Muddy Puddle Day

There are just days which should be avoided.  The type you want to jump back into bed, pull the covers up over your head and let the day slide by without being part of it.  Today was one of those days!  Not that I had a choice of jumping back into bed but if I could I would have!  It wasn't all bad it just started that way.  Who gets upset when an unknown person dumps their rubbish in your wheelie bin?  No-one of course, but me.  I had put the bin on the verge yesterday afternoon ready for the early morning pick up.  This morning there are prunings sticking out from all directions from a plant I don't own.  I pretended to be a detective and followed the fallen leaves around the bin.  The trail ran cold half way across the neighbour's verge.  Ha-ha was it the neighbour.  Goodness me, I am going crazy.  The bin man comes and empties my bin and I hide it once again behind the automatic roller door.  Out of sight, out of mind.  The day continued.  I had asked for another weeks respite in October to allow me to finish stage 3 of the Cape to Cape walk in the south west.  It turns out there is a central carer's retreat during the same week and the respite centres I have contacted are full.  I feel like I am sitting in a muddy puddle.  Oh well, I mutter to myself, I'll go next year.  I am feeling a nasty shade of blue.  There is no parking available this afternoon for Mel's appointment at the clinic.  I have my eyes peeled and there hiding behind a gum tree is a single vacant car space.  The other thousand car spaces at the hospital are all taken and every footpath and verge are speckled with badly parked cars.  Finally God is smiling upon me.  My day improves even further when a middle aged Italian woman asks me to read the note on the door of  the doctor surgery.  I read (the doctor had moved) I rang the number on the note for her and directed her in the right direction.  I am still wondering if she understood enough to arrive there successfully!

Squirreling Money

The holidays are over, the days shorter and the sun not so warm.  We wait for the winter to come and go before the warmth and promise of summer reappears.

It's the time of hibernation, not for us but for our finances.  As a squirrel stores nuts we likewise begin to put away surplus dollars, storing them up for promises to come.  This is the bit when I tell Merv and myself how grateful I am that we own our house, our new car and have paid off loans and credit cards.   It's also the time I feel for people who struggle to pay their loans or rent.  It wasn't always so easy for us.  As young marrieds Merv was our only breadwinner and brought home an unskilled labourer's wage.  Both children had chronic asthma and we spent much of our money on medication, doctor's bills and keeping the house warm.  It was years after our family and friends had purchased microwaves that we could finally afford one! I went to work part time when Mel was eight.  I worked full time after she left school by working multiple jobs.  I also spent time volunteering.   We had a mortgage which we regularly increased, car loans and credit card bills.  As we paid off one credit card we somehow applied for another.  We were able to pay our bills and loans monthly without much worry but I wondered how we would manage when Merv was no longer able to work.  In 2010 we found out in a hurry!  Fortunately Merv had been in the same job for thirty years, which is almost unheard of these days.  His sick leave lasted for two years while his superannuation and disability insurance paid off the home mortgage and most of the bathroom renovation.  When I retired from work last year my super paid off the credit card, my holiday last year to Mauritius and South Africa and I finished with buying my fabulous new Hyundai only a month ago.  Now it's time to squirrel away money for future plans.   We are already planning a family holiday in Albany, south west of Perth in March next year.  It's ten months away and plans are beginning to form in my mind, yes time for careful budget planning!

Speech App

Some time last year the Speech Pathologist sent me a twenty two page Word Document.  My job was to fill in the blanks.  Like so many other things in life I put it aside and admittedly I had completely forgotten its importance.  A little niggle in my mind kept nudging me last week before meeting with the Speech Pathologist  at Neurosciences for the first time this year.  The dreaded Word document was yet to be completed!  With Anzac Day weekend presenting a time to enjoy a little leisure Merv and I went through each question and filled in the answers.  The gist of it being to make the speech app user friendly for Merv.  We added the quirky questions Merv would ask and deleted things which he wouldn't.  We added his favourite 60 and 70's music groups, his favourite TV programs and things he likes to do.  Including all those things he doesn't like to do!  Apple pie and cream has already been entered on the sub page of  places he likes to visit.  Family and friends were entered into the 'people page' and the list continues. Twenty two pages later I emailed it back to the office.  The best part of using the app is knowing Merv and I helped put it together.  Merv is having lessons with the Speech Pathologist each Tuesday afternoon until July.  It is essential he is comfortable and knowledgeable in using his very own app!

