Season's Greetings

Mum's

Birthday
Zac & Fergus and my Christmasvillage

I intended to write up my blog on Christmas day, for some reason that didn't happen..

Christmas was suddenly happening, 3 days after my return from the cruise to New Zealand. Was a great holiday, thanks to all who followed my travel blog and sent comments. It was a great holiday - a taste of New Zealand and cruising what a great way to travel.

We had a lot to celebrate this past week, my lovely Mum turned 90, on Wednesday 22nd December - modest as always she didn't want a fuss, however she did tell a few people that it was a special birthday, but they didn't guess 90! Gail and I took her out for lunch, then later in the day we (the family - minus Darrin, Candice, Koby and Genevieve) met at Gails for champagne, nibbles, followed by cake and coffee. Mum is an inspiration, a quiet achiever, a helper to whoever needs help, a giver, and most of all she loves us all unconditionally.

I had Fergus on Thursday, what a great help he was with shopping and setting up my little Christmas village - (see pics), after lunch we both settled down and watched - the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe! Thursday evening I had pizza with James caught up on family news and holidays.

Then it was Christmas Eve and off to Shelley and Malcolm's for a lovely dinner - I stayed the night and loved being with Fergus and Zac in the morning as they opened their presents. I could hear Zac saying 'awesome' as he opened his sack from Santa, then it was onto the presents in the lounge! great fun and a little overwhelming. Malcolm cooked Shelley and I breakfast, some time playing outside with the boys and it was time to come home. A long walk and ham and salad with a friend ended the day on a great note.I managed to have a quick Skype call with Darrin although the reception wasn't the best, I can only imagine how many people were using Skype on Christmas Day.
Boxing day was a trish day at home, After chatting to my friend Jock in England and feeling quite warm in comparison - I did some chores, finished the unpacking and watched my new Leonard Cohen DVD (thank you Kris Kringle) - brilliant!

Today was another day, wet and cool in Melbourne and it was fun to catch up with Sally and Bob from Brisbane, visiting their family in Melbourne - too short a visit but we managed to catch up on all or most of the news.
I didn't send Christmas Cards this year - I ran out of time, but thank you all for your cards, texts, emails and facebook messages.

To my friends who aren't so well at the moment take care, sending good wishes to you and thinking of you.

Til next time....

Happy Holiday Candice and Koby!

Koby and Candice - ready to head off to the airport

Candice & Koby left Melbourne this afternoon for their much awaited holiday in South Africa with Candice's family. It's a long flight but I am sure Koby will travel well. I took him out for a walk this morning while Candice did last minute things and Darrin slept for a couple of hours after his night shift. I will miss them - I have been looking after Koby two days a week during November. Always so good unless he wakes up grumpy - who does that remind me of!!! Darrin follows in December when he starts his leave.

I am enjoying the bathroom, finally made up my mind about wall colour - Malcolm will probably paint it over the next week or so, when he has some time. It's a busy time of year and especially with small children. I have a gift voucher to spend on accessories for the bathroom - thank you Candice, Darrin and Koby - looking forward to using it very soon.

Not much else happened last week I did go out for dinner which was lovely - I didn't see Fergus and Zac. The weekend was busy. Was great catching up with the 'gang' for our Kris Kringle and Rose's Birthday on Friday night. We met at Beaches in Mornington had a lovely dinner a few drinks and some 'dancing'. I didn't have to drive as I stayed the night at Rose's house. Saturday night was Gail's friend Ian's 60th birthday - Sunday I spent most of the day doing chores, I cancelled my Young and Jackson date - was looking forward to seeing Jimi and the band but I had to get some things done around the house before my holiday.

The Christmas shopping is almost done - I may not get around to Christmas cards this year - so once the gifts are bought and wrapped this week then I can concentrate on my wardrobe for the cruise!! I love getting dressed up every evening - with two formal events and 11 smart casual nights that's a lot of mixing and matching!! Then there's the shoes, bags and jewellery - LOL lots of fun for Jill and I. i hope I can update my blog while I am away, I think my camera is ok...i spent a lot of time on Saturday afternoon reading the manual and also restored all the settings to the default setting, recharge the battery and it seems to be once again taking reasonable photographs

I have a busy week this week with shopping, catching up with Gail for dinner, also Shelley and Darrin on Wednesday evening. out with friends on Friday evening, babysitting on Sat night then concentrate on clothes on Sunday I have a hair appointment on Friday morning can't forget that.

Jill and I have booked our tours for each port in New Zealand - one of the highlights being a trip to Rotorua and a spa experience. We are going to Te Puia in the Whakawerawera Valley, a natural wonder and considered to be a sacred place by the Maori people. Then on to Polynesian Lake Spa retreat. Sounds wonderful!!

