happy new year

well the festivities are almost over. We survived having 21 (22 counting beautiful Samantha) Kennedys in the rain. It was great to talk to everyone.Our new kitchen coped very well with drinks on tuesday ad Christmas Day. Its great to have so much more bench space. (and a dishwasher of course). Everyone here very happy with their presents (Lucy especially- now all she needs is her licence.) spent the last few days doing nothing and sitting around at home. How's the pool table going boys, have you managed to beat your Mum yet. I am putting a picture of Clare in, how anybody thinks she is a Kennedy- she is so much like the O'Loughlins it is not funny. In fact at one stage on Christmas Day I took a quick glance and thought Moo was sitting at the table! Anyway, I have just added the photo and did it right (with help from the lovely girl in the photo), that's about all, wishing everyone a happy new year, watch those hangovers. Annie

Hi All

Thanks Moo for your Christmas message. We all appreciated your calls; they drew us all together which is the real spirit. Mum and I spent Christmas Day at Glenbrook where the Jack and Fran team presented a great set up for dinner as you can see from the pictures. The Faggions lead by Fran, on this occasion, are so welcoming and inclusive that those on the fringe of the fold feel greatly at home. The olds did not see much of the young ones after lunch as they were so taken up with the pool table. I should have photographed it but you will all see it in time. Connor told me on Sunday that Liam had only beaten him 2-1. There is plenty of competition in those boys. Kate came to lunch on Monday when she and I exchanged gifts. I was the smartest dressed golfer on the course today due to the smart shirt. I cut Aunty Kate and Friz a (stingy) piece of my Rocky Road, today; but I've stashed away all of the coconut ice. Weve all been in touch with each other and the contacts will continue over the holiday period. We are anxiously awaiting Liam's next edition of Blue View News. There will be no more transport problems when we visit Canberra as Lucy is the latest addition to the driving pool.

Happy Holiday All.

Love Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev & Joan

Festive Greetings addit

I am becoming a bit of a blog hog aren't I?
I forgot to tell you about my gift from my friend Louise and her husband Chris. They have bought tickets to the Day/Night match between England and Australia to be played in Cardiff on June 24th 2010. They bought a ticket for me as well - my Christmas gift! Will be a great return from my trip to Aus for Kev's Birthday celebrations.
Will leave you all in peace for a while now and give someone else a chance to post something. xxxxx

Festive Greetings

Festive Greetings to all!
Hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas day celebrations. Got to speak to Kev & Joan before they left for the Mountains. Also spoke to Kate and Hasi as he opened his present, and Anne, Steve, Clare and Lucy. I was planning to phone The Glenbrrok Isos on Christmas morning our time (your evening) to see how the day went, but had a phone call at 0620 to go to work. Didn't think you would appreciate a call at 1a.m. which is the time it would have been when I returned home.
Had a glass of bubbly whilst opening gifts. Thanks Jack, that was just the CD I had been wanting. They have been playing a couple of tracks from it on the radio here. The diary is beautiful also, and you can never have enough tea towels. Many many thanks.
I also had a gift from Maria - a beautiful pewter brooch of a circle of possums which has a celtic look to it as well. A very interesting and lovely piece which looks fab on my Welsh tapestry!
Last night (Sunday) Jules and I went into Swansea for Jules to meet up with a load of biker friends from years ago. Met in a pub in Swansea. They do it every year on Dec 27 apparently. We only heard about it last year and we were in Australia so this was our first opportunity to go. Was good for Jules to see them again and they were very welcoming to me. I drove so I was one of the few sober people by the time we left (only about 11.15p.m. - the pubs close in Swansea!).
Tomorrow we are going to my friend pam's house for an "Australia Day". She and her husband, Paul, have been to Australia three times - they got married in the Blue Mountains a few years ago. They have been wanting me to see their photos and video of their travels, so tomorrow is the day. Jules has been invited but told he can leave when he gets bored.
Look forward to reading on this page of everyone's festive frolics and gifts received.
Take care and have fun. Happy New Year to all.
Love Moo xxxxx

Welsh Greetings Addit

Hi
Just to let you know I have taken delivery of my gift from Jack. Of course, I won't be opening it until Christmas Day. Thank you very much. Love Moo xxxx

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Our garden looks like a Christmas card today. We have a lovely covering of snow and our resident robin is all plumped up and looking like he owns it all. Actually we have had a lot of avian visitors today. It's wonderful to witness.
No real news to tell. Just wanted to say "hello" and wish everyone a very enjoyable festive Season. Hope all the Christmas dreams come true. Thinking of you all, especially at this time of year. Will hopefully speak to you all over Christmas but if not, know we are thinking of you.
Hope you like the presents Hasi & Steve. (Jules is particularly interested in Hasi's response to his gift).
Seasonal greetings and love to all
Moo xxxxx

my turn

Hi all, I suppose its my turn. I am still at work, no holidays for me yet. Everyone else in my house are on holidays, which makes it very hard to get up for work in the morning. Only two days to go. Kitchen is almost finished. Looking fab! We are waiting on the glass splashbacks which won't be in till mid January, no photos until all done. Also will need to paint. At the moment am slowly moving stuff back in and working out where to put everything. Of course our choir has been performing carols at the local nursing homes each weekend, we have two more to go this weekend, our neighbour across the road has also joined which gives us an extra voice.Had a few busy weeks at work, now we are a 7-12 school we have a year 10 and year 12 formal, (both last week, mon and wed) and two graduation ceremonies (one last Thurs and one last night), unfortunately the music teacher is kept busy at the graduation ceremonies and then needs to pack up at the end. Then of course there is all the end of year socialising and going out to dinner etc. Marty, I ordered your present yesterday and they were sending it today. You might get it before you leave, or when you get back. Hope you enjoy it. Moo, Steve got your parcel. Next week we have our traditional Kennedy drinks at our place on tuesday, then all the Kennedys will be coming to our place again Christmas Day. This year it will be quite a small gathering for the Kennedys-only 21. Jenny is spending Christmas in UK with Mark and Kelly and Greg and Bec and is heading to Scotland for the new year. Hopefully will talk to all of you Christmas Day, will have to get to Marty early while he can still speak! See you all, photos of new kitchen in Jan. Love Annie

Thanks Marty for the news; we lookforward to the photos. Let's hope you can put them on a bit better than me. Great to hear of your deputy posting in the new year; let's hope it will be confirmed after term 1.

Moo, the photographic evidence of Liam's greater height. When you were here Liam was not much higher than Fran's shoulder. Now he is a good 3cms above her.

The boat is on line on the "Trading Post" . The pictures have come up well. I have only one call so far when I was out and he hasn't rung back. It will be a sad parting.

Best Wishes to all.

Love Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

On Holidays

Hi All
Well day three of the holidays and I am back at work. Year 12 results are out today. The boss is really happy.... the results are really good. I'm taking the chance to catch up on the blog as I am computerless at the moment. During a thunderstorm the screen has gone a bit dodgy so it is in getting repaired and given that it is a school computer I'm not sure if I'll get it back over the holidays.

We had a big blow on the weekend. Over 500 mm of rain and winds almost up to 100km/h. We had two trees come down. A big African mahogany out the back and unfortnately the acacia on the front fence with the lovely yellow flowers. We have pruned it back however and stood it back up and hopefully it will recover. We were actually pretty lucky with the mahoganysomehow it missed the house and landed on the neighbours fence. I have cleaned it up and the neighbour and I have rebuilt the fence. The next job is to try and get rid of anything else that may come down in a cyclone. It was a good warning as to how much damage could be done and we got off relatively lightly, elsewhere trees landed on cars and houses and the low has moved to WA and become a catagory 4 cyclone.
If Claire brings her computer home tonight or tomorrow I will try to upload some photos.

Claire finishes up this Friday and we head off to Alice on Tuesday but should only be away for about a week. Then it will be sit back and enjoy the monsoon hopefully without any cyclones.

