Welsh Greetings

Hi All,
All has gone well with the purchase of our investment propertyand we have a tenant ready to move in.
That means I can finally get to Australia!
I will be arriving on Christmas Day, but not until 9p.m. Will see all the Mountain Isos on Boxing Day.
No gifts purchased yet. Lucy, if you want anything from over this side of the world Jules can sort it before he flies (don't know when that will be), otherwise I'll negotiate with you when I see you.
That's it for the update. See you all soon. Have a great Christmas.
Love & hugs to all.
xxxxxxxxxx

greetings not from the south coast

Hi all Yep Im out of town, down with Annie and the girls. Have started planting out the front garden this morning, trying to get a decent start on it before it got too hot.Half way through, but now having a few hours off in the heat of the day, and hanging out, in the air con with the girls. Good old Michael K left a trailer load of mulch here, so thats going on the front garden as well. Thanks again to mum and dad for loaning me their car, so I could transport myself and the 20 odd plants down here. thats it for now. Cheers Zak

Mum did a podcast!

and because she's technologically inept I have linked it here:

http://www.thehowlingfantods.com/chattering_classes/13_Chattering_Classes.mp3

Welsh Greetings

Hi All,
Thanks for the Christmas list. As always, if you have a particular request for a gift (Joan & Lucy), please let us know.
Lucy, hope you are recovering OK from your operation. Great excuse to eat ice-cream!
Annie, Had a listen to the podcast. Well done. Was a bit weird listening to you but was a great interview.
Mountain Isos, glad you are all safe post bushfires. Must be a very worrying experience.
News from here then. As some of you are already aware, We have had an offer on a house accepted and are awaiting confirmation of our mortgage so we can progress. Unfortunately, this means our arrival in Australia will be delayed until the purchase is completed. It is a good house (we hope) for renting and we can't really let it pass us by. See you all soon, but not as soon as we thought. Will keep you all updated as things progress.
Had a great weekend away with my friend Louise and two other girls last weekend. The only bad point being the rugby score. Hopefully we will get better results in the weeks that follow. Doing well in the league world cup though. Went to the opening ceremony and saw the two opening games (Aust v Eng & Wales v Italy). Was a great day.
Weather is getting colder and I am looking forward to leaving it behind to get to the warmth of Aus.
Hope you are all well and happy.
Love Moo xxxx

News from the capital

Hello all. Lucy had her tonsil and adenoids out today. She will be home tomorrow. All good when I left her, except the fact that she was worried she was going to bleed to death!! She is a bit of a wuss! Also the big news is that Jo Green found me again after almost 20 years- through this blog. She is in France and has been trying to find her- I thought I was pretty easy to find- been living in the same house for over 20 years. Anyway as she read through the blog she picked up that I worked at Melba and found the email address and emailed the front office. She rang two weeks ago- great to hear from her again after so long. and she will be back in Australia and Canberra in December.
the other news I have is a friend of mine, Matt Barry who I used to work for has a podcast called the Chattering Classes. I am on the latest episode. If you have facebook it is easy to find, I think he may have tagged me in a post about it. For those of you who don't, I am going to attempt to paste the website address here now. Hopefully it will work, other wise I think if you google The Chattering Classes podcast you may get it. Anyway here we go:
http://www.thehowlingfantods.com/chattering_classes/
Not sure if it will work, by clicking, you may have to cut and paste it into the address bar. Kate, you may need to help Dad with that- I'm sure you know how to do that!!
Anyway I have had an exhausting day, time to put the electric blanket on as it is getting down to -1 tonight. We have a saying in Canberra- never plant your tomatoes till after Melbourne Cup Day (so they don't get killed by the frost). Moo, looking forward to seeing you and Jules when you get here. Bye for now. Love you all, Annie

Christmas List

Hi All Kate has done great work in contacting all re the Christmas List and the consensus is to include the grandchildren. Pulling the names from a hat,we held our breath, hoping that the draw would give a good spread. And so it did. The following is the result. Kevin buys for...Martin Joan buys for ...Connor John buys for....Hazi Fran ............Claire Tom ............Anne Liam ............Clare Connor ..........Kevin Martin ..........Kate Claire ..........Fran Kate ...........Tom Hazi ............John Anne ............Maureen Lucy ............Liam Clare ...........Julian Maureen .........Joan Julian ..........Lucy Where and when the exchanges occur will be an interesting exercise in itself, with Kate and Hazi overseas, Martin and Claire who knows where, Liam in America ...The Joys of Christmas holidays. Love to all Grandma and Tjilpi.

news from the capital

I had no problem- apart from forgetting my password, once I reset it, it let me sign straight in. Not much happening here- am finishing off my last 2 assignments for my Cert IV in Career Development- not too complex but very time consuming! If I don't finish it tomorrow I may need to take
Monday off to finish. Then I can have my life back and can clean the house and weed the garden, and other things I have not had time to do. And the bastard insurance company isn't going to pay... maybe I will start a social media campaign, seems to work for other people.

