Tuesday

“Australian jurors diction.” Okay - that's simple enough but … “Miss sis my.” I think it's a place in the US.

It was a funny day today - at breakfast we were all saying what a lovely day it was - too nice to be inside - but by the time I went to the car to drive to work - it was overcast and just the slightest bit yucky. What a difference 45 minutes makes. Hopefully the clouds will have cleared away in time for this afternoon's “fat banana” solar eclipse (or “ellipse” as I read several times during the news bulletin). It happens every 73 years - and is not to be confused with the coming of Haley's Comet which comes every 75 years … but where does it go in the intervening time? And from this we know that Mark Twain was 75 when he died - he was born to and died with HC. (There has to be a bit of Trivia in there somewhere.)

Pearl had snuck back to bed this morning but I managed to rouse her (with M's firm hand at play as well) … and, to her credit, Pearl is more energetic these days.

Tinka went back in with Sooz after her breakfast this morning - one of the few times she has ventured into the bedroom since she found Pearl's sheepskin-covered bed in M's room. All's fair in the furry world though because when Sooz looked in one morning last week, Pearl was stretched out on M's bed. Maggie has been around too, usually cuddling up next to Sooz on the couch while they both watch lifestyle shows!

Sooz had a good day today - mixing with the folk at Biggera Waters - one of whom is a bird feeder (like so many older women we know) and while she sat on the balcony with her, they were visited by a couple of very colourful Rainbow Lorikeets and a Butcher Bird (which would have sat on the woman's knee, she said, had Sooz not been there).

Come to think of it, it's dark in the mornings now when I get up and this morning I swear I was up before the first birdsong started. And when it started at least it wasn't anywhere near as noisy as the crow that had camped immediately outside my window and was practising its loudest calls yesterday afternoon as I tried to nap!

There was no Trivia for us last night and even though I may have been good to go, it was great to have an early night. Who knows, we might be able to get another game of Trivia happening for sometime later in the week.

I was late home this evening, catching up on some of the work I would have done yesterday had I been there and it was dark as I left for Latimers. I had completely missed the “fat banana” eclipse but I did get to see it on television - not the same I know but there was no damage of eye damage this way. Alas, there was no sign of Mr Owl as I came down the lane either.

Sooz was roasting a chicken for dinner - yum - and I'm hoping that the leftovers will be transformed into some kind of soup (chicken and corn?) for Friday night.

Monday

“I have had a luge night.” Scott Cam (as presented by the Captioners) after winning the Gold Logie last night. I think it was actually … huge.

There was no walk for Pearl and I this morning … it was raining … heavy enough for her to be wet when we got back. Best not. She didn't seem to mind too much, barely opening her eyes (let alone lifting her head) as I walked past. And I walked past a couple of times as I readied myself for work (maybe I should have stayed home … but there are a couple of things I want to take care of … and then going home might be an option).

Maccas was not packed this morning when I arrived. I'm thinking that too has something to do with the weather. Or it could have to do with their new system where you have to order McCafe things at the McCafe counter - and everything else at the regular counter. It is a pain! It even has me thinking about changing to Zarraffas for my morning coffee and toast. I'll miss Jo and Ly though, and the fifth coffee free … but everyone has their level of annoyance past which they will not go. Anyway, we'll see if that conviction holds at all.

Well, I thought I was going to work today - but I was wrong. I was dressed and up, and at Maccas, and as I was driving to work I knew I wasn't up to it and when Lars headed for home, I let him. It was just as well too because as soon as I was home I put my head down and didn't wake up for a couple of hours. That was most of the day really … the girls went out to Aqua and to run some errands and the dog barked when they were gone a couple of times, so I saw Je who was dropping off stuff for Sooz, but besides that most of the day was spent napping - and there was a bit of coughing in there as well. Sooz keeps spraying the room with germ killer stuff but at this point I think it's doing its best to get rid of me!

The only good thing about being crook is that Sooz cooks chicken soup (it has wonderful medicinal qualities because of the love that goes into it) and brings home nice things. I had requested pie for tonight and she picked up Wagyu Beef Pies from Ferry Road. Yum and yum.

Tinka does seem to have been in the wars of late. We know she spends her late afternoon up the back near the stables … but still comes down to have her dinner - although she does have to be called a couple of time … but she does come. M was checking her out yesterday, and as well as the scars under her chin she has a graze on her forehead near her ear now. It doesn't seem to be bothering her but M is sufficiently concerned about it to be wondering what (or who) it is that Tinka's playing with.

Sunday

Well there was another day that wasn't. I am a bit over the Lurgy now ... although it hasn't quite let go yet. I managed to raise myself from bed at midday and was surprised to find that Sooz hadn't gone to the Markets either. M had waited for her - making some noise in the kitchen - but that hadn't been enough to rouse her.

Milo and Mouse's Anzac biscuits are amazing ... that was lunch today as I sat out the back waiting for the sun to shine on Latimers. It didn't not really - it was patchy overcast and there was a zephyr of a breeze about. That wasn't the concerning bit though ... it was all the ants - in the loungeroom and also out the back where I was sitting. I haven't seen so many of them for a long time ... and, if I were a betting person (which I'm not really - even though I do enjoy a game of Numbers for the mental stimulation and challenge) I'd have to say that some serious rain was on its way.

Then it was time for another nap ... I thought I was going to read some more of my book "Amy Falls Down" so I could do some more screen clippings for Sooz, and I did manage half a page before sleep overtook me again ... and still no sign of Tinka in the bedroom although she did sit out the back with me and look like she wanted some Anzacs but refused each time I actually offered her.

M came home at cat-feeding time, bearing coffee and cake - very nice. Then she was off again (after spending the day at the Markets and then out and about with Mouse) - while Sooz and I had home-made chicken soup for dinner (thanks Sooz!), and I did the Mouse puzzles, and powered up the computer to burn a copy of the Criterion photos for St - and had just finished when Ni rang to say they wouldn't be at Trivia tomorrow night ... they will be in Brisbane instead. D'oh. Bu it's good because it's the launch of their French online competition again and since Ni's "team" won last year there should be recognition of her at the dinner.

