spectacle

There was fire in the sky at dusk last night..

east coast

We did a lot of driving today, a loop around part of the East Coast. There are so many beautiful places, you really need a few days to do them justice. We decided on bit of a reconnoissance, a quick drive through the southern section taking note of the places we want to explore some more. The fact that it was squally with icy winds was conducive to driving more than anything else!

We drove south to Campbell Town, turned east and made our way to Coles Bay. The sun, rain, sun pattern continued once we arrived and out of the car the blast of southerly wind was bracing to say the least. A faint rainbow was our reward for being brave enough to get out of the car.

We lunched at Bicheno, making the most of a warm cafe that overlooked the cove. On cue the blue sky dotted with scattered clouds gave way to a sheet of grey and what looked suspiciously like sleet. The beautiful emerald sea turned an inconspicuous grey.

Just north of Bicheno is Denison Beach, a long stretch of white sand bordering a wild sea today. Those ominous clouds crept their way along the coast as well. We took a photo for Johanna, just letting her know that we were at the beach today too - she is in Caloundra, in shorts and t-shirt no doubt, a very different kind of beach experience there.

Elephant Pass, St Mary's and the Fingal valley kept us company on the way home, as did the dark mass of wintry clouds. The drama of the sky created a hide and seek on the ground, deep shade followed by bright sunlight; dark grey and yellow chasing each other across hills and mountains, sheep and tumble down farmhouses and a grey winding road leading us home...

cute as

My mother was puppy sitting for a friend today, Johanna and I availed ourselves of the opportunity for a quick cuddle and a play...

under the boardwalk

This morning I have been watching (somewhat guiltily) the passing parade of joggers, moving with purpose and energy along the boardwalk. It has been months since I have walked regularly; the cold weather, travel and then the last month or more caring for my father have meant little time or energy. This last week I made the hour journey from Launceston to Devonport three times, attending appointments with the doctor, lawyer and bank alongside my father as well as organising a visit from the Aged Care Assessment Team. Helping him remain at home and living independently is the aim. The next month or so will probably be pretty much the same.

At the end of the day, my mind busy and my body tired, the boardwalk is a place to 'just be'. This last week there was even some warmth in the late afternoon sun, the water still and silent, a mirror beneath the boardwalk reflecting another passing parade...

surprise

Thirty minutes or so from Alum Cliffs is a place called Devils Gullet (Lookout). With a name like that we just had to have a look. When you turn off the main road you hit gravel and then you go up and up and up, til suddenly there is white stuff lying on the side of the road. Yep, still snow from a week or more ago. Johanna had never seen snow before, she was ecstatic. We pulled over when there was enough to have a bit of a play.

the first handful of snow

throwing it around

building a snowman

the first attempt

With the promise of more snow further on we continued up the road. We didn't make it to Devils Gullet, the road kind of disappeared under snow eventually and there was no visible walking track but we did find lot's more snow to play in.

onwards and upwards

a place to stop

snow, glorious snow

the first throw

the chase

taking cover

retaliation

taking advantage of an awkward situation

the sun shines through

enjoying the view

building another snowman

finishing touches

Ta Da

time to go

Alum Cliffs

It has been a while since we have done our Saturday exploring thing and we have missed it. Despite a cold and drizzly day we decided to head bush for a bit. My mother had taken Johanna and my nephew to Alum Cliffs a while ago, their enthusiasm for the place inspired another visit. It is a beautiful and spectacular place.

On their previous visit my nephew scaled a large free standing rock on the first go. It took Johanna quite a few attempts! Today my mother offered Johanna $50 if she could successfully climb it on the first go. She accepted the challenge...

preparation

a good start

looking hopeful

in the bag

$50 richer

suspended

Another hospital week - life feels like it has been suspended - I am waiting for 'real life' to resume. My father is to be discharged on Monday. There has been another week of adjusting medications and ensuring he can return successfully to independent living. Amidst the hospital routines I have watched my niece and nephew perform in a ballet concert and my niece in a play. Another nephew (same age as Johanna and attending the same College) will be spending part of each week with us, allowing him to minimise travel time for school and his cycling commitments (which are many when you reach State level).

One of the main reasons for moving back to Tassie was to be around more, to be involved in the lives of my family and help out, especially in times like these past few weeks. I have been away for twenty odd years and while the last few weeks have been stressful at times, I am so thankful to be here...