greetings from the south coast

Hi all, What the hell is going on with this blog. Moo cannot get on and now I cant put photos on. I am scared we are going to lose it all. Should we download it all,print it all and start again or what. Any ideas from anyone?? I cant bear the thought of losing it all!!! it has been such a great way for us all to connect. Actually I should discuss with Clare and Lucy, they will no doubt, have a solution. Love to you all, Zak

News from the capital

OK Kate, you have guilted me into writing something. Just returned from the Blues Festival in N Narooma. After 3 years of being away, the organiser realised he had made a big mistake and brought it back. Beautiful weather and some great music. Clare came with me, and we also had Michael and Tina, Kate, Lisa, Terry and their 14 month old, Bridget as well as  two of their friends. Clare had a great time, I think we have converted her to a blues fan. It was tough without Steve there as he always enjoyed it so much and he was really looking foward to going back to Narooma this year. As Kate said, Lucy's 21st was great, though it was another tough time for us. Thanks to Michael who helped get the yard ready, came around on the day and got things organised and cooked for me. Don't know what I would do without  Michael and Tina. Nice to see the Isaksens represented as well. Looking forward to a visit from Mum and Dad tomorrow, and Claire as well in the next few weeks. Will have to stock up on champagne!!  Nothing much else is happening, downhill run from here till the end of the year.

greetings from the south coast

Hi anyone out there, Spring is definitely here. The garden is looking pretty colourful. Im happy to say Annie's is looking pretty good as well. Hopefully we will get a few more plants in at her place in the next month before summer kicks in. What a great few days I had with Annie Clare and Lucy, celebrating Lucy's 21st.She looked so amazingly beautiful on the day of her birthday. I know she's always beautiful, but her eyes that day were extradinary, the most amazing brilliant colour, and her skin was flawless and glowing.I hear the celebrations kicked on for a week, and a few more of the family got to celebrate with her. Unfortunately I didnt have my camera, as Hasi took it to Germany, but hopefully there are a few good shots around taken by others. So what the hell is happening to this blog, or has everyone gone to facebook. I get that Annie mightnt be in the mood for writing, but what is everyone else's excuse?? I have to say Steve was always a great contributor to this blog, always with a few photos thrown in. Well I suppose as no one is reading it, I might stop here. think I will just go and move some furniture. Anyone got a great colour idea for a repaint of a kitchen dresser? Stripping it back is not an option. Far too much work, and too much brown anyway. Of course, unless Moo or Jules need a project when they are here. The 2015 Elvis festival accommadation is in the pipeline, but I dont think much will happen till half way through next year. Im emailing Ray White Parkes about it, they are the ones that do the house rentals. They obviously didnt read the email very well, as they have sent me an application for 2014. Maybe they have never had anyone so keen, as to apply17months early. I will keep you posted. Im also supposed to be doing this years christmas draw, but need someone to assist, so maybe I wll wait till next time Im with mum and dad. Anyway that my lot.Love Zak

greetings from the south coast

Hi all So Friday morning, and its warming up to be a gorgeous day.Other than the dentist,Im planning a beautiful cycle along the coast and my first dip of the season in the ocean!! If I had a housecleaner, I could head off to the beach right now. I wish I was one of those people that loved to clean, good for the soul, cleanliness next to godliness, and all that stuff. Unfortunately I see it as a horrible chore, and leave it till I can see scung climbing up the walls. Excuse me for a moment while I go and hang the sheets out. OK. Sheets on the line, 2nd load in. Its a cleaning blitz today. Last weekend I hung out with mum while dad was with Annie and the girls.We had a beautiful Sunday up with Clare, Dave Tim and Michael, as well as Kate,Gerry, Brig, Gen, Elle, and beleive it or not Johnnie Jim, as mum still calls him. (I bet he hates that)and his sweetie, Lara. It was a great day. I love those guys. I plan to garden all weekend, and hopefully fire up the kiln, so I can one day get the tiling in the bathroom finished. Message to all, dont ever mirror mosaic around the shower. Soap scum is a disgusting thing!! Will try to get some poles up, as well, to hook a hammock to, which we have been discussing for ages. In January I told the electrician I would phone him on the 1st February, lucky I didnt specify what year, as that will now be 2014. So as you can see, I am talking complete trivia, and ignoring the cleaning business. Enough is enough. Im turning off the computer and getting started. Oops just need to check out a recipe or two first!! Have a beautiful weekend. Ive voted already, so the weekend is not tarnished. Thats all Im saying about that. Love to you all, Zak

