I've had a wonderful few weeks in Perth. I've caught up with many old friends and had some great yarns over coffee. It's so good to be with like-minded people who like to discuss matters of mutual interest in some depth. Being with fellow writers has inspired me to get on with the Trilogy. I'm nearly 40,000ww into the new book one and have had useful critiques from several writerly friends.

Through a family history site, I've also met a new cousin for the first time. Andrew is my second cousin, being descended from Emanuel and Martha FLAVELL who married in Dudley, England, in 1873. Andrew's family immigrated in 1958 on the Stratheden, the same ship my lot arrived on in 1952! His had the sense to get off in Perth, however, and have stayed in WA ever since. I had a lovely coffee-chat with Andrew and his wife and his dad, too, last weekend. His dad, now in his eighties, remembers my father and grandfather as well as Manny and Martha in person! How strange that we've lived in Perth so long without knowing each other! However, we intend to swap family photos and stay in touch now. Family history is a super hobby as you meet such nice people:-)

Did I mention this is the best place in the world to live? It's just such a darned shame that property prices have gone up so much that many low-income people such as aged pensioners (like me) can't afford to live here any more. We are moving to the country in droves, apparently, and with a one bedroom flat in Perth likely to cost you over $200pw there's small wonder. I'm feeling around for more house-sitting so I can stay in Perth a while longer or come back next year! If nothing turns up now I fly out on Wednesday 11 July:-( A bright spot: son Scott is back after five weeks in the States and I'm looking forward to spending time with family over the weekend.

Happy Fourth of July to all my Stateside friends!