We are enjoying a short break, a few days in Newcastle with Margaret’s mother. Tomorrow we return home to Narrabri and a busy schedule.

Yesterday we had to go to Shelly Beach, near The Entrance, to pick up a pram (of course). While there, we went for the obligatory beach trip. The water was wonderfully refreshing and crystal clear. Best of all, no sharks to be seen!

Shelly Beach is more southerly than we usually venture on these trips so we wondered if our pastor friend Tony Rae was in the vicinity. He normally hangs out at the southern end of the Central Coast, but I texted him anyway. Despite being officially on holidays, he was in a meeting with his church’s business manager just 5 minutes from where we were! We had a great time chatting about all kinds of stuff before going our separate ways.

Margaret had been checking out online “For Sale” ads and had come across a big play gym not far from Grandma’s place. A $1500 setup was on offer at just $100. What a bargain! How could you not buy it? The play gym in its destructed form fills up our iMax so it may be a while before we can get it all home.

This afternoon we caught up with our old friends Dan & Sue Armstrong who now live near the centre of Newcastle in an upmarket apartment complex. Dan & Sue are special people who have spent their lives serving the Lord including preaching the gospel in remote Aboriginal communities. We spent three hours there but the time flew past. Sue said that it is a joy having us visit because we always give them a lift in their emotions- we feel the same about them. In many ways they exemplify a life sold out to Jesus.

It’s been a good few days, catching up with friends and just relaxing. Now we feel refreshed and energised for a new year in God’s own country.