Saturday

I nearly didn't do breakfast today and given what a foul mood I descended into later in the day, I should have listened to myself ... the first time when I said I wasn't going rather than the second time as I snuggled deeper into the bed and decided that if Sooz wanted to go to breakfast we would. And she did ... coming in just after 8 to ask if we were going. Of course. It's Saturday.

It should have been a sign of sorts when Daniel Stuarts was closed ... An was there first and phoned to let us know - just as we were at the roundabout down the street. Change of plan ... I went around the block to see if 4215 was open ... but not ... so we decided to relocate to the new centre over on the Isle of Capri.

M had been off to DWR this morning and was the last one to arrive for breakfast as she was helping one of the class members celebrate her birthday. She'd been later to class as well because she had stopped on the way out of Latimers to talk with La ... 81 days later there has been no substantial change ... Ca is still in Intensive Care.

It was good to catch with An after her time in Melbourne helping her niece who has been having some quite major and serious family issues. It has given An a different view of the world and an idea of something she might like to do in the future ... especially now she has retired and will have more time on her hands.

Syl didn't join us for breakfast ... she was on her way to PI to pick up the caravan ... Their sale is almost finalised and this will be the last thing to make it off the Island. While she's there, Syl was going to do the last bit of vacuuming and I think An mentioned something about a pre-settlement inspection - so hopefully all that will go well.

Sooz and M went off to see "Chinese Puzzle" after breakfast - the third in the trilogy - and I said I'd wait for Sooz to drive her home. Big mistake. I should have just let M drive her home because by the time they emerged from the Cinema, I was not fit to be with. I went straight home to bed then ... and totally missed the excitement later in the afternoon of Syl manoeuvring the caravan into the stable's carport. Sooz said it took her a few tries but anyone who knows Syl would have known that she wouldn't give up until it was safely tucked away! She is a remarkable woman.

The rest of Saturday was a bit of a blur for me ... I remember getting up, Sooz following me back into the bedroom, M saying something about birthday cake at the Markets tomorrow for Nu and Va ... And then that was it for the next few hours. I was out like a light ... managing to drag myself out of bed for a Milo and a couple of Anzac biscuits (that Mouse had sent home ... absolutely wonderful!) and some television just as everyone else was going to bed (at 9:30!!). I took myself back to bed a bit later after watching the end of ... and then the beginning ...(in that order thanks to Foxtel's SYFY and SYFY+2) of the "Age of Dinosaurs" before beating a retreat back to bed ... but without Tinka this time.

Friday

It was another Anzac Day when I didn't make it to the Dawn Service. I did think about it last night but it just did not eventuate ... but this morning I have been thinking about war and the part it plays in the world. And the sacrifices, sometimes at such an horrific price, that many have made in its name ... or should that be in the name of "peace".

The lane was very quiet when Pearl and I walked down this morning. I'd taken the camera in case the blue finches were out - but there wasn't a one - and the horses were all up this end of their paddocks, mostly standing under trees which were casting their shadows onto the laneways. The horses will have a few hours to wait until the sun is more overhead before they find any shelter there.

Tinka came out the back with me this morning while I was catching up on some correspondence and drinking in Latimers. It really is wonderful sitting out the back, watching the birdlife, and trying to pick what has changed since the last time. The banana trees are growing very well and I note, for the first time, although I think I did hear Syl mention this, that the table and chairs that used to be there are now not. Was a coat of paint mentioned?

Pe's man has done a wonderful job clearing out under and behind the bohemia tree. It presents no obstacles for mowing now - except the slight incline behind - but that shouldn't be an issue for M who has more of an understanding - and a lighter seat - than some of the rest of us. She has been doing a great job of keeping the grass in check around the house and in Hermes' yard.

I went over and checked the horse water ... after I'd filled the dog bowl with water for Tinka who kept looking into it and not taking a drink - possibly because the water was too low - or more possibly because she enjoys the casino water in M's room more! I'm not sure what any of them are going to do when their Mother is away ... but M says she has been gradually introducing more Latimers water into their bowls in preparation for the casino water drought.

Hay ... job done! M is reorganising things before Syl arrives with her caravan which is going to swap places with the tractor, after "Bertha" moves back to her original place in the carport, which means moving the bales of hay that have been living there. So the hay has moved and now the others items can be juggled. And they were. I was impressed when M backed the tractor (with slasher attached) into the shed. Apparently that was where it used to live - and it just fit in. The only problem is going to be if it rains - it will need to be covered - but, as yet, there is no rain forecast for the weekend ... as we know, though, that has never stopped it before.

M and Mouse had brunch in at TBH today and after there they went off "visiting" - Mi and then Az.

Sooz and I had a quiet day at home although I did pop out at one point to return the DVDs from last week, and renew a couple of them. Then I spent the day trying to stay awake - but not that successfully. I finally gave in at 9 and took myself off to bed, grateful that Tinka came with me to purr me into Dreamland.

Thursday

Anzac Eve, that's what Me's father wanted to call her when she born on this day a few years ago. I wonder how they're faring on the vineyard.

Pearl and l went on our walk down the lane this morning just a tad later this morning - and that made all the difference because it was lighter this morning - not much but enough.

Balloon

Then, there was a hot air balloon hanging over the valley as I drove out. I stopped to take a photograph (or two). It still has me confused in the valley - which direction things are in. I wasn't sure whether I would see it again on the way into Nerang or if it word be off in another direction entirely.

With thether lists on her tail … or it could have been “tehter lists” but in any case unless you had been able to hear what the newsreader was saying you might not have been able to interpret this as “terrorists” - although once you know, it's easy enough to see what the captioner meant.

I remember years ago, Te used to read to her children at bedtime, and she would substitute words ftor the written ones. The kids thought it was great fun and today they certainly are some of the more interesting people of this world. Mind you, Ro was one even then … and I believe it was he who coined the term that comes to mind whenever I think of the T-Rex … it and its “ridiculously short arms”. It does make you wonder just how different the world may have been today if the T-Rex had something other than “ridiculously short arms” … and how it could catch and hold prey if it couldn't use its arms (or were they really legs) to keep it in place. Ah, how wonderful is the animal kingdom and all it holds?

