Well, it's about time we slowed down the fun a bit, and write what's we've done & where's we been !
The long story.....( starting below with more blogs to come...)
The short story is.......we've crossed 5 borders, seen some great places & now currently in Kununurra W.A... And so looking forward to 'cruisin' around the Kimberley's over the next few months....Yay.
So what would you like to know about our trip?
*Fuel cost ? (really who cares - fill it up and enjoy the ride). But if you must know, the most expense diesel we've seen to date is $2.27..and if you don't want to pay that...well,it's a long walk! Feel better about what your paying now?
*How many kilometres we've covered ? (heaps with lots more to go) Approx 18,000klms and both vehicles going strong! Of course they're Toyota's.
*Where's the best place in Aussie so far? ( gosh, many favorite towns, anywhere there's a flowing creek & we can have our campfire I guess. But I do recall the historic town of Burra and it's old copper mine,left an impression).
*How are the kids coping? (Fine, told to sit down & shut up,haha,seriously they're still lovin it ! Enjoying their 'bunk beds' with the occasional sleep- out in the tent or swag...what more would a boy want! Great little bush walkers they are now too, the longest to date has been 8.6 klms. We've stopped Distance Ed,...yep,stuck it out for 9 months, but I'm no wonder woman.It was becoming quite hard to juggle.Boys now go from school to school, making new friends,and learning the 'different ways of learning' via Australian schools.....and I, enjoy no more headaches)
*Is there plenty of work out here? U betcha.Both John and I have succumbed to that 4 letter word on this trip.So if your willing to give anything a go...get packing,there's plenty of work out here.
*What's been the biggest drama? (Um...maybe losing the bike rack OFF the back of the van,yep, cruisin the highway at 90 clicks dragging my ass,um, bikes actually.Oh dear.Jack's bike suffered the most damage, with a grazed peddle, handle, seat, and snapped BRAKE cable to!!.Lucky he can still ride it ,just uses his 'shoes' to stop now, not his hands!!!....2nd drama was rushing BJ ,our youngest, to Timber Creek N.T Medical Centre.Yep, thanks to a 'gash to the head'.Our 3 little darlings have given up on the 'thong' throwing, ROCKS into water is now the go.....Just remember to aim straight, better still, DONT DO IT boys! Yes,there was lots of blood, tears and a lesson learnt.We hope? The doc did a glue job,stitches would've been to horrifying for mum, let alone BJ!
*Is it fun dragging a big dog around Australia? Well... it was great for a while... But it's a bit cruel having to keep her on the lease everywhere and if you enjoy dry wrenching while picking up huge dog poo's ,...than go for it...I am over it.... Although we love our pet so much.....man's best mate is maybe best left at home....
Gosh there's so many questions to answer about travelling.I could go one forever....
I know nearly everyone we meet who are working their butts off, just wish they were us...make it happen people.You have one life to live and if doing something like this has always got you excited...then get packing.There'll be no regrets.
Well,the last blog was more like a 'novel' so I'll try make this one a little shorter......Hmm,Yeah right!
Outback NSW is an interesting place,seems to have emu's galore, even walking the streets... Plenty of 'no fear' aborigine boys too....climbing 20ft high up trees and jumping into the river below,crazy.There's lots of famous people's final resting places too , Fred Hollows, Bushranger's Ben Hall, Captain Starlight,& Midnight's,we were luck to see most of them.There's the best zoo in Australia at Dubbo,the old gaol where our Jack took part in a theatrical performance, and there's even gold to be found if you have patience!
Many free camps around the state with quirky things that come with them, like the Swap or Donate camp kitchen at Whyandra, or the free mineral pool at Barmedmen..(where's that?- get your maps out) .Such great places everywhere,they stay in your mind ....especially the unique ones, or the camps where the boys get hurt,.... Or where we leave something behind....yeah, that's always memorable.
Spent a fun time boating,skiing & tubing on Burrendong Dam with old friends,caving at Wellington, seen the house made of bottles, enjoyed the Elvis Muesum & festival, along with a visit to the 64metre high ' Dish' Radio Telescope at Parkes. Near Condoblin, we visited
"Utes in the paddock"...which is a line of old Holdens that have died, then resurrected by great artists, and some viagra!... Interesting. See photo's..
It was around this time we'd decided to place the kids in school, choosing Alice Springs as the destination to settle for term 1 and 2.Knowing we were going to miss the start of term 1, we continued our journey cramming in as much as possible before making the cruise up the centre of Australia.
The mid western highway towards Hay is a good run, just make sure you obey signs about fruit fly control & eat up all that fruit...or bin it,which we all know is too expensive these days.Hay has a great showground camp site,the boys reckon the best skate park so far & the Murrumbidigee River was very brown & muddy when we drove over it.From here the big semi's & roadtrains, which I love the sight of, were in abundance as they do their weekly runs across the country from Perth to Sydney & Melbourne and back again.
The weather at Hay was becoming very 'cyclonic' as high humidity & very low circular clouds from ex -cyclone Anthony chased us out & further west.Joining the trucks along the Sturt Hwy we crossed the "Hay Plains" & wondered what the truckies do, to pass this boring area of Oz.The land is a 'taste ' of what the Nullabour is to many travellers........flat & bare.
We made it to Buronga & crossed the NSW/VIC border over the almighty Murray River into Mildura only to swing the convoy back around & camp in "NSW" at the Buronga Van Park.Such a lovely place we couldn't go past it.
Aussie's who live along this Murray River would have to be in one of the best places in this country.... I love it.All the small towns spread along the banks are just gorgeous and witnessing it in full flood was a sight to see.We took a ride on the Paddlesteamer "Melbourne" admiring the peace, quiet, and enjoyed pure relaxation.Almost had to boot us off....I'm definitely going back there one day.
It was here we got right amongst Mildura's flash flooding, very lucky we had the van hooked up at the time, when ridiculous amounts of rain fell on the town. We searched for higher ground,as the highway was flooding & to dangerous to drive.We eventually found a place & stayed on the side of the road near Wentworth for 3 days.Wentworth is a great little town,very historic, fantastic sandhills to run a mok on & it's the junction where the two biggest rivers in Oz meet.The Darling River, which is brown & the Murray River which was flowing fast & blue! Fantastic to see the colour of the water.
Quote for the day:
I used to say, good things come to those who wait...but come to think of it....the things that come to those who wait, are what's left behind by those who got there first!
Another family members lesson learnt:
Just after our 2nd son accidently placed mossie spray on his 'cuts and abrasions' he quickly asked .."Oh Mum, should I spray this on here ???"
