Wanted

Just a sunset, a bunch of lambs and the last photo of the aforementioned "Mr. Tickles"

Mr Tickles

Today I caught a spider. It is as big as a mouse. We named it Mr Tickles.

International Relations

After many hours and many raised voices, the game that shall not be named is known by two Italians and two Germans.

Experience

"How much backhoe experience do you have?"

"Very little"

"Ok, go take that backhoe. Load those bales, then clean out that irrigation ditch."

"10-4"

More pictures

Sheep and spiders.

Taboo and definitions

June 6

As I alluded to earlier, everyone here wants to learn English. I am constantly bombarded with questions pertaining to the English language. It is incredible, rewarding and fun. It is also a challenge because I must force myself to use the proper pronunciation and grammar whenever I speak. The two Frenchmen in an effort to better understand this bastard tongue, invented or stole the game called "Taboo". The basic premise is that one person explains a word without using certain phrases or words. The Frenchmen decided to up the ante and include movements but limits are placed on the number of words allowed. Basically, we play charades/taboo and hilarity ensues. We also create our own words which forces me to be the resident editor of all spelling. A role I am ill equipped for.

Well dear reader, there really isn't much more to share. I have settled into a routine here. There are two utes waiting my for loving touch and one troopie. The troopie is a Sunday project and I have been informed that if I get it running and I clean it out I can call it my own. Tomorrow it will get a visit from Mr. Pressure Washer and Mrs Spider Poison.

I suppose I should explain some of those terms. The Aussie vernacular is easy enough to comprehend but it is as endless as any regional dialect. Moving on.

Ute = small 1/4 ton sized truck,  usually powered by a 4 cylinder diesel, always horribly overloaded. For example, the ute I just finished repairing and currently operate has a 600L fuel tank, a 15 gal air compressor, a generator, a tool box and I have been informed that a chemical tote (1000L) fits in the remaining space.

Troopie = any Land Rover or Toyota SUV with enough capacity to carry 7 people. Usually reserved for older models. The quintessential outback mobile.

On the piss = drunk

Goon = cheap wine

Winter = a mythical season

Muster = gather or meeting

Football = Rugby, either kind, or soccer, or Australian rules football, or American football. They make no distinction and thus confuses me.

Bog = slough or to get stuck

"Too easy" = a response, usually given after a set of instructions are recieved, intended to convey that you understand.

"Piece of piss" = another type of response, usually given to indicate that the job will be easy.

There are always more so I will keep you posted. I will also bid you goodnight because the sunrise will be here soon and I quite enjoy them down here.

Until next time, take it easy.

Mission Accomplished

Whenever I am riding a quad and I see an antelope I always try to catch them and slap them on the rump. To date, the antelope has always eluded me.

Today I was riding on a quad, clearing scrub brush out of an orange grove. Kangaroos are not as elusive or as quick as antelope.