Sooz's show "Call the Widwife" is back on (l think it's Season 3) and she watched it while M and I went to CSP - or Numbers. Sooz had Noodlebox for dinner - I'd picked some up at lunchtime - we had Tuckshop Thursday today - it's a holiday tomorrow so there will be no Tuckshop Friday. The Shank Special is still on at TBH and M and I weren't the only ones having it. It was still as good. We played Numbers upstairs - good because they have a bar - which had orange juice, ice and a blender - and someone who knew how to use them - the drink was gloriously cold on my lurgy throat. The good news was that M did well and after being down to two chips I managed to get my stake back and a couple of dollars to share with Sooz.

We set out for home a little later than usual as it wasn't a school night. I could have stayed a little longer but M suggested not and since she was the driver, I couldn't argue ... well, I could have, but didn't ... much.

 

Wednesday

It used to be that Wednesday was Bingo Day for the girls but it seems to have become Aqua Day ... because the class numbers are still down and they are helping to boost them so the class can continue. It's a good thing to do.

Sooz doesn't seem to be quite as bothered by the bites today - although she still has big red welts up and down her legs to show where they bit her.

I had an early start this morning and it was still not light when Pearl and I walked down the lane. The lights at the stables were all ablaze - I think it has something to do with the way their fur/hair grows during the winter months. If they have lights on at night - to simulate sunshine - it keeps their legs non-furry. I think that's it anyway. Pity it doesn't work with people ... or does it?

There's something happening with phone reception here at Latimers. Last night Optus went off almost completely with SOS Only available. Sooz and I have the problem - although M apparently doesn't it. It was still playing up this evening - which made it very difficult when I was waiting for a security code from the bank. I had to go part-way down the lane before I managed to get a signal ... and by the time I walked back in the front door, it was gone again. Thank goodness for iPhone 5's though ... because at least I had a torch for my wander in the dark. Did I hear scary noises ... you betcha ... but I managed not to run back.

Amazingly, just as I was saying how woeful the service was ... and that I had checked online this morning and they had reported no issues in the area ... the dots showing coverage came back and zoomed right up to five. And then it did the same on Sooz's. We're back on the grid.

I ran into AnM at Maccas this morning (I was there for a brief moment before I went into work early) and she and Na are keen to go to Trivia again. I've said that we're not going until at least next week - so I'll start checking to see who's up for another Trivia at Tallai Golf Club so soon. The good news is that the cash jackpot starts back again next week ... so that would be a good incentive.

Tuesday

The lurgy continues and I allowed myself to stay in bed until after 7 - forgoing Maccas to allow me to catch just a little bit more rest.

I thought I was going to stay only half a day or so but as it turned out I managed to stay the whole day and I think ... well, I hope ... I was productive for most of that.

Sooz was too ... she worked today and when she texted me this afternoon, it was to say that M was taking longer at the dentist than anticipated and was running a few minutes late. It was worth it though, because the dentist did a great job. M was pleased with the job as well - and with good cause.

Did I mention that Sooz cancelled our Trivia last night ... she called it early - when we were on the way home - so I didn't have to worry about pretending to be okay for it. From what she said, the others weren't absolutely disappointed that it wasn't a happening thing ... and I don't think they went without us.

Pearl didn't get her walk with me this morning - but neither did I ... it is amazing how much darker it is in the mornings now. And it was getting dark when I drove home as well. I don't think it's going to be long before I'm driving to work and home in the dark. Whatever happened to daylight savings?

The furries are all well - and even though I asked her to, Tinka didn't stay in with me last night. I can't say I blamed her ... but she did have some of my dinner ... she likes cereal milk! Pearl could have had some too, if there had been any left ... like I said, Tinka likes cereal milk!

There has still been no word on how Ca is progessing. M had told us about a week ago now that the doctors wanted to meet with La and Yv ... and it didn't sound like it was going to be good news. But, she was still hanging in there.

Monday

Doors are amazing things! We were at We's overnight together with Te, her little ones, Ow and Ch but when they were up and down at various stages, Sooz and I heard nothing - as long as the door was closed. If it was open it was like they were in the room with us!

Mi, 4 years old, decided she would help me put my shoes and socks on this morning. She's not bad - and she has improved since the last time she did it ... then she just held one end of the lace in one hand and the other in the other and just moved her hands around quickly. This time she actually managed to cross the laces - and then when I took them and tied them ... and as I finished she said, in what was like awe and amazement ... "how do you do it so fast?". I told her when she is as old as I am, she will probably tie them as quickly too. That's if they still have laces then ... because it will be a few years before this actually happens.

We was busy at Mum's this morning doing her hedge trimming - and we met her down there to have breakfast (why is it that the stores have sold out of Hot Cross Buns already?) - which turned out to be toast and vegemite - and very nice it was for a change too.

Did I mention that We has the lurgy? She's had it for a couple of days apparently - but she wasn't so attached to it that she wouldn't consider giving some of it away. Of course, it may just be a coincidence that I started feeling unwell today - and when we arrived home, I took myself off to bed for a nap - which turned into more than a nap. I managed to rouse myself long enough to send off my entry for the Clique competition - which turned out not to be a shot of the Cats Cycling Club but of Pa at the Supanova Exhibition.

Then it was back to bed - and I set the alarm for later than I usually do, not entirely happy that I have to go to work tomorrow but I have to because the wages are due the day after and, you know, I'm the bunny (fairly appropriate at this time of year) who's doing it this time since Le is away.

Sunday

Cats

Easter Sunday - and we were off to Toowoomba for a family lunch. We had a good trip up which was fortunate because we were cutting it a little fine to get up there in time for lunch. It was my fault - I'd previously arranged to take some photographs of St and his cycling club. And that would have been fine had lunch not been earlier than we thought. Luckily M had offered to drop Sooz over at HarbourTown so I didn't have to go back out to Latimers to pick her up, and she didn't have to be up incredibly early to come with me.

It was good to catch up with everyone at lunch - sitting in the sunshine out the back at We's, eating, drinking, relaxing. The kids were great fun - even though you had to be cautious when approaching them because they had been eating chocolate for most of the morning - and it was just about everywhere. Their mother did wipe Ka down a few times but it didn't take him long to become Mr Chocolate Face again.