Within seconds he got his answer..... burning skin...."ARGHHHHH" . But lotsa laughter coming from his brothers....
Something else to wonder:
Just what would you do, if you saw a endangered animal eating an endangered plant ??
Photo's do take a bit of time to place on here,there's SO many to choose from..... but I'll do my best to catch up...enjoy, keep dreaming,
Till next time,
CruisinDownUnder...
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Our journey from Winton to the QLD/NSW border.
Surprise, after many months of NO updates....we're still out there, just very slack at this blogging business !#!?
Those following us ,probably thought it's all been too hard living in 'a box'... And we've packed it in..um, a few family members nearly sent packin'... but no, this journey is far from over!
Travelling is SO addictive.Visiting new places and meeting 'locals' from the towns, some fascinating, some educational, and some.....just glad you've got that 'home on wheels' to move away from! Ha,they probably think the same of us.."thank christ the Mazlin circus has gone"
Absolutely LOVE this country,having done 'the lap' before,yet still discovering new & interesting places.Never ever, will you see ALL of Australia.If your currently planning a trip , I bet, as soon as you come back you'll be planning the next one...there's so much to discover, SO GET OUT HERE.
Well, time on the road has flown and during the past months we've dodged rising rivers, hail storms ( moved van undercover) and been at the wrong place/ wrong, time to be caught in flash flooding.Thankfully, we've remained safe, not always dry, but as you all know, the beginning of this year, Australia, has copped a lot of rain!
Thoughts go out to those effected by flood waters, cyclones or earthquakes and we really hope, all your insurance companies have made your life & recovery, that little bit easier.
Following on from our last blog,
We farewelled Winton, knowing up ahead, most outback rivers were on flood alert and you guessed it, we needed to cross EVERY one.Our original plans to fly over Lake Eyre from Birdsville, was looking (like the weather)-very dismal.Decided to spend 3 days in Longreach and see what happens.The Boeing 747 at the Qantas Museum was a 'huge cubby house' for the boys,they got into every bit of it.The cockpit with it's controls was great, they even found the black box, which is actually....ORANGE. Hmm,what?.The Stockman's Hall of Fame makes you proud to be an Aussie, seeing the routes of our early explorers,the hard live's of our Stockman, along with famous Aussie's achievements, just makes you appreciate this beaut country we're so lucky to live in.The Cattlemen's Bar & Grill Restaurant (near Hall of Fame).. We can highly recommend, great meal, atmosphere,and worth a stop to check out the patio and fan!
Well, it rained & rained.......all roads to Birdsville, were, yep u guessed it CLOSED.Bugger.
Driving IN torrential rain,we left Longreach, getting down to 40klms p/hr at times, because of water on the road.. A dangerous section of highway in the wet.We were told ,Illfracombe 27klms east, has a great little cafe.Well as the driving conditions 'were' crap, and our 'were' belly's hungry, we stopped, and were so glad we did.Yum food.Nearby, the Wellshot Hotel was the place to walk off our " breakkie feast" , it's also an interesting pub. NRL Cowboy's player, Matty Scott comes from here and there's a display inside, of a lad whose done the town proud. 'Money' and battered cowboy hats, hang from the ceiling, even 'one of' Lee Kernigan's hangs behind the bar. If your ever passing by ,pull in, grab a dollar note & learn how they stick the money to the ceiling, interesting, and a good party trick for mates back home.....Oh,for the tight people out there, you don't get your money back either!
Venturing 80klms to Barcaldine, we tracked down an elderly man we'd met last year in Bowen. Jolting his memory, he finally "remembered us", and was so happy for us to camp next to him in the van park.Gee thanks Eric?!#! We spent a couple of interesting days in 'Barky'.Not everyday does a Train Conductor invite you onboard the 'Spirit of the Outback' for smoko.Great stuff.So there we were, enjoying free drinks in the dinette carriage, chatting to passengers and staff!.Apparently the steep climb ahead was dangerous in the rain.Gee, seems road or rail in QLD is impassable during the wet ...anyone got a plane?
We found the very 'dead- Tree of Knowledge', can't miss it really, and inside the Australian Heritage Centre, we sat on the 'Seat of knowledge',which was not far from the 'Young Un- Tree of knowledge" (the dead one's offspring).... Yes, we left Barcaldine feeling very 'knowledgeable......
Santa found us & delivered his goodies at Blackall, within 5 secs the van looked like a 'paper warehouse' gone wrong!! A fun day though ,boys played with their gifts and we all filled our tummy's with ham,seafood & chocolates.( felt the effects for days after). It sure was a challenge to do "Santa" in a caravan,as the boys are older and 'curious'.....I lost count of the heart attacks suffered each time they ventured close to my stash holes! Phew!
We liked Blackall, a small town with lots of history.Enjoyed the old Woolscour ,which is the last remaining steam operated wool washing plant in Aussie.Last operated in 1978 & was here that Jacky Howe sheared a record, 321 sheep in 7 hrs 40 mins..WOW, only by blade clippers mind you!He also set a record with machines shearers, doing 237 sheep in 8 hrs..gosh, a sore back and hands for sure! We located his grave, donated some clippers, (ha ha), then enjoyed a refreshing dip at the Artesian SPA.Around the corner was the "Original" Black Stump.Exactly how many Black Stumps in Australia are there?? We've seen 3 'signed posted' so far on our travels.
We watched the Barcoo River rise, fall & rise again...man, we'll be stuck here if we don't make a run for it. So we pulled out & headed south....just as another storm was bearing down.
My head was glued to the laptop, studying the web sites of BOM & RACQ 'road conditions'.Many roads were closed any many of the towns we hoped to visit were now isolated. A decision was made to get out of QLD.Windorah,Birdsville, Quilpie and catching up with a friend at Roma will have to wait another day.
A quick picnic and play at the small town of Tambo, we then zoomed into Augathella to locate the famous Kenniff Tree (bushranger brothers) and other interests.We didn't stop for long.... it POURED,BUCKED DOWN,whatever you want to call it....the heavens opened up & we got DRENSHED.After a change of clothes, we drove on, in & out of the downpour towards Charleville, where, our trusty BOM site said there will be SUNSHINE.....get real, don't believe it.
Well, Charleville did have sun for us, however we didn't get that 'gut' feeling to stay.The boys enjoyed a quick whiz at the skatepark, which was full of rubbish more than kids..then it was on the highway again, south to free camp...somewhere.
