Sunday, 30 April 2023

Sunday Selections #626

 

 

 
Sunday Selections was originally brought to us by Kim, of Frogpondsrock, as an ongoing meme where participants could post previously unused photos languishing in their files. 

Huge thanks to Cie who gave me this wonderful Sunday Selections image. 

The meme was then continued by River at Drifting through life.  Sadly she has now stepped aside (though she will join us some weeks), and I have accepted the mantle. 
 
The rules are so simple as to be almost non-existent.  Post some photos under the title Sunday Selections and link back to me. Clicking on any of the photos will make them embiggen.
 

I usually run with a theme. Last week I mentioned that we planned to go on a cruise on our lake to see the autumnal colours reflected in the water. Sadly we were foiled in that plan. On the days that cruise ran the weather boffins predicted buckets of rain. They were right too. Instead we took a cruise in the opposite direction to have a brief visit to our Governor General's gardens. As is not uncommon, LOTS of photos follow.

We were lucky and had a mostly sunny day. In addition, we took the last cruise to the GG's gardens until September - when we will go again.

For some reason known only to itself blessed blogger has changed the order of my photos.





This yellow box on the side of the Governor General's residence is estimated to be some 350 years old.


The owl perches on the old stable block - which now houses the GG's Rolls Royce - which we didn't see.


The official entrance to the GG's home.


A stylised statue of a Brolga - one of our native birds.



Having to watch where I walk sometimes allows me to see things I might have missed otherwise.





The somewhat scruffy looking tree in the centre of this photo is a cutting from a tree at Lone Pine Gallipoli

 
You will have to embiggen the photo above to read it - it was in the Bravery Garden and is homage to the acts of bravery that went unrecognised.


Statues of the emblems of our Coat of Arms, the emu and the kangaroo. I liked that they appeared to be watching the photographers.



This naked nymph is at the landing stage. Apparently the crown above her originally held Queen Elizabeth the second's symbol - but it was deemed (I suspect incorrectly) that she wouldn't want to be associated with the brazen wench.







I love the way the sunlight sparkled on the water.











And the first shall be last. This is the ferry we cruised on.

We only saw a fraction of the extensive gardens in the brief time we were there, but hope to return in Spring.  Kangaroos have made the Governor General's grounds their home but there was lawn moving under way while we were there and they were conspicuous by their absence. If the weather is kind to us we might make a trip in the opposite direction next week to see the Manchurian Pears reflected in the lake.

I hope your week sparkles too.

On the cat front:  Batty did get the all clear to rejoin the family though he still has some healing to do (bone needs to grow around his implants). There was some hissing, some spitting and some very half hearted whacking at each other for less than twenty four hours. They have now settled down very well.

 

107 comments:

  1. As usual, your photos are a feast for the eyes! Gentle hugs for Batty. x

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    1. Bea: Thank you - Batty is doing pretty well - and pushing Odie away from food again.

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  2. Oh, cats!
    This made me laugh! "the weather boffins predicted buckets of rain."
    We're having buckets for the next week!
    A lovely trip and thank you for sharing it.

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    1. Jenn Jilks: Buckets wasn't quite their term but buckets we got. In our case welcome buckets.

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  3. Eucalyptus melliodora. I had to look up Yellow Box. I assumed it was the tree after I didn't see any yellow boxes laying around out front of the house. 😁

    "blogger has changed the order of my photos." I ran into this one time when uploading more than one photo. I seems that blogger will upload them in the order you click on them to be uploaded no matter where they are on the page.

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    1. Mike: I am sorry. I should have put the tree's full name. Blogger DIDN'T post the photos in the order I clicked on them. It chose a new order all of its own. Hiss and spit.

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    2. It seems... !!!!!!!!! Typos!!!!! 🤪

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    3. Mike: I knew what you meant - which is what matters.

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  4. Great news about Batty, your description of his antics was very endearing. Glad he is allowed back into the fold and that everyone is once again calm. Fantastic photos from the Governor General's gardens. His home looks enormous! I love all those trees and I would be taking photos of the mushrooms too. One of nature’s many works of art. The sculptures are so interesting and I particularly enjoyed the emu and kangaroo. This is the first time I have seen a memorial to unsung heroes. Very touching, so glad they added it in this beautiful garden. Those water scenes made me want to step into your photo. Thank you for all these wonderful photos, and I am looking forward to your Manchurian Pears when you get the opportunity.