Big Calorie Diet

About a month ago I eyed Merv's enlarging stomach and decided he was in need of a make over!  A diet to widdle the tummy away while satisfying his sweet tooth!  We started as one should with a weigh in at 91.6kg.  Merv used to brag he was a thoroughbred as he ate what he liked and rarely went over 70kg.  While he was working he was always 66kgs, weighing less than me at times!  Since his retirement in 2010 his sweet tooth hasn't changed only his weight! In the last few years I have made an effort to reduce his portion size due to his now limited daily activity.

The diet began with fewer chocolate biscuits and cake, replaced with bananas and stewed apple with custard.  Merv helped slice the Granny Smith apples after I peeled them and I remind him daily of his cooking expertise!  Today I made a cake.  I couldn't help myself, I haven't made a cake for awhile and I was going through withdrawal.  I had fresh plums in the fridge, flour and sugar in the pantry.  Yes, everything I need for my favourite, Upside-down Plum Cake.  I was away, creaming the butter and sugar, beating the eggs, folding in the flour, making the glaze for the plums to shine.  My withdrawal symptoms now replaced with happy endorphins!  I cut a slice of cake for Merv.  Just a tinny bit smaller than usual, sliced up a banana and added some low fat ice cream.  A perfect afternoon tea delight!

Playing the Game

With only five minutes to go we thought we were home and hosed!  Just when it mattered the opposition turned around kicked a few more goals and won by three points!!  I was more disappointed than Merv.  I was so excited about our expected AFL (football) win I had dug around in the drawers to retrieve Merv's  Eagles scarf and beanie.  Every goal from our beloved team brought cheers and clapping from both of us, at least until the tide turned and we were left devastated. '"Oh well," I said.  To be truthful I couldn't say that for a few hours afterwards!  There is two sides to every story.  Tonight there were many happy people who barrack for the opposing team celebrating!  Hopefully next week it will be us!

ANZAC Day

Our ANZAC book

In Australia there are only two days of the years where the shops close.  The first being Good Friday and the second being ANZAC day.  Today is ANZAC (Australian New Zealand Army Corps) day.  It just happens this year these two important days are one week apart.  I remember as a child learning about ANZAC day.  It was a time when veterans from world war 1 were getting older, when Vietnam veterans returned without fanfare.  Though the ANZAC story was taught at school there wasn't the same respect for it as there is now.  ANZAC day marks the anniversary of the first campaign that led to major casualties for Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War at Gallipoli on April 25th 1915.   In 1917, the word ANZAC meant someone who fought at Gallipoli and later it came to mean any Australian or New Zealander who fought or served in the First World War. During the Second World War, ANZAC Day became a day on which the lives of all Australians lost in war time were remembered. The spirit of ANZAC recognises the qualities of courage, mateship and sacrifice which were demonstrated at the Gallipoli landing.
Each year every Australian capital and many local towns hold their own ANZAC service, many of them being dawn services. Next year the 100th anniversary will be held and preparations are already being made.
It wasn't so long ago Merv and I would wake at 3:30am each ANZAC day and drive to Kings Park Dawn Service to remember the men and women who fought for our freedom.  Today there was 40,000 people attending.  As the sun rises you can hear a pin drop before the bugle is played and the ceremony of remembrance begins.  Merv and I would have breakfast at the Dome and take our chairs to St Georges Terrace where we would watch our returned servicemen and women partake in the annual parade.  Merv's Grandfather, Joseph Bell was a soldier in the 11th Battalion at Gallipoli.  He wasn't there in April 1915, he arrived later in the year.  Merv has his war medals, photos and numerous books of war service.  Joseph's two brothers also served alongside him.  Today we watched the Dawn service and the parade on TV.  We looked at the ANZAC book which we bought several years ago from the Perth Museum.  It depicts the lives of the ANZACs during the time of fighting and the winter ahead of them.  Thank goodness they fought for our freedom.  We are forever grateful.

Celebrations Continue

It's Thursday and Mel and I are off buying gym stuff; joggers, sports tops and those fabulous sports bras.  Mel and I have been discussing the gym for a few months now, but since she added 2.2kgs enjoying Easter eggs and hot cross buns it's time to get serious.  Among the hordes of holidaying school children we have decked her out and she is ready to go.   Mel is very specific about the gym she is joining next week.  We are choosing to begin with a monthly membership to see how she goes.  We have agreed she will attend at least 3 times a week, hopefully more with the extra classes she can join.  Pilates is something I would like her to do.  In the end it is up to her.  I will encourage her all the way.


