Final Tuesday and Wednesday of 2009

Tuesday
Was up as usual to see to brats and have my coffee outside. The garden was looking great after the rain which was a godsend - perfect timing with all the new plants put in yesterday. Hubby left for Alberton where he spent the morning going to several friends as well as popping in to see Faizel who had a bad fall on Sunday afternoon resulting in seven stitches on his chin. Diane and I spent our morning tidying, dusting and vacuuming. Boring! But at least the place is presentable for the start of 2010.After lunch we popped into Meyerton to get the printer ink refilled. The place was rather busy and said it would be nearly an hour before it would be done. Diane had some Oz pics to develop so we decided to quickly go into Alberton to drop them off and be back before the ink place closed. We got to Kodak and after putting the pics through the machine (303 of them) were informed they would take an hour. Deciding it would be silly to rush back to Meyerton and return for the pics later or even the next day we stopped at Tremontis for our dose of ice cream. What a disappointment! Since our last visit they have dropped in quality. The ice cream was just like crunching ice with very little flavor. After that was finished we did some shopping and then wandered around the shops. Went back to the Kodak only to find the machine had run out of ink and the pics weren’t ready. Only another 30 mins. We wandered around some more after putting the shopping in the car. It was a very hot day and humid after the rain so we were rather parched now and went into the bottle store for something cold. While we drank it and to pass the time we stopped and looked at all the fancy bottles of booze on display in the locked cabinets on the way out. There were some stunning bottles of whiskey, cognac, liqueurs and others. Some of the bottles were real show pieces at incredible prices. We went back to the Kodak – still trying to sort out the machine – another 20 mins. We decided to go and sit in the car. Luckily I had a magazine in the car and started to read it. Diane went back in at about ten past five while I carried on reading. At twenty to six I gave up waiting for her and went in to look for her. They were only just finishing off the last few pics and while waiting Diane had been checking the pics already printed. We finally left at six. Hubby was home and having a snooze when we got back. We had a shandie outside chilling for awhile until the mozzies became unbearable. After a light supper we watched TV and had our Milo.
Wednesday
I was up for my chill time as usual. I felt half asleep so had my second as I finished the first. Felt more than ready to face the day after that. After breakfast Hubby got the deke out as we wanted to give it a run. We left about nine going the scenic route through Henley-on-Klip to Deneysville. Hubby had been told about a newly opened Motorbike Museum there. We arrived just after ten. I was surprised at the amount of visitors to the museum which was very interesting. There was a section on the TT races on the Isle of Mann as well as old bike racing legends. A fair amount of the legends were Rhodesians. Hubby was thrilled to see his friend, Lofty Pretorius’s bike which is on loan to the museum for six months. The bike is a very rare 1954 Jawa which he has completely restored – a project that took many years. After we had been through the museum we wandered over to the restaurant attached to the place. Hubby had a shandie while Diane and I decided to be adventurous and we had a spiced gold and coke. Very Nice! We asked the barman for a menu and were informed a board would be put out at half twelve with the lunch menu. The place looked good so we decided to wait for lunch. Mistake! When the menu came out we settled for steak and chips. There were no vegetarian dishes so Hubby ordered Diane chips and a salad. The waitress asked if she would also like mushrooms which was ordered. The food took a fair time to come. The steaks for tasty and very tender. The chips were fair but Diane found the salad unpleasant and the mushroom terrible. After I had eaten I decided to taste her mushroom as I couldn’t believe it was that bad. I bit into it and immediately spat it out. The thing was rubbery and actually tasted perfumed. Needless to say we didn’t even bother having coffee after the meal. We left and headed for Vereeniging to have a coffee and cake. On the way there we had a phone call inviting us to spend two days in the Pilansberg. We accepted and are off tomorrow morning. When we stopped at the Three Rivers Shopping Centre Diane and I went into to get supplies for the two days. We spotted an ice cream parlour and decided to cool off with some instead of coffee and cake. I had three scoops –black cherry and brandy liqueur, coffee and pecan nut and hazel nut. It was absolutely delicious. Diane had the same except chocolate instead of the hazel nut. We sat on a bench and chilled while we ate it, deciding that in future we would go there for our ice cream treat. After shopping we got three scoops for Hubby.( He had stayed near the car as he didn’t want anyone driving off with his favourite car).We arrived back home around four and after unloading the car had a coffee and waffles in our favourite spot. I cooked supper and then put potato on to make a salad to take with. We have had our milo and Diane has gone to bed. I must just finish the potato salad and then I’m off to bed.Cheers for now. I will do the next blog when we are back letting you know how our New Year in the Pilansberg went.
To all of you. Have a fabulous New Year and may 2010 be full of happiness and prosperity

