A Wintry Day

Well blow me down !!!! Or was that just the high winds in the mountains once again. Had to slow down on the road on the way back from a housesit on the Bells Line of Road to visit the in-laws and had to stop behind a long line of cars. What now?? Over the last year we've have many stops on this road, with pot holes being filled, tree trimming by the electricity people, whole sections re-tarred, new line painting, electric people again - replacing poles and then this time, cleaning up the remnants of yet another tree which decided to lay it;s life on the line - LOL - and lie across the road to try and trap the unwary motorist. Alas, poor tree - you were reported by a vigilant local ! No laying down on the road and resting when you could be someones firewood. Never fall down here where it's been freezing cold and the locals trying to keep warm - you gave them what they wanted - your fine bark upon their fireplaces :)

The heaters are cranked up high and by the smell in the air and the pervading mist of smoke, many fireplaces must be burning brightly in the hearths, thus keeping their owners warm. I love the clicking sound of my own oil heater as it hums along keeping my toes toasty and my brow sweating. LOL. Sometimes I think his Lordship likes being hot - never mind warm. I sometimes think that too hot equals getting sicker quicker, because when we venture outside the brisk wind and icy air sucks the breath out of us and chills us to the bone.

At least the wintry weather is kind to my lavender plants. Have four different types in this collection of twelve and they look good for much of the year. The deep hues of purple come out during Winter. Nice to look at and even better to smell. And the decline of bees although noticeable in the mountains seems not to be too effected within this patch.

A little break between 'sits' and work and so we are busy mending and erecting new fences for parentals, visiting friends, parents, children and grandchildren and tending to the needs of some of our relos who are not in the best of health at the moment. News of births encourage - a little girl for Shiri & Lloyd, a little boy for Rebecca and another grandson to come for me before the year is ended.

And of course, I have to write and let you join in :))

Life goes on and so do we. Enjoying the moments.

Miles of Smiles - Lady Di

Another Winter's Day in the Life of Aussie Lord Stephen and Lady Di of Glencoe

Well, its a Monday and you know what they say about Mondays. Tis the day that the working week starts and any people love to take a sicky. Well I have been sick for a while so am sitting on the lounge writing whilst my grandson watches the television and plays with the end of the vacuum cleaner.

Laird Mason on his new transport mode :))

Am in the Blue Mountains of NSW today and its wet, misty and freezing cold. I have his littlest Lairdship sitting on the floor of our cabin watching Zigby - a cartoon on the television. He was standing at the glass doors looking out. I had only just finished wiping the windows down of moisture - its warmer inside so the window is streaming with condensation - that;s how cold it is. As the Laird (who is 20 months old) says - whydo pupdogblahblah grr - I think that means Why can;t I go outside with the dogs? LOL

Just looked up from the keyboard to see him kissing he television characters. LOL. He is a funny little man. I don;t usually like the television being on to keep children amused, but we aren't in a house so there isn't room to run about much but have allowed it to remain on to keep him amused while I do a bit of blogging.

From my doorway. Wet, Cold & Misty

I have some new puzzles that have shapes and automobiles for him to work out - it's working too. We have one of those old fashioned sketchographs - now that has been entertaining! He loves scribbling and using the shapes stamps on that.

Newest Blogger

Had to stop doing my sewing cause little fingers want to help me ll the time, and I have to watch he doesn't pull out my wireless internet connection again. Gosh he keeps me busy. His Lordship is busily making some metalwork flowers and animals for a nursery. They're are looking good and apparently sell well. Its freezing in the workshop, his Lordship has a fire going in there but says his right hand is freezing. Has a heap of left hand gloves - cause they don't wear away as quick as the right handed ones. Happens when you're dealing with hot metals.

How could I not love Laird Mason? Blowing a kiss to Nan.

Still waiting on his Lairdships little brother's arrival. He obviously is waiting his full 'cooking' time in Mummies tummy. His Lordship and I are eagerly awaiting the safe arrival of our newest grandson and can't wait to show him off to you all, and of course get in for a cuddle. Hope his temperament is like his brother's. Have told my son and daughter in law, I am happy to have as many grandkids like this one as they wish to have. LOL

 

Climbed through the bottom rails, I thought he would get stuck (saw ready to cut him out it not), stood up and grabbed the other stool off me as I was putting it near the table, so put it on top and got this cheeky grin :))

Going to http://www.highlandtitles.com/ to purchase two new plots for the newest grandsons :)) Laird Mason and Laird ?? Why don't you do the same for your grandchildren and purchase a tree for it as well. Help reforest Glencoe Highlands. A truly unique and wonderful gift for anyone, even yourself.

Well it's almost sleep time for his Lairdship, he is starting to be a little naughty - something he does when tired - touch stuff he knows he isn't to touch and doing sleepy boy things - so it's bye from me for now.

:))) Lady Di

What Does One Say ??

I had a friend ask me yesterday about my 'Title", to which I asked what would you like to know? She then asked 'Well, how did you became a Lady?'

