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| Sarge and I the day before! |
Newcastle, about an hour from Hunter Valley. Life's a Beach in Australia !!
Tuesday, 3 April 2012
Good Friday, April 6th, Day 26, Easter Long Weekend
Those who cannot forgive others break
the bridge over which they themselves must pass. -Confucius,
philosopher and teacher (c. 551-478 BCE)
Newcastle, about an hour from Hunter Valley. Life's a Beach in Australia !!
Newcastle, about an hour from Hunter Valley. Life's a Beach in Australia !!
Thursday, April 5th, Day 25
Walking is also an ambulation of mind. -Gretel Ehrlich, novelist, poet, and essayist (b. 1946)
Thursday, April 5th, Day 25, Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb!
Up at 5:30am as I felt rested, having turned out the light at just after 11:00pm. Upstairs, silently, leaving the Wind Tunnel Workers to themselves, to make a strong cup of java and then work on the Infernal Diaries with all quiet around me, no jeering criticism, churlish barbs, complete lack of understanding for my magnum opus! Beavered away until 6:45am when Cora Lee appeared. She was off to the hot tub and sauna, limbering up for a full day of shopping. Flamin' surfaced a few minutes later and made for the StairMaster in the gym. Sarge was last up and he made a cup of tea and ate an apple while I finished off my yogurt and apple and made ready to leave. Initially, he wanted to walk to the BridgeClimb at 3 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, but decided we might as well buy a day pass, ($10), on the Sydney Monorail as the stop nearest to us, Convention Centre, was but two minutes away. We took it to City Centre and then walked for about twenty minutes, enjoying the busy streets, filled with people hurrying to work.
We arrived at the Bridge Climb centre, occupying a significant, underground part of the approach to the Harbour Bridge itself, at just before 9:00am and forked over $208 each for the 9:15am, three and a half hour climb. Had a chance to scope obligatory souvenir shop while Sarge had a muffin. At 9:10am we climbed a flight of stairs to wait in a reception area and watched a video of what we were soon to experience, from pre-climb orientation to shots from the top of the bridge. Actually, quite a good introduction to the entire process, from clothing one would wear and how everyone would be kitted out to safety procedures, etc. Basic premise is that nobody is allowed to carry anything, from watches to money to hoop earrings, (studs are permissible), to cameras to Kleenex to bobby pins, as anything which falls to road surface might interfere with the cars passing below.
At 9:15am young man, (From Wakefield, in Yorkshire. I recognized his accent and asked if he was from Huddersfield.) He took our tickets and fourteen of us began the orientation process proper. While we filled out a disclaimer we each took a breathalyzer test, as Climb organization, (private company, nothing to do with Bridge Authority), obviously doesn't want anybody all jacked up on goofballs! With more than military precision, we stood in a circle, on dots on the floor and rotated, counter-clockwise, to be handed our jumpsuits. Next we went into another area to change in cubicles, like ones in clothing stores, and then we put all our possessions in lockers, placing the key, on a loop, around our necks. (I had wondered if I would be allowed to wear my Crocs on climb so I had borrowed Sarge's sneakers, before we left hotel as he had planned to wear his heavy duty beach sandals. As things turned out, he couldn't wear his foot gear, regulations stipulate closed footwear, and he had to put on a pair of sneakers provided by attendant! He wasn't at all unhappy with comfort and fit, by the way, Dear Reader
Once jumpsuited, (It was suggested that we wear only underwear as it was 22C and climbing, relative humidity 62%, slight breeze, 2kph), we were handed over to our Team Leader, a friendly young woman, (Neither Sarge nor I can, for the life of us remember her name.), and she took us into another area where we stood around a metal circle. I was elected guinea pig and she showed rest how to put on the safety belt which had a nifty mechanism on a small, covered line that would attach to the continuous security cable which runs the entire length of the walk/climb. Next to another station where we stood in single file while we received a radio and headset, all clipped to hooks on either the belt or the jumpsuit. Once this was done to last area where we received a cloth handkerchief, on an elastic to place around one wrist, wrapped and tucked under cuff. this was to be used for wiping one's forehead or to cool oneself after soaking it in one of r the water fountains along the way. Last two bits of gear were holders for glasses/sunglasses and one for our complimentary Climb baseball cap.
Fully loaded we were then taken to the Climb Simulator, a set of stairs that would allow us to familiarize ourselves with the procedure we would follow when on the bridge itself. Not all that difficult but it did take a little bit of getting used to walking and climbing, attached to the cable. Every metre, sometimes more, sometimes less, the tether mechanism passes over a joint, usually where the safety cable is attached to some part of the bridge structure, and unless the "teeth" in the tether ball, about the size of a fist and a kilo in weight, are properly aligned, you cannot move forward until you realign the ball. This soon becomes a reflex action but first chap up the stairs did exactly what he was not supposed to do, his companions shouting instructions below the raised platform.
When we all had completed the walkthrough we stopped at a fountain to soak our kerchiefs, (Sarge spit on the very idea!), and a drink before we entered a tunnel, cut out of the original foundation, (Cement which was removed by bore has been archived should it be decided that tunnel is be closed at some future date.), which led directly onto the first level of the bridge which we would traverse. Our Climb Leader had us face the wall and put our hands above our heads, doing a final check to make sure all our gear was secured. That done, the climb began, shortly after 10:00am. Sarge was behind me and last member of group, Climb Leader at the front.
First walkway, of narrow wooden planking, took us towards the first support pillar, on the east side of the bridge, constructed of blue granite, each massive block taking about a week and a half to dress, to make it ready for installation. Climb Leader kept up a running commentary, telling us, via our headsets, about the history of the bridge's construction as well as describing the buildings, myriad bodies of water that make up Sydney Harbour and spectacular views we could see at the various stages of the climb and from different vantage points. At this point, I should say that although we were probably about a 100' above sea level, I didn't really feel at all fazed by the straight drop on either side of the walkway. On each side there were handrails, a little over waist high so we were virtually enclosed and from this point onward I never really ever had a moment's concern about the climb. Not that I have a deathly fear of heights but I must say that climbing the Eiffel Tower in October of 2010, with Flamin' and Sarge, I experienced some trepidation, due to the increasingly dizzying height, as we made our way into the sky, at times.
In this same vein, when I climbed to the top of Uluru, (Ayer's Rock), in 2003, (issues of political correctness aside), the path one takes from the base of this remarkable monolith is up a fairly steep slope with but a rope, on stanchions, up the middle of the walkway. This path is not all that wide, probably two or three metres on either side of the rope. However, should one stumble and fall or otherwise lose one's balance and roll over the edge there is nothing but a sheer drop. Depending on where an individual happens to be on this section of the climb, (no Climb Leaders here, no safety lines), death or severe injury is the likely result. Apparently a Japanese tourist fell to his death a few years before I made the climb. His hat blew off and he went to retrieve it, near the edge, and toppled over. I kept very close to the rope railing and had my hand loosely around it at all times, until past the "Killing Zone". In my experience, many other climbers, particularly on the descent, walked down, some even at a slight jog, never bothering themselves with the security line. Again, even a slight misstep and the consequences would likely be dire.
Taking a temporary walkway that had been constructed to allow climbers to bypass some ongoing, major maintenance to the under structure closest to the south end of the bridge, we climbed some stairs, about a story or so, to stop at the last water fountain before one directly opposite, on the other side of the bridge, one we wouldn't pass until we finished our descent. We then clambered under some piping, (Sarge had to really duck down to gain clearance), through a narrow passageway paralleling the broad face of the aforementioned pilar, to reach a small platform where two other Climb employees were stationed, at the bottom of four sets of stairs that would take us to the point where we would gain access to the eastern outer span.
Woman in front of me, mother with her two teenage daughters, on school hols, confessed that she really did have a fear of heights, so Sarge and I told her that she would be fine and we chatted about her farm, (three or four thousand acres with both sheep, (2,000 or so, I think), and cattle, not far from Yass, a pretty country town we had driven through en route to Canberra), in part to get to know her but more to keep her mind off the steep ladder climb ahead. Each climber had to wait until the person ahead had reached the top of the ladder before being allowed to follow.
Although climbing the ladders is probably the most challenging part of the entire climb, even this aspect is not terribly difficult or unnerving. The ladders are at such a steep incline that one's face is almost literally level with the steps above which block most of the open space below. Once up the four ladders, you emerge onto a small patio-like rectangle, the walkway down the centre of the outer span curving up towards the peak. Once here, one could be on the balcony of any high rise as you are bracketed by handrails, the width of the span overhanging the aerial "sidewalk" by a foot, if not more, on either side. In fact, you cannot see down below, except through the massive and certainly impressive cross braces. At any rate, at this stage one of the main points of the climb is to begin to enjoy the stunning views of the city, the harbour and it's various bays and inlets.
Probably took about twenty minutes to make a leisurely ascent to the top, listening all the while to our Climb Leader or chatting with fellow chain gangers. Of course, we were afforded a stunning view of the Opera House with its iconic soaring roof. Apparently if one were able to place another Opera House on top of the existing one the combined height would equal the highest point on the Harbour Bridge. Interestingly enough, however, the Opera House weighs three times as much as the Harbour Bridge.
While those ahead of us posed, with their climbing companions, for various shots, (available later, of course, for more cash, $25 for first picture, $10 for each subsequent picture of choice. Complimentary group photo for every climber. That plus a "free" Climb baseball cap was the extent of our loot!), taken by our intrepid Climb Leader, (She had a carabiniere attached to her belt which she used to latch/unlatch to/from another secure cable running along the opposite handrail to the one we were using whenever necessary to by-pass the group or an individual.), Sarge and I took in the 360 degrees worth of view and marveled, in sheer wonderment, at the technical engineering feat of the structure, its aesthetics, its grace and harmony never lost on those who gaze upon its gargantuan proportions, in fact, the very observation enhanced by the fact of seeing it from within the organic structure of the colossal struts and its six million rivets.
