happy NYE

my blood is rushing to the extreme. I im soo stoked right now. The main reason is Sierra just arrived safe and sound (and on time)! Another reason is that today marks the completion of a pact. A goal set many many moons ago. My first part of this accomplishment was me coming out here to Australia. That was completed about four months ago. The second part of this was Sierra coming out here and us being here together. This part was completed about an hour ago. So not only is it the perfect way to start off the New Year, but its also the completion of our pact. We are here together now on this journey and its only just beginning. We have plans to be here in Melbourne till Rainbow Serpent at the end of January but after that we are gonna hit the road and experience all of it. Finch will be meeting up soon as well. We all want to get a car, most likely a van, and travel and live out of it. Im sure we will end up doing that, and i can't wait.

So Happy New Years to all. May this year fullfill all your deepest desires and give you what you truly need. Its up to you to create and make sure that happens. I am following my dreams and i urge all of you to do the same. This is a very exciting time to be alive and i have hope for the future, despite all the problems right now. Consciousness is spreading and we are only just tapping into the power of being human. I have never been so excited to start off a new year as i am now.

Much love to all of you.

danny "what you are is what you have been, what you will be is what you do now" lee

also of relevance

"whatever joy there is in this world
all comes from desiring others to be happy
And whatever suffering there is in this world
All comes from desiring myself to be happy"

Dec. 28th/29th

its late, im going to bed soon but first...

I feel the next chapter is starting soon. I am completely excited for it. Ive felt my blood rush more in the last few days than i have in a while, and its in part due to relationships and people: Sierra is coming in time for New Years, my German travel mates (most of them) just arrived today, i met some really awesome friends of Finch the other night, and i have been looking forward to January. New Years will be one for the record book, and there are many musical festivals to get excited about. When January is done, the traveling will start again and i can't wait. We will probably get a van and travel around and live out of it, true hippy style. That will make the experience so much more personal and fun. We shall see what happens...
Ben you need to get out here too. My thoughts are focused on it and I know yours are as well. There is a spot in that car that you need to fill, maybe even room for Bella!

Someone told me today that life is a process, and its this process that we need to enjoy no matter what the end result is. Live your process to the fullest.

One of the hardest parts to traveling is the hellos and goodbye's in a matter of hours. Often we meet, we connect, we enjoy, and we have to say goodbye. This happened to me tonight, just as it has happened many times before during my travels. People come and go, and some you may never see again. Some we wish we could. This is how it goes and of course i would have rather met them than not have at all. It just sucks when you do connect with someone and then have to say goodbye. Good to know that strong connections can be formed in a matter of hours. My point is that you should cherish those friends that are always around and the connections you keep.

sLEEzy "name a time and a place and ill be there i swear, im falling from the front to the back of your mind" D

Boxing Day AKA Dec. 26th

in the states we have something similar and its called Black Friday (not to be confused with the infamous black saturday right L-bean, Cory, and Burger?) Well its the biggest shopping day of the year here so of course i had to work all day. Yet again, writing is my release to help me unwind. So it was a crazy day but i am almost done with work. Working through the weekend then taking some time off for New Years and the arrival of sierra!!! Some incredible adventures lie just out of reach, but soon to be cherished.

So another exert from my journal... I am really interested in Quantum Physics and I was reading my book the other day and found a great scientific explanation for what me and a few friends refer to as "the human network."

In Secrets of Attraction, from A New Science of Life (1981) by Ruptert Sheldrake: Morphogenetic Fields-fields of energy and information that are fed by each individual within a species. Waves of thought and personal evergy are poured into a group consciousness, an energetic field that reaches through time and space. Through morphic resonance the field builds momentum and in turn affects teh development of the entire species. Specific knowledge and behavioral patterns and habits accumulate in the field. That accumulated consciousness expands, and when it achieves a critical magnitude it moves into the awareness of everyone in the species. Morphic Resonance examples: 15th and 16th Renaissance in art, science, religion, exploration. The Industrial Revolution. The Technological Age. The Digital Age.

What an explanation of the human network! The idea that every thought, action has an affect on yourself, others (even time, space, and those you don't know) and the universe.
So what do you guys think? I find this stuff very interesting cause i can feel it even though its not completely tangible, there hasn't been much research on it, and its def. not a mainstream belief. Very interesting...

Danny "the only thing that matters now, the only thing that matters now, the only thing that matters now is... this could be perfect" ca-Lee-for-nia

Merry Chirstmas!

Merry Christmas everyone. As i am writing this you are probably all soon to wake up and celebrate your Christmas and mine is coming to an end. I envy that fact, only cause i want to be there with everyone. I didn't have a bad Christmas but it wasn't the greatest either. It was great to sleep in today (finally) but i have been nursing a horrible hangover all day. It was one of those that never really went away. Never made it to the beach either, which i was really looking forward too. I ended up at a work mates house where we ate and celebrated all day. It was a beautiful day and i was able to spend it with the Irish, English, Israeli, Aussie, a Russian and of course my American self. I have never spent a Christmas with such a diverse group. I just wish i was with friends and family, i didn't even get to talk to you guys. So enjoy it and ill be there in spirit.

I was gone last year for Christmas (on the cruise ship in Hawaii) and that was really really hard on me. I guess i didn't learn my lesson, but at least this year was better. Traveling has really opened my eyes in that aspect. I will never take for granted anything like that in the future. When you don't have something you truly do understand just how much it means to you. New Years will be good though as opposed to working last year. This time I will be with best friends and having the time of my life. Can't wait!

So i have to work 8am to midnight again tomorrow and im not looking forward to it. Im thinking i won't be doing this job much longer. We shall see how it goes. Sales will probably die down and the job really wears me out.

Well enough ranting... everyone enjoy every moment of their holidays. I miss you all. Much love.

danny "trying to stay conscious of it all" cali

Officially the 24th now... crazy days

gotta do this quick...

So the last few days have been nucking futs. Been working for insane hours and making insane money for doing it. 80-90 hour work weeks should have left with the cruise ship... just finished a 15 hour shift and get to sleep for a few and do most of it again. The only reason im writing this is because writing is a release for me, an incredible form of relaxation. I get to get my thoughts out and quite my incessantly-active mind.

