#melbourne dog boarding

[adogsdomain]

Dog Boarding in Brighton

At A Dogs Domain and Cats too, we do more than provide pet care - we care about your pet(s) just as we care about our own. Not only are we animal lovers but you can be sure that while they are in our care, they will be well looked after.

As pet owners, we all know the struggle of finding a reliable place to board our furry friends when we go out of town or are unable to care for them ourselves. It can be a nerve-wracking experience, leaving our beloved pets in the care of strangers while we are away. However, with the right boarding facility, you can rest assured that your pets are receiving the love, attention, and care they need. Whether you're going on vacation or need to leave your pet with us for the day, our team is committed to providing a safe and loving environment for your furry friends.

[societyfolklore]

White Wine In The Sun

Title: White Wine In The Sun (Prompt- let's go somewhere warm for the winter)   Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Female Reader Summary:  It’s been years since Bucky has truly celebrated Christmas, but this year, he finds himself reluctantly agreeing to spend the holidays with you at your childhood home—a sunny, warm retreat in Australia.

Word Count: 2k

Warnings:  Romance, Little Angsty and Fluff, Kissing A/N: Another entry for @the-slumberparty December daze challenge- Day 16) As an Australian Christmas is a different experience for us.. Also it’s 40+/104 degrees here today LOL taking inspo from White Wine In The Sun by Tim Minchin

The sound of jet engines roared in the background as Bucky adjusted his duffle bag over his shoulder, glancing down at the boarding pass in his hand. A flight to Melbourne, Australia, was far from how he imagined spending his Christmas. He looked over at you, the excitement on your face unmistakable as you juggled your carry-on and passport.

"You sure you want to drag me along for this?" he muttered, his tone low but tinged with humour.

You smiled at him, nudging his arm. "I'm not dragging you. You're coming willingly. Mostly."

He huffed, shaking his head but allowing you to guide him toward the gate. "Just remember, this was your idea," he said, though there was no bite to his words.

As you boarded the plane and found your seats, Bucky couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. He had never been one for big family gatherings, and the thought of spending Christmas with your family in a small country town made him a little anxious. But as he looked over at you, he saw the excitement in your eyes and knew he couldn't say no.

The flight was long, but eventually, you arrived in Melbourne and made your way to the rural property where you grew up. The drive long from the capital, though Bucky could practically watch you vibrate in the driver's seat next to him, the aircon already blasting in the car. You regaled him with stories of Christmases past in in the country. “Down here, Christmas is typically BBQ, white wine, beers and prawns.” You did wonder if Bucky would miss snow and roaring fires. He listened quietly, his lips quirking into small smiles when you told him about your dad’s chaotic attempts to make pavlova and your siblings’ insistence on Christmas karaoke when everyone got too drunk or had to much sugar.

“It’s… different,” Bucky said cautiously as he looked out car window, watching the paddocks of dry grass and gumtrees past by.

“You’ll love it,” you assured him, squeezing his hand. “It might not be snowy and cold, but it’s still magical. And I want you to experience it with me.” The house was a beautiful, some old farm house with a wrap-around veranda and large trees surrounding it. Dogs running around the gardens by the house as the car pulled up the long drive. As you stepped out of the car, Bucky followed getting hit in the face by the stifling heat that seemed to not affect you at all as he took in the sights and sounds of the property. You led him to the front door, Bucky looked uncomfortable in the heat already.  Your parents came bustling out to greet you, their enthusiasm immediately overwhelming Bucky, though he managed a polite smile as they pulled you into hugs.

“And this must be Bucky,” your mom said warmly, extending a hand. “We’ve heard so much about you.”

Bucky’s lips twitched into a faint smile. “Thank you for having me,” he said, his voice quiet but genuine.

Your dad clapped him on the back, nearly making him stumble. “Come on in! Bet you’re starving after that flight.” “Your fathers even put the aircon on.” “Oh it is a special occasion!” You chime trying not to laugh as you both got ushed inside into the cool. “Thought your poor boy might melt on us if I didn’t.” You hoped Bucky had been around you long enough to understand ‘Australian’ humour or this might be a long few days for him.

Thankfully  Bucky adjusted to the unorthodox holiday traditions your family embraced. He helped your dad man the BBQ as more family descended on the house, earning approving nods for his efficient handling of the steaks. Your sister arrival  with her small family resulted in your shrieking like someone had doused you in ice water, Bucky had barely enough time to register what was going on before you took off sprinting across the lawn almost taking her to the ground in a hug  while her husband carried their new infant daughter from the car. “ABBY!” Abby squealed in delight, squeezing you just as tightly as you embraced her, both of you laughing like kids again. “Oh my God, look at you! You’re glowing!” you exclaimed, pulling back to hold her at arm’s length. “And her! Let me see her!”

Her husband chuckled, carefully shifting the tiny bundle in his arms toward you. “Meet baby Lucy,” he said proudly.

Your heart melted instantly as you reached for the baby, cradling her with practiced ease. “Oh, Abby, she’s perfect,” you breathed, your eyes misting as you took in the soft, delicate features of your new niece. Lucy yawned, her tiny face scrunching up before settling into a peaceful expression, and you swore your heart grew three sizes.

