Cool Crisp Mornings

are a feature of Melbourne in Autumn and a hint that winter is just around the corner. It looked like it had arrived with a rush the week after Anzac day with record snow falls in the Alps. We had decided to go back to Jamieson for the weekend and were a little worried that we might freeze. The cold was kept at bay at night with a roaring fire which Bill very cleverly managed to keep alight all night meaning nice cosy mornings as well. Waking up to see the old oak trees almost lost in the fog made us appreciate his fire lighting skills all the more. The cold spell had the leaves looking more colourful as well.

We had a great weekend just wandering around and seeing the little town from above on some of the more gentle off road tracks. Autumn colours made for some very pretty views. We had rugged up for really cold weather and I spent both days peeling off layers as the sun came out. We had 2 beautiful days for our little adventure. We did not venture back up the mountain but could see the snow on the top of Mt Buller and Mt Stirling as we went in and out of Mansfield. I think we might have to visit very soon.


The highlight of the weekend was a fundraiser in the Community Hall on Saturday night. Darryl Cotton & his band were performing live, raising money for the CFA. With his own group of three and a local muso on the Sax, a great night was had by all who attended. It sure was cold outside but with the music playing and the whole crowd bopping along no one inside was feeling the cold.

We came home the following afternoon through Flowerdale and Whittlesea and saw the devastation of the Black Saturday fires in February. It was heartbreaking and goodness only knows how long it will take for these communities to heal. I imagine it will take years.

The following Saturday night we caught up with Marg & Gunther, here from Perth for a short trip. We had a great night at Sale & Pepe's in Lygon St. It was great to see them both again. And Sunday was Mother's day when Bill showed off his culinary skill once more for a bar-b-que lunch for his Mum, Maree, Jarrod & Aaron.

Another busy week at work and it was time to get the glad rags out again as we celebrated my birthday once more. It really seems to come round quicker each year. Thanks for all your cards and good wishes.

We had dinner with Mum & Maree at Chelsea on Thrusday night, dinner with friends on Friday night at a newly discovered place in town. Bill and I went to see Cirque Du Soleil's production of Dralion on Saturday night. It was wonderful. On Sunday we were joined by Astrid, her Mum & Hans at Riverstone Winery for lunch. Bryce & Susie came along too. We had a great afternoon and at last the partying came to an end. It was a great week though and really nice to share it with friends.

As winter is fast approaching the view from our windows each day appears to be a little stunted and the mornings continue to get colder.

Until next time..............

Winners at Last

Yes, that's right. Another Anzac Day clash and this time we came home smiling. The annual Essendon vs Collingwood match fills the MCG and the last 3 years have been wonderful but without the winners smile. But at last we could walk out of the stadium with heads held high and the biggest smile for a long time.

Tammy joined us again and this year we celebrated the victory afterwards with dinner at the Yak Bar and of course a celebratory Champagne. We had been unable to get tickets originally but Bianca managed to get 3 at the last minute so this year we were not seated with Bianca or Verity. Not a problem though as the SMS kept everyone in touch throughout the game. Astrid & Hans watched from home. So the next best thing was to hold the celebration/wake the following day.

Tammy, Bill & I headed off to Chum Creek (Healesville) the next morning and we had a great day with us three all dressed for a victory dinner in Red & Black. It was very cold and Bianca took great delight in the only footwear being available to fit me was her Collingwood slippers. I still think it was rigged. Verity, together with Noel (what game?) & Bill, neighbours of Astrid's joined us for lunch and we all had a great time reliving the game. It was great to see Travers & Stephanie (just back from Germany) again too.

While there we had a wander through the forest across the road that in January had brought the fires right up to the front door. It is just amazing to see all the grass growing again though the trees will take much longer to come back, I guess. Even though we had seen all the photo's of the fires, it sure brought it home just how close they came.

Of course Anzac day is not just football and the Parade in Melbourne is something worth seeing as it makes it way along Swanston St/St Kilda Rd up to the Shrine. We have not attended the whole parade yet but have seen segments as we make our way along the streets. This year we saw a lot of Vintage war vehicles and were just astounded to see a "Billy" by Willy's Jeep manufacturers.

So with another game in the bag, it's time to see what else is happening around the place so it's back on the road again.

until next time..........

The Birthday Boy

Our little Grandson Corbyn was turning 1 year old and we had already told his Mum & Dad that we couldn't make it for the big day. But it is amazing what you can come up with over a glass of Red in a country pub.

We decided that if we could drive 31/2 hours for a weekend then surely we could let someone else drive us to Perth the following weekend. Just a bit further and a bit higher off the ground. All that was needed was the tickets. Well technology is a wonderful thing and a few hours later Bill was sitting in a lounge room miles from civilisation with a plug in internet connection and viola, we had tickets booked for the next weekend. Thanks also to Lorraine & Hans for giving us a bed on such short notice. It was great to see you both again.

In on Friday night and out on Sunday meant that our limited time was spent with Corbyn, Sarah, David, Gareth & Taegan. We had a wonderful time with everyone and really enjoyed our time with Corbyn. He sure had changed since we saw him last at 5 months old. Almost walking now and very cute. What can I say. I think we are biased but I believe that's allowed in the world of Grandparents. And we did get to surprise Dad & Anna at the party the next day. It was lovely to see them both as well. 4 generations of Harris males in one place was a pretty special event.

The weather for the party at the South Perth foreshore was just lovely and it was a perfect place for all the little people to sit, crawl & toddle around in the sunshine. Sarah made the Birthday Cake and 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' was a hit with both the big & little people. Just the first of many masterpieces I'm sure.

Of course before we knew it time had marched on and we had to head back to the airport for our ride home. But we will be back in June and hope to see you all then.

Once home it was time to get the Black & Red out for the next weekend. The big Anzac Day game and we are hoping for a change in fortunes.

until then.............