Finally it was time for the aforementioned group shot, with obligatory "You are amazing", congratulations from the Climb Leader, kindergarten children receiving their gold stars as we were shutterbugged, making forced yells of exhilaration as we posed in staged positions, arms outstretched and upraised in victory, The Conquerors of The Harbour Bridge. The hoopla over, the descent down the western span was most pleasant as we scoped Darling Harbour and the bays and islands near the mouth of the Paramatta River. Neither Sarge nor I felt it was the least bit physically demanding and were not dripping with perspiration or in need of water. Slight breeze was refreshingly cooling and demands of stair climb were so slight that one was never near struggling to catch one's breath. All in all, an interesting, almost leisurely walk, if not in the park, then in the sky.
Back at base camp, we de-kitted ourselves, filled out a short feed-back questionnaire, Both of us indicated that the cost was exorbitant, (We would have been pleased to pay $100 without batting an eye.), but were certainly happy to have had the experience. Thanked our Climb Leader as she handed us our group photo and left many of our climbing companions at the picture counter. Quite well marketed as there are three large screen monitors behind the pick-up counter looping through the pictures taken at different spots on the climb. Saw the ones of Sarge and myself and two or three of them were good shots but Sarge dragged me away before I could succumb to splurging.
Short walk to the Australian Hotel, (bar there is apparently the oldes one in the country), where we had arranged to meet The Sisterhood. Most of the tables, inside and out, were already reserved for lunch, (Sarge had suggested reserving one the day before but Flamin' had talked him out of so doing!), so I ordered a cappuccino and Sarge a beer. After a few minutes we found a table for two and The Goils appeared. Sarge walked around for a bit an managed to intimidate other diners to give up a couple of chairs. We enjoyed a very pleasant lunch: gluten free pizzas available for F/CL while I had a Caesar with chorizo. WHen it arrived it was topped with chicken so I mentioned this to waiter and he brought along the sausage shortly so I had an extra topping on the hous!
After our tasty meal, F/S headed to Circular Quay to catch the ferry to Manly. Coriandre had decided to find a place to have her hair cut and I offered to pick up her shoe. I had taken it to a repair shop the day before and it was to be ready after 1:00pm. By this time it was close to 3:00pm so I left her on George Street, not far from The Rocks, and I hopped on the Monorail, back at City Centre to ride it along its one-way loop, past our stop, Convention Centre, to World Square. Picked up her shoe and then back on Monorail, enjoying watching the city pass by my window. Bought ten postcards of Sydney at my stop, (10 for $4, best deal we'd ever seen since trip began), and returned to our condo.
Once there I'd dropped off the shopping bag Flamin' had asked me to mule back to hotel so she wouldn't have to carry it to Manly and back, (I'm a tad conflicted about aiding and abetting a shopping addiction, Dear Reader!), as well as a fairly large cardboard box Cora Lee had picked up at a Post Office she'd passed that morning. It was to be filled with clothing no longer wanted on trip, plus certain other more recent acquisitions and mailed back home from Brisbane. The convoluted logic of this considerable expense fully escapes me, yet I dared not voice any opinion on this matter, having learned from bitter experience that I simply don't understand the need to bring more clothes and shoes that you could possibly need, buy more of same en route, and then not be able to close the zipper on any of your bags.
Unburdened, physically if not psychologically, I changed into my bathing suit and went for a glorious 1.5.(33) mile swim in the lap pool on the 1st Floor of the building. What a glorious find, particularly since I was only person using facility for most of my laps. Around 5:30pm a few youngsters started horsing around so I was pleased that I had almost finished my laps. I certainly didn't begrudge them their fun but it wasn't as enjoyable having to dodge them as I made my way from end to end. Pool itself was very attractively appointed, lovely dark green mosaic tile, wonderful, massive wooden beams, four or five down each side of pool, with similar beams overhead. The sort one sees in Vancouver, for example, in renovated warehouses in Yale Town and elsewhere, cut from old growth trees, I presume, when buildings of this sort were originally constructed. Quick foray into sauna to do some crunches and stretches and then
back to room to shower and change.
Friend Tim was to join us for drinks before dinner and he had said that he would arrive around 5:30pm. Coriandre was back, beautifully coiffed by 5:15pm and I set out some grapes, cheese and crackers while we waited for Tiptoe and F/S to appear. I digitated while Cora Lee watched the news and we both sipped the Warrabilla, 2008 Reserve Marsanne, 14.0%, we'd become so enamoured of since our recent visit to the winery. About 6:00pm the Manlyites returned with tales of the beach being closed due to incredibly high surf. Nevertheless, they enjoyed the outing and Sarge opened a Warrabilla, 2010 Reserve Riesling,11.5%, as the Marsanne had mysteriously disappeared. When Tiptoe hadn't called by 6:45pm I called him and he apologized for being late but he'd had an extremely hectic day at work, it being the Thursday before the Easter Long weekend, and he begged off, as he was, in his words, "shattered!" We made arrangements to meet on the morrow when he would deliver the bags we had left with him before we flew to Melbourne. After I hung up we all settled in the living room and shared the experiences of our different afternoons. This necessitated the opening of
a Warrabila, 2009 Cleanskins Durif, 15.5%, and we somehow managed to polish it off before making for Olivo, once again. We'd enjoyed the food and Isabella so much we thought we'd return. The night before she had told us she would be working that evening and she welcomed us when we walked into the restaurant, showing us to a secluded table. It was far busier than the evening before, again, the start of the long weekend, and she apologized for not being able to spend as much time with us. We understood, of course, and assured her of this. We proceeded to order, each of us trying something we'd not had before. I decided to try a slightly different rocket salad and the veal dish. Both were delicious and everyone else was similarly pleased with their food. Isabel insisted on bringing more complimentary glasses of wine but since we'd had plenty, each couple shared a second glass each.
More than satisfied with the delicious cusine, we asked for our bill and when Isabel brought it she gave us her email address as she was very keen to keep in touch. We were delighted that she felt this way, (I was going to ask her for it anyway as I wanted to send her some of the pictures I taken.), so we thanked her once more for her charming, efficient service, embraced and waved goodbye. As we strolled along the water's edge, Flamin' and Sarge decided to go for a bit of a stroll. A band was playing in a pub across the way and they thought that they'd take a look at the scene. Cora Lee was happy to return to the condo to put some ice on her foot and I knew the Diaries were desperately seeking my presence so we left The Youngsters to explore Cockle Bay by night and we walked home.
Was close to 10:30pm by the time we were back and after I sent a few messages I felt like reading rather than writing. Cora Lee had said goodnight after watching a bit of TV and was abed with her book by the time I had brushed and flossed. LOng day with Bridge Climb and swim so I managed but one chapter of Truth before I started to nod off, Cora Lee dong much the same. We whispered sweet nothings to each other and turned off our bedside lamps. Think I heard Flamin' and Sarge come downstairs but not sure if it was them or a dream about Inspector Villani and his colleagues.
To be continued...
Hi D, Sounds lovely, I'm sitting in the island inn breakfast area with a cat beside pawing at me for a second breakfast, waiting for Hydro to cut the power then to take G and G to airport and show Cody around Vancouver for the rest of the day. It is a very nice day today, sun is shining, Robins singing, so we are lucky as it rained all yesterday!!! Love to Tim and the rest of your gang. xx
From George! Emmet and Ryan!!
Picture of Quinn
The Force!
Vienna to Bratislava:
Hello again,
We had a nice train ride from Prague to Vienna. We took the metro system to
Nesrtoyplaz, and with the aid of Eric - the human GPS - found our hotel.
Wandered around the neighbourhood after checking in, and found a Billa grocery
store. On John's recommendation, we bought some Gruner Vertliner, a Zweigelt,
and a Blaufrankisch - all Austrian wines. They were all good, but the
Blaufrankisch was great!!!
The next day we bought transit passes and headed into the city
centre. It being
a Sunday, Mass was on at all the churches, and we sat in on bits in
two different
ones. Then it was off to the Museum district, where we made a point of seeing
the works of Gustav Klimnt, one of John's favourites. We also saw the
Parliament
and the Rathaus.
On Monday, we went to the Schonnbrunn Palace, where there was an Easter
Fair. Later, we went to the Opera House. Jo-Anne wanted to buy tickets -
until she saw the price!!!!!!! We went to the famous Sacher Hotel and got
some of the original Sacher torte (Jo-Anne is glad she doesn't live here -
it is a temptation she could not avoid.)
Tuesday we packed up, went to the train station, and headed to
Bratislava. Bratislava is a small place, quite compact and easy to
navigate (with an Eric). After checking in, we wandered around the old
town, found a place to eat (Slovak food), and headed back to the hotel.
On the way, I saw something I have never seen before - a line up to
get into church. No, it was not tourists going to a special site.
It was locals going to an evening service - SRO!!!
Holy Week means something in these parts.
Wednesday was time to head to Budapest.
--Bye for now
Manley Beach
Thursday, April 5th, Day 25, Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb!