“Bucky!” you called over your shoulder, your excitement brimming over. “Come ‘ere! You ‘ave to meet her!”

Bucky, who had just finished placing a perfectly grilled steak onto a serving tray for your dad, looked up from the BBQ. He hesitated for only a moment, his brows knitting together in a mix of curiosity and cautiousness, before making his way over.

“This is Bucky,” you introduced as he approached, your smile wide as you gestured to him with one hand while still holding Lucy in the other. “And Bucky, this is my sister Abby, her husband Jake, and the newest addition to the family—baby Lucy.”

Abby gave Bucky a once-over, her expression swiftly turning approving. “So ‘is is the famous Bucky,” she said, her voice teasing. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

Bucky glanced at you, a faint blush creeping up his neck. “All good things, I hope.”

“Mostly,” Abby teased with a smirk before extending her hand. “Welcome to the chaos. If you survived the BBQ, you’re halfway there.”

Bucky shook her hand, his grin softening. “Thanks. And congrats, by the way. She’s beautiful.”

“Want to ‘old her?” Jake asked suddenly, catching everyone off guard. He stepped closer, offering the baby to Bucky.

“Oh, uh…” Bucky’s eyes widened slightly, and he instinctively stepped back. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea.”

“You’ll be fine mate,” Jake assured him with a friendly smile. “She’s lighter than a ‘ag of flour. ‘ust support her head, and you’re golden.”

“Go on,” you encouraged gently, your voice filled with warmth. “She wont bite—yet.”

Reluctantly, Bucky nodded, his expression a mix of uncertainty and determination. Jake carefully handed Lucy over, and Bucky held her with the same precision and care he might handle a priceless artifact. His metal hand rested firmly under her body, supporting her weight as his flesh hand cradled her head.

For a moment, everything seemed to pause. Lucy stirred slightly, her tiny fist waving in the air before she settled again, and Bucky let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.

“She likes you,” Abby said softly, her teasing replaced with genuine warmth.

Bucky’s lips curved into a small, almost shy smile as he looked down at the baby in his arms. “She’s... so small,” he murmured, his voice full of wonder.

Your heart swelled at the sight. You hadn’t expected this, but seeing Bucky—calm, tender, and utterly captivated by your niece—was enough to make your chest ache with affection. You exchanged a quiet glance with Abby, her knowing smile mirroring your own.

“Well,” Jake said with a grin, “looks like Uncle Buck a natural.”

Bucky’s gaze flicked up, meeting yours with a hint of surprise at the title, but you just smiled softly, nodding in agreement. “Yeah,” you said. “He really is.”

Your younger cousins dragged him into a backyard cricket game, where he quickly became the star player despite his initial protests. Watching him laugh as the kids cheered his every move made your heart swell as you sat with your infant niece asleep on your shoulder.

As Christmas day turned into Christmas night and the endless buffet of festive eating turned into casual grazing under twinkling string lights, you found Bucky sitting on the back veranda staring out at the horizon where the sun dipped below the trees. You joined him, handing him a cold drink. You could see a mob of roos bouncing their way across the far paddock.

“It’s different, huh?” you asked, sitting beside him.

He nodded, his gaze distant. “Yeah. Different… but nice.” He glanced at you, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “Your family’s great.”

“They love you already,” you said, leaning your shoulder against his. “And I love seeing you like this—relaxed, happy.”

Bucky’s smile faded slightly, his brow furrowing. “It’s not something I’m used to,” he admitted. “Being around so much… joy. It’s good, though. I’m trying.”

You reached over, taking his hand in yours. “You’re doing great, Buck. And I’m proud of you.” Bucky glanced down at your hand in his, his thumb brushing over your knuckles as his expression softened. The quiet moment between you seemed to stretch, filled with the faint hum of cicadas and the distant laughter of your family inside the house.

“I didn’t think I’d fit in Doll,” he murmured, his voice low and almost hesitant. “I mean, this—your family, all this… normalcy. I wasn’t sure it was for me.”

You smiled, leaning into him just a little more. “You’re wrong, you know. You fit in just fine. Better than fine, actually. I think my dad’s ready to adopt you after that steak performance.”

A small laugh escaped him, a sound that was still rare enough to make your chest tighten with affection. “Yeah, your dad’s good people.”

“You’re good people,” you teased, nudging him lightly with your shoulder. “And, for the record, you’re doing a lot better than the time Uncle Rick burned half the backyard trying to light the BBQ.”

Bucky chuckled at that, the sound warming the cool night air. “Guess I’ve got that going for me.”

For a moment, the two of you simply sat there, watching the horizon as the last hints of sunlight disappeared and the stars began to blink into view. The quiet comfort between you felt like its own kind of holiday magic—simple, real, and grounding.

When he finally spoke again, his voice was quieter, more reflective. “Thanks for bringing me here. For… all of this.”

You turned to look at him, catching the vulnerability in his expression as he stared out at the stars. “You deserved it, Bucky,” you said softly. “You deserve every bit of this—every laugh, every hug, every moment of peace.”

His hand tightened slightly around yours, and when he turned his gaze to meet yours, there was something unspoken in his eyes—something raw and grateful. “You make it easier to believe that,” he said, barely above a whisper.