Big Sister Birthday Celebration

By 2pm this afternoon we were both flagging and we had arranged to visit big sister to celebrate her 59th birthday.  Big sister had already enjoyed a wonderful day with friends, colleagues and presents.  Mel presented her with a lovely bunch of native blooms and I gave her a quaint Blue Wren mug and matching card which I had bought recently from a little shop in Margaret River.  Big sister is a joy to us all.  I know when I am away she is keeping an eye on Mel, visiting her, inviting her to lunch and giving her a catch up call.  Big sister also visited Merv each week at his respite centre.  She is my second emergency contact after Dustin.  Big sister is Mum's advocate and primary carer outside of the Lodge she resides.  On top of all of that she excels at her job and always has time for her children, grandchildren, family members and friends.  Happy Birthday big sister!

Monga Lake Adventure

Million dollar views from our lunch seat

The weather is so much cooler and it's a shame to stay inside while a cooling breeze swirls with the soft warmth of the sun.   I pack a picnic lunch, take the wheels of the wheelchair and load everything in the boot.  We are off to Lake Monga, one of the many beautiful lakes which surround Perth.  It is always a joy to visit.  There are always families of black swans, ducks and an assortment of other wildlife.  A busy road runs past and even the freeway on another side but the joy of the lake surpasses all of this.   We find the car park which the gardeners have adopted.  Their tractors and machinery take up part of the parking space.  The gardeners themselves are sitting around a picnic table enjoying their lunch.  I pull out the wheelchair, push on its wheels, footplates and throw on the cushion before putting Merv in the chair.  We smile at the gardeners as we follow the footpath.  It is a working day and only a few people pass us.  We are soon half way around the lake and we look for a place to set up our lunch.  There is a pagoda at the end of a small jetty and we discover a seat in its corner.  We balance our plates on our laps and I finish our half made sandwichs.  It is a beautiful million dollar view as we munch away.  Others come and share our space.  An elderly man who is mesmerised by the view over the lake.  He is followed by a Mum and her two small children.  

Black Swans delight visitors

They have a barrage of questions and delight in looking at the swans.  We continue our walk and the gardeners have finished their lunch and are back at work.   They are testing sprinklers close by and we stop in our tracks to prevent getting soaked.  A young Chinese man isn't so lucky with the sudden splurge of water and tells us so.  We are soon chatting and he tells us he has an engineering degree from UWA (University of WA) but he has been unable to secure a position.  He has a part time job in retail but he is disillusioned with his predicament.  He does not know whether to try his luck in the Eastern States or even return to China.  He said he has thought about changing his direction and try nursing.  We don't talk long enough for me to ascertain where his passion lies.  I wish him the best as we turn off the path and head back to our car park.  Merv and I say a prayer for him.  We can only imagine how difficult life is for him and the decisions he needs to make.


Merv enjoying his adventure

Back to the Drawing Board

Easter is over, it's back to the real world.  Merv's appointment card has been on the fridge door for the last three months, until this morning.  It was all 'hands on deck' early this morning; dismantling the wheelchair, packing snacks, water bottles and finally we are on our way.  We head off to Mt Claremont and Merv completes his quarterly appointment with his specialist before seeing the speech pathologist.  Merv is learning to use the speech app, Proloqu2go.  Today he was given a stylus to act as his finger when tapping. It worked wondrously well. Last time he struggled with his finger tapping.  It was heartening to witness Merv not only enjoying the session but keen to participate and ask questions.  There will come a time when the iPad will be Merv's principle method of communication.

Too Much Sun

Walking the Cape to Cape was an amazing adventure but I figure I have had too much sun.  I have sunburn of the brain.  At each new year we makes new plans and consider workable strategies. Well, at least we pretend! Here it is approaching the end of April and I begin to let my imagination run wild.  Yesterday these thoughts were yet to be birthed but here they are today conjuring up even more; even crazier ideas! Yes crazy ideas of how:

•  I can complete stage 3 of the Cape to Cape walk this October
•  Complete the  whole 13 day Wainwright Walk in England in 2015
•  Pay and complete a barrage of maintenance issues at home

Far too much brain energy for one day.  I let my eyes close and allow my thoughts to drift to green meadows and painted wispy white clouds. 
Hmm at least all I did was conjure up possibilities.  I will wait until tomorrow and then decide if and what I will act upon!