So yesterday i get off and come home. When i get off the train i see a bum dude with a wierd vibe passing me. I didn't think twice about it until i get an aspycsiation (??) attack. I turn around to see this guy on the ground surrounded by 4 cops. Apparently they had mased him or used tear gas or something and i got the side spray of it. It was pretty crazy. I have never experienced that stuff before.

Today i was getting on the train coming home, just a few minutes ago, and i see this guy and girl fighting/arguing. She was pulling his feet and he was holding on (mid air) desperately clinging to a seat handle on the train. She was yelling about how she was going to get him arrested for trying to set her on fire. She was bruised and so was he. Apparently she had hit him with a shovel and so he got revenge on her. He kept saying he thought they were better friends then that... it was pretty crazy. The train is an adventure let me tell you.
I hate seeing shit like that. It really affects me. I don't understand why people have so many problems and let thier life get to a point like that, especially with such a public display. I have been really stressed out at work and i was looking forward to a relaxing train ride home only to step into that situation. Maybe that is why i was so shocked. Can't people just get along???

Any gotta post.

Happy Holidays. Almost over here. Can't wait for a day off and sleep.

love you all

danny

Dec. 20th on the train ride home today...

i thought of something and had to write about it in my journal. This is a little extract from my writing...

I have about an hours firde home so i gest some good thinking done! I thought of phases or moments in our lives where we see someone (a stranger), we have no idea who they are, and we will never see them again. They are just ghosts of the day. We pass by them in our daily routine and don't think twice about it. They are human, they are important, but yet we may never see them again. What it would be like to meet them all! Even though that is obviously impossible, but imagine...
I dont' want to be a ghost to some and them a ghost to me. Maybe i should stop a few hostst and explain this. Would they think i was crazy??? (would you???) Probably...

Imagine how many people could be important, could be potential friends and lovers, people that could help you, or you help them. Too many of us (myself included) are too scared to approach random strangers and try to form relationships in a matter of seconds. What are restricted by fear from something. what if this wasnt' the case?? Sometimes i feel drawn to strangers, my intuition tells me they are important somehow, but yet i don't know how to bring this up to them. I shouldn't care if they think im crazy. I should just act on it.

Tomorrow one less person will be a ghost from a moment in my day.

danni "your best intention was my worst invention" cali-for-ni-a

Dec. 18th life in melb...and the fullfilling life-the blood rush

So finally settled in to life here... at least more so. Been staying in a backpacker (the Greenhouse) for a bit and i have been working for a week now. I don't do much else but work and relax, and i really enjoy it. Haven't been eating all that healthy but aside from my usual health freak diet and my gym-rat mentality i feel pretty healthy. I haven't been drinking/partying at all, i go to sleep at a decent hour, and i wake up soon after dawn. I travel about an hour to work (on the train) everyday and work for about 10 hours and then travel about an hour home. The time on the train is incredible. Getting to relax, read the paper, listen to music, or just stare out the window is pretty incredible. There is some really interesting graffitti to look at here, and i haven't figured out why there is so much of it. I think the city allows it to happen. Try to get some pics of it soon.

I work in a mall at a kiosk where i perform and sell a magic trick. Its a little toy called the Wurli Worm and its pretty simple to use. It has an invisible cord attatched to it and we can do a bunch of tricks with it. The kids love and they are selling like an addicts cocaine. I work really long hours but at least im making about a 1000 a week. Finally gonna pull myself out of debt a bit and hopefully be able to save some. Not sure how long this will last (if the money will be that good post Christmas) but i should be doing it for a bit.

Got a few music concerts to go to around here in January, but after that im not sure if i will be sticking around. Ive been yearning for the beach and some decent weather. Before i ever left for Australia i told myself i would live on the beach, and i really really wanna make that happen. Ive been pondering Surfers Paradise. My brotha-from-anotha-motha Sierra is moving here by New Years and we will stay through January and then decide what to do. Us combined with Finch will make an incredible trio and we shall see where the wind blows us, but im thinking it won't be in Melbourne anymore. We shall see, its just a hunch, but usually my hunches are incredible pulls of intuition telling me that something great is to come.

So all is well and im enjoying myself even though its fairly boring right now. I guess the other side of my libra balance needed to ground itself. Ive been traveling for a few months now and it feels good to just sit and veg out. That will soon be over with though and ill hit the ground running again, look out.

Miss you all back home. The holidays won't be the same. Its been two years since ive had the holidays at home and i really really wish i was there. At least this year ill be surrounded by some of my best. Much love.

danni "life is the best when lived high and alive" california

PS- I wrote about this in my journal the other day. See what you think... leave me a comment about it. Ever notice when your minutes seem like hours, your hours seem like days, your days seem like months, and your months seem like years??? How do you feel about it?
I know that when that happens i truly feel alive. If time passes by quickly and I don't feel my blood rush then personally i feel like it was a waste. I need to feel my blood pulse and rush to really feel alive. If time seems to go by slowly, and i was active, then i feel like it was an accomplish. No time and hence life, was wasted. I just hate when life passes by unnoticed. I need to be stimulated, aware, and able to feel and hear my blood and heartbeat. We can't just live to die, we have to be dying to live. My point is that life here in Australia has only been about 4 months now (3 1/2) and it seems like i have been here for a year or more. I have done so much since i have been here and time has slowed down. Im not exactly sure why, but i know that i like that feeling. Life is not passing me by and i am relishing in it. I wish i could bottle that up and keep it that way forever. Help me make that happen and we will be the richest people the world has ever known.

GO OUT AND LIVE IN THE MOMENT AND BE CONSCIOUSLY AWARE OF THAT MOMENT

Dec. 6 the story of a story that brought me to tears (this one is a bit long)

Been in Melbourne for a bit now.  The other day my friend Loni and i decided to experience a different part of the city.  We went to Fitzroy and he had heard of this accomodation place called "home" so we went there to check it out ( im still looking for a place).  It was here that i met a man named Hassan.

Ive have never met a man that has a story like his.  He has faced death, destruction, humility, and more, and he still has more sincerity, kindness, compassion, and hope than most individuals.  His demeanor and tranquility was enough to entice me to sit through his two hour story...

