Melburnian Observation #1

Funny how in the midst of my frantic attempts to complete a research paper (which I actually am enjoying somewhat with the process) I’m allowing a leeway for myself to blog. Nothing much of actual interest really, except that I felt the need to jot this down after having a sudden realisation after I had finished purchasing two 2.4L bottles of juice (a $6 for 2 promotion) at Woolworths QV. It was the realisation that parts of me are slowly assimilating itself with Melbourne—I am no longer in complete awe and wonder at the self-checkout system that certain supermarkets (like Woolworths at QV) use that completely rely on the honesty of its customers (although during busy hours there would be a staff keeping an eye), as does the system of tram that relies on the same aforementioned value of its passengers; I no longer am caught off guard when the person manning a counter of some sort greeted me with “Hi, how are you today?”; I am finally wearing only two layers of clothes in winter (a tee with a really warm waterproof jacket on top); I am no longer surprised at the intense melting pot of significantly different people from all parts of the world gathered here; I am easing myself into the crevices of space in the often-packed City Circle tram; I love the feeling of sheathing myself with water that is not too hot yet not too cold (I don’t have hot shower back at home); I like how the arts are emphasised tremendously over here as evidenced by a multitude of arts-related festivals; and dare I say it, I’m actually in love with Melbourne.