Around 6ish I was feeling quite tired,as today had been long, especially driving in downpour conditions with potholes to miss.... takes some concentrating.About 100ks south of Charleville we pulled into Wyandra and found a lovely free camp, not far from the banks of the Warrego River.Hallejua..Clear skys,fireplace,hot showers,with a very 'unique camp kitchen'.Travellers here can 'swap' or leave their unwanted items...a great idea as travellers do accumulate a lot of 'unused stuff' while on the road.
After watching the SUN rise,it inspired me to....do the washing,as damp clothes don't smell nice after a while. Morning exercise was a walk to see the fast flowing 'chocolate' Warrego River.... Returning to pack camp,clothes and hit the road... not before trying the local pub's pie.....chat,chat,chat, with the barman....2hours later,we got on the highway.! Atleast it had stopped raining.
Cunnamulla was our next 'drive through',seems a nice town,spent a couple of hours looking around,visited the local weir,where the Warrego River was gushing over & there was fish galore to catch.Not by us though.A family photo with the "Cunnamulla fella" and it was full steam ahead to the QLD/ N.S.W border.
The road leading to the state border was dangerous at the time,both shoulders under repair, star pickets placed on both edges of the bitumen, making it dangerously narrow, thankfully no truck came along for this stretch as it would've been very tight. Tested my heart & towing skills I can tell you!
Hooray....on the 27th Dec we finally left the WORST roads in Australia and our home state.
Hello NEW SOUTH WALES.......but your still wondering whereweare now??? Stay tuned.
Funny thing from our 5 year old boy:
Shouting... "I've got NUTS", while at the table,....'Don't be rude' I said..then realizing he was pointing to his peanut butter sandwich.! Oops.
What John has learnt:
If your talking & asking questions to someone for more than 5 minutes....and there's no reply....best to stop talking...
......Poor lady was deaf.
I've finally added more pics aswell.Click on our photo album.
Cheers,
CruisinDownUnder
Those following us ,probably thought it's all been too hard living in 'a box'... And we've packed it in..um, a few family members nearly sent packin'... but no, this journey is far from over!
Travelling is SO addictive.Visiting new places and meeting 'locals' from the towns, some fascinating, some educational, and some.....just glad you've got that 'home on wheels' to move away from! Ha,they probably think the same of us.."thank christ the Mazlin circus has gone"
Absolutely LOVE this country,having done 'the lap' before,yet still discovering new & interesting places.Never ever, will you see ALL of Australia.If your currently planning a trip , I bet, as soon as you come back you'll be planning the next one...there's so much to discover, SO GET OUT HERE.
Well, time on the road has flown and during the past months we've dodged rising rivers, hail storms ( moved van undercover) and been at the wrong place/ wrong, time to be caught in flash flooding.Thankfully, we've remained safe, not always dry, but as you all know, the beginning of this year, Australia, has copped a lot of rain!
Thoughts go out to those effected by flood waters, cyclones or earthquakes and we really hope, all your insurance companies have made your life & recovery, that little bit easier.
Following on from our last blog,
We farewelled Winton, knowing up ahead, most outback rivers were on flood alert and you guessed it, we needed to cross EVERY one.Our original plans to fly over Lake Eyre from Birdsville, was looking (like the weather)-very dismal.Decided to spend 3 days in Longreach and see what happens.The Boeing 747 at the Qantas Museum was a 'huge cubby house' for the boys,they got into every bit of it.The cockpit with it's controls was great, they even found the black box, which is actually....ORANGE. Hmm,what?.The Stockman's Hall of Fame makes you proud to be an Aussie, seeing the routes of our early explorers,the hard live's of our Stockman, along with famous Aussie's achievements, just makes you appreciate this beaut country we're so lucky to live in.The Cattlemen's Bar & Grill Restaurant (near Hall of Fame).. We can highly recommend, great meal, atmosphere,and worth a stop to check out the patio and fan!
Well, it rained & rained.......all roads to Birdsville, were, yep u guessed it CLOSED.Bugger.
Driving IN torrential rain,we left Longreach, getting down to 40klms p/hr at times, because of water on the road.. A dangerous section of highway in the wet.We were told ,Illfracombe 27klms east, has a great little cafe.Well as the driving conditions 'were' crap, and our 'were' belly's hungry, we stopped, and were so glad we did.Yum food.Nearby, the Wellshot Hotel was the place to walk off our " breakkie feast" , it's also an interesting pub. NRL Cowboy's player, Matty Scott comes from here and there's a display inside, of a lad whose done the town proud. 'Money' and battered cowboy hats, hang from the ceiling, even 'one of' Lee Kernigan's hangs behind the bar. If your ever passing by ,pull in, grab a dollar note & learn how they stick the money to the ceiling, interesting, and a good party trick for mates back home.....Oh,for the tight people out there, you don't get your money back either!
Venturing 80klms to Barcaldine, we tracked down an elderly man we'd met last year in Bowen. Jolting his memory, he finally "remembered us", and was so happy for us to camp next to him in the van park.Gee thanks Eric?!#! We spent a couple of interesting days in 'Barky'.Not everyday does a Train Conductor invite you onboard the 'Spirit of the Outback' for smoko.Great stuff.So there we were, enjoying free drinks in the dinette carriage, chatting to passengers and staff!.Apparently the steep climb ahead was dangerous in the rain.Gee, seems road or rail in QLD is impassable during the wet ...anyone got a plane?
We found the very 'dead- Tree of Knowledge', can't miss it really, and inside the Australian Heritage Centre, we sat on the 'Seat of knowledge',which was not far from the 'Young Un- Tree of knowledge" (the dead one's offspring).... Yes, we left Barcaldine feeling very 'knowledgeable......
Santa found us & delivered his goodies at Blackall, within 5 secs the van looked like a 'paper warehouse' gone wrong!! A fun day though ,boys played with their gifts and we all filled our tummy's with ham,seafood & chocolates.( felt the effects for days after). It sure was a challenge to do "Santa" in a caravan,as the boys are older and 'curious'.....I lost count of the heart attacks suffered each time they ventured close to my stash holes! Phew!
We liked Blackall, a small town with lots of history.Enjoyed the old Woolscour ,which is the last remaining steam operated wool washing plant in Aussie.Last operated in 1978 & was here that Jacky Howe sheared a record, 321 sheep in 7 hrs 40 mins..WOW, only by blade clippers mind you!He also set a record with machines shearers, doing 237 sheep in 8 hrs..gosh, a sore back and hands for sure! We located his grave, donated some clippers, (ha ha), then enjoyed a refreshing dip at the Artesian SPA.Around the corner was the "Original" Black Stump.Exactly how many Black Stumps in Australia are there?? We've seen 3 'signed posted' so far on our travels.
