Australia day :-)

So.. The 26th of January happens to be a pretty important day on two different continents for 3 reasons: 1. NRM day (when the leading party in Uganda took over governance)

            2. My dear friend J.A.K's  birthday. (Happy Birthday by the way :-) )

            3. Australia day (commemorates the arrival of the first British fleet in Sydney)

Yes, it is a bit strange that they do not have an 'Independence day' like we do and one could thus argue that 'independence' is over-rated. The Queen of England is technically considered to be the head of state though she has a representative here.

Australia day is such a big deal- there were even fireworks on Melbourne! A lot of people feel very patriotic wearing the colours of the flag and partying. I really appreciate the fact that since the day fell on a weekend, Monday is automatically given as a public holiday nationwide! Everybody is clearly in high spirits about having an extended weekend. In the spirit of partying, we(the husband and I) were invited for a barbecue breakfast which was loads of fun. Lots of flags, food, great company and I even got someone to sing me the national anthem :-) 

There are a couple of things that are considered 'Australian'. For example, saying Australia without pronouncing the 'l' (try it!), Billy tea and Pavlova. Pavlova is a really yummy dessert that has a meringue(pronounced 'merang' please!) base. I decided that in honour of Australia day, I had to take up the challenge. The recipe includes eggs, sugar, cornflour, vinegar and lots of fruit. The outcome was not perfect but there were no left overs so I think that is a good sign. I took a picture for the visa office- maybe it will convince them that I belong here.

P.S The next time I am in Uganda, I really need to get a flag! Maybe I can host a party here on Independence day. I wonder what food I would serve people?