Looking Back 2001

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AUGUST 2001

We have both finished work and Sandy is now working out our finances and I'm preparing the equipment were going to take with us. We have purchased a 1994 Toyota Landcruiser Tray Top. It has an ARB bullbar and towbar, PTO thomas winch, ARB compressor, Canvas back and attached tent and awning, CB radio, dual batteries, oilskin seat covers, all new urethane bushes and shockies with 5 new 15 x 11R Goodyear Allterrain tyres.

SEPTEMBER 2001

We purchased a Savage Snipe 3.8m Aluminium Dinghy. I have just finished putting the rack and winch on the Cruiser so that I can carry it on top.
I have installed a mesh behind the canvas cover and made an engine mount to carry the 15hp Johnson motor in the back.
Next job is a thorough service to the cruiser including a new timing belt and injectors.
I have had 2 Art Classes this month at the Kwinana Recreation Centre. I am learning how to paint in Acrylics as they dry faster than oils. I have finished my first painting of the Mac Donald Ranges and made a picket frame for it. This has been accepted into the Kwinana art gallery and is now hanging there.
I am happily surprised that I can paint a lot better than I expected. This may be my new career as I travel.
I will have 8 lessons by November so hopefully I will have the basics down before we leave.

OCTOBER 2001

My current painting I'm working on is Sloans Cottage, a pioneer of Kwinana. This will be my first building I've painted.
The cruiser is almost packed. I've just finished making 2 art easels, 1 to go on a table and 1 three legged type.
The cruiser has been totally serviced and ready to go.
I have to service the outboard and take it for a test run in Cockburn Sound this week or next.
The Caravan is due next month.

NOVEMBER 2001

It sure takes a long time to pack up and dispose of all the things you collect in a lifetime.
The caravan has arrived, unfortunately our mattress didn't fit and the tyres and water tanks were too small. These items are now being fixed. We will be taking it to Armadale Canvas works to have an Annexe fitted and should have it back a week later.
After we pick it up on the 7th of December we will be trying to fit everything in the van ready for travelling.
Our final garage sale may be on the 15/12/2001 which will be advertised in the papers.
Sandy is trying her hand at bark paintings. One loveley lady -Nestor from my art classes is teaching her. Sandy is really enjoying herself and the paintings are looking good. See the Art Gallery for her first one.
The painting I have just finished is Sloan Cottage at Kwinana. A restored historical building.