Hassan is now an Australian citizen, but grew up in Afghanistan.  He is the son of a warlord who was in charge of 4000 soldiers during the Russian war in Afghanistan.  His father went through a lot as well.  Through his days Hassan fought many wars and saw loved ones die.  He saw his best friends and blood get dismembered and blown to pieces.  He told a very shocking experience of how he picked up his best friends head without the body connected.  The look in his eyes moved me so deep that i felt his pain!  One day Hassan, among others, was captured ( i think by Saudi's) and held captive for 9 months.  They were in a pitchblack room for 9 months!  He said he forgot what the sun was like.  Later they were told that they could either fight with the enemy or die.  None of the 70 soldiers wanted to fight and kill their own flesh and blood so decided to die.  They were shackled and kicked to their knees and one by one shot in the head.  Hassan saw 65 countrymen before him go and soon was to be his turn.  For some reason one of the opposing guards had a moment of clarity and helped five of them escape (not sure how).  He said they walked for 8 days through the desert without food and very little water.  Nearing their end, they bumped into a sheppard who saved their lives.  Upon his return home, his father said to an enraged Hassan that instead of fighting and doing something stupid he should just escape.  His father gave Hassan 4000 dollars to "just leave.  To go somewhere that has no war and no fighting."  Hassan ended up in Pakistan and gave all his money to a man that put him and a few others, including his cousin, into a tiny boat with no life-vests.  They were sent out to sea and eventually ended up in Australia to say it short.

Upon his arrival to Australia he was not treated well.  He was treated like a "terrorist" a term that i feel is used far to freely in the last few years.  Well he was put in detainment for a bit and later on a probation period.  He was not allowed to leave the country and could not get in trouble.  He was being watched.  He fought for about 6 years to get his citizenship here in Australia and was still never allowed to leave the country.  All the while, even here in Australia, he has faced racism, hate crimes, and negativity because of who he is.  

Maybe one reason for this is because he is a very active person now and wants those out there to know the truth.  He is a spokesperson for human rights and at times probably did not care about how he was getting the information out there... Hassan's cousin is the same for example, and all over his body he has scars from deep cuts.  They were self inflicted, but done for media attention at certain rights movements.  They want to get the information out there about how corrupt government can be (Hassan experienced it first hand) and how we are fighting battles that should not be fought.  He said that the Afghanistan people do not want us there.  They want to deal with their own issues and want us to fix our own problems and leave them to fix theirs.  I was un-aware but apparently afghanistan has been fighting with different peoples (Russians) for the last 35 years and their country was in a state of chaos and shambles even before we arrived.  Any 35 year war would leave a country in shambles. He thinks we are fighting with a country that is not a threat and has nothing to offer us... another vietnam, another cold war.  

I agree that this war is fought based on motives that run deeper than the general public realizes.  Many are brainwashed by media and don't question anything.  Its more than just oil.  Its about money, power, and control to fuel the egos of the corrupt.   This is another topic and i should note that i support our troops, but not necessarily those that control our troops.

So back to Hassan... he was a self declared "truth seeker" and that is amazing because i have referred to myself as such and i have many friends who declare the same.  He just wants people to get along and progress as one humanity, not viewed as different races and colors, just people...brothers and sisters as he stated.  He had a great attitude and peace to himself that surprised me, given all that he has gone through.  He didn't seem to have any hatred toward anyone, he had a good attitude about it all, and just wants to be treated decent.  I could go on for hours as he did.  We shared many similar beliefs and his story moved me.  He actually brought tears to my eyes at the end when, with ecstasy woven into his words, said he recently (after 9 years) got the permission to leave the country and see his family (some of whom he has never seen).  His father passed away but he finally gets to see his mother and family who are still in Afghanistan.   It was a very compelling couple of hours to say the least.  I walked away feeling rejuvinated and uplifted from the emotion and exchange of deep conversation.

Hassan, from one american to one afghanistan, i wish you the best of luck.

may the future of humanity be as bright as your attitude

Dec. 1. Five days from 3 months here!

So i finally found some good free internet time...

Chillin in Melbourne right now as i have been here for the last week or so. Its been good let me tell ya. Lorraine and Angie came to visit for thanksgiving! Finch flew in from the west coast near Perth and my French buddy Arni came over from Sydney as well (we had to show him what thanksgiving was all about-he dug it). We all went to our American friend Kirstens house for dinner and had a great night. She cooked a huge meal and we got our drink on. It was incredible to spend it with Aussie's, Americans, and my French homeboy. We made the rounds and said what we were grateful for and almost all agreed that we were happy to share it with a mixed culture.

Spent the last few days in St. Kilda (south Melbourne) and i have been hunting for jobs rather hard. Got a few trial shifts and potential jobs. The one today went great and i have another one this weekend at a restaurant sitting on top of the beach. You could say that im pretty lucky i guess. Not so sure if i want to live in Kilda, even though its a great place, i just had my heart set elsewhere. We shall see what happens though...

So before i came here i was on my epic east coast journey. I touched on most of it in my last post, but i feel i have to write a little more on Fraser Island. This trip was in-fucking-credible. Having the chance to drive around on an island and do whatever we want (ie drink/party/cause ruckus) was so rejuvinating. We all let loose and made sure we wouldnt' forget the trip. This island had amazing sights as well. There was one lake that was surrounded by tea tree so that when you jumped into it you felt as if you just had a healthy skin dose of greatness. Some of the cleanest water in the world. Perched lakes are extremely rare and most of them are found in australia. Saw a bunch of wild dingo's... the second night there it was raining and we forgot to take in some food bins... the dingo's ate all of it. I won't soon forget this trip, i want to do it again before i leave Australia. After this trip we went back to Rainbow beach and stayed for a bit. This place is one of two gateways to get to the island and RB is just as fun. We had beach bonfires, amazing beach day trips, and great friends around. I won't soon forget some lovely people i met here.

So now im in Melbourne and i think ill like it. Melbourne and Sydney both remind me of San Francisco and Chicago in their own rights. SF and Chi-town are two of my favorite cities in the world so thats a great compliment. The cities here are clean, friendly, happy, and beautiful. Something about them that will make you fall in love- an ingredient that not all American cities have.

