Cyclone Joyce

The remains of Cyclone Joyce which lashed northern Western Australia last week dumped more than four months worth of  rain on Perth in less than 24 hours. A short shopping trip turned into a drench fest, while we waited for more than 40 minutes for a train to take us back to Jess and Catlin's apartment. The train was seriously delayed due to the heavy downpour that created some flooding in areas of Perth, electrical outrages and train delays. The pool in the apartment complex was close to overflowing. The weather since then has turned sunny and hot and we enjoying the improved weather.

Beach Day

Jess took us to Sorrento Beach today which lies next to Hillarys Boat Harbour, about 30 minutes north of Subiaco(where Jess and Catlin live). Sorrento Beach is one of Perth's traditional northern beach suburbs, and has beautiful white sand, and gentle waves. The day was gloriously warm and sunny! We have been beach starved!

This is the Hillarys Boat Harbour. It plays host to boats, families, eateries, bars, and shops.

It's Been A Slice New Zealand!

Our time in NZ is now over, and we had a 7-hour flight to Perth, Australia, where Catlin was waiting for us at arrivals. It was great to return to Australia, it almost feels like home! We had an evening, and one full day catching up with Catlin and Jess, and then he flew to back to work, but will return at the end of the month. Jess is busy with work, so we make sure there is supper waiting for her at the end of the day. We have had a few lazy days, reading, lounging by the pool, and having lovely, relaxed evenings with Jess. Oh, and the weather is a huge improvement from New Zealand!

New Brighton

New Brighton is a coastal suburb of Christchurch. The day we were there was bright and sunny with a cool wind off the Pacific Ocean, a bit too cool for me! Families were having a great time relaxing in the sand and surf, and pool and playground.

Lyttelton

Lyttelton is a small town that lies a short distance southeast of Christchurch. Christchurch's first European settlers landed here in 1850. Lytteltown was badly damaged during the 2010-2011earthquakes and many of the town's heritage buildings have been demolished because of this event. This small, interesting community has recovered, and displays an artsy, bohemian feel, and is a hub for some great eateries and pubs.

Christchurch Botanical Gardens

We spent a morning at Christchurch's beautiful Botanical Gardens. The parking lot was full, but the gardens are so spacious that it didn't feel crowded and over busy. Such a beautiful, relaxing area of the city!

Beaches North of Christchurch

New Zealand does have sandy beaches!!  This one we stopped at was beautiful! There is always a lot of driftwood on every beach attesting to the rough seas that surround NZ. The driftwood has provided a medium for artists...we have seen creations such as driftwood animals, chimes, picture frames, garden accents, and so forth, all quite beautifully done!