Welsh Greetings

Hi All,
Thanks for my birthday greetings. I had a lovely birthday. It's certainly more enjoyable to have a summer birthday. Had my Australian birthday start with a small gathering in the front garden. On the Saturday I went to a barbecue for another friends' birthday. Was a lovely day.
Am sorry to be missing Liam's 21st Birthday Party but will be thinking of him and his revellers. Enjoy!
Last weekend went to an indoor barbecue (due to weather) at Karen's house (Julian's niece/Laura's Mum) for Clarry's 65th birthday. Jules didn't join me as he has been out of sorts for about a week. Better now thankfully.
Had a few days of work this week. No tickets booked yet but will let you know when we have.
Hope everyone is well and happy. Enjoy the party/Joan Baez/life in general.
Love to all
Moo xxxxx

News from the capital

Since Kate is putting us all to shame with all her posting, thought I should put something on. The big news I received today is I have a two years more at Melba- another 2 year extension. It is good to be in a supportive work environment for another two years, before I think about going somewhere else. Well the musical is nearly upon us- next week, and after that two weeks off on LSL, just got that approved today as well. As Kate said we had a great trip to Wagga, I'm glad Kate came, it was a little weird and sad not going down with Steve as we had in the past. Next time we all go down we are staying a few nights- looking forward to showing Kate the art gallery and also the glass gallery which I know she will love. Also looking forward to Jack and Fran coming- thank God I have a week off before they come, so I can put the back room into some sort of semblance!! Anyway that is about all from me, Yolande lent me all 3 series of Downtown Abbey- so Clare and I will be watching that over the next few weeks. Anyway that's about all from me. And I am VERY EXCITED about the proposed Isaksen road trip to Elvis in 2015!! Kate and I danced around the room down here in Canberra a few times on the weekend!!

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone, Well just thought I better put something on during August. I hope all the horses had a great birthday on the 1st August, as Moo did on the 10th. That weekend I was down with my darlings in canberra, with a side trip to Wagga to finally see where Lucy is living and studying. It was a great day for a road trip, and as Annie was the driver, I could just sit back and let it all soak in, and sing along to a road trip music selection of about 240 songs put together by Annie, including Neil Diamond, Neil Young, James Taylor, the Carpenters,Joan Baez, and more, more, more. Its amazing how all the words come back to you, after all those years. This weekend just past was spent in the garden, after buying about 30plants at the greenplan sale on Friday. Next weekend Im heading back down to canberra, to see Joan Baez with Annie. That should be a great concert. It is however extremely unfortunate that I will miss Liam's 21st celebrations. That is life,you dont have any engagements for months, then you have 2 on the same day. I know its going to be a great party. Time to get ready for yoga. Love to you all, Zak

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
My goodness, how easy is this on line shopping. Amazon have all my details, which makes it even easier. So as a result I have finally purchased my birthday present from mum and dad, and am expecting a pair of flylondon red boots in the mail in the next few weeks. Hopefully in time for my next Canberra/Wagga trip.
Ive already started my weekend, and I hope you all have a great one. I have to turn this computer off, before I think about purchasing another pair of shoes I fancy.
Thanks for my present mum and dad
Love to yo all,
Zak

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
Spent the whole weekend mulching, and still only got half the garden done. The tree lobber dumped at least 1 truckload of mulch, free, on the drive way. I do love a mulched garden. It gives definition to all the plants, so you can really appreciate them separately. More to do next weekend.
Tomorrow please be there in spirit for the Nurses of NSW striking for a fair deal, and safety for patients. Not that that arsehole barry O Farrell gives a flying ...... Obviously he has never had a loved one in a public hospital, or needed care in the community.
I hear some future king of somewhere was born??
Dad you should send that email of all those amazing places to everyone, it was amazing.
Thats it for me, have to find a strike outfit for tomorrow.
Love yous all, Zak