You smiled, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to his cheek. “Good. Because it’s true.”

The distant laughter of your family drifted out onto the porch, pulling both of you back to the present. Bucky glanced toward the house, his smile growing as he squeezed your hand. “So, when do I get my own honorary ugly Christmas shirt?”

You burst into laughter, shaking your head. “Oh, you’re in for it next year, Barnes. And it’s going to have tinsel.”

That night, after everyone else had gone to bed, you and Bucky found yourselves alone on the porch, the warm breeze carrying the scent countryside and flowers. The quiet intimacy of the moment wrapped around you both like a blanket.

Bucky reached out, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “You’ve given me something I didn’t think I’d ever have Doll,” he said quietly. “A home. A place I belong.”

Tears welled in your eyes as you leaned closer, pressing your forehead to his. “You are my home, Bucky. Always.” The kiss that followed was slow and tender, deepening as months of unspoken longing finally broke free. Bucky’s hands roamed your back, pulling you closer until you were both breathless. He scooped you into his arms, carrying you inside.

[scenetocause]

no one asked for this but i was in the kitchen makin instant ramen and poleaxed by the thought of landoscar puppy play post-melbourne in the style of a fic i thought was gemjam's but now can't find where mark webber gave his then-protegee mitch evans a collar to help with homesickness anyway whatever have some fuckin words

edit: fuck's sake cassian obviously it was a collar and a kiss by zeraparker

mild warning for hopelessly undernegotiated kink

"Don't you ever get homesick?" Oscar could count the number of people he'd less like to be having this conversation with than Lando Norris on one hand and one of them's the bored immigration officer who had to tell him he'd not got his passport stamped right in Doha.

Lando snaps his gum, looking up to the ceiling like he's actually thinking about it. "No? Not really. I was sick of fucking Bali over Christmas, jesus and I don't want to go back to Dubai but like, home is everywhere innit?"

"No." Oscar closes his eyes, pinches the bridge of his nose. Obviously Lando doesn't experience this, he could literally drive to his parents' house on half a tank of fuel, straight out of the MTC car park. Straight from Oscar's flat, where for some reason he's letting Lando crash as though him seeing the post-Australia comedown is a good idea.

"Hmm." Hearing Lando think is always disturbing. "Well, what can I do about it?"

Oscar has to open his eyes again in disbelief. 'What do you mean do about it?"

Seeing Lando cocking his head on one side, like a dog, makes something painful sear across Oscar's temples. "You're sad, I want to fix it. Max always-"

"Don't tell me about that." He can't hear about Max Fewtrell right now. The guy haunting the garage all weekend was enough. Oscar doesn't need a reminder he's not Lando's first anything, needs to keep the thoughts about breaking up with his girlfriend so they can properly be a thing to himself.

"Well." Lando is literally sitting on his hands. "Then you have to tell me about it yourself."

Thing is, this is too much. It's not the kind of thing he should share with Lando. Lando who he just got team-ordered for, Lando who he needs to match the tyre management of, Lando who will sit there and smile angelically and get his fucking way on anything they ever diverge on about feedback.

Oscar's clenching his jaw so hard he can almost feel the ache where they took his wisdom teeth, though. Another thing he didn't know he'd really miss this much.

"You can't fucking laugh at me." Why's he said that, for fuck's sake? Lando laughs at everything, would probably do it at a funeral in his weird, stressed-out way when he doesn't know how to socially behave.

"Ok." Lando's eyes are very big and he's looked up from his phone. "I can order TimTams on Uber Eats?"

That's actually quite sweet. But not what Oscar needs right now.

"Just - stay here." Lando's fucking weird, he's probably into some of this shit himself. If not something freakier, lying around his Monaco flat in a gimp mask, suffocating himself or god-knows-what shit.

It doesn't take long to find the box. Oscar's consciously never accumulated too much stuff in this flat, like he might have to move out of it any time. Like everything might have to go in a suitcase because the contract review board said it's over, kiddo, go back down under and pretend you understand your dad's business enough to pay him back.

It's not got very much in. Oscar doesn't like to wear too much, when he's like this. Just a t-shirt and shorts or his boxers. He doesn't think he's ready for Lando to see him shirtless, like this, make his eyes crinkle up in glee at how much of Oscar he can touch.

It'd be better if Lando did it, if someone put it on for him but that's too complicated to ask for, so Oscar does it himself, mostly. Puts the soft shorts on, an old Prema shirt that's a little too tight to wear outdoors but feels comfy, soft, reassuring on his skin.

The ears are easy but the collar. He can't do that, himself. Can't give himself the ball, the well-chewed, if pristinely laundered, beanie toy. Whines, unhappily, about it.

"Osc-" obviously, Lando heard him. The sounds of him chaotically standing up, nearly falling over Oscar's rug and stumbling towards his bedroom door, are already clattering through the flat. "Can I come in?"

He just whines again, an animal thing. Oscar needs permission, like this, doesn't give it.

"Ok you better not be dying because I never finished the first aid-" Lando stops in the doorway. "Oh."