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    1. DeniseinVA: The Governor General's residence IS big, but it is an official building as well as his residence. I really liked the memorial to unsung heroes - there were other memorials there but that one touched me most.

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  5. I was searching for the "yellow box" for a couple of seconds...and then I woke up! D'uh! :)

    A lovely wander through the beauty of your city...thanks for taking me along.

    I'm glad to hear Batty is mending....he and Odie will be sharing lots of tales now, I bet! Take good care, EC...have a very nice week ahead. :)

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    1. Grrrrrr! The above comment is mine. I wish blogger or google, or whatever, would stop switching to "Anonymous" without my permission!!!

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    2. Lee: Blogger tries to make me anonymous quite often too. I currently watch carefully as I comment. Batty and Odie are getting on fairly well now, but jealousy rears its head. They each think the other is getting better pats, better food...

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  6. Dear EC
    Thank you for sharing your visit - lots to enjoy. I like all the sculptures especially the roo and emu. Even the brazen wench - she's got it and she's flaunting it!
    It's good to hear about Batty. I hope you are recovering too.
    Have a good week
    Best wishes
    Ellie

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    1. Ellie Foster: It really was a delightful outing and we had beautiful weather for it too. I really liked the sculptures too and we intend to go back in September to see other gardens in bloom.

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  7. The lake and hills in the scenery are surely impressive to even contemplate this is someone else's garden!

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    1. roentare: The hills are across the lake from the Governor General's official residence but he certainly has spectacular views and gardens. Not many of us need eight full time gardeners to care for our home surrounds.

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  8. It really looks as if you had a wonderful day! I loved seeing so many trees, and especially enjoyed the 'roo and the emu watching the visitors. Glad to hear Batty is doing well - and I hope you are too, EC.
    I was walking through a local park on the 25th, and couldn't help thinking back to being in Gallipoli 2 days before Anzac Day, several years ago now. It was very special, and I will always remember how it felt to be there.
    Have a good week and take care of yourself.

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    1. Alexia: I am sure it did feel special to being in Gallipoli - and any time really, but particularly at that time. The trees are lovely aren't they, and the volunteers who showed us round stressed that they do their very best to preserve them.

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  9. Great photos as usual. I love the garden figures of the emu and large kangaroo. That is a huge mansion. It must need a lot of people just to maintain that building.

    We are slowly moving into green lawns and spring flowers at this time of year while you are moving toward fall colors.
    Today was a really nice sunny and warm day and I managed to get a little bit of garden work done but got tired quickly.

    I'm glad that the cats are returning back to their old selves and that Batty is healing.
    Take care. Hugs,
    Julia

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    1. Julia: It is an official building and I am sure it does take quite a number of people to keep it in order. They have, for example, eight full time gardeners. I could do with their assistance in our garden - and I won't mention the inside of the house. Mind you, I will never have to entertain or house foreign dignitaries either.

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  10. River Fairchild - Your photos are welcome no matter what order blogger chooses. I wonder if it’s shuffling them according to pixel size?
    Glad to hear both cats are sort of settling into a routine but it would be nice if Odie became more assertive with the food issue.
    I’m so glad you got out and about to enjoy your excursion!
    Hugs to you, my dear friend.

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    1. River Fairchild: I have less than no idea what gets into blogger's head. Odie is 'sometimes' assertive. Which is a good thing, even if Batty doesn't think so. Odie is a slim thing and Batty needs to lose weight - which will help his healing too. Huge hugs.

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  11. A beautiful tour and even better photos, order notwithstanding. And, good news that Batty is back in the line-up and holding his own.

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    1. Joanne Noragon: It really was a lovely tour and I am so glad we went. Batty is more than holding his own.

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  12. The Governor drives a Rolls?? That is surprising to me.

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    1. Sandi: As I understand it the Rolls is used to pick up foreign dignitaries rather than for day to day use. Which explains why I cannot remember seeing it on the local streets.

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  13. Such wonderful pictures and am so glad to hear that the kitties can now get reacquainted and hopefully all will be well! Thinking of you and wishing you all the very best. Virtual hugs galore.

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    1. DJan: Thank you. We all appreciate your virtual hugs.

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  14. Glad Batty is back in the fold again.

    The grounds are beautiful. Beautifully designed and manicured. Thank you for taking us along!

