Chapter 35

Pip n Annie go home.

The escapees returned to their nest.  Not quite in the state we left it, but we are so pleased to be home again.
We were met at the airport by our two gorgeous girls and son-in-law.  Qatar airlines were excellent, and we managed to get a few hours sleep.  London to Doha six hours, then Doha to Melbourne fourteen hours - how did they manage years ago with so many stops?  Pip remembers his first flight to Australia in 1963 when he stopped 7 times before arriving in Melbourne and it took 44 hours!
Within 15 hours of returning we were at a tribunal, trying to recover costs for damage to the new carpet we had laid just prior to departing, plus a few other items, from exiting tenants.  Very formal, but we walked away with 60% of replacement costs.  Better than nothing.  Now we have to fix it all up.
The next task was to unpack the numerous boxes that lined the walls in every room.  The girls had done the kitchen, so at least we could eat!   And interestingly, they used old photos to see where pictures, furniture and knick knacks were to be positioned.  Very clever!
The weather was a warm 35 deg, so we put away the thermals and put on shorts and sandals!  Expected forecast was four days of mid forty.....ouch! 
The garden was not up to my standard, but with a few weekends of toil, it should be looking great again.  I did miss my dirt and the garden recycling bin was full within days.
Our social calendar had started to fill fast, but it will be a bit one-sided for a while, as we don't have a dining room table, and the cupboards are bare.  Have to restock the pantry with everything a cook could possibly need.
The days after we arrived were spent reconnecting broadband, TV and phone lines, and temperaments being tested by useless utilities!  Many cups of tea before six and glasses of alcohol after six.
It's amazing how comfortable it feels again. 
Summer days, the Australian Open on the TV, BBQ burning, and outdoor life. Ahh!

That's it for this escape.  No more posts.  Back to the routine....

Love Annie xx