the traveller returns

A little while back Peta Pledger featured on this blog, following which I became the proud owner of this top. It has become a real wardrobe staple for me, one of those things that doesn't often get put away because as soon as its been washed and ironed I wear it again.

Peta also does a gorgeous range of "Rocker Girl Jane" dresses which I have been eyeing off for ages. I recently bit the bullet and bought this lovely black and white one. I was a bit nervous as I find it hard to get sizing right with dresses, but armed with my measurements and Peta's help, we got it spot on.

The cricketer returned from his end of season trip pretty much unscathed. Being the good wife I am, the boys and I ventured out the airport to collect him. It was a sad and sorry bunch that wandered off the plane - a stark contrast to the high spirits of the pre dawn departure party a few days prior.

The backpacker accommodation lived up (or down) to expectations, with its eight bed / one bathroom dormitory style accommodation *shudder*.

I am pretty much sure its the first time the husband has returned from a trip, whether it be business or pleasure, with a suitcase full of mouse poo.

As a welcome home and to continue the liquid lunch theme of the previous few days, I made up a big batch of his favourite Lamb Shank and Vegie Soup.

3 trimmed lamb shanks
1 bag dried soup mix (contains split pea, barley, etc.)
2 large carrots
1 large onion
2 sticks celery
1 parsnip
1 turnip
2 cloves crushed garlic
2 bay leaves

Grate or chop all the vegies and add to a stock pot with the shanks, soup mix, garlic and bay leaves. Cover with water (about 4 litres). Simmer for at least two hours, skimming foam from the top as required.
Too easy!