The three months i have spent here seem like so much longer. Its wierd, but time seems to move slower here. I can't put my finger on it, but i have talked to many others about this and they agree. Maybe its the "no worries" lifestyle, but whatever the reason i think i like it. I can't wait to get back home, and home seems like such a long time away, but i think i will enjoy the "slower time." You never know what you have until its gone, and if for no other reason, being here will make me appreciate home so much more.

I should probalby get to bed, so i guess thats it for now. I really do miss you all so much.

dani "when freedom is outlawed, only the outlaws are free" california

nov. 23

I only have 20 mins to talk about this trip so a lot will be left out but here goes...forgive the errors...

Left Ayr after 6 weeks of work. Headed down to Airlie Beach for the weekend. Couldn't book the Whitsunday tour until Wednesday so we enjoyed a few days loungin around. Airlie Beach is in the tip three of my Australia destinations so far. Small beach town where everyone goes to party and get away and see sights. Chilled at the lagoon during the day (not safe to swim in the ocean, even though the lagoon is right on the ocean) and went to party at night. Stayed at the YHA for a few days then moved to the cheaper and more lively, and world famous, Magnums party hostel. Left for Whitsundays.

We spent 3 days and two nights aboard a racing sailing ship. Cramped quarters but good times. It was one big party among the most beautiful sights. We helped sail the boat, we snorkeled (saw giants sea turtles, a zillion fish that i won't even get into...some bright ones, some big ones, some scary ones... manta rays, and a lot of dying coral sadly), we went to Whithaven Beach (one of the most beautiful beaches i have ever seen (swam with small sharks, Manta Rays, and even walked on the ocean!! -there was a place that was shallow and had the tide come in from each side for a long ways out into the water). Saw Hayman Island- the place i was originally going to work at. Its a beautiful getaway for famous people. Glad i didn't work there thats for sure though. Nothing around. Post some pics on Myspace or Facebook soon of this whole trip. Gotta move on.

Next we did Fraser Island. First though we took a bus immediately after we got back from Whitsundays. It was supposed to be a 12 hour ride and it turned into a 24 hour bus ride. A petrol car flipped and caused a major delay, sadly there were dead bodies-didn't see em though FYI. Got to Rainbow Beach (another of my fav. AU destinations). Stayed a night and then did Fraser Island. Its a three day two night self guided 4 wheel drive Safari on an island! That rocked. We were the party bus and the others knew it. Got in and drove around (no time ill have to talk more about this later). The first night i will never forget (thunderstorms in the distance, clear skies and a thousand stars (no exaggeration)above, a harvest moon, and a beach party that kicked ass). Saw a ship wreck took some pics). Slept on the beach-got attacked by the biggest flies i have ever seen-they bit and drew blood. Saw an amazing sunrise. Drove to a lake that has some of the cleanest water in the world-a rare perched lake. Swam and drank as i was swimming. It was so clear you could see 15 meters deep... amazing. Went to champagne pools and on hikes. Got sunburned. Made amazing friends. It rained the second night. Got soaked. It didn't matter cause we were soo stoked on life. Got stuck and had to push us out. Saw amazing beaches yet again. Saw blow sand alley. Ill post more details on this island later. Left the third day with little sleep and kept on partying.

Got back to Dingo's in Rainbow and kept the party going. Met amazing people here. I loved it. Stayed a few more nights and then had to leave to go to Melbourne where i now reside!! Im staying with a few ladies i met back in Byron and its cold as hell. Finch, Angie, Lorraine, and Arni are arriving in the next few days and im stoked and exhausted. Gotta catch up on sleep and earn some money now.

love you all. gotta post.

dani cali

nov. 20th

in Rainbow beach and i have not had access to the internet for some time. So much has happened. Im in one of the most beautiful places i have ever seen. Whithaven Beach on Whitsunday Islands is probably the single greatest beach i have ever seen... and thats saying something coming from a man who has been on little islands in the middle of the ocean where few people have ever stepped. Can't talk much now, but just want to let you all know that im doing good ($$$ is always an issue, but it always works out) and im starting my journey to Melbourne in a few days. Ill post more there and get some details of what i have been doing lately.

Stoked on Obama!! Stoked on Australia!! Stoked on friends coming to visit!! Stoked to be from California- you never know what you have until its gone right? Stoked to be alive!!

Until i see you again, i wish you stellar.

Dani California

Nov. 3 2008

I can't wait to leave Ayr. Finalized some plans yesterday and bought a bus ticket outta here! We (Alex, Arni, Dana, Anna, and I) are leaving on friday and heading to Airlie Beach for the weekend. After that its off to Whitsundays and then more stops down the coast. Ill be arriving in Melbourne by the 21st or so, if all goes according to plan and then on the 24th my good friend Angie will be arriving from the states to celebrate Thanksgiving with me!!! Im stoked beyond words. It will be good to have a fix of home, and at just the right time.

Its getting extremely hot up here, and its mad humid too. Ill be leaving in just the right time. Be glad to say goodbye to my superviser too, he is probably the most negative, upset person i have ever met. I guess i would be too if i did that job my whole life though. Just want to give you an impression of how happy i am to hit the road again.

Its probably getting cold and rainy wherever you are back in the states. Just wanna say that i can't really remember the last time i was in the rain. Last night i was trying to imagine a storm to help me sleep and i could barely remember what rain drops sounded like! Okay okay Im exaggerating but i actually miss the rain. At least enjoy it a little for me.

Starting the next adventure very soon, should have some good stories to come...

D "i hated walking in my own shoes until i met someone who had none"lee
Actually i love my shoes

October 27 or 27-10-08 as they write it here

so not much new is going on... still working on the farm clearing logs. Today i got to play fireman though, it was a change of pace. Dave (my boss and one of the richest men in Queensland from what i hear-he's a billionare-yeah and i work for him-yeah-yeah like you care) decided to burn another field (he has like 17000 acres) and so i got to go on top of the water truck and put out the fires when they went to far. It was hot and smoke enveloped me, but something i have never done before!- one reason im here right. At one point i thought i was going to melt or spontaneously combust it was so hot, and i have some burns, but it was fun. The fire ended up getting out of control though and we had to return to where we started it and try to tame it. So whatever that was today.

