My GPS took us round via Stockton and the Williamstown jets were out and about, thundering through the sky - singular stunts and formation flying. Impressive and scary.We stayed at Aqua Mantra in Port Stephens - very nice, with a good pool.
While the bowler went for a practice I tried out the pool and then wandered down to the Marina and along the beach.
Looking across toward the breakwater I could see some dolphins nosing around. A couple of guys were fishing off the breakwater, and the dolphins joined in. It wasn't long before the men gave up fishing and got their cameras out, very entertaining. On the same little sandy stretch of beach a large group were learning to kayak, and a determined swimmer hugged the shoreline, up and down in the sparkling clear water.
Out early the next day for a big program of bowls. My bowler played some great bowls, but a few early ones advantaged the opponent, and in the end the gap was too big to close. It was good to see my sister and her husband who popped over from Tea Gardens to watch our bowler and have lunch. The bowls comp was a knock-out, so we headed home a day early. Mrs Bowler was proud that he had reached the finals but pleased to have him back. J had given me some tips in case the game was tense and the bowler needed "lightening up". At one stage I called out "J is doing her thing" and was asked "what do you mean?". "Making you laugh". He mentioned I could have chosen better words - the baby is due any day and I must have made his heart race in a non-bowls helpful way.
My car was glad to get out of the garage and have a good stretch, but I can't say I enjoyed the drive. I prefer a more leisurely middle lane approach. It is always good to have a rest stop at the twin service stations near Wyong. Oliver's is great. Love their healthy fast food, and such a nice name too.