We watched the Barcoo River rise, fall & rise again...man, we'll be stuck here if we don't make a run for it. So we pulled out & headed south....just as another storm was bearing down.
My head was glued to the laptop, studying the web sites of BOM & RACQ 'road conditions'.Many roads were closed any many of the towns we hoped to visit were now isolated. A decision was made to get out of QLD.Windorah,Birdsville, Quilpie and catching up with a friend at Roma will have to wait another day.
A quick picnic and play at the small town of Tambo, we then zoomed into Augathella to locate the famous Kenniff Tree (bushranger brothers) and other interests.We didn't stop for long.... it POURED,BUCKED DOWN,whatever you want to call it....the heavens opened up & we got DRENSHED.After a change of clothes, we drove on, in & out of the downpour towards Charleville, where, our trusty BOM site said there will be SUNSHINE.....get real, don't believe it.
Well, Charleville did have sun for us, however we didn't get that 'gut' feeling to stay.The boys enjoyed a quick whiz at the skatepark, which was full of rubbish more than kids..then it was on the highway again, south to free camp...somewhere.
Around 6ish I was feeling quite tired,as today had been long, especially driving in downpour conditions with potholes to miss.... takes some concentrating.About 100ks south of Charleville we pulled into Wyandra and found a lovely free camp, not far from the banks of the Warrego River.Hallejua..Clear skys,fireplace,hot showers,with a very 'unique camp kitchen'.Travellers here can 'swap' or leave their unwanted items...a great idea as travellers do accumulate a lot of 'unused stuff' while on the road.
After watching the SUN rise,it inspired me to....do the washing,as damp clothes don't smell nice after a while. Morning exercise was a walk to see the fast flowing 'chocolate' Warrego River.... Returning to pack camp,clothes and hit the road... not before trying the local pub's pie.....chat,chat,chat, with the barman....2hours later,we got on the highway.! Atleast it had stopped raining.
Cunnamulla was our next 'drive through',seems a nice town,spent a couple of hours looking around,visited the local weir,where the Warrego River was gushing over & there was fish galore to catch.Not by us though.A family photo with the "Cunnamulla fella" and it was full steam ahead to the QLD/ N.S.W border.
The road leading to the state border was dangerous at the time,both shoulders under repair, star pickets placed on both edges of the bitumen, making it dangerously narrow, thankfully no truck came along for this stretch as it would've been very tight. Tested my heart & towing skills I can tell you!
Hooray....on the 27th Dec we finally left the WORST roads in Australia and our home state.
Hello NEW SOUTH WALES.......but your still wondering whereweare now??? Stay tuned.
Funny thing from our 5 year old boy:
Shouting... "I've got NUTS", while at the table,....'Don't be rude' I said..then realizing he was pointing to his peanut butter sandwich.! Oops.
What John has learnt:
If your talking & asking questions to someone for more than 5 minutes....and there's no reply....best to stop talking...
......Poor lady was deaf.
I've finally added more pics aswell.Click on our photo album.
Cheers,
CruisinDownUnder
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Just a quickie for now.
Crikey....you can tell I don't live with the 'laptop' glued to my lap!!
Just so much to do & in our busy 'caravan' world........
You know, this great country is so much better to explore, than any computer screen or TV show...Dare I say it....just ask Oprah?.
So sorry, once again, you have to deal with my delayed updates & finding out 'wherethehellrwe'.
This is just a 'quickie', for those following our journey....way back in OCT,we had a 5 day getaway in our SWAG,(which I'll fill u in with details/pics later) up to Karumba, Normanton, Burketown, Lawn Hill, Mt Isa, then down to McKinlay, Kynunu & took the MUDDY road back to Richmond.A 2,200klms adventure in John's truck, dog included What fun!!
Ah, Richmond....become a 2nd home,but started to feel like 'HOTEL CALIFORNIA' (we'd never leave).....anyway,finally got out of there, 16th Nov & headed south.
Have been in Winton for 3 weeks now, (great place, great butcher, baker, plenty of 4wdriving, camping & some 'real' Aussie characters in this outback town) ....only planned to stop for 2 days..Oops ya get that!)
Both John & I accepted work that was offered, and also took the chance to get Distance Ed, our Xmas gifts and mail sorted while we're here.All done now so...
Tomorrow it's off to Longreach , meet the locals, see the sights and get Oaky's,( our dog), yearly vaccinations done.(lucky her)
Our boys are enjoying it immensely.....meeting other kids and making friendships along the way.They do miss only 1 toy left at home....a large 4x4 truck, they 'modified' to play 4wdrive's n camping around our 5 acres.....it's a sore talking point as there's been many of times they wished Dad had 'squeezed' it in the trailer...They are hoping SANTA brings them another one..I don't-think-so.
What I've learnt:
There are so many books/DVD's & TV shows about Australia,What to see , where to go, how to do it..etc.
But the best way is to experience it. Follow your nose & have no plans.. take the roads to the smaller towns & if you get lost,well that's just another adventure.Don't stick to the major highways....be different.
Take the plunge, buy that tent,camper, motorhome or van & just do it..... For yourself.
Funny quote:
Jack (our eldest) was bare foot & getting his cut hair, by 'mwah' ... As the long locks of curls fell he said :
" Gee Mum, it feels like carpet under my feet!". .....I reckon it was another way of him saying, he hasn't 'felt' carpet for a while!
Ok.If your travelling,be safe on the roads, watch out for Santa's sleigh, it maybe landing but skiddin' out of control?!#!
....Our boys are still believers, which make the season oh, so much more fun!...
We'd like to wish you all a 'Jolly festive season' and a very happy start to the New Year!
Ho Ho Ho It's...
CruisinDownUnder... We go !
Just so much to do & in our busy 'caravan' world........
You know, this great country is so much better to explore, than any computer screen or TV show...Dare I say it....just ask Oprah?.
So sorry, once again, you have to deal with my delayed updates & finding out 'wherethehellrwe'.
This is just a 'quickie', for those following our journey....way back in OCT,we had a 5 day getaway in our SWAG,(which I'll fill u in with details/pics later) up to Karumba, Normanton, Burketown, Lawn Hill, Mt Isa, then down to McKinlay, Kynunu & took the MUDDY road back to Richmond.A 2,200klms adventure in John's truck, dog included What fun!!
Ah, Richmond....become a 2nd home,but started to feel like 'HOTEL CALIFORNIA' (we'd never leave).....anyway,finally got out of there, 16th Nov & headed south.