Oscar sinks to the floor, his knees bending beneath him, shoving the box at Lando before he folds down on his knees and elbows, looking up at the guy he's supposed to do anything to beat.

"Good..." Lando moves his mouth around for a moment, licks his lips. "Puppy?"

He doesn't have a tail to wag, although he has thought about one of the plugs, sometimes. Objectively, the bit of Oscar's brain that's still somewhat functioning says wiggling his arse must make him look ridiculous, especially when he paws at the box and whines again.

Lando crouches down, touches the ears. "Do you want to go out?"

Oscar cringes back, shaking his head violently. God, imagine the headlines.

"Ok." Lando does his head-cock thing again, then sticks his hands into the box. "Do you want your collar?"

It's pretty shameful, the way Oscar crawls forward so easily, smushes his face against Lando's knee and maybe he should have asked about this properly but Lando goes easily, scritching behind Oscar's ear. "Oh you're such a good boy, look at you."

Lando fumbles the collar for a second, not getting the buckle right the first time and it's nearly uncomfortable enough Oscar stands up, right back out of it but then it goes and it's snug and tight and good, Lando's hand in his hair.

"Are these your toys?" Lando shifts to kneeling, lets Oscar get his head right in his lap, nuzzling against Lando's stomach through the pouch of his hoodie. He doesn't need to answer that one, it's pretty obvious.

"Well, I don't think Oscar would want you breaking his stuff, so I'm going to leave the ball here." The third person is a jolt, like a nod to camera but it feels right. Oscar is elsewhere, can worry about that later.

"Come on then, good dog." Lando stands up, with the beanie toy in hand. It's a koala, a stupid joke. "Come and play, then."

It's not a comfortable flat to get through on your hands and knees, hard wooden floor jarring him in a way that'll probably bruise a bit, tomorrow. Lando's walking easily, waggling the beanie like he thinks he needs to keep Oscar interested.

Not Oscar. Puppy. It feels good.

Lando pushes the coffee table away, scraping on the floor in a way Oscar's landlord will probably have an opinion about when he comes to pay the deposit back. But puppies don't worry about that kind of thing, so Oscar just crawls over to where Lando's sitting, legs spread and outstretched, on the rug.

"Come on," Lando holds out the beanie, waving it by Oscar's mouth. "You want this, yeah?"

Oscar growls, nips at it. It's not the toy he wants, really, just the -

Ah, perfect. Lando pulls Oscar forward by the toy, right on top of him as he leans back. Oscar can paw him like his, Lando laughing delightedly and twisting away.

It's - he's seen the video, McLaren posted it for some national day or something last year - the same way Lando plays with his family's dog. Silly, rolling around the floor, letting Oscar half-hump him while Lando's shrieking and trying to get out of his grip, only to dive back in, wrestling with Oscar.

The rug scoots across the floor under them and they nearly crash into the telly, Oscar ending up on his back, against the sofa, Lando tickling his tummy but the toy in Oscar's mouth, triumphant.

"Are you submitting? Are you letting me lead the pack?" It's a bit on the nose but yeah, maybe. Oscar kicks out a leg, half-heartedly, to show he isn't always going to be ok with that.

"What a good boy." That, he is always ok with. More than human-Oscar would like to admit.

Lando lies down next to him, face a bit flushed and eyes bright from playing. "Always wanted a dog. You can even come to all the races."

[isay]

Kim has just boarded her flight home. She also snagged the best upgrade it is possible to get, seat 1A.

I’m looking forward to her being home, although I have actually enjoyed this time with just me and the girls, despite the weather being quite decidedly Melbourne and unpredictable.

So tonight will be a chicken and mushroom pie, quite possibly Dead Reckoning Pt1, a glass of non alcoholic Pinot Noir and an early night with both the dogs in my bed for the last time for a while.

[ahomeartgallery]

Home is pleased to be exhibiting a suite of paintings by Melbourne based artist, Darren McDonald in 2024. The works are from a series titled – Birds, Cats & Dogs.

“...the work looks at how we as humans communicate with animals, either domestic or wild. I find it fascinating the bond we make with our pets, the trust and friendship made without the same language. It reminds me of travelling in a foreign country & not being able to communicate but forming strong bonds. Is it done through the eyes, body language, touch or a common sense of trust. The eyes play a big role in my work, I hope they communicate to the viewer the many complexities of the animal & human nature...”

Pictured are Denzel and A fox went out on a chilly night, 2023, oil on board.

[alexiusgoesrogue]

Status Update: Melbourne, Delays, and Wellington

The longest ride is done. It felt horribly long, yet I was surprised how quickly it was over. Probably because of the naps I took. If I remember correctly, we were served three meals during the whole 12h flight, as well as the occasional drink offer of course. But I was too tired to write anything down about them, nor did I take pictures. So no food review for this flight.

In itself, the flight was fine. But the hefty delay under which it started had stressed me. My ticket to Wellington stated the gate opens at 7:15am, leaving 45 minute to board, and another run through TSA, because of course. By the time of landing, I was losing all calm I had. I was close to crying because the disembarking took forever and I was becoming more overstimulated. But as it later turned out, the plane was waiting for us. I rushed through TSA (minus the confusion of the staff when I asked to hand search my Polaroid film), and nice employees directed us to the gate at every corner.

