Derby Storm Chasing

Cathy had to rush off to the hospital, so David headed down to the Derby Wharf to capture some more thunderstorm activity.

Unfortunately the storms were off in the distance. However, I did manage to get the stars, clouds lit by lightning and the carpark illuminated by a passing car - all in one shot!!

Graeme's Exhibition

Unfortunately we cannot be in Apollo Bay to see Graeme's original paintings on display. We were delighted to receive this photo from Mary.

Looking out our backdoor!!

And some video highlights -

Boxing Day

Cathy used her shopaholic remedy once again this year – she goes to Derby instead and earns money instead of spending it on “bargains” in the Boxing Day sales. We splurged our frequent flyer points on upgrading to Business Class on the flight to Broome – a delightful bonus especially with the birds-eye view of Uluru (Ayers Rock) from 38,000 feet.

We settled into our homely paediatric house in Derby then had an afternoon snooze before dinner with John Boulton and Angela Fisher. We are humbled by the generosity and hospitality of our Derby friends who make this town our home away from home.

Christmas Day 2010

Cathy greeted her parents at midnight after Carols at St Alfred’s, whilst David slept - hoping that Santa would think he’d been a good boy! We were delighted to open a big present from Tom and Emily with outdoor settings but most of the giggles came from our Irish box of goodies from Serena. Cathy had to go for a run later in the day to run off her Christmas lunch so she wore her new running shorts!!

Christmas 2010

Christmas this year was a relaxing collection of BBQs at our house. Christmas Eve saw the Joneses and Dawsons singing carols to the accompaniment of Mary on the piano accordion. Joel thought the circular lawn was a running track so he delighted in running around in circles and falling down onto its cushioned landing. Brianna made a gorgeous Santa’s helper. The best present was the original oil painting dad had painted for the Dawsons. We missed Cathy’s brothers who have all fled interstate or overseas to avoid these gatherings!!! Hope you enjoy the photos boys!

The troopy gets a makeover for Christmas – early December

Since we attached the toy box (trailer) to the Troopy, it has desired a little more "Oompf". Avoiding the floods up the Newell, David headed off early to drive to Toowoomba, where he’d heard the best mechanics were located to entrust our Troopy to. Cathy helped in the drive from Newcastle to Brisbane to play with Charlotte and Holly. The plan was to fit a turbo. Cathy was surprised when David returned from his 4600km journey to show her the Troopy makeover.

Thanksgiving 2010

Brianna Dawson lead the way singing at her school Thanksgiving Service. Aunty Cathy was there to capture the event. You can hear Joel yelling encouragement from the back row.

HINT: If you click on the YouTube logo, you can watch the video in a larger window