We have pulled our vegie garden out for the wet but we have planted a mango tree towards the front of the yard. And yes Zak we have bananas down near the front of the pool. Speaking of which, all the rain has started it going green so that will be a job to do before heading off.

Thats about all for now.

Cheers
Marty and Claire

Greetings to All,
No holidays in Wales either Kate. I have worked 4 shifts this week! (that's a lot for me). Hope you are recovering well Connor.
The Christmas gifts to Steve and Hasi were posted this week. Can you let us know if they arrive please. Nana should have received a birthday card by now as well.
Jules and I did our stint of filming again last week. It was cold and there was a lot of standing around. They should be just about finished all the filming by now and I didn't get to see Noah Taylor.
Had a good win in our darts this week. Seems my extra practice on a Sunday evening is paying off - and it's an enjoyable couple of hours in the pub.
Jules will be painting the ceiling in the front room today so we can move some furniture in and the house will look lived in again. Will post some photos if and when it happens.
Hope everyone enjoys their holidays. We will Kate when our time comes.
Take care and have fun xxxxx

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Im thinking it must be extremely hard labour to cut a tree down in the build up! you guys are amazing. My new frangapanis are just getting their first leaves, after being bare stumps for the last 18 months.The banana trees are starting to take off, have you planted any Mart? they would do well up there. Ive just delivered another beautiful fresh homegrown lettuce to mum and dad. What is the name of the lettuce mum keeps asking me. I dont know, it looks like a flower in full bloom, any takers? The tomatoes arent doing much yet, or any of the other veges for that matter, but patience is a virtue ( I think I missed out on that one.)
I so want to get started on the outdoor shower this weekend!
As usual everyone seems to be just about on holidays except me. Bumma! Never mind I'll save mine up for when Moo and I do our thing next year. Glad to hear you are getting some shifts now Moo to pay for our adventure.
Annie, are you interested in seeing Wicked in Jan when you come up? Fran says it fab! Let me know so we can try and get some tix, and what about the girls, I,ll shout them if they are keen.

Any takers for Moo and Jules free tix they won(oh shit how suprising!!) for the Illawarra folk festival. I have asked Jack, but have not heard anything back from him (how suprising) maybe I should have asked Fran, so something would be sorted out. If a pair of folks want them, I will work as volunteer, so will be there as well. If only one person is interested, I,ll use the 2nd tix. If no one is bloody interested, I'll sell them and still work as a volunteer. I think its around the 14th and 15th Jan.

Our nearly 80 year old dad had his first lot of acupuncture this week-how cool is that!
My new years resolution is to have a massage every fortnight! Prevention is better than cure, so said the community nurse to the surgeon. OK enough, Im starting to write complete shit.

That's it for now. Hope dad can get a more glamourous photo of me next time for the blog, I look like a garden gnome in the last one. Speaking of gardens, I have started my new pottery project-a totem pole for the garden. I have carved my first portion- a white bird, a beautiful mystical creature from the dreamtime that comes out at night. Amazingly,as I was about to start carving, an owl came into the garden of the studio where I was working. Ive been looking for an owl at night for ages! Its the simple things in life.

Thats really it. Love to you all,
Zak

Greg marries

Marty was able to ring Greg before his wedding and wish him well. I have his email address but my emails cannot get through even though Dorothy's have got through. I caught up with Marg who showed me the pictures of the week she had with Greg. I took a couple to enter here after I had scanned them. I can't get the scanner to work-would you believe! Moo suggested I take a photo of the photos which I have done. They are not as clear as I would like -but it captures the occasion. Congratulations Greg and AnneMarie. The photos are not as sharp as they could be. Marg was very taken with this church when she visited Greg last year. It is completely decorated with shells.

Katie spent her usual Friday with us and I captured her enjoying her day. What a way to spend your day off! Thanks Katie.

Holidays are looming. Some have already started- Tom and Lucy- and Connor has a forced start after a short trip to Penrith Hospital. Hope all plans for the holidays come to fruition.

Best wishes to all. Keep cool -the Aussie contingent; Keep warm in Wales.

Kevin and Joan.

Greetings from Wales!

Hi All
I managed to post nothing for the whole of November, which is quite amazing because a few things were going on.
Jules and I had our first experience of being "extras" in a film called Submarine. We are booked to do another shift tomorrow. Was an interesting experience. Unfortunately, it was at night and quite cold. Tomorrow is looking like being even colder. First day of winter has hit with a vengeance.
Have been getting regular work so the savings are being boosted once more.
A couple of weeks ago i saw Andy Fairweather Low at our local Arts Centre. (Google him). He has worked with George Harrison, Eric Clapton and is an awesome entertainer himself. Fantastic night! This week a guy called Gwyn Ashton is performing in a local club. He is billed as aWelsh born Australian and apparently plays great blues. Will let you know, I hope.
Last week I was in the Grand theatre in Swansea to see a locally written musical called Cappucino Girls which was agreat production. I won two tickets for the show so my friend Louise came with me. Traffic and parking in Swansea was horrible but it was worth it to see the performance.
Last night the christmas lights were turned on in Alltwen. a big event for our small village by all accounts. Unfortunately, I was at work and missed all the excitement!?
Had a fantastic day in Cardiff on Saturday when I went up, with Louise and her husband Chris, to see Australia beat Wales in the rugby. It was good to see Australia perform better than in the recent past. Consumed more alcohol than I should have but had a fabulous day and lived to tell the tale. Louise treartd our hangovers by cooking a fantastic roast dinnerfor Jules and I on Sunday evening. YUM.
Tuesday today so darts tonight. I bought new darts recently and have been playing better for it.
Nana is 102 years tomorrow. We send our regards for the occassion. haven't sent a card yet but will do it today. Don't suppose she'll notice if it's a few days late - I'll just earn Kev some brownie points!
Hope all are well and happy. Christmas gifts for Hasi and Steve going in the post this week - Don't open until Christmas!
Take care and have fun xxxxxx

Just bloody slack

Hi All

Well you guessed it i have just been too bloody slack. Three weekends ago we chopped down a huge frangapani out the back that was covered in bouganvillia and i have tried to download the photos from the camera but it just hasn't worked.

The year 11s are finished at school so my job is slowly starting to wind down for the year which is good. two weeks left of school and then holidays. Claire works for another week after me and then we have four weeks off together. The plan is to wizz down to Alice for Christmas, have christmas with the boys and then come back up to enjoy the wet season. It's real "build up" weather at the moment...it feels like about 99% humidity all the time.....your body and cloths are constantly wet....other than that it's lovely.

I think my old 250 (you know mum the one that sat in the shed at 39 for ages) I think has finally died today. I am just waiting for Claire to get home so we can pick it up in the trailer. It's a bit sad as i reckon I've had it for close to 25 years. Anyway we will se what the verdict is when we get it home.

Thats about it for now. Love Marty and Claire

More of Bathurst

Zacky gave a comprehensive account of the weekend so I won't bore you further except to add that the wedding was a classic. Anne W baked the wedding cake and I can't remember a more delicious fruit cake.

I spent an hour with Beth and Dave on Saturday. They treated me to the usual Iso hospitality.Dom and Amanda made a great couple. Maria A did us proud. Jack and Fran's place is coming on a treat. Tom, Liam (has shot up 15 cms), and Connor are planning their Christmas holidays.

When Murray G and I finished golf this morning a fellow member said " That grin on your face indicates a good game" Murray a staunch Labor man said to me. "That has nothing to do with golf. It will be weeks before my grin is wiped off -not while the Libs are self destructing".

