What am I in for?

Sometimes an experience exceeds your expectations. I have a feeling Christmas day on Bondi is going to be one of those experiences.

I'm told Bondi Christmas is the quintessential Sydney experience. Its sunny. Its hot. Everyone's wearing a bikini. And a Santa hat. Everyone.

I've been adopted by a bunch of expats and we're going to spend what's affectionately known as an "orphan Christmas" in Bondi. What should I expect?

Christmas Carols on the beach?
Gingerbread house sand castles?
Eggnog beer?

Who knows. Expectations are of no use in this country. Sydney has surprised me from the start.

Before arriving in Sydney I'd planned to pass the time by making a quilt (book purchased, pattern selected, advice sought).

Denyse Schmidt Quilts

This one's called the single girl quilt pattern.

My plan - to immediately buy a sewing machine upon arrival in Sydney. Besides, I didn't know anyone yet (and I certainly couldn't carry it on the plane). What else was I supposed to do while I waited for my furniture?

Needless to say the sewing machine was never purchased. Friends were made. Good times were had. Expectations were exceeded. And work sucked up the rest of my time like a good ol' Dyson vacuum.

Why should a Bondi Christmas be any different? I'll make sure to take my trusty camera to document the day for all of you.

In case you're wondering, Santa did not grant my wish (must have been all the profanity) so I'll be without furniture until 12/31. Oh well, at least I now have a fridge. And I'll have everything before 2010. Barely!

If you love me and you're free to Skype on Christmas day (USA Chrissy day), let me know. I want to see all your lovely faces (virtually & free of charge). If we don't get a chance to Skype, have a warm & wonderful holiday.

Love,
Steph

But don't you worry, fellow crafters: I will make that quilt. It makes my heart sing. Its actually singing right now :)