Wollongong

We visited Wollongong after nineteen years and caught up with some great friends, and we found some had moved on to new locations, too. It never ceases to amaze me how places change over the years. New roads, and shopping centres have mushroomed during our absence and renovations to buildings and suburbs change the landscape so much that often we felt confused as to where we were.

We were thrilled to get the opportunity to catch up with a delightful couple who have been extremely helpful for research on my third novel in which my main protagonist is a double amputee. Sid and Margo made Frank and I most welcome in their home. I can't wait until I finish this novel. I'm not sharing too much about it at this stage because I've just finished my second novel, Family Secrets (working title) and it is off to the editor later this week.

We did a successful book signing of African Hearts at CLC Bookworld:

CLC Bookworld

Thanks to Brian and all the customers for making me feel so welcome and making the day a great success!

Tathra to Berry

God knows what we need more than we do. For Easter he took us to Tathra for a much needed rest after our hectic travelling schedule. The caravan park allocated us a site at the base of a huge hill where we had no phone or internet coverage and we were able to meet lots of people who were also camping and enjoying time out. Tathra is a great fishing place. I'm not a good sailor so we fished from the shore and caught two small bream which we threw back so they could experience more of life. Those fishermen and women who went out in boats caught many good sized fish.

My husband's family roots are embedded at Cathcart west of Merimbula where the family farm is a great place to visit and reflect on family and times that have passed. The last surviving brothers of the original parents are deciding what should be done with the farm. There are many interesting pieces of machinery and unfortunately the house is now falling into disrepair. A few head of cattle are run on the property but these will be sold soon as one of the brother's estate is finalised. I'm glad I don't have to make the decision on the future of the farm.

A farm in Cathcart.

After Tathra we turned north to Bodalla State Forest and we explored the track through the bush to Lake Mummaga. This camping area was a restful place where we were able to have a camp fire. We invited all the other campers to share the warmth and chew the fat.

A welcome rest stop from the endless white line.

We then headed for the delightful historical town of Berry where Frank and I had a romantic walk amongst the historic buildings. It's a place full of history and art. Wonderful atmosphere. I'm very much a live in the here and now type of person and all that old stuff belongs back then, but Berry had a special something that caught my imagination, so looks like we'll be heading back. We didn't take any photos here because we want to return here again, hopefully next summer on our way to Tasmania.

Next stop - Wollongong!!