Sending lots of love to my dear friends who aren't feeling that great at the moment - think of you often x

That's about it for now - till next time

New bathroom and other stuff

The bathroom renovation went well and was completed in record time! Last Saturday (13th Nov) the bathroom was complete except for the shower screen which was installed on Tuesday. I love it. What a pleasure to soak in a brand new bathtub in a brand new bathroom. Malcolm will start the painting soon and that will complete the 'project'! i took some pics of the progress,unfortunately they didn't turn out too well, and I am only hoping that its my photography skills (lack of) and not my camera.
I will need that camera on 8th December when Jill and I set sail from Melbourne on the Dawn Princess bound for New Zealand. Exciting! The last few months have flown by. I have lots to do before walking up the gangplank, all the Christmas gifts and preparations organised before I go. A birthday present organised for my dear Mum who will be 90 the day after I get back from the cruise.
Candice and Koby set off on 29th November on their trip to South Africa. Johannesburg first for a wedding and then onto Capetown. Darrin heads off on 21st December. to join them in Capetown. i may not see Darrin before his holiday as I arrive back on the 21st. I will miss them, but it will be lovely for Candice's family. Koby will meet all the family and no doubt be thoroughly spoilt - easy to do - he is a darling. I look after Koby on a Wednesday and this month on a Thursday too. We have lots of fun together. This Thursday will be our last day together for a few weeks.
On Thursday evening I went to Gimmee that Guitar - a benefit for Harvey James and Peter Mac Cancer Centre What a great night!!!. I learnt a lot about Australian Rock music and the musicians. Harvey James played with Sherbet. The music was great wonderful talent on the stage with some amazing guitar playing from a courageous from Harvey James. Follow the comments and feedback on FACE BOOK.
Life presents all sorts of challenges - and to my friends who are not too well at present, or undergoing treatment - lots of love and good wishes. I think of you often.
I am looking after Fergus and Zac this evening, all is quiet, both went off to bed and were asleep in no time. Last Saturday evening I looked after Koby, while Darrin Candice, Shelley and Malcolm had a night out together!!
Well that's about for now so til next time .....

New bathroom - work has begun

Very exciting - yesterday work began on the new bathroom. The bathroom was gutted yesterday except for the bath which is cast iron. It was moved today with difficulty - and the new bath is being installed at the moment. I have picked out the tiles for floor and walls - nothing fancy plain white wall tiles and blacks floor tiles. I think I may have been lucky to get it done before I leave on 8th December. Most of it will be finished by Saturday and the shower screen will be installed last of all.
Not much More news for now - standby for the next installment...

Home Today - time flies

The time in Perth Has just flown by...It's so hot today, although i am looking forward to being home, the weather doesn't sound that great.

It's been a lovely lazy time in Perth and apart from the first day the weather has been great, perhaps even too hot at times.

Rottnest Island was great very relaxing with lots of little coves and bays for swimming and snorkeling. I didn't snorkel, the size of the stingray swimming around put me off!!! My intentions were good.

Lot's of ice creams and fish and chips this holiday, washed down with ice cold Corona's and/or red wine from Margaret River. Freemantle was very hot yesterday, there was a festive feel about the port with so many people dressed up for the CUP!

I didn't have a bet this year so no big win for me.

It's lovely to spend time with my 'old' friends - friends are special along with family and to my friends who are undergoing treatment, or about to start,or facing surgery i am sending lots of love and good thoughts. thinking of you.

I have missed the grandchildren this week, looking forward to seeing them all very soon!

Next week I am looking forward to bathroom renovations!!! a brand new bathroom!!! photos coming up on the blog...

Till next time...

On Perth Time

It's lovely to be in Perth enjoying the warmer weather...I am now staying with my friends after 3 nights with my travelling companions family. I am enjoying catching up on 12 years of news. last time I was in Perth was almost 12 years ago.
Tomorrow we are heading off to Rottnest island. probably Freemantle on Tuesday. Time flies by it's fun doing nothing much, sitting outside sipping on a cold Corona, enjoying Chocolate ice cream in a waffle cone, sipping on a Red wine from Margaret River. What a great weekend!!
Till next time

Holidays !!

Again, so long since I last blogged. Almost the end of the year and looking forward to holidays. The weather seems to be improving, could only improve after last weekend. I looked after Fergus and Zac while Shelley and Malcolm were celebrating Shelley's 40th birthday in Hobart - it was wet and cold. After a small hiccup when the front door key broke in the lock, the weekend went well. Both boys were good and little Zac slept well. I still smile to myself when I recall what was said at different times over the weekend... :)
On Thursday I am heading off to Perth, should be lovely and warm over there, looking forward to spending time Meriel and Mike Stander. We were friends in Zimbabwe and Meriel and I went to school together. It's been a few years since we caught up - so of you feel your ears burning at any time between 28th October and 3rd November.... :) I am flying over with a friend James who is visiting his family in Perth and we can do a couple of tourist things at the same time.
Just had a lovely weekend in Inverloch, very relaxing what I needed after a busy few weeks. Had beautiful dinner on Friday evening
Tomorrow I am looking after Koby, last Monday I went with Darrin for Koby's swimming lesson. It was fun to see him splashing around in the water - Koby didn't think it was much fun when Grandma was changing him!! He wanted his dad!
To my dear friends who are not so well and or recovering from surgery or other treatment, take care, sending you lots of love, think of you often and sending positive thoughts.
Looks like the bathroom renovation will be going ahead around the 8th November if i get all my shopping done before then. I will start on Wednesday shopping for the fittings, then get the tiles when I get back from Perth, if I don't manage to do that before.
I have been dancing a couple of times, catching up with friends, doing a bit of shopping and generally still enjoying retirement. particularly looking forward to the warmer weather
Til next time....

