Hope this finds you well and gearing up for the fun, laughter, and joyous company of good friends. We've had a mixed up year this year and can't wait for the new one to herald good tidings.
Henry began Kindergarten this year, or as he always corrects me, "Nursery School, Nanna". Barbie had to go too of course. He took to the place with enthusiasm absorbing information like a sponge. He floored us the other day while we were playing Old Maid. When asked how many cards he needed to deal, he picked up the box and read out the instructions! I don't think he'll have any troubles at school next year. Claire and Mick continue to work on their lovely place in Frankston. It's amazing to see how much their garden has grown in two years. They are currently enjoying their bathroom renovation that brings the toilet from the far end of the house to the bathroom opposite their bedroom. Mick has enjoyed his year at Pembank school teaching year 6. Claire will return to work at her Osteopathic Clinic in Ringwood next year.
The arrival of Finn Francis Bourke on 17th April, a very welcome addition to the family. Henry is quite besotted, as are all of us.
In July Emma & Karri travelled overseas for the wedding of two special couples in their lives. One of these wedding was in Wales, the other in France. Their cute dog Marvin stayed with us while they were away. He waited patiently for their return.
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| Sadly we lost my dear mother in April. Although she is no longer with us, her songs and laughter remain with us every day. |
Henry began Kindergarten this year, or as he always corrects me, "Nursery School, Nanna". Barbie had to go too of course. He took to the place with enthusiasm absorbing information like a sponge. He floored us the other day while we were playing Old Maid. When asked how many cards he needed to deal, he picked up the box and read out the instructions! I don't think he'll have any troubles at school next year. Claire and Mick continue to work on their lovely place in Frankston. It's amazing to see how much their garden has grown in two years. They are currently enjoying their bathroom renovation that brings the toilet from the far end of the house to the bathroom opposite their bedroom. Mick has enjoyed his year at Pembank school teaching year 6. Claire will return to work at her Osteopathic Clinic in Ringwood next year.
The arrival of Finn Francis Bourke on 17th April, a very welcome addition to the family. Henry is quite besotted, as are all of us.
The boys enjoying a cappuccino. Something that happens regularly Henry loves the accompanying edible delight best.
A trip north to Port Macquarie for some R&R. Not too bad really. We also played some golf.
Golf is a large feature in our lives due to the lovely friends we've made. Regular trips to Corowa, on the Murray, with Sue & Paul Arnts, John & Rita Handley and Warren Low, involved drinking, playing Dolly and of course golf. The kookaburras were an added delight in these adventures.
Being competitive guys, a Corowa cup was introduced into these holidays. Warren won the inaugural one and Paul & John shared it the last time we travelled North. I'm sure there will be many more chances to win this coveted trophy.
In July Emma & Karri travelled overseas for the wedding of two special couples in their lives. One of these wedding was in Wales, the other in France. Their cute dog Marvin stayed with us while they were away. He waited patiently for their return.
They had a lovely time except Karri broke his ankle and it is still causing him grief as it didn't knit properly when first set. Emma continues to achieve accolades and success in her work at Royal Talbot, and is doing a lot of beautiful art work for people. They are beginning the search for their own home.
James and Lauren are living in Brunswick and beginning their search for a home too. They are still avid Carlton fans and luckily went to the only game Carlton won this year! All three were very pleased that day. James works for Tricycle design company in North Melbourne and rides to work each day. Lauren's work, Bates Smart, is in the city.
Robert continues to work avidly on his lovely garden and Spring is always such a delight when it all comes into bloom.
Our first daffodil was a lovely harbinger of the warmth of summer.
A trip north to catch up with siblings and old friends in July. A lovely time was had with his sister Margaret, brother Andrew and families.
We moved up to Marcoola to stay with Tony & Pam Mason. Our time was extended by a week as Robert suffered a stress heart attack climbing Mt Coolum! Nambour hospital became home for a few days. Recuperation in Hervey Bay was our next stop. Staying
with Greg and Susan Chislett. Robert's Uni mate and groomsman. You can see how the rehabilitation went whilst there.
Upon returning home, Robert partook of a fabulous Cardiac Rehabilitation course and received a graduation certificate. He now has to focus on maintaining his exercise and diet program. So far all progresses well.
A trip to even further north in September for Tess Handley's wedding was a highlight of the year. The ceremony was a lovely relaxed affair on the beautiful banks of the Mary River. After which we continued south to Batchelor to catch up with my brother, Russell and wife, Linda. A wonderful bonus to that trip.
Another sad time in our year was the passing of our lovely nephew, Mark Hamblin. While it was wonderful to catch up with all the relatives up north the reason for our visit was extremely sad. He will be loved and missed every day.
Another golf trip in November, while the Americans were wrestling with electing Hilary or Donald, was definitely a highlight. Robert, John & Warren somehow managed to play golf in Thailand's 32 degree heat with 95 percent humidity. Rita & I relaxed
for two weeks. As you can see the golf was pretty exciting despite the heat. A trip to Kanchanaburi took us to the Bridge over the River Kwai and Hellfire pass. This couple of days sobered us up somewhat.
Upon our return we travelled to Ballarat to view the Archibald. As you can see it was pretty cold, especially after Thailand.
Jenny & David Molan, Fiona & Bill Morris were with on that escapade.
And now it's Santa season. Robert had to be Santa for the local Kindergarten and then the street party. He was a big success.
So that about winds up our year folks. Be well, safe and happy.
Ho Ho Ho and all that. Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year.