Up at 5:30am as I felt rested, having turned out the light at just after 11:00pm. Upstairs, silently, leaving the Wind Tunnel Workers to themselves, to make a strong cup of java and then work on the Infernal Diaries with all quiet around me, no jeering criticism, churlish barbs, complete lack of understanding for my magnum opus! Beavered away until 6:45am when Cora Lee appeared. She was off to the hot tub and sauna, limbering up for a full day of shopping. Flamin' surfaced a few minutes later and made for the StairMaster in the gym. Sarge was last up and he made a cup of tea and ate an apple while I finished off my yogurt and apple and made ready to leave. Initially, he wanted to walk to the BridgeClimb at 3 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, but decided we might as well buy a day pass, ($10), on the Sydney Monorail as the stop nearest to us, Convention Centre, was but two minutes away. We took it to City Centre and then walked for about twenty minutes, enjoying the busy streets, filled with people hurrying to work.
We arrived at the Bridge Climb centre, occupying a significant, underground part of the approach to the Harbour Bridge itself, at just before 9:00am and forked over $208 each for the 9:15am, three and a half hour climb. Had a chance to scope obligatory souvenir shop while Sarge had a muffin. At 9:10am we climbed a flight of stairs to wait in a reception area and watched a video of what we were soon to experience, from pre-climb orientation to shots from the top of the bridge. Actually, quite a good introduction to the entire process, from clothing one would wear and how everyone would be kitted out to safety procedures, etc. Basic premise is that nobody is allowed to carry anything, from watches to money to hoop earrings, (studs are permissible), to cameras to Kleenex to bobby pins, as anything which falls to road surface might interfere with the cars passing below.
At 9:15am young man, (From Wakefield, in Yorkshire. I recognized his accent and asked if he was from Huddersfield.) He took our tickets and fourteen of us began the orientation process proper. While we filled out a disclaimer we each took a breathalyzer test, as Climb organization, (private company, nothing to do with Bridge Authority), obviously doesn't want anybody all jacked up on goofballs! With more than military precision, we stood in a circle, on dots on the floor and rotated, counter-clockwise, to be handed our jumpsuits. Next we went into another area to change in cubicles, like ones in clothing stores, and then we put all our possessions in lockers, placing the key, on a loop, around our necks. (I had wondered if I would be allowed to wear my Crocs on climb so I had borrowed Sarge's sneakers, before we left hotel as he had planned to wear his heavy duty beach sandals. As things turned out, he couldn't wear his foot gear, regulations stipulate closed footwear, and he had to put on a pair of sneakers provided by attendant! He wasn't at all unhappy with comfort and fit, by the way, Dear Reader
Once jumpsuited, (It was suggested that we wear only underwear as it was 22C and climbing, relative humidity 62%, slight breeze, 2kph), we were handed over to our Team Leader, a friendly young woman, (Neither Sarge nor I can, for the life of us remember her name.), and she took us into another area where we stood around a metal circle. I was elected guinea pig and she showed rest how to put on the safety belt which had a nifty mechanism on a small, covered line that would attach to the continuous security cable which runs the entire length of the walk/climb. Next to another station where we stood in single file while we received a radio and headset, all clipped to hooks on either the belt or the jumpsuit. Once this was done to last area where we received a cloth handkerchief, on an elastic to place around one wrist, wrapped and tucked under cuff. this was to be used for wiping one's forehead or to cool oneself after soaking it in one of r the water fountains along the way. Last two bits of gear were holders for glasses/sunglasses and one for our complimentary Climb baseball cap.
Fully loaded we were then taken to the Climb Simulator, a set of stairs that would allow us to familiarize ourselves with the procedure we would follow when on the bridge itself. Not all that difficult but it did take a little bit of getting used to walking and climbing, attached to the cable. Every metre, sometimes more, sometimes less, the tether mechanism passes over a joint, usually where the safety cable is attached to some part of the bridge structure, and unless the "teeth" in the tether ball, about the size of a fist and a kilo in weight, are properly aligned, you cannot move forward until you realign the ball. This soon becomes a reflex action but first chap up the stairs did exactly what he was not supposed to do, his companions shouting instructions below the raised platform.
When we all had completed the walkthrough we stopped at a fountain to soak our kerchiefs, (Sarge spit on the very idea!), and a drink before we entered a tunnel, cut out of the original foundation, (Cement which was removed by bore has been archived should it be decided that tunnel is be closed at some future date.), which led directly onto the first level of the bridge which we would traverse. Our Climb Leader had us face the wall and put our hands above our heads, doing a final check to make sure all our gear was secured. That done, the climb began, shortly after 10:00am. Sarge was behind me and last member of group, Climb Leader at the front.
First walkway, of narrow wooden planking, took us towards the first support pillar, on the east side of the bridge, constructed of blue granite, each massive block taking about a week and a half to dress, to make it ready for installation. Climb Leader kept up a running commentary, telling us, via our headsets, about the history of the bridge's construction as well as describing the buildings, myriad bodies of water that make up Sydney Harbour and spectacular views we could see at the various stages of the climb and from different vantage points. At this point, I should say that although we were probably about a 100' above sea level, I didn't really feel at all fazed by the straight drop on either side of the walkway. On each side there were handrails, a little over waist high so we were virtually enclosed and from this point onward I never really ever had a moment's concern about the climb. Not that I have a deathly fear of heights but I must say that climbing the Eiffel Tower in October of 2010, with Flamin' and Sarge, I experienced some trepidation, due to the increasingly dizzying height, as we made our way into the sky, at times.
In this same vein, when I climbed to the top of Uluru, (Ayer's Rock), in 2003, (issues of political correctness aside), the path one takes from the base of this remarkable monolith is up a fairly steep slope with but a rope, on stanchions, up the middle of the walkway. This path is not all that wide, probably two or three metres on either side of the rope. However, should one stumble and fall or otherwise lose one's balance and roll over the edge there is nothing but a sheer drop. Depending on where an individual happens to be on this section of the climb, (no Climb Leaders here, no safety lines), death or severe injury is the likely result. Apparently a Japanese tourist fell to his death a few years before I made the climb. His hat blew off and he went to retrieve it, near the edge, and toppled over. I kept very close to the rope railing and had my hand loosely around it at all times, until past the "Killing Zone". In my experience, many other climbers, particularly on the descent, walked down, some even at a slight jog, never bothering themselves with the security line. Again, even a slight misstep and the consequences would likely be dire.
Taking a temporary walkway that had been constructed to allow climbers to bypass some ongoing, major maintenance to the under structure closest to the south end of the bridge, we climbed some stairs, about a story or so, to stop at the last water fountain before one directly opposite, on the other side of the bridge, one we wouldn't pass until we finished our descent. We then clambered under some piping, (Sarge had to really duck down to gain clearance), through a narrow passageway paralleling the broad face of the aforementioned pilar, to reach a small platform where two other Climb employees were stationed, at the bottom of four sets of stairs that would take us to the point where we would gain access to the eastern outer span.
Woman in front of me, mother with her two teenage daughters, on school hols, confessed that she really did have a fear of heights, so Sarge and I told her that she would be fine and we chatted about her farm, (three or four thousand acres with both sheep, (2,000 or so, I think), and cattle, not far from Yass, a pretty country town we had driven through en route to Canberra), in part to get to know her but more to keep her mind off the steep ladder climb ahead. Each climber had to wait until the person ahead had reached the top of the ladder before being allowed to follow.
Although climbing the ladders is probably the most challenging part of the entire climb, even this aspect is not terribly difficult or unnerving. The ladders are at such a steep incline that one's face is almost literally level with the steps above which block most of the open space below. Once up the four ladders, you emerge onto a small patio-like rectangle, the walkway down the centre of the outer span curving up towards the peak. Once here, one could be on the balcony of any high rise as you are bracketed by handrails, the width of the span overhanging the aerial "sidewalk" by a foot, if not more, on either side. In fact, you cannot see down below, except through the massive and certainly impressive cross braces. At any rate, at this stage one of the main points of the climb is to begin to enjoy the stunning views of the city, the harbour and it's various bays and inlets.
Probably took about twenty minutes to make a leisurely ascent to the top, listening all the while to our Climb Leader or chatting with fellow chain gangers. Of course, we were afforded a stunning view of the Opera House with its iconic soaring roof. Apparently if one were able to place another Opera House on top of the existing one the combined height would equal the highest point on the Harbour Bridge. Interestingly enough, however, the Opera House weighs three times as much as the Harbour Bridge.
While those ahead of us posed, with their climbing companions, for various shots, (available later, of course, for more cash, $25 for first picture, $10 for each subsequent picture of choice. Complimentary group photo for every climber. That plus a "free" Climb baseball cap was the extent of our loot!), taken by our intrepid Climb Leader, (She had a carabiniere attached to her belt which she used to latch/unlatch to/from another secure cable running along the opposite handrail to the one we were using whenever necessary to by-pass the group or an individual.), Sarge and I took in the 360 degrees worth of view and marveled, in sheer wonderment, at the technical engineering feat of the structure, its aesthetics, its grace and harmony never lost on those who gaze upon its gargantuan proportions, in fact, the very observation enhanced by the fact of seeing it from within the organic structure of the colossal struts and its six million rivets.
Finally it was time for the aforementioned group shot, with obligatory "You are amazing", congratulations from the Climb Leader, kindergarten children receiving their gold stars as we were shutterbugged, making forced yells of exhilaration as we posed in staged positions, arms outstretched and upraised in victory, The Conquerors of The Harbour Bridge. The hoopla over, the descent down the western span was most pleasant as we scoped Darling Harbour and the bays and islands near the mouth of the Paramatta River. Neither Sarge nor I felt it was the least bit physically demanding and were not dripping with perspiration or in need of water. Slight breeze was refreshingly cooling and demands of stair climb were so slight that one was never near struggling to catch one's breath. All in all, an interesting, almost leisurely walk, if not in the park, then in the sky.
