Bon'day one and all :)

I hope that this email finds you in good health. I am very well, enjoying life in Manly loads especially now that I am in living in the best hostel in the world!! I don't really miss my old place that much as it wasn't very sociable but now I have met loads of lovely people from all over the world and had lots of fun nights out. Pictures are on the web site.

BIG NEWS: I went surfing today for the first time, woo hoo. Took me a month but I eventually got out there and had so much fun even though I really couldn't stand up and paddling out was really hard especially as just as I decided to paddle out, 3 huge waves decided to head straight for me. I wish I'd just turned around and tried to surf them but didn't really think that would be a good idea on my first day. I have booked 3 lessons so far and will be going for my second tomorrow so more news to come hopefully on that front, plus some pics hopefully!

I am still working at Sailing Club. We had a very busy day on the 7th as it was the Melbourne Cup which is the equivalent of the Grand National here except that it's much bigger (the Australians love their gambling)! We ran a buffet for about 250 people and then watched the race at 3pm. I bet on an English horse but alas it didn't even complete the race, I never have much luck with gambling.

I finish work on the 23rd November and will be leaving Manly on the 27th, obviously after celebrating my birthday in style! I am going to stay on an Alpaca Farm from the 27th to the 1st and then I'll be off into the Blue Mountains for a few days where I will go and visit the famous sites as well as do some horse riding. I fly up to Brisbane on the 8th of December and will be meeting some friends of the family for Christmas. It will be very strange to spend Christmas away from home for the first time, however I am sure I will enjoy it.

I have been going to Karaoke on Wednesday's here - reminds me of the Belle Vue days - sang 'Mr Jones' last night with a friend from home that is here at the moment. It went really well even though I've been loosing my voice. We filled the dance floor, at some point I will try to get the guts to go up on my own..!

I will close here but I can't wait to read your replies and will, as always, endeavor to reply personally.

Take Care

Lots of Love Gaelle
xxxxxxxxxxxx