Have been in Winton for 3 weeks now, (great place, great butcher, baker, plenty of 4wdriving, camping & some 'real' Aussie characters in this outback town) ....only planned to stop for 2 days..Oops ya get that!)
Both John & I accepted work that was offered, and also took the chance to get Distance Ed, our Xmas gifts and mail sorted while we're here.All done now so...
Tomorrow it's off to Longreach , meet the locals, see the sights and get Oaky's,( our dog), yearly vaccinations done.(lucky her)
Our boys are enjoying it immensely.....meeting other kids and making friendships along the way.They do miss only 1 toy left at home....a large 4x4 truck, they 'modified' to play 4wdrive's n camping around our 5 acres.....it's a sore talking point as there's been many of times they wished Dad had 'squeezed' it in the trailer...They are hoping SANTA brings them another one..I don't-think-so.
What I've learnt:
There are so many books/DVD's & TV shows about Australia,What to see , where to go, how to do it..etc.
But the best way is to experience it. Follow your nose & have no plans.. take the roads to the smaller towns & if you get lost,well that's just another adventure.Don't stick to the major highways....be different.
Take the plunge, buy that tent,camper, motorhome or van & just do it..... For yourself.
Funny quote:
Jack (our eldest) was bare foot & getting his cut hair, by 'mwah' ... As the long locks of curls fell he said :
" Gee Mum, it feels like carpet under my feet!". .....I reckon it was another way of him saying, he hasn't 'felt' carpet for a while!
Ok.If your travelling,be safe on the roads, watch out for Santa's sleigh, it maybe landing but skiddin' out of control?!#!
....Our boys are still believers, which make the season oh, so much more fun!...
We'd like to wish you all a 'Jolly festive season' and a very happy start to the New Year!
Ho Ho Ho It's...
CruisinDownUnder... We go !
Friday, October 15, 2010
Still Sittin' By The H'way, Smelling Diesel, Dust & Cattle Trucks....
Suprise! ...we're still here. WOW, been over a MONTH now since our last update.
Sorry if you've been checking in and finding no added info.... But ,we did say, we'd be out having fun!
Flipping the calendar back to July, we ventured 350klms return for a day visit to Porcupine Gorge. Amazing to see this huge canyon after so much grassy flat plains. We trekked down & up the gorge, stopping for a splash in the small amount of water that was there. BJ, our 5 yr old, did well traversing the steep tracks, only asking to be carried for a short while. (won't let that become a habit). Jack had an experience while there.....he's learnt 'never use chin to hold pocket knife while doing pee in pit toilet'.Why? Chin goes up,while you watch favorite pocket knife fall into poo.Yes, there was tears- but soon came laughter as we discussed the new journey of Jack's pocketknife.
Anyway ,the Gorge IS worth the visit, should you ever pass through Hughenden.Camping fees apply (Nat.Pk), be fully self sufficient, no fires allowed & it would be fantastic to see in the wet season if your game. ( probably close the roads anyway)
The work we thought would be ready in Richmond (Hospital units) ,had been delayed, however John kept busy doing small jobs. An emergency trip to Townsville occurred, as a piece of fencing wire struck him in the eye. Luckily, after having to stay there for 6 days, John was given the all clear, no operation required, thank god.The boys & I had returned to Richmond after the 1st night, leaving him in good hands of course.... paperwork to do, with a deadline to meet.(Bloody ATO, they can spoil a holiday, just ask Hoges.). So eventually,John caught the 'greyhound' back to 'camp Richmond'.....and with now excellent vision, vowed never to travel by bus again !
August came & went so fast, however waiting for the approval of this 'project' was slow & had us contemplating the road outta here, many times.
We'd experienced our coldest & hottest temps so far ( 3.7 Degs night, 37 Degs day). Blankets on, blankets off, strange winter.
The annexe can get quite hot, especially when trying to concentrate on school work, one day there it was pencils down & off to Kronosaurus Korner Museum for the air conditioning & a lesson on dinosaur fossils.
The boys have enjoyed a night at the local rodeo, watching cowboys/girls to their stuff, plus more fishing & catching red claw at a local waterhole....fresh fish on the 'Barbie', can't beat it!
John had another quick & busy visit back to Townsville, this time for 4 days, an eye check up, dentist & other health reasons.Taking his 4x4 this time, for the running around he had to do, also to return with building supplies & ....beer...(bit pricey here) . He'd raided our shed & returned with the 11ft punt...along with bits n pieces. What-Tha ? Are we ever to leave Richmond, as nice as it is.....we gotta get out of here,Dad's setting up house!?!
Did you know Australia has 192 different species of frogs......some can lay 7000 eggs at a time, while others only 20. ( no wonder they just keep coming back to the toilet)
What I've learnt:
When the boys.... 'SHOULD BE' listening....they're not,
When the boys.... 'SHOULD NOT BE' listening....they are !
CruisinDownUnder...
(Just stopped for a while)
Sorry if you've been checking in and finding no added info.... But ,we did say, we'd be out having fun!
Flipping the calendar back to July, we ventured 350klms return for a day visit to Porcupine Gorge. Amazing to see this huge canyon after so much grassy flat plains. We trekked down & up the gorge, stopping for a splash in the small amount of water that was there. BJ, our 5 yr old, did well traversing the steep tracks, only asking to be carried for a short while. (won't let that become a habit). Jack had an experience while there.....he's learnt 'never use chin to hold pocket knife while doing pee in pit toilet'.Why? Chin goes up,while you watch favorite pocket knife fall into poo.Yes, there was tears- but soon came laughter as we discussed the new journey of Jack's pocketknife.
Anyway ,the Gorge IS worth the visit, should you ever pass through Hughenden.Camping fees apply (Nat.Pk), be fully self sufficient, no fires allowed & it would be fantastic to see in the wet season if your game. ( probably close the roads anyway)
The work we thought would be ready in Richmond (Hospital units) ,had been delayed, however John kept busy doing small jobs. An emergency trip to Townsville occurred, as a piece of fencing wire struck him in the eye. Luckily, after having to stay there for 6 days, John was given the all clear, no operation required, thank god.The boys & I had returned to Richmond after the 1st night, leaving him in good hands of course.... paperwork to do, with a deadline to meet.(Bloody ATO, they can spoil a holiday, just ask Hoges.). So eventually,John caught the 'greyhound' back to 'camp Richmond'.....and with now excellent vision, vowed never to travel by bus again !
August came & went so fast, however waiting for the approval of this 'project' was slow & had us contemplating the road outta here, many times.
We'd experienced our coldest & hottest temps so far ( 3.7 Degs night, 37 Degs day). Blankets on, blankets off, strange winter.
