Day 363 - Tuesday 26 December - And so the journey ends

Day 363
Tuesday 26 December – Finished the novel “A Dog’s Way Home” by W Cameron. This was a great tale of a dog’s loyalty and the lengths it would go to do “Go home”.

Denmark – Williams - Home

Well this is it, the final day. It is hard to believe it is actually here, in fact I wanted to ignore its arrival all together but knew that was not possible. We were awake at 6am, but happy to stay put and read, which allowed me to finish my novel.
At 7am, the longest we have stayed in bed for a while, we finally rolled out of bed and began the final pack up. I made the bed and then wandered down to the house. Paul was off for a shower, while I chatted and sorted the breakfast things. I then ducked in for my shower and followed with breakfast.
We spent the next 30min hunting down all of our’s and yogi’s things, finding space for them in the van and car. Paul loaded the trailer and then attempted to drive the van to the road. He caught one of dad’s fruit tree nets in the process though and then didn’t have enough room to get out the gates. He had to take the trailer back off, drive the van out and then we all helped push the trailer out to the van.
With it all hitched back on, I brought the car out and loaded it on for the final time this trip and then it was hugs all round as we loaded ourselves and a very confused dog into the van and began our final leg of 430km.
We didn’t get far, Mum screaming stop at me as we moved away. I’d left the hand brake on in the car opps. With that sorted, we were finally away, heading first for fuel at BP in town. I had to sit with Yogi while we stopped, as he seemed a little stressed and unsure, but once we were on the road, he seemed to settle down.
Today was a completely different day weather wise. It was cool and overcast and as we drove along the Mount Barker Road, we disturbed puddles of rainwater. By the time we reached the Muir Highway, the wipers were on clearing the water from the windscreen. It didn’t last long and once we hit the Mount Barker round about and turned north on the Albany Highway, the rain was gone.
We reached Kojonup at 1045am, with plenty of cars lining the streets and the bakery open, but we didn’t stop. There had been a steady stream of cars heading south, many towing caravans, holiday makers heading on to various south coast hideaways. I was glad we were making our way north, as there was less traffic heading towards Perth. There was also a decent police presence patrolling the highway, but they always seemed to just miss the idiots.
An hour later we reached Williams. We pulled into the  sports ground ready for a stretch and loo stop. Yogi was pleased to get up and out as well. We did a quick wander between the playground and pool, before returning to the van. Paul checked everything over, finding a broken strap that needed repairing. I watered the dog and gave him a treat and by 12noon we were back on the highway with 175km to go and a couple of hours,
At 1pm, we passed the Jarrahdale turn off and the GPS was telling us we had the final 75km of our  road trip ahead of us. By now I was counting off the kilometres in 5km lots, watching for the green markers telling us how far from Perth, and ultimately home, we were. Not long and we would be at the southern end of suburbia.
The familiar surrounds of Armadale soon were upon us and once we turned into the Tonkin Highway, we were only 30min from our driveway. I tethered the mobile to the iPad doing a few things online as we drove along.
Shortly after, we had to pull over as we could hear this loud banging noise that had us wondering what now? Once we were by the side of the road we could see that the bike was against the car, another strap had snapped and the bike was bouncing against the bonnet. At least it was an easy fix and we were on our way once Paul had tied som knots to join the broken pieces.
We were surprised to see so many changes on Tonkin Highway and the new flyovers. Boy will that make a difference when it is all complete. We were even surprised to see new buildings of substantial size, how they were erected in such a short time frame had us baffled.
2pm and we were onto Wanneroo Road and turning into the streets of home, finally rounding the street and spying our house, something we haven’t seen for nearly 12 months. Home.

We have been back in the house now for 4 nights, we have relished the luxury of our queen size bed, huge shower recess and flushing toilets, but it is all feeling a bit foreign and excessively large. We have seen some of our family and friends and now are ready to get back in the van and head off again. This home owning, suburbia, running to a schedule is so far removed from our norm of late that we would prefer to run away. We had devised a list of jobs we would need to complete during our 4 weeks at home, but have realised that there is just so much more that needs doing, it is very overwhelming.
We will however, plod along, do what we can, live vicariously through the Facebook memories that have already begun replaying our amazing adventure and look forward to our next journey. Thanks for joining us during this one.

