Reluctant Move

After two nights at Bundeena, I moved on today very reluctantly. It was such a beautiful peaceful spot. A Sydney ferry runs every hour from Bundeena to Cronulla and then you can use other public transport to get into the city. So you could have a restful holiday and still get in a bit of shopping or sightseeing. Apparently the campsites are booked solid during the school holidays but in the off season, it is easy to get in. As I left today about thirty hikers, none looking less than 60 and some considerably older, arrived looking quite fit and feisty. About 10 minutes later I passed two small buses which I assume had dropped them somewhere not too far away.  They might have made a bit of a queue for the facilities.

I had a leisurely drive to Wollongong, stopping occasionally to admire the view but not tempted to take many photos as it was quite overcast. I met several people along the way. There had been four Dutch families at the National Park - none related. Then I met another Dutch couple when I stopped at a lookout area. A trio from Argentina and a Chinese couple from Canberra were admiring the view down onto the Wollongong coast at another viewing area.

As I had arranged, I met Catheryn at a school where she spends some time. After 18 years she has the job under control. I was impressed by the efficiency of her recording. After seeing the half-hearted results at some schools at home, it was interesting to see that kids in her system starting their second year at school were regarded as needing intervention at levels 10 -14. Considering that Cory is probably one of the best in his class at the same stage and is reading 10, it is obvious that our expectations for our prep kids aren't high.

Catheryn and Delyn and I went out for dinner and a few drinks. We popped in to Catheryn's place but I am staying with Delyn as her place is more accessible - and she has a huge comfortable bed in the guest room. (Remember the first rule of travel!) I don't expect to see her in the morning as she leaves for work far earlier than I stir.  Delyn has bought a house and is gradually transforming it from a typical 60s style with pink bath, blue checked laundry tiles etc into a very interesting, modern house. There is still masses of work to do but what is complete is beautiful.  The house is built around an atrium and the whole house is filled with light. Her artistic eye is obvious and, as she says, the house has good bones to make worthwhile all the effort needed.

The International Reading Recovery Convention next year is in Sydney. I wonder if we could get some of the old groups together, for socialising while others work. Some of our old trainers will be presenting. Could be fun!