Have to be quick!

I am sitting in a net cafe at a backpackers in Sydney I have 7 minutes left, or thereabouts! Had a great few days with S, even if she was really sick and we were to and fro to the hospital. My 2 nights in the hotel were nice, but lonely. I suppose loneliness is something I will get used to as I go from being in a couple to being a single. First night I walked down to Darling Harbour, around Cockle Warf to King St Pier (??? or something!). Had a nice enough meal, but should have taken a book. Didn't feel confident enough to go to a pub/bar by myself. Although when I got back to the hotel went to their bar for a beer but everyone else was in groups so I drank it quickly and headed for my room.

Yesterday I walked and walked! over 17,000 steps or over 11km. I grabbed donuts and a coffee from Krispy Creme (so lucky they aren't at home!) then headed out to Bondi to go to Myer to change the jacket I bought on Friday at the city store that was the only one they had and was too large. It was really interesting chatting to some of the staff- we have it good at home! Then after returning and dumping my bag (i also picked up a pair of shorts for $4 for Miss I!) I walked down to the Rocks, then around Circular Quay, past the Opera House, through the Botanic Gardens where I saw my first live Autumn Leaves in around 5 years and the gorgeous rose garden and herb garden. Then through to the Gallery where I actually forked out money to see the Archibald winning entries. I need to get someone to paint the kids, but don't think I could afford it really! Then to their cafe for lunch- wrap filled with tabouli (sp?) and falafel (sp?!). Then through to St Mary's Cathedral. First time I had stepped inside a church in over 17 months and the roof didn't fall in! After that walked back into town and went through the QVB. It would be nice to have money at times, but still I suppose window shopping has its merits!

Back to the hotel, put feet up, rang L to arrange accomodation for tonight and Monday. Can't wait to see her and meet J. Then walked back down to the rocks (in a very round about way!) looking for dinner. Neil Perry's Rockpool would have been nice, except for the $150 price tag for the set menu. Settled on a very busy Italian place and had the most divine bowl of pasta (spagetti con vongole). Walked back to the room and watched the second last episodes of The West Wing.

(oh and I have extended my time here!)

Have decided next time...

1) Will use my free night at a motel maybe, but then I will stay at backpackers. That may help alleviate loneliness.

2) I will invest in a 'Sydney (or wherever!) on a budget' book and use it instead of walking all over town looking for somewhere with pasta less than $25/bowl! (Last night was $16 for those interested! LOL!)

3) will get some decent walkign shoes! My feet are pretty tired!)

This morning I actually went to Mass at St Mary's cathedral. I cried through a lot of it. I think setting foot inside a church was a big step and I don't know if/when I will be back. Yesterday was also 17 years since my dad died. Plus I have the tears of the broken marriage and having to go home and sort W out and probably set him up in his own place. Plus the emotional energy that is going to go with lawyers/kids/family/outlaws etc etc etc.

I am heading back towards Darling Harbour- I want to look in the window of the Lindt Chocolate Cafe and may even head to the Casino for a look- but definitely not a gamble!

Am heading out to L's this evening which I am looking forward to. Am going to have to come to Sydney again sometime soon, but perhaps Melbourne first!