I should be here about two more weeks and then im off. I was going to leave this friday, but i feel like i haven't saved enough money to get me to Melbourne comfortably. My new group of buddies (Arni-who is henri shrago #2 and Alex) are probably leaving this friday as well, but we plan on meeting later. We were going to do the same plans on the way down, but now i will probably have to meet up. We all feel like we have to leave ASAP, but my $$ situation is worse and so ill have to stay just one more week. Gonna do Whitsundays, Fraser, Noosa, and maybe a stop in Brisbane and Byron again, but not sure. As long as im in Melbourne by Thanksgiving ill be fine.

One of my favorite songs so fitting right now...

A revolution has begun today for me inside
The ultimate defense is to pretend
Revolve around yourself just like an ordinary man
The only other option is to forget

Does it feel like we've never been alive?
Does it seem like it's only just begun?

To find yourself just look inside the wreckage of your past
To lose it all you have to do is lie
The policy is set and we are never turning back
It's time for execution; time to execute
Time for execution; time to execute!

Does it feel like we've never been alive?
Does it seem like it's only just begun?
Does it feel like we've never been alive inside?
Does it seem it's only just begun?
It's only just begun

The evolution is coming!
A revolution has begun!
(It has begun!)
The evolution is coming!
A revolution has, yeah!

The evolution is coming!
A revolution has begun!
(It has begun!)
The evolution is coming!
A revolution has, yeah!
Revolution...

R-Evolve
by 30 Seconds to Mars

a related excerpt from my journal...
Its so easy to lose focus of goals and feelings. I have to sit back and consciously think, visualize, and remind myself of my direction and progress. with our busy lives its critical to meditate for this reason. Also why i enjoy the rare boredom i experience as it helps me to sit and think about my path and purpose and what i should be improving. being in Australia has been excellent but also its tough to stay focused because there is so much going on and im worrying about things $$ and survival. Things have fallen into place though and when i hit the road ill get inspired again. Also being here i have to remind myself of where i was before i left for here. Remind myself why i came and what my intentions are for being here. Remind myself of past memories and experiences that made me more aware.

One book i am currently reading is titled The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying and its great for learning about meditation. We all need to utilize the power of meditation, in whatever way you feel it. I know i don't meditate enough.

D "Man is made by his beliefs. As he believes, so he is" lee

october 17th

Not much new going on since the last post. Still working in Ayr and yearning for the day i get to hit the road again.

A lot of people have been saying how they respect what i have been doing for myself and that they wish they could be doing the same. A lot of people want to do things and follow their dreams, but never really do. At a young age i learned that no matter what, i can never regret my decisions. I have to give it my all and once a decision is made i have to follow through 120 percent (thanks uncle ken). I remember thinking this back in 6th grade though, and really that has been the foundation for who i am becoming today. Part of it is genetics (i come from a family of hard workers), part of it is my up-bringing (my family, especially my mom to thank for that), and part of it is my libra character. I have been known to be one of the most indecisive (typical libra) people around and its because i weigh all the positives and negatives about the situation. Sometimes this can be a detriment, but in the end i want to know that im making the right decision. Im lucky to say that i have few regrets. I should note that at times i have been known to go where the wind blows as well. At times i can be very spontaneous and just jump before looking. Wonder where i get that character from??? Its a good balance (libra again) and i would have it no other way, just wish i could tip the scale when i see fit.

Well one of the points i wanted to make is to tell everyone to follow your dreams. I probably say this more than anyone you know (my tatt, my quotes, my writing, etc.) but its so true that you can and should. Every new moment is a new chance. The younger we are the more chances we have before we get settled and have other responsibilities, but no matter how old or young you are you always have opportunities. Just be aware and jump on them the second they become present. Don't make excuses, make action. Running out of time so ill end with some good quotes, but first... thank you to all who say that they respect my decision to follow my dreams. It makes it all worth it.

There are many men who draw circles around themselves. there are those men who include brothers, sisters, mothers, and wives, in these circles. But some men draw circles around themselves that include many many more people. What kind of man am I????
I know many people destined for great things, and i feel they are partly responsible for helping me to realize i should follow my dreams.

The soul of the world is nourished by peoples happiness. And also by unhappiness, envy, and jealousy. To realize ones destiny is a person's only real obligation. All things are one. And when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.
Its so true. My conscious and subconscious effort have brought me to travel and follow my dreams.

It's the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting

Danny "realizing your personal calling is like getting up to see the sun rise while the rest of the world is still asleep" lee

october 10th

still in Ayr and have been working for about 6 days now, today was a day off and i needed it. I've been doing very physical farm work in blistering heat. Started with some pumpkins and then picked some corn stalks (it was easy but long and hot and i was hungover from my bday), now im clearing a field. We pick up sticks and logs in a huge area. An old tundra was burnt down and is going to be turned into a farm and that is where we come in. I wake at 430 am, drive an hour, and then start work at 6. Its not too bad though. The pay is good and i get an incredible workout and a tan and get home by 3. We look like cavemen on our return though. We are covered in ash, soot, and dust. Ill only be doing this for two to three weeks though and then mangos start up. Undecided if im going to do that, but probably. So i should be here for about a month to six weeks longer, then its off for some fun... have a few things planned and i can't wait!

I saw my first kangaroo the other day during work, it was awesome. Ive seen some brown snakes (i think it might be the deadliest snake in the world) and some nasty looking spiders too. Every chance i can i take a look around and enjoy that im in the middle of nowhere in Queensland, on some random farm, working with people from all over the world. Its beautiful up here. I came here for an experience and that is just what i am getting. Ive met some incredible people and had great experiences with them.

Sadly i have to say "until next time" with my current group of friends. Krechelle is getting homesick, jah hasn't been as lucky as me in finding work, and kerri is gonna go with them and have some fun. I need to stay and make some $$$$, so tomorrow we part ways. Im hoping to meet up with kerri soon enough but plans are always changing so we shall see. Im sure i will see them when i head down south so it shouldn't be too long before we say hello again. Soon after i found out that they were leaving, i found out that my buddy Loni will be meeting up with me. It all works out. I love that. Its a cycle of hello and goodbye's in this traveling world i live in, but when you need something most its there. Always keep and open mind and consciously be aware of that next opportunity and when you need it most, the universe will be there for you.

