Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Grant in Western Australia

Yes it is true. Grant Gillespie has entered the blog world. I have always had a strict rule of never entering into this this "rubbish" but I can't think of a better reason to enter this weird means of communication than the Western Australia Rotary trip.

First, it is very difficult to put into words the city of Perth that we are currenlty in right now. Simply put it is nothing like Columbia or Gilbert for those of you that were wondering. There is, no Lizard's Thicket, no 5-points, no Bud Light, and none of the other things that have been staples in my SC life. But lucky for me, we are in a place that has so many different and great things to offer. The city itself is the prettiest and most clean place I have ever seen. It is surrounded by a river that feeds into the Indian Ocean. It also does not hurt that Aussie's too enjoy a beer and a glass of wine every now and then.

I think most of us are finally recovering from the jet lag a bit and starting to settle in a bit more. This morning was our first presentation to a collection of Rotary clubs. Taking into consideration the power point went down in the middle of the presentation, I think it was fine. And for those of you that are wondering if I told a joke to kick my part off, that would be a yes. I firmly believe when unprepared and not real sure what you are going to say, the least you can do is tell a bad joke to kick it off.

As we settle in, one thing that we are learning is the people here are very friendly. And this includes the Western Australia Rotarians and hosts. They keep us very busy but allow us to experience things that under normal circumstances we would not be able to. Tomorrow a group of us is heading to Notre Dame University - a sister school for the Fighting Irish back in the states. Thursday we head to the Parliament House (same thing as SC's statehouse). For those of you at work I will be sure to advocate for lower taxes and school choices for all Aussie's.

But to all back home, I hope all is well. And look forward to giving you the 2nd edition in the near future.

G

8 comments:

Gina Gillespie said...

Glad to hear that you opened with a joke. I expect nothing less from you! Sounds like you are having a blast and definitely fitting right in since they enjoy an occasional drink also! Can't wait to hear what you do next. Love and miss ya!
Gina

Bernie said...

Grant, good luck with the lower taxes thing! Are you on a secret mission for our Governor?

It appears that they have you plugged into your vocation pretty quick. I would be interested to here you opine on the differences.

McCraw said...

I am glad to hear that you are actually doing some work over there. You know when Cochcroft went over there for Maymester @ PC he didn't do much. I am proud that you work just a bit harder than him! I am keeping up with you! Hope you have a great time! Drink a few for me.

cat and blake said...

Hey Grant! We are glad you are enjoying your trip. Lily misses her "uncle" Grant. Blogging is cool. We should do this more often. Cat and Blake

Lauren H. said...

g'day mate! Gina G sent me the link, sounds like an awesome time...I hope I get to see pictures!! Have a Foster's or whatever it is they drink there for me.

Jenny said...

Grant- All I want to know is.....do they have an Aussie shot cafe? If so, remember me! I am glad you are having a great time! If anyone can wing a presentation, you can! Enjoy yourself, but watch out for sting rays!
Jenny :)

Anonymous said...

Glad all is well. Sounds like yall are having lots of fun. Have you seen any Kangawoos? Everythings good around Five Points. I have been keeping an eye on it for you. Your car drives great, Jason has nicknamed it the exploder. Phone Home got something to tell you.

Stupid

Jeff said...

Grant - sounds like you are really taking care of the 'important' things while you are over there. Hope all is well and continue to have fun. Keep us updated on everything!