After all the traveling and events in early March, it was nice to have a few quiet weeks at home in Woonona. One day I did a bit of a “visual journal” on my daily hour+ walk through local beaches and environs. McCauley’s beach is an off-leash “dog beach” nearby, where humans are allowed as well. Dogs are definitely a prominent part of South Coast culture.
The family put a lot of energy into planning Evie’s Harry Potter-themed 8th birthday party. She designed and helped make both a Monster Book of Monster’s decoy cake, and the real birthday cake, which was “Everlyn’s Book of Spells.” All her grandparents were there, plus her extended family and families of her friends. Everyone was invited to dress as a Harry Potter character: dress-up/costume/fancy-dress parties are quite the norm for Jon and Angela’s family and friend group. Most of the adults chilled on the back patio while the kids and some adults, including me dressed as Professor McGonagall, played some very creative Harry Potter themed games.
Finally, after having been in Australia for three months, I gave myself permission to indulge in a rare treat for me – sitting on the beach, reading a book without any time or commitment pressure. Of course, I tried to do it in the minimal Aussie way with no umbrella, just a wide-brimmed hat. The small folding chair showed my American beachgoer side, but I needed it 😀 I was enjoying my friend Rev. Alison Moore’s relatively new release, “To Rule Brittania.”
