The Nevilles...

me, Ben, Marcelle, Yokako and Stewart
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The Douglas family have had a long standing friendship with a family that goes by the last name of Neville, who live 30 minutes south of Adelaide in a district called Noarlunga. This is essentially wine country - full of vineyards, olive groves and the remains of a few almond plantations that were predominant before the wine industry took over. I've spent the last few days with the Neville family - a quirky, boisterous and hilarious bunch of poms who drink far too much wine (who could blame them) and use no discretion whatsoever... brilliant. Patrick and Lorraine were my gracious hosts, along with their kids sister Sal, Ben and Jess. Sister Sal (very cool chicky) has just had a beautiful baby boy called Oliver, who I had a hard time letting go of as he was just that cute. Ben - out of control and a complete perve - but what a laugh. A little rough around the edges, but it's all for the best. It's a good thing he lives in London. You never know what's going to happen next in this household. We ate and ate and ate, and drank until our lips and teeth were stained red with local wines - we visited wineries and the local pub and drove along the coast. My belly hurts from laughing so much these past few days and they will be sorely missed. Sal lives in Melbourne, which might just be the perfect incentive to go back for another visit. Ben lives in London... I'd better warn my London lady friends of him. Who knows, maybe the land down under is where I could find myself permanently. The Nevilles are a wonderful family and I raise a toast of appreciation to them for putting up with me so graciously... hahaha.

drank until our lips and teeth were stained red with local wines