Visiting the parentals....

I've been away for a few days as I made a flying visit to the Gold Coast Australia to spend a few days with my parents and celebrate my Dad's 80th birthday.  It's approx a 3 hour flight from Auckland to Coolangatta (Gold Coast).  I went over Thursday afternoon and back Monday afternoon.  It was to be a surprise visit... my brother knew I was coming and was picking me up.   But fate intervened.... Dad rang Wednesday night to let me know my Mum was unwell and was in hospital so I had to let him know I was coming the next day.  He didn't let Mum know so it was a huge surprise to her when I got to the hospital.  Luckily she was able to come out the next day. 

Dad and I went out for a lovely walk on Friday morning

On Saturday, I caught up with my friend Michelle.  We haven't seen each other for about 5 years...  She took me to the Spit ... a very pretty spot where I could look down to the main Surfer's Paradise beach

The two of us  

Sunday was Dad's birthday and we had a lovely dinner cooked by my niece Toni. And Dad enjoyed himself.   Mum was up to eating with us which was lovely.  

I was sad to have to come home, but really please I was able to be there to help them celebrate.  

And before I leave, I have a photo that Dad showed me of my family circa 1960.  I was three and my brother 15 months approx.  

 

Time to get back into some crafting ... at least for a couple of days, before we head away for a 4 day weekend in Napier to visit some friends... we are flying down ( a one hour flight on a little wee plane)  A very busy September!

Sending thoughts and prayers to all my American followers who have been caught in the storms - hoping everyone is safe.