Of course I stated - I've always been a Lady as this was found out at my birth !!

You know there's a couple of differences when a child is born - it's a BOY or it's a GIRL !! That's the way announcements go. Well, she spat a little of her coffee, not LadyLike I'm afraid, and belted out a belly laugh, another not so LadyLike thing to do. After her little splutter and cough we chatted about the title. I told her about my mother in law being born in the Highland Barracks as her father was one of the Queens Guards throughout the 1930's. My friend was so impressed, after I told her the title was placed upon my grandfather-in-law. After ummming and ooooing, I couldn't keep from smiling myself. The story about Grandad is very true, alas the Ladyship and Lordship he passed along was not.

   I thought I would add a recent portrait of myself here :))

 

i CAME CLEAN HERE.I showed her my papers, and explained how I inherited a title upon purchasing a plot of land in Scotland, thereby becoming a Scottish Landowner. With our plots of land, we are able to plants trees helping our 'scottish roots' take hold in a grand way. What other way can we help our future 'children' if we do not look after our Earth, and restore the highlands to their former glory?

Terribly impressed, she asked when we visited our land last. I was able to show her photos on the internet - thank you Lords and Ladies of Glencoe. My pictures included my pets, and forbears, and the remnants of our castle :)

 

My Pet - 'Coe'  

A portrait done of my highland cattle

I have added some 'family' portraits here so you can see what glorious lineage I come from.

Jane's possible portrait

Our highland cattle has eaten everything but a few sods of earth. We purchase a special tree every year, to be placed on the highlands, and each time it's in one of our families names. Quite some time ago, both my Lordship and myself FOUND WE do come from titled persons, alas they did not pass them down to us the right way as there was problems in the past. Lord Stephens great Uncle Harold's Grandmother 'Jane' was a titled Lady herself. Though she was never known as such. Back in the years gone by, when a child was born early - now known as premature - that child was deemed to be born on the wrong side of the blanket - and possibly illegitimate and not the child of the supposed sire. I believe after the death of the original Lord, the first born son and the second and only other child born entered into a family dispute. This dispute ended up with all entailed being taken by the Chancellory, and the titles died with the parent.

 

As you can see - this castle is in good repair

Alas this castle is not - not even anywhere near me :))

Lord Stephen of Glencoe my Lordship

Not the reason for becoming Lord and Lady H though. I found a website by chance after looking up or what I call trying to find the Scottish roots of Steve and myself. I thought what a great wedding anniversary presie for His Lordship !! Always one for unusual or presents that one would not necessarily buy for oneself person, I deemed this to be perfect and went on to purchase same for myself - another little story there - joint anniversary presies - and one plot for Lord Nathan, Lord Brendan, Lady Kobe and little Laird Jordan :))) Usually I send Lord Steve up in the air in a Helicopter Lesson, or a Portrait (cartoon like) of him sitting on his motorbike, with one of our Schnauzer pups behind him, sword in hand and a cheesy grin, and the latest - a trip and luxury stay (c/-coupon buying - the canny Scot in me)  to the Great Ocean Road.

Me as a wee Lass

 

 

So Ladies, Lords and Lairds of Glencoe - What do you tell the people who ask you ?? I would love to see your written responses - so go ahead and add them here for all to see. It's actually a GREAT story to be told to all.

 

Many smiles - Lady Di

 

Another Laird of Glencoe is almost BORN !!!

How lucky am I? Lord Steve and I  have two beautiful grandsons and a third is on his way. No secrets here - my family (brothers included) are destined to be male dominated. My eldest brother and his wife have one son - probably thought that was enough and stopped. My own family consists of two boys and then lucky me, I had me a girl. My youngest brother has six - yes that's right - 6 boys!!! And now my own children look destined to follow suite. My father was one of three boys and Mum one of two girls, so you would think there would be some fairness and sharing of sexes. That is, at least some girls would come about - alas - like myself, there is one female per generation. My youngest son Lord B, has two boys - both pictured, and suprise, suprise, there is another little boy is about to be born - scan pic below.  He is coming to us next month! Hopefully in the future Lady K and her Navy Hubby ( he promises me all Naval men have girls !!!) and Lord N and his partner will also fill our hearts and our homes with children, though I am quite happy to have three gorgeous Granddogs to love :)))

This is Laird Jordan or JB - my eldest grandchild, who at 6 - almost 7 (not till December 10th) Nanna. He loves everything his Daddy likes. That is cars and motorbikes. He also loves hats - again like his Dad, and has amassed an amazing collection of them and little cars. The picture below shows him in his bedroom at Dad's. I started him off with some pirate things, and he seems to have got carried away with those too....or more probably his Dad. LOL.  He loves coming to see his Daddy and I think his favourite food is Mcdonalds and other fastfoods though he does adore chocolate milk and icecream.