Last Sunday & Monday of 2009

On Sunday morning Hubby was his usual wonderful self bringing breakfast in bed. Unfortunately this happened at seven as he thought it was Monday morning. It was a beautiful day again so it was not a hardship being up early. After eating I got up and had a second coffee chilling in my spot under the trees. The garden was really looking good after the rain we had overnight. There were a lot of birds around singing in the trees and I felt good sitting there in my little piece of paradise.After all the gallivanting and chilling of the last few days I thought I should make an effort and clear the washing. I did several loads in-between doing some cleaning and tidying. I didn’t overdo things and also spent time reading. I am currently reading ` Once in a Lifetime’ by Cathy Kelly. It is the first book I have read of hers and I am finding it excellent reading. I intend looking in the library to see if they have anything written by her. I love reading and ever since a kid have been a book worm. When I am engrossed in a book I notice nothing going on around me. At junior school we were given our maths lesson first and once we had completed it were allowed to read a book from the library at the back of the class while waiting for the rest of the class to finish. One day I got so engrossed in a book that I didn’t realize everyone had finished the maths and was ready to start the next lesson. The teacher spoke to me several times but of course I didn’t hear. Eventually the sound of laughter filtered through to me and when I looked up to see what was happening I was mortified to see everyone looking at me and laughing. The teacher very politely asked if I was ready for the next lesson which made the class laugh even more. I wished the floor would open up and swallow me. Needless to say I made sure that never happened again. Late afternoon we had our glass of wine outside after which I made supper before watching TV. There was a lot of thunder and lightning around but no more rain. There wasn’t very much on TV so I went to bed to read some more.
Monday
I was up at six again when my alarm went off. The brats went out after their usual biscuit treat and I sat with my coffee. Today was a normal routine day and I made breakfast for Hubby and he was able to stay in bed for a change. Gino arrived at about eight to help Hubby. The Vehicle Carrier Service were due today to fetch the Studebaker Hawk that was going down to its new home in P. E. and Hubby wanted him to help in getting it ready. Hubby phoned the people to see what time they would be coming and was told they would be there about twelve. There was plenty of time to sort out the car so Gino decided to check what was needed to install outside plugs for us (he has been promising to do it for months now)after which he and Hubby went off to the hardware to get what was needed and I decided to do my ironing before it got too hot. They were gone for ages and I eventually phoned to see if they had decided to take a quick trip to Alberton. They were at the Nursery in Meyerton buying trees to plant for the new year. I started a beef olive dish ready for lunch just as they got back. Gino started the plugs while Hubby and the gardener started planting.They had brought several seedling trays of flowers, herbs and three trees. Hubby replanted the herb garden with the new plants and extended the garden with a rosemary and lavender bush as well as a bay leaf tree. A tree was planted in the play area as well as against the boundary fence. The flowers were dotted around the beds. Everything looked good after they had finished. There has certainly been more rain this season so far more than normal as the lawn out the back is looking very lush with no bare patches at all. It has been years since it last looked so good. I made rice and peas to go with the beef olives and work stopped while we ate. Gino carried on afterwards with the plugs and Hubby had a call to say the Stud would be collected at three. Diane and I went into Meyerton to do some shopping and sort some things out at the bank. We arrived back at three thirty to find the Stud was still there. Hubby phoned to see where the driver was and discovered he was almost there. Him and Gino went to show the way from the highway while we unpacked the shopping. The Stud was loaded onto the trailer. Diane and I went to check on proceedings and then went for a walk. When we got back Gino was finishing off the plug in the braai area. Diane and I poured shandies and we all sat chilling under the trees. Hubby’s friend arrived and joined us. We sat until the rain that had been threatening all day started. There was lots of thunder, lightning and strong winds. The friend left and we made snacks for supper seeing as we had our cooked meal at lunch time. Gino left afterwards and Diane and I cleaned up before chilling in front of the TV with our Milo.