Easter Sunday

I've been turning off the alarm

Homemade Apple Pie Celebration

in the morning and ducking back under the covers again, catching up on much needed sleep.  Today I fought the urge. I yawned and stretched while completing my daily thirty minute treadmill routine.  My mind was a jumble of things to do  and complete before picking up Mel and later my Mum. It's Easter Sunday some of us have been or will be going to a church service. Between  small offerings of choccy eggs, hot cross buns and fresh fruit we enjoy coffee  before a little magic from Jamie Oliver turns my two large chickens into a roasted lemon and herb culinary delight.  Dustin, my sister and her friend join us as we tuck into our lunch, chat and share together.  As I serve up the lunch my sister confides some unexpected personal news with me.  Mel wonders why she missed out on asparagus and I hunt for roast potatoes for my plate.  My plate is rather empty, much like my brain after the news!  In hindsight it is a good thing the apple pie is not within reach as it may have ended being served next to the chicken with a dollop of gravy plopped on top!  My head begins to function once more and our meal is enjoyed by all.  Though Mel does complain about her lack of asparagus and I make interesting sign language that I missed out also! The meal is complete as we enjoy my sister's homemade apple pie with dollops of custard. Family chatter and the viewing of holiday photos follow. All too soon the day moves on and it's time for my Mum to go home. It's been a lovely celebration of Easter.

Sharing Bread Together

Decadent Chocolate Mousse delight

Merv is finally home from respite.  It has been a time to resettle.  The first morning back we dealt with wet sheets plus the shock of choking at breakfast.  Thank goodness we have had a few days to get back to normal.  The Easter weekend is already here and lunch for five was  booked before our respite had begun.   I ran around chauffeuring Merv's sister after I had picked up Mel and her friend Harriet.  Vicki is dressed up and looks lovely. I had prepared some of the lunch beforehand and realised I had forgotten the white sauce for the salmon.  A quick stop to the shop for a couple of handy packets and we're back on track. I hired a ramp to push Vicki in  her wheelchair over our difficult front step.  I breath a sigh of relief as it works well.  I transfer Vicki from her wheelchair to Merv's lift chair while I finish cooking, baking, vitamising (for Vicki) and plating up.  Mel and Harriet help me serve.  The marinated salmon is delicious.  Cooked to perfection, moist and tasty.  It is complimented with roasted Royal Blue potatoes and an assortment of fresh vegetables.  We toast to good health with sparkling red grape juice and finish our meal with a decadent Margaret River Chocolate Factory mousse.  After lunch we watch a collection of my respite photos which I have added to a flash-drive.  I take Vicki back to her place of residence.  I hug her and thank her for joining us today.  I know very few family members spend time with her.  I want her to know she is loved.


Merv, Mel, Harriet and Vicki enjoying our lunch

What Was I Thinking?

Mel at 'Hippo's Yawn'

What was I thinking?  Here we are again, it's 7:30am and Mel and I are boarding another coach; this time at East Perth Terminal.  Today we are headed east towards Hyden.  It's a four hour drive, 394kms total inland, with a pit stop in the small town of Quairading.  Morning tea is held on the back veranda of the information centre; a small wooden hut. A cup of lukewarm coffee and a jam tart is on offer.  Thank goodness we brought some fresh fruit and snacks! There are plenty of dry brown paddocks to see filled with flocks of sheep. We arrive at Wave Rock just after noon.  Tim our bus driver drops us off at 'Hippo's Yawn' a cave which resembles a yawning hippo.  We are given two hours free time before we leave.  We take the proverbial photos before following the 1.4km unsealed walk to Wave Rock.
The weather is warm and we are armed with sunhats and sunscreen.  As we round the rear of the rock the 'wave' hits us.  The sight of it is staggering.  All the photos in the brochures do not prepare you for this amazing view.  


Wave Rock

We just stood and breathed it in before walking the length of it.  I felt as if I had just walked out on a movie set, it seems so unreal to have this wave rock looking like it could thunder and break into surf but standing  frozen in time in the middle of the outback!   The 'wave' has been created by continuous water erosion over thousands of years.  It is reported there are other 'wave' rocks in the area; none of which we saw.  Mel and I enjoy a simple lunch and a hot barista made coffee.  We check out the souvenirs before returning to the rock to sketch and relax.  We meet a couple from Austria who ask is it always this hot at this time of year.  I agree it is!  On our return journey we visit Corrigin's unique dog cemetery.  It is an opportunity to stretch our legs and read a few tombstones before we take the long journey back to  East Perth.  We arrive at 7pm. 


