Welsh Greetings

Happy New Year to you all! Hope 2012 is fabulous!
All good here, apart from a rainy New Year's Eve. Definitely a better time in Australia.
Had a quiet but enjoyable Christmas Day. Worked Christmas Eve night so spent the day in bed. Went to my friend Louise's house for dinner. Just she, her husbnd and child and the two of us. Dinner was delicious and I provided dessert - chocolate fudge cake - which turned out very well.
Was lovely to speak to you all when we returned home. That made my Christmas.
Many thanks for our Christmas gifts. Kate bought Julian a T shirt, a fab three wise monkeys brooch - which he has been wearing- and a lovely Kate made drinking vessel which has also been utilised well. I received a gift from Marty - a new addition to my Brownie Downing collection, a teatowel and a keyring. All greatly appreciated. Thanks again. Look forward to see posts of what the rest of you have received.
Not much happening otherwise. Not been any work since Christmas.
Had a trip down to Rhossili but the wind was too strong to make the walk so we watched the sea from the pub over a half.
Thinking of you all. Take care. Lots of Love, Moo xxxxxxxx

news from the capital

Hi all, well am finally on holidays, have done both grads at school and locked away all the good stuff at school from the burglars! Last night we had our year 7-12 graduation. It was very sad to see my year 12's go, who I had taught from year 7,  a few have also been with me in the musical bands. It was lovely that my two favourite students (I know you're not supposed to have favourites, but these two boys are special) come and give me a hug at the end of the night. It was also very touching that a lot of parents wanted to talk to me- in fact they were lining up!! Going to miss those kids a lot! Only a few more sleeps till Christmas- this year we only have a small gathering of Kennedys for Christmas- only 31, and we are all heading up the road to Michael's. On Boxing Day, the Da Rozas have invited them over to their place to celebrate the season, with a couple of other good friends. Tomorrow night is our traditional Kennedy Christmas drinks here and I have been madly cooking these past few afternoons after school. I think I am on schedule, but my apprentice chef, Clare is sure to help. I got a lovely surprise from my choir tonight after our last concert, they gave me a huge bunch of flowers to thank me. It was very nice, and I shed a few tears. Well that's about all, have managed to get all my Christmas shopping done in between, choir concerts, graduations, and concerts at school. Phew! Am I glad it's holidays, these last few weeks have been exhausting. Will try and ring you all on Christmas Day. Love you, Annie

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Monday 8.30am. The plumber and the apprentice have been here for an hour. Bath and surrounding walls have been ripped out. I cant resist popping my head in every few minutes so I dont miss any of the process. Some things are well worth getting tradies, and paying for. All pretty exciting even if we dont have a hot shower for a while.
Lucy's dresser looks beautiful. I would have never thought of painting it. Another generation to use and enjoy it. Lucy would be very happy, as Im sure mum is.
Now the jackhammer is in the bathroom, breaking up the concrete under the bath. This is quite an operation, and this is more diverse work than I thought a plumber would do. Thank goodness all the walls and foundations are looking strong and dry, because you really never know what you might find when you start mucking round with these old houses. This one is looking pretty solid so far.
Oh yes, more rain. At least it stayed away for the weekend, so we could enjoy celebrations for 11 years of the aboriginal tent embassy at Sandon Point. A great weekend of music and coming together of like minded people.
Dad and mum we received your caritas christmas card. Both Hasi and I were overwhelmed by your beautiful words to us. Thank you.
Hope everyone has a restful holiday. Im looking forward to working hard on the bathroom on christmas eve and day, then heading up the mountains for boxing day.
Love to you all, Zak

Lucy's Dresser

Lisa and Terry took Grandma Lucy's dresser to put in Samantha's new room. They painted it white and it looks really good so here is the photo to show Grandma how it's looking.

Formal Hasi

Hi All

Hasi, having been year master for 4 years, excitedly prepared for his first Yr 10 Formal with a shower, grooming and dressing which passed the critical approving eye of his mother-in-law who demanded a photo be taken of the finished product. You will all approve of the result.

Love to All

Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

Kate's car update

Hi All

On Saturday Katie "zoomed" up to take Genevieve to a wharehouse of second hand goods. She called to show her and Hasi's latest acquisition.What a beauty!!! I couldn't resist a photo. As most will not see it for quite a while here is the Suburu station sedan.

Love

Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

Greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Yes I want to see 2299 holiday photos, the ones you have posted are great!
So much for the first 5 days of summer, a maximum of 17 yesterday, 18 today and again max of 18 forecast for tomorrow.
The girls seem to be resting today, so not one egg. How do they co ordinate this? is it the same as when women work or live together and they all start menstruating at the same time?
Im raking my brains for some news about what I have been up to, but really, nothing is springing to mind.
However I do have a yoga class in half an hour so I should get myself organised. Has anyone tried the gumtree website for buying stuff, and what do you think of it??
Have fun in the sun whenever it reappears,
Love Zak

More photos

OK, a few more photos for you. Then those who aren't already bored can look at all 2299 photos that are left when we see you. ( Just kidding, only Kev will want to see all 2,299 - I'll make a shorter version for those who actually DO want a look ! )

 Halong Bay - one of the "new" 7 natural wonders of the world

 Floating Village on Halong Bay - home is where the patio is !

 Cruising with the little bro

 Come on, how awesome is it ?

A litlle bit of Hanoi, there's a whole lot more.

P.S. the blog creators seem to have improved the whole editing process, including photos, so if you've been holding back, give it another go. Expect to see lots of new blogs of peoples' christmas adventures.

cheers

Steve

Getting Photos on the blog !!

There were meant to be 4 in that instalment, here's the other two ( i hope )

Our river cruise boat moored next to a village on "the Mighty Mekong" at it's highest level in 10 years - we were meant to be walking UP hill from the boat.

A quiet cyclo ride through Phnom Penh

a few photos

Now you need to understand, we went to 3 countries in 4 weeks and took about 2800 photos !! ( that's the digital age for you ) So it's not as easy as it soundsto post "a few photos" on the blog, and we all know how friendly the blog is to photos. So, if you want to see our unrivalledcollection of holiday photos ( channel Monty python and Scandanavian credit cards ) you'll have to visit us or wait for us to visit you. In the meantime here are a very few pics to tease you. I'll try to add a few more episode over the coming days.

cheers

Steve

Raffles - a Singapore Sling awaits, just around the corner.