We waited for all passengers, and again, I had an empty seat next to me, aisle this time. But I didn’t find it necessary to switch over to that seat. And due to technical difficulties, we ended up with a total delay of roughly 40 minutes until takeoff.

As of the time I was writing this, I was watching the Five Nights at Freddy’s movie with shitty (but somehow better) headphones, and eating a Werther’s Original thanks to the lovely old man I sat next to.

The flight was nice and short (compared to the two previous ones), and surprisingly, we were served breakfast. I had the choice between omelette, baked beans and sausage, or a fruit platter. And although I’m not a big omelette fan, I chose that because I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect on the fruit platter.

Food Ranking:

Omelette: 5/5, absolutely tasty on its own already, I think it contained a bit of cheese. But sprinkling a tiny bit of salt on top made it taste even better

Potatoes: 3/5, a bit weird to handle (they were a bit firm, but brittle), and the taste was just fine

Baked Beans: 5/5, never had baked beans before, and these just killed it. Great flavour, no weird texture, and the sauce was great as well

Bacon: 4/5, decent bacon, meaning fine flavour and not completely burned or soggy with oil, it just had lost some of its original feel due to the reheat I think

Muffin: 3/5, fine dessert, not really sweet, but I was just too stuffed to really enjoy it, and the flavour was fine, but just not good enough to stuff myself full with

***

The plane landed a bit chaotically on the runway right by the beach, but all went fine. We [the passengers] disembarked and headed for the luggage carousel to pick up our suitcases. Except mine didn’t show up, as well as several others. The first thing I got to do in New Zealand wasn’t going through border control, it was filing a missing luggage form along with about ten other people.

With that out of the way, the border control went by super fast. I handed them the form and keys to my luggage, and since my declaration file was made online as well as my NZeTA, the woman only needed my passport to check. I was actually a bit disappointed that she didn’t ask for my return ticket as proof, since I had made sure to print it out. After that, I was told to follow the line past the biosecurity checkpoint and a small beagle dog who was working there.

I was now officially in Wellington.

Bee was already waiting for me, and after a quick hello, we headed into town with the bus, ticket sponsored by him. We found our hostel and checked in. Unfortunately, not the same room, or the same floor. But we manage.

We did some shopping for foods I should try, took another break in the common room, and then got small bit of dinner at the McDonald’s next door because we were both too exhausted to bother cooking.

[badbreed1111]

A WOMAN was flying from Melbourne to Brisbane.

Unexpectedly, the plane was diverted to Sydney:

The flight attendant explained that there would be a delay and if the passengers wanted to get off the aircraft the plane would re-board in 50 minutes.

Everybody got off the plane except one lady who was blind.

A man had noticed her as he walked by and could tell the lady was blind because her Seeing Eye Dog lay quietly underneath the seats in front of her throughout the entire flight.

He could also tell she had flown this very flight before because the pilot approached her and calling her by name, said. "Kathy, we are in Sydney for almost an hour. Would you like to get off and stretch your legs?"

The blind lady replied. "No thanks, but maybe Max would Like to stretch his legs."

Picture this:

All the people in the gate area came to a complete standstill when they looked up and saw the pilot walk off the plane with a Seeing Eye dog!

The pilot was even wearing sunglasses. People scattered.

They not only tried to change planes, but they were trying to change airlines!

True story...

Have a great day and remember...

THINGS AREN'T ALWAYS AS THEY APPEAR.

A DAY WITHOUT LAUGHTER IS A DAY WASTED! 🤣

[ggtakespics]

You win some...learn from the rest

Hi all. Well, here we go … the last one for this year. Where has it gone? The acceleration of time feels real. Surely it can’t all be in my imagination. Nah! It’s real…just ask my knees…lol.

Christmas, the time for giving, caring and sharing and apparently helping yourself to other people’s property. Some lowlife decided they needed my brewing ingredients more than I did. I hope they enjoy it as much as I would have.

On a much happier note…my newest grand baby is only a matter of days away. It will be great to have some joy and a reason to celebrate.

And continuing on a celebratory note. We are rejoicing, that finally, we have managed to keep the wallabies/pademelons at bay. It has been a few months now and the difference in the garden is amazing. The plants are thriving…revelling in the fact that they are not getting tip pruned (or totally destroyed) every evening.

Heidi is still managing to surprise us on a regular basis. Her absolute favourite place is the beach. Some days she will chase the birds…other times, not interested. Some days she will chase thrown objects into the water and duck dive down to find them (yep you read correctly…she sticks her whole head under water) and other days not interested. And then randomly, she will decide she is going for a swim. Michelle thought she was going to have to go after her one day as Heidi seemed determined to swim to Melbourne! Crazy dog.

Work variety, and unpredictability continues. Just recently my subject matter has included dairy farmers, doctors, medical practices, first-home buyers and mortgage brokers…the spice of life …reputedly.

And driving to a job you can’t help but notice the riot of colour that is an outbreak of feral Hollyhocks. Very pretty, but very much out of place.