The festive Season

Christmas Eve
Had set my alarm for 4.00am but Hubby was a better alarm as he woke me with a cup of coffee and a slice of toast before the time. I had just finished when the alarm went off. We both got ourselves dressed, sorted the dogs and left for the airport. We were both so excited as we were off to fetch Diane. It was about five once we had parked at the airport. The trip through had been quick and uneventful thanks to the early time and time of year - the road works are at a standstill until the new year. Hubby headed for the loo while I checked the arrivals board. The plane had landed half an hour earlier so after giving up waiting for Hubby I headed for the arrivals point. I just made it as Diane came through within five minutes. We were really thrilled to see each other and Diane was glad to be back on South African soil. After a wait for Hubby who didn’t materialize we went upstairs to the food court to look for him. There was no sign of him and after about ten minutes I told Diane to stay there while I went back down to look for him. Sure enough he was there waiting for Diane to come through and wondering where I was. We went back up to Diane and then headed to Wimpy for breakfast. Nothing can beat a Wimpy Breakfast!! Once we had eaten and had several cups of coffee we headed home arriving back by seven.The morning was spent chilling under the trees chatting and catching up on each other’s news.At about one we headed into Alberton. First stop was the workshop where Uncle Ivan was waiting for us so he could head off to his daughter ready for Christmas. He wasn’t there but had walked down to the shops. Diane and I went looking for him while Hubby waited there with Faizel (checking how he was doing). We found Uncle Ivan and gave him a lift back up to the workshop. After things were sorted out we left for Angie’s where we were having a big get-together for Christmas. Angie is in the catering industry and she puts on an impressive spread. We spent a fabulous afternoon socializing, eating, drinking and generally having a great time together. Those that we had Oz souvenirs for were thrilled with their Kangaroos and Koalas. It was well after seven by the time we left and almost dark. We stopped at the Randhart Woolies food store for Christmas Day supplies before heading home. Everyone was really tired now especially Diane – jet lag was starting to be felt. We were all in bed shortly after nine as it had been a very long day.
Christmas Day
Hubby was up first around eight and made us breakfast in bed. I could really get used to this life of leisure. It will be a rude awakening when the workshop re-opens and life is back to the normal routine. After a leisurely morning chilling outside we all went for a nap as the heat and long day yesterday was still affecting us. I surfaced first and decided as it was too hot to be outside and picnic as we had planned so decided to cook instead. I roasted potatoes, made veg and rice and carved the chicken from Woolies. Diane woke and put out all the Christmas Décor on the table. We really enjoyed our Christmas Lunch which we finished off with a pudding we had found at Woolies. It was a jelly smothered in all sorts of fresh berries and strawberries and it was perfect for the hot weather. The rest of the day was spent chilling and watching Christmas shows on TV. After the full day yesterday we certainly needed our quiet relaxing day.
Boxing Day
Wonderful Hubby was up first again and brought us breakfast in bed. Life sure is good. After clearing the kitchen and feeding the dogs we decided to take the Sunbeam for a drive to Parys. It was a gorgeous day with the sun shining in a brilliant blue sky. I drove going through Vanderbijl and past the Barrage to get there as it is a more scenic route. Everywhere was so lush and green after all the rain we have had. At the end of the Barrage road we noticed a farm with a Tea Garden sign. The place was full of cannas in flower including red ones. Hubby loves red cannas and said we should stop there on the way back and see if they had red ones for sale. We reached Parys about twelve and drove around looking at all the food, craft and antique spots deciding which place looked the best to eat at. Everywhere looked good but we settled on a coffee shop cum restaurant and deli called Feasts. The decision was an excellent one. Feasts was set inside a lovely herb garden with fountains. The deli had very unusual chutneys and jams. The menu was impressive and it was not easy deciding what to eat. Hubby settled on a rump steak with chips and veg, Diane chose vegetarian pasta and I had a chicken pasta. We were all really pleased with our choice. Diane’s meal was so good that she polished everything off (She always takes home a doggy bag). Hubby had beans and pumpkin as his veg and said that the beans were the best ever (they were sprinkled with herbs). His steak was so tender it just melted in the mouth. The cheese sauce on my pasta was the tastiest and cheesiest I have ever tasted. We had our glass of red wine with our meal. After that delicious meal we knew we couldn’t leave without sampling a dessert. We all settled for a honey and cinnamon cheesecake. Luckily the portion wasn’t too big as the cheesecake was too good to waste any of it. By the time the meal was finished we could hardly move (we very rarely ever have a dessert when dining out) but our taste buds had just had the treat of their lives. We will definitely go back there. That place is very lucky to have such an outstanding chef. After our meal we wandered around the town walking off our meal and checking out the shops. Parys is a lovely town and the perfect tourist destination. Hubby remembers what a popular spot it was when he was growing up. He and his family spent many weekends there. After our walk Hubby drove us around the town and down to the river where the old swing bridge is.We left Parys late afternoon and went back the same way stopping at the Bon-Af Berry Farm which we had noticed on our outward trip. The farm has been in the family for five generations since 1839 and was very interesting with a museum above the tea shop. They have a very large berry orchard growing about seventy types of berry. We were given a short lecture on berry growing and then let loose in the orchard where we could sample as much as we liked. It is not a place to go to after eating a huge lunch but we were able to sample several different kinds of berry. Unfortunately Hubby had no luck with getting a red canna but did buy several cape gooseberry plants as well a blueberry plant. After a cup of rooibos at the tea room we left for home arriving back at about six. After such a food-filled day none of us could even think about food so we just chilled outside under the tree until thunder and lightning drove us inside. The storm lasted most of the night. We spent the evening watching TV before having a Milo and going to bed. We really did have a fabulous day out and can’t wait to go back there for a repeat performance. Very few of us realize what wonderful places we have on our doorsteps.
Cheers and all the very best for the Festive Season.