Love to All Dad/Tjilpi/Old man/Kev.

greetings from the south coast

Hi All,
Everyone lazy or just busy?
Last weekend mum dad and I had a road trip to Bathurst! Friday night we had dinner with Maria and her gorgeous men, giving mum and dad the royal treatment as she always does.
Saturday mum and dad did the big wedding gig of Dom W. and his bride Amanda.
Maria, Jerome and I hit the op shops of Bathurst. Boy do I love a country op shop, and I must say, Jerome is showing a great deal of potential, with a very good eye for treasures and bargain hunting.
Satuday arvo I spent at the art gallery where there was an exhibition of several local artists, and an amazing library of art books which I enjoyed.
Needless to say it was also one of the coolest places in town to hang out as the outside temp was somewhere in the high 30's, with a hot wind blowing. God I hate a westerly wind.
I did manage a stroll in the central park later in the afternoon followed by cheap chinese and a cold beer, and was asleep by 7pm!
Sunday we said our goodbyes to Maria and Jerome(Kevin was off partying somewhere) and made it to Glenbrook for a late lunch with Jack and his mob.
Fran is up to the final touches of the interior decorating of the kitchen area, with some amazing art/craft work she has done herself. She's pretty clever, with a great eye for detail.
We were all home safely sunday evening after a great weekend.
Otherwise its work, yoga, beach and garden. The bamboo is out in force again especially in the property behind us, owned by a 90 something year old woman, so we will get in there this weekend and try and get it a bit under control. That bastard who planted that bamboo, if I ever meet him, he will get a piece of my mind, and if I have the good fortune to meet him in a dark alley even better! (as if)
Thats it for now. Get the billy on, as dad should be home from golf any time now.
Love to you all, whatever you are doing
Zak

Hi All

I've just done a Katie -spent half an hour posting a blog and lost it. Here we go again.

I was the lucky one to see Annie's musical. You should have seen the look she threw the control room when the lights came on during the lead role singing the best song of the musical. There was a fire alarm and we had to vacate the premises. As Annie says "We will all remember the first night". I would have loved to have snapped that look but you'll have to be satisfied with a shot of Annie and one with her and the band.

Congratulations Lucy on your leadership role.

Head down Liam and Lucy as you gear up for your HSC year.

Best wishes Tom in your exams. You have worked hard -enjoy the results.

We're looking forward to seeing Moo and Jules in their walk on part of the crowd in Submarine.

Love Dad/Tjilpie/Old Man/Kev.

news from the capital

I suppose if Marty has finally put something on, So should I. Well the musical is finally over!! No more afternoon or weekend rehearsals, in fact I don't know what to do with myself as I am getting home before 5.30 this week. It was great that Dad made the trip to see it. The show got rave reviews from all the staff and even the writer came down and enjoyed it. We are now picking next year's musical as the boss loved it so much we reckon we'll get whatever we want next year! It was certainly difficult doing a cross campus musical but I think it was worth it as the kids loved it.

Steve and I had a great time at the musical even though it rained again. However next year the organiser has decided to move it to Bateman's Bay. Don't know whether we will go, I think it will be very different and I think it will be more like Byron Blues festival which has a lot of big international and local acts and not so many of the smaller and less well known acts that we all love to Narooma to see.

Lucy got house captain of her house Irin Irin, it's sort of like a senior prefect and she is on the leadership team for next year. We are all very proud of her.

Our new kitchen is booked in for the 9 Dec, apparently it will only take three days, as there isn't any real renovations or building that needs doing. All they really have to do is rip the old one out and put the new one in. Am looking forward to having a beautiful new kitchen for the new year.

Marty, did you get my text message about running into Diana Harvey. She told me I had to say hello to you. She hasn't changed a bit still gorgeous. Her daughter is a brilliant violinist and also sings and plays piano.

That's about all for now. No musical in the near future so hopefully won't be too long before my next post. Love to all, Annie

News from the Top End

Hi All

I keep waiting for something exciting to happen to write about but things have been pretty same same for a while. Lana went back to Germany and we really enjoyed having her. I have been flat out at work getting ready for the end of the year. Claire did her exam on Monday so her study is finished for the year. Only one unit to go and she has her degree.

It has now rained three nights in a row which is great. Tomorrow night we go and watch Randal perform in his school's end of year show. Apparently he is very talented. Clancy (although he calls himself Mario now) has moved up from Qld and is a keen as fisho which is handy because Joes boat has arrived and its flaaaaash. He dropped in last Sunday after him and the boys took it out for it's first spin.

Only 4 weeks to go till the end of the school year. Claire finishes up on th 18th and we go to Alice to catch up with the boys. We then head straight back to Darwin to enjoy a couple of weeks of hanging around home together.

I think Buddy grew another brain cell the other day as he seems to have stopped chewing up thongs (touch wood). He seems to be coping better with the thunderstorms than our poor Lucy.

I will try and post more often even if it is just an update.

Love
Marty and Claire

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Well this is a first, that Im signed in again before anyone else.
They say(whoever they are) that no news is good news, so I suppose everyone is just busy.
It was great to spend the day in Newtown and Marrickville on Saturday. Lots of great coffee and food and just watching the world go by. Shopping was pretty pathetic but thats a saving in itself.
The days are getting longer, and its gorgeous to have time in the garden at the end of a working day. The girls are in trouble today as there was only one egg, but as I told Hasi, everyone has their off days. (he should well and truely know that after living with me for so long)
I have already been asked by several interested women, about the events of the big 80th birthday next year People are talking of a gathering to top the 70th! Can we do it??
Thats it from me.
Love to you all, Zak

greetings from the south coast-again

Hi all,
Just wrote a whole heap, and it has vanished into the universe. Such a computer wizz!!
Oh well..
Thanks Moo, mum and I have just been checking out your latest welsh treasure-fab colours.
Last Saturday, I spent the arvo at Gerrigong with the Cowra Iso girls. They had come together for a few days and had invited me to share some time with them. It was a great arvo. They are all gorgeous woman, and have a great energy together.
Before Gerrigong, I spent the morning strolling round Berry. I bought 2 brand new items of clothing at a total cost of $100!! I dont know what came over me. No doubt I'll be wearing them till they fall apart.
I must be on a roll, as next Saturday, Im finally going to get myself to Newtown, and maybe even Glebe markets!!
Good luck with the musical this week Annie. I know it is going to be fantastic(even without the radio microphones)Im glad dad got sorted to be there, however you know we are all with you in spirit, and impatiently await the release of the video.
Yesterday was 34degrees, and today is 24. Its the mad before christmas weather that we get every year, that no one ever seems to remember, except me.
I did my 3rd 6am class of cardiac boxing today. Shoudn't my arms be looking different by now??No whales today.
Mums done the sudoku and is trying the "not so quick crossword."
I think I'll take a stroll to vinnies before the rain sets in for the arvo.
If you are reading this for the second time, my first effort must have found its way to the blog.
Hope all's well with everyone,
Love to you all, Zak

Welsh Greetings

Hi All.
Thanks Kev for posting the Christmas list. We have started to think about a few things for Hasi and Steve, but if there's anything you particularly want from Wales/UK boys, let us know.
No real news to tell. I have worked only 2 shifts in the last month. Had an annoying cough that wouldn't shift, and now I have a snotty nose to add to it. I'm sick of being sick. Louise is having a party for Halloween tonight and there's good music in the pub, and I'll be at home with my box of tissues. Fortunately, Jules has not got it from me (I'm not sharing).
Hope all are well in the land of Aus. Take care. xxxx

Christmas List

Here Goes

Kevin buys for Kate
Joan buys for Julian
John buys for Maureen
Fran buys for Claire
Martin buys for Anne
Claire buys for Fran
Kate buys for Kevin
Hasi buys for John
Anne buys for Martin
Stephen buys for Joan
Maureen buys for Hasi
Julian buys for Stephen.

Best Wishes and enjoyable shopping

Dad.

