March 2017

Well we are now committed! Just booked the ferry from Port Melbourne to Devonport and back again - leaving 8 January 2018 and returning 24 January 2018. Either side of that, we have booked our accommodation in Joondalup, just north of Perth and Karijini Eco Retreat, given (flexible) dates to Barry Appleton and Tilly and made some bookings in Tassie since it will then be school holidays - oh joy!.

I have put myself on the waiting list for tickets to the Ashes Test in Sydney so we are aiming at being in or close to Sydney for New Year and the Test Match.

"

Jet Set" travelled with Judith's late mother, Dorothy, when she visited us in Australia. He arrived without a hat on his first visit and Dorothy made sure that for his next trip he was properly prepared! Judith has had to make some running repairs as his hat had more than a one leery bash in it!

The Grey Nomads

Only 119 days until we leave! The itinerary is pretty well in hand, all being well, but the burning question is whether or not, once in Perth, we have enough time to sort out vehicle and camper trailer with relevant insurance and rego etc., not to mention Medicare and other sundry issues (and a few meals with old friends) before we set off. It's quite difficult to get concrete answers to the vehicle and camper question so I have messaged Australian 4WD Camping magazine to see if they can offer some advice. Other than that, it is just a matter of enjoying the spring sunshine, even some warmth today, and the flowers blooming all over the shop - and the weeds!

Somewhere along the way we have to find time to get the garden ready for Stan to look after it for us, to get our vehicles all ready for Martin and Brand's to look after while we are away and to leave the house as empty and tidy as we can in the event that Simon, Carrie and their kids decide they would like some days near the sea - and to try to make sure we don't impose too greatly on Diana, our lovely long-suffering neighbour