My bday was good. Had a half day at work and then came home and swam and chilled by the pool all day. Night time came and we hit the hostel bar and was bday serenaded by my current group and some new german friends. Managed to wake up early the next day and work too, so all was good.

dan i am "there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so"

off to throw a few stubbies back and enjoy the moment. Every new moment is just that- a new moment. Enjoy them all.

Oct. 5- the Ayr stories

so i haven't wrote in a while cause i have been all over the place. Ive seen a side of Australia i never thought i would see (the crazy drunk white trash lesbian side). Since leaving Byron Bay (i miss that place so much) i have traveled hundreds of km's...

Left Brisbane (can't remember if i posted my adventures there, but i won't now) about 4 am and traveled on a train about an hour north to Caboulture. Met up with a random dude i found on gumtree under the rideshare. We traveled about 12 hours in the car north to Airlee Beach (where Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef are). He was an Aussie local and just wanted some company for the ride, didn't charge me for gas or anything! I was sketch at first, but it all worked out. He was cool. He got me drunk along the way and then dropped me off and i met up with my current group. We had a few drinks and then drove another hour north to Bowen. I think i spent about 13-14 hours traveling that day, it was rough.

Spent about a week in Bowen. Its a small town with nothing but a beautiful beach. We were camping in a caravan park and had a good time. Spent a lot of time in the spa and the pool and swimming in the ocean. No work around though we eventually decided to hit the road for Ayr... this is when it gets crazy.

Ayr is a small town as well. We heard that there was a lot of farming work here so that's why we came. We show up and realize its a small country town with nothing to do, but get drunk. That's what the local "dero's" do anyway. We go to some backpacker hostels and look for accomodation and work but didn't have much luck. While there though one of the ladies overhears our conversation and says we can crash at her house for a night or two. She even had some farmer friends who might have openings for us. After exhausting all our options we decide to go. She pounds her beers, calls her "roomate" and we are off. We show up to a huge but fairly empty house. She says we can crash in one of the rooms, but before we do she has to tell us some things: she has a crazy stepmom who is delirius and forgetful and might forget we are there, Her "roomate" is actually her girlfriend and rocks the mullet and has a blind eye that looks crazy, she has a killer ankle biter dog, and a million people coming through the house. These ladies are about 50 and love to party. They killed a bottle of rum and probably 20 beers while we were there, so we were a little sketch about staying there. The girls thought they just wanted us to stay so they could rob us or kill us. By the time the day is over we heard this ladies life story... from her daughters problems, to her problems and her adoption, to her having to leave the house, to her girlfriend being in jail for 6 years, etc. Im leaving all kinds of details out, but lets just say we didn't want to stay. It was a crazy adventure. We left and looked for other options but didn't find much and ended up back there. She was nice and just wanted someone to vent to and keep her company i concluded. So much more to say about that night, but its getting long. Believe me it was a crazy night.

the next morning we left and got lucky with accomodation and a job, after much looking. We are now staying at a place called the Delta and Jah and i are working on a pumpkin farm. We are probably only working here for a few more days cause the work is almost done. We leave at 6 am to get there by 7 and work at least 8 hours. It's probably the hardest job i have ever done. Pumpkins suck balls. They are heavy, have a million vines with spikes (imagine fiberglass stuck all over your arms and legs with an itch that eventually turns to a burn), cause blisters, and the heat is unbelievable. All we do is cut, lift, throw, step, cut, sweat, lift, and throw all day. Im sore in places i didn't know had muscle. The first day is always the worst too. We are getting paid about 200 hundred bucks a day, on a good day though.

Probably leaving here in a few days and heading up to Tully to find some banana farms (the snakes and spiders there are the worst threats).

Running out of time, gonna get cut off.

Things are really well overall though. Im having fun and the people im with are awesome. Try to write more soon.

D "are we living just to die, or just dying to live"lee
chase your dream

sept 23- East of Everything

im exhausted today. Yesterday was fun but long. Went in to the filming studio at about 1 and didn't finish until midnight. Basically all we did was dance and walk around in the background for 10 hours. Me and some friends are gonna be extras in the second season of East of Everything, which is an ABC drama here in Australia. It will air next June, and i start in episode 9. The show is supposed to be based on Byron Bay (the most easterly point of Australia) and filming takes place outside of town. I guess the story is about a backpacker hostel (the set replicates The Arts Factory where im staying). We filmed the episode where josh (craig stott) goes to a party and gets hit on by a few cute girls (one of which i am currently talking to and traveling up north with) because they found out he had luekemia and is a virgin. Josh's grandpa told these girls this in the hopes that he could get his g-son laid before he went into a critical condition! I couldn't believe they are putting this on tv when they told us this. We were the surfers/partiers in the background, but who knows how much we will actually be seen??? Probably very little.
I had a shirtless scene(!!!-that'll be in there im sure) where i was walking back from the beach with a buddy, we finished playing volleyball. The director must have not liked us/loves to joke around cause he kept trying to tell us to be gay surfers in this scene (Elle Pappus...more on her in a bit) was struggling with a surf board as we walked by (strapping young lads like us would not stop and help her... cause we were gay as the director said). In a later scene i was supposed to be chasing a girl around during a party, but because i was gay i was supposed to "frolick and skip after her"...??? I assume he was an Australian director cause most Australians love to fuck with people, especially us newly arrived Americans. They have pretty good sense of humors here. It was kinda odd, but a great time and experience. That among many many other scenes and repeated out-takes of those scenes were filmed. We got paid very very well, ate like kings, and got to act like we were partying and dancing all day. It was a great time. On top of that i got to meet some popular(apparently) Australian actors. Can't remember names except for Elle Pappus, and Craig Stott. Also met the main character from the show (an ass... Tom Long???) and some guest actors who were Australian and really into American guys. Elle Pappus being one of them. She was my first experience with an actress hitting on me. Good times. I get to go back in tomorrow and the cast director offered to have me come back in next week as well, but i am planning on leaving tomorrow after i get off. Don't wanna leave but i think i have to. The extra work isn't consistent enough and i have to make some serious $$$ soon. Overall it was a great time though and i met a lot of cool people. Keep your eyes out for this show next June!
So im leaving for Brisbane tomorrow after work and i might be up there for a few days before heading more north (up to Arlee Beach to meet up with friends and work). Im feeling much better now, thank god. I was sick for almost a week straight with horrible stomach pains. Things are amazingly excellent if that works. Hope you all are enjoying life as much as i am!! Live it up cause "are you living just to die, or just dying to live???" I know my answer.
Try to update more soon.