More Cats

Te, the kids, Sooz and I all stayed at We's tonight - which made for a bit of a tight squeeze but it was great fun. Sooz had slept most of the day - a hangover from the tablets she's been taking to control her bites from the other day. She was feeling the effects in the car on the way up - I turned around at one stage and she was fast asleep - not something she usually does in the car at all. We was able to give her some ointment to help her with the itch, so at least she was able to get a decent night's sleep tonight. That was going to be touch and go though because she (and I) was excited about meeting We's friend To - even more so when he did a card reading for her.

 

Saturday

Today is Shakespeare's 450th anniversary - Sooz saw it in the paper this morning. We were at Maccas at the time - so Sooz could have pancakes for breakfast. She wasn't the only one - Mouse had made pancakes for the working party around at her place. They - Fl, Et, Am, Le - were over to clear out under the house - and they managed quite well. M went over to offer moral support - Mi called in for morning tea and Ma called in for pancakes as well - and took the leftovers home with her. Hmm, they would have found a good home here as well. But the good news is that Mouse sent home some borscht and Vereneki. Double Yum.

M was full of admiration for Et today - and his ability to organise and pack a skip. He wouldn't let anyone else stow things into it and there's now only a narrow slot to be filled and then there's just room on top for some doors and a mirror. The boys couldn't fit everything in the skip and they made a trip to the tip with a refrigerator - and took some scrap metal for sale. They haven't finished get though. We're not sure when the next working bee is scheduled for but it does seem as though they do good work.

Sooz and I had a quiet day at home - much like yesterday - and it's been great although I'm feeling just a little guilty that I wasn't at least a little productive this afternoon but I'll get over that.

There were no sounds of mowing at all in the valley today so everyone must have finished what they needed to do yesterday. And it does look good!

Did I mention that Sooz and I called into the video (now DVD) store yesterday on the way here. She was after parts one and two of a trilogy - the third part of which is currently showing at the Gold Coast Arts Centre. I think she's planning to see it with M but wants to see the others first if she can. She managed to find the second - so we'll have to look further afield for No. 1.

The bales of hay are safely in the carport now and when we arrived home from Mouse's last night (no owl was sighted on the drive down the lane) we found Tinka perched on top of the hay, looking comfortable and Lion King all at the same time.

On the way home this morning, Sooz and l called in to Coles in search of Easter goodies - and the store had almost been picked clean. Luckily it wasn't completely empty and we did find enough - but there wasn't much variety. We'll have to Target next time! Or shop a little earlier.

We decided not to go to the dance at Kirra tonight - wouldn't do to have another Saturday night out; especially as I have an early start in the morning to photograph St and his bicycle!

Friday

You have to love sleeping in - well I do because I don't get to do it that often - sometimes out of choice sometimes necessity. Today I set the alarm for 8.05am. And that's when I woke up - and as soon as I was, I realised my my calf was in spasm, cramping. Sooz came round and massaged it and as soon as I could walk, I went for some magnesium and then a hot shower. That seemed to settle it quite nicely. Good enough for me to finish getting ready so Sooz and I could go to breakfast at The Big House. It was good ... very good - especially their toast. It was odd though to see the Casino closed (it has been since 3am and it won't re-open until midnight) - and the mother taking her young daughter over to the crowd control barrier and pointing to all the flashing lights inside the Casino - it may have been closed but it wasn't "off".

1 was planning to go to Surfers Paradise to watch part of the street entertainer (busker) competition - and maybe take a photo or two - but as we were finishing breakfast I was overcome with tiredness and decided that home was the best place for me to be.

It was mowing day in the valley and all over Latimers there was the sound of ROMs and tractor/slashers. M wasn't being left out and she was in Hermes' yard on ROM. She says it is going well since it came back from being serviced - new blades were fitted too - and the deck was levelled again. And who knew it has been at least eight weeks since I gave Hermes an apple or carrot - apparently his yard hasn't had a horse in it for that long ... which is why we need to keep an eye on the level of the horse water - which has now become bird water. M was telling me that if the water level gets too low, birds can overbalance into it as they're trying to get a drink and topple in - and once they are in, they can't get out.

A year ago today (as Good Friday not the 18th of April) M and I pruned the tree - and we did so again today - the street-side anyway" Mouse helped M do the house side last week. And we had FnF dinner this day last year - but this time it was at Mouse's - Borscht and Vereneki - not the Sheesha Bar's Mezze Plate. It was a great dinner - Mouse had excelled herself - after most of the day spent baking and cooking, we demolished dinner in fairly record time. Mi was ravenous tonight - more so then I've ever seen before; M commented that it was like she was eating for two and then quickly dismissed that idea.

The Easter Eggs from The Big House didn't make it to dinner - M had left her bag at home - but she had excelled herself by surprising us all with Lindt Gold Bunnies. Yum! She had remembered that Fl's favourite is White chocolate and she'd found him a White Gold (heh heh would that be Platinum - no perhaps not... the interweb suggests that while White Gold is an ingredient in Platinum, they are not the same) Bunny.

Thursday

It was a bit cooler this morning - about 12 degrees. I was a bit surprised because it has been quite warm of late - unseasonably warm for Autumn. It's supposed to be sunny for the Easter Break so we'll see it that means it will be as warm as it has been or whether we will experience our first cold spell of the year.

I'm not saying I was tired this morning but l did mistake a can for a plover - but not for long. That being said, it did make me realise how much rubbish there is roadside. I'm not sure if I am surprised that most of it appears to be wrappers from fast food stores - one in particular. I'm not sure how people can just throw rubbish out of cars like that but it seems like there's more than one person at it.

I don't think the small kangaroo I saw by the roadside had anything to do with it! It was thrilling to see it - especially as it made no attempt to approach the road. It stood there for a moment before bounding back over a fence into a paddock.

Well, it is official. I really have no understanding of the phases of the moon. Yesterday when I walked Pearl the moon was hanging low in the sky, not far above the horizon. This morning, at the same time, give or take a few minutes, the moon was still high in the sky and not looking like it was going anywhere. And don't even get me started on the Sun!