My happy place of late has been my shed. It’s not very big but it is becoming quite productive. My latest project has been a small set of drawers…a birthday present for Michelle. I’m not letting the cat out of the bag or spoiling her surprise, as I have given it to her early.

Some time ago I was gifted a blackwood board (thanks Crispy) that I have had earmarked for a special project. What better than Michelle’s 60th birthday present.

I decided the carcass would be blackwood and the drawers Tas oak with Huon pine fronts. Firstly, I needed to mill the board. With each pass through the thicknesser the character of the timber was being revealed…satisfying to see. Enjoying a challenge (or a glutton for punishment) I decided to use splined mitre joints…something I had never attempted before. They turned out ok, but I reckon I can do better.

The drawer carcasses were both finger-jointed.

I really enjoyed working with the Huon pine (not as prone to tear-out or splintering like the blackwood) as it is very rewarding as you work your way through the grits when sanding, giving an almost velvet feel…not to mention the gorgeous aroma. Mind you, the finish on the blackwood is not too shabby…if I do say so myself. Some people really hate sanding. I find it quite therapeutic…and extremely rewarding if you are patient. I love the super-smooth feeling when you run your finger tips over a finely sanded piece of beautiful timber.

The whole project is finished with Odie’s Wood Butter…a new product for me… and way preferable to the toxic smelling stuff I used previously!

I guess the most important thing…Michelle loved it 

Ok folks. I’m wrapping up now.

I hope you get to celebrate in the way you choose, with the people you choose to be with.

Be kind to each other…see you next year.

[buckeyek9]

Experience peace of mind with Premier Dog Boarding at Buckeye K9 in Melbourne.

At Buckeye K9, we understand that your dog is a cherished member of your family. Whether you're away for work or leisure, our premier dog boarding service in Melbourne ensures your furry friend is in the best hands. We offer spacious accommodations and personalized care, making sure your dog feels right at home. Our dedicated team provides expert attention, playtime, and companionship, creating a nurturing environment where your dog can thrive. Give your dog the vacation they deserve—book their stay with us today at Buckeye K9.

[adogsdomain]

THE BEST FOR YOUR PET Cat Boarding Melbourne Our spacious, multi-level suites include their own private igloo with bedding/blankets along with cat scratchers and various toys to occupy them during their stay.

Cat Accommodation Cat Suites available at $30.00 per cat, per day.

With the exception of three of our suites, all cats staying with us have access to their own private, secure outdoor area where they can both rest and enjoy the morning and afternoon sunshine and fresh air.

We have recently introduced 'Feliway' which is a pheromone that helps to calm and soothe our guests during their stay.

Suitable for short, medium and long-term stays, our suites are suitable for up to two cats from the same household and upon client request/approval. Please advise on booking.

[petnews2day]

Desperate search for pet dog who escaped in Melbourne before flight to UK

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/HboCX

Desperate search for pet dog who escaped in Melbourne before flight to UK

A beloved pet dog remains on the run two weeks after escaping animal transport staff in Melbourne. Milo the Jack Russell X was preparing to board a flight to the UK last month, when he got loose and ran off at Tullamarine Airport last month. But his owner Jason Whatnall was already in the air, […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/HboCX #PetTravelNews

[itsjeswilliams]

1. What is your name?

Jes.

2. What color shirt are you wearing now?

Black.

3. What are you listening to right now?

Nothing.

4. What are the last 2 digits of your phone number?

22.

5. What was the last thing you ate?

String cheese.

6. If you were a crayon what color would you be?

Black.

7. How is the weather right now?

Very, very cold. But sunny.

8. Who was the last person you talked to on the phone?

Doug. Technically it was on discord.

9. The first thing you notice about the opposite/same sex?

What shoes they’re wearing.

10. Favorite Food?

My mum’s orange pasta dish and my girlfriend’s taco chicken rice.

11. Favorite Drink?

V.

12. Favorite Alcoholic Drink?

Hard solo and White Russian.

13. Favorite place to shop?

Temu and Shein.

14. Hair color:

Naturally, red. Coloured, black.

15. Eye Color:

Dark brown.

16. Do you wear contacts?

No.

17. What did you do today?

Picked up my kids from their dad’s, hung out with them, played video games etc.

18. favorite month?

Probably December. I like doing Christmas for my kids.

19. Favorite Fast Food?

HSP and Chinese.

20. Last Movie you Watched?

Zombies, with my kid. It was awful but she really liked it.

21. Favorite Day of the Year?

Christmas.

22. Are you too shy to ask someone out?

Apparently not.

23. Summer or Winter?

Depends.

24. Hugs or Kisses?

Depends who from.

25. Chocolate or Vanilla?

Depends on the food.

26. Do you want your friends to respond back?

I doubt anyone will see this lol.

27. Who is most likely to respond?

No one.

28. Who is least likely to respond?

Everyone.

29. What books are you reading?

I’m not.

30. favorite TV Show?

At the moment, The Great.

31. What's on your mouse pad?

I have a big desk pad. It’s a pink Nintendo switch with cat paws.

32. Favorite board game?

Game of Life.

33. What did you do last night?

I played computer games with my friends.

34. Favorite Author?

Don’t have one.

35. Who inspires you?

My mum.