D"when i walk through the forest with my space suit on the trees listen to me" lee

Sept. 21

so not much new to add, but this might be my last update for a bit. Ill be leaving soon and not sure when ill find the internet again...
Have my tv gig tomorrow and then on tues. ill be leaving, most likely. I have my bus pass to use, but i also found a ride with a friend. She was heading up to Brisbane next weekend and decided that i have to go with her instead of taking the bus. I might convince her to leave on tuesday. We met recently and clicked instantly. She is another Aussie from Melbourne (everyone ive met from there is awesome). Long story about this girl... she's awesome (told she had three weeks to live and fought through it). I know we will be friends for a long time. Yet again im probably gonna have to part ways (made so many connections at The Arts Factory, i don't want to leave).

Been kinda sick lately. Have the stomach flu and i think i got it from the kitchen at the hostel. Many of us got sick with the same symptoms, its a gut wrenching pain in the stomach. Think im getting better, even though i haven't slept well the last few nights.

Went to the beach all day yesterday. Got a decent tan (sunbake) going. Got stuck in a riptide when i was boogey boarding. That was fun.

Finch is heading to Melbourne on Tues. we part ways for now.
Things are well. Miss you all back in the states.


D "when we truely have someone else's interest in mind, instead of our own, no one can get hurt"lee

sept. 19

so just a quick update. Im am gonna be staying in Byron Bay until at least the 23rd. Im having a good time and i don't want to leave just yet. My bus pass expires that night at midnight as well, so im just gonna chill and see if i can nab one of these jobs. Lookin into a few more today as well.

Also looked into a place today. It was a shared bedroom in a house just outside of town. The tenants are from all over the world, i haven't met them all. The French girly was drop dead gorgeous though, so that's always a plus. The guy who owned it was kinda wierd, i think he smoked himself stupid.

Met some more Americans last night (from: seattle, chicago!, girly from Mass., girly from New Jersey). It was seattle's 21st and we had a crazy night. Imagine us "yanks" and a bunch of German girls who barely speak english. Partied deep into the morning (bars dont close here until people stop drinking, no matter the time!) The yanks had to leave though, too bad. Americans are such an instant connection around here.

The reason im staying until tuesday is because today i got a gig on monday. Im gonna be an extra in a reality tv show here. I don't know all the details just yet, but i do know i have to go in on monday and shoot a few different scenes. They want me to play a surfer type, i will probably be seen playing the guitar in the background or something like that. Me and a few others from my hostel are going. They came in and picked who they wanted for certain parts. Should make some decent $$$ for a days work and i get fed. Can't wait should be fun! Thanks to all who keep sending me good vibes, know that you are having a part in my well being here.

yankee doodle danny "everything we own owns a piece of us, the less we own the free-er we are!"

Sept. 18-some may think im crazy for this one

So i have to say that this place is starting to feel like a home. I have only been here for about 8 days, but i feel like i have a comfort zone now. I have met many incredible people and have made some headway in finding a job. The vibe i get is positive at least. It's starting to warm up (consistently) and the feel of summer is approaching. Just when this happens though, i might have to leave. We shall see what happens, but i do love this area and will be back as soon as possible.

Today i had a Reiki healing session from a lady named Denise. She comes to the hostel i am staying at gives classes and sessions. I had a short 30 min. session, but in that time period i felt a change through me. She used crystals (for conductivity), heat, sound, and meridians along my body. I went into a deep trance... at first my breathing was heavy, then it slowed to almost nothing. When she started with the sound healing (chimes placed along my meridians) i felt completely relaxed, almost like i was floating. I could no longer feel the table beneath my body. Somehow the heat from her body was intensified at this point, which was a very soothing feeling. After the session i felt like i was grogy and out of it-this is normal i guess. After waking up though i felt energized. I highly recommend everyone try Reiki. She was saying that i have a few blocked chakras and was pointing out reasons why they might be so. She mentioned things that i should work on and i agree with what she was saying. I want to look into this more in the future and take classes. It's such a powerful tool for our everyday lives. Check out Reiki!

In addition i have been reading an excellent book about our personal energy fields and how to control and project them. In conjunction with the atmosphere im in and the conversations with different people around my new home, i have a few things to say...
Human beings are such a powerful organism. We are soo complex and probably know very little about the deepest ways in which our bodies work and grow. Science is great, but there is so much we know very little about: the universe, the depths of the ocean, etc. I think we can put ourselves into that category of unknown as well. I wise man once said something to the effect of man spends most his energy trying to conquer other individuals, but imagine if man spent that energy trying to conquer himself, what the outcome would be! My point is that we need to spend more time listening to our bodies and progressing our mind. Little things such as smiling; releases endorphins and makes us happier. Paying attention to our diet and how it affects us (I wonder why cancer is so prevalent in our world). Intuition- its stronger then we think. Controling our thoughts and being aware- negative thoughts give way to negativity. What we think really does control our reality. If we think we fail then we do. If we think it's gonna be a bad day then it is. If we weave positivity into our core then that is what we attract and project. Think about it. Something so simple, yet i know very few who recognize or believe this.