High up inside Angkor Wat, one of those "have to go there" places.

Penshurst

Hi All

It's great to get the news from the travellers although we're still waiting for the exotic pictures taken on Steve's "you beaut" camera. I can appreciate Annie's frustration as I wrote a Blog last week and in trying to get the photos on I lost the lot. Katie has arrived this morning and re-enthused me to try again.

Jack, Fran, Liam and Connor called last week and I took the opportunity to use the camera to show you the happy Sunday afternoon gathering with some of the covern.

Love to all. I hope all plans are proceeding for a great holiday period.

Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Annie, what a fabulous four weeks you and Steve must have had. You certainly fitted a lot in. Makes me want to travel again.
Not a lot happening in not so sunny Wales. Jules and I went to The Gower last weekend for the first time in a while. It was a glorious clear autumn day and we had a stroll out to the point at Rhosilli. It is a beautiful place and I never tire of it.
Laura (Julian's great niece) turned 30 last week so there was a party to celebrate. Not a bad night. I was very pleased with the gift we gave her however. I knitted a bag. Have tried to show a photo but can't get it to appear. Still can't work out what I am doing wrong. Grrrrr.
Christmas draws nearer and I am happy for any ideas or suggestions for gifts - Anne & Steve!!!
Hope everyone is well and happy.
Loads of love to you all.
Moo xxxxxxxxxxxx

news from the capital

OK Zac. I was waiting for some pictures, but Steve's computer is getting a bit old and is taking a long time to load them. So, Steve and I are back safe and sound, and the house is in one piece! We had a great time. After reluctantly going to Singapore for a day, Steve is really keen to go back there to see more. Unfortunately we didn't see a lot in a day and there is so much to see there. I did get to Raffles for my Singapore Sling though which I was very excited about. So how's this for price difference: 3 Singapore slings and 2 beers in Raffles: $115. 2 Singapore Slings and 2 beers in the Foreign Correspondents Club in Phnom Penh, $8!! We had a great time in Vietnam, started in Cambodia on our boat trip. I know you can't pick who you travel with, but there was an ugly Australian on board- you know the type- hated Canberra, Catholics, Julia, Labour Party carbon tax and was very opinionated and loud!! I avoided him all week, and kept my mouth firmly shut! The Mekong was the highest it had been in 10 years with a lot of flooding. In Phnom Penh, we went to one of the prisons of the Khmer Rouge and also the killing fields- which I found very hard to take, and quite gruelling. Tears came to my eyes a lot that day. I thought the boat trip would be quite relaxing- but we had two excursions of the boat each day, I had to have a nap in between!

Loved Saigon, even though it was hot. Went to the CuChi Tunnels where the Viet Cong had tunnels that they lived in and ambushed the yanks.They had hospitals, sewing rooms, bedrooms, kitchens with an amazing chimney system so the smoke coming out of the mound just looked like mist. Lots of booby traps as well. Went down one for about 10 metres in length which was quite enough for me. I would not have made a very good guerilla. Mum, you would have hated it. Also went to the War Remembrance Museum, a lot of these photos were quite horrific and they had a gallery of pictures of birth deformities due to the chemicals. Some people had children there- I couldn't believe they would expose their children- who were below 12 to such photos. While it is true the victor writes the history- it really brought home to me what a waste of life and money- and what the hell were the Americans there for in the first place- playing policeman and trying to stop another communist government in Asia! Can I just say, considering they had a lot of the country bombed and destroyed they have come along way in the 36 years since- everything is rebuilt.

Hoi An was our favourite place I think, an old trading port by the river, and the bottom two streets only bicycles and walkers allowed, which gave us a break from dodging motorbikes. Got so many clothes made, had to post them back, luckily jewellery only takes up a small amount of space, so got plenty of that as well! I think there are about 500 tailors in Hoi An. When we were in Hue we stayed in a hotel built by the French in 1901, it was lovely. Went to the Ancient citadel and also went to a restaurant for dinner in the citadel, which was quite amazing, eating dinner inside an ancient citadel.

We liked Hanoi the least. I think the further the north you go the more communist you get. Everybody in Vietnam calls Ho Chi Minh Uncle Ho and revere him. I think the people in Hanoi like the tourists money and like taking their money but don't really like us. We caught an overnight train for 10 hours to Sapa, a hill town close to the border with China. While I liked Sapa, I was disappointed with the itinerary here. I thought we would have more time in Sapa but to spend 10 hours on a train, with hardly any sleep because of the noise of the train, we only spent one day in Sapa. The second day we were there we spent all day in a car to see some markets further up the mountains. While the scenery was spectacular I did think it was a waste of a day, particularly as we were dropped in Lao Cai- the border town with China (yes we saw China across the river) at 2.30 to wait for the train at 8pm. There is not a lot to do in Lao Cai, as Steve and I walked for an hour, then sat at the restaurant the guide dropped us off to only to sit and read and drink for 4 and a half hours!! The thing that got me in Sapa and the other little hill towns is a lot can be said for a socialist government- every town up in the hills had a primary and secondary school and a clinic, and every road was tarred!

A day afer we got back to Hanoi we were off again this time to Halong Bay- you must see this spectacular bay before you die! We went on an overnight junk trip. There were only six of us- Steve and I were the oldest (we were the youngest by about 10 years on the mekong cruise) And there were two young couples with us- 1 American 1 French. It was amazing- the scenery every second there was something even more spectacular than we had seen before. I think I took 100 photos in 2 days! Then it was back to Hanoi, then home.

The last week we had was a bit hard, as we had to check out to go to Sapa, come back three days later , check back in, then check out again for Halong Bay, then check back in for our last night, and every time we had a different room! However I am very pleased to say we managed to cross roads in Saigon, Hue and Hanoi without getting hurt or maimed! And I am also happy that out of 4 weeks, I only had one horrible meal. I know you don't want to travel Marty- but you would love Vietnam the heat and humidity as well as all those motorbikes!

Anyway, I think I've covered everything, hopefully will be able to post some photos in a few weeks. I did miss our girls. 4 weeks was a long time to be away from them, I was very happy to see them. It is good to know however they can look after themselves and the house. Thanks again Zac for taking time out to spend time with them.