This cheeky little chap is MJ, who will be two on November 1st. His smile lights up any room, and his enormous blue eyes which are exactly like Mummies, are gorgeous. Not sure why the car is in his mouth, probably cause his Mum calls him motormouth :)) Always welcomes his Nan and Pa will a cuddle and kiss. Runs to the door and swoops on us - just lovely !! The photo above shows him in his element, he also loves cars and is always mucking around with Daddy while he paints and fixes up mini-trucks. Dad is like his own father - they both love motorcycles - seems to be a thing with all the males in my family! Think little MJ may talk his Dad into getting him a motorbike, quicker rather than later. This little man loves his food - anything at all - and everything is his favourite. The kind of kid everyone loves to have around too. If they can make more like him, I'll take six - LOL. .



This is the latest little man on the right in his latest scan. Due in August and we can't wait to meet him! We may not be able to wait, but mother nature says we have to, so we will wait till Mummy obliges. In this image he is waving to his Daddy LOL. Now I will have to get busy and design another quilt for this little fellow. Have pretty well decided on wild animals - what no tartan!!! I will have to get some Glencoe Tartan for my boyz, so if anyone knows where I can get some in Australia - can you let me know please?

I will have to purchase a little more land and makes these youngest two little Lairds of Glencoe too :) Must get onto one of my favourite websites below, again soon as this latest little fellow gets here - need his full name - I know part of it - but the middle name is a secret !!!

http://lairdoflocaber.com

http://lochaberhighlandestates.com

http://highlandtitles.com

Chat again soon - Smiles - Lady Di :))

Another Milestone - Around my Neck -- Happy Birthday Lady Di

Who said birthdays are fun? Some certain hubby rubbing extra year in face at every occasion - wait buddy cause you've only got a few more years till your next large milestone birthday - OKAY !!! Hear me buddy!! And I WILL write about it on my blog in October - hear me? Anyway at least he remembered and left my birthday presie I selected and laybyed for him to go get so he could say he bought it, only to have to go and pay and collect - then he leaves it in a drawer at my Mum;s home !!! So I did a little retail therapy of my own, some nice new sheets - in a lovely purple shade of course, chocys, oil burner, neck pillow and a yummy mega chocolate birthday cake later - I came home :))

Had just spent a couple of nights with my daughter as her navy hubby was away and had a little girl time with her and hubby just had to go to his sports club on Saturday - my birthday - so I said, go - stuff around and I will go visit my nephew and nieces (adopted by me by choice) and have a cuppa with their Dad as well, Mum was at work :(( shame that - we always have a great chinwag. Then the shopping where I bought an enormous amount of fruit and veg :)) Except when I got home and opened the apples - there was mega soft bits on them - shame veggie shop - shame !!

I had a presie from my bro and sisinlaw - gorgeous stuff she made me - decorated a bag, a triangular doorstop and a hand made wood and glass display for my wall :)) Thanks Nique & Baz. Funniest thing is - we are decorating the same bags :))) So much of our craft at the moment is exactly the same and we live hundreds of kilometres away from each other - amazing again that soe of the items are so close in making its scary lol

This pic is sooooo true LOL

My kids rememberd me this year too - thanx for the sms's - I am soooo worthy of them. Hubby came home and rushed off to have a shower - let's go out and have dinner and go to the movies - so I checked the movies - went through them and stated them out loud - nup not that one - his Lordship says - nope that;s a kids prgram - funny that since it's school holidays again - nup, nup, nope, oh yeah that one - Snow White and the Huntsman. Soooo grown up. So dinner we had - lovely steak and a beer at the pub - yep - the pub and then went to check in at the cinema - WT????? A two hour wait, so we headed back to the pub, which is closest to the cinema and waited for a bit before deciding that 9.25pm was another 1..25 hours away and journeyed home. Have tried again to see it - another two hour wait - must be my old bones - can't walk quick enough to get there so miss out LOL



I particularly like this one - thanx a lot!!

A great quote I like is - The best way to remember your wife's birthday is to remember it once !!

One I made up is - Your birthday lasts 366 days a year - as you never age a day till the next birthday !! Who goes around saying I am 50 years, 8 months, and three weeks and 4 days ???? So 50 for all that time is very good huh? And once you reacdh 50 you are legally allowed to go backwards My choice and I am sticking to it !!!



Am so lucky to have friends, personally, on Facebook and via my Blog. have have heaps of well wishes - it's been awesome - so thank you all very very much -  mwah !!!! Life isn;t so serious when you can chat to a friend. I wrote to a lady only a month or so ago - and feel we have a lot in common already. I know when I am writing I can share funny anedotes, stories and read what you say and hope I respond with care, lightheartedness, fun, concern and all the emotions I feel from your notes.





Well it's time to be off and enjoy another round of cr** on the television and then off to bed.. Am doing some craft whilst I 'watch; - can cope well that way. That's a noisy square shape with pictures flashing on and off in it - at the moment there is a cougar that just caught a large bird and is crunching on it - lovely - :( glad I have already eaten my dinner.......