The annexe can get quite hot, especially when trying to concentrate on school work, one day there it was pencils down & off to Kronosaurus Korner Museum for the air conditioning & a lesson on dinosaur fossils.
The boys have enjoyed a night at the local rodeo, watching cowboys/girls to their stuff, plus more fishing & catching red claw at a local waterhole....fresh fish on the 'Barbie', can't beat it!
John had another quick & busy visit back to Townsville, this time for 4 days, an eye check up, dentist & other health reasons.Taking his 4x4 this time, for the running around he had to do, also to return with building supplies & ....beer...(bit pricey here) . He'd raided our shed & returned with the 11ft punt...along with bits n pieces. What-Tha ? Are we ever to leave Richmond, as nice as it is.....we gotta get out of here,Dad's setting up house!?!
Did you know Australia has 192 different species of frogs......some can lay 7000 eggs at a time, while others only 20. ( no wonder they just keep coming back to the toilet)
What I've learnt:
When the boys.... 'SHOULD BE' listening....they're not,
When the boys.... 'SHOULD NOT BE' listening....they are !
CruisinDownUnder...
(Just stopped for a while)
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Sitting ducks.
You'll be pleased to know I've finally added more photos.
Been 8 weeks now and gosh its flown.If we keep spending this much time in towns, we'll never get all over Australia...
Our 1st week here we were invited to a BBQ, (must've looked lonely) but since then,we've been out n about with locals, enjoying the Richmond way of life.
Roo & pig shooting, has been an experience for John, coming home at 2am, bloodstains on his gum boots with story's to tell !
(photo coming later)
Jack (the eldest) got lucky, did a bit of mustering, while John worked at a cattle station.Jack returning with a shanghai, specially made for him....( Thank's Jack, MUM will find that handy!)
Mitchell's enjoyed boxing practice, also a footy training session with the local U'8's .Shame he missed the sign on's by 2 weeks, as he seems a natural on the field & REALLY wanted to join the team.Oh well, footy can wait......we are travelling remember.
Although we're missing the daily adventures of life on the highway, it's fine to be 'sitting ducks' in a small, but friendly town.Getting the opportunity to visit local camp spots, do some 4wdriving, fishing, plus the boys have front row seats of what's travelling, East to West & West to East, along this ever so busy highway.They've seen everything from wide & long loads, to huge travelling set-ups, Buses towing trailers, 5th Wheelers, smelly cattle road trains, more smelly cattle road trains.But the best so far, has been an old Holden Kingswood, towing an old silver Viscount caravan (remember them)....Yes, they were driving slow & I wondered if related to Mr Bullpit !
Each day I hear a " Mum, check this out!"..."Wow, look at that!" Today it was a convoy of Army trucks, with every Army vehicle they need for exercise, in tow.
Laughed when our 8 year old yells "Hey, is that legal?" referring to a small Ute with an extra tall parcel.Way, way too high for it...says Mr Policeman himself!
The gist of home schooling is getting easier, as the boys absorb their school work, and I'm not yelling- as much.
Learning lots of different things, penguins, processed products, making puppets,even acting out a play! (believe that or not) Amazing the craft stuff I jammed into this van!.Distance Education is very "Australia-na",so hopefully most of the subjects learnt,the boys can discover as we go round.Mitchell has learnt about the rare Dunnart, found only in the Julia Creek area.Jack's knows more about Penguins and is looking forward to watching them wobble on Phillip Island.Ben's learning how each family is different, along with numbers, letters, words & yes, it's all a juggle, but we're making it fun & getting there.Don't you worry,a wine or panadol is never far away!!
We've all adjusted to caravan living, putting things BACK WHERE THEY LIVE also negotiating the passing of each other, in the narrow hallway.When John rolls over the whole van shakes & when Mitch accidently hits the roof of the van (top bunk) at night, it sounds like a rock's hit the roof! Jesus! If any one sleep talks, we can listen to the conversation.Mitchell's the one who does this the most....Hmm he talks day & night that child! Showering with artesian water is different, the warmth & smell of it, also the beautiful colour the calcium leaves behind... Must see photo album.
Something learnt:
When a child wakes you up at 2am to tell you they feel sick......believe them.
.... If your wondering...yes I got the sick bag...just in time.
CruisinDownUnder...
Snail's pace.
Been 8 weeks now and gosh its flown.If we keep spending this much time in towns, we'll never get all over Australia...
Our 1st week here we were invited to a BBQ, (must've looked lonely) but since then,we've been out n about with locals, enjoying the Richmond way of life.
Roo & pig shooting, has been an experience for John, coming home at 2am, bloodstains on his gum boots with story's to tell !
(photo coming later)
Jack (the eldest) got lucky, did a bit of mustering, while John worked at a cattle station.Jack returning with a shanghai, specially made for him....( Thank's Jack, MUM will find that handy!)
Mitchell's enjoyed boxing practice, also a footy training session with the local U'8's .Shame he missed the sign on's by 2 weeks, as he seems a natural on the field & REALLY wanted to join the team.Oh well, footy can wait......we are travelling remember.
Although we're missing the daily adventures of life on the highway, it's fine to be 'sitting ducks' in a small, but friendly town.Getting the opportunity to visit local camp spots, do some 4wdriving, fishing, plus the boys have front row seats of what's travelling, East to West & West to East, along this ever so busy highway.They've seen everything from wide & long loads, to huge travelling set-ups, Buses towing trailers, 5th Wheelers, smelly cattle road trains, more smelly cattle road trains.But the best so far, has been an old Holden Kingswood, towing an old silver Viscount caravan (remember them)....Yes, they were driving slow & I wondered if related to Mr Bullpit !
Each day I hear a " Mum, check this out!"..."Wow, look at that!" Today it was a convoy of Army trucks, with every Army vehicle they need for exercise, in tow.
Laughed when our 8 year old yells "Hey, is that legal?" referring to a small Ute with an extra tall parcel.Way, way too high for it...says Mr Policeman himself!
The gist of home schooling is getting easier, as the boys absorb their school work, and I'm not yelling- as much.
Learning lots of different things, penguins, processed products, making puppets,even acting out a play! (believe that or not) Amazing the craft stuff I jammed into this van!.Distance Education is very "Australia-na",so hopefully most of the subjects learnt,the boys can discover as we go round.Mitchell has learnt about the rare Dunnart, found only in the Julia Creek area.Jack's knows more about Penguins and is looking forward to watching them wobble on Phillip Island.Ben's learning how each family is different, along with numbers, letters, words & yes, it's all a juggle, but we're making it fun & getting there.Don't you worry,a wine or panadol is never far away!!
