All is well Down Under

Last month, I had a colonoscopy to check all was well in the bowels. I got to see were the section of bowel was removed - there were still staples inside by bowels ! Otherwise everything looked good, except for a small polyp which they burnt of and removed. It was confirmed as non-threatening just as I was boarding my plan for holidays, which was good news to start on ! Alas I did not manage to fly with Mimi though - she is on a standby ticket which saves about 75% of a normal ticket price, but means she cannot get on any flight that is fully booked, which my flight was.

So the last two and a bit weeks have been spent in Australia, catching up with Mimi's family and our friends. As we were staying with Mimi's brother, we got to spend some good time with his 4 month old son, Luca a.k.a "Munchie", who I have taken to calling "Cheeks" on account of his gorgeous big cheeks. Photos to come soon ! He is a beautiful baby, is very cute when he tries to talk, generally a happy boy and needless to say, he loves beardy kisses from Uncle Ben.

We were also very grateful that Luca's christening was arranged for when we were in Australia, so got to experience a Greek Orthodox service, as well as engage in the whirl of wine, food and loud chatter that is the Greek feast afterwards.

After all that, we needed some time for "us", so I insisted on dragging Mimi away for a day and a night to a surprise hotel / spa package. We had luxury massages, champagne and then some of the best food I've ever eaten at Da Noi - a Sardinian restaurant, which was followed by some quality movie action. After spending the next morning lounging in bed with breakfast we then headed out for a nice walk around the botanical gardens, where I had booked a picnic hamper with good food - and more champagne !

Not wanting to let the moment (and large amounts of champagne) slip by, I then bought out one last surprise for my sweetie - I got down on one knee and asked her to marry me. Fortunately, after a small period of shock and surprise from her, she said yes ! So the last few days have been spent by both of us getting used to this idea, and slowly spreading the news to family, friends and facebook :)

Heading back home tonight - alas potentially alone again, as the flight is looking full which means Mimi may need to wait until Sunday for her departure. But first of all, a big send off BBQ with "just the close family" - 15 to 20 people - to say goodbye and announce our wonderful news to those who haven't heard yet. For those back in the UK - see you soooon !