36. Butter, Plain or Salted popcorn?

Butter.

37. Dogs or cats?

Cats.

38. Favorite Flower?

Sunflower.

39. What do you say when you wake up in the A.M.?

Nothing.

40. Do you still talk to your best friends from middle school?

No.

41. What's on your desk?

Desk mat, keyboard, mouse.. and some snacks and drinks.

42. Rock Concert or symphony?

Rock.

43. Play or Opera?

Play.

44. Have you ever fired a gun?

No.

45. Do you like to travel by plane?

No.

**46. Right-handed or Left-handed?

Right.

47. Smooth or Chunky Peanut Butter?

Smooth.

48. How many pillows do you sleep with?

Two.

49. City and State you were born?

Melbourne, Australia.

50. Ever hitchhiked?

No.

[pawsandclawspet]

Paws and Claws Pet Sitting

Paws & Claws Pet Sitting is a well established dog walking Melbourne business covering the Bayside and Kingston suburbs. We offer dog walking, home boarding and pet visits for your peace of mind. Your pets are treated as our own and will be looked after with the utmost care and respect. We look forward to meeting you and your furries soon! Fiona - Owner"

Website: https://pawsandclawspetsitting.com.au/

Address: Melbourne, Victoria

Phone Number: 0423 321 520

Contact mail: fionapawsclaws@gmail.com

Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

[warrandyte1]

The best boarding and care services for dogs | Dogdayz Australia

Depend on Dogdayz for outstanding dog boarding and care services throughout Australia. Our dedicated team ensures a secure and comfortable environment for your beloved pet. Reserve now for a worry-free experience! For further details, visit our website at https://dogdayz.com.au/dog-boarding/dog-minding/

[aliyabilalportfolio]

Writing Practise - Weekly Writing Exercises

Exercise Week 2

1.  One man is dead and two are in hospital, after a collision on the corner of Rollins Avenue and Post Road. 

 Police say the collision happened in Richmond at 7:10 this morning.  

No other passengers were onboard. 

The male driver was travelling at an estimated speed of 60km/h and was killed instantly.   

His van was destroyed in the crash.  

The two firemen on board were hospitalised, their current conditions are unknown at this time. 

2.  Bigger cars are safer to drive, according to a study by The Highway Loss Institute. 

The institute found that small and midsize cars, such as two-door, sports, and speciality versions, have injury and repair frequencies of 30 per cent. 

While larger cars, stations wagons and vans are around 50 per cent more effective than average claim records. 

For example, a four-door Holden station wagon is 41 per cent less likely than average to be injured in an accident. 

3. The Victorian Medical Association warns about the ‘dangers of hot dogs’ to children’s airways.  

 Researchers claim that even “A bite- sized piece of hot dog” is a choking hazard to children 4 and under. 

Other dangerous foods for children aged nine and under include lollies, nuts, grapes, apples, carrots, and popcorn. 

Exercise Week 3

Home Widgets managing director Sid Entrepreneur told a gathering of Riverside small business owners "they face ruin" if they don't advocate for lower taxes.

Mr Entrepreneur said these taxes will drain 2 million dollars from the Riverside region this financial year.

“Without the makers, the doers and the marketers, there would be no economy,” Mr Entrepreneur said.

Mr Entrepreneur gave a speech about the future of small business to the Riverside Small Business Association at The Community Hall.

Week 3 Selfie Caption

RMIT Student Journalists, Aliya Bilal and Piper Wright captured a selfie at the Melbourne SBS headquarters yesterday afternoon.

Week 4 News Quotes

Sid Entrepreneur Managing Director of Home Widgets has cautioned small business has “fallen by the wayside”.  

“Without the makers and the doers there wouldn’t be a national economy”, said Mr Entrepreneur.  

Mr Entreperneur urged that all “corporations at all levels including that between small business government” for “sustained economic growth”.

“Did you hear how many bureaucrats it takes to change a lightbulb, none they’ll just call for a report,” Mr Entrepreneur said.

Exercise Week 5

More than 40 workers threaten to walk off the job at Home Widgets Manufacturing Plant.

The workers protested the firm’s rejection to increase their wages by 10 percent extend leave allowance to 5 weeks yearly and reduce 2 hours of workload from the 1st of July.

“We have put on the table an offer to the 40 workers of a 4 percent wage increase from 1st July with further increments of two percent a year beginning in the 1987-1988 financial year for the next two years, “said Managing Director, Mr Sid Entrepreneur.

“We would be prepared to give more time off in return for a productivity increase of 5 percent a year 1998-1989. That would be a good improvement from the projected 1987-1988 figure," said Mr Entrepreneur.

The firm produced 15,570 Home Widgets in 1996-1997 an increase from 11 790 the previous year, to meet strengthening market demand, said Mr Entrepreneur.

Three hundred thousand dollars was spent on infrastructure, $25000 on transport costs and $8790 on government charges, as opposed to $6789 from the previous year, said Mr Entrepreneur.

“Our figures are in the annual report. We made a net profit in 1996-1997 of $A1.25 million, this wasn’t a great return for shareholders when you consider our $7.3 million-dollar turnover,” said Mr Entrepreneur.

