Wow, that went fast. Our two weeks in Melbourne simply flew by and before I know it we’ve already been back in London a week.
It was fantastic being back home for a little while. Seeing my family and friends was just the tonic I needed having hit the “I’ve been away 6 months and am getting homesick” point. There was not enough time to catch up with everyone I had on my list – so apologies to those I didn’t get to see – I simply ran out of time.. As you may remember the motivation for this trip was to spend time with family – and this I did. My Dad is doing better than he was, but is still not out of the woods yet. Some quality time with the fam was good for the soul.
I spent a couple of days wandering around the city, and I found myself really enjoying being a tourist in my home town. Olivia gave me more than one strange look when she saw me taking photos of Flinders St station, Swanston St walk, the Yarra river or some generic streetscape that caught my eye. I was great.
The trip home also gave the opportunity to visit some of my favorite dining haunts. The Vietnamese place in Footscray that does this grilled chicken on rice (Yes Eric – it CAN count as a breakfast 
My favorite Greek restaurant – Pireaus Blues in Brunswick St. Kim Chi – Excellent Korean in Carnegie. Alaysa – Tuskish in Sydney Rd. And of course, my old beloved La Porchettas in Reservoir. The list goes on… but I’m sure you get the picture.
For those who have been to our place in Footscray, since leaving Melbourne, the back fence and one of the side fences have been replaced. Olivia’s parents have also done a great job on the garden. Yes, things can actually grow in the rock hard soil we left behind. So all in all the backyard has been completely transformed and is looking great.
Before I forget, I just wanted to mention that on our flight from Singapore to Melbourne – we got upgraded to business class. It appears as though Singapore Airlines had oversold the flight due to all the people coming in to Melbourne for the Australian Open. It’s nice to see how the other side lives.. “Another cocktail Mr Polli?” Don’t mind if I do…….