Welsh Greetings

Hi All,
Have had a lovely couple of weeks holiday whilst the Todd family were here in the UK.
We collected them from Swansea train station (Wed.) and they picked up a rental care - same as we did with Jack, Fran & boys. The following day was the compulsory trip to Gower and a walk out to Worms Head, picnic at the point, Joe's ice cream from the National Trust shop and a drink at the pub. Next day they left us and went to stay in the Beatles themed hotel in Liverpool for two nights.
On Sunday we joined them again in Bowness-on-Windemere in The Lakes district. Ruth had found had a cottage that was ideally located in the heart of town. We were 5min walk to the site where all the boats left and about 40sec walk to the closest pub! Lovely to stroll by the lake in the evening. Monday morning we were on the first boat to cross the lake and visit Beatrix Potter's house. Beautiful! Had a lovely walk back to the boat. Walked to Windermere town which wasn't really worth the effort but the stroll was enjoyable. That evening we had fish and chips by the lakeside. Glorious! Next day it was Ambleside. Another lakeside picnic and a long walk to the town. Beautiful! Dinner in a pub for our final night. Very enjoyable few days.
The next morning we said our farewells. The Todds headed north to Edinburgh and we headed south to Llangollen. I had booked us a night in a lovely hotel (Manorhaus - Google it!).
It was a lovely afternoon for strolling by the canal, before an hour in the rooftop hot tub with a glass of bubbles. Such decadence! Breakfast was delicious also.
The next day we finally made it to the aquaduct of the canal and walked across, under, over - basically saw it from all angles. Spectacular! Finished our walking just as the rain started.
The Todds returned to our home on Sunday evening. On Monday we went to Cardiff to visit The Doctor Who Experience, and what an experience. Fantastic! Only there for five years so hurry over if you want to experience it. It is well worth it for any Dr. Who fan. The Todds visited the castle while I had a stroll and enjoyed the sunshine. Tuesday was a bitsa day. Not very good weather. Todds sorted luggage, did washing and got organised before a trip to Swansea. On Wednesday we drove to Tenby for the trip to Caldey Island which was beautiful as always. Another meal at a pub for our last evening together.
Yesterday we took them all to Neath to catch the train to London where they will spend a few days before heading home via Dubai. I had an afternoon shift to get straight back into work. Too hard to go back if you leave it too long.
Looking forward to the last Lions test tomorrow. Go The Aus!
Can't finish without telling you that the summer seems to have arrived. Today looks like being glorious and it is set to continue for the weekend.
Hope you are all well and happy. Take care. xxxxxxxxxx

question from the south coast

Hi Claire,
What do I do to see the preview, I cant get it, Its driving me crazy. Can we put videos on??
Cheers Zak

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
Great to see so much news on the blog. Wish that mountain mob would come to the party.
Yes I'm home from a weekend with Annie and Clare and mum. Those mates of Annie and Steves are complete superheros in my book. It was an amazing day which I loved being a part of. Those girls are surrounded by love, and the skip day is just more proof of this.However I would just like to add, that as well as a heap of amazing blokes, and I dont want to take anything away from them, the superheros, but the women also did a fine days work alongside them. (me included), so lets cheers it to the auntys as well.
 The best thing that came out of the shed was all these beautiful photos of the family, that had been buried under a huge pile of shit for years. Annie knew they had to be somewhere., and we had a great evening last night going through them all. Thanks Clare for posting some of my favourites, I hope you all loved them as much as I do.
And Ive been in the new car!!
Hope you all have a good week.
P.S. You young ones are all very clever, and dedicated. Cheers to you guys as well.
Love to you all
Zak

News from the capital

Hello all. Thought it was about time I got back on the blog. Kate and Mum are here this weekend. We had skip day today. Cleaned out the two back sheds. So much rubbish- how can one man accumulate so much crap in 22 years- just look at the photos. We ordered one skip which clearly was not enough then had to order another one. So many bottles of home brew stored in cupboards behind a wall of rubbish that we had to break through. But now we have two huge storage sheds, the one behind the carport is garden and tools. The one next to the back room has bags and other stuff. Thanks to all of our good friends who came and helped. Paddy fixed the back door lock, put a deadlock on the laundry door and put hooks up. His brother who is a glazier, fixed our bedroom window which had been broken for years as well as putting glass louvres back into the windows in the back room which some nephew probably broke my putting a ball through them years ago!  Plus the other big news of the week is I got my new car!! It is very nice. Lovely to drive after years of driving the old commodore which was 17 years old. Did have a tear when I left the old war horse at the dealers- it's fate is the wreckers. Have put photos of all the rubbish, plus my lovely new car so you can call admire it. Moo, I will ring you in the next few days to see if you want to see The Lion King with Clare and I in January. That is all from me. Great to have such good friends!

Just some photos

  These are some old photos that Zakky really loved and wanted to show everyone.

This is one of the sheds before we cleaned it out today:

 And this is it after six hours of work by about ten guys:

Welsh greetings

Hi All,
Fab looking boat Mart.
Congrats Tom on your graduation. Looking very smart in the cap and gown. (Fran, great coat!).
Clare, well done on your impressive results.
No news from Wales really. All good here though. Summer has arrived and we are greatly enjoying it.
The log store is finished! Now just have to cut the wood we have and put it in.
Ruth and Pete are currently in Italy and will be with us next Wednesday.
Thinking of you all. Take care and have fun. xxxxx

The New Boat

Claire and I took the new boat out today. It seemed rather odd as I have been fishing with Chappie in it for years but he wasn't there and I was driving. We caught a heap of bream but threw them all back as we already have fish in the freezer. It's a bit bigger than the other boat but a heap more comfortable.

Congratulations to both Clare and Tom on their great results. Claire is still chipping away at her masters.... only 18 months to go.