Tuesday/ Wednesday

Tuesday
After Hubby and I chilled outside with our morning cuppa and chat we breakfasted and while I cleaned the kitchen Hubby sorted out his toe. He has still not managed to get it right unfortunately. I went to switch the TV off after watching the news and weather but before I switched off I saw the movie Secondhand Lions was on. I had enjoyed watching it last week and knew Hubby would enjoy it. While he watched I did my chores and got myself ready for Alberton. He thoroughly enjoyed the movie and was glad I had told him to watch it. We left for Alberton to go fetch the beds I had seen taking the bakkie. After loading the beds we headed for the workshop so that I could finish faxing my statements. While I faxed Hubby did some more work on machines he is overhauling ready for re-opening in the New Year. By the time we had both finished it was late morning. After stopping to buy paint for Faizel to paint the press we went home via Steers. We both had chips, a steak roll and an ice cold coke. I know. Very bad for the health but it was delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed the meal.Arriving home we reversed the bakkie in for offloading and then flaked out on the bed for our siesta. Things like this are very important at our age. I got up around four when it was cooler and the gardener and I offloaded the beds. Hubby and I then had our sundowner and chat under the trees. The mozzies chased us in as usual. Hubby felt energetic enough to make supper after our relax outside. After the super meal he made I cleaned the kitchen and we watched TV. I watched CSI and Hubby watched his cooking programmes – he says he has picked up lots of tips from watching. We had our Milo and then were into bed.WednesdayToday Hubby was up early and brought me my coffee in bed. I dozed for a couple of more minutes before taking it outside to have my chill time. Hubby joined me and we sat chatting and chilling for nearly an hour before I fed the dogs and made breakfast. We both really enjoy this time together in the morning and evening. After breakfast I did some office work before showering to get ready for Germiston. Hubby and I left at about ten to attend the funeral of an old friend, Dot Illett. She had been 88yrs old. I have known her for about 24yrs and Hubby for years longer than that. She was a wonderful person. Always happy and smiling. The service was at the Anglican Church which is an old and magnificent building at the top of Germiston. It is always good to see friends again but sad that it is at only at times like this. We all seem to get so busy with our lives that we don’t always get to see people we should see more of and then of course it is then too late. The tea afterwards was in the church hall and we spent time with people who we hadn’t seen in years. Richard Illett had come up from Cape Town where he has lived for many years. The last time we saw him was at Dot’s 8oth birthday. His daughter was not able to be there as she now lives and works in London. It was good to catch up on everybody’s news and lives. After we left Germiston we stopped at the workshop to see how Faizel was doing. All was fine so we headed to Alberton City for some needed supplies. While I shopped Hubby wandered around looking for snack food. He certainly has been enjoying our snacking outside. After shopping for the mundane I did some last minute Christmas shopping while Hubby headed for the car as his foot was feeling painful.Arriving home we unpacked the shopping before having our siesta. We were up at four thirty and headed out for a glass of wine under the trees. It is such a lovely time of day outside. The air has cooled down and there always seems to be a light breeze. Hubby made some snacks and we sat munching, chatting and drinking until just before seven. Hubby left for another neighbourhood blitz and I cleaned the kitchen. The siren was set off and wailed for about five minutes before stopping. If I was up to no good in the area in the middle of the night and heard that going off I think I would just take off running in a panic. At least I hope that is what would happen. I have done my blog. Hubby is back and watching TV – cooking as usual. I shall now make a Milo and watch my TV.

