Planning Progress

It looks like we are near the end of Stage 1 of our relocation planning with the arrival of the final plans for the new build.  We now have all the final plans, engineering and permits to move to the next stage of seeking out potential builders.  Three sets of plans will be going out this week for quotes.

The Half Court Finished

After months of preparation work the post is up and the artificial turf is down to complete the Basketball half court at Adam and Kate's place.  It looks a picture and really completes the upper level.

Family Photos

For Claire's 70th we thought an appropriate way to mark the occasion would be to take photos of all the family members at the same time.  So here they are.
Claire and Ian.

Brett, Cathy, Mitchell, Ebony and Holly

Adam, Kate, James, Patrick and Sophie

Lisa, Jack, Cooper and Lachlan.

Claire Turns 70!

For Claire's 70th we had booked in to Yarrawood Winery for the family celebration.

Lunch was to be on the balcony in the expectation of a warm February day.  We were therefore thankful they had screens down to protect us from the howling wind but at least it was not a repeat of the torrential rain of her 21st!

Of course the best part was having all the family together for the celebration. Then back to Adam and Kate's place for cake!

Times Change - A New Start

The van in the carport at Lisa's place is a familiar sight having been there for years. 

 The boys have just about outgrown the van so the time has come for a new style of holiday for the family.  Consequently the van went on the market and sold shortly thereafter.  Today marked it's last day with the family.  Lisa's last towing experience was to put it out ready for the new owner.

It is a little bittersweet as this marks the end of an era.

Quarterly Catchup

It was time for our regular catchup with fellow travellers from 20 years ago.  We have decided that lunch and afternoon tea is a more appropriate fit with our lifestyle than dinner.  The chosen venue was the Sandringham Yacht Club for an oyster entree and the best steak we have had for some time.

Then it was coffee and nibbles at Lex and Rosemary's place.  Here we were able to fill any remaining crevices and solve the issues of the world before heading home at about 6 pm.

Off to Echuca

It was an early morning start today as we headed for Echuca to catch up with Greg, Noel and Pam.As compensation for the early start it was a beautiful day for the trip.

 Greg is really not well but despite the issues he faces, he remains in good spirits and is happy in the environment he finds himself.

We all shared coffee and cake to celebrate Claire's impending 70th

Greg was having lunch with a group from the  Centre so we headed for the Bowls Club with Noel and Pam.  It is great to have the pokies players of NSW subsidise these fantastic facilities and meals.

Sophie Dominates in Districts

Sophie did so well in the school swimming sports she progressed to the district competition.  Again she did really well managing to come home with a 4th in freestyle and a second in the freestyle relay.  Granny believes her cheering made a substantial contribution to this great result.  Great work Sophie, congratulations!

The Footy Season Approaches

Sophie has been training with the Mitcham Tigers for a few weeks and is enjoying the new sport.  I have to say the Tigers do it well.  There is a happy friendly vibe at training and the food and drink vans are there for those that want it.  More importantly, the trainers and coaches seem to know what they are doing.

Let's See How This Goes!

Watches are problematic items.  I like the set and forget variety.  My old watch (of 10 years) has started showing it's age so a new option was needed.
My new option is an old option. I am trying an old mechanical, automatic (self winding) Swiss movement Helvitia watch that has been around for about 30 years.  It's working well so far.

Half Court Progresses

Sophie had another win today. Following the game, Claire inspected progress on the new half court and called it "Good". 

Jack Presented With His Badge

At the School Assembly today, Jack was presented with his badge as School Captain by the local Member of Parliament

Following the presentation he went on to conduct other parts of the Assembly.

Lisa was a proud Mum!

So now Jack has responsibility for the school!