Love to all, Annie

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Well I was, by this stage expecting a bit of a blurb on Vietnam from the travellers??
Im with m&d today and will give them the gift from all of us at lunch time. Im presuming everyone is reading Brig,s blog, which is the beginning of an amazing story. She is so my hero!!
Greetings to all from Mark and Clare, who Hasi and I spent the day with on Sunday, after bumping into them in the surf. They are as laid back and content as always, and its great to hang out with them.
Humidity is 58% in sydney at 8am today, am wondering how that compares with Darwin at the moment.
Mart, my beautiful buddy Mya, who I met and travelled with in Afrika is heading to Darwin on Sunday, for 2 day orientation before heading out to a community near Maningrada(sorry about the spelling) for a month to work as a midwife! Cant wait to hear all about her adventures. My life is seeming a bit of a non event at the moment compared to some other women.
Never mind, no complaints, being happy and healthy at the moment.
Love to you all, Zak

They're back

Hi All

Annie & Steve arrived back this morning -- and don't they look well.

They were keen to get on the way home, but had time to give us some mementos of the trip, have a cuppa and a chat.

We await an account and some pictures.

Welcome Back!

Love Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Im definitely the feature for October. I wish someone would knock that black tooth of mine out. Oh typical, pick out all the faults first. Yes Brig texted me at 6.30 pm last night as the anchor was being pulled up. What an amazing adventure she is beginning!
I had a great week with Lucy and Clare last week, as you can see from the previous photos. Just hanging out together. Just waiting till Clare finishes school, so her and Lucy can hook up with me for some time in Cunj hopefully.
Im off work today, just making up a list of things to do. Have to make the most of having Steve's car for another week, before they return. First stop, the beach, for a walk and maybe my first swim of the season. It definitely feels warm enough.
Oops I think the nor easterly is already starting to pick up, so I better get cracking.
Oh and yes, I now have a real job. Only 2 days a week, but a permanent position- scarey really. Very psychologically traumatic for me initially, but I slowly get my head around it.
And having to book holidays a year in advance!! that is hard. I do know I want to get to darwin next year, Im thinking maybe October, depending when the markets finish for the wet season.(never mind what Mart and clare are up to)
Ok Im off to the beach. Love to all, zak

Farewell Brigid

Hi All

Brigid invited Kate, Joan and me to a BBQ to say farewell as she is on her way to Antarctica. Clare, Dave, Michael and Tim had arrived earlier in the day from their sojourn through The Centre. Coincidentally it was Michael's 11th birthday so it called for a real "stand up drag 'em out". Aunty Kate, Gerry, Ellen and Genevieve completed the happy gathering. The crew at Davis station are certainly not going to fade away through lack of fine food if we lucky lot sampling her farewell feast can attest.

We wish Brigid a very happy and healthy stay at the station and we will be in constant touch with her through her email and her Blog; not cut off like it was when she did the "Outback House".

Our next exciting episide will be when Annie and Steve arrive back from their Vietnam holiday. There will no doubt be a great pictorial show as Steve is no slouch with that exotic camera of his.

Brigid tells me that the summer temperature reaches a very high 3 degrees at its height. While I admire her venturesome spirit I don't envy the cold.

Enjoy the coming summer!

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

Zacky's Dress

This is the dress that Zacky made out of Gen's african fabric! How cool would it look with a green pair of sandals? With the $100 vase (totally outrageous)

Us and the boys! Zacky in her dress, and me in the one she forced on me!

Lovely Canberra local with the love of her life!!

(Me in the dress Zacky forced on me in the photo she forced me to put up)

greetings from?? the capital

Hi all,
Well Im jigging work this week and hanging out with Lucy and Clare and Brindi and Oscar. Luckily Clare and I have very vivid imaginations and this afternoon we have been floating down the Mekong, looking at temples(another bloody one) and being amazed at the height and flow of the river! The sun was soaking in to our bodies and making us quite sleepy. The dogs are also loving it, and not at all seasick? (riversick??) Only problem is, some of the locals think they might be pretty tasty on the barbe, so we might have to hide them once the grill gets fired up.
Clare has scored a lovely locally made outfit, and Im just wondering about a predinner cocktail.
I wonder where we will decide to travel to tomorrow??
Thats it for now, Zak.

Photos From Vietnam

Here are some photos that mum and dad have put on facebook to keep you in the loop.
A photo of mum in Singapore with her chilli mud crab.

The hotel they were staying at in their first few nights in Vietnam.


The sun deck of the boat they are on for their seven day cruise.

Hopefully they will put up some more soon, and I will post a few on the blog for those that don't have facebook.

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Wet and cold today, and that looks set in for the weekend, so reading, sewing and maybe cups of tea with friends on the weekend. Chooks have settled in and they are now all laying. We are trading eggs for honey and when Hasi goes back to work we will be trading home made organic bread for eggs!! and of course we have our regulars that drop in with a cartoon to be filled periodically. Share the joy!
Today Hasi and I are off to Newtown. It feels like centuries ago I was there. I dont particularly like shopping with him right beside mefor too long,but we will do a few favs together then separate and meet for coffee, lunch and arvo tea together.
Annie and steve must be getting excited about their travels. I am looking forward to a week with Clare and Lucy in a few weeks. Girly flicks, op shopping, walking the dogs. Im taking my sewing machine for the days Clare wantsto read in bed all day. Beautiful, I cant wait. Its the simple things in life! And while Annie and Steve are away, Hasi and I will be a 2 car family, just like every one else in our street(and half the world). No more begging and borrowing, Im a modern girl!!
Ok time to frock up for Newtown. It never is quite the same frocking up when its raining, as when it is a sunny day, oh well.
Love to all, Zak

news from the capital

Hi all. Well Lucy got home- finally! safe and sound. Now Steve and I are looking forward to our trip in a little over a fortnight!! Due to a big chemical fire in Mitchell on thursday night, Clare and I had the day off on Friday as all northern schools were closed. Bad luck Steve who teaches on the south side! Nice to have a three day week and a three day weekend. I was supposed to take my band kids to band fest to perform- but was called off. I Don't know if it will be re-scheduled, it will be a shame for the kids if if isn't as they were looking forward to it. Nothing much else has been happening- just working and trying to get work organised for when I am away. I have a real music teacher to take some of my classes when I am away-we don't get many of those in our system. I taught with her years ago at Stromlo High and she is an excellent teacher, so I'm feeling good that my kids are in such good hands when I am away. Jenny has invited the girls to her place every Sunday night we are away for dinner- so they will be eating well (probably roast lamb) at least once a week. Bad luck Kate, I don't think you're here for

