Thursday: Canberra

Well, the final day has arrived and the Canberrans have saved some of the best till last.

The first treat of the day was to see Pop's beloved Special drive out of Ian's garage with a throaty purr and show of her glory to all and sundry on the street. The whole family congregated to watch her drive off and wait for their turn behind the wheel, Anne being the first. How Special was that!

Everyone had a turn with kiddies piling into the back seat whenever there was a change over.

The car was immaculate inside and sounded perfect as well, and even the exterior was polished up in spite of her old paint.

After that excitement we all moved down to the lake for a combo morning coffee/lunch, with the sun alternately warming us and deserting us. The little children were all getting very very tired, but the older ones played on every minute they could.

After lunch Iantook us on a bit of tour of Canberra, including Ainslie Church of Christ (hasn't changed one bit) and TJ's Tyres

Lastly, into Canberra Tech where we were hosted by two of the senior management team who graciously showed us all around the very large campus. The tour ended in the restaurant, which they said was one of Dad's ideas, and where a very lovely afternoon tea was prepared . The children received 'show bags' with hats and calculators, easter eggs and other goodies, a suitable reward for their endless patience at being dragged around adult destinations.

By now it was 3:30 and the Cutchie juniors were ready to head for home, all exhausted. As I write they should be nearing home and their own beds.

Once gone the older generation took to quieter entertainment: a cuppa, newspaper, book and ride around the lake for Anne & Joy. Beautiful autumn trees to be admired.

The evening ended most suitably with us watching Pride and Prejudice, the latest version, and all of us quoting our favourite parts and laughing at favourite characters.