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Thanks dad for those gorgeous photos of our home. It really does look great. Im thinking that brick shed really does need an awning over it, it is so bloody ugly. Will definitely look better after I mosaic it. What a beautiful relaxing day we had together, with in house entertainment from Mrs Pong, Mona and Lisa.
We've been working and hanging in the garden. Hasi has mulched all the front lawn, so a bit less mowing-yahoo!, He's back at work yesterday after a very cruisey fortnights break. He celebrated his 48th birthday with several of our friends on the 10th. A good night, but I was dragging people out the door at 4.30am, so next time there's going to be a curfew. No police and no complaints from the neighbours which was good.
Moo we are talking about Germany next July- where will you be? Im still keen on our plan of Spain, Portugal and Majorca but I could be pushing my luck. However, with winning the lottery just arond the corner, the world could be our oyster-whatever that means.
Thanks to Liam for our Blue View News. Liam that editorial was brilliant! You are clever.
Thats it from me,
Love to all, Zak

Woonoona

Hi All,

Kate drove Joan & I to Mountain Ave yesterday wondering what would be Mum's reaction to the purple house. Mum thought it was great and Kate was delighted with her response.

We walked through the side gate to a wonderland of vintage Kate. Any resemblance to the bamboo ridden yard of first occupation does not exist.

Hasi and Joan had an enjoyable but frustrating time trying to unravel the "target word" while I successfully studied the form for the Caulfield Cup, then relaxed.

Here's the photographic evidence. They appear in reverse order. I hope you enjoy them because it has been a nerve-wracking hour or two to get around these complicated instructions.

Love Grandma and Tjilpi

Greetings from Wales!

Hi All
Hope everyone has enjoyed the holidays. They must be very exciting as no-one has time to post to the blog. Looking forward to hearing all about what has been happening.
I have been quite busy. Last week I had a "ladies lunch" with Louise, Laura and Bree. Met about 1.30p.m. and got home just after midnight. Very enjoyable. (Laura and Bree left us about 7.15).
On Saturday I had a lovely day out in Cardiff. Louise, Pam & I caught a train from Neath about 1145. Had our first pint at 1330. Lunch in the Bay, a wander around the sights of the Bay, a couple of quiet drinks then back to cardiff central for a couple of drinks, a bit of food and on a train just after 10p.m. Stopped in the local (The Gwyn) for one or two on the way home. Another very relaxed, enjoyable day out.
Jules & I went to Pembrokeshire earlier this week to see the baby seals. we were very lucky to see 16 seals in one bay. Fabulous! We were there in the early evening and had the path virtually to ourselves. It was a beautiful afternoon and well worth the drive. Slept in the van overnight and had a scenis drive back the following day.
Jules is progressing well with the floor and we have been looking for tiles for the entrance. Today he has been cutting skirting. It will be painted before it goes on the walls.
Tonight I collect Gen from the bus station at Port Talbot so she can spend the weekend with us. It will be great to hear all her stories of London life and catch up on the gossip. I take her back to the bus about 4p.m. on Sunday - just in time to get back for sunday evening in the Gwyn.
Have had a persistant cough for the last week or so, so have not been working. Will hopefully get back to work next week. need to get back to the gym also as I have also not been there whilst coughing.
Hope everyone is well and happy. Thinking of you all. Take care and have fun. xxxxxxx

Holidays....what news?

Thanks Lana for your contribution. What a great photo of you holding up the sun. I'm sure you will persevere watching until you see the gecko fly through the air to catch an insect. You will no doubt have stories from the Kakadu when you return. Marty's nephews and nieces should have some holiday jottings for us all to enjoy.
Annie is back preparing her musical. I hope I can get to Canberra to see it.
Anxiously waiting for holiday jottings.
Love to all. Dad/Tjilpi/Old man/Kev.

More news from Darwin

Hello Marty's Family : )
I am Lana, i'm 15 years old and I live for three weeks with Marty and Claire. Its the first time that I am in Australia, and I think that its one of the most beautiful places in the world. Today I saw my first 'Darwin sunset' and it was very very pretty, and I was very impressed;)
Hmm what else can I say.. I think its very interesting that your family lives at so many different places, and I think this Blogg is a very good idea.
so, the most time I get eaten by Buddy or I sit outside and wait that the Geckos from the ceiling fall down (claire told me that they wouldt do this to eat insects) but-i dont know why- they dont want to fall down. So, please prey for me that they will, to make my stay in australia perfect ;)

Cheers, Lana

Darwin Doodlings III

Missed a couple of days! Was I too upset about the cakes?
We had a cake of our own with lashings of cream and then brought the other half home after a sumptuous meal prepared by Sabina the leg of lamb done on the spit on a special Greek BBQ which chappy had bought and used especially for us. Marty and I had caught several fish in one of the local creeks but Claire & Marty can have them later on.
The wattle only lasted 2 days so my continuing photographic work ceased.
Had my usual pilgimage to the Marist Brothers this afternoon. Br Oliver -95 in October- is the oldest Brother in the Melbourne province. He is not too sure what happened yesterday but could remember the Mittagong days of the forties and in quite detail.
Chappy is picking us up at 6am to spend a day on the water at Corroboree water hole down near Kakadu. Will tell you all about it later. WillI catch my first legal sized barra?
Will there be some left overs from your exotic cooking when I get home Annie?
Love to all Dad.

dad's miised out on some good cakes!

Hi everybody. Canberrans are visiting 39. Steve and the girls go home tomorrow, I will stay till Thursday then head home by train. Had to bring Lucy's birthday cake which was a three layer cake with cream and very rich frosting. Kate also made a chocloate cake for Lucy. Without Tjilpi here we have had to eat them both. I almost took a photo of them for you Dad. On friday steve and I head to Narooma for the blues festival. We went last year and are staying in same place about 50 metres from the venue can go home to the loo and not have to use yucky portaloos! Am extremly excited as there are some great bands playing, and hopefully the weather will be kinder to us than it was last year. then another week off and back to school to prepare for musical in week 4. Have spent alot of sleepless nights worrying as we are behind in our rehearsals. We are aiming to work the kids hard with extra rehearsals as well as weekends. hopefully we will get there. the band is great as the kids I picked are probably the best musicians in the school. Hoping to hire mics at at good rate from our chairman of the board who just happens to own a sound and lighting company. Anyway will report next week and have some photos from the blues festival. Annie

Darwin Doodlings II

Hi All
What a great snap of the girls! Who won the scrabble?
Kate, we tried to ring on Friday night as Marty texted you Saturday...Marty's got the social calendar so full that it was too late to ring when we got home.
Four trips to the tip today after clearing the forest corner-partly. We took Claire on trip 3 and spent some time in the recycle shop-Marty says you loved it, Kate.
We had a trip to Buffalo Creek this afternoon- a very low tide so there was no boating or fishing activity.
More flowering of the acacia but again Marty is having difficulty transferring the photos.
Not a lot of mosaicing has gone on...we have a photographic record.
Hope the champagne did not cause an override in the train on the way home, Kate
Marty & Claire are in the pool now....I'll have my session a bit later. More later.
Love Dad and the Darwin connection.

I'm A Big Smart Ass

Scrabble...whooo

greetings from the female quarters

Hi All,
Knew I'd get something from the top end.Good to know you can write dad, because we thought you may have forgotten your own phone number. Mum and I have had a quiet weekend together, but not for too much longer, as we are expecting the canberra crew to turn up at any time now. Great to hear you are in the pool dad-it really is irresistable I know.
Take photos of the garden dad so I can see whats going on. And any mosaicing??
Amazing what love can do! I have remembered how to bake and have a chocolate cake ready for Lucy and Clare when they arrive!! So impressed with myself.
Better get round to the bottle shop for the champagne, for an arvo drink in the garden-we know you will be with us in spirit with that one Claire. (yep I know, Moo and Fran as well)
Enjoy the holiday Mart, Im back to work tomorrow-bumma.
Love to all,
Zak.
p.s.Mum would send greetings, except she is too busy doing the "Hyper"

Darwin Doodlings

Marty & Claire met me at the airport, dropped in to greet and meet Buddy, unloded my gear and went off for drinks, nibblies and pizza at an Alice friends while I watched the footy.A beautiful flowering acacia greeted us this morning (picture won't come out). Claire says it has a way to go so I'll take progressive shots.
The pool was great this morning while Marty & Claire took Buddy walking.
Marty & I drank,ate footy food while we watched the AFL grand final in air conditioned comfort at Chappy's. Kate, that computer has a few querks, You're lucky it reproduced the text, I usually have to do it all again. Lucky you weren't trying to send photos.
A lovely sizzling BBQed steak has just been prepared. More later.
Love Dad.