We've all adjusted to caravan living, putting things BACK WHERE THEY LIVE also negotiating the passing of each other, in the narrow hallway.When John rolls over the whole van shakes & when Mitch accidently hits the roof of the van (top bunk) at night, it sounds like a rock's hit the roof! Jesus! If any one sleep talks, we can listen to the conversation.Mitchell's the one who does this the most....Hmm he talks day & night that child! Showering with artesian water is different, the warmth & smell of it, also the beautiful colour the calcium leaves behind... Must see photo album.
Something learnt:
When a child wakes you up at 2am to tell you they feel sick......believe them.
.... If your wondering...yes I got the sick bag...just in time.
CruisinDownUnder...
Snail's pace.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
We're almost 'locals' -Richmond.
Um.....Did we mention 'slowly' travelling Australia.
Wondering WHY we are still here??
Well,29th June, we departed the Van park & moved to a house block.
Located on the highway west & next to the railway line.(you can image the rest)
Yep,no gums trees or flowing creek here, just traffic & noise, and a cheap home base, till John's next project's gets the go ahead.
As Council delays hold it up & we're staying longer than anticipated, it's given us the chance to met locals & explore the area.
So while based here,we're lucky enough to have friendly neighbours, who help each other with meals, tasks and yell conversations across the street each day.....don't see that in the city's much.The little boy next door has gained 3 instant brothers,which I think, he loves.
Richmond's a friendly town of around 800 people,known for the Fossil Capital of Australia, and although you could drive from one end of town to the other, in 2 minutes....It's worth the stop for a day or two....or in our case 6 weeks!
Lesson's learnt:
Making a living is not the same as making a life.
Where ever u r
Who ever u r,
Safe travels.
CruisinDownUnder..
Wondering WHY we are still here??
Well,29th June, we departed the Van park & moved to a house block.
Located on the highway west & next to the railway line.(you can image the rest)
Yep,no gums trees or flowing creek here, just traffic & noise, and a cheap home base, till John's next project's gets the go ahead.
As Council delays hold it up & we're staying longer than anticipated, it's given us the chance to met locals & explore the area.
So while based here,we're lucky enough to have friendly neighbours, who help each other with meals, tasks and yell conversations across the street each day.....don't see that in the city's much.The little boy next door has gained 3 instant brothers,which I think, he loves.
Richmond's a friendly town of around 800 people,known for the Fossil Capital of Australia, and although you could drive from one end of town to the other, in 2 minutes....It's worth the stop for a day or two....or in our case 6 weeks!
Lesson's learnt:
Making a living is not the same as making a life.
Where ever u r
Who ever u r,
Safe travels.
CruisinDownUnder..
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Touchdown in Richmond.
After retrieving one of the boys thongs from on top of the van (don't ask) ,we pulled out at 8am for the big drive to Richmond.(all of 250kms)
Passing through the White Mountains National Park, I said to Mitch & Ben,"Hey, there's a lookout up here"...wrong thing to say.. 'Can we stop, can we stop, Mum?"...."Nah boys, signs are there to make you LOOK OUT THE WINDOW".....
Phew, got outta that one!
Not far down the road were remnants of a caravan which had flipped yesterday.A warning of the dangers while towing, holiday ruined,but that can be re-done,however a life can not.We hoped the owners got out unscathed.
The drive along this Flinders Highway can be 'ho hum'... plenty of waves from passing caravanners, with the occasional passenger going ballistic... (Must be bored).Passing the small towns of Torrens Creek & Prairie we set our sights on Hughenden .Smoko on the river at the western side of town,was a good place for the boys & dog to run-amok along the sand.After much laughter,chasing & games it was time to pile in,but hang on there's tears.. Someone has lost a thong! OMG...
Given 5 mins to find the 'flying lost thong' ...Jack raced to & from (frightened to be left behind)..delivering..you guessed it, the rubber.We really should by them a Frisbee!
Having to pass on viewing Porcupine Gorge, we continued to Richmond,as John was to met a fellow regarding work.
Lots of whoop-dee-doo's from Hughy to Richy, as Queensland roads UP NORTH,need serious attention.Each time I flew over one of these humps I kept thinking....did Mitch tidied his top bookcase?
Speaking of the little devil,he was asked to write Math's tables before we got to Richmond.He protested,tried,then blamed the lack of concentration on my 'driving'! Yep,that excuse will be used more than once!
Pulling into the van park & given a beaut spot.John was able to park his rig at no extra charge- a bonus considering it was school holidays & busy.After meeting our 'neighbours' we scoffed lunch,then heard a 'hello'.Some Townsvillian's had recognized us.Honestly,how can you miss us?After a quick chat we took off to meet Trevor who has work lined up.We met at his block,& the offer to use it for accommodation was put forward.As the job was not an immediate start, we decided re-locate to his block 2 days later.
Lessons learnt:
While at the ablution block John learnt,when your really busting & the mind's all cloudy,it's best you read 'what door' your trying to 'punch in the code' for.He found himself in the laundry! (and he'll kill me for writing this.)
Nice knowing ya,
CruisinDownUnder
Passing through the White Mountains National Park, I said to Mitch & Ben,"Hey, there's a lookout up here"...wrong thing to say.. 'Can we stop, can we stop, Mum?"...."Nah boys, signs are there to make you LOOK OUT THE WINDOW".....
Phew, got outta that one!
Not far down the road were remnants of a caravan which had flipped yesterday.A warning of the dangers while towing, holiday ruined,but that can be re-done,however a life can not.We hoped the owners got out unscathed.
The drive along this Flinders Highway can be 'ho hum'... plenty of waves from passing caravanners, with the occasional passenger going ballistic... (Must be bored).Passing the small towns of Torrens Creek & Prairie we set our sights on Hughenden .Smoko on the river at the western side of town,was a good place for the boys & dog to run-amok along the sand.After much laughter,chasing & games it was time to pile in,but hang on there's tears.. Someone has lost a thong! OMG...
Given 5 mins to find the 'flying lost thong' ...Jack raced to & from (frightened to be left behind)..delivering..you guessed it, the rubber.We really should by them a Frisbee!
Having to pass on viewing Porcupine Gorge, we continued to Richmond,as John was to met a fellow regarding work.
Lots of whoop-dee-doo's from Hughy to Richy, as Queensland roads UP NORTH,need serious attention.Each time I flew over one of these humps I kept thinking....did Mitch tidied his top bookcase?
Speaking of the little devil,he was asked to write Math's tables before we got to Richmond.He protested,tried,then blamed the lack of concentration on my 'driving'! Yep,that excuse will be used more than once!