Sunday night. It's good to know I can rely on my family- Moo to take care of Lucy in London, and Kate to take care of both of them for a week when we are away. Not that they need looking after, but it will be good for Clare, particularly to have company during the holidays. Thanks again, girls. That's about it. Will try to post something short before we go away.

love you all, Annie

Dragon boats @ CullenBay

Had Mum cheering the Dragon Boats in Cullen Bay Sunday. Beautiful day and am enjoying her visit.
Hope everyone is well.
Claire and Mum

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Back in not so sunny Wales after a sojourn in London with Lucy Grace.
Was fabulous to catch up with Lucy - and her friend Maddie - on this side of the world.
We met, as arranged, at Kings Cross station at 1p.m. I went back to their hotel to drop off my gear and then we headed to Camden to check out the markets. Had only been in Camden 5 mins when both Lucy and Maddie made their first - of MANY - purchases. Spent a couple of hours wandering the maze of markets before heading to Trafalgar Square, one of my favourite places in London. We then strolled along the Mall toward Buck Palace but turned off toward Regent Street. Passed through Piccadilly circus and then walked up Regent Street to Hamley's, the world's greatest toy store. We spent a good bit of time there looking for gifts for family and finally came away happy with the purchases made. It was then time to take the shopping home. We picked up some pizza and beer near the hotel and returned to "our" room. After dinner, Lucy gave us a fashion parade of her new purchases, we all had our turn in the bathroom and finally it was bedtime.
Friday was a glorious day! After breakfast we headed to the Post Office so the girls could lighten their luggage by sending excess baggage home. What an entertaining time that was. Once all the post was sorted, we set off toward London Bridge for the girls to visit The London Dungeon. When we arrived the waiting queue was about 2hrs so we left it behind and set off to The London Eye. We walked along The South Bank passing Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and The Tait Modern and taking in the sights of tourists enjoying possibly the last of the summer. While Lucy and Maddie took in the views of London from "The Eye", I sat and enjoyed the sunshine. It was then off to see the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. From there, we caught a bus to Victoria and then another to Holborn to visit the British Museum. Then it was time to head back to the hotel. The girls needed to rest and I needed to collect my bag and return to Wales.
It was sad to say Goodbye but it had been wonderful to spend that time with Lucy. I look forward to her next visit to this side of the world because she has promised me she will come to Wales - and I'm holding her to it!
Sounds like all is well in Australia. Fantastic news from Steve about Michael. Must be such a relief for all the Kennedy clan.
Thanks for the Christmas list Mum and Kate. If there's anything in particular you want Annie and Steve, please let us know.
Shall end my rambling for now.
Love to all, Moo xxxxx

Life is good

Hi all

Steve here, alternately crying and laughing. Michael is 100% clear !! Enough of Chemo, radiation and surgery - time to get on with life !! 3 monthly checks, six monthly etc and a new lifestyle but life is the key word isn't it. Thankyou all for your support over the last few hard months.

Steve

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
All Ive been doing is working. I know most people always do 80 hours a fortnight, but honestly, what a way to bloody well live. It is so not for me.
Hasi collected our 4 new chooks last saturday!!Lovely to have chooks again, saved from a dismal life in a crammed up cage. They are complete in house entertainment for us, hours of fun.
Well mum and I have just finished the christmas list. Looks like we did it in under 2 hours this year. I thought I might throw in next years while I was at it, but no.
Moo has been with Lucy today, and I presume her friend Maddy, to Camden markets!! one of my favourite places in london to hang out.
Moo and I were there almost this time last year with Gen.
OK so the list is
Kev buys for Claire -has never bought for her before
Joan " Zak last time in 2000
Jack " Joan last time in 2000
Fran " Kev last time 2000
Mart " Moo last time 2000
Claire " Hasi has never bought for him before
Zak " Jules last time 2000
Hasi " Mart last time 2000
Annie " Fran never bought for her before
Steve " Jack last bought 2000
Moo " Steve last bought 2004
Jules " Annie never bought for her before

never before means -not before 1998
See what you think, any probs let mum or myself know asap. Happy shopping.
Lucky Jack and Fran who may get some treasure from south east asia!!
Jules yours will be far too heavy to send whatever it is, so you better head over for collection.
2nd day of spring!! not that its such a great day today, but the scents starting to fill the air are amazing.

Love to you all, Zak

About Time I Wrote Again

Hi All

Well it's been a busy couple of weeks since I last blogged. A couple of weekends ago I took some time off work and went down to Alice Springs for Fishs Run ( he was a mate who hit a camel and was killed so every year they have a memorial ride out to Ross River and back). It was a great weekend I drove down Thursday night and Friday and stayed with my mate Johnny Appleseed. Trailered the Harley down and rode it out on the Saturday. Mark rode his 750 out which was good and we camped the night. The Harley picked up the peoples choice trophy which was decided by some backpackers (neutral judges) and we rode back Sunday morning. It was great to catch up with the old Biker mates again. will came around to Johnny's on Sunday so I caught up with him as well. Took Monday and Tuesday to drive back to Darwin and then Claire left on the Thursday to fly down to Alice for a week and a bit.

Me with the Judges and Trophy

Last weekend was pretty quite.... mostly did housework as Claire was away. The next couple of weeks will be a bit hectic again as Claire's mum Shirley is coming up for a week or ten days. I just hope it's not going to be too hot for her as the humidity is starting to rise. Anyway love to you all.