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    1. Marie Smith: We gather that each of the Governor General's adds his (and once her) stamp to the grounds. I will be interested to see what this one does. Batty is making his presence felt and is undoubtedly glad to have the run of the house again.

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  15. "half-hearted whacking at each other" that made me smile. all your photos are lovely but I really like the sparkling sunlight on the water. I always wonder why the important people feel the need for such huge homes. The cost of running them must be sky-high.

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    1. River: In this case the taxpayers are responsible for the upkeep and the security costs. I really liked seeing the sparkling sunlight too.

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  16. I'm so glad that Batty is coming around!

    My favorite photo is that weeping willow dipping in the water.

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    1. Lon Anderson: Another new blog I see. The willows thrive beside the lake and I think they are beautiful too.

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  17. Good to read the pussy is improving.
    Love all your photos of your cruise, very interesting EC. Thanks for sharing.

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    1. Margaret D: We are very glad Batty is improving but now have the hard task of putting him on a diet. The cruise on the lake was lovely.

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  18. Hi Sue – what's the Yellow Box for – is it an airconditioning unit? I love the crane (Brolga) … while yes … looking down at the path for our feet and seeing all nearby … the long tall poplars I love – we had them at home.

    What an interesting nod to an important historical battle (Lone Pine Gallipoli) – and then the Bravery Garden – so thoughtful and thought provoking. Then the Coat of Arms statues … how lovely.

    Two fascinating trips to make … the Governor General's grounds look to be really interesting and informative.

    So pleased Batty is back and settling down, happy to be back in the family … good to see the news and to hear from you … cheers Hilary

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    1. Hilary Melton-Butcher: I am sorry. The Yellow Box is a type of tree and that particular tree was in situ long before white people arrived in Australia. I love that it is still there. Much of the Bravery Garden was very traditional but I loved that addition.
      Batty is currently demanding food - which since he had his dinner less than half an hour ago is a want that will not be met. We are sooooo cruel.

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  19. I was most impressed with the Governor General's garden and home. What a fabulous place. Loved the emu and roo sculptures. Of course, I am a huge fan of sculptures. That is a pretty amazing home. Glad you took us on this voyage. All your photos were lovely, and of course, the memorial to unsung heroes touched me.

    Glad to read that Batty has been given a full bill of health. Now to just get his weight down. Squiggles has a problem with portion control, too. Never had that problem before.

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    1. Bleubeard and Elizabeth: It is a pretty amazing place isn't it - and his views are incredible. Batty LOVES food and has been inactive for quite a while. Sadly extra weight on his joints does him no favours. A diet is a work in progress.

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  20. These are wonderful photos. What wonderful grounds, and such peaceful scenery. I liked so much the acknowledgement of unknown acts of bravery. What a concept!

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    1. Elizabeth Varadan: That memorial spoke loudly to me too. I am sure that there were lots of them. And that there still are.

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  21. I can safely say, Sue, that I have never had the chance to be associated with a brazen wench, but I'd be willing to give it a try if I had to! The gardens are lovely, as are the ones at our own GG's residence, Rideau Hall. And the occupants don't even need to get their hands dirty!

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    1. David M. Gascoigne: No the occupants don't need to get their hands dirty but our guides told us that many of the GG's wives chose to do so. Perhaps Miriam would like to be seen as a brazen wench from time to time?

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  22. Splendid gardens, as would be expected. Autumn is coming on apace, with rich colours developing.
    I liked the brazen wench and like Hilary, was foxed by the yellow box!

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    1. jabblog: It is my bad on the yellow box front. My apologies. I liked most of the sculptures but have a soft spot for the owl and the brolga.

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  23. That's definitely a very pleasant place to visit.

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    1. Caterina: It is. Once or twice a year the home itself is opened up for public inspection too. We should go sometime.

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  24. That sailboat on the sparkling water took my breath away.

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    1. Granny Annie: Wasn't it lovely. I was standing on the deck of the ferry at the time revelling in it.

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  25. That looks like a nice place to take a walk. I have always find trees such a wonder as they just grow whether you care for them to or not.

    Have a lovely day.

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    1. lissa: It was a lovely place to walk in. Trees benefit from care too and I am sure that these ones get it.

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  26. Lovely photos, whatever order they are supposed to be in. I think the royal family have had quite enough trouble from a brazen wench lately.

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    1. John "By Stargoose And Hanglands": I wasn't thinking about that brazen wench at the time... And yes, the description does seem to fit.

