Back in Cairns and back in the YHA, i waited for little Joey to arrive. She's been up here doing her own thing for a few weeks and we couldn't wait to meet up. Just like when i've had other visitors from home, i get really nervous and it's like an interview of first date - such anticipation! What shall i wear? I must paint my toenails. Well there she was, in front of me and we just jumped up and down and yelled at each other for a few minutes and got freaked ...

My grandma died this morning. My Oma. A strong ox of a woman was Nellie, stubborn and unwaivering in her views. She was a good Gran though, always took an interest in us and showed her love for us. And she used to let me smoke when i was a teenager! When we used to go out for coffee in Holland, we'd enjoy a cigarette together. And she loved her husband, my Opa, very much. Go to your Aadrian now. Goede nacht, Oma. And i got a great job today. Wel...

Footloose and carefree, what shall i do? The country is my oyster. It's a bewildering feeling. I walked straight into the YHA travel centre in Sydney and booked myself on a flight to Cairns. There must be something fun to do up there - it's bound to be a damn site more cheerful than grey Canberra. Plan-less and un-prioritised! This is what it's all about - whims! And going off on them! Throw caution to the wind and put yourself at the mercy of the Gods! Do wi...