Blood moon

It was spectacular for those who saw it on Tuesday night and a reminder of how diminutive we are in the face of Mother nature and Father time. Time itself, suddenly seems to be passing very quickly although I thought it was a bit premature for Christmas decorations to be displayed (they’re all out if you’re travelling down Upper Heidelberg Road in Ivanhoe).

Image credit: Mirella Di Lorio (South Melbourne)

Speaking of the moon, Mr Moon at Melbourne’s Luna Park has had a makeover after being neglected over the pandemic and with lighter days and warmer nights upon us – the Night Noodle Markets have started again in the city and the Alphington Twilight Market (below) will be held from 4 pm on Thursday 8 December next month.

If you’re a fan of Asian food, you might like this article on Rosheen Kaul’s guide to wear to eat in Box Hill including the local food court! Cheap and cheerful is definitely the way to go with so many of us on a budget. I also had a great meal on Friday night at hidden surprise Akamaru Japanese near Darebin station – a cut above above your normal suburban fare. Three of us shared the spicy edamame, kingfish ceviche, soft shell crab and mixed Japanese vegetables with a couple of drinks all for less than $100 in total. It is small (6 tables) but a great experience if you’re a local and I will be back. My ex-La Trobe colleagues and I then had a quick drink at nearby card-only bar (and former Mario’s cafe) The Post Inn although had to compete with the young lads singing karaoke-style to the late 80s music playlist. Good on them….

Speaking of new venues, I’ve not visited but vintage bowling alley, beer garden, bar and bistro The Keys in Preston has opened in a refurbished 110 year old warehouse just in time for Christmas.

Lastly on food, I thought you might like a pic of our sourdough loaf from Dougharty Baker (above) delivered last Thursday as it was delicious goodness (and eaten in less than a day)!

COVID has risen its head again and doing the rounds so wishing you a speedy recovery if this is you. It’s been an interesting end to the year with floods, cost of living issues, cybersecurity attacks and a state election now all playing out in the media. I’ve been running around the Rosanna Parklands in recent weeks and have never seen the grass so high – the mozzies and snakes are out so be careful if you’re venturing anywhere near the Yarra river.

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