In good times and bad

I am certain that by now you know I am a sucker for a good surprise! I am constantly trying to pull one over on my children. As for me, I am a hard target. J  On December 8th, a huge surprise birthday party was thrown for the 40^th birthday of Mon Amie, Christine. We all gathered under a cabana at Caloundra beach as her husband lured her there for a “work” function. The anticipation of her arrival made me giddy! Based on the tears streaming down Christine’s face, the surprise was a great success! The other day I was reminiscing over the day’s events, when it came to mind how fabulous it was to have such an incredible group of friends gather even though Christine has lived here just over a year. Despite the fact that many of us are here temporarily, the folks of Bulimba have opened their arms and wrapped them ever so tightly around us!

 We began the week by celebrating Christine’s birthday. Unfortunately, we ended the week by saying “see you later” to some dear friends who are heading back to their home towns. As I said, Bulimba welcomed us all with open arms. Those arms, once again, wrapped tightly around two dear friends…until next time!

Christine's 40th:

Lisa and Gabi camped out in order to reserve the picnic area.

 

Their efforts paid off and the decorations were beautiful! Bravo Girls!

 

 

Surprise!

 

Tears of joy!

 

Hannah Grace and Sophia

 

Thanks to Stewart, Hannah Grace gave surfing a try. He was a great coach!

 

Go Hannah Grace!

 

 

Dinner with Yvonne:

Yvonne is headed back to Portland. :(

 

Our Last Bunco with Yvonne and Joy. :(

 

Me, Amy, Joy, and Erica

Joy is headed to Denmark.

These were the first friends I made in Bulimba. They make my heart happy!

 

We will miss you, Joy and Yvonne!

 

 

 

 

Pawpaw and Giggy finally visit Australia

Almost a week has passed since Thanksgiving Day in the states. I believe it was about 85F in Bulimba. We didn’t have turkey. We feasted on Cajun Chicken Pasta. It didn’t feel a thing like Thanksgiving, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t ever so thankful! My biggest thankful moment over the last two weeks was having my in-laws in town. It isn’t often that I get to spend time with just them. Usually our time is consumed entertaining and keeping a watch on all the grandchildren. This time, while my kiddos were at school, I had the days to spend with just them…in my territory (insert evil laugh). I may have walked their feet off, but I think they had a great time. We had lots of laughs, too. I have decided that I need to start a book on all the unintended funny statements that Mrs. Rutland made!

 

 

Looking good after a looonnngg flight!

Our first of many lunches.

 

Lunch at Mt. Coot-tha

 

The Wheel of Brisbane

 

Boarding the wheel: "It was nice knowing you!"

"What did I do with my sunglasses?!"

 

Enjoying some time on the deck.

Giggy getting her dog fix with Maggie

 

Another yummy lunch! I think Pawpaw was just glad we weren't walking (or shopping) anymore!

 

 

Our first trip to Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo:

"Crikey!"

We were at the zoo three days before a trainer was attacked by one of the tigers.

The koalas were up in the trees above our head. So cool!

 

Hannah Grace's face is priceless!

Ellis was quite excited!

 

Giggy finally got to hold a koala!

 

 

 



 

One of our favorite places: Stradbroke Island

On the ferry ride to the island

 

 

It was a bit windy!

 

Giggy with two of her grands

 

Taking in the beautiful scenery before the hail storm rolled in.

 

 

Looking forward to their next trip! Hint, Hint J