warren&liz

I went back after the first lonely, lonely Xmas here. It was fantastic to fly into the UK. Everything was so green and beautiful, even the weather was kind to us. Coming back here was hell. I was even more homesick after that visit. The second visit was 2 years ago in July and yet again the weather was kind. My father was very ill and it was the last time I would see him. Even so I had a wonderful time but the guilt of leaving my family was dreadful. My son who at that stage was 12 was like another posters son, devastated about coming back. He cried like a baby and my heart broke for him. He has never yet settled and says once he is 18 he will return. I have no doubt he means this. Australia does not mean home to me or the children. The third visit last January 2015 was for my fathers funeral. Obviously it was a traumatic time but yet again I felt I was home and had no urge to return here other than my husband and children. My husband is the only reason we are here. Hopefully we can go back home before this place destroys us.

Dear happyinoz So sorry to hear about your dad. 2 years ago my dad was very ill. I went home to see him and although it was hard to see someone who had been so active bedridden, I was glad I did. The joy on his face when he saw me was worth it. He died a few months after I returned to Oz. I know my visit made him happy for the little while I was there. I was dreading seeing him so ill but I think it made it easier for me to deal with his passing in the end. Also seeing the rest of your family will help you to cope. Lizx

My friend didn't quite stop at a stop sign, got 3 demerit points and $200.00 fine.

Hi Gill I too am unhappy in Perth. Hubby wants to stay for citizenship. Will be eligible April 2015. I don't want to stay as I don't think I will ever come back. I have been to Ireland for holiday. Am now even more unhappy living here. I miss everyone so much. The comment about witness protection in one post hit a nerve with me also. If you are unhappy no amount of sunshine will fix that. In fact sitting in the sunshine with tears rolling down your face is even sadder than in the rain. Take care Liz x

I found some. I got it in our local pool shop of all places. I was in with OH and was talking to the owner about not being able to find it and hey presto he lifted a packet of Crystal Brite Dishwasher salt off his shelf. $6.95 for 1 kg.

Just had a phone call this morning to tell me that my Mum has fallen and broken both her ankles. Feel so useless being here. When something happens you are unable to be with the people you love. Liz x

I agree wholeheartedly with everything adonna says. Plus it isn't as though you would be coming here to sign on. You would be an asset to the country. Validate the visa. If you still feel bad about it you don't have to come. Life is full of ups and downs and surprises. Maybe in a few months you and partner would come to miss each other and want to give it another go. If you give up your visa that would make life awkward too. Just a thought. Good luck. Liz x

Hi there I have been homesick from the holiday period ended. Before we came here we had a pact that if after 2 years either one of us wanted to go home we would all as a family return. My OH has now said that things have changed and he is not going. I am stuck here now. I am depressed, crying every day. I am making the kids life a misery as I am always sad. Talk to your husband. See if he will go home. I really hope he does. There is more to life than sunshine. Good luck. Liz x

So sorry for your loss. Liz and family x

Been here living in the hills just over 2 years now and have never seen a snake yet. Plenty of spiders, we usually leave them alone unless it is a redback very near to the house. Husband found 2 in the garage with massive egg sacks last spring, but I have only actually had 1 redback in the house (that I know of). Liz x

I too don't usually agree with tipping but, those lads that pack work their socks off. We too were supposed to have 4 guys but only 2 were sent the first day, another 2 arrived the following day to help load. They were lovely. Polite and never stopped. At one point I offered to make tea and was told that they wouldn't be allowed as it wasn't their tea break. Gave them £20 each. If I had had more on me would probably have given them a bit more. See how your guys work. If you think they deserve something it is up to you. Liz x

Hi Tonyman Will give it a try. Thanks Liz x

I have yet to have a good meal out in Australia. That includes ordinary fare as well curries. We simply don't eat out at all any more. Very sad as we used to love going out to eat at home. Liz x

We came with Emirates. A one way ticket was only £5 cheaper than the return at the time. £75 to change the date.

Hi I don't know where abouts you come from but if you can get to London next weekend there is an Expo. My daughter is going to it on Saturday 16th. There will be people there that can help answer your questions. Liz x

Hi Cathy Just wanted to say so sorry to hear of your plight. Hope he gets his come uppance. Will be thinking of you. Hugs Liz x

Congratulations on your visa grant. Liz x

HI Koalaroo Have tried the tip Eera gives about using damp cloth and an iron. I used it on a wooden coffee table of my own that one of the children had dented years ago with a toy car. Came up a treat. Liz x

Hi kellyjamie. Know how you feel, I felt like my heart had been ripped out when I was leaving. Once you are on your way though you will be OK. Also knowing you have family coming to visit is a real boost once you are here. Gives you a reason to get on with it and show everyone you did the right thing. Which you are. All the best Liz x

Many congratulations on your visa grant. Liz x

Hi Scott I have a nephew working for western power in Albany. He says it is a lovely place. It isn't very big but has everything you need. Apparently a bit on the quiet side if you are a party animal but it does have pubs. When he first arrived last year he stayed in Perth for training and met some other guys that were new to the country as well as himself. A few went to Albany at the same time as him as far as I know. Anyway he has had no trouble settling and he too was a bit daunted. Don't worry you will be fine. Liz x

So sorry to hear of your situation. Feel for you. Liz x

Hi Ian Welcome to Perth. It is real hot at the moment, you will just have to go to the beach. Don't forget your sunscreen. I know the mozzies are a pain. We try to stay inside around dusk. Put on Aerogard mozzie repellent. Helps a bit. Liz x

So sorry to hear of your tragic loss. My thoughts go out to you and your family.

Can get PG Tips and Bisto gravy granules in my local woolworths. Also we have an English shop near to where I live. It sells everything I missed. Even germoline. Liz x