Dee

A Storm's A Coming.....

hmmmmmm. Just heard on the news channel that the mountains of NSW are going to experience a storm. DER. The television is already mucking up, so we are getting our candles and torches to the ready. Water in the jugs - yes its electric but I have a gas stove and pans to boil water LOL.. And a large bucket or two of water for the loo cause that also requires water - funny that.

So have had dinner and a nice cuppa and might have to go to bed early, cause as soon as there is any thunder - the electricity will be turned off so as not to blow up all our electricals. That has happened before.

Only last week whilst  we were off enjoying ourselves the power went out due to trees falling on lines and an accident on the main road. Unfortunately that buggered up the fridge/freezer and we came home to a mess. A smelly trully awful mess, meat was soooo off and everything else in fridge disgusting too - luckily for us, garbage day was the following day. So there wasn't anything left to eat other than what we keep in cans, luck has it I have rice milk and that is in long life containers and hubby drinks his tea black :)) Have to make a claim on the insurance - about time I got something back after decades of payments.

These pics above were taken during and after the last been 'storm' we had. A carpet of white made it look like the Snowy Mountians instead of the Blue Mountains.

Going to investigate getting some more stuff for the puta and so I can blog more - you know it's old age - you know - the gigabyte thing. I only have 3 gigs a month and the way I am writing and using the computer I will need to increase it as soon as possible. Maybe I should send hubby to Telstra again as when he went today he got positive results after complaining of the 30 messages from Telstra saying his credit was less by the call, though they promised him a longer usage time. Although I reckon I can rock this little boat all by myself. I said to him, behave yourself and you get good results. LOL.  He came back and the first words to me were - I behaved myself and I got results. He was only gone 25 minutes too :)) So we are hoping in 21 days time we don't get messages all day long about running out of credit - cause I know he will do his block.

Going off so my puta lives to tell another blog tomoz

Nite all - Dee

Almost at the end of the Great Ocean Road Holiday

Ballarat to Bendigo via Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Found a motel on the net - again through http://www.booking.com/ - great place to get great deals at the last minute. Pity there was no milk for a cuppa in the room though. No-one at the desk to ask for some - luckily I spot a petrol station next door - not that I like petrol in my tea - but they sell milk in cartons there - funny that . The visitor next door had his car over our car spot so we had to take up number 30's spot - luckily no one was booked in for the night. The motel looked quite different from the photo - in the morning we could see why - the newer suites were at the back . As it was pouring we reversed in to get our stuff out that we needed but didn't see the huge puddle of water laying in wait to get the unseeing. LOL. Wet slippers. Another cold and wet night. His Lordship was overly tired today. Wonder why with all the stopping, walking and playing tourists.

Found a few Patchwork shop addresses in the phone book and just had to go see a couple - or three planned for tomorrow:))

The first one I came to in Victoria Street was closed till 10am - forgot we were in the country, so we head off to the second one on the list, we can always come back later. This one closer to the centre of town in Mair Street.  Sovereign Needlework - Ballarat's largest supplier of 'Fine Needlework' was just opening and Elaine the owner for the past 12 months was checking that the log fire was going - just to keep the customers warm mind you. I was 'warmly' greeted and welcomed to browse around whilst she continued to open up. Lovely wools, fine fabrics and embroidery cottons of every colour imaginable hung on the walls. Great quilters patterns as well as ones for crochet, knitting and tapestries were strewn around the displays. I just happened to purchase a ball of wool for a scarf and another piece of fabric for my GORVQ (Victoria quilt) too.

His Lordship was busily checking a store two doors us - just something he had to do as it encompassed all the sports he loves.

Next stop was the store that was closed beforehand. We waited a little longer as it was still before opening time. The window display was very ecletic with Melly and Me patterns and all the latest fabrics. Beautifully done quilts, bags, toys etc around for display. The owner was busily tapping away on her computer. I did feel I was interupting her a bit when I asked questions - there was no-one else in the store so I thought it was okay. Purchased a couple of bits and pieces though I can't say I felt welcomed here.

My next stop was opposite an amazing church built from Ironstone where Lord S dutifully took some photos for me - the tourist thing - while I HAD to go into a store professing a SALE!! My goodness!! A sale!!!!   Isn't that just was a patchworker loves?

Eureka Patchwork :)))

Elizabeth cutting my fabrics

'The Selection!!!!'

Eureka Patchwork at the corner of Victoria Street amd King Street was calling me. I walked into the store and said 'Good Morning' to anyone who was listening as I always do. Alison was busily cutting and sorting fabrics behind one counter and welcomed me in. WOW - a glorious range of fabrics in all sorts of tonings, colourways and beautifully displayed fabrics that said 'pick me' 'pick me'! SO I did. I was told all fabrics were $20 a metre but they were having a sale and everything on display was now $15 a metre. Elizabeth the owner came out to greet me. What a wonderful lady. Showed me the latest collection of fabrics from Jenny Beyer, her secret stashes out back - as there wasn't anywhere else out front to put them, some fabrics in between and more. Elizabeth showed me a catalogue of the Stone Collection of fabrics coming in soon - very very noice :))

Elizabeth is trying to amass 2000 bolts of fabric for her store - and by the look of it is succeeding very well. A few dollars later pffffft, I have added to my Fabric Library some gorgeous things. Toy Fabric, some for my GORVQ and a little more LOL. Both some fabric for a gift too - just know the recipient will love the colours.

