Perth

The Kombi was dropped off at the beauty salon as we set off for a day dedicated to love, laughter, and family. While the Kombi was getting her nails done, Daph and Ern hopped on a train into the city to take in the delights of Perth City.

Perth must be the neatest, most organised, well-kept city we have ever experienced. We did a spot of vinyl record shopping (as we do), picked up some Marvin Gaye, and took him for a walk around Elizabeth Quay and Kings Park Botanical Garden. Our feet were aching as we reached the end of the Kokoda Track, leading up into the gardens. Once we reached the end, we were greeted by the most stunning ANZAC Memorial at the top. Daph felt humbled and guilty for complaining about her sore big toe after the relatively easy climb compared to what the soldiers had to do on the real Kokoda Trail.

Touristy stuff done, we headed back to Fremantle to meet up with Ern’s sister and brother-in-law for a highly entertaining whirlwind tour of Fremantle followed by a delicious Italian meal, where the conversation, love, and laughter flowed freely.

As crazy and disjointed as it may be, family is love. And your family is whomever you choose it to be. Blood or not. They are in your life for a reason and continue to be so because you choose them. Between Daph and Ern, there is a myriad of tangents in the family trees. Each branch has the most amazing stories, people, and experiences that have moulded us to become the best we can be. And it’s all wrapped up with a tonne of love.

And then Daph ended the day saying a tearful final farewell to one of those family members you choose. The beautiful Shirley has jumped on the “Magical Mystery Tour” bus and set off for her next adventure. She was with us this morning, smiling down on us through a spectacular double rainbow as we set off for today’s journey further north.

Hop in, Shirley. We’re going for a ride.[1]

[1] I had received a message from Ted that the beautiful Shirley had passed away that day. My heart was breaking, but she showered our day with rainbows wherever we went. Instagram: #myshirleysunshine