Sooz had another good day at work today although it was a bit all over the place - it is the day before Easter and there was a Mass on - and some of the folk she was scheduled to see had gone there instead. So she caught up with some of her afternoon people in the morning and vice versa. She came back with some interesting stories including one that was heartwarming and touching. A woman was receiving a visit from a man she took to be her husband. As the Nurse Unit Manager told Sooz later the man had been the husband but they had divorced some years ago - but the woman had no recollection of that and only knows on some level that her "husband" visits her twice a week - and she will continue to believe that. He must love her very much. And she him.

I parked on the other side of the carport today. M has arranged for a load of hay to be delivered. It's not here yet but it should be soon. M's putting it on that side of the carport to try to protect it from any inclement weather we might have.

It wasn't terribly busy at The Big House tonight but busy enough in Spinners. I had the Shank special which was much nicer than I'd thought it would be - especially the mashed potato and the vegetables. Yum. It was a shame the numbers weren't falling the right way tonight but that's the way it goes sometimes.

Sooz was still watching television when M and I got back to Latimers. Alas, there here no chips, leftovers or water for her this time. But there are Easter Eggs which may make an appearance at dinner at Mouse's tomorrow night.

Wednesday

We were back at Tallai for Trivia tonight. We were six. Sooz, M, Ni, AnM, Na and I were FTL for this outing. It was just our second time at Tallai and I was very disappointed when they told us the cash jackpot bonus round wasn't happening tonight - and wouldn't until the usual quiz master returns in a fortnight. D'oh. But it was a good game even without the cash round. We tied for first - but would have won outright had we not twice pointed out that our answers had been either marked or tallied incorrectly a couple of times. Makes me wonder what the other markings are like. Still it was a great game and everyone had something to contribute. The most amazing for me was when Na (and who knew her French connection) answered correctly that the sole survivor of a volcanic eruption which killed nearly 30,000 people had been locked in a prison at the time, forgotten as everyone ran off to save themselves but not necessarily to safety.

Moon shot

The girls went to Aqua today instead of Bingo. The class numbers at Aqua are down and I thought I heard them say the class was in danger of being axed - so they went to bolster the numbers. And I think Sooz enjoyed her third water exercise activity this week - or was that in the last five days? Either way, it's a great effort.

Sooz and M were lucky enough to see a big kangaroo on their way in. I haven't seen one (big or small) for ages. And the owl wasn't there when we drove back down the lane tonight. I hope that doesn't mean we've seen the last of it for this season.

ROM arrived back today. It was in the carport when they arrived back from Aqua and while Sooz had a nap, M did the mowing. It looks great

 

Tuesday

It was a full moon eclipse tonight and for a while there I was worried I was going to miss it. It was due to start at 5.27pm and that was about the very time that they ushered me in to take a seat with the podiatrist. Then I had a couple of errands to run - and it was as I turned into the lane almost at Latimers, just before 6:30, that I thought I'd missed it ... surely it had to be over... but no, there was a red Moon over Latimer. M and Sooz came out to have a look as well and agreed it was magic - which it was.

M was trying to get Pearl to have a howl at the moon, but Pearl wasn't having any part of it - even though M was demonstrating exactly how it was done.

I'd finished Mouse's puzzles this morning at breakfast so I was able to give them to M to post when she went out this evening. This way they have a much better chance of getting to Sydney in time for the competition close - especially since Easter is at the end of this week.

Sooz had a lucky escape this afternoon - she had a fall near the back door - and M was with her so she was able to quickly swing into "looking after the patient" mode - and this is what was happening when I rang. It was good I had too, because I had missed Sooz's message saying they had been to the Post Office - which would have been my next stop after the Podiatrist. Sooz seems to be okay but it will be interesting to see how she pulls up in the morning.

It was her first day back at work today and she enjoyed it although a few of her people have gone to ... whatever it is they believe in. The others were in good form though.

Pearl's sense of smell has returned, I know this because she is now able to correctly tell which of my hands her suppertime cookie is in - without me having to have part of it showing, in taking this to mean that those extremely hard to deliver antibiotics have done their job!

 

Monday

Trivia - and definitely one of our worst showings for a while. We were lucky to scrape in over 60 and considering the winners had 72 and there was a three-way tie-break for second with 71 - there was some decent competition on the night. Even had we chosen different bonus rounds (we managed only 5 out of a possible 10 in one of them) we would have still placed a long way from the podium.

On the home front, there was better news. Pearl received a clean bill of health when she had the x-ray at The Tevs today. Seems the only thing wrong with her is the Cushings Disease which mucks with her immune system. Still, she's lethargic and a bit puffy but it's good to know she is okay.

Today marks our fourth anniversary at Latimers ... actually the fourth for Sooz and Emma. I arrived on the 15th. Pearl was in dispatches then as well - she'd a run in with a tick.

The moon was gorgeous tonight ... and it could be an Easter Moon - it's not a PassOver moon because Sooz was telling me that was last week - and I know she knows.

Sunday

&0% of our ingredients are organic! That's The Meditation Farm vegetarian food and drinks sign at the front of their stall at the Markets. It would be interesting to know which 80% and whether 80% rather than 100% really makes that much of a difference. Ah the things we ponder when we have a little time on our hands ...

I went in early today - I was planning to do some photographs (didn't happen) and to make the call with Tr so I would be on time for the Markets. Sooz came in with M - and weren't that far behind Mi and Az - who were ... late. The surprise "on time" folk were Fl and Mi who arrived before 9am!

Otherwise it was the usual crowd - but without those noisy bird alarms - Fl turned the system off when he arrived - and it really does make an enormous difference.

After The Markets Mouse, M, Mi, Sooz and I went to the Gold Coast Arts Centre to see "The Budapest Grand Hotel". I am still thinking about it - and how they can wrap such a serious message in something that presents as a farce. On The Movie Show (or whatever it's called these days) Margaret had given it a 5, and David, a 4.5. We could see why!

