Started the drive towards Melbourne. I wasn't in any hurry, so stopped at Mad Dog Winery - I just saw the sign on the road. It was very small, run my a husband and wife team. They had four big dogs who just wanted to play with anyone. They both seemed very surprised to have an American at their winery. It was definitely very friendly and the wines interesting and good if not great. I ended up buying a bottle of their Pinot and a wine glass.
When I got into Melbourne I drove around until I got into he downtown area - and found a parking space. The city is actually very easy to drive in, except for the trolleys. Called Sarah and then wandered around downtown Melbourne. It is so reminiscent of Portland that at least once I thought that's where I was. It might be just relative (I.E. Melbourne is to Sydney like Portland is to Seattle), but I think it's more than that - the river, the look / feel / style, and even the people. I browsed a couple camera shops (I need to sell my old lens) and some bookstores, then jumped on the internet for a half hour to update my journal.
Found my way to Sarah and John's house. Hung out and talked with Sarah (met in New Orleans May '97). When they got home, I got introduced to John and his friend Justin. The guys made a beer run for tonight's party (I got Matilda Bay Bitter, Coopers Dark Ale, and Abbottsford Invalid Stout).
While we were hanging out waiting for the party to start, Karen (Met in Petra, Jordan April '98 - and hung out with in London a few times) called. I'd sent her email a yesterday, and it turns out that her, Jodie, and Meredith (all from Jordan) are in Melbourne at the moment so we're going to try to meet up tomorrow! The party was really nice, lots of interesting people and great food. Late in the night the margaritas came out - I am proud to say not my idea, but that's what's going to doom me tomorrow!