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  27. I love those statues, every single one. Australians do love art.

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    1. gigi-hawaii: My city has a LOT of public are - and I am very grateful. Mind you, the statues in the GG's garden don't really qualify as public art, but it was lovely to see them.

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  28. Batty's home, hooray! I'm glad to hear that it was a relatively short adjustment period.

    Your photos were lovely, too. I notice you often include art or sculpture in your Sunday Selections - is it common and easy to find in your area, or do you intentionally seek it out?

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    1. Diane Henders: Batty convalesced at home, but did so in seclusion, locked in the ensuite. We were very glad that the adjustment period was short. My city has a lot of public art which I delight in so the answer to your question is both. There is plenty of art AND I seek it out.

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  29. The trees are marvelous, well done EC, and the Brolga, without feathers, is like our Common Crane.

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    1. Bob Bushell: The trees are a joy. I can see what you mean about the brolga too. Some day I hope to see them dancing.

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  30. I'm glad you had such a lovely outing and wish you another.

    It's good to hear peace is being reestablished in the cat tribe.

    My selections are over here.

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    1. messymimi: Thank you. The cats haven't yet completely settled but are close to it. Which is lovely. It was indeed a delightful outing and I hope we get the other one too. As always I thoroughly enjoyed your selections.

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  31. Glad the kitties were able to get the hissing etc out of their system in less than 24 hours. That is pretty good! I am sure it is nice to have everyone back together again. :)

    Love the photos. Looks like a fun cruise- even if it is was different than your original plan. ~Jess

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    1. DMS ~Jess: It is great that both cats have the run of the house again. Needless to say when they didn't they both wanted desperately to be in the areas they were banned from.
      It was a delightful cruise - and we will take it again.

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  32. Well I certainly enjoyed my visit to these lovely gardens, your photographs were all lovely to see.
    I do agree with you, it is lovely how the sunlight sparkled on the water.
    Pleased the cats are once again settling down together.

    Wishing you a good new month of May.

    All the best Jan

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    1. Lowcarb team membr ~Jan: Thank you. You will be shocked and surprised that I took LOTS of photos. And will when next we visit too.
      I hope your May is a joy too.

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  33. That has to make life easier, to have them both free again. The windsurfer seems to have lost the wind from his sails. That is one fancy residence but very beautiful.

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    1. Strayer: It does make life much easier - and is better for the cats too. The wind was erratic that day but when it blew the windsurfers were going really fast.
      It is a fancy residence isn't it - and has spectacular views.

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  34. What a gorgeous place! As I will never be able to visit it in person, at least not in this lifetime, I was pleased to be able to do so through your impressive photos.
    I'm so out of it after the last two days of editing that I thought today was Sunday. So, as always, I'm a day late and a dollar short with my share.
    https://poetryofthenetherworld.blogspot.com/2023/05/our-responsibility.html

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    1. Ornery Owl of Naughty Netherworld Press and Readers Roost: It is a gorgeous place and the views are incredible. I often lose track of what day it is and am pleased to hear I am not alone. I am off to read your post now.

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  35. Lovely excursion. Three gardeners would do in Seanhenge. ;-)

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    1. Sean Jeating: I am not sure how many gardeners I need - more than the one and a bit that we have.

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  36. Who wouldn't want to be associated with that brazen wench?
    Be well and keep finding beauty wherever you bring it.

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    1. Rawknrobyn: The brazen wench doesn't float my boat - but I can (and do) appreciate her beauty.

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  37. So many wonderful photos.. looks like you had a marvelous time on the boat.

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    1. Hena Tayeb: Thank you. We had a delightful outing.

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  38. Yay Batty! Sounds pretty sibbish:)
    What a lovely tour. Thanks for letting us accompany you.
    Hope you are feeling perky and clicking your heels together. Okay, skip the clicking your heels together. I'll settle for perky:)
    Hugs, Sandra sandracox.blogspot.com

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    1. Sandra Cox: Thank you. Hugs received and reciprocated. Batty's (and my) next challenge is getting some weight off - and it WAS a lovely tour.

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  39. I volunteer to be Governor General as long as I can live in the home and enjoy the gardens. I even like a good brazen wench. My only stipulation is not having any responsitility, which includes not doing any work.

    Love,
    Janie

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    1. Janie Junebug: The Governor General works hard I believe but they are very well paid and have a beautiful workplace/home.