Where does the time go!

Wow so long since I last 'Blogged" 54 days or something like that. Time has flown since I got back from Mt Isa...Things happen some good, some not so good. To my dear friends who are not well at the moment, thinking of you, sending good thoughts for positive outcomes.
The weather is still cool here in Melbourne - was difficult to deal with when I got back from Queensland. I have kept up with the walking despite the cold drizzly conditions. Been fairly busy with one thing and another!! Babysitting - always good, catching up with family -always good, socialising with friends - my friends are the best! Planning trip to Perth - fun & more fun, New Zealand here I come - Jill & I looking forward to the cruise on 8th December. Enemies? - I guess I have one or maybe two after this week.!! if all this is a bit cryptic feel free to contact me for further details...
I ventured up to the city this last week to catch up with "my old library team" That was good but a lunch time is too short - I miss the social aspects of work and the shopping in Brunswick street.
What else have I been doing since I got back from Mt Isa - finally have quotes for the a new bathroom renovation so hopefully that will happen soon. After that I will look at my now smaller back garden - thanks to neighbour and VCAT - and hopefully improve the look!
Did I mention Grand Final? it's today....
Til next time

Last few days in Mt Isa

Almost the end of my stay in Mt Isa. The staff member going overseas because of family illness didn't seem to know when a visa would be forthcoming and I decided that i wanted a definite finish date. Now that the flight is organised, my colleague phoned a short while ago and asked if I could get the flight changed and stay on for another 2 weeks. I can' t change the flight now!!. Anyway it's time to go home and get on with a few things that have to be done at home. I am missing the Family and it seems so long since I spent time with the Fergus, Zac and Koby. My cat is with Shelley and she had a visit to the vet last week. So I am pleased I made the decision on Friday
I did the sleepover shift Wed, Thurs and Friday - Wed & Thursday were quiet, but Friday was busy and i didn't get much sleep. I didn't see or here the resident ghost Charlie!!! I had all weekend to catch up on my sleep. I have a good book, so the weekend has gone by quite quickly reading sleeping and eating!!. The weather has cooled down a little, dropped back down to 25 deg from last week at 32.

No more photos at the moment. I didn't have the other mine tour as I didn't get much sleep on Friday evening, probably just a quick trip to town tomorrow and then home on Tuesday. the next posting will be from chilly Melbourne, til then.......

Almost the weekend again!

It s a warm Thursday here in Mt Isa. 31 deg, compared to last week when it was 24. the the nights and early mornings are much warmer. some cloud around this afternoon, but I don't think it will rain! The week has just flown by. I was expecting to be home on Saturday, however I . may stay on for another week. I will know for sure tomorrow if I am needed for one more week due to unplanned staff leave (maybe) Last night and tonight I am doing the night duty sleepover in the main house where the office is. Just looking after the phone, emergency stuff and locking and opening the gate etc. I finish at 8 am. I do some chores before I leave and have time to read the paper, have coffee and enjoy the early morning. i was told yesterday before i started at 4 pm that there is a resident ghost,his name is charlie and he makes a few noises, turns on lights etc. I didn't see or hear him last night perhaps he wont make an appearance to a white fella!!!

If I am not staying on for another week then i will leave prob on Tuesday depending on flights. I will hopefully catch the other mine tour(above ground) on Sat. If leaving on Tuesday then I intend to take time off on Monday to visit the Flying Doctor Service and Schools on the Air.

It's been very quiet around here and I will have to buy another book if staying on for another week.

I don't have much more news so till next time......

Sunday in Mt Isa

Sat Morning in Mt Isa

Justbefore I went down the mine

Lazy day today - late start to the day I had a good book. The chores are done and it's computer time now, bill paying etc.... The sun isn't shining today, it's overcast an feels a bit cooler. I had a big day yesterday! I went into town in the morning and went to the Tourist Info centre. The above the mine tour was fully booked but I booked into the 1 pm underground tour.It didn't take me too long to walk around the town and do my shopping. I went to the Buffs Club right in town and had coffee and cake then headed over to the info centre to let them know I didn't have closed in shoes. I was told it wasn't a problem as I would get gumboots!

