Woolstock 15, Feathertop, Melbourne, and MacK turns four

This post is more a catch up than detailing a specific event. I will get back into the swing of things, but it is proving to be a difficult task so far in 2015. One of the highlights of the year so far has been Woolstock. We went up to the farm for a thoroughly enjoyable weekend, where much wine was drunk, but very little work was done. On the bright side, Riley McGlinchey drove up from Pucka to spend the weekend with us, and Dave Kennedy met us at the farm.

The music was really good, but what was even better was being able to sneak away to the house and lie in hammocks, where we could still listen to the music. Ljuba again brought maple infused vodka, but this time went to sleep clutching the bottle far too tightly for anyone to get any! 

 I have shared some of our sunsets before, and they just seem to get better. When we built the house, we would sit in front of the shed and watch the sun disappear over the horizon. The sunsets were inspirational. In fact, Peter told us he was a bit disappointed in the house once the frames were up. Apparently it interfered with his nightly viewing of the sunset!

Every Woolstock starts with the percussion frenzy!

The theme was born to be wild - Jane and I rode in on the bike. MacK became the self appointed guardian, and wouldn't let anyone near it!

 The next morning MacK took Dave to the beach for a refreshing swim.

 This one is a bit out of order, but never mind. This is the view from Mt Feathertop in Victoria's High Country. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to walk from Harrietville to Mt Hotham, including the Feathertop summit. All up the walk is a steady 22 km. The first 11 km are uphill, with gradients in excess of 38%. It was a really good day out, and a reminder of how much fun you can have in the great outdoors.

 I don't normally post about work, but will make an exception here. On 21 March there was a series of parades held across Australia commemorating the end of Australia's campaign in Afghanistan (Operation Slipper). All those who served in Afghanistan marched. This is me in the hotel, getting ready to step out, and meet up with class mates and comrades. I had told MacK I wouldn't be able to wave to him, but couldn't help myself when I heard him call out "There's MY DADDY!"

 MacK and a mate waiting for us all to march past on our way to the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. The speeches were poor - no recognition of the mental injuries being suffered by returned veterans, and a lack of respect throughout. The Governor sounded like he was half pissed, and couldn't get names or awards correct (apparently we have awards for gallery - not gallantry - in Australia).

Later in the afternoon we went for a walk through the Shrine gardens. This lovely tribute is to the widows. We had a great time until MacK was stung by a bee. At least we know he isn't allergic to them!

 We had MacK's 4th birthday party in Canberra over the weekend. As you can see, he wanted a pirate theme. The kids had a great time with treasure hunts and games of 'pin the tail on the parrot'.

 It was lovely to be able to get a picture of MacK with his god parents - who both love our little boy dearly!

And there you are. Almost up to date.