Robert@PNG

A couple of weeks ago I picked up three parcels from Goroka Post Office. They were xmas parcels and were sent to me by the family back in Sydney.

XMAS was definitely not the same this year. Although we had a great time at “Waraguma” - I had many a moments thinking of the family back in Sydney. Xmas day was particularly sad and it was one of those rare times since I've been in PNG when I actually missed Sydney.

Although I only collected the parcels after new year's - they did
arrive! I picked them up from the Goroka Post Office during one lunch hour and headed down to the Bird of Paradise as I wanted to be in a “quiet” space when opening what had been sent. There were moments when opening the gifts when I had to hold back the tears. Both the simplicity and generosity struck me right at the core.

From Mum…
- A beautifully hand crafted xmas card. Reminded me of how Mum and Dad used to sit down and make them together.
- The small amount of cash.
- A framed photo of Mum.
- A photo of my niece Natalie (thanks Lucy and Rick). She is
turning into quite a “sort”. Has she changed over the past couple of
years - from a girl into a stunning young woman. Eli thought she looked gorgeous!!

From John, Therese and girls…
- PC Mag and DVD with assorted software. Definitely can't these items easily around these parts. Have read the mag from cover to cover and have come to realise that my “gadget” days are well and truly over! (for now).
- Hand made cards from the four girls.
- A bracelet from Emma for Eli.
- I especially missed going to the movies with the four girls.
- A Steve Parish Calendar and Diary - it was nice to see the australiana photos.
- A “Supre” pink bag.
- A “Love you Long Time T-Shirt” for Eli.

From Yolande, Peter and the gang…
- A hand made card from the kids.
- Some perfume for Eli and after-shave for yours truly.
- A pair of earings for Eli.

Thanks a million family!!