On top of this, the human network... its real. There is this energy that envelopes the world. Everyone puts into and takes away from this. The more negativity that people project the more negative the world gets, and the more positive people are the more positive the world gets. Have you ever walked into a place where everyone is happy and projecting positivity?? how does it make you feel, no matter how you felt before you walked in?? This is the same on a much larger scale ( I feel this on a scale the size of my hostel right now. A lot of like minded people who are aware). Its the energy of the world. Imagine if we were all to increase our awareness of this and actually work on changing it, by keeping our negative emotions at bay. Its easier said than done, but change starts at an individual level. All it takes is conscious awareness. Test it out if you don't believe in it. Your mind creates your reality. Im finding more and more who are becoming aware of this, and this makes me excited for the future. They say we are coming into the age of awakening (the age of aquarius in astrology) and the mayan calendar ends in 2012. Maybe there is a conscious evolution at hand??? Maybe humans are evolving to the next level (even though it seems as though we are destroying ourselves)???? Look into how many books there are on these topics i just wrote above. How can it not be real if so many people are relating and experiencing this??? Anyway i know that we are the most advanced organisms on earth and we have a power greater than anything we previously knew. All is ask is that we be aware. Listen to your body and use it for all that it can do. If you put your mind to it you can manifest your deepest desires and make them a tangible reality.

D" love or not, our greatest responsibility in life is the energy we put into others and ourselves" lee

some ideas that flow through my head

L.O.V.E.- the 4 most powerful letters arranged together. LOVE might be the strongest word in the english language. It is the strongest 4 letter word i can think of. LOVE is accepting, embracing, and cherishing. HATE and KILL are also strong 4 letter words that are of opposite meaning. Those are negative, cold, and angry. Its easy to turn a shoulder and reject, which is what one does when effected by these emotions. To accept and be open to LOVE is much harder to do. This is why i think LOVE is a stronger word. So many people in this world HATE and KILL because its easier to do so. "Make love, not war" another powerful statement. Things would be so much better if people chose LOVE and worked a little harder at rejecting HATE. There is so much pain we don't even know about, what it would be like if we rejected HATE and accepted LOVE with open arms. Together we rise. Is there a more powerful word in language than LOVE?


Another topic...
so recently i have decided to do some things i have never done before (when do i not push myself??). These haven't been anything major, but i like the feeling i get and i highly recommend others do the same. Two new ideas...
one is my "pay it forward" mentality. Now i have never seen the movie, and only found out about it after i decided to do this. This movie is on the top of my list now. Pay it forward: Anyone i connect with or was positively effected by I have to give them a gift. It can be something as small as an anklet or it can be something that they may need. By doing this they will have a piece of me and will not forget me and it will make them feel good. In return they are supposed to continue to "pay it forward." It can be anything really. My most recent "pay it forward" i gave one of my cherished books away. I gave it to a friend that was continuing to travel and it was a book that i felt would help her on her journey. By doing this we are spreading good vibes and helping out people along the way. Imagine the possibilities of something so small!

Another idea along the same lines. The idea of a notebook of memories. We all meet so many people in our lives that sometimes we may forget a lot, or at least details. This happens especially when we travel. I bought a small notebook/journal today that i will carry on my person and have others sign and say whatever they want. Whether its a quote, a memory, an inspiration, contact info., whatever. I will carry a piece of them with me and have a book of memories and pictures.

I guess the point of these two ideas is to spread positive energy and carry a piece of those you connect with, with you. By giving and taking we are circulating energy and creating a world of joy. Its reciprocity at its greatest.

Sept. 16

So this place we call Byron Bay is amazing. I love it here. Woke up and chilled in the hot tub and pool. Said goodbye to friends and then went down to the beach for some exercise, reading, writing, thinking, and people watching. There are some beautiful beaches around for sure. Some of the local shops are interesting and fun, i like the energy of this area. Too bad i might have to leave for a bit...

I am seriously debating on going north to work. Like i said before, its really hard to find work here because its super saturated with people compared to jobs. I have an opportunity to go up near Brisbane and make some decent $$$$. One of my new friends left this morning and he is going up there. I would be there for about two months and i could save all that i make. I will know in the next few days if i am leaving. If i do go up there i am not sure how the internet situation would be, so it might be a bit before i leave an update...we shall see. Also if i do this sadly i will be parting ways with Finch, for now. He has been persuing other endeavors anyway, and my path seems to be leading me to work. It could be good for us though, in the long run we will double our contacts and experiences.

This brings me to another topic. The connections that i have made recently. I have met two different groups of people, both of which I have only known a couple days each. One group is originally from America and the other group is from Australia and South Africa. I became really good friends with them and looking back it seems like we have known each other for weeks. Maybe its because we are all travelers and on the same frequencies in our lives? Maybe its my mindset and being completely open about everything? Whatever it is, im so appreciative. I never thought i would connect on such a deep level, in such a short time, on numerous occasions. That being said, the downside is parting ways. My deepest connections so far have all continued their journies. We will meet again and for reasons i don't currently know, this is for the best. The backpacker lifestyle is amazing and yields so much. I have met people from all over the world and seen so many cultural dynamics, that the anthropologist in me is having a blast. I feel like i have learned so much about the world lately, things that i would not be experiencing back home. Reasons like these are why i am here.

Time to go make some food.

Danny "the only way to live your dreams is to wake up and be aware" lee

the start of the adventure

Said our "until next time's..." and boarded our flight in SF. 15 hours into the future and a major nap under my belt we arrived in Sydney. Spent a few days in a couple different hostels, but Wake Up! was by far the coolest one, we met a lot of interesting people there. Did the tourist thing for a few days and then decided we had to ditch the cold. I loved Sydney and plan on going back, but for now the sun is calling. Sydney reminds me of San Francisco in many ways, but it is much more massive. Very cool place Sydney is, but it was a melting pot, and we were striving for the true aussie experience.

Bought a bus pass and headed up the east coast to our destination... a little place called Byron Bay. Much warmer here and a cheaper stay as well. Staying at a place called The Arts Factory and its just what we need. We can camp and surround oursevles with like minded people who are interested in personal growth. They offer classes in Yoga, Reiki, massage, etc. and offer a lot of cool amenities. Plan on sticking around here for a bit, if i can find a job that is. Very hard to find work here cause its such a small town with a lot of people trying to stay here. Its a surfer's dream and has many beautiful beaches, people just kinda get stuck here.

So much more to say, but i gotta go. There's no possible way i can detail all of what i want to say. I hope all is well for everyone else. More to come soon...

Danny "the most important thing is not to find oneself, but to create oneself. Go create" lee