Thank you so much Elizabeth & Alison for being so genuine, warm and welcoming to this traveller :)) Check their website -  If you are looking for a particular type of fabric Elizabeth probably has it or knows where you can find it :))
Travel on driver !!!!

Drove on to Creswick where I thought I was going to see a craft store - called Lemon Tree Cafe - ok - some painting and produce on the walls but not quite the craft I was looking to see - by the way - wasn't all fabrics - I do love other crafts and already made ones :)) Right next door was Twin Needles - Embroidery & Patchwork Supplies where  the owner Elaine was telling me they produce their own Crewel Wools, Stranded silks and Organdy ribbons under the name Cascade House. Beautiful. I bought a pattern for embroidering a baby blanket with wools to match. I also got some ribbbon and fabric for the GORVQ.Well worth a visit either in person or on the internet.  http://www.cascadehouse.com.au/

By the way - I did not get anything for FREE at any of the stores I visited - just in case any of you are wondering why I am 'advertisng' for the stores I visit. I AM NOT - I am just passing on where I went on my travels and a personal view to what I see and hear.

Onwards to Daylesford where I had hoped to indulge in 'the waters' to help my ailing bod. But alas time was going quicker than our eyes and car. I perused some stores in Daylesford and found some lovely presies. The Tourist Information Centre was very helpful with their maps and displays. East to see where one should go and see and stay by looking at them. Very well done.

I found Threadneedle Craft in Vincent Street, Daylesford - the main street - where I was invited to look and ask for help should I need it - this gentleman's family lived in Newscastle and we had a quick chat on that topic as well as the type of fabrics he kept as that is what his local customers were after. Got three pieces of fabric for the GORVQ.

Next we stopped at Hepburn Springs - where I did not partake of the waters nor did I 'see' any springs. Might not have been looking in the right place, so next time :))

Up the hill a bit, the journey was starting to take a dark turn. I was laden with enough pills to keep a race horse from the track , that was doing little help to my pain wracked leg and back. Lord S stopped so I could stretch - it was less than 3/4 hour since the last stop - things were looking uncomfortable for the travel ahead.

Onwards towards Ballarat is the Chocolate Mill.

The Selection

A well built straw bale building greets the visitor with a pleasant entry garden. Within the garden is metalwork animals - Kangaroos, Echidnas and Emus. Inside there is a chocolate lovers haven. All made within the walls - this hallowed chocolate lovers paradise beckons.....take me home.....eat me now....take me home. Everything chocolate ...... Chilli, Fruit, Nut, Plain, Dark, White, Rum and sooooo many more. His Lordship and I selected a few chocolates and $17.50 later - 10 chocolates. Hot dark chocolate and mudcake we shared then left to venture on.

Looking for a motel room tonight with a bath tub as I really need to soak the bones. First one we found at Kangaroo Flat - his lordship went in to check - nope its already booked even though the computer link says it isn't - so onto look again - yep - found one - lets see. His Lordship comes back with a key - goodness knows what he has found as he isn't the most budget conscious person at times. Driving into a darkened area, reversing up - where the h is he going to I think. Opening the door - I thought - Honeymoon Suite - LOL. Well it is 35 years since we stayed at Bendigo. This time there is a huge king size bed that greets me at the door, with TV and dressing table to the left, a small wood dining table at the back with a kitchenette (no microwave though that's another  $15 for three nights the brochure states lol). I need to refresh myself - and kapow - there is a spa bath - thanks heavens you say - I did ask for a bath if possible -its a DOUBLE spa bath!!!! I hold my stomach and I laugh in hysterics!! Within 15 minutes I had my bag in the room and was sitting in that spa bath with a glass of wine and soft bubbles, blowing my cares away. My body was saying thanks.

Funny 35 years 3 months and 2 weeks ago exactly - our 'Honeymoon' of 3 days - we had $150 left in our bank account after Lord S's truck needed mechanical repairs the week before our wedding, this our livelihood - :( consisted of a caravan somewhere near Sovereign Hill and the cost of 2012's one night accommodation (gonna throttle him) was enough to pay (1977) for the petrol to travel, the caravan park we stayed at and where the heating consisted of a blow heater under the bed and our coats on top of the meagre blanket we were given, the attractions we saw - S.H. and Kryall Castle and the food we ate. But we did enjoy the sights of end of the Begonia Festival, the swans etc and the one small much treasured honeymoon souvenir - a Glass Blown Horse which was done for us whilst we watched and waited the craftsman to do.

Going off to plot the push onwards ....... Dee

Port Campbell to Ballarat

The day starts at Port Campbell after a great snooze and lie in. Again the weather is with us - rain that is.