Back at base camp, we de-kitted ourselves, filled out a short feed-back questionnaire, Both of us indicated that the cost was exorbitant, (We would have been pleased to pay $100 without batting an eye.), but were certainly happy to have had the experience. Thanked our Climb Leader as she handed us our group photo and left many of our climbing companions at the picture counter. Quite well marketed as there are three large screen monitors behind the pick-up counter looping through the pictures taken at different spots on the climb. Saw the ones of Sarge and myself and two or three of them were good shots but Sarge dragged me away before I could succumb to splurging.
Short walk to the Australian Hotel, (bar there is apparently the oldes one in the country), where we had arranged to meet The Sisterhood. Most of the tables, inside and out, were already reserved for lunch, (Sarge had suggested reserving one the day before but Flamin' had talked him out of so doing!), so I ordered a cappuccino and Sarge a beer. After a few minutes we found a table for two and The Goils appeared. Sarge walked around for a bit an managed to intimidate other diners to give up a couple of chairs. We enjoyed a very pleasant lunch: gluten free pizzas available for F/CL while I had a Caesar with chorizo. WHen it arrived it was topped with chicken so I mentioned this to waiter and he brought along the sausage shortly so I had an extra topping on the hous!
After our tasty meal, F/S headed to Circular Quay to catch the ferry to Manly. Coriandre had decided to find a place to have her hair cut and I offered to pick up her shoe. I had taken it to a repair shop the day before and it was to be ready after 1:00pm. By this time it was close to 3:00pm so I left her on George Street, not far from The Rocks, and I hopped on the Monorail, back at City Centre to ride it along its one-way loop, past our stop, Convention Centre, to World Square. Picked up her shoe and then back on Monorail, enjoying watching the city pass by my window. Bought ten postcards of Sydney at my stop, (10 for $4, best deal we'd ever seen since trip began), and returned to our condo.
Once there I'd dropped off the shopping bag Flamin' had asked me to mule back to hotel so she wouldn't have to carry it to Manly and back, (I'm a tad conflicted about aiding and abetting a shopping addiction, Dear Reader!), as well as a fairly large cardboard box Cora Lee had picked up at a Post Office she'd passed that morning. It was to be filled with clothing no longer wanted on trip, plus certain other more recent acquisitions and mailed back home from Brisbane. The convoluted logic of this considerable expense fully escapes me, yet I dared not voice any opinion on this matter, having learned from bitter experience that I simply don't understand the need to bring more clothes and shoes that you could possibly need, buy more of same en route, and then not be able to close the zipper on any of your bags.
Unburdened, physically if not psychologically, I changed into my bathing suit and went for a glorious 1.5.(33) mile swim in the lap pool on the 1st Floor of the building. What a glorious find, particularly since I was only person using facility for most of my laps. Around 5:30pm a few youngsters started horsing around so I was pleased that I had almost finished my laps. I certainly didn't begrudge them their fun but it wasn't as enjoyable having to dodge them as I made my way from end to end. Pool itself was very attractively appointed, lovely dark green mosaic tile, wonderful, massive wooden beams, four or five down each side of pool, with similar beams overhead. The sort one sees in Vancouver, for example, in renovated warehouses in Yale Town and elsewhere, cut from old growth trees, I presume, when buildings of this sort were originally constructed. Quick foray into sauna to do some crunches and stretches and then
back to room to shower and change.
Friend Tim was to join us for drinks before dinner and he had said that he would arrive around 5:30pm. Coriandre was back, beautifully coiffed by 5:15pm and I set out some grapes, cheese and crackers while we waited for Tiptoe and F/S to appear. I digitated while Cora Lee watched the news and we both sipped the Warrabilla, 2008 Reserve Marsanne, 14.0%, we'd become so enamoured of since our recent visit to the winery. About 6:00pm the Manlyites returned with tales of the beach being closed due to incredibly high surf. Nevertheless, they enjoyed the outing and Sarge opened a Warrabilla, 2010 Reserve Riesling,11.5%, as the Marsanne had mysteriously disappeared. When Tiptoe hadn't called by 6:45pm I called him and he apologized for being late but he'd had an extremely hectic day at work, it being the Thursday before the Easter Long weekend, and he begged off, as he was, in his words, "shattered!" We made arrangements to meet on the morrow when he would deliver the bags we had left with him before we flew to Melbourne. After I hung up we all settled in the living room and shared the experiences of our different afternoons. This necessitated the opening of
a Warrabila, 2009 Cleanskins Durif, 15.5%, and we somehow managed to polish it off before making for Olivo, once again. We'd enjoyed the food and Isabella so much we thought we'd return. The night before she had told us she would be working that evening and she welcomed us when we walked into the restaurant, showing us to a secluded table. It was far busier than the evening before, again, the start of the long weekend, and she apologized for not being able to spend as much time with us. We understood, of course, and assured her of this. We proceeded to order, each of us trying something we'd not had before. I decided to try a slightly different rocket salad and the veal dish. Both were delicious and everyone else was similarly pleased with their food. Isabel insisted on bringing more complimentary glasses of wine but since we'd had plenty, each couple shared a second glass each.
More than satisfied with the delicious cusine, we asked for our bill and when Isabel brought it she gave us her email address as she was very keen to keep in touch. We were delighted that she felt this way, (I was going to ask her for it anyway as I wanted to send her some of the pictures I taken.), so we thanked her once more for her charming, efficient service, embraced and waved goodbye. As we strolled along the water's edge, Flamin' and Sarge decided to go for a bit of a stroll. A band was playing in a pub across the way and they thought that they'd take a look at the scene. Cora Lee was happy to return to the condo to put some ice on her foot and I knew the Diaries were desperately seeking my presence so we left The Youngsters to explore Cockle Bay by night and we walked home.
Was close to 10:30pm by the time we were back and after I sent a few messages I felt like reading rather than writing. Cora Lee had said goodnight after watching a bit of TV and was abed with her book by the time I had brushed and flossed. LOng day with Bridge Climb and swim so I managed but one chapter of Truth before I started to nod off, Cora Lee dong much the same. We whispered sweet nothings to each other and turned off our bedside lamps. Think I heard Flamin' and Sarge come downstairs but not sure if it was them or a dream about Inspector Villani and his colleagues.
To be continued...
Hi D, Sounds lovely, I'm sitting in the island inn breakfast area with a cat beside pawing at me for a second breakfast, waiting for Hydro to cut the power then to take G and G to airport and show Cody around Vancouver for the rest of the day. It is a very nice day today, sun is shining, Robins singing, so we are lucky as it rained all yesterday!!! Love to Tim and the rest of your gang. xx
From George! Emmet and Ryan!!
The Force!Vienna to Bratislava:
Hello again,
We had a nice train ride from Prague to Vienna. We took the metro system to
Nesrtoyplaz, and with the aid of Eric - the human GPS - found our hotel.
Wandered around the neighbourhood after checking in, and found a Billa grocery
store. On John's recommendation, we bought some Gruner Vertliner, a Zweigelt,
and a Blaufrankisch - all Austrian wines. They were all good, but the
Blaufrankisch was great!!!
The next day we bought transit passes and headed into the city
centre. It being
a Sunday, Mass was on at all the churches, and we sat in on bits in
two different
ones. Then it was off to the Museum district, where we made a point of seeing
the works of Gustav Klimnt, one of John's favourites. We also saw the
Parliament
and the Rathaus.
On Monday, we went to the Schonnbrunn Palace, where there was an Easter
Fair. Later, we went to the Opera House. Jo-Anne wanted to buy tickets -
until she saw the price!!!!!!! We went to the famous Sacher Hotel and got
some of the original Sacher torte (Jo-Anne is glad she doesn't live here -
it is a temptation she could not avoid.)
Tuesday we packed up, went to the train station, and headed to
Bratislava. Bratislava is a small place, quite compact and easy to
navigate (with an Eric). After checking in, we wandered around the old
town, found a place to eat (Slovak food), and headed back to the hotel.
On the way, I saw something I have never seen before - a line up to
get into church. No, it was not tourists going to a special site.
It was locals going to an evening service - SRO!!!
Holy Week means something in these parts.
Wednesday was time to head to Budapest.
--Bye for now
Manley Beach Wednesday, April 4th, Day 24
Ambition is like hunger; it obeys no law but its appetite. -Josh Billings, columnist and humorist (1818-1885)
HI D,
Sounds lovely, I'm sitting in the island inn breakfast area with a cat beside pawing at me for a second breakfast, waiting for Hydro to cut the power then to take G and G to airport and show Cody around Vancouver for the rest of the day.
It is a very nice day today, sun is shining, Robins singing, so we are lucky as it rained all yesterday!!!
Love to Tim and the rest of your gang xx
Walking/Slurping around Sydney harbour
Flamin' and Sarge have gone walkabout! Cora Lee has gone to scope restaurants for lunch and shopping possibilities while I enjoy a cappuccino and take advantage of the free WiFi! I will probably look for another cheap, large bag, while rest explore/shop. Any suggestions for where to look for luggage? Again, not a big deal, but if we can't leave our possessions with you, do you think Kevin might have room? Anyway, we can chat.
Give mr a call or flick me an email with your dinner plans when you get this
Hello all,
I have not been able to keep up with e-mail because there has been
to much to do.
As well, we had no internet for a while (the hotel had a problem, it
was the weekend,
so nothing could be done until Monday.)
Anyways, after leaving Chartres, we went to Ecole Polytechnique at
Palaiseau and
saw Eric. Looked around the campus a bit, saw his room, and then went on to the
Chateau of Fountainebleu. It was very impressive. The rooms were all
furnished as
the Chateau had been used by Napoleon, and so not looted like Versailles.
