Sigh

The seasons are indeed changing, and I am once again shivering in my chair with a blanket over my head. At least this year there was no hesitation or learning needed--the guest room's down comforter has been added to my own for a good 6 inches of down to keep out the drafts.

Aussie birds lack fashion sense too

I spent an enjoyable couple of hours yesterday at Wildlife World, an admittedly touristy institution in Darling Harbour next to the aquarium that has a small but well-done collection of native animals. They have a great bird exhibit, and amongst the many birds was the topknot pigeon, which looks like nothing other than a bird with a mullet. Fits right in!

(Note: the birds I saw seemed to have some of the "hair" flopping forward, increasing the mullet look from this photo, taken from here.)

Dear Sir/Madam

[This arrived today]

We have paid you a one-off tax bonus of $900. This payment is part of the Australian Government's economic stimulus plan.

This amount is based on your taxable income for the 2007-08 financial year.

Your tax bonus has been paid into the bank account you provided in you 2007-08 tax return -- or an account you nominated since them.... If this account has been closed, you do not need to do anything as we will send you a cheque.

...

This payment is not considered income for taxation purposes and it does not need to be included in your tax return.

You do not need to do anything else about this payment.

....

nice.

Living Muriel's Wedding

My next door neighbors are having an ABBA dance party.

I can't believe it.

Underwater at the Reef

My newest icky house-related problem

It's been raining a lot.

Johnny boy

After Mestrovic's St John the Baptist...

Cute croc

A baby crocodile in the Daintree River.