Cheers

Marty, Claire(in Alice) and Buddy

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Greetings from Wales. Not a lot happening. Bank Holiday today and I am off to work. Went to a barbecue yesterday which was very enjoyable. The sun even came out on and off during the afternoon. Julian has been working on the front patio and we may even get a patio warming party in before the weather gets really cold. I'm off to London on Thursday to see Lucy! Will meet her about 1p.m. at Kings Cross and spend the night with her. I return to Wales on Friday evening so have all day Friday to play tourist together in London. Very excited! Will post again after my visit to England's capital. Hope all are well and happy in the southern hemisphere. Take care. Love to all, Moo xxxxx

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
I heard that both canberra shows were great, by the traveller himself, so well done gals!
Im thinking the trip you are talking about Annie is the Elvis fest, but I know you have some other little adventure you are sorting before that.
I completely forgot about the christmas draw when I was with mum, so it will have to wait till next week, when Im up there again.
Hasi has been working furiously on the new upgrade on the chook house.May be ready for chooks in the next week or two. Im paving and pruning, in between working.
Spring is just around the corner!!
Cheers for now, Zak

news from the capital

Well the musical is finally over. YAY!! Left school on Friday arvo at 3.25pm, nice to get home before dark for a change! Am stoked we made $3250- enough to cover all our costs. My year 12 boys in the band say they are coming back next year for the next one- I'll wait and see! Have already got a list of demands for next year's musical, hopefully I'll get a few of them granted.Have included this photo of Dad and I and my musical band. Have had a very restful weekend, didn't get out of bed till after 11 yesterday. Last night we celebrated Jenny's 60th birthday we even had a pub quiz, set by the trivia master, Damian. Am hoping to get to the gym this afternoon, haven't been all week because of musical. Lucy is on her way to Venice today- maybe she'll get a gondola ride! She keeps us updated regularly with messages on face book. Can now start looking forward to our holiday which is getting closer- 6 weeks to go! Anyway that's about all that's happening, nice to have a Sunday at home, instead of at rehearsals. I wish it was warmer outside so I could weed the gardens, its a bit chilly today. Bye for now, Annie.

Happy Birthday Moo

Hi Everyone
As usual I am late but Happy Birthday Moo. Not much happening up here. Will was here for 3 weeks which was great. He only has one more block of trade school and then he is a plumber and licenced to make millions. The bummer is we may not see him as much.
I am going to Alice in a couple of weekends for Fish's Run. Have a couple of days off work so will trailer the harley down, do the ride on the weekend out to Ross River and then drive back to Darwin. Should be a great weekend.
What a crazy world we live in at the moment. A stock market crash where people make money and no actual product is produced, riots in England and people getting upset about live animal exports but it's OK to ship people to another country. Lucky I have a job where I think I'm making a difference to the world.
Cheers
Marty Claire and Buddy

Greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
What a huge weekend in the garden! I have been paving and Hasi has been building the new chicken coop. Neither is finished but we have done well. I have my fourth day of the weekend today, while Hasi has reluctantly gone back to work. He would have loved another day or two to finish the chook house, so we can get some new feathered friends. The wind seems to have dropped so Im planning a cycle to the beach, home via the greengrocer, then paving this afternoon. Never enough hours in a day.
Moo, I think Im up for a pair of fly sandals myself this summer. Wonder what treasures Luc will find on her travels.
If everyone is in for the christmas draw, (I have not heard otherwise) I will organise it next week when I am staying up with mum.
Moo only 2 more sleeps till your birthday, with champagne breakfast no doubt!! Have a great day. Im sure I will speak to you at some time on wednesday.
Ok time for some action,
Love to all, Zak

P.S. Good luck to Annie and Clare in their up coming shows!!

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Not much going on but thought I'd say "Hi".
Tried to add some photos but can't get them on. Don't know what I'm doing wrong. It says they are downloaded but they don't appear. I give up.
The window shopping Kate & I were doing was to try and show Kate my new shoes - they're FAB - but we couldn't find them. Would send a photo but . . . . . . .
Looking forward to hearing from Lucy and catching up with her.
Hope everyone is well and happy - as we are.
Take care.
Love and hugs
Moo xxxxx

greetings from the south coast

Hi all, Really havent got time to blog as Moo and I are window shopping on line and chatting with text. How modern are we!Coasties recycling centre tomorrow for new chook house then down the coast for a Bollywood dance party!
Have a good weekend
Love kate

Back at Work

Hi Everyone

Thanks for a great couple of days in the Big Smoke. I think we live in "the City" now but it nothing like Sydney. After Sydney I went out to Kakadu for about a week. had a couple of days to myself then Chappie brought Claire out for the weekend.

Claire's Fish

After he took her back on Sunday he came back out on Monday afternoon for another few days.
It is great to be out where there is no phones television or many other people.

Will is up for Trade School for the next couple of weeks so I think we are going back out to Two Mile Hole again this week end. it is a long weekend as friday is Show Day.

Cheers

Marty and Claire

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
We are back home after our beautiful time in Rarotonga. Great to have warmth and sun on our bodies, and explore a new place together. Thanks Mart for your visit south. As can be seen from the photos we all loved having some time with you. Of course we missed seeing your sweetie, but holidays are precious and
I get the too much of the in law thing, once every several years is enough for me.
Today is the last day of my holiday unfortunately, but Hasi is back at work today, so I wont complain. Anyway Im not to complain about work, because if I didnt have any we couldnt travel or have our little home, as Hasi always reminds me.
Annie Clare and I had a great night last night at Mary Poppins. I had to try hard to contain myself from bursting into song several times during the show.
O.K. time to get cracking for the day-hang out washing and go for a run-dont be lazy!
Love to you all, Zak

p.s. Liam I hope you had a lovely evening last night, and we did not hold you up too much.
p.p.s Great reverse up the drive way!

What a great weekend !