Then it was on to Orly to return the car and take the RER into Paris.
Our hotel at
Place d`Italie was very convieniently located. After cheking in, we
all went our
seperate ways. Jo-Anne and I went to the Musee d`Orsay, which has a fantastic
collection of19th century art - all the Impressionists. We also saw
the Eiffel tower,
Notre Dame, the cafe where John used to work, and the apartment where John
lived.
On Wednesday morning we all met for a last breakfast. Ruyn was taking a night
train to Venice to meet up with her son Cameron. Don was going to London to
see friends. And we were staying in Paris for another day. We spent
the rest of
the morning at the Place d`Italie outdoor market. Then we headed to Notre Dame
for a picnic lunch. Behind the cathedral is a nice little park, so we
pulled out our bread
and cheese and wine, and had lunch back of Notre Dame. The rest of
the afternoon
was spent at the Pompideau, in the Marais, at the Champs de Mars, etc.
Thursday morning Eric met us ath the hotel, and the three of us
headed out to CDG
to catch a flight to Prague. Prague is great!!!!! Love the feel of
the place. The old
city centre is full of well preserved historic buildings - not just
official sites, but homes
and businesses. Could have spent a week here, but only had two nights, and then
it was on to Vienna by train.
To be continued.............................
Hi Tippers!
F/S just returned from their Walkabout. We are going to go out shortly for dinner, at a restaurant which catches our fancy, not far from here, as Cora Lee's foot is still a limiting factor. If you have already eaten, give us a call at 0420719122 on our cell, either to join us or else to come back to our comfy pad for a drink or 11! We just finished a Bowen Estate, Coonawarra, 2011 Chardonnay, 12.5%, subtle with a lingering finish. Now attempting to drain a Warrabilla, Rutherglen, 2009 Cleanskin, Durif/Shiraz, 80%/20%, $10 btl, 15.5%. Glad that we don't have to walk very far! Cheers, Patrice!
Might try tomorrow evening for that glass or 11
Please say hello to Cody for us. Hope he enjoys his time in Vancouver. As well, give my love to Clarisse and Dusty. Wish them a safe flight and we'll be in touch about the visit, most likely in August sometime. Have to go now. Sarge and I are off to scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge tomorrow! Meeting The Sisterhood for lunch afterwards, if we survive! Much warm Love and Cheers, Dad!!!!
Hi can't wait to hear all about the bridge walk!!!!
love you, be safe!!!! xxx C
HI D,
Sounds lovely, I'm sitting in the island inn breakfast area with a cat beside pawing at me for a second breakfast, waiting for Hydro to cut the power then to take G and G to airport and show Cody around Vancouver for the rest of the day.
It is a very nice day today, sun is shining, Robins singing, so we are lucky as it rained all yesterday!!!
Love to Tim and the rest of your gang xx
Walking/Slurping around Sydney harbour
Flamin' and Sarge have gone walkabout! Cora Lee has gone to scope restaurants for lunch and shopping possibilities while I enjoy a cappuccino and take advantage of the free WiFi! I will probably look for another cheap, large bag, while rest explore/shop. Any suggestions for where to look for luggage? Again, not a big deal, but if we can't leave our possessions with you, do you think Kevin might have room? Anyway, we can chat.
Give mr a call or flick me an email with your dinner plans when you get this
Hello all,
I have not been able to keep up with e-mail because there has been
to much to do.
As well, we had no internet for a while (the hotel had a problem, it
was the weekend,
so nothing could be done until Monday.)
Anyways, after leaving Chartres, we went to Ecole Polytechnique at
Palaiseau and
saw Eric. Looked around the campus a bit, saw his room, and then went on to the
Chateau of Fountainebleu. It was very impressive. The rooms were all
furnished as
the Chateau had been used by Napoleon, and so not looted like Versailles.
Then it was on to Orly to return the car and take the RER into Paris.
Our hotel at
Place d`Italie was very convieniently located. After cheking in, we
all went our
seperate ways. Jo-Anne and I went to the Musee d`Orsay, which has a fantastic
collection of19th century art - all the Impressionists. We also saw
the Eiffel tower,
Notre Dame, the cafe where John used to work, and the apartment where John
lived.
On Wednesday morning we all met for a last breakfast. Ruyn was taking a night
train to Venice to meet up with her son Cameron. Don was going to London to
see friends. And we were staying in Paris for another day. We spent
the rest of
the morning at the Place d`Italie outdoor market. Then we headed to Notre Dame
for a picnic lunch. Behind the cathedral is a nice little park, so we
pulled out our bread
and cheese and wine, and had lunch back of Notre Dame. The rest of
the afternoon
was spent at the Pompideau, in the Marais, at the Champs de Mars, etc.
Thursday morning Eric met us ath the hotel, and the three of us
headed out to CDG
to catch a flight to Prague. Prague is great!!!!! Love the feel of
the place. The old
city centre is full of well preserved historic buildings - not just
official sites, but homes
and businesses. Could have spent a week here, but only had two nights, and then
it was on to Vienna by train.
To be continued.............................
Hi Tippers!
F/S just returned from their Walkabout. We are going to go out shortly for dinner, at a restaurant which catches our fancy, not far from here, as Cora Lee's foot is still a limiting factor. If you have already eaten, give us a call at 0420719122 on our cell, either to join us or else to come back to our comfy pad for a drink or 11! We just finished a Bowen Estate, Coonawarra, 2011 Chardonnay, 12.5%, subtle with a lingering finish. Now attempting to drain a Warrabilla, Rutherglen, 2009 Cleanskin, Durif/Shiraz, 80%/20%, $10 btl, 15.5%. Glad that we don't have to walk very far! Cheers, Patrice!
Might try tomorrow evening for that glass or 11
Al,
Ray and I are hoping to
get out on the bikes tomorrow, weather permitting, in case that works for you --
likely a late morning start time. G
Hi Guys,
Thanks for the invite but unfortunately I’m under the gun at work. It’s fun
getting back with some of the old gang at work but also business as usual
crazy decision making, unrealistic timelines but fortunately lot’s of money to
be spent! and I’m doing my best on that front. I really need to go back into
semi retirement as the work thing really cramps my style with the biking
included.
Keep me posted as it will work out one of these days.
Thanks, Al
Hi Patrick, Wayne, Corine and Michelle.
Nice to finally
hear from you from the land of funny place names. It sounds like
you’re keeping up a hot pace in wine tasting. We hope that everybody is
well, especially recently hobbled Corine.
All
is well here in the Okanagan. We’re still waiting for the weather to
warm up. We’ve hardly had a high temperature over 10 degrees C. In
spite of it, I’ve been playing quite a bit of golf to get my game in
shape for the summer. Have also got the vineyard all pruned, cleaned up
and 200 of the needier plants mulched. Attention is now on the veggie
garden which has had its spring manure dug in and some of the early
crops planted. Lynnie had her birthday on Monday, celebrated with a
nice dinner party with some of the Naramata elite who appreciated the
offerings of head chef Jugos Don Pedro. I featured Beef Bracciole, a
beautiful tenderloin barbecue recipe from the book you gave us. I found
a wonderful Argentine wine, a blend of Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet
Sauvignon called Privada from Bodega Norton. Fantastic with the beef
and great raves from everybody. I’ve been playing a bit of bridge at
the Penticton Duplicate Club – Birgitta said to say hello and I also saw
Graham at the golf club this morning.
Lynnie
and I had a great two weeks in San Miguel de Allende. Our favourite
restaurant there was a lunch spot called Muro, just west of the Jardin.
We also had a side trip to Guanajuato in advance of the Pope’s visit.
Next
up for me is a one week trip to Peru on April 23, then we’re off to
eastern Europe on May 22 for 3 weeks. What’s your schedule?
Happy travels in Aus, Peter
PS Only 4 years and 8 months until release of the Shelter Point whisky!
Hi Chloe and Cody and The Devil Cat!
Hi Chloe and Cody and The Devil Cat!
Please say hello to Cody for us. Hope he enjoys his time in Vancouver. As well, give my love to Clarisse and Dusty. Wish them a safe flight and we'll be in touch about the visit, most likely in August sometime. Have to go now. Sarge and I are off to scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge tomorrow! Meeting The Sisterhood for lunch afterwards, if we survive! Much warm Love and Cheers, Dad!!!!
Hi can't wait to hear all about the bridge walk!!!!
love you, be safe!!!! xxx C
Tuesday, April 3rd, Day 23
Although men flatter themselves with their great actions, they are not so often the result of a great design as of chance. -Francois, duc de La Rochefoucauld, moralist (1613-1680)
Tess and Adrian and Anu welcomed a new baby boy into their family.
His name is Faolan (accent on second a!) it's Gaelic, for little wolf. (pronounced (FAY-lan). 
Greetings family and friends!
Tess,
Anu and I are proud to introduce the latest member of the clan,
Faelan--"little wolf". He welcomed us into his warm glow at a furious
pace, in the wake of yet another raging west coast storm, in
the waning minutes of April first.
Warmly, Adrian
Takes a Drama Queen to know a Drama King!
Well he is related to Mayaxx
I am only dramatic when ignited via mi familia...here in Hollywood I am
known as the grounded one
Grounded One, indeed! Ground Zero!!!
Takes a Drama Queen to know a Drama King!
Keep it up and we're smothering you at 80...
You are all crazy!!!!! xxx
Picture from balcony at Rye Beach
Pat,
The Mornington Peninsula was one
of my favourite areas in Australia. We had a friend form my home town who lived
in Rosebud and we spent quite a bit time with her during our year there.
