? How am I going now? Today’s date hit me like a ton of bricks while I was pumping over red wine at Mel’s winery today (WEEEEEEEE, Love it!). Today is April 12th.

On April 12th, 2006, I woke up, grumpy as all fuck because I had a physics exam that day. My normal routine included waking, rolling over, grabbing my computer, and checking my email. I decided to check my gmail that morning, something I rarely did. That week, I had been having horrible nightmares about these orange wallabies nipping at my feet because I had not heard whether or not I could go to Australia or not. I had job interviews line up for that weekend (Easter), and I was preparing for the worst. I opened my gmail and lo and behold, there was an email from Charles Sturt : Congratulations, Catrina, we’re pleased to offer you admission to the Bac Applied Sci Wine Science/Viticulture…I remember reading it twice then checking my pants to see if I’d wet myself. I did a little hop around my room, then went to pounce on Jen and whispered to her: “I’m going to Australia.” The occupants of Creekside 23 boozed in the greatest glory that night, consuming champagne and Australian wine (Pictured above). One of my favorite days ever. And, I flunked that physics test…who really gives a shit? ☺

And today. April 12, 2007. I woke up in David Wynn’s old place. Not kidding. I was staying with Mel on the property at Mountadam winery, because I’d been working there for the past few days. Mountadam is in the Eden Valley, basically a sub area of the greater Barossa Valley. I woke up early this morning, drank espresso, pumped over fermenting shiraz, cab sauv, merlot, etc. I even spilled about 20 litres of $80+/btl wine all over me. Yes, I now understand the concept of siphon expensively and intimately! I hurt all over, but I’ve had a fabulous three days. With all of the disappointment that came with CSU, I need reminders of why I am on this island, why I am here. A few days of a vintage work and I remember that the winery is home. Soaking wet floors, treacherous metal staircases, squeegees, smelly ferments, bentonite. I wouldn’t give it up for the world, even if it is a dirty job.

Gettysburg. Adelaide. Slightly different. Only one year! It’s all possible people!

The date on this entry will be off because it is April 12th now, but I have no internet! Yes, I am suffering as much as you.

Cheers

Down to The Wire

So, my visa came through last week. Today, I shipped my boxes to Mel filled with shoes (to the tune of $150!) and as far as I see it, I can't turn back now. Half of my most stylish shoes are well on their way to Australia, and I intend on retrieving them. In person.

So, I've got to get on that plane and go. I've also been assigned residence at Charles Sturt, which is a load off my ass. Now, I just need to pay for housing. My accommodation is all the way across campus from where I will be taking class. But, that's okay, more exercise for me!

So, on my flight from Rochester to NYC, (JetBlue Flight #27), I am with the Mitchell's! Alison's parents! Rock on, I love them. I am so super pumped. What luck! :-)

But, my nerves are shot. Scott told me just to "put some panties in a bag and go". If only it were that simple.

Beginning of my last week at Ferro tomorrow. Oh those boys...how I adore them and will miss them so.

Fox Run going away party Friday night at the Wagner. I think it may have started out as a secret, but the cat didn't stay in the bag for very long.

My cup really does runeth over. I get choked up when I think about leaving. This will be tough. Good thing email is cheap!

The above picture is of the occupants of Creekside 23 on the night I found out I got into Charles Sturt. April 12th, 2006. That night was interesting for more than one reason. Jennie is holding the bottle of champagne that caused the worst hangover of my life.

Cheers!