Corrigin Dog Cemetery



Running Out of Time

I had hoped to enjoy a couple of restful days before picking up Merv from respite in a few days, but life has other plans for me! I had planned on a little more 'me time', but it was nowhere to be found. There are doctors appointments for Mel and me. It's time for our flu needles, there is Mel's weekly shopping to complete and among my plans I had a lunch booked with a local group of carer's. My new car (Ellie) is booked for her first service at 1,000kms. Ellie has clocked up 1,200kms in only a few weeks!  The next day isn't much better with car washing, my shopping, housework, visiting, exercise walking with Mel and later a healthy meal to cook.   Surely a good chick flick, a glass of SSB and some decadent choccy would be a healthier alternative! Tomorrow is another day.

The Pinnacles

Lunch at the Wildflower Shop

We bundled back on the coach as the sky darkened and rain threatened.  Just a few drops and an hour later of driving with nothing much to keep our attention we arrived at Rhonda's Wildflower Shop.  Rhonda grows wildflowers which are picked, dried and sent all over the world.  She gave us an introduction to how she operates her business with some regular pickers and others who are backpackers.  It was very colourful but rather dusty in her dining area.  Chris bought out the lunches from the big eskies and we each had a foam dish containing salad, chicken and cheese.  A roll, a drink and a small pasta salad were also offered.  It was fresh and filling as we watched a video of Rhonda's wildflowers and then Mel and I poked around her little shop buying a few wildflower cards and magnets.  Back on the coach and the sky had cleared as we headed off to the Pinnacles. 


The Pinnacle are a variety of sizes

The Pinnacles is a desert moonscape in the Nambung National Park 250kms north of Perth.  Some believe the pinnacles are made from seashells over millions of years while others say they are petrified trees.  Each pinnacle rises from the yellow coloured sand (sand which surrounds the Pinnacles is beach white) looking like rocks of limestone.  We have heard many stories of the Pinnacles and I was pleased to be here.  Mel remembered she had visited here many years ago with Dustin and one of his mates.  We stayed with our small group taking photos and following the track which wound around the mysterious pillars.  Half way around there is a large lookout overlooking the area.  It is an amazing experience.  It is unlike anything else I have seen.  It took just over 30 minutes for our walk as we discussed the roots protruding from the pillars.  Surely,  I thought; they are petrified trees?  Too easy to make a rash statement, but I enjoyed being a scientist for a few minutes.  Back on the coach and it's a three hour drive back to Perth.  It's been a long day, but a good one.


The Pinnacles from the viewing platform

New Norcia

The College previously for boarding students

I leave Dunsborough at 11:30am and arrive at Mel's unit at 2:30pm.  I haven't stopped but I've nibbled and snacked on the way!  Mel stays the night with me because the next day is a very early start.  Some weeks ago we booked a day tour for New Norcia and the Pinnacles.  We're on our way and we're parked and waiting at the Barrack Street Jetty in the city by 7:30am.  The coach is brand new and we are in the company of a small group of seven. We are the only locals. Chris, our driver is a minefield of local information and history.  Most of the information I already know but there are small gems which I don't.  It's going to be a long day. New Norcia is a two hour drive, 132kms north of Perth.  There is little to keep our attention on the way, besides rolling parched hills and barren wheat fields.  A succession of over-width trailers ferrying mining and farming machines have us pulling off the road onto the verge of the road until they pass.  Some of them have police escorts.  Many years ago a friend stayed at New Norcia for some respite from her large busy family.  She said it had been a time of peace to her soul.  I am here to see what she had seen.   


One of the Chapels

New Norcia began as a mission in 1846 founded by two Spanish monks.  In 1901 New Norcia became a monastic town with the emphasis shifting towards educational and the pastoral needs of the local indigenous population.  Education ceased in 1991 but today schools visit the chapel due to the amazing acoustics.  Many schools have recorded their own CDs.  The school children and staff board at New Norcia bringing much needed funds to the monastery.  Monks and a small group of nuns continue to live here.


The original Abbey Church

The town is privately owned and sprawls in every direction.  There is an old hotel, the school, the chapel, the monastery itself.  New Norcia is also well known for its scrumptious bakery.   Morning tea includes their delicious hot cross buns.  Mel and I buy fruit bread and we savour every delicious bite of fruit and nuts!