Doll Heads displayed at the Port Campbell Tourist Information Centre found from ship wrecks.

The view of Port Campbell.

Well, who'd have thought such a little distance could take such a long time to travel.
So much to see:)))))))) Grotto, London Bridge, Bay of Islands, Bay of Martyrs, Crofts Bay, Boat Bay, Massacre Bay probably more.

London Bridge has fallen down

Kept watching the waves crashing on the coastline.

We had the tourist information staff laughing at Warrnambool when we said we'd had a busy day so far. We had left Port Campbell the largest suburb next door to Warrnambool and travelled 6 hours. The distance travelled way less than 100 kilometres lol. Too busy having fun, stopping every five minutes -  well it seemed like that anyway - to traverse the tops of the GOR coastline, take photos, gaze in absolute
adoration at the sights before us, and wonder at Mother Natures magnificence. So much in fact, anyone who asks, will get a descriptive monologue of everything you can see while driving on The Great Ocean Road.

Stopped in to the supermarket and picked up supplies for a picnic. Then there was the - do we stay here or do we gone on monologue. We decided to go on a bit further. On the top of the mountain range I was perusing the maps when His Lordship mutters - whoa- and slows the car. He thought there was a dog sitting in the middle of the very busy road. In fact, it was a weary looking adult male Koala!! Soft, grey fur fluttering in the breeze. All I could think was, please let the car coming the other way see it - we put our flashers on and pulled to the side of the road so other cars could see why we were stopped as we tried to usher him off the road. The other car coming towards us came to a halt - in the middle of the highway - and opened his car door onto the Koala's back pushing him on. He didn't move, so together with the other driver we scooted him off the road and into the line of gumtrees we could see some 200 metres from the road.  I hurried back and drove the still running car of the other person onto the side of the road as there were some big prime mover trucks coming up. The driver nodded in appreciation and both cars headed their seperate directions. Thats even closer than the last Koala encounter. Lucky for this one - he did not get run over.

At the side of the road at Ellerslie is an old bridge with the cleanest BBQ/Toilet and picnic area we have seen throughout our travels. So we stopped and partook our feast before travelling on to Ballarat.
Got onto a website to help us find accomodation for the night, booked it and stopped. Busy road though - a little noisy, but Lord S did not notice as as soon as his head hit the pillow he was out like a light :) Nite S No cuppa tonight - the proprietor forgot to give us milk.

Nite all :)) Till the moro comes

There's still Rain

Sunday - There's Still Rain. Supposed to be Showers

What a day - yesterday was. Still on a high - pun intended - after flying above our Earth checking out The Great Ocean Road by air. My back pain is exacurbated - but worth it. Meds are used - as you can see by the basket - and the patches changed today - so there should be little residual pain. I am happy that Steve is also having a great time - hopefully not too much walking today as I don't have anything but a walking stick to help me along.. His Lordship says this is the best ever gift bestowed upon him - he says .....

We are off to see from the ground what we saw from the plane. The Twelve Apostles, then as far as time and our persons will take us. I hope to drop into the Cheese Factory and a wonderful Patchwork shop I have seen in magazines. I will take photos for you to see it too if I can. (Unfortunately its closed so I did not get to see inside :( )

Just about time to leave our lovely Beacon Point accommodation. Had the last of the croissants with coffee and juice this morning so that'll keep us going till later on. Had showers and feel refreshed and ready for the coming days activities and adventures. Everything is about to be packed into the car. Ooops neighbours - putting out the rubbish. Just as well we are dressed and ready to go LOLOL

Stopped in to see the Farmers Market at Apollo Bay this morning - MUM your Markets at Forster, NSW are amazing! Enough said ? A very little market with vegies, plants and displays of local cheese and wine.
Continuing our way along the GOR and the coastline to the west we came across so much - I must warn you all that a few days down here is so NOT enough. You need to add a week to see everything - because if you don't you are going to miss out on so many sights. And you have to keep stopping on and off because that coastline beckons you to view it - inclement weather as well. It lures you and pulls you to it.

Stopped to view Castle Cove - amazing - once again I have little descriptive words as you can see for yourself what you get to view....
We came upon another great town called Beauty Spot - must be a cool and wet place as the farmers fence posts are covered thickly in lichen. Stopped to see the ocean at Yuulon. A container Ship was visible in the distance. The locals here have the most amazing sights to behold. I imagine they get little done when working - butmost are grazing cattle.
The sun came out and I said to my hubby the words - sunshine and happiness - and we both started singing at the same time. Made us laugh.
Listen to it on the net - it soo fits where we are at the moment.
http://www.redbubble.com/people/kazm/works/1092814-sunshine-lollipops-and-rainbows



10 kilometres tro Princeton now ---- raining - again - but no Apostles here like we thought - its the start of the Twelve Apostles National Park. There is a couple of Cafe/Shops etc for information and coffee and heaps of accommodation. So close to seeing the Twelve Apostles. Am so excited as we have been waiting so long to do so. Four years of planning and four times we have had to cancel due to inclement weather - February and September four years ago, last year we had to take out holiday early and had to cancel due to family ill health and Christmas so thought February - nah that didn't happen - where we ever going to see the Twelve Apotsles and the GOR? Well this time almost got cancelled again as a family member needed help with accommodation. BUT we decided to help first but still go otherwise it wouldn't happen.
Want to live by the GOR and the coastline so close to the Apostles? Well there is 96 acres here for sale. - Southern Ocean Views the advertisement at the front of the block states.