Terribly, Janet passed away several years ago.
Very pleasant evening with the
Carters yesterday and took a bottle of Kiwi Walk. They showed us their
pictures from NZ projected onto the TV screen and they intend to return next
year. Some fabulous beaches!
Mike was pleased that he and
Pauline were able to hike a 2600m mountain doing a total of 19 km. on the
day. With access to a property over there, I became quite interested in a trip
in the near future. Mike keen to have a go on the bike again, so I'll give him a
call soon and see if we can manage a short distance one day. The bike rentals
seem quite expensive. I suppose it would be a lot cheaper if you were able to
hire for a longer time but not possible when you are moving
frequently.
Easter weekend coming up and
hoping to do some more planting.
Regards to all. Ray
Mornington peninsula looks a bit like the Rock
Hi Tiptoe!
Trust you are well. Lots to relate but for now, just a couple of things. We will be staying in Darling Harbour for two nights, tomorrow and Thursday night. Wonderfing if you'd like to join us for dinner, at least one of those nights? Flamin' and Sarge would probably enjoy the Thai spot if that works for you, and Kevin, if he is available/interested. As well, wondering if we can leave another bag with you? Plan to buy one in Sydney as we are allowed two bags on Cathay Pacific and will be able to combine all the souvenirs we've picked up along the way. Let me know about dinner and what works best for you. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrice!
Greetings Patrice,
Sounds like a plan. I'll keep you posted. Which hotel are you staying at and is it in your name? Also what is your eta @ DH? Chat soon TK
At the hot springs in Rye Beach and panoramic view of Mornington Peninsula
Hi Steve
We are trying to figure out our stay in hunter valley. Can you tell me where you are staying. I believe at this point we are an hour's drive away from each other. We are thinking of trying to get a bit closer if possible. Cheers. Michele
Hi steve
Got your text message on phone that you are arriving Friday afternoon, we are staying in Charlestown which is just outside Newcastle. I can't figure out how to text on the old phones! Perhaps we can meet when u arrive in Newcastle.
Cheers Michele
Hi Tiptoe:
We are staying at The Oaks Goldsbrough Apts, 243 Pyrmont St, 612
95185166, under Sutherland. Believe we will be there before noon,
depending on traffic in City. Not sure if we can check in before 2:00pm.
Plan is to have lunch at Bondi Beach.
Can you remind me of name and address of the Thai restaurant, as well as
your cell number. Thanks. Chat soon. Cheers, Patrice!
Greetings,
The restaurant name is Khaosan and it is at 413 Pitt Street, Haymarket.
I'll check with Kevin at lunchtime as to his availability. On the
Storage front, that could be difficult as my flatmate Al informed me
that his co-owner is moving back in so Im moving out probably before the
end of the month. Never the less we can talk more tonight.
Safe driving. Tim Kelly
We are trying to figure out our stay in hunter valley. Can you tell me where you are staying. I believe at this point we are an hour's drive away from each other. We are thinking of trying to get a bit closer if possible. Cheers. Michele
Hi steve
Got your text message on phone that you are arriving Friday afternoon, we are staying in Charlestown which is just outside Newcastle. I can't figure out how to text on the old phones! Perhaps we can meet when u arrive in Newcastle.
Cheers Michele
Hi Tiptoe:
We are staying at The Oaks Goldsbrough Apts, 243 Pyrmont St, 612
95185166, under Sutherland. Believe we will be there before noon,
depending on traffic in City. Not sure if we can check in before 2:00pm.
Plan is to have lunch at Bondi Beach.
Can you remind me of name and address of the Thai restaurant, as well as
your cell number. Thanks. Chat soon. Cheers, Patrice!
Greetings,
The restaurant name is Khaosan and it is at 413 Pitt Street, Haymarket.
I'll check with Kevin at lunchtime as to his availability. On the
Storage front, that could be difficult as my flatmate Al informed me
that his co-owner is moving back in so Im moving out probably before the
end of the month. Never the less we can talk more tonight.
Safe driving. Tim Kelly
Pat or Corinne,
I am resending to this e-mail address
hoping it may work…W
P,
Pleased and surprised to learn that you
are finding the occasional tipple to keep your spirits up -- so to speak.
The alley-oop applies to you and Sarge and
the pouring of the malt -- late in the indulgence.
Big Al kindly welded the frame for me on
Sunday and the bike should be back on the road today. I took Jake out to see
his shop and witness his craftsmanship and of course they hit it off and Cobby
was thrilled out of his gourd.
Please recommend a gift in the form of
hooch for Big Al. I thought a bottle of malt would be in order. What think
thee?
Also great to learn that you are getting
out on the saddle. I am hoping to get a ride with Ray and the other laggards
tomorrow -- should the weather actually break as forecasted.
Be well and fond regards to the rest if
the Travelling Wilburys. W
Patrick,
I am just leaving work and should be home in the hour. Would you like to
do the Thai at about 7pm?
Patrice,
Just called the hotel, however they could not find your booking. Is it
booked in Dunn?
Hello Jugos Dom Pedro and LL!
Trust you are both well. Sarge wanted Peter's email so thought that I'd take opportunity to send along an entry for The Now called, Infernal Diaries! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Greetings from Bondi Beach!
Hello Goils!
Just arrived at Bondi a few minutes ago. Parked, ($21 for 2-3 hours!), and Flamin' and Sarge have gone for a swim. Wonderful day, cooling breeze, so very pleasant. Nana has gone to scope restaurants for lunch and shopping possibilities while I enjoy a cappuccino and take advantage of the free WiFi! We can't check in to our place in Darling Harbour, not far from Circular Quay and the Opera House, until 2:00pm. Not sure what we will do after that. I will probably look for another cheap, large bag as we are allowed two per person on Cathay Pacific when we fly to Japan and then back home. This way we can leave all the souvenirs and clothes we won't need in Quensland and Darwin, here in Sydney, until we return on May 1st. Virgin Blue is like all the other cheap flight airlines, inasmuch as one is really hit for more than one check-in. We also don't really want to lug stuff around. Hope to see Tim for dinner tonight or tomorrow evening. Will say hello to him for you both.
After we enjoyed lunch we made our way to from Bondi towards downtown. Since we were fairly close to where Ania lives wanted to show F/S the area, Bellvue Hill, and environs. Road we took up from beach took us into Vauclause, another gorgeous, neighbouring Eastern Suburb, (Shaughnessey would be the Vancouver equivalent), and Flamin' had a short-circuit, a la Ayn, The Drama Queen, claiming that we were "miles" from where I said we were going so I let her navigate with MapQuest after her melt-down. In fact, the route we eventually took, (my inteneded route was essentially parallel to one computer showed), once we had a better idea of where we were, a few minutes after leaving beach, had us passing not far from Bellevue Hill. By this time I'd given up trying to suggest anything, (When we arrived in Canberra, the day before, Flamin' was so set on checking intot he hotel that she refused to entertain a short drive, not really out of our way since it was directly on main thoroughfare we were already on and on which hotel was situated, towards the lake in the centre of the city and which would have afforded an overview of the various national museums, galleries and parliament building. Your Mother annd I didn't mind as we'd been before, as you know, but I thougth that she and Sarge might like just a glimpse of capital. Same held true on on our way from Coonawarra to Mornington Peninsula. She decided that she didn't care about seeing the best past of The Great Ocean Road and yet wanted to stop for views that were really nothing in comparison to ones we'd suggested they might want to see but had been bypassed because chosen route, given her demand that ioverall travel time be as short as possible, missed that section of the highway altogether. I felt, and still feel, that an hour or two more were hardly an imposition, (Would you not visit the Eiffel Tower when in paris?), but Flamin' really cannot sit still for very long. In my estimation she suffers from a severe case of "Dad, are we there yet?" Syndrome!), so we made our way, without much difficulty to the hotel, Oaks Goldborough, (A huge, huge complex, originally an incredible woolshed wharehouse, massive beams, etc., now converted into condos and businesses, offices, etc. About 25% of the units are lived in by the owners, rest are leased or rented on a short/long-term basis.), on Pyrmont Street, near the bottom, west shore of Darling Harbour.
Sarge parked across the street and we unloaded car, (took a few trips, let me tell you), and hauled our luggage tot he 5th floor where we found ourselves in a very comfortable, spacious, two-level condo: two bedrooms, two bathrooms on lower level, kitchen, laundry and open living/dining room on entrance level. We unpacked and then F/S headed out o explore Circular Quay and environs. Nana and I wanted to buy another large suitcase so we obtained directions for nearest shopping complex, just a short distancefrom our hotel. Passed one of the Monorail Stations and for $10/day it's route takes you past most places/neighbourhoods of interest in inner city. Your Mother thought it would be her choice of transportation for the following day and we learned later, that F/S had taken it as well. Anyway, once we reached the Harbour Mall, it soon became evident that shops there were reasonably high end so I knew that any bag we liked there would be very expensive. I knew there were cheaper outlets on George Street, one of main drags, not far away, so I left te Power Shopper, (her foot is still an issue and I didn't think that traipsing around looking for cheap luggage would do it much good. She was happy to staiy in air-conditioned comfort, (Think it was 27C and sunny!), while I tried to find a shoe repair kiosk for one of her 60 pairs of shoes!
we had arranged to meet F/S back at the hotel around 7:00pm and it was about 4:00pm when I set off on my quest. Funnily enough each time I asked for directions the person I approached couldn't help but a friendly passerby, overhearing my request, proffered suggestions. Found a shoe repair spot and chap said he could have strap re-attached by 1:00pm next day. Paid $10 for Imelda's favourite wlaking shoe and made for Chinatown at the suggestion of man behind the counter when I mentioned I wanted a cheap bag. Few streets away and I entered Paddy's Market, the eqivalent, sort of, of Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, and found a possible bag for $85. Thought that I'd look further and almost immediatley I bumped into a woman pulling a large, wheeled suitcase. iasked her where she bought it and it was only a few stalls away. She had picked up last one of its type but I found an even larger case fro $45. Very pleased as it was just what we wanted and at a price that made sense. A "seven wheeler" as the saleswomen was keen to show me, twirling it around with the flick of her finger!