Only 2 weeks to go until the months break. First week I will be at school working with my year 12 students, 2nd week I will be working on the house (finishing the balcony) and Claire's mum will be here, 3rd week I am going bush and the last week I wil be just putting around here and getting back into school. I am really looking forward to a break.

Cheers

Marty and Claire

News from Home

Hi All
What a week!
The back laundry/bathroom/toilet retiling and renewing is well underweigh. Back to living in a building site and accumulating a stack of washing while the washing machine is out of use.
Had the thrill of attending Grandson Tom's graduation. Tom was the tallest of the group, gave the Dean the finest salute, got the greatest applause, in a word, "stole the show"; (to my eyes anyway); all this as my eyes filled and throat became choked. This has happened on five previous occasions and will again I'm sure. Congratulations Tom. You'll see from the accompanying photo That I was not the only one "beaming". Jack and Fran strode back from the Great Hall as if they'd won a lottery.
I was hardly finished telling Grandma about the day when the phone rang and Annie relayed the news of Clare's results of first semester. One HD -Chemistry; 2 Distinctions -Biology, and Anatomy and Physiology; Credit - Forensics. These results achieved in exams the week after Steve's death.
To cap off - Marty rang and tipped a racehorse in Darwin which duly won at the unexpectedly high dividend of $4.40. (The owner expected evens).

Thomas Isaksen MA; the proud parents.

Clare. This was the last communication I had from Steve.
I didn't take any pictures of the renovations in progress but I'll take some of the completed job. The painter is due on the 25th June but we'll have the washing machine back in use before then.
Enjoy the long weekend.
Love to all
Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
Well I suppose I will have to keep this blog rolling.
Friday morning, Hasi is off to work and Im planning my day. Unfortunately looking at the weather, I will be cancelling my bike ride,and having a much needed massage instead. Also try to get in a bit of sewing, after cleaning the house, doing some shopping and maybe visit my old mate Don, the antique man, who I haven't seen in quite a while. I know, its sounding pretty hectic, there really isnt enough hours in the day. Oh yer, I really need a haircut as well. Maybe I can just do that myself.
I also promised Hasi I would start reading up on Central America this weekend. I keep sneaking in another novel, but he's now busted me reading my third, after saying several times"as soon as I finish this one, I will start on the lonely planet"
I am always inspired by Clare K, who truly does believe that reading is like breathing.

We are surrounded by people born in 63, and so have two 50th birthday parties this weekend. Lucky its a long weekend. I am trying to go as an Africian queen to one of them, if I can get a costume organised. Add to list of things to do today!
So I cant possibly spend anymore time chewing the fat.
But I will throw in random photos for this week.
Love to you all,
Zak

greetings from the south coast

Wish I still had those shoes, and fitted into that amazing dress.

greetngs from the south coast

Hi all,

Well its like a welsh autumn evening here. Its been pissing rain all day, and its still going strong. The thunder crashing down is frightening, its making our little house shake.  First rain for a month, so I shouldnt complain, but hope it fines up for the weekend. I had plans to spend the weekend in the creek, with maybe a trip or 2 to the tip. Should really think about bringing the chooks in to the house for the evening to get dry and warm but Hasi doesnt like that idea at all.
Anyway, hope everyone has a pleasant weekend.
Love Zak

P.S. Just found this awesome photo. Dont we all love a dress up. Also you cant see that fence anymore, because of the gorgeous cascading lily pillies Jack and Fran gave us as housewarming present, and now thankfully cover that disgusting fence.

Birthday Greetings

Hi All,
More specifically, Hi Connor and Happy Birthday. Haven't a great deal of time to post as I am off to a spa day today and have to get ready. Couldn't let the day pass without wishing Connor a very Happy Birthday. Hope you have had a fab day.
Not much happening here. Hoping to have the van back on the road soon so we can do some travelling about - if the weather allows.
How is the weather? I hear you ask. It is not too bad. We actually had some warmth last week (17degrees). The main thing is that it has been DRY. Jules is almost finished the log store and then he can start on the wet room - again!
Hope everyone is well and happy. Take care and have fun. xxxxx
Thought I had better add a Happy Anniversary message to the olds as well! xxxx

greetings from not the south coast

Hi,
just thought I should say hi. Still havent sorted out the photo I wanted to put on last time. Hopefully one day this week. The Nerriga road was great, more on the way back than the way over, as going over, it was dark by the time I got half way. Dont get me started on that story. You can ask Annie and Clare about how I was when I eventually got to their place, via Queenbeyan.
Coming back was all in daylight, and it was beautiful. What a beautiful country we live in.
Canberra in autumn is a kaliedoscope of colour, not just the trees turning, but the amazing sunsets.
Went to Bankstown with Gen today to go op shopping. Unfortunately the big salvos that used to be there was gone, which was pretty disappointing. Anyway a bit of a blast from the past for me . Great expresso coffee and lebanese pastries. Yum!
Got a few interesting pieces of clothing.  Shivers... just got a text with photo from Lucy, frocked up for a party, but the photo isnt happening. How frustrating being such a novice with this modern apparatus- otherwise known as a mobile phone.
Grrrrrgh!!
Ok I am more modern than that. What a gorgeous young woman she is, all frocked up to party.
So have a good weekend all you guys,
Love Zakky.

Greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Thought I may be clever enough to put a photo from my camera on to the blog, but unfortuntely I am not. So you will have to wait till next week to see my what I wanted to show you.
I must say, over the last few weeks I've been in Canberra, I have become quite phone savvy, and much to Lucy and Claire's amusement, they even taught me how to answer the mobile phone when it was ringing. Previous to this, I had to let it ring out, then see who had phoned me, then phone them back!! I know, How embarrassing!!
Weather here Moo is still amazing. Water temperature still 21degrees.  I might even take a dip down at Cunj today, on my road trip, to Canberra, via Cunj and Nerriga. Hasi and I swam last Sunday on my return to the coast, and it was awesome.
I am very much looking for to driving the Nerriga road today. I last did this road, 'prehasi,' so it will be a great adventure for me, and its a beautiful day for a drive. Just need to pick a few cassettes to take, as the olds car, only has a cassette player, so will take along a few old favs.
Speaking of music, gorgeous Clare also spent several hours last sunday putting music on to my phone. And she has given me headphones, so I can do modern music too on my road trip, if that takes my fancy. So many options.
O.K. time to get organised.
Love to you all, Zak

Everyone loves a road trip!!

Welsh Greetings

Hi All,
Great photo. Thanks for posting it.
All OK here in beautiful Wales. We are off to the North of this lovely country on Monday for a few days. Looking forward to it as it is a few years since we were up that way.
Enough work to keep a roof over our heads.
Darts season progressing well.
Thinking of you all.
Oh, almost forgot to mention the weather. It is getting slightly warmer and drier so spring is crawling in.
Loads of love. xxxx

Zakky Likes this Photo

I found it on my camera from the last time we were at Cunjerong and Zakky loved it so much she wanted me to put it on here for everyone.

Hi moo, I know you sent me that text last night but for some unknown reason, I cannot text back. it is doing my head in. I want to be in contact with you so I will just keep trying. Not even Clare can work out what the problem is. Hopefully will b successful soon.  Love from us all. Zak

Moo text Zak

Zacky's lost your number again and wants Moo to send her a text please

greetings from the south coat

Hi,
Well Im just working and gardening. So whats new?
I just wonder how many folk replied about christmas this year. Dad, you and mum need to follow this up, as you are in touch with everyone.
That's it from me. Its Tuesday, 9.15pm and Im getting ready to hit the sack.
Love to you all,
Zak

News from the capital

So I suppose it's about my turn to put something on the blog. Not a lot has been happening. Work, gym, work etc. This time in 3 weeks will be in Wales with Moo!! And I have so much to do before then! I need to set work for my students when I am away, and mark their work so I don't get too far behind. I will get excited about the trip once I have set all my work at school. At least they are going to hire a relief teacher when I am away this time- and one who is a musician! Last time I was away half my classes were cancelled- my students were not happy! Steve and I have booked for and paid for everything we needed to do for our trip. When I return I will be doing my Cert IV in Career Development- a qualification I need to do my job at the moment. I also need to get a VET course in music up and running as well as the musical. Never a dull moment- Dad don't you miss all of this Anyway, that is about all, as I said don't have  a real lot to say, just thought I would post something, as everybody else is.

Welsh Greetings

Hi All,
In three weeks today we will have Annie under our roof. It is coming round very quickly and we are greatly looking forward to it.
Not much happening here. We are having the coldest start to Spring in 50 years. A real shock to the system after the warmth I left behind in Aus. It is, however, dry so can't complain too much. Unfortunately, we don't have a new log burner yet so the central heating is working overtime.
Jules and I are both well although we both had a bit of a bug last week (Jules had it first and felt the need to share it with me). We are recovered now and back at the gym trying to get fitter and lose some weight.
Saw Cynthia on the weekend. She was asking after everyone.
Have had a few days of work since my return. Can pay the bills this month!
Really not much happening but wanted to say "Hi".
Have done that now so, Bye for now.
Love to All. xxxxx