Marty was in town and we all had a hoot. Here's some pics.

news from the capital

Wow what a big weekend! Bel Canto, my choir celebrated their 20th anniversary. Last night the current members went out to dinner and today we had our concert down at the guide hall. We had quite a few ex-members in the audience as well as family and friends. We all picked two of our favourite songs and Yolande and I picked two of Jean's favourites, our member who died a few years ago. (It was also good to have Ted, Jean's husband there with us to celebrate) We had 22 songs in all and sang for about an hour then had afternoon tea. We raised over $200 for the school Caroline (one of our choir members) taught at in Nepal last week. Caroline is heading back over there in a few weeks and $200 will buy them lots of supplies! We have also been performing some of the programme at nursing homes over the last few weeks. This week I really need to do my reports- my junior reports are due this Friday!! Luckily my senior reports aren't due for another week, its good to have them broken up. We are really looking forward to seeing you Marty in a few weeks, Lucy has been able to swap shifts so we are all coming. Our girls do love their uncle Marty! See you all soon,

love Annie

Hi all,
Mart, very civilised hours of travel for Darwin. We are excited!
Please consider a little Illawarra road trip on friday 31st, I will chaffeur you.
Just getting ready to do a short bush walk round Mt Keira this afternoon. Should be lovely now the wind has dropped and the sun is shining. Will have to keep the 30 plants I bought on Friday for the creek, till next weekend to plant.
Had a great day here yesterday with Brig and Gen/ Evie Chesterfield to us who know her from another place. Welsh tapestry has now hit down town Sydney big time now that Ms Evie Chesterfield will be strutting her stuff in it this winter.
And we learnt all about the Davis station and the amazing up coming expedition Brig is undertaking there!
I did only get on to the net to read about and see photos of the Night Scented Jessamine. Brig have me a wee one yesterday, and I am finding out where the best spot in the garden is to plant it.
Cheers ror now, Zak

Air fares booked

Hi Everyone

I have booked to come down on Thursday June 30 arriving in Sydney 12.15pm.

I fly out on Monday July 4 the plane leaving at 1.05pm.

Very much the gentlemans hours.

Just Touching Base

Hi All

You wouldn't believe how cold it is up here. Down to thirteen at night and only getting up to about 26 during the day. I left Alice to get away from the cold. Claire left yesterday to spend two weeks down there for work so she will be really feeling it. Haven't been up to much lately but with four weeks break coming up I am looking at having a good break. haven't booked an airfare yet but plan to drop in to 39 for a couple of days and then come back and spend a couple of weeks in kakadu. The billabongs aren't open yet but I plan to move from one to another and just si in the sun drink a couple of beverages, do a little fishing read a few books and just generally relax. Peter Tyrell may be coming up but he is yet to confirm. doesn't matter as I will be going anyway. The harley has had a bit more open heart surgery but it always was a work in progress. Anyway I am off to watch the state of origin down at the club ( like all proper batchelor boys) and will see you all soon.

Cheers
Marty and Buddy

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Life in Wales is good - if somewhat damp!
Last week I heard the "banned" song of our childhood performed live when Rod Stewart was in Swansea. Actually was a better concert than I had anticipated. I won two tickets to the event so took my friend Louise with me. We were 4 rows from the stage. The tickets had a face value of £95! Would never have paid a fraction of that but I did enjoy.
Louise and I have been continuing our gym workouts. We go most mornings for about an hour. Nothing much to show for it as yet but we are carrying on.
Last weekend Jules and I spent in the van as we anti-woodwormed the house and had to leave for 48hours. We just parked up in the field behind a pub a bit further up the valley. Was a nice change to be out of Ponty for a weekend.
Jules is now getting on with laying our bathroom floor. Will let you know when it complete.
Have enjoyed some good music in the pubs over this weekend. Had a "ladies lunch" on Friday. Met at 1.30 and got home about 12.30. Was a great day.
Saw a good film last week - "Oranges and Sunshine" - a joint British/Australian production. It's about the British children who were sent to Australia, particularly in the 50s and 60s, under forced immigration. Quite harrowing but a good film.
Wimbledon starts next week so I'll be glued to the TV for 2 weeks.
Darts are going alright, although we did lose quite badly in our last game (9-2). Hopefully we will put up a better performance this week.
Hope you are all well and happy. Sorry I won't be there when you are in Sydney Marty. Thinking of you all.
Love and hugs
Moo xxxxx

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Everyone so busy, the blog has been forgotten!
Last week I was flicking through mum's old recipe book (we all know the one) and found the recipe for kugelhoff. I really dont know what inspired me, but I thought I would give it a try, and yes a fine result, very delicious! Wonder if I'll be inspired today?
Mart, I hear you are heading down south for a few days. Bring your thermals with you it is bloody freezing down here at the moment. And I am taking you on a road trip to the Illawarra while you are here, so you can breath in cool sea air, (as opposed to warm sea air you have) maybe see some whales, and maybe even a fur seal, which are rare and endangered on the south cooast but one was on Austinmer beach playing last week! Get excited baby!!
Its now five times since dad has tried to get out the back door to go and buy bread rolls for lunch, otherwise known as going to the TAB, and at least six times that mum has told me she is going to have a shower, but the great thing is they have both finally got their act together and are in motion.
Anyone thought about christmas this year? Want presents? forget it? give to a charity? op shop only gift? kitsch souvenirs? home made only?
Think about it, and let us know. Mountain mob can respond by mail or phone if they read this.
Mum has just agreed to go on a road trip to Melbourne later in the year. Im wondering if dad put something in her orange juice this morning?? Nevertheless we can start planning our route, you got to love a road trip!!
Dad has put more than 600 slides from their first overseas trip on to the computer. This is quite an achievement and thank goodness Liam Jack came and saved the day by getting them on to the stick, which was way to confusing for dad and I to accomplish. Thanks Liam!!
Okay time to get lunch organised.
Love to you all
Zak

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
so what's been happening down south? Very sadly Aerial, ct1 and Ct2 and BRaumy have all been taken by the dreaded ugly greedy fox. We are once again devastated, and will not be getting any more chooks till Spring. Too heartbreaking and we do not want the backyard to become a chook cemetry, although blood and bone is great for the garden as we all know.Dad and I have been doing our heads in again this morning trying to put photos from the computer on to a CD. Too bad for dad one of his kids who actually could do this with their eyes closed doesnt live closer!
Life rolls on, days are short, no good for early morning run on the beach. Only the weekends in the garden if it not blowing a gale. Wattamolla beach in the National Park had winds upto 110km an hour! I hate the wind, makes me completely crazy, which is obviously more crazy than usual. I am a straw widow as it is 2nd semester, and although my husband is in the house, he is absent, doing exams, marking and writing reports. OK mum,s up so time for a cuppa and chin wag.
Love to you all, Zak