Saturday

Well, that's 22 minutes of my life that I'll never get back .... or maybe it was a little less than that when you consider I read The Bulletin as well. The task at hand - changing the AG1 batteries in my keyring torch. When I got it, the batteries - four of them - were in a tiny plastic tube that slid out of the battery compartment as one. Getting new ones in (because I had inadvertently managed to leave the torch turned on in my pocket) proved more difficult as they had to be done individually (I tried but couldn't get them to go in the plastic tube) - and there was enough room in the barrel of the compartment tube for them to turn over - in some cases more than once - as they settled - mixing up the polarity and making the torch unwilling to work. But I did finally get the pieces to fall the right way - and hopefully I have worked out why I keep turning it on without meaning to so that should conserve/preserve the battery life.

Looking up the coast

Breakfast this morning was good ... again at Daniel Stuart's - with Sooz and M direct from their Deep Water Running, Syl on her way to the Library and me looking for a good cup of coffee and perhaps the read of a free newspaper. Sometimes I like the feel of the paper and turning the pages to see if there's any better news further in ... and the comics of course ... and puzzles.

Sooz had a haircut after breakfast - or before lunch because she managed to get an appointment in Nerang at noon. I hung around a coffee shop and read papers and ... changed the batteries in the torch.

Then it was home for a nap before going out to see Co and Da - but M had already beaten us! She had not been feeling and decided to come home to sleep it off before she goes to the Las Vegas show this evening with Mouse.

Co and Da and the kids were great. It was wonderful catching up with them as we sat on their balcony looking up the coast to Surfers Paradise. The kids can see the airport runway from their bedroom so they were pretty pleased too.

Friday

Misty morning.

Today was a good day and certainly a beautiful morning with a mist hanging over the valley as I drove out.

I had breakfast with Jo in Ormeau. I was supposed to see the Doc this morning but somehow the admin at the Medical Centre managed to book me for an appointment with a doctor I don't see - and no chance of seeing the one I do see as she doesn't work on a Friday. They obviously don't realise that I drive half an hour to get there and have to make up the time at work - so having them get it wrong is more than just mildly annoying. But I did manage to make it in to work an hour earlier than planned. Ah well, I've made another appointment and hopefully the Doc will be there for that one.

Work was more playing with numbers (of the accounting type this time) and devising some new systems for the next stage of the road works. It would be a much easier task if the switch to the new corporate accounting package was finished, reliable and a known quantity. Maybe next week!

Pearl had a visit to The Tevs today. She's going back on Monday for an X-Ray... not a scan - so they won't need to shave her. Just as well too because her fur hasn't grown back from the last time yet.

The other big news of the day is that M has bought the tickets for her and Mouse's trip so that all makes it very real. M has already started getting presents to take to the kids and she showed us some of them this evening - clothes, stationery, fun things. I'm not sure who will get more fun out of them - M or the kids... especially the slapbands. Smiggle is having a competition at the moment where the winner gets one of every item in their Safari range. I wonder, if M won that, would there be any room left in her suitcases?

M was out this evening so Sooz and I had a quiet night in with the furries. Pearl is still a little low key but more alert than she has been in the past few days - a visit to The Tevs can do that for/to a dog.

Tinka was being a little ... hmm not sure what the right word is ... but when lockdown came, I couldn't find her inside the first couple of times - and then on the third of fourth time out, Sooz called out to let me know that Tinka was inside - and must have been inside from the start. Maybe she was set up under the bed again - that was probably the only place I hadn't looked.

Thursday

The day dawned bright and cloud-free - a nice change from the rain. This means we have not been interrupted in the road works although the long term forecast is not so fine.

As I sat having my coffee and toast at Maccas this morning, Ly was handing out free chocolates and when she reached me, she said open your bag - and tipped a cup full of chocolates in. "Give them to the people at work" she told me. How could I refuse?

Sooz had an almost quiet day here except there were visitors - P came to have a look at some work M wants done around the place; then Je arrived - and she was not in a good way. So Sooz offered her a friendly ear and ended up quite drained afterwards. It's been quite fraught for her lately with people she knows and/or cares about undergoing not so nice things. Is there more of it happening? Probably not but it sometimes seems that way.

M and I did a run in to The Big House for dinner at Zen. While the food there is very nice ... the water there is absolutely amazing! It is, and I kid you not, the best water I have tasted on the Gold Coast ... and they must know I like it because they just keep bringing it. And unlike some other Thursday nights, there were people at the numbers table when we arrived ... so we sat down to watch ... okay, play.

Sooz was still up when M and I arrived back at Latimers - and she was happy to take receipt of leftovers, a bottle of water, and a couple of chips straight from the numbers table.

Wednesday

Wednesday. Bingo Day ... and there were some WAGs. In fact, half of the four were - yes, usually they are five but this week An had rung to say she couldn't make it.

Pearl has still not fully recovered from whatever the infection in her nose was. We've all noticed that she's a bit lethargic and not her usual happy dog self. She's still very difficult to give her tablet to - and now, if M has already handled the tablet Pearl won't take mince from her - possibly because the smell of the antibiotic clings to the last person it touched (or who touched it).

Sooz and I had Mouse leftovers for dinner. That woman really can cook! And Sooz reheats things very well. It was corned beef this time... and why do they call it "corned beef" if there is no corn involved?

M mowed yesterday which is why ROM has gone off for a service today. The deck seems to be crooked again and that makes for a very uneven finish.

Tuesday

Mmm ... doughnuts! Mouse had business in Nerang this Morning and, being in the area, she called out to Latimers, helped M to trim the tree and plant the raspberries (some of which were actuallygrapes) and had morning tea: she had come carrying doughnuts and a lamington - and (Yes!) there was some doughnut left for my afternoon tea when I arrived home. Yum!

It was a quiet night - which was good after last night's Trivia excitement. I finally managed to get around to a couple of things on my "to do" list but not nearly enough! Ah well, the weekend will be here soon enough!

It rained most of the day today - giving the plants around and about a much-needed soaking. Sooz's plants in her garden are coming along very nicely - and she's still collecting toilet and paper towel rolls for the next lot. She seems to be enjoying the green thumb thing - and Tinka certainly is because she's been seen using Sooz's garden as her own private litter tray!