Saturday thro to Monday

Saturday
Up early as usual with our chill time outside. Hubby left early for the Piston Ring venue. This was last meeting of the year and he needed to set up for the breakfast scheduled for Sunday. He had ordered wors from his favourite butcher in Alberton( they make the best wors ever) and went via there to pick up the order for Sunday. The order was for 40kgs so they plan on making plenty of breakfasts. I spent the day cleaning up the house. Hubby arrived home about three and we both had a nap. We are having a heat wave at the moment and at our age need our naps to keep going as the heat is exhausting.When we surfaced we chilled outside with a wine before having an early supper. Hubby had his neighbourhood watch patrol for after twelve so he went to bed early. I watched the “ Quantum of Solace” – the bond movie with Daniel Craig. When it finished I set my alarm for 12.30am and fell asleep.When the alarm went off I woke hubby and made him coffee and a piece of toast to take with on his patrol. I showered and then watched TV while I waited for him to come back. I watched Layercake which also starred Daniel Craig. The movie finished just as Hubby got back. It was well after two and we both went to bed.
Sunday
Hubby was eager to be off to the Piston Ring and woke me with breakfast in bed at 5.30am. I could hardly keep my eyes open as I ate and had my coffee. I decided it was much too early for me to surface. Hubby left for the meeting and I went back to sleep waking at around eight. After my chill coffee outside I felt more human and phoned hubby to see how things were going. Breakfast was scheduled for nine and they were getting ready to start the food. The menu was wors, bacon, eggs, beans fried with tomato, garlic and onion and a roll. Those attending the meeting sure had a good nosh up. Late morning I went to the local shop for dog food and got myself some chips from the take away. I really enjoyed them. The weather was really hot again and when I got back I put all the fans on and opened windows wide to let the breeze blow through. Hubby and I had a nap when he got back around two. Unfortunately the phone kept ringing so we didn’t have much of a nap. About four we chilled outside with a shandy and a chat. I caught up on all the news and skinner from the Piston Ring. It was so lovely outside as a cool breeze was blowing. Hubby decided to make snacks again and we had a glass of red wine with. We sat until it got dark. The sunset was stunning – shades of orange and pink. I really love my piece of paradise. Hubby went to bed early to catch up on his sleep and I watched some TV. There wasn’t much on and I kept falling asleep. I went to take the dogs out for the last time. As I went to the door a large frog was sitting on the step. I closed the door as I didn’t want the dogs to hurt it. I sloshed water out the window at it to chase it away. There were two dog bowls outside with water in and the frog just jumped into the nearest one and sat in the water. The experts say if you have frogs you have a good eco system in your area. We have plenty of frogs around and now that it is their mating season they serenade all night long. We have a pond outside our bedroom window and by the volume of noise we must have a huge one in there. I quickly took the dogs out while it was in the bowl of water and then went to bed.
Monday
We had a very rude awakening this morning. There was such a tremendous clap of thunder that it sounded as if something had crashed into the house. There was a huge electrical storm raging outside. I’m sure the whole neighbourhood was awake after that. The rain started but didn’t last long. I had my morning coffee watching some TV. It rained on and off nearly all day so we will only fetch the bed tomorrow. I spent the day pottering around and waiting for the weather to improve so I could do statements. Hubby was home fairly early and we chilled and chatted with a shandy outside. Luckily the sun was out by then. While we were sitting there a little Cape White Eye was flitting among the plants right next to us. It was amazing as us and the dogs sitting there didn’t bother it at all. I have finished the statements and emailed what I can. The rest can be done tomorrow from the workshop. We have had our milo. The blog is done. All that’s left is to shower and into bed.
Cheers and enjoy your week.

