June Update

Hi Relies,
This blog/email has been inspired by Uncle Bryan's usually regular updates to those on his mailing list - which I so enjoy receiving!
I am 'on it' at least once a year - as some of us Walfords are, but I was remiss this last year.
Some were aware of our 'doings' through our blog, but here's a recent recap...
Last year was a fantastic year for us Tidy's - travelling NZ & some of Australia. A highly recommended way to spend a year of one's life - all 'care & no responsibility', but those responsibilities catch up & you have to face the responsibility of earning money on a regular basis, educating your children on a regular basis & looking after your property on a regular basis!
One definition of regular is 'conforming to some accepted rule'. I know some of us Walfords have a bit of trouble with 'regular'!
So, here we are, once again being 'regular'. It's not all bad - Nicholas & Catherine are certainly enjoying it, as they have said they'd travel for a few months, but not for a whole year. They are enjoying being back in their small school community& activities such as gymnastics, piano & hockey. John & I are enjoying Netball & Hash House Harriers, but we'd happily pack up tomorrow!
So, before we succumb again, what do you all think of a 'family reunion'? Don't those words make some families cringe? I don't think so for us!
I was inspired recently when I came across a photo of us 'cousies' outside Phil & Jenny's place (sadly Minus Bryan's kids) when we were 3-6 years old. I got to thinking we were due for a catch up!
The last time was sometime in the early 90s - we had so much fun reminiscing at the dinner table & daring each other to jump off the bridge!
That was too long ago & many of us have not yet met each others offspring!
So, I propose (unless someone else is keen to organise it!)....
* a weekend in Kenilworth ( a rural town in Queensland with a great camp ground)
* accommodation to cater for most tastes & budgets - camping, dorms, houses
* catering to be a mix of DIY & catered
* activities - DIY from canoeing to walks to sightseeing & shopping
Obviously the main aim is to maximise time together & also the opportunity to do your own thing!
I'm not sure if we should aim for 2014 or 2015 - you Kiwis (if it ends up in Australia) will need to determine this.
The invite will be for ALL families to attend - from Great Uncle Alan & Aunty Jule to the youngest of our families.
I'm putting it out there - thoughts, suggestions, coordinators will be most welcome!
Look forward to hearing your feedback,
Jules