Goolwa Wooden Boat Festival February 2013

Had a brilliant time at the Wooden Boat Festival in Goolwa.  The event was opening by Griff Rhys-Jones and the atmosphere was great.  Watched a good part of it from the comfort of a raised bank in the shade of a huge eucalyptus tree.  The sausage sizzle and ice cold cola were very welcome on this hot (38) but thankfully breezy day.

McLaren Vale

Had a great day yesterday around McLaren Vale. Simeon's ship was a little late arriving due to bad weather on the journey from Hobart but we still managed to see and do lots.

Quick stops at Semaphore, Glenelg, Brighton to admire the beaches - coffee break at the Teal Turtle at Port Noarlunga, picture opportunities at Southport with great views over the mouth of the Onkaparinga River - Wine tasting at Angove and Chapel Hill, almonds and olives at the Almond Train, delicious lunch at the Blessed Cheese before more wine and an impromptu 'concert' by Simeon at Hugh Hamilton's picturesque winery.

Back home through the hills and Clarendon for afternoon tea and a short break at our house before a great evening meal at the Belair Hotel (Amazing soft shell crab salad) coffees and back to the airport via Windy Point for a final view over the City.

 

Simeon at Hugh Hamilton's

Simeon gives us an impromtu performance at Hugh Hamilton's vineyard in McLaren Vale during his one-day stopover in Adelaide on 20th February 2013

Brighton Sculptures

I love this event and took some of my own pictures of this year's exhibits while walking along the esplanade the other day.

Stage 3 TDU 2013 Unley - Stirling

Had a great week at the TDU and watched our two favourite stages live - Stirling and Willunga.

Made loads of new friends from all over Australia at Stirling while were camped out on the main street for the first few laps and we saw the penultimate lap and exciting finish right on the line - superb view!

Met up with several of the friends from Stirling again at Willunga. Had a prime viewing spot again right on the crossroad opposite a large screen and shaded for most of the day. Great party atmosphere as always and lots of happy memories.

Back to the quilts

Finally finished making blocks from a 'citrus bright' jelly roll. The black sashing really makes it 'pop' and it should look good when its finished.

Phew

After a couple of cool days and even overnight rain we were soon back to temperatures in the high 30s.  Been down to the beach most evenings for a cooling swim.  Unfortunately several of out favourite beaches have had sightings of sharks  .......................  They seem to be avoiding Brighton luckily.

Had our first electricity bill since having the solar panels installed and managed to be over $150 in credit.  With all this sunshine we should build up a decent credit before winter.

Back to the quilting again and made a couple of tote bags for a change