Delighted with my purchase, I set off, through Chiantown, back to hotel, stopping at an ATM for cash and a small grocery store in Harbour Mall for yogurt and apples for the next's day's breakafast. Was backa t the condo by 5:00pm, Nana watching TV and sipping a glass of Chaarrddddddddddonnaaaaaaaaay! She'd just recently returned herself, having spent her time quite productively in the mall. I made a cup of coffee and we proceeded to amalgamate items we planned to leave in Sydney, (heavier clothing, souvenirs, and the like), before quick showers. We were back upstairs sipping wine when tourists arrived and we chatted about their afternoon. Around 7:30pm we set off for Darling Harbour. Flamin' had scoped a couple of possible restaurants that were closeby. After looking at a few menus we settled upon Olivo and were seated at an outdoor table in the covered patio area.
Special of the night was an entree and a main, with a complimentary glass of wine, white or red, for $35 per person. A very good deal,as it turned out as most of main dishes were $28-$32, entrees $9-$12 and a glass of wine $7-$9! Nana and Flamin' had shrimp, Sarge calamari and I a rocket salad with gorgonzola, roasted red peppers, walnuts and balsamic dresssing. For main courses, Nana had John Dory, a whitefish filet on a bed of scallopped potatoes, flamin a rib-eye steak, Sarge the Skippy and I chose the lamb. every dish was remarkable, perhaps one of the very meals we'd had on the trip. Furthermore, the wine was respectable. To make the evening even more enjoyable, we were served by a delightful young woman, Isabel, from Istanbul. She was lovely, gracious, friendly and we bantered throughout the entire meal. She said we were the best customers that she'd ever had inasmuch as she had never really had the sort of interaction before and felt that service and hospitality were more important than worrying about tips.
Love and Cheers, Dad!
Hello Tiptoe!
Just arrived a few minutes ago. We can't check in to our place in Darling Harbour until 2:00pm. Not sure what we will do after that. I will probably look for another cheap, large bag, while rest explore/shop. Any suggestions for where to look for luggage? Again, not a big deal, but if we can't leave our possessions with you, do you think Kevin might have room? Anyway, we can chat.
Sipping a Bowen Estate, Coonawarra, 2011 Chardonnay, 12.5% as I scribe. Will move to the Warrabilla, Cleanskin, 2009 Durif/Shiraz, 80%/20%, 15.5%. The 2009 Parola's Limited Release is 18%. Glad we don't have to walk very far! Cheers, Patrice!!!
Hi San Bernardo!
Thanks for follow up on cheque. Much appreciated! Hope to see friend, Tim, (met in 1992 in Raratonga), for dinner tonight or tomorrow evening. Will say hello to him for Chloe as she was with us on that trip.both. Time to devour our warm salad of sliced 14 hour slow roast pork shoulder with shaved zucchini, witlof, (whatever that is!), baby onions and quinoa and Bucket List's, (name of restaurant on the Boardwalk), crisp battered local fish with chips, pickles and tartare sauce. Flamin' is telling me what to so hello and goodbye from The Gang of Four! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Tippers!
F/S are just back from their Walkabout. We plan to stroll to a restaurant that takes our fancy, not far from here, as Cora Lee's foot is still a limiting factor. Call us at 0420719122 and we'll chat. If you can't make it for dinner, call anyway and come by for some Warrabilla DURIF, right from the winery, back at our comfortable pad!
Patrick,
I am just leaving work and should be home in the hour. Would you like to
do the Thai at about 7pm?
Patrice,
Just called the hotel, however they could not find your booking. Is it
booked in Dunn?
Hello Jugos Dom Pedro and LL!
Trust you are both well. Sarge wanted Peter's email so thought that I'd take opportunity to send along an entry for The Now called, Infernal Diaries! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Greetings from Bondi Beach!
Hello Goils!
Just arrived at Bondi a few minutes ago. Parked, ($21 for 2-3 hours!), and Flamin' and Sarge have gone for a swim. Wonderful day, cooling breeze, so very pleasant. Nana has gone to scope restaurants for lunch and shopping possibilities while I enjoy a cappuccino and take advantage of the free WiFi! We can't check in to our place in Darling Harbour, not far from Circular Quay and the Opera House, until 2:00pm. Not sure what we will do after that. I will probably look for another cheap, large bag as we are allowed two per person on Cathay Pacific when we fly to Japan and then back home. This way we can leave all the souvenirs and clothes we won't need in Quensland and Darwin, here in Sydney, until we return on May 1st. Virgin Blue is like all the other cheap flight airlines, inasmuch as one is really hit for more than one check-in. We also don't really want to lug stuff around. Hope to see Tim for dinner tonight or tomorrow evening. Will say hello to him for you both.
After we enjoyed lunch we made our way to from Bondi towards downtown. Since we were fairly close to where Ania lives wanted to show F/S the area, Bellvue Hill, and environs. Road we took up from beach took us into Vauclause, another gorgeous, neighbouring Eastern Suburb, (Shaughnessey would be the Vancouver equivalent), and Flamin' had a short-circuit, a la Ayn, The Drama Queen, claiming that we were "miles" from where I said we were going so I let her navigate with MapQuest after her melt-down. In fact, the route we eventually took, (my inteneded route was essentially parallel to one computer showed), once we had a better idea of where we were, a few minutes after leaving beach, had us passing not far from Bellevue Hill. By this time I'd given up trying to suggest anything, (When we arrived in Canberra, the day before, Flamin' was so set on checking intot he hotel that she refused to entertain a short drive, not really out of our way since it was directly on main thoroughfare we were already on and on which hotel was situated, towards the lake in the centre of the city and which would have afforded an overview of the various national museums, galleries and parliament building. Your Mother annd I didn't mind as we'd been before, as you know, but I thougth that she and Sarge might like just a glimpse of capital. Same held true on on our way from Coonawarra to Mornington Peninsula. She decided that she didn't care about seeing the best past of The Great Ocean Road and yet wanted to stop for views that were really nothing in comparison to ones we'd suggested they might want to see but had been bypassed because chosen route, given her demand that ioverall travel time be as short as possible, missed that section of the highway altogether. I felt, and still feel, that an hour or two more were hardly an imposition, (Would you not visit the Eiffel Tower when in paris?), but Flamin' really cannot sit still for very long. In my estimation she suffers from a severe case of "Dad, are we there yet?" Syndrome!), so we made our way, without much difficulty to the hotel, Oaks Goldborough, (A huge, huge complex, originally an incredible woolshed wharehouse, massive beams, etc., now converted into condos and businesses, offices, etc. About 25% of the units are lived in by the owners, rest are leased or rented on a short/long-term basis.), on Pyrmont Street, near the bottom, west shore of Darling Harbour.
Sarge parked across the street and we unloaded car, (took a few trips, let me tell you), and hauled our luggage tot he 5th floor where we found ourselves in a very comfortable, spacious, two-level condo: two bedrooms, two bathrooms on lower level, kitchen, laundry and open living/dining room on entrance level. We unpacked and then F/S headed out o explore Circular Quay and environs. Nana and I wanted to buy another large suitcase so we obtained directions for nearest shopping complex, just a short distancefrom our hotel. Passed one of the Monorail Stations and for $10/day it's route takes you past most places/neighbourhoods of interest in inner city. Your Mother thought it would be her choice of transportation for the following day and we learned later, that F/S had taken it as well. Anyway, once we reached the Harbour Mall, it soon became evident that shops there were reasonably high end so I knew that any bag we liked there would be very expensive. I knew there were cheaper outlets on George Street, one of main drags, not far away, so I left te Power Shopper, (her foot is still an issue and I didn't think that traipsing around looking for cheap luggage would do it much good. She was happy to staiy in air-conditioned comfort, (Think it was 27C and sunny!), while I tried to find a shoe repair kiosk for one of her 60 pairs of shoes!
we had arranged to meet F/S back at the hotel around 7:00pm and it was about 4:00pm when I set off on my quest. Funnily enough each time I asked for directions the person I approached couldn't help but a friendly passerby, overhearing my request, proffered suggestions. Found a shoe repair spot and chap said he could have strap re-attached by 1:00pm next day. Paid $10 for Imelda's favourite wlaking shoe and made for Chinatown at the suggestion of man behind the counter when I mentioned I wanted a cheap bag. Few streets away and I entered Paddy's Market, the eqivalent, sort of, of Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, and found a possible bag for $85. Thought that I'd look further and almost immediatley I bumped into a woman pulling a large, wheeled suitcase. iasked her where she bought it and it was only a few stalls away. She had picked up last one of its type but I found an even larger case fro $45. Very pleased as it was just what we wanted and at a price that made sense. A "seven wheeler" as the saleswomen was keen to show me, twirling it around with the flick of her finger!
