I had a nearly perfect weekend. I would like to say I was able to enjoy Friday more, but I suppose I had to be somewhat productive this weekend. I awoke at six in the morning and worked on an essay about the impact of immigration on modern Australian cuisine which was due at five for nearly eight hours straight. Admittedly, this long essay writing session could have been avoided if it were not for my absolute mastery of the art of procrastination. However, the day ended on an undoubtedly positive note as I wound down with good alcohol and good friends.
Saturday called for an early start as well, for the night before we had agreed we should all have a cookout at Kawanas beach. As soon as we arrived I laid out my towel and began another long day of lounging in the sun. I gave into some positive peer pressure from my friends and, despite an overall lethargy brought on by the dry Australian heat, braved the cold ocean.
Not only was the ocean cold, but the waves were fierce. It was not a day for those who enjoy wading in the water and occasionally enjoy a crisp cool wave tumble over their head. If anyone planned on enjoying the ocean that day they needed to enjoy the excitement of facing the powerful and relentless waves crashing over them. They would have to be having their wits about them and be prepared for some spills. I was not ready for all of that. I admit I felt a temporary rush of adrenaline, but the call of my towel under the hot sun was to alluring.
As for the cookout, I could not have asked for anything more. Once we were all sufficiently exhausted and relatively dry, we made our way to the grocery store and picked up lunch. We then walked back to the beach and made use of the public grills. We feasted on sausage, chicken, and kangaroo. I was primarily in charge of grilling the kangaroo. I like to think I am proficient at the when it comes to grilling, but even I found cooking kangaroo to be a bit of a challenge. There is a very small window of opportunity for perfection. While it was not my best work, I am happy to say it was still quite delicious and no one should be suffering from mad kangaroo disease.
It was exactly what a cookout is meant to be. We were surrounded by good friends and good food. We all found relief from the sun under the shade of a pavilion, while still enjoying the fresh air and the sounds of the waves crashing on the shore. When it was time to catch the bus home, I feel we were all very content with our time spent at the beach and were looking forward to reconvening later that night to celebrate Halloween.
The only thing that signified Saturday night was different than any other night of drinking was the costumes. I must say, the effort and creativity put into costumes was quite impressive. However, when all was said and done, I feel we all just wanted to enjoy another night of drinking with good friends.
For me the true celebration was Sunday night. This was truly Halloween night and I figured it needed to be celebrated properly. I was perfectly content spending my night watching horror movies and eating loads of candy. I enjoyed sampling many of the tasty treats Australia has to offer. As much as I am looking forward to returning to friends and family at the end of the month I will truly miss Cherry Ripes and Aero Bars.
Monday was reserved for rest and recovery after a very long and enjoyable weekend. I have made a promise to myself to make the absolute most of my time left in Australia. And I feel that this weekend kept in line with this promise.
