Friday 11th January 2019

Today after the girls packed up all their belongings (boohoo), and we had a quick visit with Mum (so glad the girls got to meet her and vice-a-versa) we left the kids with Mark and caught the train into the big smoke (aka Melbourne). 

Whilst on the train we were having a conversation about sexuality versus gender...anyway, a little head popped up from the seat behind us and asked if she could clarify a few things. We ofcourse invited her to join us. I have to say it was quite informative and I admired the bravery, although there is still much I can't quite get my head around. 

So we hopped off in Footscray to jump on the loop train and show Kim both my Uni route and Donna's, BUT we ended up on the wrong train and so off to Southern Cross we went...yes, the other train was also going there LOL, lets think of it as a non bumpy detour! 

From Southern Cross it was a quick pitstop before catching the tram up to Bourke Street, where we then got off and caught another tram up to the Vic Market. We met up with Donnas daughter (Madi) for lunch and a stroll around the market. 

After that the 3 of us stopped for a caffine hit (sugary iced coffee frappes YUM) before jumping on another tram up to the Uni. Kim officially became a student (aka got her student card) and got to enquire about whether she could graduate with us in Melbourne, which she CAN whoo hoo! It was ultra fitting that we ended our city trip at the Uni, given that it is how we all came to be connected. If I had of continued with the Naturopath degree and not transferred when I did, our paths may never have crossed. 

Anyway, from there we walked up to Melbourne Central station, where Donna and I discovered the shattering news that the cafe we frequented after exams had closed...oh well, need to find a new hang zone. 

We caught the train to Footscray, a bus to Donnas street (where we got to briefly meet her son Jesse as we were crossing the road...divine timing as he stopped traffic for us) and then it was a short stroll up the tree lined cobble stone path to Donnas lovely home. 

Mark and the four kids met up with us not long after so Donna got some Pizza for us for Dinner, which everyone enjoyed and devoured in no time. 

Sadly the time came for us to say our Goodbyes and so it was hugs all round and plans for future catch ups confirmed before I left Donna and Kim to get an earlish night so they could be at the station bright and early the next day (well 8.30am anyway) for Kims journey back home to NSW. 

Our car trip conversation was all about the amazing week we had spent with our beautiful friends. 

We dropped the boys at Glenns and headed home. Just as we were about to pull into the driveway Mark remembered that my car was at the station...so quick detour to grab it and off home we went (again)! 

Our home felt so empty that night. But as much as I missed their company, my heart was also so full of gratitude to have them in my life.