If I could return to Australia at  point in time. The environment is so much better, clean air, open spaces, fewer people and so it’s quieter but I don’t think that I belong here at the moment and not sure I ever did. I am stateless, well that’s how it feels. I have many good friends here and it’s been great catching up with everyone but after the excitement dies down and the novelty of being here wears off, then what will I do.

I’m here for 3 weeks and then I will return to China for the next 12 months and I am already missing some of my routines that I have and I have only been here a week. After breakfast I usually go to Central Park and exercise, in Ipswich they don’t seem to have any equipment in the parks to continue this. There are climbing frames for children but these are useless for what I wish to do. I miss the food in China, the food here in Australia is very good and the quality of the meat is second to none, but there feels like there is something missing.

So I have been asked the question, “What will I do when I return?” and the answer is I don’t know. I think I will get bored very quickly unless I can find something to keep my interest. Everything  here is relatively easy, no challenge unless of course you have to deal with bureaucracy, government or the phone companies………..all of which can give you a heart attack. In China every day is a challenge in some regard and I enjoy living the city lifestyle that I now have. I’ve also been able to spend time writing and reading, learning about Chinese culture which I do enjoy. Life is also very peaceful and relaxed and uncomplicated. Every day you can go out and find something of historical interest, but here in Australia there is no great significant cultural heritage. I do like Ipswich because it is the oldest town in Queensland and there are many buildings and structures from its industrial past which are great. The indigenous culture in Australia holds no interest to me whatsoever.

But I am here for another two weeks and yesterday I got a hire car and so I have my freedom of movement which is so important. The sun is shining and it’s not too hot and all is well………