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
I returned yesterday from a week in Tonga with Jane C. and 2 other female pals from the south. What a beautiful place. So slow and easy, and the people so friendly and warm. Not one set of traffic lights in the country and speed limit of 50km/hr. Its the kingdom of the friendly islands. Hanging out in the sun, swimming, snorkelling, reading, a drop of kava and lots of chatter and lots of laughs! How lucky am I??

A quick stop in with my sweet heart last night, and now the weekend with mum. Dad has taken off for Darwin. How many games of scrabble can we squeeze in? In fact as I write this, dad is probably almost hitting the tarmac!! Maybe Mart will take a few more photos while dads there than he did while I was there, and we can all enjoy them on the blog.

Well I wrote the above on Friday night.It is now Saturday evening. I still dont know what I did or did not do but I completely lost this blog last night, but when I have just turned the machine back on just now, it appearred.
Actually I think I might just flick this much off before something else weird happens.
Love Zak

Happy Belated Birthday Thomas

Greetings to all but especially birthday greetings to Tom.We didn't forget it was your birthday (in fact, I had a drink for you), but we were away from the house so I couldn't phone or e-mail.
We went to a mini festival further up the valley. It was tha Owain Glyndwr festival and also incorporates a real ale festival. Some friends of ours were there so we spent the weekend (or the majority of it) enjoying the festivities. What a birthday party it was Tom!
Things have been fairly quiet here otherwise. No work about for me. Jules is still working on the floor. Don't know when he'll acyually start laying it!
Kate should be having a fabulous time at the moment. Dad will be getting ready for his trip to the North. Marty will be preparing the fishing gear for his visit. Unfortunately, we have no immediate travel plans.
No real news from this end. Thinking of you all.
Love Moo xxxxxx

Greetings from Wales

Hi All
Great to have a post from Clare recently. Shame your cousins in Glenbrook don't follow. Mart you've been busy with visitors. Hopefully we will be added to that list the next time we are in Aus.
We are in a house full of dust at present while Julian levels off the cement floor in our downstairs ready to lay the wood. It will be full on cleaning once it is laid. Then we need to decide where to put the furniture, and, Mum, where to hang the pictures!
The Pontardwe festival was much reduced this year. There was, as always, some great music in the main tent but the number of stalls and the other music around the field was paltry. There were many mumblings of discontent and the weather didn't help much. Wellies an essential fashion item on the field. There was a programme on the Welsh channel about the festival which I have recorded and will send the DVD to Kate if anyone is interested in seeing it. (I am shown at a distance twice).
Next week Jules and I are away. We have a caravan in New Quay (West Wales not Cornwall) from Monday to Friday. Hope the weather improves, although I have bought Jules some wet weather gear so he can go fishing even if it rains. I have several books to take.
Next weekend Bree is to be christened. I have invited Gen down for the weekend but have not yet heard if she wants to come.
Had a lengthy e-mail from one of the friends we met in Cobargo. I have to sit down later today and send a reply. It was great to hear the news from there. Brought back great memories of our week we spent there.
Have to finish up as it's nearing the time to get to the gym! You won't recognise me next time you see me - I wish!
Hope everyone is well and happy. Take care and have fun. Look forward to reading updates soon!
Love and hugs Moo xxxx

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
We have just spent the weekend at cunjurong!! As beautiful and special as always, we are so lucky to be able to share that great place. The garden didnt perish without any attention for a weekend, in fact everything is almost in bloom, and Im getting excited watching it each day. Moo, the flannel flowers are just about out as are the proteas. What a beautiful space we are creating.
Liam what sort of fairy god mother am I, not even contacting you for your birthday, not that you are not with me in my heart always. So I hope you had a great day, and I m sure your mum cooked up some fantastic treat for you.
Clare how did you stop talking for 40 hours?? I know Id have to be stuck out in the desert alone to acheive that with my mouth gaffa taped.
Sounds like Darwin is the hip place to be, and I know because I am always before the fashion.
1st day of spring today. The mermaids were calling me at Cunj clare and I got in as far as my thighs, but they couldnt entice me further just yet, but it wont be too long before Im frolicking in the sea again! The lake is ever changing-it has created a separate little pool, just as you come down the track and hit the beach- nature is an amazing thing.
Thats it for now, have to check out a web site on lanimex for the bathroom.
Mart did you use those tiles for mosaicing yet?
Love to you all,
Zak

And the visitors just keep coming

After Zak and Skinny we had Will for three weeks of trade school and another one of his mates for two weeks. Tomorrow night Claire's mum Shirley arrives for a week. Well.......Tjilpi???????

We love having visitors. It's a good excuse to do all the touristy things that you wouldn't do otherwise.

Buddy is growing......but not his brains.

Zak we cut down the dead mango. It was riddled with termites another perpetual hazard of the top end.

The weather is just starting to get that hint of humidity in it so the first showers shouldn't be far away.

Went fishing last weekend up a new creek I am exploring but with a 7 metre tide I ended up stranded behind a rock bar for a couple of hours. Lucky I had the aerogard.

Not much more to mention. Work is keeping me pretty busy. Ten hour days don't leave much time for anything else. However I have added a piccy from the science lab I teach out of. if you click on it to enlarge it you will see its another one of the low tides.

Love to you all

Marty and Claire

Only $50

Clare! Only $50 for you to be silent for 40 hours!
What a tremendous effort. You should have asked Grandma and me to contribute. The homeless people will be very proud of you.
You were such a hit in your musical that your mother is talking about you changing schools so you can take a leading role in her musical.

Liam, Moo never forgets and we all join in her Greetings to you.

Love to All Tjilpi.

Hi everyone

Hey,
Mum is bugging me saying i never write anything on the blog so i am posting this. I have just finished the forty hour famine, where i gave up talking for forty hours (very hard!) and raised $50 for homeless children overseas. I have also recently been in the orchestra for our school musical, The Sound Of Music, and completed six shows after three months of practice. It was really fun, more fun than being in the orchestra in year seven for Oliver, so i am trying to catch up on sleep after many late nights.
Talk to you all soon, hopefully.
Clare

Happy Birthday Liam

Birthday Greetings to Liam from beautiful Wales. This is your birthday card from Jules and me. I have been working tonight and will be back in tomorrow so this was the easiest way to send birthday greetings. Hope you have a fabulous day. We are thinking of you.
Loads of love and hugs, Moo & Jules xxxxxx

NEWS from Kev

Rare Birds is the dress shop at Wentworth Falls run by Lindy, Sally and Jane Iso visited by Joan, Lady Kate, Aunty Kate and me on Friday August 7. Jane was tending the shop while Sally was at the Leura shop. Kate bought a pair of pink and white flowers slacks - quite dashing really. We then visited Lindy at her house which overlooks a gully and the Charles Darwin walk.

I attempted to put this blog up under the heading "Rare Birds" pressed the wrong button and the blog was posted with no text. (One day I will get the hang of these computers) I'll post a couple of photos of the day. Kate is standing outside the shop and inside with Jane. The sun was beaming into Lindy's place so she pulled down the shade but you can still see the bushy valley behind. The eight Ron Iso girls are having their girlie week at Geroa in October and have invited Kate down for it. I wonder will they have a rendering of "Chirpy, Chirpy, Cheep, Cheep" sometime for old times sake.

Best Wishes to all......Kev

Rare Birds

Hi All

A good joke

Ange Arrow sent me this joke and I thought I should share it.
Hope you get a laugh out of it.

