Townsville – 8 Feb

Greg and Tom both headed off to Tom’s workplace; James Cook University.  Tom put in a good portion of a day’s work and Greg attended meetings that Tom had set up with colleagues.  While the fellows were at work, I went for a wonderful run, whereby I nearly melted in the heat.  But the interesting thing was a “Headstart” van that arrived at the house next door to pick up a preschooler!  Jessie and I went to Castle Hill shopping mall where we had wonderful brunch at Jamaicablue (breakfast frittata, side salad, and a delicious latte) and did a bit of shopping. I purchased a lovely sleeveless t-shirt which will also serve as a beach cover-up.

Tom took Greg and I up to Mount Stuart Scenic Reserve where we enjoyed a fantastic lookout over the entirety of Townsville.  It was quite breathtaking.  Apparently, 6,000 years ago, one could not see the ocean from this vantage point.  On the way back, Greg helped Tom to pick up his car from the repair shop.  Tom led the way in a rental with Greg following in Tom’s car.  My job was to make sure Greg stayed on the “correct” side of the road.  But my second job became clear when I would also need to remind Greg that the turn signal was on the right, windshield wipers on the left!  All went smoothly, with Tom taking over behind the wheel of his own car after dropping off the rental.  Whhhhew!  And of course, as Murphy sometimes rules things, wouldn't Tom's car get dinged and need a repair right when he was expecting guests?

 Greg and Tom - cousins

Nancy baked a wonderful ground beef pie on which she created a happy face out of dough.  It was very delicious.  We had another wonderful evening of conversation getting to know the girls better and appreciating their strengths which will certainly lead them both to exciting futures.  
 

 Awesome Nancy

Amazing Ruth and her Mom Jessie