 Paula takes us on a tour of the town including the chapel, sharing its amazing history of how it was built from local materials and how it was preserved with a  plaster type coating and raised graffiti.   We are welcomed into the abbey before touring the art gallery and museum.  It is a truly amazing historical place, a place most unusual in our hot arid wheat belt.
 We are only there for an hour or so and I do not find the spiritual peace my friend enjoyed.  I am sure a longer period of time and reflection would be the answer.   I will never know.  I have seen,  enjoyed and learnt on our short time here.   I take photos of the buildings, of Mel and before long we are on our way to our next destination.


 

Forgotten Friend

The rain set in as the hiking group headed back to Perth on the bus.  I had my own car and spent some time pottering around the local shops, treating myself to a scrumptious breakfast at the local Italian restaurant and having some 'me time.'  I headed off to Dunsborough to visit my friend Helen and popping into the decadent Margaret River Chocolate Factory for necessary supplies.

One of many pre-loved tops bought for Mel

There was only one problem.  Helen had forgotten I was coming today and accepted an invitation from her daughter to see the Wildcats in their first of three grand final play offs.   I was in her hometown of Dunsborough, she was in my home town of Perth!  Helen muttered under her breath and suggested I let myself in with the hidden key. I did just that after buying a cooked chicken and salad for my dinner.  Helen was expected home after midnight and I made myself comfortable.  I was tired but her house was in need of some help.  My house often looks the same!  The plan I have for cleaning my own house I put into action.  I tidied up, putting away clothes and knick-knacks. I shook all the mats, and dusted. I vacuumed throughout and cleaned the kitchen.  My last endeavour was to rid the accumulating dust from the many stairs leading to the bedrooms.  I spied the dust buster, fabulous I thought until I realised it didn't work.  I plugged it in, recharged it but still it was useless.   I was beaten.  I took a dustpan, a wet cloth and a plastic bag and attacked one step at a time.  After an hour on my knees the stairs looked fabulous.  Helen arrived home well after midnight with news of the Wildcat's win.  We toasted with white wine, cheese and nibbles before hitting the sack and sleeping in the next day.   We spent the following day together gathering bargains at Busselton's second hand shops.   I had hoped to go exploring but Helen enjoys the rummaging and spoils of once loved clothing.  We had a great day and I bought numerous tops for Mel.  Helen never once mentioned the dust free stairs or her clean house.  I asked if she had her eyes checked recently. She replied she had and she only wore her new glasses in her bedroom!  The only room I didn't clean!  I laughed.  I had expected her to berate me for my cleaning efforts.  I went home knowing I had helped out and she was none the wiser!

Day 3 Cape to Cape



Grass Trees in the background

There is a promise of rain in the air but it holds off during our half day walk today.   Our walk begins much further south in shady Karri forest, beginning at Contos camp ground and finishing 6.5kms later at Hooley/Road/Davis Road intersection.  Bill said the walk is a: 'stroll in the park.' and I ask myself if I should leave my walking poles in the bus or take them with me.  I decide to take them and I was glad I did as the first km was downhill and rocky but soon lead into a wide shady forest track.  Another hiking group also shared the track with us and we passed them as they stopped for a break and likewise they later passed us.  Once again our group soon separated into two groups, I started in the first group and later joined the second group.  It was an easy walk which led to much sharing and exchanging of information, as what happens when a group of individuals begin to bond together.  The track began with a scene of grass trees and later the Karri forest provided privacy and much needed shade.  Our hike ended as we spotted the bus in the distant and we celebrated our final hike with a platter lunch at a local family owned winery.  Bill's wife, Velma had prepared platters of cheese, meat, salads, olives and crusty breads to share.  


At the end of the track

Bill bought a range of wines and we ate our celebration meal in a room in the comfort of the winery's reception building.  Bill later offered to take us to Yahava in Margaret River for the very best coffee.  Myself and one other hiker took up his offer!  I later shopped for a quick meal in the apartment and a much deserved rest. 

