Arriving back in Australia: January 29, 2007

Craig's Mum, Cathie, in her kitchen

Jock and Craig

We left the cold winters of the Northern Hemisphere and all the travelling and moving we had done, to reunite with the hot Australian summer and settle indefinately back in Melbourne. It had been 4 years since we lived in Melbourne. It is great to be back. It really is a special city. It has changed a little in the last 4 years; more stylish, people seem wealthier. But more important than the city is being back with family and friends, many of whom have also changed: many more little ones running around compared with 4 years ago.

Our first week was spent staying with Craig's mum, Cathie and her wonderful two dogs, Jessie (mama dog) and Jock the pup. Cathie lives just a few blocks from the beach, so we swam a bit and enjoyed the expansiveness of Australia and summer. After living in Japan and travelling aroudn Europe and the US, we forgot just how good Australian beaches are. Aside from enjoying the local beach, we spent most of the week crouched over the computer researching a hundred things we needed to buy to build up our new home and lives. It was a bit overwhelming. In that first week we made decisions about phones and internet providers, what kind of energy/gas/water to get (who knew there were so many choices), as well as getting a new bed, fridge, washing machine, car, computer, couches, sound system....

Cathie was a sensational host and we were at our lowest as guests, she cooked many tasty meals for us while we slowly came out of our shells, gradually integrating with our new surroundings. It was so odd, after all this time incessantly on the move, to arrive somewhere without the clear limits of imminent departure.

On February 4th, Cathie hosted a combination welcome back & engagement party. Catered by a Japanese acquaintance in full traditional dress, about 40 people came and celebrated with us in the warm sunshine.

Bridget with Mark, Jennie with Emma

Steve Kwok with Craig's brother Neil and his partner Stacey


Meeting a new family, Dan, Emma and wee Elias who
doesn't like it when you laugh too big or loud like Craig did.


Keeping to the shady spots were Rita and Adrian, Jo and Shawn

Thanks to everyone who came to the engagement/welcoming party!!