My three room tent-estate was transformed into one room tent when I left 50% of the tent poles in Sydney. My Canberra tent boasted a peculiar resemblance to a famous Sydney Opera House. I believe my subconscious left tent poles behind to both pay homage to the Jørn Utzon performing arts center as well as to live a bit more minimally. Loneliness might have been hard to ward off in a three room tent-estate.
The first exciting landmark of my journey south of Sydney brought me to the famous Big Merino in the south of New South Wales. We chomped on some meat pies and took in the grandeur of this sculpture. I was also able to snap a photo of a magpie. Magpies abound on this continent. Here’s one checking the petrol prices. These witty flying creatures are the only non-mammal that can recognize itself in a mirror-test!!!
After a long drive south, we arrived in beautiful Canberra in Australia’s Capital Territory. So began the National Women’s Baseball Tournament. I had a great time watching the National Tournament and speaking with umpires, players, coaches. Women’s Baseball throughout Australia is currently brainstorming ways to guarantee a prosperous future. They face challenges as MLB funds and organizes some of the continent’s Men’s Baseball but does not offer the Women any support.
After months as a scout, educational coordinator, and spectator, my time in Canberra further festered my fire to hit the field. On Saturday, I started on the 4th grade Geelong Baycats team at shortstop. The one ball that was hit to me went straight through my legs. We lost the game 5-20, and despite my detest for losing, I had a great time. There’s room for physical improvement. I hit 0-1 with a BB and a run. 
For my time in Geelong, I am staying with the Fraim family. Jarrod is pictured below. He’s the first baseman for the 1st grade Baycats team. The Fraim family are fantastic hosts. Jarrod’s wife Corinne is an amazing cook, great gardener, and has been nothing but welcoming. And, Jarrod and Corinne have two sweet kids: Ruby and Ashton with whom I’ve been playing some Wii baseball and bowling. We’ve also been going to the pool and soaking up the end of their summer holiday. My photos of my lovely hosts to come!
Reconciling with the Diamond (A Girl's Best Friend) 