Nuriootpa SA

Last night, we arrived here in Nuriootpa in the Barossa Valley-not far to relocate, but very different from Meningie. The vines are looking beautiful and are probably ready to be picked. The sky is blue and we might get our first really warm weather in a week.

Our site is great. A drive through on plenty of grass (the dog loves that) bordering the local show grounds (last night at dusk, the galahs were like fleas on a dog over there eating seeds or something). My only problem is I had to pack a snack to get to the toilets in the middle of the night. I'm torn between wanting to stay a night or two extra or going ASAP because of the toilet trek. It's a good lesson to park as close as we can to the amenities and walk to enjoy the view!

We've been out shopping this morning in Nuriootpa and Tanunda and at the suggestion of Pam we met in Meningie, we visited all the op shops (charity or thrift shops to some of you) we could find. We came away with a few good books, home grown tomatoes, home made tomato and plum sauces and marmalade. We could have had heaps of fresh produce and condiments, but I stopped myself getting too carried away as there are many more op shops to be visited. I just ate some of the tomatoes on toast for my lunch, something I've loved since I was a kid(even before I knew it was called "bruscetta" and was trendy and expensive!)

Day 2 in Nurioopta, we visited a "whispering wall" at a dam on the way to Birdwood. Russ and Devi walked to the other end (about 180 metres) then I just spoke to them in a normal voice. It really confused Devi apparently when I called her, but she couldn't see me to know where my voice was coming from. It was amazing. Then we spent a few hours at the National Auto Museum in Birdwood. It's pretty big and we only got a pretty quick look in the 3 hours. I really enjoyed seeing all the cars dad owned as I grew up-Morris Minor, Austin Major, Worsley, Austin 1800 and then all the cars my boyfriends had-EH, HR, Torana, Falcons and Valiants. There was also an impressive collection of vintage and classic bikes which we enjoyed.

The dog (who we think is a bit anti social) has made herself a friend. Vinny a 3 year old who is staying near us has really loved throwing her ball and playing on the oval with her for the last couple of days. It's fun to watch them. He wouldn't go to the pool with his mother until they'd had a play today.

Tonight, we are having a mix of duck and veal, turkey bratwurst and beef with mustard and fresh herbs sausages we bought from a local butcher. As usual, I'm looking forward to my dinner!

Some of you might know I was having e-mail problems, if so the e-mail address janandrussroundoz@hotmail.com is now working fine.