Nice People these Aussies...

12/24 - 12/26
     We had an opportunity to meet so many of Vee and Ken's friends, what an interesting group...Lynn Torode who I meant in St. Thomas years ago showed up on the 24th with one of her buddies Andrea...these 2 woman have had more adventures than you can imagine...Andrea moved to Jamaica at one point in her life and lived in a hut, native style...no running water or electricity, even cooked over a wood fire. She was so funny and descriptive she could keep us enthraled with her escapades all night...and then Lynn recounted her night the Hurricane hit St. Thomas...between these 2 and Vee, who is a great adventurer in her own right, the stories just kept coming...all of these should be written down and produced into a adventure film...these Aussie girls are fearless!
     On Xmas night Vee's old buddy Donna, along with husband Ross and son Angus, came over and we were again mesmerized by their adventures and travels...these 2 adults are making sure young Angus (15 years old) sees the whole world...they had even spent some time in our neck of the woods up around Allen's Park (just above Lyon's). We had such a good time and the night just melted away. So much story telling, laughing and conversation...absolutely marvelous.
     Last night another old friend Andy and his wife Antanella stopped by...these 2 live in Italy (Northern Lakes Area) most of the year but visit Andy's family in Australia every December - February...so yes, they come for the summer and sailing. Andy whipped out his phone and had pictures of a number of places we had just seen (as had he)...they have a business leasing properties to tourist and travel a great deal within Italy finding new and better spots...very interesting people who may prove to be a super contact when we return to Italy.
     Then there is mild mannered Ken Day, Vee's partner...this guy is such a gracious host and seems so mild mannered and thoughtful...he doesn't really say much about himself but instead enjoys thoughtful, analytical conversation...Vee had let slip that he was at one time connected to the Federal Police department in Australia...after prying a little we realized he was quite a bit more than just some flat foot...we googled him and he is really pretty famous...go ahead and google him...this is the guy we just spent 10 days with...amazing.

Ken and Vee

A reflective Vee.

Somebody said he looks like Ringo Star...what do you think?

Wilson Prom

Vee Taylor at her best.

?????

Flinders Station...Melbourne.

JFK Memorial.

Fletcher...he can actually open the fridge!

Christmas Pudding.

Night sky in Sandringham.

    All in all we have had such a great time in Melbourne...The trip to Wilson's Prom, the Penguin's, our walks on the beach, 2 days spent exploring the city and a wonderful Xmas Eve, Xmas and Boxing Day...Vee and Ken were great to spend time with and our hope is we can someday return the favor and have them come to Colorado.
     On to Tasmania...