We ended up ticking one of our boxes recently. Packed a picnic lunch, caught the bus into the city, and visited the Botanical Gardens. A proper visit not just a quick wander through. Huge variety of plants from just about everywhere – Amazon Waterlilies, London Plane Trees, Mexican Cactus to name just a few. Gorgeous walkways branching off in every direction, secret little parks tucked away, pavilions and museums, cafes. Surprises around every corner! It was lovely to see lots of families getting together and enjoying it all – kids making the most of the space, parents sitting around catching up. Enjoyed our lunch sitting on a park bench watching the world go by. A lovely day out.
We also had a day out in Victor Harbor and Goolwa – south of Adelaide. A warm windy day – dusty haze. Photos where pretty average! Drove onto Hindmarsh Island near Goolwa and visited the mouth of the River Murray – part of the Coorong National Park. Not too many years ago the mouth of the river was in danger of dying. There’d been a 10 year drought and things were in crisis. Very little fresh water was finding its way down steam – and flowing fresh water is needed to flush the river mouth as it enters the sea. Fortunately the drought broke and the river was saved – a very close call. It would’ve been devastating for South Australia if the rains hadn’t come! We had a lovely lunch and catch up with friends Graham and Carol in Goolwa. I used to work with Carol interviewing prisioners – research on drug and alcohol use. Quite a few of the prisioners would end up sharing some very personal and often traumatic stuff as you sat and chatted. A privilege really.
Speaking of being “out for lunch” we caught the O-Bahn – a tracked bus system – to visit Ginny and Owen. This was very much a wine and food lover’s affair – they definitely enjoy both! Some very nice bubbles and cheeses to start, lemon chicken for mains – with some extra yummy reds, and a chocolate mousse thingy, strawberries and Italian biscuits for dessert! Will include some photos!! And earlier this week – sorry it’s getting repetitive – we had another special lunch at Parliament House in the city. Parliament House is where the South Australian State Government meets; laws legislated, decisions made. Things are run from there. Reg’s cousin John is a Member of Parliament – part of the The Legislative Council/Upper House/Senate/House of Lords – a different name in different places. Confusing but I think you’ll get my drift. Reg’s sister Leonie, brother Geoff – and their partners Charles and Nat – were also there. Lovely lunch, very flash surroundings. We had a private tour of both the upper and lower houses – I did get to sit in the Speaker’s chair for a little while. The Speaker keeps an eye on proceedings – makes sure things are all above board. Tells people off if needed! I enjoyed my moment of power!
Lots of love
Di and Reg
PS Off to the Riverland again on Friday. Lunch in the city again tomorrow, family for tea tomorrow night!
This entry was posted in Australia, House Sits, Vale Park, Adelaide
You have been busy ????
Yep – and loving it! What a great day at Parliament House – very special xx
Hi you two – see you are still in Oz – what are your plans in mid May? We are going to NZ for 10 days to visit our daughter and her family from 14-24 May – our house will be free during that time if you’re interested in coming to the East coast. Cheers
Hi….lovely to hear from you. We’ll be in the Riverland all of May and most of June – lots of catching up with Reg’s Mum and family/friends. Thanks for thinking of us – much appreciated. Enjoy your time in NZ xx