Greetings from Home

Hi All
A special "Hi" to Marty our BIITHDAY BOY ... our "shave your hair" hero
Had a great couple of days with Ron and niece Cathy at Albury. Ron snarled an $800 trifecta on day 1 which gave him a bank for day 2 which wasn't as productive. I left a bit with the bookies day 1 but came out well on day 2 without sending the bookies home broke.
Katie - God bless her- spent the 4 days with Mum; left some scrumptious tuna pasta; plied Mum with banana smoothies; cleaned all the rooms; washed the curtains; trimmed the strlitzia and bouganvilia; took Mum and Joy for a haircut.
Jack and Fran called in today and Dianne Henry and daughter dropped by to consult Jack professionally and enjoy some of Fran's lemon slice.
Annie is getting all excited  about her "week with Moo", almost here. She spends the night before the flight with us.
Enjoy the Easter Break; and you "schoolies" the upcoming holidays. How I loved those school holidays! Now it's ONE LONG HOLIDAY made more enjoyable by contact and visits from my five treasures
Love to All
Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

What!! No Photos!!

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
I saw Rodrigeuz last night at the Enmore theatre. What a beautiful gentle 70year old legend. I was lucky to be able to speak to him at the end of the concert, and even get a tshirt signed. I really wanted to kiss him, but had to make do with a firm but gentle hold of his hand. I know Luke had tickets for one of his concerts, but I didnt see him there last night. This touring thing for these old legends round at the moment must be exhausting.
Just discussing with Hasi this morning if we should see Iggy Pop and the stooges in the next few weeks at the Hordern. Do any of these people ever tour in the top end?
Anyone want tosee Joan Armatrading on Sunday night? Maybe I should just take Tom up on his offer, of a ride up to the blues fest, and see the lot of them at one venue. The old hippie aunty on a road trip with the young lads-yahoo!!
Hope you all have a great day
Cheers Zak

Greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
I think you look like a real harley rider now Mart. You look great. Must feel really weird though. Well done on raising so much money, that is awesome.
Moo is back with her sweetie. We had loads and loads of fun while she was here. Spent the last 2 days being tourists. Went to Cronulla and walked to and swum at Shelley Beach rock pool on Monday, and caught the ferry to Manly for lunch and more swimming on Tuesday. I miss you already Moo.

Last weekend our blog commenter, Kai visited with his travel mate Gert. Featured below, Kai is on the right side. Amazing to see him after 20 years.

I am off to get into the creek. Im looking forward to 4 whole days in the garden over easter.

Hop everyone is well and happy

Cheers Zak

The Hair is Gone

Hi Everyone

As you can see...... after 25 plus years...... the hair is gone!!!!! I have raised over $1200 so far (there are still some people who have said they will contribute). Thank you all for your support. Now do I grow it back???????

Greetings

Hi All,
Just a quick few lines before I start to pack. Thanks to all for a great visit. Look forward to my return later in the year.
Also, we were discussing the Christmas draw so could everyone give their preference for continuing the draw. I'm in but will have to check if Jules wants to be - probably will as he hates to miss out.
Take care. See you soon - some sooner than others. Sorry I missed seeing Liam and Lucy but will see you next time.
Love to all. xxxxx

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
What a weekend!!! Saturday night Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds at the Enmore. Sunday Kai and Gerty came to stay. Kai was travelling with hasi when I met him 20 years ago, in Indo. Awesome to see him again. As gorgeous as I remember him. Sunday night to the entertainment centre to see Neil Young and Crazy Horse, with Moo Jack and Tom. All amazing.
Such is life

P.s. Mart Im sponsoring you today -good on you.

Marty is cutting off his hair!

Marty is doing the World's greatest shave fundraiser. If you are keen to see him bald headed (but still with a beard) please sponsor him! Of course it will be money raised for a good cause,
I'll make sure we get a before and after shot for you!

http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/personalPage.aspx?Referrer=http%3a%2f%2fwww.worldsgreatestshave.com%2fsupport%2f&registrationID=484923

Claire and Marty

Beach Babes

Didn't think a little bit of rain, cold and seaweed could stop these two frolicking in the surf did you ?

Great weekend as always at Cunj.

cheers

Steve

Greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
About 2 hours since I arrived back from Cunj. Thanks everyone for  a great weekend.
And yes I really did buy 2 tix to Indo on Saturday morning. I really felt that was all a bit surreal till I was emailed confirmation that I have just sighted.
Im not sure about the Neil Young tix, cause I think that confirmation has been sent elsewhere. Anyone know where?? and whats happening with the tix-are they being posted somewhere?
Anyway, lets do it all again in the not too distant future.
Better get ready for yoga
Love to you all, Zak

P.S. mum dont forget every 30 minutes. You know what I mean.

greetings from the south coast

Hi all,
Yep Moo is here. We attempted the Kiama to Gerringong coast walk last Friday to celebrate my 50th birthday. It was a great day, even if we only got half way, because we then found out the track at Gerringong lagoon was closed. No wonder, the seas were huge so it probably just got washed away.
We walked, talked, swum, laughed, ate, even did a few op shops with success.
on sunday Hasi and woke to chaos on the street. the creek had broken its banks and mud was everywhere. it took us and the neighbours the whole day to clear up. There was so much debris that came down the creek, that it blocked under the street. The water back flowed up and over the street, flooding sheds on the oppositeside of the street, pulling down fences and flooding one house and a flat. amazing.