There were 19 of us and we got dressed up in our full gear with hard hats, lamps on the helmet, gumboots etc it was fun! Had photo taken too, I was the only single woman and there was one very young single man, Bill our miner guide insisted in being in our pics (just us two single people)??? He said to me where is your husband? I thought perhaps it was a pre-requisite for going down the mine. I told him I didn't have one. One of the men in the group (all grey nomads) asked if I was travelling alone. I told him I was alone, but not travelling by road - anyway it was a fun tour! very friendly group and two and half hours later i was back on the surface. learnt heaps, which is good for the brain..

The city centre was quiet at 3.45 - I did think about going back to the buffs club for a drink, but decided to go home.

There are no day trips to take which is a bit of a shame as it would have been great to get out in the bush. You can have a tour of the Flying Doctors Centre or Schools on the air, but only during the week which is not so easy for me.

Well that 's about it for now The photo of myself and miner Bill turned out OK. I have had to take a photo of it so that I could post it on here it's a bit blurred but you get the picture.

Till next time.......

Weekend coming up!!

Taken from my backyard!


I will try again with the photos, have only taken 4! Will take some more tomorrow when I head into town. I can hardly believe that its Friday already. The week has flown by. I haven't had much to do. The manager has been off on sick leave for a good part of the week, so at least I have been able to help with the phones etc. It's a great place to work, different, but great!!


Had a funny thing happen today, one of the women in the shelter came to the office to let us know there was a snake i her garden. Rajni who I am working with (has been in Australia a few months and is from India,) checked it out then phoned the Manager who told her to phone somewhere Rajni didn't quite catch who to phone so she phoned the police who said they didn't have anyone to send out. The manager arrived with her daughter and son in law and looked at the snake. The police phoned back to say they were sending someone out to catch it for us. I thanked them and next thing Sherree the managers daughter ran in laughing!! it was a toy snake one of the children had left it in the garden!!! Luckily we managed to stop the police from attending and we hung the snake on the handle of the cupboard. Doesn't sound so funny now.. I was quite excited about the snake, I though it would be something to write about and I often see snakes when I go places... I wanted to have a close look but Rajni didn't want me to go near it!!! LOL I wondered why it had stayed so long in the same place.





Tomorrow I am going to head into town, maybe have a coffee and some lunch... not much else to do. I did think about hiring a car but decided against it.


So not much news from me... The weather is great. I am making sure I get my Vit D intake everyday.


Til. next time......

All's well in Mt Isa!

I wish I could write about all the great places I have seen since i last wrote - but its quiet here in The Isa and my weekend was very quiet. i enjoyed the sun and blue skies, I lazed around,, took time to do some reading, scrap booking and my sudoku, and it's great having the computer.

Work has been very quiet, have been mostly looking after the phone as the Manager has been away. it was so hectic during NAIDOC week (which was the week before I got here) I think the staff needed time to recover. Tomorrow that may change when Marlene get back!

I am enjoying my time here, it's interesting and as always I am learning and experiencing.

So its a short posting this evening.. The photos are taken from my backyard. Can't believe the mine is right here!!

Til next time...
PS No photos..had problem uploading

Greetings from Mt Isa

I arrived safely in Mt Isa on Wednesday evening. Was a long day - Melbourne - Brisbane - Mt Isa. I think I am in the middle of nowhere!!! However the sun is shining, skies are blue and I woke up this morning feeling pretty good.
I can't tell you too much about Mt Isa as I haven't really seen much of it. I am working at a women's refuge and living there too. Just been to shops to get some groceries ands that's about it. Seemed busy in town yesterday afternoon. Seems many work places close early on a Friday and it may have been pay day.
If you don' know where MT Isa is it is near the Queensland/Northern territory border. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Isa,_Queensland - check it out.. I am very close to the mine, can see it from my backyard.
I am sharing the unit with another woman - she is easy going , so that's good!! Accommodation is quite comfortable, no lovely views as in Cairns, but I love seeing the blue sky each morning when I wake up even if it is quite cool. Reminds me of our days in Harare Zimbabwe withe the cool evenings and the lovely warm days. The Bougainvillea plants are magnificent brilliant colours.
No photos as yet.. but it's early days have only just unpacked and got settled.

Till next time....

It's Cold in Melbourne

I have been back for one whole week and it's cold!!! Started my walking again on Thursday, wasn't too bad at 7 am and once I started walking fast I did get warm.
Its great seeing all the family again - the boys are well. Zac & Shelley picked me up from the airport I saw Fergus on Monday, the first day of the school holidays. We headed up to the city to see the Victoria Orchestra at the Recital Centre - a beautiful new arts venue. The concert was wonderful for children. We peeked into the Art Gallery - that may be next holidays.
I collected Poppy my cat on Tuesday, Shelley looked after her, she had a good holiday!!
Seemed to be so much to do when I got home - i felt a little overwhelmed, but the cube shelves have been assembled and are looking good. The washing line has been removed - it was very offensive for my neighbour!! The trees have been cut back thanks to Malcolm. The new bedroom blind has been fitted, There was a hitch with the front awnings, but that should be finished soon - so a good outcome!!! thanks to friends and family for helping.
Not much news, I am babysitting at the moment, Koby is sound asleep so cute all tucked up in his cot.
Had a good night out last night, I hadn't been out for 5 weeks!! so it was great to catch up with friends and listen to theSubstitutes.. Was a good decision to go out rather than moping at home. It turned into a late night as Jill, Gail, Ian and myself went back to John's place for Karaoke!! yes well , Jill and I make a good duo!! Lots of fun...
that's about it for now.. so til next time

