January 7

January 7: Still really want to go to the beach. But seriously, how can my luggage be “lost”?? I gave it to them in Sydney. Where could it go? I’m getting on a bus and going to the airport myself. These phone conversations go NOWHERE.

Hello Boys. Where is the lost luggage room? No, I won’t do any paper work, I just want to know where it is. Can I take a look in there. YUP -- HOLY *#%^&!!!!!! THERE IS MY “LOST” LUGGAGE!!! That’s mine! I run up to hug it. They offer a tissue, with a snicker. It’s truly a sentimental moment. I love the contents of this suitcase! I can’t believe I found it.

Wow. Now that I have clothes. And I have an interview. And it is summer. And the travels are awaiting. And the eye candy helps. Why go home? What for? What’s so urgent? I think I’ll celebrate my luggage find with a new phone. That would make me a super permanent resident!

Back at the range, I work on my computer like usual, at an outdoor table. Everyone thinks I’m a journalist. Oh wait, I am. I meet my very first Mauritian! COOOOOL!!! And he runs into an old Nepali friend. COOOOL!

Tonight, I discover the Art Museum. Bar. I have also learned that I will soon be replacing “lots” with the word “heaps”. They use it heaps around here.

Lesson: Besides “heaps”. Apparently “Hotel” isn’t. “Hotel” means “bar”. Who knew? I thought we all spoke the same language?

Lesson: Australian Naval ships have a neon Kangaroo on the side. How cute! Is the Navy supposed to be cute?