End of our week

Thursday
Was up as usual chilling under the trees with my morning pick me up. To be back to normal after our lovely day out was not easy. The holiday mood was still there and it was hard to get down to the usual chores and routine after Hubby left for the workshop. Hubby takes this chance when the workshop is closed to make sure nothing needs overhauling , fixing or just repainting so that all is in order for the re-opening in the New Year.I spent the day pottering around until Hubby came home late afternoon. I needed to go to the ATM so Hubby and I quickly went into Meyerton. We were surprised to see Pick n Pay still open so did some shopping for the weekend. Browsing around we found some really good snack food and red wine( Mine was all gone).Turning into our road on the way home we spotted a meerkat crossing over in front of us. When it spotted us it dashed back into the bushes on the roadside. Things like this is what makes this place so special. There are also the occasional little buck spotted in the farm areas here as well as jakkel. Country life and our little spot of Paradise is really special and nothing and nowhere can compare.When we got back we offloaded and decided to ` Test Drive’ our snacks. Hubby made the snacks while I poured the wine. Gosh but they were good! We sat feeding our faces and nattering until it was dark and the mozzies were out in force again. There’s always something waiting to spoil paradise. Seeing as we didn’t need much supper after all that I just cooked chicken legs which we had with a roll at about nine.
Friday
Was up early again to my normal routine after chilling and absorbing the tranquility of paradise. Hubby left for the workshop and I headed to Alberton for shopping I needed. First stop was the license dept as there were several to be paid. I thought it would be a breeze waltzing in and out as most people would be away for the hols. What a rude awakening I had. The queue was as far as the door. I just stepped through and was straight into the back of the line. It was an hour before I got to the top of the queue. When I left the queue was outside the door. After standing in the blazing sun(temp was 34 C) for so long the car was an oven. At least it is now done. I was looking for a new double bed for the spare room so stopped at various shops on the way through Alberton. No luck! The prices were ridiculous so I stopped and looked at bedding. Either everybody has bought bedding for Christmas or the shops don’t waste space on such mundane things over the festive season. There was absolutely nothing. I consoled myself by stopping at Jam for a couple of tops. Shopping is good for the soul!
I went up to the workshop for a brief visit before going down to Alberton City to see if I would have better luck. Bad Idea! Everybody was shopping there. I wanted to park under cover to keep the car cool. It took about 20 mins to find a parking. I actually parked right at the top in an area I never even Knew was there. Live and Learn! The shops there were just as bad so I left for home after getting myself an ice cold Soda Water. On the way home I went via the main street in the old shopping area and spotted a bed shop. Talk about lucky! They have just opened and had lots of opening specials. I found exactly what I wanted. Hubby and I will go fetch it on Monday with his bakkie. I must still look for bedding but will wait for the New Year. They should have a decent range by then. When I got home I collapsed on the bed to recover from my ordeal. I had my much needed wine outside at about five. Hubby was home late as he and his pal have started their Friday arvie coffee get together again. I made a late supper again of steak, egg and chips. Delicious and perfect for a casual Friday meal. After watching TV and having a Milo I went to bed. Hubby was already snoring away.

Wednesday - Day of Reconciliation

Woken at my usual time but not by my alarm. Seeing as it was a public holiday Hubby decided to bring me breakfast in bed. Bliss! I lay in bed listening to the birds outside who were in full chorus. After feeding the dogs Hubby and I got ready for a day out.We had decided earlier in the week that we would treat ourselves to an outing to go buy some trout which we haven’t had lately. We left around nine, first stopping for petrol and a juice for the road. We took the back roads to avoid all the road works everywhere and joined the highway past Benoni. It was a lovely drive. The roads were fairly quiet and everywhere was so green. We travelled through Belfast where we were stopped in a Police Road Block. I had to produce my Drivers License and they checked my lights as well as the license disc. Luckily all was in order. We reached Dullstroom at about twelve and had a look around an Antique Shop before heading for a bite to eat. We found a really quaint little café where we each had a cappuccino before having an open sandwich with trout, cream cheese and salad. It was delicious as the trout was so fresh. I had my usual glass of red wine with it. We were in no rush and sat chatting and enjoying our meal and surroundings. Afterwards I had another cappuccino and a piece of carrot cake while Hubby had another sandwich. When we eventually finished our meal we headed further up the main street stopping in various craft and curio shops. There was some really good stuff around. We found a small branch of Millys where we bought our trout to take home (we had put a cooler bag with ice bricks in the car ready). When we came out of Millys Hubby noticed a Clock Shop over the road (another of his passions) which we just had to visit. The place was unbelievable. I have never seen so many clocks in one place. They had everything possible from little clocks to the most stunning Grandfather Clocks. There was a Yellow Submarine Clock as well as a Marilyn Monroe clock. They had about 50 different Grandfather Clocks and hundreds of others. Anyone looking for a clock would be spoilt for choice. After leaving the shop we took a drive around the town looking at the lovely old churches and houses before heading back home. Deciding not to go back through Belfast we took a dirt road through to Machadadorp. The decision was a good one as the scenery was fantastic with lots of Guest Farms and Trout Dams along the way. As far as the eye could see was rolling hills covered in green. There has certainly been plenty of rain so far this season.We rejoined the Highway just before the Millys Star Stop and headed back towards home. By now we were feeling thirsty so we stopped at the Millys Restaurant to have a Rock Shandy after which we went into Millys shop and then into their express shop. We had decided today was a no rush day and took our tome wandering around. Of course we had to buy more – sweets and nuts plus a trout sandwich to share later. We couldn’t resist as they had such huge chunks of trout in it.We climbed back into the car and carried on our way home. Luckily the roads were still quiet as I’m sure most people have already left for their Christmas holidays. The workshop closed on Friday (11th) as did most places. It was nearly seven when we arrived home, having eaten our sandwich at about half six in the car. Those chunks of trout were the best. The first thing we did was put the trout into the freezer and then we sat outside having an ice cold shandy. The sun hadn’t set yet and it was lovely outside. We sat until the Mozzies chased us in. We really enjoyed our day out and are feeling relaxed and recharged ready for anything that comes our way. The blog is done and all that’s left is for Hubby and I to have a Milo and watch TV. Cheers