Last day in Cairns

It's my last day in Cairns. I finished work yesterday and tomorrow at 10.30 I head back to Melbourne and the cold! Yesterday I went walking as usual, when I got back to the hotel it was starting to rain. When I got up to my room on the 7th floor there was the most magnificent rainbow I have ever seen. i could not capture it with my camera. It was a perfect picture book rainbow, - I could have run to either end to find the pots of gold, so close to me. Seemed like a good 'sign'.

The two women i worked most closely with (the third my mentor had started her leave) took me out for breakfast. Was a lovely meal and I didn't eat for the rest of the day. In the evening I stopped on the way home to listen and watch some of the music at the Indigenous market on the esplanade. It was a beautiful balmy evening, yesterday was humid and this morning when woke up I couldn't see the hills as it was raining and the clouds very low. it's beginning to clear now. Not sure what I will do today, will no doubt walk along the esplanade as the markets are on today.

Work gave me a lovely gift 2 small paintings which will be perfect in my newly decorated and refurnished study.

Til next time....

Almost time to leave Cairns

1) this is where Iwalk in the mornings 2)taken form the reef terminal 3) a stop on the Skyrail

The last two weeks have gone by quickly. Work has been busy, but i got a lot done. The weather not quite so warm this week, bu not as cool as Melbourne and it will be cold for many months. I can understand why so many older people escape the cold and head north to Qld or even Darwin!! I have enjoyed my time here it's good to meet new people, make new friends and take a small step outside your comfort zone. I miss my friends and family and I am looking forward to getting home and catching up with everyone. I think the trip and work has been really beneficial to me and i will look for some meaningful volunteer work when I get home. It's just finding the time!! I fly home on Sunday and I suppose I will get back into the swing of things again. i am looking forward to putting my study into some sort of order again and then having my bathroom renovated - no doubt there at least 25 things to be done around the house and trying to adjust to a smaller backyard and a car space next to mine. Always changes no doubt I will deal with it all. A last few things to do in Cairns Friday evening and Saturday before I fly home

till next time...

The Best day! Awesome!!

1) Homeward Bound 2) Trish ready for the day 3) Upolo Cay

Today was a great day. Sailed at 8am for the Barrier Reef. I booked with Ocean Freedom and it was a great choice. We landed first near Upolo Cay on a near perfect day. It is a tiny little sand cay ( Sea Cucumber poo)I took the boat to the cay and then walked through the shallow water to deeper water (where reefs were) I practised my snorkeling so that I was prepared for the afternoon. I walked back to the cay and sat and stared out to sea. I saw several turtles and a shark. After a lovely lunch we set off again to 'Wonder Wall" on the outer Upolo reef. After a short trip in a glass bottom boat. I went snorkeling. it was amazing! The size of the coral and the colours of the fish.. it was great. Snorkeled as long as I could. I made the mistake of wearing a buoyancy vest and a wet suit. {I was a bit nervous} and I was buoyant!!! I kept on tipping over ..and found the flippers heavy going. But despite that it was great. The crew were a great bunch of young men and women. Going out of their way to make sure I had the best day.. It was very relaxing lazing around after the snorkeling enjoying an ice cold corona. On the way back the crew served us with huge platters of fresh fruit, cheese and biccys and cakes. They also took time to chat with us which made it so much more personal. A wonderful day. I saw nemo of course, and so many of his family members' Photos to follow when I get them developed.

Only downside was after I walked home I had agonizing pain around my ankle - over use of the muscles from the heavy flippers and not something I do regularly. Hot & cold treatment and nurofen and see how I go tomorrow!

Work was ok this week. I have been busy with the filing system, Enjoying the beautiful weather and my early morning walks.

Well my last week begins on Monday!!! What can I say back to the cold of Melbourne. I want to see the boys of course, I miss them heaps,, but that cold..

til next time

Back to work tomorrow!

1. The Pub with no beer. 2. Mareeba Welands. 3. The Chillagoe caves

I had a great day today. I went on a tour to Chillagoe Caves and Outback. The day started at 7 am when i got picked up and we headed off towards Kuranda to the Mareeba Wetlands where we had morning coffee. It was beautiful ! Lots of birds great for the serious or not so serious bird watcher. We left there and went on to the Chillagoe caves. It was quite a long drive. met up with the ranger about 12 midday We each got a torch which was great and even better they all worked and we had a backup light. I felt secure with the torch (miners lamp) slung round my shoulder.