Welsh Greetings

Greetings All,
Happy Happy Birthday to Connor. Hope you had a fabulous day. Can't believe that you are 15!
Great to read everyone's updates.
Not a great deal happening in Wales. I am having a bit of car trouble. The electrics are giving us hassles. We have left the car with the garage and they have given us a courtesy car so now we are driving a Skoda Fabia. Great fun to have a new car for a bit but will be happy to have ours back.
Doing well in our darts. Only lost 3 out of 9 games in the first half of the season, and only lost 5-6 each time.
I went to see Cerys Matthews at our local Arts Centre. She was fantastic! Also saw Animal Kingdom finally last week. Film four on TV had an Australian Film festival last week so I have recorded a number of films which I will have to watch at some point.
Our fabulous summer weather has been absent for a while. Hope it returns soon.
We have blue tits nesting in our nestbox at the top of the garden. Waiting to see the babies fledge.
Have gone back to the gym. My friend Louise has joined and is extremely motivated so she picks me up each morning and drags me along as well. I need the motivation.
Hope all's well with all. Take care and have fun.
Love and hugs
Moo xxxxxx

thanks Tjilpi and Joan

Have just spoken to Mum, they had a lovely day so thank-you both very much. Can't wait to ring Marty to tell him my Mum is on the 'blog'.

Claire (the icicle in Alice)

news from the capital

Hi all, it's been a while since I posted anything. Haven't been doing much over the past few months. Stayed home during the holidays, and didn't do much at all. Brought all this work home which stayed exactly where I put it! Steve and I have paid for our trip to Vietnam, now all we have to do is wait. Lucy is also travelling- she is heading to Europe with her friend Maddie to do a Top Deck tour. She will be away for around six weeks. It will get us used to her not being here next year. Clare is doing really well at school loving the harder classes. The musical (yes I am doing another one!) is underway with rehearsals starting last week. However, this year I picked one with only twelve songs not so much to teach the kids and the music itself is a lot easier for the band. I am fairly stoked I have almost 40 kids doing music in years 11 and 12, though it is a lot of work. Anyway that is about all. Almost the weekend...

News from Penshurst

Hi All

Marty and Claire

Thank you for giving Shirley our number.

Irene and Shirley joined us for lunch on Tuesday, topping off their stay in Sydney.

A trip along the Brighton shore was a fitting addendum to the visit.

The obligatory photo is attached. They viewed Will's fish on the blog and, like us all, were greatly impressed.

Have things dried out after your record wet?

Love Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

Greetings from the south coast

Hi All,
Yes Hasi and I had a beautiful week away.We went from Gloucester up Thunderbolts Way to Walcha, wrapping round mountains then on to Armidale and Grafton, via the Waterfall Way, which was amazing.
Then Grafton, Casino,Kyogle to Beaudesert, then to Tambourine Mountain. Truely stunning countryside the whole way and gorgeous weather every day. Just being in the present, a wonderful way to be.
Thursday morning Hasi went out to feed to the girls and to his horror, they had been attacked by a fox and only Baumy is left alive, and in quite a state of shock. Not to mention the state Hasi was in, when he spoke to me on the phone while I was a work. So we are in mourning for our little ones, and hope their trauma wasnt too long lived.
We are in the process of refencing the whole area. No bastard fox is going to get our girls again.

Mart, that is truely an incredible fish that Will caught, what a great day it must have been!

Great photos of Friz's work, that will soon make up my 'aunty's wall' Colour my life baby!!

Better get to work with Hasi on the fence

Love to all, Zak

Holidays

Hi All

Mum and I had a great week at Cunjurong, made more enjoyable by Katie doing a great deal of the driving to and fro. Thanks Kate.

Rain prevented the Uncle and me doing a great deal of serious fishing.

Auntie Kate and Friz spent several hours in Milton. They spent another day doing a tour around the streets of Cunjurong with Mum viewing all the old haunts.

Annie graced us with her presence for three days while she attended a techno-music course at MLC Burwood-Oh the facilities at those Private Schools! I drove to and from Strathfield 6 times and enjoyed the privelidge of doing something for my children who spend so much of their time ministering to Joan and me.

Will's jewfish makes my famous schnapper look like a sardine. Great work Marty. Back to school next week - but you get the full month of July off.

Friz has left three "cut glass" crafts for Kate to finish off and add to the glorious colour of 40 Mountain Av. When you next visit Woonoona see how different they will look from this picture as they wait for the hand of the artist.

I'm going to watch Tom on TV on Friday night at 6.30 as he does "the line" for a Sydney first grade game. Jack tells me that he had a GPS attached and recorded 16 kms for the game.

We are waiting a report on the Kate and Hasi trip to Tambourine Mountain.

Happy Easter break to all.

Love Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

Will's Fish

Hi Everyone Will has been up for Trade School for the last two weeks. This is the fish he landed last weekend when we were out on the harbour, 110cm jewfish. Took about 10 minutes to get in the boat and he caught it on the dodgiest rod and reel. We were out most of the day, Claire caught 4 catfish, a mate of Wills caught a grunter which we threw back and I got nothing. He is here for this weekend also so we will probably go for a fish today and then go and watch the Superbike racing tomorrow. Cheers Marty Claire and Will

Tiled Fireplace

Hi All

Cop this lot!

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
What beautiful photos, what a quaint little cottage that must be! We all have such different little quirks, that we love. Mart the bike is awesome-still living the dream!! Both you and jack have bought yourselves the most amazing 50th presents for yourself-its great, its a celebration of life! Maybe I should start thinking about what Im going to get myself in 2013!!
However maybe I should think of something for Hasi's first.
Good fun and luck at the races dad!!
Love to all, Zak with greetings from Hasi whose making the pizza.

Kate's Chandelier

Hi All

Marty! what a buy! How long will it be before it is roadworthy? Congratulations on your 50th. Our best wishes to you for the day and the whole year and many more.

Kate showed us the pictures of her chandelier, fire place/stove, and Hasi's paint job on the shed. "Put it on the Blog" "I can't" "Copy them onto my computer and I'll put them on". We battled for half hour and couldn't get them into "my pictures" (so we thought). Two days later I looked into "my documents" and two of the pictures are there. Here they are and Katie is very proud of the chandelier and delighted with Hasi's job on the shed. It is a pity that the tilework around the old stove did not come out. These bloody computers have got me beaten.