First Week back Home

Well we are back and finally getting back into the swing of our normal lives. The first couple of days were terrible as we really battled with jet lag. Neither of us slept well the first few nights. This made it even harder to catch up on sleep and get back to normal. By Saturday I was sleeping properly and had adjusted to being home again.It was really great to be back in S.A. The garden is looking really lush and green as there had been a lot of rain while we were away. Just to sit under the trees again with my coffee listening to the birds was heaven. Hubby and I sit out there every morning having our morning cuppa. As glad as we were to be back, the dogs were even happier to see us again and join us for the daily cuppa. Digby was filthy – not my little white baby – but it was a couple of days before I was able to feel energetic enough to wash him. I’m sure he is feeling great being clean again.
We enjoyed seeing Perth but have both decided there is no place like home. The scenery here is so lush and green at the moment. Perth is brown and dry as they only have winter rain. Restaurants and entertainment places really need to visit S.A. to see what good food is about. Even KFC and McDonalds is not a patch on our places plus there is no Steers. The cost of living is really high and the shops not as good as ours. The safety factor and family orientated life is obviously a big plus as is the public transport system. There we have a lot to learn. When we went to the Open Air Concert we really enjoyed that but what most impressed us was that ,after , when everybody left there was not a single piece of paper or rubbish lying anywhere. Unbelievable considering everyone was picnicking there and the place was packed. Here we would need a team of cleaners in afterwards. Our beaches and facilities along the beaches (somewhere for a cuppa) are far superior though I did really enjoy being on the beach there.Well we are happy we went to Perth and have seen that part of the world but I doubt whether we would bother going back. I would rather visit the U.K. and Scotland. Hubby would like to visit America someday but that doesn’t appeal to me. Too many hillbillies for my liking.
The peace and quiet of our plot has soaked right through me and all is right in my world again.
Today I was busy in the office when I heard a bird singing really loudly. I went to look and as I walked into the kitchen a little weaver bird flew out. I went back to the office and about ten minutes later heard it again. I crept down the passage quietly and peeped round carefully. The weaver was back and hopping around the kitchen floor singing away. Most unusual. I made a movement and he flew out and sat in the tree by the back door singing away still. I shut the back door as I would not like the dogs to have him for a snack. There are a lot of birds around at the moment. There are several Red Bishops building nests around the garden as well as lots of weavers. Luckily we don’t seem to get crows here. Wherever we went in Perth were crows galore driving us dilly with their incessant noise.
Hubby has gone to his committee meeting at the Piston Ring ready for the Sunday Meeting. His services are required as chef for the end of year breakfast. I told him he had better let them know he really can’t do it. He got antibiotics for his toe which was infected again while on holiday.( He did too much walking and running for buses.) The antibiotics finished today and his toe has not improved in any way whatsoever. I told him to go back to the Dr. today but you Know Men – too stubborn for their own good. I am doing my blog now and then will watch some TV with a Milo. It just doesn’t taste the same when Diane is not here to share it. I’m sure we will really appreciate each other once she is back. Well at least I hope she appreciates me. LOL!
I miss her terribly especially with regard to doing the blog. It took me ages to sort myself out to be able to do it on my own but at least I’m on track again. Also we put the Vodacom Connection away so if there was a break-in it would not be found. Well Diane is like my mother. She hides something so well it can’t be found again. I spent the first two days back searching every possible spot. No Luck. I went out and bought a new sim card and airtime for her connection which I did find. She has the sim card for it in her phone in Oz. Really Helpful I must say. Cheers. Public holiday tomorrow . Enjoy the day

