New ipad

Well, where do I start?   I have a new iPad, so Ken can have one too when I go away.   That is as good an excuse as any, don't you agree?   The only thing is, now I have to get used to it all over again!

August, Osage County

Another film not to be missed, but don't go, like me, expecting to have a laugh (it was graded 'Comedy') cos it is a black comedy, but wonderful performances by Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts.   Talk about a dysfunctional family, this family beats the lot.

I found it!!

My birthday card from Heidi for last September turned up in the New Years grand clear out, about to be undertaken

Oh well, thanks Heidi

and then we went to the cinema

to see Judy Denches latest film success Philomena, it lived up to all expectations, a film not to be missed.  She is such a great actress, warts and all!

See it if you can.

New Years Day

started bright and early with a walk from Conningham where Joan used to live, to Legacy Beach, a cliff top walk with lovely views along the way.

New Years Eve

On the spur of the moment we decided we would hold a simple BBQ here at our place.  Had a quick trip rounding up the neighbours and twelve of them turned up at six pm for a sausage sizzle,followed by our Christmas Pudding and mince pies.   The evening was pleasant so we cleared out the carport and sat out there, as there is a bit more room there and that is where the BBQ is, so it all went off very well and we all agreed that we should do this on a regular basis.   There is a lot to be said for just making up your mind and doing something, rather than planning it weeks in advance.

Shirley was on duty  though I forgot to take a photo till all the sausages were gone

Then came the Pudding, I really enjoy mandie's dead Irish Catholic Stepmothers recipe

Tim's Birthday

We went to dinner with Mandie and Tim on the 27th, Mandie had the day off so she was on kitchen duty but somehow she managed to coerce William into doing the cooking, while she acted as kitchen hand and made the trifle!   We has stuffed chicken breasts, new potatoes, haloumi and a salad dressed by Mandie.  All very tasty.   Tim enjoyed his usual mince pies and I did manage a small baked raspberry cheesecake for Mandie, you can see these on the bench.

Williams girlfriend Nell joined us at the table

Not sure what time we left!