Monday

Monday again. Where do the weekends go?

Winners are Grinners and while we weren't they we were pretty pleased to have broken our tie-break curse and have pulled off second. Once upon a time 75 (our equal best score) would have been enough to be Grinners but not tonight - we were tied for second before the tie-break: in which year was the first church opened in Australia? We said 1789 and Tidy's Crew said 1798 - and it was 1793 - making us second place by a year.

Of course, if we were Flam, we would have interrogated the results and said that if Sooz had been able to join us she would have known Chris Bowen and Tony Jones ... and there would have been our best score ever ... and the win. Ah well, we're not Fl so we're not even going to go there.

On the way home, I looked for the owl again on the way down the lane - but it must have been too late for it to be up.

On the way back though, I did pass a tourist bus on Gilston Road and I thought I knew where they'd been ... somewhere along Latimers looking at the stars.

I know I've said this before but we sometimes do forget to look up - at the stars, at the clouds, at the sunshine (but not straight into her).

M and Mi had dinner with Mouse tonight - and we were the beneficiaries as well ... Mouse and Mi sent home goodies. Yum ... and these will end up as lunch tomorrow or dinner tomorrow night. Thanks M's.

Sunday

Quality time with Maggie. I think she is missing M ... she came over for a hug/pat this morning - and then she went on to predict rain - only a little but we shall see by day's end if she is an accurate forecaster.

Except for Maggie and the other furries, the house was quiet this morning when I hauled myself from bed to feed and water those furries, and, of course, to let that Pearlie out (without letting those cats out before time). Then, it was time for the Tr call - an hour later for her this time round as Daylight Savings ended there today. Or an hour earlier. I'll never really know for sure.

The kids went back today - a little later than planned - they were still in bed when I left (late)for the Markets. Sooz had foregone the Markets to see the kids off although it could have been safer for her to have come with me. after they'd gone she made herself a cup of tea - and then slipped on some fluid on the floor. The good news is she didn't break anything except her favourite cup (that wasn't really good news) - the bad news is that she broke her favourite cup and sprained her ankle/foot, bruised the toes on the other foot ... and there, I realised as I wrote that, is the third call-out for the frozen peas. She is bruising but the Hirudoid should help with that.

The Markets were busy again - and I wasn't the last to arrive - that was Em, B and his three sisters. Fl and Mi's doctor friends were also there - otherwise it was the usual crowd including Nu and Va. There was no shortage of food or conversation and there was even an iPhone discussion for good measure.

Well, Maggie didn't do a bad job of forecasting - except the storm was way bigger than she had suggested.

Saturday

There are advantages to being the first up! And part of that is being able to be in control of the cats - and that they are not released before Tinka has had her shot and breakfast ... and that Pearl gets to go outside for her morning ablute (and then let back in) before lockdown ends. And you get to have your shower when you want it ... without having to wait for not one but two teenagers to do what they do in there ... and it certainly takes a while.

Lindsay

We were due in Broadbeach, at TBH, to have breakfast with M (who seems to be getting more unwell) at 9 and were. She was earlier than us though ... but we could have been earlier still had we insisted on getting to SupaNova as quickly as possible.

Ah ... SuperNova. What a truly amazing and incredible experience you are ... especially to we novices. It seems to be one of the few times in the year when people can dress up as their favourite character and go out in public ... and hold their heads up high.

Dalek Dress

It was one of the few times I have heard a grown woman saying to her son: "I want to get you with a girl." but she was, of course, referring to other Cosplay people ... in a complementary or compatible costume ... "in genre" you could say.

It was fantastic fun ... and there were certainly a couple of photo opportunities. Most people were more than happy to pose for a shot - some so much so that as soon as they saw the camera, they started heading in your direction.

Lo, Pa and I trouped back to TBH to meet the girls for dinner tired but happy. And I do believe there was talk of possibly going to the next SupaNova in Brisbane in September.

Closer to home, we didn't see the owl on our way home from Broadbeach this evening but we did hear a yell of horror from Pat, in the back seat, when he was hit with a stream of bat wee through the window. We felt sorry for him because it was fairly unlucky ... but at the same time, some people in the car found it very, very funny - or was that just Pat's reaction.

It was not the same reaction he had when he said he wanted to get his photograph taken with the Las Vegas Showgirls who were wandering round TBH foyer advertising their latest show.

Storm Troopers and others

Friday

Tremendouser - captioners at work again.

The kids arrived just after dark this evening. We were starting to get worried about them. They were late getting away from Kyogle - Sooz knew that - but they had “an adventure” on the way which seems to have had something to do with a long black wig (part of L's costume for SupaNova) and … well we never did find out the rest if it. I do know now though that Patrick knows that you can take back roads from Kyogle all the way to Southport - and when they arrived, Lo was sitting it the back seat. If my name was Alice, I know what I'd be saying (okay we all know she “cried” it but that just wouldn't have the same nuance)!*

And, of course, there's nothing like being on the wrong track … it seems Louise always sits in the back seat when they're driving. I'm not sure that it has to do with her tendency to motion sickness rather than that they were giving someone they didn't want us to know about a lift up to the Coast. Let's see if the person we think we're not supposed to turn up tomorrow at … SupaNova!!! I have decided to forgo the movie in Brisbane with Sooz, An and M to go to the fantasy and science fiction convention SupaNova at the Gold Coast Convention Centre … conveniently placed across the road from TBH.

We took the kids to Maccas for dinner this evening - Sooz had offered to cook Spaghetti Bolognese but since they were running late we decided it would be easier to outsource (and keep the economy ticking over).

M came home to say hi to the kids - and then took herself in to TBH - she is staying overnight - and giving her bed to Lo. She's great like that. (Thanks M!)

On the way up the lane, lighting the way with Lars' parking lights, and making sure everyone stayed as quiet as possible … we were rewarded with another owl sighting!

* Curiouser and Curiouser.

Thursday

M went out this evening to have dinner with the Family and M's sisters. She'd had a big day - getting the car to the mechanics where they were finally able to fix the air conditioning - and to the dentist. Poor her! Mouse had issues as well - she went to give M a lift from the mechanics and when she went out to the car, one of the tyres was flat. She called the RACQ and when they came it turned out to be more than the tyre - it was something to do with the wheel - and the car had to be towed! Not a good day for them at all.