The caves are beautiful, with stalactites and stalagmites and the limestone formations are quite spectacular. The spiders were huge! the cockroaches tiny! and the bats I didn't see close up. Luckily no pythons appeared.

We had a pub lunch in the town of Chillagoe, visited the old smelter works further down the road, then we visited the pub with no beer!!

On the way home we stopped at a coffee centre Skybury and in no time at all I was back at the hotel.

Saturday and Sunday were lovely lazy days, Sat I visited the markets as planned, enjoyed coffee and cake in the SUN and reads the newspapers. I walked in the evening, it was a lovely balmy evening. Sunday passed quickly I walked and shopped, sat by the pool for a while then did some scrapbooking. I am scrapping some photographs from Santorini. Its a very small album and I can see that it's going to take a while.

Work tomorrow, I will be on my own - lots to do before I finish up on 26th June

I am off to bed now - til next time...

Yippee it's Friday!

the night sky from my room Bye Pamela!! See you again

It seems a while since I was so excited about a Friday @ 5pm... and this is a long weekend which is great for me as i found a tour that I wanted to go on that only runs Mon's Wed"s and Friday's. so Monday I am off to Chillagoe Caves and outback. It will be a long day with pick up at 7 am and drop off at 6.30.

My volunteer Buddy, Pamela returned home to Perth today. I will miss her and her bright cheery ways!! Last night we went out for dinner to an Indian restaurant. It was very nice - I think we ate too much!! It was a lovely balmy evening and we sat outside. Pamela brought her woolly jumper as she gets cold but I guess us Melbournites perhaps don't feel the cold as much.

The weather today was a little cooler and overcast. When I went to book my reef trip it seemed like a good idea to postpone that trip as the forecast is choppy seas. The trip to the caves sounds good and the reef can wait til next weekend

Saturday will be my market day - up early to get my fruit and veggies for the week. Paw paw and pineapples, passion fruit (grenadillas) and melons fruit salad for brekky on Sunday morning.

After the fruit market I will check out the markets along the Esplanadeand then onto the markets at the Pier.

Hopefully a stop for coffee along the way.

Yesterday I caught up with a young woman I worked with when on my last project in Cairns. It was lovely to see her and catch up with all the news of her family. I am fortunate to be able to volunteer in this way and be able to make new friends.

We met up with the CEO of the Cape York Land Council to talk about our project. the project staff seem happy with our progress to date and I will be back doing the hands on stuff on Tuesday.

Well that's about all for now. I am going to read my book and chill out with a glass of wine.

til next time

Second week in Cairns

Back at work after the weekend. The weather in the morning has been much cooler than last week, I could have worn a light long sleeved top this morning but ventured out in my usual walking gear. Singlet top and 3/4 pants!! I know it's only 13 in Melbourne today or something like that!! Still remember, I am working and not outside enjoying the sunlight all day. I haven't been doing much since my last post, mostly work and a detour via the esplanade walking home. I have a long weekend this weekend so have been planning my time. I am hoping to do a trip to the reef, probably Sunday. Just keeping an eye on the weather...
Saturday there is plenty to do with fruit and veggie shopping at Rusty's markets then markets on the esplanade. Music and other activities.
My volunteer mate leaves on Friday evening so I will be on my own next week. I will miss the company, we are going out for dinner tomorrow evening.
My connection has slowed down again this evening.!! So will stop there.. hopefully more news and photos next time
Til next time....

First Weekend in Cairns

Another beautiful day in sunny Cairns. Today my volunteer mate, Pamela and myself took the train to Kuranda. It was a perfect day for Kuranda, blue skies about 28 deg forecast, and less humidity than yesterday. We walked to the station from the hotel and caught the train about 8.30. We spent a relaxing day wandering the markets, admiring the artwork and enjoyed a beautiful lunch at Frogs Restaurant. We stopped for an ice cream before catching the skyrail back down. The skyrail trip is quite spectacular, beautiful views of the rainforest, Barron Falls and river and sweeping views over Cairns and out to see. it was great except for quite a number of minutes when the Sky rail stopped due to a technical problem!! Nervous chatter, jokes about an overnight stay in the rain forest, did we have anything to eat and don't mention the toilet!! and don't move (rock the boat) it was a bit scary, being suspended over the rain forest, the view was spectacular but...... then we started to move again thank goodness. A couple of scheduled stops and we were back on the ground.

I am looking forward to a lazy day tomorrow, nothing planned for me, maybe a walk or some shopping or perhaps just laying by the pool.. i will decide tomorrow.

Friday was busy at work, we then took a detour home via the fruit & vegie market, and the esplanade. I was tired after my first week at work and I had sore feet!!

Til next time...

Day 3 in Cairns

The weather is warm and humid, not too hot - almost perfect. My hair loves the humidity! I have big hair!!