Stopped at the Gibson Steps !!! FREEZING and blowing a right gale. Here we got to see - yes we are there - the First Apostle!!!!! WOW Further along the road is the official spot to stop, park and walk to the Apostles viewing platforms. OMG OMG OMG - you have to be there to appreciate them. Helped overseas visitors take photos of them and the Apostles behind them. So easy to understand the finger points to the button to ouch to take photos. Many thanks in different languages. Lovely to see people just smiling and sharing his magnificient sight, that we Aussies have in our 'backyards'. Spent quite a while gluing our eyes and etching what we see in our minds eye.

Back at the Kiosk many people buy coffee - we are all so cold! Rain on and off but helicopters offering all types of flights from $95 for 10 mins to hundreds of dollars for longer trips. Saw heaps of helicopter flights today. Didn't go on this one though - the weather was atrocious - I would have been a little to full of adenilin.

The sun and rain take turns in showing off what they could do whilst touring the Apostles. Was actually wonderful. Glistening drops of water and darkened rained filled clouds then sparkling sun complete with rainbows showing the various hues of yellows and ochres of the sandstone that makes up the Apostles.

I have no more words that can describe the beauty and magnificence of the Twelve Apostles. Not all can be seen at the same time as some hide behind each other and not all areas for viewing can enable the viewer to see them - unless you're in that helicopter I spoke of.

COFFEE!!!!!! Thanks to his Lordship who walked through the rain with my little purple umbrella to stand in line for coffee and banana bread (made locally at Timboon), though I know he was thinking of his tummy as it was approaching late morning tea time. LOL

Reddened noses from the freezing temperatures and eyes weeping from the cooling winds blowing across our faces - also icing our fingertips.. People from the 'world' gather here to share the beauty of our coast - I find this wonderful as there is no anomosity or dislike here.

Loch Ard and its hidden treasures were our next stop - where we seemed to lose time. Down came the rain again and we stood by some bushes sheltering from the icy side falling rain. Good smooching spot though - gotta warm up somehow. Here we spot more caves and soft sandstone. No wonder there are signs stating stay away from the edge or it could collapse and you will DIE! Yes it states that- so many people do not stay behind fencelines - we even saw a couple on one spot near Shearwater River and the waves crashed so high it almost caught them. Wonder they weren't dragged off by the waves - no-one could have saved them. We were about 500 metres away but there was a gorge & heathland between us.

At Port Campbell, I walked to the top of a rise for a photo op - no fences here - to find the edge - scary that. Took some pics and calm back to the car. Looked around and noted that the road stopped suddenly with poles in the middle of it - did it disappear at some time? Got to find that out tomorrow. Looking for accommodation because our short 100 kilometre trip has taken us 6 1/2 hours!!!! No wonder we feel hungry - what happened to lunchtime?

Stopped at the Port Campbell Tourist Centre - lovely display of ship wreck finds - to talk to a lovely lady about sightseeing and somewhere to stay for the night. If we travelled any further we would miss the Arch - well whats left of it and London Bridge - yep there is one apparently - a sandstone one - watch for that tomorrow, so decided to stop. Found accommodation and the manager  Mark - told us the pub just 500 metres away had great food. (He showed me through and turned on the air conditioner to heat up the room for us.  So we walked there after unloaded our baggage and sat companionably while we waited for the bistro to open.

Having troubles this evening at Port Campbell trying to upload as I can only get two bars on my internet reception - probably because we asre in the ,ain street at a lovely upmarket backpackers - in ?? Street. Nice clean and comfortable motel style accomodation with a comfy bed, small kitchenette and TV as well as a well appointed ensuite - not expensive and just what a busy traveller requires at the end of the day.

Had dinner at the pub - yum. Took a walk after tea towards the shoreline of Port Campbell where a new wall has been built to keep the sea from swallowing the lower township up. Pics tomoz as its a wee bit dark for moi to do. Had a fall - yep - that's my luck again. The walk to the waters edge is pavers and my luck was some sticking up and down I went.  Knocked the wind out of me as I landed on my right hand , knees - more off the right one - and my chest. LOL you say. I am still hurting. The local policeman just happened to be cruising the streets and stopped to see why this lady was laying down on the footpath with a man kneeling next to her - hubby. They helped me up and the very kind police officer offered us a lift back to the accomodation. We thanked him for helping. Hot shower and write up the blog was the agenda but the internet is so slow I may have to send in the morning.


