Mauve Pearls

Monday, 6 August 2012

We decided to have high tea the night before Carlene and Rex left, so among other delights supplied by us all, I produced a warm chocolate cake which very quickly disappeared. The recipe proved very popular, as well.

We said goodbye to Carlene and Rex on Saturday morning and then late in the day we welcomed Keith, Jacqui, Kate, Eva and Lucy.

Saturday morning was taken up checking out apartments for Diane – a great way to fill in a day, actually. We explained to each receptionist why we were asking and were immediately shown through various standards of accommodation. We eventually gave the thumbs up to 181 The Esplanade (also at that street address, strangely); we even managed to negotiate a much better deal than could be had from the internet. Diane consulted with Cam, rang and made a reservation. I’m sure they will be happy, both with the standard and view over the bay.

Yesterday we enjoyed some time with Eva and family, skyped David while they were here and both families enjoyed catching up. Sunday evening, we combined for a barbecue in the camp kitchen and some travel experience note comparing.

Today, it was up bright and early for everyone as the new awning has arrived (again!) and the caravan had to be at the repairers before 8.00 am. (AAMI arranged with a repairer in Cairns to replace our storm damaged awning; he received an awning from his supplier but the protective cardboard outer tube was shredded on arrival and the awning had been cut in a number of places. Therefore, it was returned to the supplier and a replacement arrived in Cairns last Friday). We arrived at the appointed time, backed in and the old awning was promptly removed (we didn’t even have to unhitch, it would be replaced while we waited). When the new awning was removed from the “perfect” cardboard tube, it was found to be the original awning, complete with cuts! The repairer was not happy – or words to that effect. The old awning was put back on our caravan and we were back on site before 9.00 am. Needless to say, everyone thought we had left!

As it has been another beautiful day (about 29 degrees), we decided to drive to Palm Cove for a walk along the beach and some lunch, as well as check out the boutiques with their resort wear (only to be worn at Palm Cove or similar, definitely not Hobart). Of course, Cat insisted on coming as well, despite crocodiles inhabiting the water. We decided to check out one of the local jewellery shops and Cat was greeted enthusiastically by the shop owner, patted and made a fuss over, then given a pearl necklace to keep. The lady was very impressed to know that “royalty” had visited her shop, after learning that Cat had had morning tea at Buckingham Palace last year. However, he is a little concerned about what people may say about the mauve pearls – are they a little feminine perhaps?