The work is going OK only day two in the job. I am enjoying the walking in the morning before work - seems strange talking about work after being out of the workforce for a while. Tomorrow is Friday and the weekend to look forward to. It's fun having another volunteer to talk with and spend time with. We are going to KURANDA on Saturday, my colleague is only here for one weekend and she is going to the reef on Sunday. I will go to reef probably next weekend.

That's it for now.. wont bore you with work details !! till next time

Relaxing in Cairns

I had a great time in Brisbane last week, very relaxing, did some scrap booking, drank a lot of red wine and ate chocolate. my friends spoilt me!
Got home washed the summer clothes, caught up with family and it was time to pack for Cairns. i left home at 4 am this morning and arrived in Cairns 3 hours later and 30 mins before scheduled time! Have been relaxing today and settling in and tomorrow I report for work at 8.30! Work?? I am keen to get the walk in before work so it will be my usual wake up time - 5.30. I was disappointed to find that the lagoon pool is closed for maintenance. I was looking forward to relaxing there. I am only 3 blocks away from the Esplanade so it will be easy to walk before I start work. I hope my walking mates back home are continuing the morning walks without me.
I can't believe that my suitcase was overweight before I got here. Would have been even heavier if I hadn't taken out the bird book and the second pair of bathers.. ? The sun has just gone down, I have a lovely view from my apartment window. Will take a picture of it and post on the blog.. til next time

Winter is on the way.

My last blog post was the 27th March. Time has flown by, I have had a few ups and downs over the last 6-7 weeks. Life presents challenges and many lessons to be learnt. Lots of fun too in the last 6 -7 weeks, Easter eggs, BBQ's, theatre, good times with friends, great 60th birthday celebrations, a birthday lunch for Darrin and then Koby's 1st Birthday on the 1st May.

Fergus came for a sleep over last school holidays, we had pizza out at our favourite pizza place, watched DVD's til late then we had a great visit to the aquarium. Fergus took lots of photos of the fish. I loved the penguins.

My friend John's long awaited, well planned 60th party was a party to remember. Gail Jill and myself arrived back to my place at 5am. I don't think we realised it was quite so late. Another friend who shared our lift home couldn't believe that John had 'thrown' us out!! so early.... The band was great and dare I say the Karaoke even better !!! Carolynn and I didn't quite dance on the tables!!

Darrin's birthday was the day after the big party, and I had a lovely lunch with Darrin Candice and Koby.

In between the parties and the socialising I have been busy with reorganising my spare room, getting quotes for new blinds and a new bathroom! All very exciting. Malcolm is going to paint the room while I am in Brisbane and then I will get the new bookshelves and scrap booking space sorted out. Lots of 'stuff' has been thrown away, books gone to new homes, clothes to the op shop, it's been time consuming, but good to get rid of the many things that I have been hoarding in my spare room for a number of years.

My friend Judy celebrated her 60th birthday in April and I thoroughly enjoyed the celebration at the Bayview Hotel in the city. It was nice to meet Judy's family and friends - Judy looked lovely, it was a beautiful warm day and I found out some things about Judy that I didn't know!!

I had my day at VCAT with the neighbour issue - It was a long, emotional and stressful hearing (for me) - no need to dwell on that - a compromise was reached and hopefully all is over.

Koby's birthday party was lovely - Koby was the perfect party boy with lots of smiles, he seemed to take it all in his stride. It was beautiful weather and we were able to be outside and enjoy the lovely sunny backyard. Graham, Candice's dad was here from Capetown. Koby will miss Graham when he leaves today. I looked after Koby on Saturday evening when his Mum Dad and Grandad went to the footie. He had a few tears when they all left about 5pm. He soon settled down and went off to bed quite happily at 7 pm.

I picked Zac up from child care yesterday at about 2.30, it was a beautiful warm day (may have been the last one as I think winter is here today) and we had lots of fun at the park. We spent time playing on the computer, chatting and in no time at all Shelley arrived to take him home. He is a little chatterbox, very active and keeps me on my toes.

I am still walking, doing my yoga and zumba - always busy, enjoying life and looking forward to spending a week in Brisbane with my friends Sally and Bob. The weather will be warmer too.

I am hoping to head up to Cairns soon to do a project with ICV, but that's not yet definite. so more next time.

I think that has covered most of the last few weeks.. till next time

Too Long between posts.

Koby @Zac's Party Zac at his party Fergus at Phillip Island

Over a month since I last posted to my blog, the days seem to be flying by. No-one told me that retirement was quite like this.

Where to start with what's been happening to me?

Zac celebrated his 3rd birthday on 23rd February. He had a small party at at a play centre and had lots of fun. He is certainly growing his dad described him as 3 going on 8!! He wants to do all the things that Fergus does and is quite confident of being able to accomplish it all too! He came to my house on Tuesday, has been hanging out to do that for about 10 days. We had lots of fun at the park, on the beach and playing at home. I look after Koby every Wednesday. He is such a happy little boy and so good for his granny trish!! It's school holidays starting today and Fergus is coming over tomorrow for pizza, a sleepover and then we are off to the aquarium on Monday morning. Fergus will be 8 in June and before that Koby will be 1 on 1st May. Fergus is doing really well at school and is now learning to play the guitar...