Day 362 - Monday 25 December - A peaceful Christmas Day

Day 362
Monday 25 December

Denmark

Well Santa managed to find the boys. I was glad we were somewhat removed from the excitement as we found out they were awake at 5am, but weren’t out until 530am. We both needed the loo at 630am, so we joined the pandemonium of unwrapped toys and gibbering excitement. Bleary eyed, we watched as Darcy gleefully showed us his stash.
We joined in with the present giving and receiving, before the mass clean up began. Brad and Laura got busy loading up their car, filling every single inch of space and in the meantime, the rest of us began organising our traditional Christmas breakfast, croissants with ham and cheese, yum.
By 930am, we were saying goodbye to Brad, Laura, Jack and Darcy, who were ready to start their 5 hour return journey to Perth to spend Christmas dinner with Laura’s family.
It was a bit strange without them all around and I am sure Yogi was wondering what was going on. We retreated to the house, sitting in the lounge and enjoying the peace. We were pretty lazy for the next couple of hours, spending time loading on the couch and net surfing. I began going through the Christmas photos and sorting them out, as well as deactivating Mum’s extra Facebook account.
We eventually picked through some of yesterday’s left overs for lunch and then Dad decided to go and hit some golf balls. We returned to the van for a lay down and to read. We had to have the aircon on, as it was surprisingly warm.
Once rejuvenated, we began the long pack up. Paul rolled in the awning, put things in the car and in the van storage. I did a scout around of things I could put away, as well as try and reprogram the tyre sensors, it didn’t work and when we were done, we returned to the house.
Dad was keen to get out for a walk, so we piled into the Patrol and drove out toward Ocean Beach. We took the long way, as Dad wanted to do a drive by some homes that were for sale, eventually pulling in to the carpark of the dog Beach. Yogi knew where we were and was straight out of the car and leading his pack across the bridge and onto the sand.
We enjoyed the glorious weather and blue skies, as we walked knee deep through the warm waters of prawn channel, with Paul throwing the ball for the excited pooch. What a wonderful way to spend Christmas afternoon. There were plenty of other families and dog lovers out doing the same.
We returned to the car and made our way home, again it was the long way. Dad was keen to show off more of the homes, many so well hidden amongst the trees.
Once back, we gathered our drinks and nibbles and retreated upstairs to enjoy the view across the inlet. It is such a great spot to sit back relax and watch the world go by. We sat about chatting and watching yogi dog become frustrated, as he paced around below us. Dad eventually went down stairs and collected him.
We all ventured back down, just after 6pm, watching the news for a bit. The leftovers came out once again and we managed to finish off a number of dishes, finally clearing some space in the fridge. We settled in to the lounge once more. Dad Skyped the UK, allowing us to say hello to Aunty Ruth, John and Sharon, it was lovely to see them all, though Ruth was sick and looked bloody awful and apparently Nicky was in bed with the flu.
We saw the Queen’s message, a first and began watching The Royal Variety performance, but it was so lame, it drove Paul and into bed at 830pm. We settled in for our final night, a poignant moment in our travels, tomorrow evening we will be in our bedroom with all that space. It is all a bit strange really and a little sad saying goodbye to this adventure.

Day 361 - Sunday 24 December - Celebrating Christmas early

Day 361
Sunday 24 December

Denmark

Christmas Eve, but Christmas Day for us, well at least the feasting part. Once again we were awake early, but stayed put, not wanting to venture into the onslaught of noise too soon. Unfortunately, needing the loo dictates the necessity to get up.
We changed, made the bed and then wandered down to the house where everyone was up and about. We had breakfast and sat chatting, sorting out proceedings. Brad and Laura took the kids, to get them out for a run and in the meantime, Paul and I returned to the van to begin shucking the oysters. This turned out to be an easier task than usual, as freezing them had killed them and the vice like clamp they employ to keep the shell closed was loosened. I watched another episode of my DVD, as we arranged the oysters on the trays and I cut up the bacon needed for the topping.
When everything was done, we returned to the house with champagne and began organising the seafood lunch, oysters and prawns. Paul and I put our ones together, a loose kilpatrick version, while Brad made some with blue cheese and bread crumbs.
When everything was prepared, we sat around the table and enjoyed the delicious offerings. Mum wouldn’t touch the oysters, which meant more for the rest of us and the boys had pizza. The drinks and good times flowed. It was a wonderful start to our festive celebrations.
We did the clean up, once we were all finished and then sat about comatose. Paul made a few phone calls home, chatting to Errol, Damon, Merida, Jo and Ballsy at different times and passing on the Christmas wishes. We enjoyed sitting around by the van in the shade as it was quite a warm day. Meanwhile,  Brad took the kids to the river for a swim and a swing on the rope.
When everyone returned, it was back to the kitchen to prepare the salads for dinner and for Brad to glaze the ham. The preparation didn’t take too long and we were able to retreat upstairs with our drinks and enjoy some time out on the balcony, taking in the view of the inlet waters. A great moment to reflect on our day and our year in general.
Jack let us know that the oven was beeping, so we returned to the lounge, the carols playing in the background. We decided to give the boys their presents before dinner, which they quickly unwrapped, letting out screams of joy with what they had received and then groans when they were told they couldn’t open the LEGO boxes.
After the clean up of paper, we were ready to go with the dinner. The table was prepped and the dishes of food were put out. Brad carved up the turkey and ham and then it was on for young and old. Crackers cracked, hats on, jokes read and in we tucked to our feast. It was all so good and it wasn’t too long before I was feeling rather full.
We did the dishes and then Mum and Dad gave the boys their gift, this time they were allowed to open up and erect their monster truck tracks and have a bit of fun. We then doused the plum pudding in brandy and set it  alight, before carving it up and serving the dessert.
When the boys were all done, they put out the obligatory milk and cookies for Santa and food for the reindeer and then I read them one of the Christmas stories I had bought them as a gift. Darcy was more hyper than usual, to be expected I guess, but full on all the same. I doubt he will sleep much tonight. They were put to bed at 845pm, a very late one and soon there was no noise, a miracle. Brad and Laura got busy putting out the presents and Paul ate the Santa cookies and not long after, we were finally making our way to the van for a well needed sleep.