http://www.redbubble.com/people/kazm/works/1092814-sunshine-lollipops-and-rainbows
Sunshine & Happiness lyrics
Like a beacon on the ocean, you guide my way
You replace that empty feeling, whats left to say
You just smile in times of darkness, that lights my day
Bringing joy inside of sorrow, on a holiday
Like a flower blooms in spring time, sweet and complete
Making my life worth the living, you set me free
A ray of light you shine so brightly for all to see
In the midst of stormy weather, you cumber sea
You are my sunshine and my happiness (4x)
In the middle of the evening, I'm all alone
Cuz im thinking bout you baby, I'm dying of cold
Searching and im always finding, the joy you bring
Cuz you're patient through the hard time, that makes me
sing
Many times within my weakness, you gave me strength
I give thanks for what you've shown me, you're heaven
sent
----------------

Nite all - sweet dreams - I reckon mine will be walking and viewing over and over agian the sights I have taken in today :))) Dee

Excitement Plus Adrenilin = WOWOWOWOWOW

Saturday, 16 June 2012

Saturdays Adventures and what amazing ones they were!!!

What to do today? We planned to visit the markets in Apollo Bay and what else, well we hadn't planned though we had an idea but weren't sure if we could do it.

So we drove down to the 'markets' only to see four stalls in the carpark with little to look at. I know it was drizzling and wet the previous days but there were only dark clouds and spittles of rain today. I really thought there would be some great artesians work here to see :(

Oh well - next plan? We thought hard about a helicopter trip as we had seen a sign at Marengo which is the next suburb along the GOR. SO we drove in and asked the young fellow there - Jay - what was on offer. We saw a small plane and thought aha. Is this what we would be going it. It was confirmed by the pilot. He shows us the map and explained which flights we could do with him, He told us the price which we were happy with and so we then chose the flightpath to The Twelve Apostles and back!

In the single engine Piper plane :) About to go! I was apprehensive, scared, excited and all other sorts of feelings were going through me.

Amazingly beautiful coastline GOR

Our first view of the coast was of the oceans shoreline. Places we would never have seen by car as the GOR doesn't get that close in some parts. The plane was jumping all over the place. The wind and the sea were taunting us. Ooops I hit my head and Lord Steve laughs. Jay our pilot explains the currents in the air, and I still keep my foot braced and my hand on the chair next to me for safety feelings. The adrenilin running through my body must have been at its peak, because I was scared but I was smiling with excitement.  Worked that one out. Just truly amazing and other words I can't even think about . WOW.

And then the Twelve Apostles :))))

We never imagined how beautiful the Twelve Apostles were. Words can not describe the feelings we had. I was now calm, happy, excited and feeling so small and insignificant when viewing the majesty of this coastline.

WOW WOW WOW OMGoodness !!!

Heads in the clouds

I had to take the photo of the clouds. It felt like we were walking among them. Soft, fluffy and very white. If this is what you can see from heaven, everyone will be happy to know.

Caves and sheer cliffs.

OOPs - hit my head on the roof.

Sometimes the gusts made the plane jump, in turn so did we. Laughing when my head hit the roof. Even with the seat belts on! I was safe and Jay checked on us that we were okay.

Approaching the Twelve Apostles.

About to land back at Marengo.

Amazing. Has 45 minutes passed already! We were having so much fun.

Dancing amongst the clouds

The adrenilin running through us has made us calmer than we could have possibly ever known.

Our plane

After the plane ride what more could excitre us?  Koalas!!!! A colony of Koalas were living in the trees above the road to Cape Otway. Eating there way through many many trees. You could see where they had been, A great concern though as the trees that they had eaten the leaves from looked like they all have died,

Koals colony on the road to Cape Otway

Give me that leafNOW!!! 

The walk to Port

The thirty minute walk seemed tro take ages. The trail was sigposted at the Great Ocean Road walk but we couldnt fint he one for Cape

The above pic shows the view to ....

Our journey took us throughOtway National Park to where we saw amazing rock formations on the shoreline. The beach was clean and oure with much seaweed. We spoke to a local man who was about to go fishing and he told stories of how he thought he had a great catch only to find he had caught a massive piece of kelp!

Blanket Bay Camping area

Rock formations at

The rock formations were volcanic and sedementary, hard basalt pebbles that had been carried through an ancient river and thn ecame the rock you can see here

Again I say WOW

Lord Steve looks a little worried huh? LOL

Got his Lordship to stand near a great mound of rock, saw some waves coming in and let him know. He said hurry up and take the pic before I get wet and freeze woman!!

Our little dinosaur - Otto

ALong the trip so far, I have see 'Fairy Houses' at Triplet Falls, Hidden Caves near cliff faces of the shoreline and now the remnants of 'Otto" - only kidding. It certainly looked great enough to write about so I hae made him up to be my little dinosaur friend......maybe a friend of the fairies that live in Cpe Otway National Park :))

The adrenilin has abated nbow and this traveller is very weary. So again Goodnight and sweet dream to all

Dee