I am still enjoying my early morning walks. At 7 am it' still dark but that will change when we change the clocks next Sat/Sunday. We are having beautiful weather here in Melbourne. (Not counting the terrible hail storm way back on 6th March!!) If you follow my face book then you may know that I was at Flemington racecourse that particular day! My first visit to Flemington and I was on a winning streak too!

I have seen a few movies, caught up with friends, listened to music and still managed to do some dancing. I love dancing and joined a Zumba class - check out the link...great fun and I can keep fit too. i am beginner but aspiring to reach the level of the lead dancer in the video !!! HA HA

I still have the issue of the neighbour to deal with and it goes to VCAT again on 16th April. Not sure what the outcome will be. I only wish it was over.

Still getting used to retirement and all that it brings!! including reduced income, however the Zumba classes are cheaper for pensioners!! Joking aside I think I am adjusting I miss the brain work and the social aspect of working. I do still get up at the same time every day (5.30) but have more pleasant things to do such as walking followed by coffee and good conversation.

Time to head up to the city for a discussion groups at the VSU.

Til next time.. Happy Easter and watch the chocolate intake

Home again

I arrived back in Melbourne from Zimbabwe on 5th February - it has taken this long to feel that I am almost back to normal! it was an experience returning to the old country, not one that I want to repeat, although there were some lovely moments and some relaxing times at the end of the day as I sat outside and relaxed. Some evenings there was no power and I dined?, wined and read by candle light my great little reading lamp. One day the power was off for 12 hours. The main thing is that I achieved what I wanted to achieve and got home safely. I had a little trouble at Jo'burg airport. that is being investigated at the moment and I will keep you posted.
I don't think I suffered too much jet lag I think emotionally it has taken time to adjust.

Great to be back and catch up with all the family again. I started back with my walking in the morning and my yoga the week I got back. Today I went back to my meditation group which was really good and next Monday I will get back to the Scottish Country dancing. The social life resumed the day after I got back!! Last Friday evening I enjoyed listening and dancing to Jimi Hocking and his band. Great jazz and big band sounds in Mordialloc each Saturday afternoon and evening in February and we've enjoyed a glass or two of red while listening to the sounds of Mojo.
Last night was a friends birthday - he celebrated at the Freccia Club and it was good to get the dancing shoes back on and do some Rock 'n Roll.
The neighbour dispute continues and there is a full half day hearing at VCAT due on April 16th. We (other owners and I ) are trying to do something about it, but it's not easy when someone is so determined to get her own way. I am sure she has nothing else to do except pore over the owners corporation Rules and Regulations and check the back year to see what's hanging on my washing line!!
That's about it for now, no photos this time so till next time.....

Welcome 2010

Phillip Island Holiday

Birthday celebrations with friends 8th January

My first post of the year and already it is 21st January!! Time flies. I have had a good start to the year, the new year eve celebration went well. A week later I was celebrating an early birthday with my friends at the Mentone Hotel. Great night especially the karaoke back at John's place. I don't have any photos of that but I do have pics of the evening (which I will scrapbook when I have time!!) Will post one or two here on the blog site.

There was a lot of planning and shopping for the week away in Phillip Island with the Family. We arrived at the holiday house on a very hot Sunday afternoon. Although there was a sea breeze coming up the hill from Western port Bay we soon realised that the house was going to be very hot especially overnight. The next day was even hotter with temperatures in Melbourne of 43 deg. luckily in the afternoon we were able to escape to Ian and Mavi's (my cousin)holiday unit which was air conditioned and had an indoor pool which was great for the children - so when I say I had a 'hot' birthday I really did!! It was also my official retirement day. I had lots of texts and birthday cards and gifts from Family and Friends - despite the heat I had a great day. I didn't have time to think about the song..... :)

The holiday week went quickly, beach outings, the Fishing farm, Churchill island, nights out, a visit from Rose and it was all over! Candice, Darrin and Koby did the tourist thing as it was Candice's first trip to Phillip Island. Shelley, Malcolm, Darrin & Candice and boys went to see the penguins. I had a quiet night at home. Thursday evening I babysat while the Mum's and Dad's went out. That was fun ! Candice has posted her pics on Facebook. I will get mine posted at some stage...

Back to Melbourne on Sunday and I have been busy since getting ready for the next trip which is to Zimbabwe to sort out my late Uncles cottage. Won't be a holiday as such, but it will be good to things sorted out and finished.

Facebook is great I have caught up with friends from way back.. good to keep in touch with everyone, share photos etc.

I Will have my computer with me in Bulawayo and then stopping in Joburg on the way home for one night - I probably wont have wi fi access in Bulawayo , but if I do I will post to Facebook

Happy New Year to you all.. and until next time...