I was in the pub yesterday when I suddenly realized I desperately needed to fart.
The music was really, really loud, so I timed my farts with the beat.
After a couple of songs, I started to feel better. I finished my pint and noticed that everybody was staring at me.
Then I suddenly remembered that I was listening to my iPod.

Hi All
Just a quick entry to say "hello". Hope everyone is well and happy. Great kilt Steve. I've been trying to get Jules into one for years but he won't be in it.
We finally have a bit of summer-ish weather here.
Had a leak from our toilet last week which showed itself by water dripping through the ceiling by the fireplace - just above where we have all our new wooden flooring for the room. Luckily, we noticed it early enough to prevent too much damage. The flooring was safe and we just now have a water mark on the ceiling. Could have been much worse if it had gone on overnight.
The birthday celebrations start at 1640 today as I was born at 0140 in Australia. If the weather holds, we are hoping to head off to West Wales after lunch to spend the evening and most of Tuesday by the beach. Have to be about in the morning for my usual champagne breakfast.
Happy Birthday to Me!
Enjoying the 4th test this week. Shame the Wallabies didn't do as well against the Springboks yesterday. The test at the Oval should be a good one.
Take care. Bye for now. xxxxxxxxxx

Greetings from the south coast

I love a man in a dress!! How does he go with a halter neck frock? Looks like it was a great party.
I really have nothing of any interest to write, so love to you all.
Cheers Zak
P.S.Happy Birthday Moo for Monday!! (starting Sunday arvo with sekt)

Party Weekend in the Capital

Who'd be surprised that we had a great time at "The Great Wedding" ? Nobody has sent us any pics of the beautiful bride and her groom, just ones trying to embarass us. So here's Annie playing it up for the camera with some other Kennedy girls - unusual ( ? ) and me dancing in my new party outfit with Jess, my niece.
cheers
Steve

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
Well what a shock to the system after wearing singlet and shorts, and swimming for a week in Darwin to get back to winter. Huge thanks to Mart and Claire for a wonderful week, I truly loved every minute of my time there! Im planning my next trip up with Moo and Jules next year if I dont get there before that. Im trying to persuade Hasi to go up for a year to work, but he's turned into a loyal Illawarra local!
My head and heart are in a much better shape after my trip, and I wont be leaving it for 5 months again before I have a break.In fact we were just tossing around a few ideas for a break in October...
Yes Annie Mum and I had a small soiree with the Salisbury girls while dad was galavanting up the north coast. It was a noisy night of laughter and chatter.
We have almost finished painting the outside of the house thanks to a grand effort by Hasi in his holidays. We started in december 2007, so the great thing is, in less that 2 years we are almost done!
Moo, Im sorry the summer isnt great in Wales, but the good thing about it is, Jules might be more keen to come to Oz in June/July?? even the water temperature is 18degrees! Im keeping my ears open for house minding, and Darwin is divine that time of year!
Enough, Ive got to make a cuppa a get settled for Grand Design- Claire hope you are still hooked, how was that amazing tyre house?
Love to you all
Zak

From the Top End

Hi All

I did a post the other night and managed to lose it all when trying to edit photos. Moo you're not the only one with floor problems. I managed to put my foot through the floor just outside our kitchen. Luckily Joe was available to get us out of the poo.....again.

It was a great months break. First Zac and the Skinny and later Robin. Skinny and I spent about 4 days out at Red Lily Billabong. I love going to places in kakadu where no one else goes. Skinny caught his first barra and later managed to bag an 80cm.

Unfortunately on the way home I managed to do two tyres which was a real shit as with only one spare I had to hitchhike 120km get a new tyre and hitch back. But you have to love our locals....... one who lived at Corroboree dropped a loaf of bread into his home and then took me the extra 70 kays to where Skinny was patiently waiting.

I have started my new job at Darwin High School. Petty hectic but it's good to be working with kids again. Buddy is getting bigger....and bigger ....and bigger. Will arrived yesterday for three weeks of trade school ( and so did one of his mates Josh) so we are bound to have some fun over the next couple of weekends.

Cheers
Marty

Greetings from wales

Hi All
Thanks Kev for posting my photo. I am having trouble with my computer and can't post photos until it is sorted. Have a few more photos I wanted to post but they will have to wait.
The day at the cricket was fabulous! We had a good spot - midway between the Fanatics and the Barmy Army. We were entertained by their banter as well as the action on the field. Well done to little Ricky Ponting for making 150. Hope our boys do better in the third test.
Jules has been doing some work on the house. He is trying to finish the room downstairs that you enter the house into. We looked at some flooring this week. Just need to spend some money now. I have had a good bit of work lately so we can afford a floor. Will make a huge difference to the house to have that done.
Not much else been happening here. The weather has been awful for summer - no surprise there. I have finally made a push back to the gym. Have been three times this week. Just need to keep it up. Hope everyone is well and happy.
Love to all. xxxx

Moo at the Cricket

Hi All,

Moo had her big day at the cricket at Cardiff where she desperately tried to catch the cameraman's attention. I watched till tea time on the day but she hadn't appeared. She took a photo and emailed it to me. Mum is so impressed that she wants it as our screen saver.

Marty has promised a few photos of his trip to the Kakadu with Luke. Jack and Fran and the boys are enjoying a week at Hat Head. Will they get any fish to brag about? Ron and I had a successful couple of days at Grafton for the Ramournie and the Cup. We won a horse in the Calcutta at the pub at which we stayed. The train trip up and back was long (10 hrs) but enjoyable and relaxing. Annie had a great couple of days with Mum. Kate organised a girlies' night with Aunty Kate, Brigid and Clare while Anne was here. I enjoyed cleaning up the left overs when I returned.

Hope you like the Moo photo. Notice the hat from the Cobargo Festival.

Love Kevin.

news from the capital

Hi all, will attempt to write something at 10.40 and after drinking white then red wine. I know its been a while but as there are a few teachers and one old retired one contributing you will know that the past few weeks have been a bugger. Went to wagga for a weekend (dads birthday) with the Da Rozas. We hadnt seen them for ages so we spent the weekend eating (of course!) and catching up. Stayed in a great place, Mum and Kate checked it out on the net. I didnt realise there was so much to do there. spent all day Saturday wandering, morning was the shops then the afternoon was spent at the art gallery, the glass gallery -absolutely amazing stuff and of course the museum. Had a great dinner with a dessert lovers dream (I wonder who the dessert lover could be!) three desserts on one plate, and the dessert lover didnt share with anyone. Sunday went to the Charles Sturt winery where we bought a few (12) bottles of wine. So we did spend Kevin Rudds money stimulating waggas economy. Unfortunately the weekend was over too soons and was back to work and reports. I then went to Brisbane on the first weekend of July for an IB (International baccalaureate) conference. Best PD Ive been on in years learnt heaps, but really full on , 8.30-4.30m for three days. Great food too ,I think Ii put on about five kilos in three days. Caught up with a friend from Bel canto (my choir) who left Canberra to go home to Brisbane. Hadnt seen her for 12 years. We had a great night, and she hasnt changed a bit. But then I had to come home for a PD on the first day of holidays. I think I slept a lot down the back. Rest of week spent going shopping. The girls were babysitting Clare and colins kids tues, wed thurs so Steve and I went out for lunch a couple of days as well as shopping. (Steve loved that!) Am headed for Sydney on monday to spend a week with Mum. My wonderful father (thanks again Dad) is picking me up from Strathfield station so I dont have to go all the way to Central and is dropping me back there sat morning for the early train. I will cook you dinner in Sydney to say thanks, dad. Have lots of musical stuff to read through and listen to the CD as we start to go into musical mode as soon as we get back to school. Am putting on a musical in term 4 so it will be go go go once I get back to school (who needs lunch anyway). Thats about it from me, of course I 'm looking forward to seeing Kate next week, looking forward to our girl 's night on thursday. I 'll have the champagne chilled. Moo did you watch torchwood children of the earth. Clare is in mourning over the death of Ianto. Marty. congrats on the new job hope youre having a great holiday. sounds like you and Claire had a good time with Kate. Hi Claire, are you enjoying the tour we're watching it right now and every night we watch it I think of you. I think thats finally it. will sign off now and finish my glass of red.

