I hadn't seen the Hiking Gang in well over a year, so it was so lovely to meet up. I drove up with Lauren and we all met at Blackheath. Zante and Andrew brought there little one who is so cute. After a relaxed hike, we went back to the house that Petros and Michelle were renting for the weekend and had the most amazing lunch.
Life Trove
27 April 2024
Evans Lookout to Govett's Leap with the Hiking Gang
8 August 2023
In loving memory of Graeme
A dear hiking friend, Graeme Perkes, passed away a week ago after a two year battle with cancer. Graeme lived life to the full more than just about anyone I know. He travelled all over the world, often exploring on foot or bicycle. He was a real inspiration. We will all really miss him.
I attended his funeral in Rouse Hill. It was a beautiful celebration of his life. Lauren did a wonderful speech that made us laugh through the tears. She represented his friends. Graeme's two nephews also did a tribute, representing his family.
There were three tribute videos, one from his friends and one from the family. And lastly, and most special of all, was a video by Graeme of some of his photos and video footage from his hiking in Nepal. So beautiful and soulful. It felt even more profound because I am about to head to Nepal myself, in his footsteps. I'll be doing the same hike as him to Everest basecamp.
A poem by Natham Lattimore, written and recited at Graeme's request
8 July 2023
3 February 2023
Picnic at Lane Cove National Park
Wonderful to meet up with the hiking gang again and play a fun game of croquet. The highlight was meeting Zante's adorable new baby. It was good to see dear Graeme too, who is currently in a battle with cancer.
27 March 2022
Weekend away in The Southern Highlands
A wonderful weekend away at Little Forrest Cottages in Alpine with Lauren, Christian, Kim, Derek, Jassenka, Sanchie, David, Maria, Juni and Eugenie.
Highlights included...
- A spread of food for breakfast and dinner fit for a king including succulent salmon, kofta to die for, the best bean salad I've ever tasted and amazing tiramisu.
- A squelchy, damp stroll around the forested circumference of the property where we stayed. The leeches were out in force but we were onto them before they could take hold.
- Lots of laughs and some wonderful deep philosophical discussions.
- Playing a hilarious game called Dirty Minds. Lauren and I were in our element :)
- Sampling craft beers at the local brewery including one with a gorgeous honey flavour.
- Visiting the Berrima market where we met a gorgeous Samoyed dog from Siberia whose fur is used to make beautiful, warm beenies.
- Strolling around the historical section of Berrima. It's a beautiful town with the most visually aesthetic jail in all of Australia.
- It turned out to be a super-spreader event! JC, Juni, Jassenka, Kim and Derek all came down with Covid. I dodged the bullet - the 2nd time. The first time was Christina, my housemate, getting it, Martin and I both avoided it that time.