On top of that M was not feeling well and at ... and she ended up coming home early and put herself straight to bed. Sooz and I were in charge of getting the furries in and settled - which we gladly did.

I was going to strike off on my own to The Big House this evening ... but by the time I finished at work it was already after 6 and I decided I had looked at way too many numbers already so at that point I decided just to go via the Q Centre and pick up dinner for Sooz and I. And believe it or not ... the owl was on the fence again as I drove down the lane. I am being more careful about it these days ... I now drive down the lane with my headlights off, very very slowly ... so as not to spook the owl. It's working so far.

Pearl on the mat

Tinka has taken "under the bed" to heart and sometimes if she can't be found anywhere else, if you stand in the bedroom and listen ... you can hear her buzzsaw snoring from under the bed. Hopefully she isn't planning to bring any of her new-found-friends with her ... she has been busy hunting and has carried home half a mouse (I think Sooz referred to them as "mouse trousers") and spent some time eating that - and not sharing it with Maggie.

Pearl is still on her antibiotics ... and while I know I sometimes say she has a mind of her own and thinks she is higher up the pecking order than me - she is staying with the rule about eating on the mat ... unfortunately, the big mat is no longer there but she does what she can.

 

Wednesday

There were no Winners are Grinners at Bingo today - and when Sooz and I went to the Tallai Golf Club tonight for dinner, we resisted the temptation (or was it urge - and what's the difference between the two?) to stay for Trivia. I am going to have to organise to play there again though and I'll start polling for interested parties and dates (and frequency - you know some of us like routines and to know what's happening).

B's tank

They choice of desserts this week was greatly reduced and the lemon meringue pie I was hanging out for wasn't on the menu. But we didn't go away empty-handed … they had an ice cream sundae with liqueur (Kahlua) poured over the top - so we got one to takeaway - that way it could be enjoyed after driving home!

I'm not sure what has happened to B's tank. This ws the tank that was originally stored rolled against the side of his house until that big storm some months ago flipped it on to its top - and ever since it has been tied securely to their electricity pole. As I was driving past today I noticed that it was still tied to the pole but it seems to be collapsing in on itself. I'm not sure if this is because tanks are designed to be filled with water and after a certain point they will implode (?) if they are not.

Sooz and I saw the owl on the fence across from L's (just past B's) on the way home again tonight. How lucky are we?

 

Tuesday

Day break

What a beautiful sunrise this morning. I stopped to take photographs during our walk up the lane and as I was commenting to Pearl that it was indeed a gorgeous sight, I suddenly realised she only sees in black and white so part of the magic would have been lost on her. But I did post a photo of it on FaceBook so I felt I had shaed the experience.

It was April Fool's Day today and as far as I know I wasn't caught out either at a personal or community level. Well, except for Disney's origami Olaf from "Frozen". I was suspicious when the instructions called for a whole lot of folds (which you kind of expect when Origami is involved) and even more so when they suggested that you skip to No. 11 if the instructions were proving too difficult (and they were!) ... I was just really glad I hadn't gone hunting for the baby carrot for his nose!

 

Monday

Winners and Grinners - especially when you're absolutely positive that you're not in the podium - and then you win! It was a close game though - three teams within one point of each other - us on 65, and two others on 64. They played off in the tiebreaker: when was the crayon invented? As usual we played along even though we weren't in it and I was the closest - I seemed to remember that crayons are a byproduct of petroleum products so it had to be early in the 1900s. The others had dates ranging back to the 1500's. There's always something to learn!

The baffler clues we had: I am an animal. I live to between 10 and 70 years old. Our answers for Rounds 1 and 2 were Horse and Elephant but not Crocodile (which I had said but not insisted on) which was the winning answer. Better luck next time!

It was a night of not listening to others at Trivia ... otherwise we would have had a couple of points extra. Repeat after me ... a Faun (like Pan) is half-man half-goat. Pearl Harbour was bombed in 1941. No ... no ... not repeat after me ... I think the problem is that we have to listen to the questions more carefully! And, of course, we were without St tonight, he was driving Ca and Me to the airport for their return to Melbourne.

It was another busy day at work. The new financial system had not yet been fully bedded down. I was of two minds today - whether to send screen shots from problem errors and areas - or let them let us know!

A rare treat ... we saw the owl on the way down the lane tonight on the way home! We reversed back to have a proper look - we were past it by the time we realized we had seen it - and after we had backed up, we saw that it had put itself on the fence a little bit further down the lane ... so we were able to see it from a "distance" ... as soon as we got near it - d'oh - it flew away. Magic though - and who knew they were so quiet!

Sunday

I was glad I'd done that work for work last night because it meant I could have the day at leisure without feeling the slightest pang of guilty! Of course there was plenty I could have been doing but that's what electronic to-do lists are for - very easily moving something from today's list to tomorrow! That's what managing tasks is all about.

At the Markets

It was a good call with Tr this morning. She's put me on to a couple of series that she's started watching and I'm looking forward to downloading them and having a look.

Sooz had a bye from the Markets today but that was okay because she had given M the shopping list. And it was a busy markets today. Three of Ma's sisters were there - he is one of ten! Ca and Me were also there - they were up to celebrate Ca's (St's mother's birthday yesterday). And, of course, there were all the usual suspects! Talk at the table at one point turned to gambling and then addiction generally. You never know what's going to come up.

Kudos of the day belongs to Flam - who correctly identified the power point driving the recently-installed bird deterrent alarms - and turned it off. Bliss! And, yes, we did remember to turn it on again on the way out!

Syl left the Markets early to go out to Latimers. She had been planning to give the whipper snipper a workout but that was shelves as the rain started very soon after she arrived.

Kathmandu is having it's Easter Sale - up to 60% off some items. It was fitting that I saw Ca and Me there because they were the ones who told me about it. I was remarkably restrained!

This afternoon I had the "day off" just catching up with some reading and series. I am now one episode away from the season finale of one of my favourite shows ... so it's just as well that Tr has suggested some others.