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  40. It looks like a beautiful autumn day with the sun low on the water.
    If I ever become queen, I will heartily endorse bronze wenches of all shapes and sizes.

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    1. kylie: You will be totally unsurprised to hear that I am also happy to endorse brazen wenches - and it was a lovely day. Really lovely.

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  41. Es un buen lugar, para pasear y respirar un buen aire, libre de contaminación.
    Muy lindas fotografías. Saludos.

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    1. VENTANA DE FOTO: We are lucky and there is very little air pollution in my city. I agree with you though, it is a lovely place to walk.

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  42. I'm glad you were feeling well enough to go and that the cats have settled down. Your photos as always are lovely to see.

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    1. e: Thank you. The cats are a work in progress. Every so often they revert to hissing and spitting. I hope you and Lukas are both doing well.

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  43. I'm glad Batty is doing well. Your pictures are so nice. It's nice to see places that I've never been to.

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    1. Mary Kirkland: Thank you. We are pleased that Batty continues to improve. As his bone grows we hope he will be able to jump again.

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  44. Awesome photos as always. Love the changing autumn colors. My Freddie and Morticia send their sincerest meows and well wishings to Batty. I hope you're having a great new week.

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    1. RasmaSandra: Thank you. Batty and Odie return Freddie and Morticia's good wishes.

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  45. Me alegro mucho de que halláis disfrutado de ese crucero, y de ese bonito y soleado día.
    Y gracias por tan lindo reportaje, siempre me gusta mucho observar de tu país los monumentos y mobiliario urbano, por su originalidad.
    Un cordial saludo, amiga.

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    1. Manuel: Thank you.. We are lucky and have a lot of street art. I will show some more pieces (I think) in the coming weeks.

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  46. Such a lovely set of photos! that statue of the Brolga is absolutely stunning! Thanks for sharing

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    1. Jemi Fraser: Thank you. I really liked the Brolga too.

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  47. I tell you what, I'm willing to be associated with the brazen wench if that helps any...

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    1. J Cosmo Newberry: I felt a bit sorry for the nymph tucked away where she is rarely seen. I am sure she would welcome an association with you.

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  48. What an absolutely lovely day on the water and in the gardens!

    Nothing like being around the water to soothe the soul.

    Gini and I continue to send wishes for healing and comfort in your direction.

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    1. Wally Jones: Thank you and Gini so much. Water is a true benison isn't it - moving or still.

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  49. The governor's residence is beautiful and surrounded by more beauty. Thanks for sharing your lovely photos, Sue! I enjoyed seeing the autumn colors. We're in the season of baby leaves here You captured a soft and fragile looking fungi when you were watching where you were walking. I so get that. I'm back to walking in our nearby park, and I was shocked at how easily I lose my balance compared to how I was last year. My trainer is putting me through a lot of balance things. I'm glad to hear that Batty is cleared to be back with the family. Hugs to you!

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    1. Fundy Blue: My exercise physiologist is putting me through a lot of balance training too, and I need it. Mind you, I was grateful to see that fungi.
      Batty is very happy to have the run of the house again and is busy claiming/reclaiming parts of it as his own. Have a wonderful week.

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  50. I'm so happy to hear that Batty and Odie have settled into each other's lives so quickly. Fingers crossed for steady, full healing for Batty.

    What beautiful grounds for the Governor General's residence. We have a GG as well, as you probably know, Canada being part of the Commonwealth too. Otherwise I wouldn't know what the office means!

    I'm glad you got out and about, and were able to share your photos with us. The sculptures were quite diverse in type, and all were good.

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    1. jenny_o: The GG's gardens are impressive - and I do envy him his views.
      I was glad to get out, though I paid for the excursion with increased fatigue. However, as part of my pain/gain equation it was worth it. Hugs to you, sister across the seas.

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  51. As much as I love trees (just today introduced to the amazing running tree) I loved your post! That statue of the Brolga...beautiful piece of art!

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    1. J C: I loved the Brolga too. So much. When we go back to these gardens in September (or so) I will try and get a close up of it.

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  52. Lovely lovely lovely. Everyone should watch where they walk, they will see many beautiful things.

    I could stand near water for ages, watching the sunlight dancing on it!

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    1. neena maiya (guyana gyal): I agree with you about water. If ever I become rich I would love a home on the water front.

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