What a disappointing year – no US Clair relatives have made it down under!! Understandable when considered against the background of SARS and the uncertainty that we all feel about the security situation throughout the world. We must and will overcome these problems and make it possible for all the kids and babies in our family to continue the reunion tradition.

Now back to our lack of visitors. We only seem to get a good holiday when someone visits. Bob has been so busy in his new job as Electoral Commissioner that he really needs a break. Someone has to help out and come visit!!

We enjoyed a mini-reunion of our own at Christmas with the Matthews clan returning from Hong Kong and Jordan and locally from Emerald and Yeppoon. Our new deck and back garden were the perfect setting and Santa enjoyed having Mums-to-be on each knee (Kathy and Kylee). Tom and Matt were more aware of the tree and presents and we all joined in that fun.

Bob has been working at improving his golf (new clubs and lessons) but can’t buy time. Roll on retirement. We both continue to enjoy Monday night tennis. I am still enjoying my floral art and organize the church flowers at St. Thomas’. Along with three others, I do the flowers at Government House and love the abundance of flowers and the opportunity to try my hand at the large formal arrangements. Even manage tea with the Butler occasionally!!

Mum (Irene, daughter of Bridget Clair) was 88 in May. She is still well, lives independently and loves her garden.

Some of you will have seen pictures of our third grandchild Jack William Cranny born on 2 April. Kath and Mark are doing well in Yeppoon. Kath is filling in her “spare time” as a mother of three small boys by building houses for sale or rent.

And again, many of you will have heard about Ben and his surgery for the removal of a brain tumour on 31 March. After 21 days in intensive care, five weeks in rehabilitation and six weeks of radio therapy he is now home for recovery prior to heading back into rehab. In essence he has to re-learn all the basic motor skills we all take for granted. The long term prognosis is good but what we need is time, patience and prayer. On that point, we have been overwhelmed by the messages of love and support from all over the world. And a special mention for Donna who has been just wonderful in her care for Ben.

Ben and Donna were to attend today’s reunion but that was not possible. We know that there will be future reunions. They are something of a magnet for us and we sill have vivid memories of the 1979 and 1981 versions.

Have a great day, enjoy each other’s company and keep the tradition alive.

Love to you all, Claire