Under the house

Above is what was collected from the creek, and below is the blockage.just left of the centre, is a tractor tyre, that Stew, our neighbour asked the council to remove several months ago. That is the problem with the creek. You can only be responsible for your own section, and the council doesnt take any responsibility.

I have finished reading Tales from the Tinny, and loved it. One of my favourite chapters was  the dry, page 135 to 141.

And Im wondering Mart if you wear one of those kill lanyards, I think they are called. Could save your life. anyway have a read and a laugh yourselves. 

That's it for now, Love Zak

Moo is Here!

Hi All,
Katie and I ventured to the airport to collect Moo.

Here is photographic story as we greeted her.
What a delight it is to have her here to complete all family visits over the holiday period. Cunjurong is next on the agenda.
Love
Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.

greetings from the south coast

Hi everyone,
Really I dont want to say too much, just want to show you some amazing photos. Hasi went into the purple shed to get the feed for the chooks one day last week. He thought the door seemed a little different to open, and looked up to find...

And of course, had to put in this shot of Drako and his new sweetie.

and Drako just hanging out in the sun.

Who needs to go to the zoo? Have just started reading Tales from the Tinny, which dad has already read, and lent me yesterday. A great read so far.
Have a good week. 2 weeks and 2 days till Moo arrives!! Cunj in a few weeks for us all -hurray!
Love to you all,
Zak

Hi everyone,
We have finally had a morning of decent rain, for the poor dehydrated garden, so this afternoon will be a good time to turn the soil and try to  get on top of the weeds madly growing.
Thanks to Mart and Claire for spending time with us all. We love having you round in the south. Sounds like you had a great time with Luke and Robyn as well. I am now just counting the days till Moo comes. Moo, the only Neil Young seats are way up the back. Im hoping Tom and Jack will decide not to go and we can have their standing tix, or some of Toms mates may be unable to make it, so we can get theirs. Just see what happens.
 Mum, dad and I spent yesterday with Luke and Robyn, in their beautiful home. It was a really lovely day, and great to be in their space with them, so cosy and comfy, with an amazingly well organised shed. I want what he's got!! Yes its time to sort out that shed space. I really want to incorporate a fold down bed, anyone got any good ideas? And who would have ever thought I would see our mother walking bare foot in the streets of Leichhardt!! it's the truth.
Mum is on a mission today to sort out the weekend for Cunj, for when Moo is here. I think we should just go both weekends myself, and who ever wants, can drop in when it suits them.
The Bulli folk festival was on last weekend and it was great as always. Just trying to find the program, which I was keeping to show Moo. Hopefully Hasi hasnt chucked it out or I will be climbing into the reclycling bin to retrieve it.Yes he has chucked it, but he is now going to climb into the bin to retrieve it!
Oh I am in a bad mood today, I think it could be too much sport on the television at this time of year. On friday I hung some crystals I bought at the festival. Smokey quartz for grounding, detoxification, good memory and dreams, Labradite for magic, clear quartz which is the master healer, as well as rose quartz for love and compassion, aquamarine for courage and aqua aura for motivation and opening. Now just waiting for it all to kick in and I may become a radiant loving being!!
Ok time to get down and dirty in the garden.
Love to you all
Nameste Zak

News from HOME

Hi All,
I have been trying to get some news onto the Blog ....and a few photos.
I had trouble getting the Blog to recognise my Password. Having finally convinced the computer to recognise the Password, I attempted to put some photos on and I can't get it to recognise "My Pictures".
I wanted to do some slide conversions and my link to the scanner cannot be redeemed. Ill have to get one of the Glenbrook boys or Michael Roffe to sort this bloody thing out.
Moo, have you got a programme worked out? You don't have to worry because Kate and Annie seem to have plenty of ideas even though they willbe working while you're here.
Best Wishes to all. You made our Christmas break one to be remembered.
Love
Dad/Tjilpi/Old Man/Kev.  

greetings from the south coast

Yahoo!! Great news Moo. Want to see Neil young and Crazy Horse, my shout? , I'll just have to check dates and if there's any tickets left. the major problem it is on at the entertanment cente. I thought Pearl beach for a day? See I'll have you completely monopolised by the time you get here.
Thanks to Jules for him sharing you with us.
See you soon

P.S hi to everyone else

Love Zak

Travelling

Hello All
Have just booked my ticket for a short visit. Arrive 19th Feb at 2035 and am there until Mar 13th. Can't wait to see you all.
Lots of love and hugs
Moo xxxxx