Day 360 - Saturday 23 December - Birthdays in Denmark

Day 359

Saturday 23 December -Happy Birthday Mum

Denmark

7am and I was awake and happy to be reading some of my book that I have neglected of late. We eventually got up at 8am and joined the others in the house, where we wished Mum a happy birthday and gave her her new phone.

We ate breakfast, as I began loading Mum’s apps via the wifi, but it was taking forever. Brad and Dad took the boys fishing on the inlet in the dinghy leaving us in peace and giving Laura a chance to wrap presents.  In the end we left it and took the dog for a walk, enjoying the chance to get out in the fresh air once again. We spent some of the time walking through the forest trail, admiring the trees and plant life, so different to what we have been used to of late.

Once back, I continued to work on Mum’s phone as Mum and Laura busily continued wrapping presents before Brad returned with the entourage and no fish. I finally got everything loaded and then it was time to tackle Optus, but I had to leave it with Brad as Paul and I were off to Boston Brewery to catch up with Brian from Artisan Brewery, who Gypsy brews from their premises.

We joined Brian in the brewery, where we chatted about his beers and his beer journey before Paul tried some of the beers direct from the tanks. Paul was given a tshirt which always makes him happy.

We made our way to the Denmark tavern after the brewery visit so that Paul could try the Artisan range on tap there and then we returned home for much needed lunch. We settled in front of the TV to watch the Brisbane v Sydney basketball game. I spent time going through Mum’s phone. Unfortunately, Brad wasn’t able to fix the Optus issue and after becoming frustrated with the round about he was getting from the call centre he decided to leave it.

When the basketball finished, we drove into Denmark to watch the Perth Wildcats v Illawarra game at the pub. We sat with a drink and settled in for the next couple of hours. The game started well for us but soon deteriorated badly, leaving us with our heads in our hands. It really was not a good showing and after being up by 16pt at quarter time, we ended up down 84 v 96.

We returned home somewhat dejected and ready to drown our sorrows. We joined the family, choosing to eat outside. Brad had made delicious arancini balls to start and then home made pizzas. It was all very relaxed until the mozzies came out and we had to retreat inside and continue the feast, including cake for mum’s birthday.

The boys were bathed and sent to bed, while we adults stayed up for a while longer chatting. I spent most of the time trying to sort out Mum and Dad’s Facebook issues, which I thought was going to be beyond me, but after pulling faces, a few choice words and persevering I managed to get somewhere and was happy to head to bed.

Day 359 - Friday 22 December - Denmark Days

Day 358

Friday 22 December

Denmark

We both managed to sleep until 7.15am before heading to the house needing the loo. We found everyone up and in the family room. We made a cuppa and then joined the circle, still trying to wake up. The kids had us amused with their various carry on.

Brad sorted Jack and the two of them went off for a kayak on the inlet. We had breakfast and a shower. Jack returned and Darcy was taken down to the inlet for his turn out on the kayak. Paul and I got on with our homework.

Paul and I then put the lead on Yogi and took him for a walk along Inlet Drive, enjoying the peace and quiet once again. It was quite overcast and cool, but it was pleasant. The dog was very happy when we turned back for home. He is getting so lazy.

Once back, I snuck up stairs with Brad to see if we could organise Mum’s phone. It turned out to be a bigger mission than expected. I snuck back down a couple of times to bring back Mum’s old phone and then Dad’s computer, in an attempt to find passwords. Unfortunately, we were thwarted with our attempts and we decided to give up and wait until after we had given it to her.