What a great week-end the girls had at Cunjurong. Grandma and Tjilpi are going down for a week with the Uncle ,Moira, Aunty Kate and Friz 1.4.11.

Best Wishes to all for a great Easter break.

Love...Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

hello from the capital

Just spent a fab weekend at Cunj!! Zac came as well as Michael and Tina. Spent most of the morning on the deck trying to see how many breakfasts we could eat in one sitting! Then off to to the beach for a few hours, back home for lunch, then back to the beach till the early evening. It is just heaven there! The lake has closed off. It is about 50-100 mtrs (I say 100, Steve says 50) from the end of the lake to the ocean. Hopefully it won't stay closed for too long, as the lake is already starting to get pretty dirty and a horrible colour. However, it is a little deeper than before, though still really shallow in some spots. Kate made me wade across in my shorts again, and we both had to take our shorts off and wade across to the boat ramp in our undies. Lucky it was 8.30am and no-one was around to see us walk up the road from the boat ramp in only our T-shirts and undies. Lucky mine was long! Went via the Nerriga road again, but found a better way in from Bungendore, this time with only 11kms of gravel. It now takes us under three hours to reach that end of the coast. Much more desirable than crawling up the Clyde on a holiday Monday. Marty, Steve reckons the new road would be great on bike- lots of winds and curves, and because there are not a lot of cars on the road, you could really open it up and let it fly!

Back to reality and school tomorrow. Steve's sister Jenny is off to England on Friday to see her new grand daughter. Thanks again Kate for a great weekend. Cunjurong wouldn't be the same without you. Love to all, Annie

My Birthday Present

Hi All

I thought that turning 50 was a good excuse to lash out and but an old Harley. It is a 1967 model. I was looking for a 61 Panhead but they where all out of my price range, so when this came up in Darwin I decided to go for it. It still needs a bit of work but thats the story with old bikes. Other than that the wet season seems to be going forever although the sun was out yesterday and it looks like being another nice day today. Most weekends are spent trying to keep the garden under control (you can almost watch the plants growing they grow so quickly) or cleaning the mould off the walls (which grows as quickly as the garden).
Claire has just been in Alice for 2 weeks and so she caught up with the boys who are both well. Will will be up here in a few weeks for trade school so I am looking forward to going to the Australian Superbike races with him. Haven't been fishing for a few weeks as the weather is pretty unpredictable. It's not much being caught out in a tropical downpour. haven't caught up with the Faggion mob for a while but i am thinking of having a bit of a barby around my birthday time so will probably catch up then.

Luv to you all
Marty and Claire

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Am trying to post photos. They show our house. If they work, NB witch lamp in and runner on coffee table.
Hope you had a fab birthday Jack. We were thinking of you.
Love to all. xxxxx
Sorry, don't know what is happening to the snaps. They are uploading but not able to show them. Can anyone offer any help on the subject. xxx

Greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
well I had my beautiful week off work last week. Reading the whole paper over several cups of tea, cycling in the sun with a gorgeous nor easterly hugging me, having the whole ocean pool to float in to myself, reading and of course the big project-the mosaicing of the fireplace in the kitchen. That was a mean feat, but I eventually finished grouting on Friday arvo!! A labour of love (and a little madness of the obsessive compulsive order)
Now Im back to the madness of work, such is life.
Love to you all, Zak

Welsh Greetings

Hi All
Really know I'm back on the other side of the world when I hear Marty & Co survive a cyclone I didn't even know was a threat. Glad to hear all is well though.
Finally went back to work yesterday. Loads of work while I was away. As soon as I make myself available, no work. The days I am busy, texts to work. Hopefully the work will now continue.
Haven't seen Cynthia since we returned but Jules has spoken to her most days and I rang her myself last week. She seems to have survived the journey home and we are all still speaking so things are OK.
The shorts and sandals are put away and the jeans and boots are back on most days.
Had a fab ladies lunch with my friend Louise last week. Jules dropped us off about 2.15 and Lou's husband Chris picked us up about 8.30. Managed to consume a few bottles of red in that time and catch up on all that had been happening whilst we were away.
Darts doesn't start for another couple of weeks but we have got together for practice and catch up.
Have been not doing much really so won't waffle on anymore. Have bought a new camera so once I get it sorted I can try to post some snaps.
Thinking of you all. Take care and have fun. xxxxx

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Very glad to hear you guys in the tropics are safe and well. Yep, I am a big believer in not having big trees near houses if avoidable. I feel so much safer lying in bed listening to a howling southerly and knowing the old palm tree wont flatten the car then flatten me when it falls, since we have had it cut down.

We are starting to feel like the tropics have moved south over the last few weeks. The humidity is up, and you are sure its going to rain, but it just keeps brewing up. at least the sun is out today, and the sea is only a stones throw away, and we can take a dip, fairly sure we will exit the water with all limbs in tact. I know you will say what about the sharks, but usually we are not out far enough for it to be a threat.

Im happy because I have taken a week of work, to have to myself, potter round the house, and hang out at the beach. Sure the inevitable trip to the dentist for two fillings is booked, but other than that, Im free.

I bought a great old glass panelled door from the demolition yard last weekend, so today Hasi will help me hang it on the brick shed.
Thats it for now,
Love to you all, Zak

Cyclone Carlos

Well we have made it through our first cyclone. The night before they upgraded it to a cyclone was actually worse than the cyclone. There was over 400mm of rain which soaked the ground and once the wind started the trees just fell over. Luckily we had removed most of our big trees so we made it through relatively unscathed. Joe had a tree come down but luckily it fell away from the house and Chappie had a couple of big palms come down but again away from the house. The cyclone has been downgraded to a tropical low and we hope that it just continues to move away. It hasn't rained all day but it has just started again (the rainfall record for February has been broken). The school has been closed for the last two days and Claire hasn't been able to get to Batchelor but we both go back to work tomorrow. Good tides for fishing this weekend but I think the weather will keep us at home.

Cheers Marty Claire and Buddy

Photos

Hi All

Here are a few photos of Australia Day - the ferry race,other harbour activity, the crowd on the bridge, the Welsh tourists and the visitors on the last night.

Enjoy your years work - now that you have all returned.

As usual you have given Joan and Kevin your time and your company which we appreciate, enjoy and keep in our loving memory basket.

Love to all

Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.