Hello! Arrived in Melbourne Last Thursday 29th with Rodney picking me up at the airport. His brother Roy and his family Lynsey and the boys arrived the same day. I have had a brilliant time here. it has certainly been a home from home. Think I have got out of the backpacking routine a bit so i might struggle a little when i move on. Their house is gorgeous, very comfortable and homely and gorgeous with lots of space. they hace 10acres of land which includes a large pond, a tennis court, and a golf course so there is plenty to do here.

The first few days we had was bad weather, lots of raion and quite cold, couldnt believe I had to start wearing a jumper and jeans in Oz, preperation for NZ tho. It was nice and realxing here, we just got involved in their daily routine, went to joshuas swimming competition, and his cricket ceremony. We have met lots of their friends here and seen how they live. Its a wonderful area in the countryside with lots of wineries and a beautiful view of the ocean.

On Sunday Night they spoilt us and took us to the finals of the world swimming championships at the Rod Laven arena. It was an absolutely fantastic atmosphere and I thoroughly enjoyed watching it. Went for dinner after at a lovely fish restaurant on southbank (along the yarra river).

Tuesday Jackie took Lyn, I and the kids to sorrento, a beautiful village on the edge of the peninsula. we had a picnic in a park over looking the sea.

Wednesday I left them for the day and had a stroll around the city on my own, they live an hr away from the city. I had a fantastic time and saw lots!

Thursday Jackie took lyn and I to the victoria market which we loved looking around. Fantastic stuff ( all made from china, he he!!)

The Easter weekend was just wonderful to spend with a family, made me miss home allot but I was lucky to be in such great company. Saturday they invited a few of their friends for lunch which didnt end to the early hrs of the morning. Sunday and Monday we relaxed in their garden as the weather has been perfect, very hot so all the kids loved just playing in the garden. This evening after a late lunch we popped over to canadian bay to see some of their friends at the boat house for a drink and it was stunning to watch the sunset and you could see melbourne city from there, very beautiful.

Moving on to Auckland tomorrow to stay with Tina and Mark (Ati's cousin). i must say im quite scared to get back into the backpacking routine again, i got very comfortable here, and certainly ate allot!

anyway, lots of love to all and cant wait to see the family in SA.

Big Kisses xxxxxxxxx