We returned to everyone else and then it was time to get changed, so that we could head out to lunch. Mum and Dad were treating us all to lunch as part of our Christmas present. Brad had booked us in for a 12noon table at Ajar, the restaurant attached to Estate 808.

We drove out through the forest and into wine country, finding the estate about 15min later. Paul and I both had the same look on our face, remembering this estate from a previous visit, one we weren’t overly impressed by.

We walked into the tasting room, completing a wine tasting of the small range and choosing a sparkling pinot noir to have with lunch. We were shown to our outdoor table with a view over the property. We perused the menu, made our choice and then enjoyed the afternoon chatting, drinking and having a good feed.

We made the decision to go to Southern End for dessert and so Paul could do a review of the beers. We have always enjoyed the view from the top of the hill, overlooking the inlet and the Southern Ocean. It is a very relaxing spot to hang out at.

When we were all done, we did a quick stop in at the pub to check for Foxtel and to grab ice and then we returned home. I was feeling stuffed, so I spent the next hour laying on the bed and watching a DVD.

Just before 4.30pm we dressed the dog and kids in Christmas gear and made our way into town for the parade. We had a bit of a restless wait, but it was eventually off at 5.15pm. The boys slotted in with the other kids who were riding their decorated bikes and while Brad walked with them he took Yogi with him who was more interested in greeting the onlookers. It was great to see them community spirit .

When Yogi had obviously had enough, we took him home and them met everyone back at the Riverside club for dinner. It was quite busy, so we got in quick with our meal choices and then watched the parade of locals coming by to find out who we were. I felt like we were the new attraction in town.

Dinner was delicious, but I was feeling somewhat overindulged after all the meals we had out today. I was happy to see the evening finish and we returned to the house. The kids were straight into the shower and then bed. The rest of us were up for an hour longer but by 9pm I was more than ready to get back to bed.

Day 358 - Thursday 21 December - Day in Denmark

Day 357

Thursday 21 December

Denmark

The sun comes up too early. I was awake at 5.45am again, went to the loo and then returned to bed. In the end I sat up reading my book. Paul went to the house loo and was gone for a while, returning to tell me I was being lazy, though he did join me for a short lie down to read his book too.

At 8am I figured I should get out of bed too. We gathered our washing, changed the sheets and then wandered to the house to greet everyone. I had a shower and then sat down to breakfast. Brad, Laura and the kids were packing the car ready for their morning at the beach. The dog didn’t miss a beat and was racing around obviously thinking he was going with them. In then end, they were happy to take him, so we bundled him and all his gear into the back of the car and they were off.

I returned to the house and Dad’s computer, happy to be using it to sort out the blog and photos, rather than the Ipad. This also allowed Paul to write up his reviews from yesterday. I did what I had to do in between putting out the washing.

Mum left to head into town for a while and I got Dad busy finding out what he could about getting Mum a new sim card for her phone. The others returned from the beach, Yogi looking exhausted. I started preparing the curry dinner, ready for Paul to take over. Dad had returned from town, none the wiser, so I went with him to ask the questions. Eventually we came home with a new sim card that we hoped we could just transfer the current phone number to.

Everyone was home by the time we got back, thankfully Mum hadn’t noticed her phone missing. We had lunch, before I went outside to give the dog a bath. He had brought home half the beach with him and it was quite a challenge trying to wash it out.

We have worked out that he is now quite deaf. He is not hearing conversations occurring near him and often doesn’t hear us calling for him or giving him instructions. We need to make sure we are right in front of him and close by, so that he hears us or at least sees the hand gestures.

Following his bath, Dad took him to the bowls club. Meanwhile Paul, Brad and the kids trundled off to Boston Brewery and Mum, Laura and I went into town to join Mum’s friends for a coffee at Mrs Jones. Laura and I had a wander through the attached art gallery, amazed at the prices requested for some of the pieces.

When we were all done, we met the boys at Boston, enjoying some time sitting in the sun and a selection of icecream and sorbet. The boys were well occupied as they played with the other kids on the playground. We chatted with an Italian couple on holiday, giving them a few tips and then made our way back home.

Paul’s green chicken curry was smelling divine. We hung out in the house enjoying some champagne as Brad got busy making up spring rolls for entrée. They weren’t quite what he wanted, but they were delicious all the same.

The boys ate and were put in the bath and we then sat down to the delicious curry. There was plenty of left overs for tomorrow which made Dad happy, as the rest of us are heading out for lunch. We sat up chatting for a while, but it wasn’t long before we were all ready for bed.