PART V

Chapter 15 - Before the Balloon Goes Up

We are again welcomed into Sydney. As soon as we get to Denis' house his daughter Nikki and her two daughters come by to kiss us a "Welcome Home". I give Nikki an introductory lesson in Monkey Shoulder and it's all great fun.

On Wednesday it's up and about for yet another tour of the area. Denis lives right by the water so first it's a tour of the beach front neighborhoods (magnificent houses) and then it's down to the beach itself; Cronulla Beach, a surfing destination. The weather is perfect and Kristy and I walk along the beach and wade into the surf, and marvel at all that is Australia.

We go have a look at more motorcycles, one in particular, and then it's back to the house for a snack. We're soon off again; this time to Olympic Park, the site of the Sydney Olympic Games of 2000. We sit in the shadow of the stadium and have coffee with our friends Vic and Lyn who have come in from the Shire to kiss us again before we leave town.

After a couple of hours chat with them we head back to the house to get ready for the Farewell dinner. Denis assembles his entire family for us at the best steakhouse in all of Sydney; actually maybe even better than that because while I consider myself an expert when it comes to eating steak, the prime rib I had was the very best I've ever eaten, ever. There was Denis, Kristy and I, Nikki and Adam, Sally and Wayne, Tamika, Layla, Emma, and Kate for a great night of wine, food and conversation. Kristy and I thank you all so much for making us feel a part of your family. We love you all and can't wait for the chance to see you all again.

Then it's off to bed to prepare for the heel click.