Celebrating with a platter lunch

Day 2 Cape to Cape

The beautiful Willyabrup Cliffs

This morning I was awake before the alarm.  I staggered down the stairs to the kitchen below.  Ouch!  the top of my legs ached with every step! Yes, all those steps we climbed yesterday!  I was pleased my beach training prevented any pain in my calves.  The day is just as warm as yesterday with whiffs of cooling breezes on the beach and cliff tops. The bus arrived at Moses Rock car park where we had finished yesterday.  We walked on the cliff top past Moses Rock, a well known abseiling site.  For most of the day we could see our destination, Grace Town in the distance.  The track was easier today winding through the low vegetation on the cliffs,


The rocky cliff face we slid down!

down more steps across more beaches and up more steps!  The first half of the day was easy and we stopped for lunch at an alcove where the ocean thundered around pounding the rocks along the small beach.  We stopped and chose a rock to perch our weary bodies, to eat our salad rolls and spend a little time to chill and relax.  After lunch we are back up the large sand dune ahead and the nice easy path we were used to has turned to into an uneven rocky track for several kilometres to come.  The rocks become harder to negotiate and soon I am following others and copying where they place their feet.  Suddenly we are unable to locate the Cape to Cape sign until someone notices it wedged between the rocks on the rumbling face of the cliff.  "Oh goodness me," I mutter under my breath.  My walking poles are stuck under my arm and I sit on my butt and slide down to the ledge, half way down the rocky cliff face.  Bill turns and asks how I am going, there is nothing to say but I hope I am doing well!  It is relief to reach the rocky path and head away from the cliff face.  The rocks continue until suddenly we turn the corner and Grace Town is right there in front of us.  We scramble down the last of the rocks to the road and walk around to the car park where our bus and the faster walkers have assembled.  We have only walked 16kms over five hours today.  My water bladder still contains over 500ml.   We return to our apartments, shower and put on warm clothes for the sunset nibbles and wine at Redgate beach.   We arrive before sunset and enjoy wine and nibbles while the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.  It's been a great day.



Sunset over the Indian Ocean

Day 1 Cape to Cape

Beginning our journey Day 1

Bill, our tour guide and bus driver drove us to Yallinyup to begin our journey.
Some of the girls were having problems with their water bladders and sorting out the problems before hitting the track.  Our journey had a promising start on a 4WD track, the sand compacted and easy to walk on.  Less than thirty minutes later we stood before a monstrous hill of rocks with the little Cape to Cape sign leading the way.  The girls dubbed it, 'Heart Attack Hill' as we scaled over it cautiously ensuring our footing and sighing with relief as we reached the top. Bill is a wizard of local information and stopped at the look out of Castle Rock to not only to allow us to peer with delight at the splendour but provide local history also.  Today our 18km hike took us over seven hours to complete.  The limestone outcrops, loose rocks and uneven terrain slowed our pace. We scrambled over rocks, carefully descended multiple pine log steps, scaled hundred of steps towards the cliffs and trudged through kilometres of soft white sand of numerous beaches.  No sooner had we mastered the pine logs and walked along the amazing beaches but we were once again scaling steps once again to the tops of the cliffs.  The weather was a warm 27℃, too hot for a long walk.  My water bladder was bone dry when I returned to the apartment later.


Views from one of the many Cliff tops

A group of girls and one bloke talking about their (water) bladders added a little fun to the day.  It was a day to help each other when necessary and begin the bonds of friendship.  Many of us took photos from the cliff tops overlooking the pristine beaches and frolicking surf below.  We were awed at the continuous change in vegetation on both the cliff tops and cliff surfaces. We saw red flowering gum trees, beautiful orange banksias in flower along the track.  Throughout the day the coolness of the breeze from the ocean revitalised us and kept us moving forward.  Lunch was an ordinary affair with most of us eating our warm salad rolls and relaxing in the shade.  Bill pointed out the large shadow shapes in the ocean explaining the shadows are actually the running of our local salmon.  Unlike Atlantic and Tasmanian Salmon they lack taste and are only caught for cat food.  Before our day finished we passed a mass of small rocks sitting idly in the shallows.  We sat on the rocks, some of us paddling our feet in the freshness of the ocean.  It was a mystical moment.


Our Mystical Memory in the shallows




Get Ready, Go!

The thought niggles in my mind, 'Why am I doing this?'  I know myself well enough. I love not only the challenge but I also enjoy completing the challenge.  I have arrived at my accommodation in Margaret River, the home of amazing wineries, surfing and gourmet foods.  For us, the hikers, it is our retreat after a long day of hiking the Cape to Cape trail. The Cape to Cape walking track in the south west of WA is one of the top 10 walks in Australia. Last April I completed stage 1.  It was my first major hike with only a few challenging moments. This year I purchased walking poles, which I found during my training helpful in keeping me upright and improving my pace.  I have smeared the sun cream on my fair skin, pressed my sunhat down firmly over my brow. My two litre bladder is filled with chilled water and sits snugly in my backpack. Bill is our tour guide and the ten hikers in our group have their own challenge to meet.  I am ready to set off on the track which awaits us.