“Mr Entrepreneur’s figures don’t take into account that since our last pay rise of $13,000 a week, our wages have fallen in real terms by about $14 dollars a week," said Worker’s Spokesperson, Lathe Turner.

Exercise Week 7 - Colour Piece on Piper Wright

When Piper Wright won a scholarship to RMIT University, it was a dream come true. She would be the first person in her family to attend university, a huge milestone for the Yarra Valley teenager.

I’m completely on my own, I have no financial help from my family.”

But university has proven to be way more difficult than she ever imagined.

“I feel like there’s little leeway that universities give to students who are the first ones in their family to go to university, you just get thrown into the deep end, no special treatment or consideration."

“I have no family who’ve been to university it's kind of like the blind leading the blind.”

Piper says she needed was mainly related to the process of enrolment, allocating her timetable and navigating her way through assessments.

“It took me a while to figure out how to enrol and then how to allocate my timetable, then it’s just me figuring out all of my assignments by myself,” she said.

“I love doing university but sometimes I think if I took an extra day off, I could make more money, sometimes It’s just me trying to weigh up whether going to a lecture is more important or is trying to take on an extra shift more important.,”

Piper said she grew up in Victoria's Eastern suburbs and moved to Lakes Entrance where she completed majority of her secondary education. She moved halfway through year 12 to the Yarra Valley.

“When I moved down to Yarra Valley the last couple of months before exams, I suffered anxiety from being forced to do online learning and I felt like I just couldn’t catch up to my peers at all,” she said.

“I find my elective can be unenjoyable at times because the assignments are heavy work and I have this hatred for when somehow all your assignments fall on the same week.”

“We’re in a situation where mental health is just at the highest priority, and we shouldn’t just be piling work onto university students.”

Piper said that she had to transfer to a “snap school” to get her apartment, so she could get more consideration when she applied to RMIT.

“Before I even got my ATAR, I got shortlisted for that scholarship, I put it in straight away. To get into university I had to go through special consideration for emotional and mental abuse to move and get financial support,” she said.

Piper said by the time she submitted her special consideration, she had 10 letters from people ranging from her psychologist to teachers, she had to submit her restraining order against her dad to prove to VCAA that she had to move.

“It was total survival; I don’t remember much of those last couple of months,” Piper said.

Week 10 Pitch

Dear Elle Smith

My name is Aliya Bilal and I'm a student journalist from RMIT. Would you be interested to run a Hard Story about Deputy Mayor of The Darebin City Council Susanne Newton’s opinion The Voice?

I'm writing an article on the topic for my final assignment and must interview a local member of my council about their personal opinions on The Voice. I've been doing extensive research on the topic. I was fortunate enough to interview Susanne Newton and I would love to have my article published in the Darebin City Council Community Newsletter; I could have this delivered by next week.

Kind Regards

Aliya Bilal

[floofers12]

Interesting Dog Boarding Industry

Boarding a canine is helpful to the people who are enamored with pets like a madhouse and love being in their organization. The pet hotel, as a canine loading up office has customarily been referred to as, goes about as a safe house for canines and is once in a while otherwise called a doghouse. There are two sorts of canine boarding places accessible as of now -

(1) Boarding assortment - This is a reasonable option in contrast to a pet-sitter, and saves canines on a brief reason for an imperative measure of cash. Most canine proprietors have frequently communicated their feelings of dread toward the canines being crowded together in deficient spaces in these boarding places.

Nonetheless, the vast majority of these misgivings have been viewed as outlandish since the canine boarding places give creative preparation activities and games for the canines that they keep in their foundations. The canine proprietors, expecting to profit the offices of a pet hotel, move the obligation of keeping up with the canines to the pet hotel faculty who, to abstain from being legitimately punished for displaying languid mentality in their calling, should guarantee that the pets are appropriately cared for.

Other than furnishing the canines with essential measure of food and drink, the pet hotels should likewise guarantee that the canines are getting sufficient measure of ventilation and living space. The spread of infections should be forestalled by reception of reasonable measures that are recommended by a prepared vet. Single or twofold pet hotels all suites with private activity yard.

(2) Rearing assortment - This kind of boarding keeps canines primarily in light of two reasons-

(a) The people or gatherings running the middle do it simply out of interest, with next to no connection to financial increases or,

(b) The proprietors breed the canines to sell them at the right age and time, for a sufficient measure of cash.

People or gatherings keen on getting a permit to run a pet hotel need to remember the accompanying issues -

(a) Open to living offices and sufficient measure of food and drink for the creatures should be guaranteed by those responsible for the business. This is the main errand that a canine boarding community performs.

(b) Important advances should be taken by canine boarding staff to guarantee that unforeseen man-made catastrophes, similar to fire break-outs, don't risk the wellbeing of the canines.

(c) A very much kept up with and precisely refreshed record of all creatures kept in the canine boarding should be available with the experts for true examinations.

In the event that you are searching for a canine boarding office, look at John's Spoiled Dog. There are numerous extraordinary Canine Boarding offices to look over, offering exceptional costs and quality conveniences. They have an extraordinary area in Yarrambat Park green situated in Melbourne Northen rural areas.

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Dog Sitter Melbourne