Delighted with my purchase, I set off, through Chiantown, back to hotel, stopping at an ATM for cash and a small grocery store in Harbour Mall for yogurt and apples for the next's day's breakafast. Was backa t the condo by 5:00pm, Nana watching TV and sipping a glass of Chaarrddddddddddonnaaaaaaaaay! She'd just recently returned herself, having spent her time quite productively in the mall. I made a cup of coffee and we proceeded to amalgamate items we planned to leave in Sydney, (heavier clothing, souvenirs, and the like), before quick showers. We were back upstairs sipping wine when tourists arrived and we chatted about their afternoon. Around 7:30pm we set off for Darling Harbour. Flamin' had scoped a couple of possible restaurants that were closeby. After looking at a few menus we settled upon Olivo and were seated at an outdoor table in the covered patio area.
Special of the night was an entree and a main, with a complimentary glass of wine, white or red, for $35 per person. A very good deal,as it turned out as most of main dishes were $28-$32, entrees $9-$12 and a glass of wine $7-$9! Nana and Flamin' had shrimp, Sarge calamari and I a rocket salad with gorgonzola, roasted red peppers, walnuts and balsamic dresssing. For main courses, Nana had John Dory, a whitefish filet on a bed of scallopped potatoes, flamin a rib-eye steak, Sarge the Skippy and I chose the lamb. every dish was remarkable, perhaps one of the very meals we'd had on the trip. Furthermore, the wine was respectable. To make the evening even more enjoyable, we were served by a delightful young woman, Isabel, from Istanbul. She was lovely, gracious, friendly and we bantered throughout the entire meal. She said we were the best customers that she'd ever had inasmuch as she had never really had the sort of interaction before and felt that service and hospitality were more important than worrying about tips.
Love and Cheers, Dad!
Hello Tiptoe!
Just arrived a few minutes ago. We can't check in to our place in Darling Harbour until 2:00pm. Not sure what we will do after that. I will probably look for another cheap, large bag, while rest explore/shop. Any suggestions for where to look for luggage? Again, not a big deal, but if we can't leave our possessions with you, do you think Kevin might have room? Anyway, we can chat.
Sipping a Bowen Estate, Coonawarra, 2011 Chardonnay, 12.5% as I scribe. Will move to the Warrabilla, Cleanskin, 2009 Durif/Shiraz, 80%/20%, 15.5%. The 2009 Parola's Limited Release is 18%. Glad we don't have to walk very far! Cheers, Patrice!!!
Hi San Bernardo!
Thanks for follow up on cheque. Much appreciated! Hope to see friend, Tim, (met in 1992 in Raratonga), for dinner tonight or tomorrow evening. Will say hello to him for Chloe as she was with us on that trip.both. Time to devour our warm salad of sliced 14 hour slow roast pork shoulder with shaved zucchini, witlof, (whatever that is!), baby onions and quinoa and Bucket List's, (name of restaurant on the Boardwalk), crisp battered local fish with chips, pickles and tartare sauce. Flamin' is telling me what to so hello and goodbye from The Gang of Four! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Tippers!
F/S are just back from their Walkabout. We plan to stroll to a restaurant that takes our fancy, not far from here, as Cora Lee's foot is still a limiting factor. Call us at 0420719122 and we'll chat. If you can't make it for dinner, call anyway and come by for some Warrabilla DURIF, right from the winery, back at our comfortable pad!
Monday, April 2nd, Day 22
We should be slower to think that the
man at his worst is the real man, and certain that the better we are
ourselves the less likely is he to be at his worst in our company. Every
time he talks away his own character before us he is signifying
contempt for ours. -James M. Barrie, novelist, short-story writer, and
playwright (1860-1937)
Great Ocean Way
Great Ocean Way, my new house overlooking the beach!!
We the Canadians are a week away from our invasion. We are staying in Port MacQuarrie on the 8th and will arrive sometime in the afternoon of Monday the 9th. We just need directions and or an address. Once we have that the invasion will begin. We still have Pat but we have lots of wine to use as a sacrifice.
W Wayne A Sutherland
New Sanders Baby!!!!!
Great news! Anu has a brother to play with!
Great Ocean Way
Great Ocean Way, my new house overlooking the beach!!
We the Canadians are a week away from our invasion. We are staying in Port MacQuarrie on the 8th and will arrive sometime in the afternoon of Monday the 9th. We just need directions and or an address. Once we have that the invasion will begin. We still have Pat but we have lots of wine to use as a sacrifice.
W Wayne A Sutherland
New Sanders Baby!!!!!
Tess and Adrian and Anu welcomed a new baby boy into their family.
His name is Faolan (accent on second a!) it's Gaelic, for little wolf. (pronounced
(FAY-lan). Though they might change the spelling to Faelan. I love!
Middle-name to follow....They've been calling him that for months. Tess
"knew" that it was a boy the whole time, instinctively. And when he came
out, before she could see the baby, she said "it's a boy". Adrian looked atnd sure enough, she was right!
The baby was born last night at 11:45, after three short hours of labour. Doula came at 8:30, midwife
came at 1030, only 17mins of pushing! Tess got her second "home" birth,
which she really wanted, so we are all thrilled for her. Anu slept
through the night and doesn't even know yet that he is a big brother!
Baby did come out with cord around his neck, but the midwife got him out quick and all was well. Tess is
totally good, didn't even tear!
He looks completely different from Anu, he has curly dark hair, and hair all over his body, and pointed ears!
Talked to Adrian and he's so proud, sharing all the gory bits, I won't pass along unless asked;)
Blessed.
Lots of love to you all. Auntie Maya
Great news! Anu has a brother to play with!
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Don't worry about Bill What's His Name! Hootch is for Ragin' and please ask him to pass other package along to Larry Kazdan. Keep after Bernie as we'd like to know staus of cheque.
Dear Patrick,
Are you now done with Australia and to Japan now!
Enjoy and love to hear your updates! Daniel
Hi Pat,
Hello from Rye, Michelle!
More gorgeous sunshine for those Monday morning workers! Flamin', Sarge and Cora Lee are off to treat their overhangs at a spa while I work on The Infernal Diaries! Had hoped to rent bikes, as we did in both Clare and McLaren Vale, but we are in Rye and rental shop is in Hastings, a fair distance away, and we only have today before off to Sydney. Sarge is bound and determined to climb Harbour Bridge. I will join him as Tensing to his Hillary if we can score spots. Popular activity, it seems. The Sisterhood demur, prefering the upscale shops near Darling Harbour where we will be staying. Off to Hunter Valley for the Easter weekend where we will meet friends, Kathleen and Steve, from Bendigo. Fondestos from all the performers, misfits, charlatans and purveyors of the finest snake oils, (Flamin' is particularly enamoured of the deadly Brown here in Oz!), known to humankind c/o The Canucks Travelling Road Show! Patrizzio, Impressario/Conduttore and General Dogsbody to The Sisterhood!!!!
PS: After a bit too much Shiraz last night Corinne opined that she would rather swim with a Great White than risk dipping her toes in waers infested with box jellyfish! In Vino Veritas!!!
Hello Tensing! You need a blog for posting those images of the view from Harbour Bridge. Should you spot a great white in the distance, be sure to let Corinne know.
Chortle!
We had a lovely event on Friday - let Corinne know we sold jewelry, did well on the wine sales even without you, and are now trying to figure out our options for dues renewal.
Cheers, Michelle
Hello Harbour Terrace, (and Kathy):
Trust you and Louise are both well. Life is tough on the road, let me tell you! On the Home Front, however, am wondering if you could find out if the cheque Cora Lee put through the mail slot in the door just down the hallway, for the latest assessment, ever reached Colyvan. Checking on-line, cheque hasn't cleared yet. We are concerned that it might have been misplaced or lost. Would appreciate anything you can find out, payback for loan of roasting pan!
At any rate, hello from the Mornington Peninsula! Gorgeous sunshine for all the Monday morning workers'! Flamin', Sarge Cora Lee and I will probably go to some mineral springs this morning. Had hoped to rent bikes, as we did in both Clare and McLaren Vale, but we are in Rye and rental shop is in Hastings, a fair distance away, and we only have today before off to Sydney. Sarge is bound and determined to climb Harbour Bridge. I will join him as Tensing to his Hillary if we can score spots. Popular activity, it seems. The Sisterhood demur, prefering the upscale shops near Darling Harbour where we will be staying. Off to Hunter Valley for the Easter weekend where we will meet friends, Kathleen and Steve, from Bendigo, where we stayed with them after Melbourne.
As you might imagine, has been a busy last few days, what with wine-tasting and more cycling, most recently, in McLaren Vale. Would really like to explore, by bike, more of countryside surrounding McLaren Vale as bit of riding we did was wonderful.
Patrick,
Hello Queenslanders All!
Please accept my apologies for not writing sooner! Glad all goes well with the advance preparations for the Canucks! Much appreciated. Please expect a large load of rose petals, Elly, from McLaren Vale, as many of the vineyards have rose bushes planted at the end of the rows!
At any rate, hello from the Mornington Peninsula! Gorgeous sunshine for a Monday morning. Flamin', Sarge and Cora Lee are off to treat their overhangs at a spa while I work on The Infernal Diaries! Had hoped to rent bikes, as we did in both Clare and McLaren Vale, but we are in Rye and rental shop is in Hastings, a fair distance away, and we only have today before off to Sydney. Sarge is bound and determined to climb Harbour Bridge. I will join him as Tensing to his Hillary if we can score spots. Popular activity, it seems. The Sisterhood demur, prefering the upscale shops near Darling Harbour where we will be staying. Off to Hunter Valley for the Easter weekend where we will meet friends, Kathleen and Steve, from Bendigo. I trust all the latest high tec technology will be readiy available in Cote d'Or and Brisie otherwise your respective Chambers of Commerce/Tourist Info Centres may well receive scathing letters of criticism!!! I remain, as ever, yer 'Umble and Obedient Servant, Mate!
Canberra for the night.