Flight Back

Our last day was hectic with getting sorted out to leave – doing all washing ( I can’t handle packing dirty clothes),stripping beds, washing bedding and remaking them. Was up and out early with Diane for my last walk along the beach and dip in the sea. Sniff ,sniff. Really enjoyed it. We were all packed and ready by late afternoon. All that was left to do was a light supper and farewells to be said.Our flight left at midnight so it was a very long day. Once on board we were given drinks(my trusty red wine) and a meal. I had fish and Hubby had beef. After our coffee it was time to try and sleep. Unfortunately this time the flight was fairly full and we had to stay in our allotted seats to sleep. Hubby and I were in row 63 and Ali and Travis were in row 44. Which was a relief as Ali has been in a permanent bad mood while on holiday and we needed our alone time to try and recover. The time was two in the morning and I set my time to S.A. time – eight o’clock. Early for S.A. to go to bed but not for Oz. We were not able to sleep apart from a nap now and again. Got woken for breakfast at three in the morning. Landed at five managing to go through passport control quickly but waited forever for the luggage to come through. It was really good to be back in S.A. We had a coffee at the airport before heading to the workshop and then home. All was fine and running smoothly at both places.Hubby’s toe had become re-infected while we were away and he went to the Dr. for antibiotics in the afternoon. We were both in bed early as jet lag had caught up but neither of us slept well. Diane is still in Oz and I really miss her. We get on well and are very good friends too. We only have the occasional falling out which is over quickly thank goodness.I apologize for the delay in updating the blog but I battled without Diane but have finally sorted things out and will be on track again. Cheers .Have a good week.

Holiday shots from Oz

Last week in Oz

Our last week has ended and it is time for home again. This week has been a busy one. On Tuesday we went on a BLT – bus, lunch and tram. We left from Perth at 9.45am on the boat and cruised down to Freemantle. It was a beautiful day and the views along the Swan River where unbelievable. At one stage Diane and I went to the front of the boat and saw hundreds of jellyfish in the water. At first we thought it was plastic bags floating along but a closer look revealed transparent jellyfish.We reached Freemantle at about eleven and hopped onto the Tram for a tour of the town. Freemantle is the main port with billions of dollars of revenue generated annually. Our tour around was really interesting – we saw all the historic sites – from the War Memorial, Prison (the first person hanged there was a fifteen year old boy), old mine houses, historical buildings, museums and the fishing harbour. The tour guide was excellent with a really good sense of humour. After the tram ride we got back on the James Stirling for the cruise back to Perth having a really good lunch on the way. The James Stirling is the biggest Cruiser owned by Cooks Cruises and was a beautiful boat. Back in Perth we jumped on the double-decker bus for the tour around the town and through Kings Park. We sat right at the front which was really scary as it seemed as if the bus was not going to miss other traffic when it turned corners etc. After the ride we did some souvenir shopping and had a snack and drink before heading home. All in all it was a fabulous and interesting day.On Thursday we went to Caversham Wild Animal Park. We arrived in time for an early lunch of fish and chips. Hubby visited the Motor Museum which he thoroughly enjoyed while we went to the Childrens Forest. The Ozzies really have a lot to learn. Our forest area on the plot is a forest. This was just an area of dry grass and bushes. The heat was unreal – hot and muggy. We refreshed ourselves with a cold drink before going into the animal section. This was beautiful and well worth the visit. We went into the Kangaroo and Koala enclosures and got really good photos. We left late afternoon and got back in time for a Christmas Dinner Bob and Sylv had made. This was the only time not interfering with the wedding plans and while everyone was still together – Bob’s children and partners were also there for the wedding.Diane and I are still enjoying our early morning walks and swim at the beach. We usually arrive around seven in the morning while it is not windy and too hot. We are the only ones still getting up early.
On Saturday was the Main Event. Sylv and Bob got married with Sylv making a Stunning Bride. Alan and I both walked her down the aisle. The wedding took place in Kings Park which was a lovely setting. Diane took some really good pics. Ali read a poem for them. Desiree and Dougie with their boys had come to Perth from Adelaide for the weekend to attend the wedding. It was good to see them and catch up on news. Everything went well though it was rather hot. After the wedding we all headed back to the house where most of us got into the pool to cool off. The day ended with a tasty meal at Kulture.I will really miss the walks along the beach and the freedom to do so. Everybody makes use of the walkways – not matter what time of day you walk there is always plenty of people out and about walking, running or cycling. The beach also always has people in the water – a lot seem to go down before going off to work or school.
Well that is our Oz trip over. Will update our return tomorrow.Cheers