Pulling into the van park & given a beaut spot.John was able to park his rig at no extra charge- a bonus considering it was school holidays & busy.After meeting our 'neighbours' we scoffed lunch,then heard a 'hello'.Some Townsvillian's had recognized us.Honestly,how can you miss us?After a quick chat we took off to meet Trevor who has work lined up.We met at his block,& the offer to use it for accommodation was put forward.As the job was not an immediate start, we decided re-locate to his block 2 days later.
Lessons learnt:
While at the ablution block John learnt,when your really busting & the mind's all cloudy,it's best you read 'what door' your trying to 'punch in the code' for.He found himself in the laundry! (and he'll kill me for writing this.)
Nice knowing ya,
CruisinDownUnder
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Westward bound for Richmond.
Hey folks.
Well, the 'cruisin mood' has really set in.......hence the lack of updates.... Sorry 'bout that!
After our 4 relaxing nights in Ravenswood ,we headed west.Only to venture .... 190klms to Pentland.Why?
Gailie spotted a stall,hit the skids and began to load fresh fruit n veg's into van. After chattin to the farmer for half hour,(as ya do)... 'kinda' lost the driving urge. Oh well-what's the hurry?
'Happy hour' was calling anyway,and the boys were nagging for a swim.Where? "Back there Mum" (kids don't miss anything) So in the van park we go & soon 3-silly-Billy-goats jumped in the freezing pool.
Only thing we got wet, was our throats.
Our overnight stay was entertaining . Boys met a rat named, 'Romeo',on his way to, hang on ..find a map.. Isisford.
They played footy with locals',watched a colourful lazer-light show & laughed loudly at a '4 wheeler' on 2 wheels!
Doing donuts & figure 8's, the larrikin driver, definitely a humorist,was demonstrating great education for our 3 men! HOW to safely ride a quadbike...NOT!
Later that night we experienced the coldest one for some time.Had planned to watch the eclipse..but bugger me.... Bed was warmer. John also learnt about travelling with satellite dishes from another vanner (keep learning dear 'cause we don't need one!) ... A very nice guy might I add, but forgotten how to take a breath!
New discoverys:
Gail's lesson at the pumps.....check there is no 'OUT OF ORDER' sign hanging, stuck or secretively displayed over the pump you've zoned in on.Not fun when towing a long van, your forced to do 360's just to get diesel (quad bike would've been handy)
Chow!
CruisinDownunder
Well, the 'cruisin mood' has really set in.......hence the lack of updates.... Sorry 'bout that!
After our 4 relaxing nights in Ravenswood ,we headed west.Only to venture .... 190klms to Pentland.Why?
Gailie spotted a stall,hit the skids and began to load fresh fruit n veg's into van. After chattin to the farmer for half hour,(as ya do)... 'kinda' lost the driving urge. Oh well-what's the hurry?
'Happy hour' was calling anyway,and the boys were nagging for a swim.Where? "Back there Mum" (kids don't miss anything) So in the van park we go & soon 3-silly-Billy-goats jumped in the freezing pool.
Only thing we got wet, was our throats.
Our overnight stay was entertaining . Boys met a rat named, 'Romeo',on his way to, hang on ..find a map.. Isisford.
They played footy with locals',watched a colourful lazer-light show & laughed loudly at a '4 wheeler' on 2 wheels!
Doing donuts & figure 8's, the larrikin driver, definitely a humorist,was demonstrating great education for our 3 men! HOW to safely ride a quadbike...NOT!
Later that night we experienced the coldest one for some time.Had planned to watch the eclipse..but bugger me.... Bed was warmer. John also learnt about travelling with satellite dishes from another vanner (keep learning dear 'cause we don't need one!) ... A very nice guy might I add, but forgotten how to take a breath!
New discoverys:
Gail's lesson at the pumps.....check there is no 'OUT OF ORDER' sign hanging, stuck or secretively displayed over the pump you've zoned in on.Not fun when towing a long van, your forced to do 360's just to get diesel (quad bike would've been handy)
Chow!
CruisinDownunder
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Here we go.....here we go....here we go.!
Well it was starting to look like we'd never leave.
After delaying for another 2 weeks, we finally hooked up the convoy, 22nd June & departed Townsville.Yee-Yar.
Don't get too excited, we haven't ventured far, camped at Ravenswood (one thing that's gone to plan).
Relaxing with the boys, school work to do,along with P.E including cricket,tennis and boucle.
Oakey our dog,won 'best player on the field', chasing balls all over the place.
In for another cool night, time to light the fire.
New discovery's:
Mitchell learnt leaving things on his top shelf while in transit, is not a good idea...roundabouts can send things flying!
From
Cruisin down Under
After delaying for another 2 weeks, we finally hooked up the convoy, 22nd June & departed Townsville.Yee-Yar.
Don't get too excited, we haven't ventured far, camped at Ravenswood (one thing that's gone to plan).
Relaxing with the boys, school work to do,along with P.E including cricket,tennis and boucle.
Oakey our dog,won 'best player on the field', chasing balls all over the place.
In for another cool night, time to light the fire.
New discovery's:
Mitchell learnt leaving things on his top shelf while in transit, is not a good idea...roundabouts can send things flying!
From
Cruisin down Under
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Have we gone yet?
Nope......still camping in the back yard.....I'm cleaning the house like a mad women, chasing gecko's & wiping finger marks that are, of course 'with love' from the boys. June 4th, tenant's move in & our "convoy" moves to Gail's parent's for a few days.Say cya to friends & family,then head west around the 8th. Only plan is...Ravenswood.(are u laughing) Stay for a few days then camp on the Burdekin River ....after that, it's 'where-ever'... Australia here we come.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Packing,packing,packing.....
What a task!
Sorting through belongings...deciding what to store,sell, give away, or burn... Yep,burn...the fun part!.
We've moved into the van,a month before we go, to adjust & to live with " the basics".
Yep, camping in the backyard......... the dog is wondering what the hell we're doing?
As food,clothing,medical needs,pots & pans are squeezed into cupboards...
I'm left to wonder where to put the 3 boxes of Distance Education?
Stay tuned....
Sorting through belongings...deciding what to store,sell, give away, or burn... Yep,burn...the fun part!.
We've moved into the van,a month before we go, to adjust & to live with " the basics".
Yep, camping in the backyard......... the dog is wondering what the hell we're doing?
As food,clothing,medical needs,pots & pans are squeezed into cupboards...
I'm left to wonder where to put the 3 boxes of Distance Education?
Stay tuned....
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