Mom's birthday

Waking up early again has it's benefits.  We got to get on the road after singing happy birthday to Mom.  Dave, our proprietor from Kinross Motor Inn there in Cooma was a gem and let me just say the person in the Mobil petrol station was spot on about Kuma Bakery being the best bakery!  When we stepped in the door not only could you feel the wonderful and much accepted warmth of the ovens because it is all fresh baked on the premises but also from the staff.  The ladies working the counter in that shop were just as sweet as their creations!  I think I can take liberties and speak for the rest of the group and say that was one of the best bakeries we have come across since this journey began.

We pointed the car towards ACT and didn't stop until we arrived at Parliament Zone.  It was amazing to walk through and, as there were no sessions on, we were allowed to look at the area of Senate and House of Representatives.  It was also fascinating to see the people who came to see the place, too; just like in the states there seemed to be more foreigners admiring than Aussies.

We couldn't leave without stopping by to see the Australian War Museum.  When we walked into the Hall of Valor it almost brought tears to my eyes.  The men and women who gave so much for their country without regard for their lives, to be honored with a medal is in no way enough to show the extent of the sacrifice.  Reading letters that family members received notifying them of their loss some accompanied by personal effects (one was a man's pocket watch that was hit by shrapnel and stopped at the time its owner died) left me speechless.

We continued on our way and arrived at Picton Valley Motel for the evening.  We are taking it easy tonight.  We had dinner here at the motel, they were kind enough to let us share in a bottle of McGuigan's Mascato were have had chilling in the refrigerator for a few days, so we could toast Mom's birthday and it was delish!  Now Mom and Dad are re-packing one last time, Richard and I are watching footy while downloading pictures and sharing with the folks before they go.  It is off to the airport planned leaving at 8:30 tomorrow morning then off to check in to our hotel - while I fear Richard may have to check in by himself until I can stop crying.