It was a busy couple weeks in Australia; a miscellany of many things, starting in Melbourne. We looked after our granddaughters for a few days; busy times indeed working around their activities. We visited the National Art Gallery to see the Triennial exhibition; a host of fabulous contemporary art. NaniViv (as I’m called), was travel-worn and hot, but the girls not. I suggested afternoon tea, and they suggested the city centre. We did both. It was fun trying on clothes at Cotton On, and buying a top each. Though they were extra excited when I suggested shoe shopping, having just lost a heel off mine at the gallery. Next came groceries, and the need for fruit ‘straps’ for a secret treat they wished to make for dessert. They had no idea these would harden on contact with the ice cream and cause a spectacular dripping.

I loved being with the girls, and enjoyed throwing hoops, seeing their art, hearing their stories, readying them for bed, untangling hair, and fixing neat plaits ready for school.

The finale was the 15yr-old’s birthday, once the parents were home, which began with a wonderful unwrapping of gifts. I’m pleased to say NaniViv’s kimono gift went down well. Next was a substantial and delicious brunch out, with the spectacular cake made by her mum, eaten on return. It was certainly delicious, which deserved a very long walk afterwards, but as the temperature was near to 40 degrees, we settled for a lazy afternoon, feet-up, with the air-con on.

We got to visit the three week old great-grandson too, which was special. He was fractious with the heat and unsettled, as were Mum and Dad too I think, so we kept that visit to a minimum. We returned a couple of days later when the weather had thankfully cooled a little and we were able to spend more time with him. Kerry loved the wee baby, and couldn’t wait to hold him, and of course I took a photo of them both.

Although the koala bear was twice baby’s size, it was well-received by its parents, and is being kept in a safe place until the baby is capable of cuddling it.

Next post will cover our road trip along the Great Ocean Road, which was adventure filled from the start.

See you later.