More from the Top

Hi all,

Moo, I think you really have seen all of Wales now, Yes? Glad that the weather was good for your travels. What a piss off about Hayfever season starting again. I'll never forget that first summer I was there, my heart really goes out to you. Does that mean that local honey, is an urban myth?
Sunday evening and I have just returned from a walk with Buddy dog. Mart and Claire have friends from Alice here for dinner, so I'll give them time to catch up, while I write a few lines.
Today we went out in the harbour in the boat. Absolutely beautiful, the water was glassy, and there were only about another 3 boats in the harbour, nothing like the Georges river on a sunday dad. Mart and Claire had a bit of a fish-no luck, but I just took it all in.
The tides here are amazing. Of course Mart's got all the gadgets for the boat, even this thing that measures the depth of the water, which isnt a bad idea, when the tide starts going out. We went from 3metres deep to 1.2metres in about 20metres up one of the arms of the harbour.
I better sign off and go out and join the mob outside.
Cia for now, Zak

Welsh Greetings

Isn't it great to read what's happening in the top end. It sounds like a great holiday and I will be booking a flight when I'm in Aus next year! Can't wait.
Jules and I have also been on holiday. We spent the last 4 nights in North Wales. Travelled up on Monday, taking a leisurely way through Mid Wales to reach our destination - Prestatyn. On Tuesday we checked out Rhyl - truly tacky tourism, a bit of a mini Blackpool. Had a few bargains in the op shops though. We then went east of Prestatyn to Holywell and visited St. Winifride's Well - a beautiful, peaceful spot for our picnic. Our return trip was along the"coast" which is actually the river Dee.
Wednesday we travelled to Conwy and crossed the Suspension Bridge, walked the town walls and visited the Smallest House. Then we went on to Llandudno, the reason I wanted to go to North Wales. It is a fabulous Victorian holiday town, beautiful architecture, a long, flat promenade by the shore and a magnificent pier.
Couldn't see it all in the time we had so we returned on Thursday. Stopped at a smaller seaside town, Rhos-on-Sea, on the way. They had a St. Vincent de Paul op shop. Not many of those here. Back in Llandudno we drove around the Great Orme, a stunning drive, and went to the top of the Great Orme also. Of course, we also had to visit the eight op shops the town has, a bit pricey though. We were very fortunate with the weather during our stay.
Had to leave our accommodation on Friday morning. We had planned to go via the west and climb Cader Idris but the weather changed on Friday and heavy showers were forecast. We are fair weather walkers so decided not to risk it. Had a leisurely drive home via the West anyway.
Unfortunately, it's hayfever season for me so had to battle a runny nose and itchy eyes during our days out.
Last night Neil Young headlined at Glastonbury! and today it is Bruce Springsteen. It would have been a great year to be there.
Hope everyone is well and happy. We know Kate , Marty and Claire are. Keep up the posts Kate.
Love to all, Moo xxxxxxxx

addit

Have a look at the web site for The Rocksitters Club, Darwin-quite unique.
Cheers kate

more from the top end

Hi all,
Checked out downtown Darwin with Mart yesterday. Went to the museum and art gallery, fish and chips for lunch on the pier. Checked out the wave pool and Darwin ski club. The harbour is huge, flat and the most brilliant colour.
We spent the evening on the verandah sipping champagne and brewing up amazing banana prawns in asian steamboat style. A long pleasurely dinner over several hours, Fran would have been impressed.
This morning we,ve been op shopping-salvos seem to be very expensive here, with a glass costing $2.99 each-crazy. However we all managed to get a few treasures. We will check out the rest we missed today on Monday.
Marts got a mate here this arvo form Alice, Jeff, so I will play around in the pool. Clare K you should have come with me, the pool is glorious-water temp 28degrees-so you can stay in forever. And both you and Luc would so love Buddy the dog, he is a gorgeous character- as long as you dont leave anything around- he was keen on my electric toothbrush, which we found on his bed, as well as a razor-we still havent found the blade, which is a bit scarey. Claire says he doesnt look like a dog with a razorblade in his gut (whatever they look like) so I'll keep my fingers crossed.
Anyway Im completely loving being here, the first of many trips to the north end for me I hope.

Oh yea, a group of women were charged by a 3 metre saltie on thursday at Nightcliffe beach!
Creepy. Its very weird to be on the coast in this heat, and not swim in the ocean- I cant quite get my head around it.

Anyway thats it for now.
P.S. I was the only person clapping the sunset at Mindl beach on Thursday night.

Love to you all, Zak

greetings from the top end

Hi all
Oh my god Im in Darwin! Mart and Clare collected me from the airport, Clare was thoroughly amused that I was wearing my jacket when they met me, but the flight up was cold, and as well as my jacket, I had a blanket on in the plane.
Now Im in shorts and singlet! Yesterday went walking on the beach, swimming in the pool, and just hanging around with Mart.
Today doing some chores and just chilling out. Tonight we are off to Mindl Beach night markets, famous for great food and amazing sunsets. Clare tells me the people gathered there 'clap the sunset'-is that too weird to be true?? stay tuned.
The op shopping expedition we will save till Saturday so Clare doesnt miss out.
Monday we plan to get the boat out on the harbour, and Tuesday we will spend the day at Litchfield. The amazing thing is you dont have to worry about a change of plan in case it rains-because it wont!! Moo and Jules you probably dont get this idea at all, even for Illawarra folk, its a bit strange.
Anyway, time for a dip,
Love to you all, Zak
What a great feeling to be here, far away from work and worry.

Holidays

Hi All

It is Tuesday morning and the second day of the month break. Yesterday was a bit of a business day. I went into school and wrapped things up as I am moving to Darwin High School next semester as the year 11 coordinator. I am looking forward to being in a mainstream school again. i also weny to the doctors and he cut a little lumpy thing off my face. he didn't think it was a danger to me but I got him to cut it off anyway ( I always wanted a scar on my face since John Waters was in Rush). I'm thinking about putting the boat in today but I still have to get my tax done.
Zak is here tonight for a week and after that Skinny is here for a couple also. I am going to try and post often over the month because it's the perfect time of year to be here.

Cheers
Marty

Hi All
Thought I'd give an update of life in Wales. No one else seems to have anything to say. Still waiting to hear about Luna Park but have just about given up on the Glenbrook Isos ever posting again!
We are enjoying the summer here. The weather has been quite good - lovely on some days.
Yesterday Jules and I climbed Pen Y Fan which is the highest peak in southern Britain (886m).
It is in the Brecon Beacons and is a beautiful part of the world.
Today we are picking Genevieve up from the bus for her to spend the weekend in Pontardawe. She is not having much luck with finding work in London and is becoming a bit discouraged. We decided a break from the big smoke will do her good so she will be with us until Monday.
Gen is looking forward to meeting little Bree, our newest family member. What a beautiful child she is! Will post some photos when I get some.
Not much else to add for now. Hope you are all still alive!
Love to you all
Moo xxxx

Greetings from Wales

Hi All
Lovely to speak to you on the Annivrsary! Sorry we weren't there to join in the celebrations but we were thinking of you all - and a good excuse to have champagne at breakfast.
It was great to have Gen staying with us for just over a week. She is in London now looking for work. Hope she finds something soon.
We have been enjoying some fabulous weather here. Jules and I had a lovely day out on Sunday. Beautiful drive through the countryside, a picnic on the beach at Llangrannog - we took Mum & Dad there - and then a visit to a castle at Cilgerran. I then met Gil, Louise and a few others to "wet the babies head". Came close to drowning her I think.
Laura has had her baby - so I am now a great great aunt! - delivered Bree at 3.45a.m. on Sunday morning weighing in at 6lb 6oz. I have not met her yet but have seen photos. Mother and baby both doing well and should be home today.
Am checking the blog daily for a report on the Luna Park visit Connor.
I am getting plenty of work. Hard to go when the weather is so fabulous.
Hope everyone has recovered from the anniversary celebrations.
Love to all
Moo xxxxxx

Golden Wedding

Hi All

While all were present at the celebratary meal there is no need for comment. Joan and Kevin would like to register the day with a couple of photos.

