Well, after a week of discussion - shall we go; shall we stay - we decided that another trip to Australia was the thing to do! Two things - waking up yesterday to gale force winds, rain, hail and a chilly 40F degrees here in Seattle, AND on that very same day receiving a postcard from our good friend Jim, in the Blue Mountains convinced us that this was meant to be.

We are so lucky - and so grateful - that our friends, Malle and Leo Hannibal are able and willing to stay in our home and take care of the babies - Mackie and Jaycie - during our 6 week trip. The Hannibals have been very flexible and supportive as we've gone through the decision making process, and we appreciate it more than we can say. So, once again, with Malle and Leo firmly in charge, we can go away without any worries, and know that we will come home to 2 extremely happy kitties. ( I actually think the cats are a little peeved when we return - they are really attached to the Hannibals!)

Once we'd booked the airline tickets (whoopee for frequent flyer miles!) we found a great deal on a serviced apartment not far from where we stayed last year. It's nice to know that we have a place to stay for the first week - not too far from Centennial Park for cycling, and near enough to the city for convenience. So now, it's on to packing and getting those bike boxes ready to go!