Cape to Cape Markers on the track

A Visit Back in Time

As the sun rose and gave the promise of a warm autumn day my friend Jean and I were enjoying an early morning walk.  We witnessed an amazing sunrise, looking to the east.  There are a few places in WA where you can witness a sunrise.  Being on the west coast we are known for our amazing sunsets.
Our carer's retreats are always busy and filled with fun activities. 

Sunrise on the West Coast in Mandurah WA

Today we headed off to Edenvale, a historical collection of buildings in Pinjarra. We begun with light fluffy scones with jam and cream plus tea and coffee for all.  The historic setting lent itself to the variety and originality of the arts and crafts store. We were intrigued with the skill of the quilters and their openness in working their craft before us. Lunch was celebrated at a tiny cafe nestled along the local river bank. Our evening was complete with a dinner at a local restaurant followed by more games before we finally retired for the night knowing our time togetherness brings refreshment of mind, body and soul.

Carer's Retreat

It wasn't difficult to decide to attend the carer's retreat a day late. Simply I needed a little time to myself and a few more hours to train.  Instead of going straight to the retreat in Mandurah the following day, I arranged to meet little sister as she lives close to Mandurah. We settled on a restaurant and I met her there. Nothing unusual about that except the carer's had also settled in at the same restaurant and cheered us as we entered!  We laughed, greeted them and we went outside with a view of an eclectic collection of boats. We enjoyed a delicious meal while catching up on news before I joined  the carer's back at their accommodation. The night ahead was filled with chatting, catching up and group games which had us shrieking in delight!

Carer's Retreat, Jean and I

On My Way

The car is packed, my walking poles checked.  I am on my way. My first stop is another couple of hours walking along the beach, trudging through the soft sand!  Cape to Cape stage 2 is still days away but I don’t want to be caught huffing and puffing only thinking of the end and the risk of failure.  Like last year’s walk I want to enjoy every moment.  I don’t have to look at last year’s photos to see the beauty of the coast, the frothing waves and the limestone paths which embrace the cliffs.  Hopefully I will reap the benefits of my recent training.

I am off to enjoy a few days with a group of carer’s who also care for loved ones with Huntington’s disease.  It is a time to relax, enjoy and bond together.  A time to enjoy awaits me.

Merv Respite Ready

The suitcase is packed. The meds are ready. Merv is happy and ready to go. At least I can say that now.  Even with my printed list of what to pack it has taken all week to get everything ready.  All Merv's new clothes demanded name tags be sewn to them for identification.  Webster packs with signing sheets have been sorted, ordered and collected.  Respite fee balance has been paid.  CCRC have funded eleven days leaving us to pay the remaining three days. All paid!

Updated notes for the respite centre have been completed, printed and packed along with Merv's meds and taxi vouchers.  Merv will continue to attend the HD day centre and go ten pin bowling with his regular support worker while in respite.  I have bagged individual amounts of cash and labelled each bag with day, date and amount. There is money for the taxi, day centre fees, ten pin bowling and snacks. 

Lastly the right amount of clothes and toiletries need to be packed. All done.  It has been a mammoth task.  Dustin and other family members have arranged to visit Merv while he is in respite.  I believe everything is done.  Merv is finally ready to go.  He looks forward to seeing the regular staff and residents there.  They have accepted him as their own.

Mel Never Alone

I'm a bit of a worry wart, especially when it comes to Mel.  Life has thrown her ongoing challenges from the age of nineteen months to now.  Her first hurdle in life was asthma. It's in the family genes but Mel's asthma put her in hospital over forty times including twice in an intensive care unit. All of this before the age of twelve.  On her sixteenth birthday instead of a party Mel experienced psychosis, later diagnosed with Schizophrenia.  With the help of many family, friends and professionals Mel has had good years and bad.  Fortunately since 2002 a change of meds has made all the difference to her life.   Last year she found out she is HD  positive. I know there are many people who lives are much worst than Mel's, but if I had known what lie ahead for her I would have battled harder.  We have visited all types of medical and non medical professionals and provided numerous opportunities for her.  At times I have to realise life is what it is.  We are so very pleased she is happy and has an active social life and many friends.
Whenever I am away family rally around Mel, especially big sister to ensure she is safe and happy.  I am away for only ten days and this holiday I am not travelling overseas. 
I will always find time to ring or text her, especially when I am away.