Thank you All for a memorable, homely, lovable day. Your presence and loving good wishes are treasured by Grandma and Tjilpi.

Greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Just to say Hi and Im looking forward to the coming weekend.
Love to you all, Zak
P.S. Dont forget to frock up a bit, as this is an amazing celebration.

OK Moo I get the hint

Well the trip to Roper was great but not many fish. it was a great chance to get away with the blokes and talk shit and drink. There were four of us and all up we only got ten fish. I did well though as I caught five of them. I won't bore you with the technicalities of why it was so hard to catch fish suffice to say "You should have been here last week."

We now have another new dog. I managed to track down the owners of bubbaganoush, she went home and so our search continued. We now have Buddy, a pup we rescued from PAWS who rehome dogs that have been mistreated. I had forgotten what it's like to have a pup, missing shoes, poos in not very appropriate places and just training to get everything right. I think he will grow up to be a good dog though a bit larger than our Lucy.

Will is here for trade school for two weeks which is great. We are going to watch some motorbike racing tomorrow and as it is a long weekend here we are going fishing on Monday (unless he is out too late checkin out the Darwin chicks).

I have a new role at work so I am not travelling as much the first half of the term but should be back into again soon. Claire is finally over her study and after 6 years who can blame her but the end is in sight so she is powering on regardless.

Mark has bought a unit in Alice, it settled last week. Not bad for a 22 year old.

Will try and not leave it so long next time.

Cheers

Marty, Claire, Buddy

Greetings from Wales

Hi All
Just a quick "hello" to keep in touch. Great to hear about your research trip Lucy. What a great experience. I'm jealous. It's been quiet from the mountains and the territory. Are you still there?
Life in Wales is good, but damp. Yes, it's raining again (good name for a song!), but we have had some glorious sunshine since our return.
Still trying to sort out electrical faults and car problems. My car is going in next week for a service and big electrical fault finding mission. Hopefully, I will have a fully functional vehicle by the end of the week.
Yesterday I saw "Slumdog Millionaire" - what a great film! I was completely absorbed from start to finish. Love the bit of Bollywood at the end. Next week they are screening "Australia" in our local Arts Centre.
Last night I was at the theatre. Saw a production called "All the Fun of the Fair" which is a David Essex musical. It's a bit like "Mamma Mia", using the songs around a story. David Essex himself plays the lead role. It was quite enjoyable.
A man has just arrived to look at our damp problem and give us some advice (we hope). Then it's the boiler to sort out. Awaiting a guy to look at that as well.
Otherwise, it's a bit of work and a bit more play. Have been in touch with Gen Dwyer via facebook and look forward to seeing her when she arrives in the UK.
Hope everyone is well and happy. Take care.Love to All. xxxxxxx

Greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Go Luc, that girl is going to save the world!!
So what interesting things have I been doing??
Well I continue a lovely pottery class on thursday nights, with my guru Chell and two other female students. Its a beautiful time together to create, share and learn.
Hasi and I went to see Metamorphosis last week at the theatre- a Kafka classic performed by an icelandic theatre troupe--amazing!!
Its been raining since sunday so the garden is sparkling. (too bad about not being able to keep painting the house)
Last week I got to cuddle Clare-gorgeous girl!
I found out Clare and Daves Tim is a Star Wars freak-even if he hasnt seen all the movies because they are a bit scary for him at the moment.
Walking and swimming on the beach-that is always a pure delight!
Ive presently got 4 layers of tops on, so autumn is well and truly here.
Love to you all,
Zak

Murray Darling Fresh Water Research Camp

Hey Everyone

It's been a really long time since I have left a comment on here I know, but I wanted to fill you in on my MDFWR Camp which I attended in Albury from the 14th to the 19th of April. It was FANTASTIC! I learned so many new things, we arrived and unpacked at the boarding school then went for our opening and the first meal. THE FOOD WAS DELICIOUS seriously, it was like eating at a restaurant every single night! We got split into groups to do our research and were shown around the Wonga Wetlands, some of you may know this because this is where the bio sub project was conducted. We were given two sites to observe which were part of the same anabranch, one was completely dead and the other lush and vegetated. We as groups with help from scientists who volunteered their time had to research different parameters, birds, fish, macro-invertebrates(bugs), water quality and vegetation. We then used all of these things to support our hypotheses and do a final presentation. Overall it was a great experience and people came from all over Australia, 48 kids from year 11 in total. I would recommend the program to anyone even if they weren't interested in pursuing a career involving water research, I met so many new friends who I plan to keep in contact with for a long time. Anyway, hope all is well lots of love xoxo Lucy :)

Easter Greetings.

Annie told us about the party but did not put any photos of the occasion. Michael and Damien did a great job with the eulogy but, disappointingly in my view, Steve did not reply although I appreciate his reasons. I'll put a couple of photos on to let you see the environs.

Joan and I had a great day today with the Dwyers at Clare's and Dave's. Brigid booted up Dave's computer to Facebook to see if there was a message from Gen who happened to be on it at that time. We all had a conversation with Gen for over an hour. Clare had planted eggs and bunnies around the garden and we all had fun finding them. Aunty Kate was the most successful finding 20 eggs and 3 bunnies -Joan reckons Aunty Kate can smell chocolate. It was great fun.

Looking forward to the Kennedys during the week.

from the party capital

Hi all, thought it was my turn to add something. We all had a great time at Steve's 50th. It was great to have some of my family there- thanks Mum and Dad, Kate and Jack for making the trek. Steve really enjoyed himself and Damian's and Michaels' "eulogy"was very funny. Last week of term flew by great to be on holidays. My new music teacher only lasted a term so I have another one to break in next term, hope she'll last longer! Lucy is off to Albury for her camp doing freshwater research obviously she doesn't get her interest in science from the iso side. Clare, Steve and I are heading for Sydney on tuesday without Lucy. I think Clare will miss her, she's planning on taking lots of DVDs to use on Mum and Dad's new machine. Steve is going to be measured for his kilt (a present from his mum) on Thursday at Menai, hopefully we'll go to the show on Wednesday. Steve thought he was just taking Clare, I love the Easter show, I couldn't miss a trip there. We will have to head home on Friday for the Brumbies game. that's about all, love Annie

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Birthday greetings Steve. No doubt you all had a fab time at the party. Hope the hangover isn't too severe. We were thinking of you.
Good luck to Marty on his fishing trip. Hope you have a lot of fish meals to enjoy when he returns Claire.
Life in wales has not changed much in our absence. Now that I am back at work, things really seem as they always were.
We now have the car and the van back on the road. Jules is helping his neice move into her new house today so the van gets some use immediately.
The panel from Friz looks fabulous. Not so mad on the pink chairs.
No photos from me.
Love to all
Moo (& Jules) xxxx

A fishing he will go!

How lovely to catch up with so many photos of family celebrations. Well done Tjilipi, you are a real expert now.

Marty man left yesterday for his 10 day fishing odyssey. In lieu of fish photos (hopefully many yet to come) I have posted a few of the lad eagerly awaiting departure.

Happy birthday Steve; hope it was a good one. Young Will turned 18 on the 4th so double birthday celebrations. His boss took him flying in his plane! Very cool.

Will keep you informed of Marty's piscatorial progress.

Love to everyone

Claire