Good-bye Rob, Kate, Tyson, Monster and Zebiya. (Tripod, their 3 legged feline was unavailable for this photo)
Kate and Rob had to go back to work this morning. We really appreciated them both taking the week off in order to entertain us - we're spoiled and we know it!
We could see the mountains again today so the fires in our immediate area must be under control and fewer in number. Tina and I used the day for laundry, repacking and relaxation. With the temperature at 35+ degrees we weren't about to expend too much energy! The best thing that happened this afternoon occurred when Tina noticed a home delivery ice cream truck ringing a bell while driving by the house. It didn't take me long to find my wallet and chase him down the street and round the corner. Mmmm... strawberry sundaes for lunch and more in the freezer for later!!
Rob and Kate came home early, enough time for Rob to show us maps and pictures taken during his 8 months in Afghanistan, before we packed up the car for another beautiful ride in the country. This time it was along twisting roads among prosperous farm properties - some even with castles!! We crossed a very old medieval-looking bridge near Kangaroo Valley and ended up at the Moss Vale pub for dinner. And it was another great dinner - porterhouse steaks for Tina and Rob and NZ green lip muscles for Kate and I. (We did also share a marvelous hazelnut torte and lemon tart)
Following dinner, we took a walk around this beautiful community before saying farewell to Rob and Kate. What wonderful hosts they have been!
Just after 10 pm we caught the night train to Melbourne (another error in our planning - what were we thinking?!). We had booked a sleeper so our conductor presented us with fully stocked toiletry bags, fresh towels and snack packs and gave us a tour of the facilities.
After we had settled in, she returned to put down our bunks - bottom bunk for me this time! This train is very different from the Queensland train - each state has its own system. We have our own toilet, sink and shower to be shared with the next compartment which happens to be vacant. Below are 2 pictures of the compact bathroom, one with the toilet and sink folded up leaving room for a shower and the second with the sink folded down and the shower in view. There are 2 shower curtains - one to keep the sink/toilet dry and the other protecting the door where you can hang your towel and clothing. The total floor area for showering must be about 18"square!!
We turned off the lights around midnight. Please let me have a good night!
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