Back on deck....

Hello there,

Where to start?  I'm rusty !!

Been away a long time and the only way I can sum up the reasons for my absence is to quote Miranda Hart when she says "Life, eh?"  

The old brain cogs took a little while to work out how to drive this blog posting again - it does help if passwords are kept to hand, for one thing ;D)

Anyway, here we are and I hope that all is well with you out there. So, off I go ....

We're enjoying the approach of Summer... lots of sunny days but not the heat.  The grass has all just been mowed so the Blackbirds are out pecking around finding little treats for their babies:

Our resident Blue Tongue Lizard is also out and about taking in the sun - but not as actively as the Blackbirds:

She/he has become so tame that as long as we walk slowly past her she'll stay put.  I was an arm's length away for this photo today.

Painting is still one of my favourite hobbies and I'll include a few of my efforts.  I enjoy painting cards for the family - in fact, I thoroughly enjoy it. It's nice to add that personal touch.

and finally, the painting I'd started  (see this post) before I abandoned my poor blog:

Cheerio for now and thanks for your visit :D) 

Happy Surprises!!

**Surprise Number One**

You may recall in an earlier post:  "Gems and Frills" when I wrote about C, one of our dear granddaughters, being on a well earned trip to Paris.

Recently, we were thrilled to have a lovely family visit and catch up, when C so lovingly surprised us with some souvenirs... gorgeously delicious French chocolate and a beautiful painting.

The choccie has gone and the painting takes pride of place:

Here's some more photos of C's trip...

This is what it was like when trying to see the Mona Lisa!   


A different view of the Eiffel Tower:

Here's C enjoying her baguette, spread with Vegemite she'd brought from Australia,  for lunch in front of the Eiffel Tower:

... and finally, this is the lovely shop where C bought our delicious chocolate:

A great adventure indeed, and thanks dearest C for thinking of us - Hugs and Love, Grandma and Papa xoxoxo

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**Surprise Number Two**

Today in the mail, this little sweetie arrived:

She's a Dotee, and her name is Aurora, isn't she gorgeous!!!  She was sent to me by Vee who's been a blog-friend for quite a few years now.

Vee makes beautiful dolls, bears and now Dotees and I'd happened to comment on how beautiful they were...

Here's a closeup of Aurora's pretty little face and curly curls:

I just know you'll love to see all of Aurora's friends, you can find them here "Vee's The Bearister Blogspot"

Thanks very much Vee, I'm thrilled to bits at your kindness and totally wowed, once more, at your beautiful creation.

P.S. I have to say, that Tinnie Bear has been beside himself with joy at Aurora's arrival.  I managed to get this quick snap as he was making her comfy after her long flight all the way from Canada.  Firm friends already!

Cheers now :D)