It turns out Australia was way too interesting and my schedule too busy to allow me to do these posts (and you, the reader) justice. I’m home now and settling back into my routine, so I’ll pick up where I left off. Still more to tell about Adelaide. In fact Adelaide Part Two was a bit of a rush job and has been revised and more photos added, so you may want to take another look at that one before continuing.

On Tuesday, April 9th, we headed first to the Gorge Wildlife Park (about 40 minutes northeast of Adelaide) for my first real encounter with wild Australia.

Brittany and Andy got up close and personal with a few of the locals, like this quokka. Look closely for the celebrated little smile.

The ring-tailed lemurs loved all the attention (and the treats).

Then on to the Barossa Valley for a bit more wine tasting.

We didn’t have a reservation anywhere and there were a LOT of vineyards and wineries, so first we had a light lunch at Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop and bought all manner of delectable treats. Then we headed to Jacob’s Creek, the one label I’d at least heard of.

At first we were disappointed to hear they were expecting a tour group any minute and couldn’t accommodate us, but just down the road we found the delightful and very welcoming Kies Family Wines. Brittany and I tasted lovely wines and we ordered a bit more lunch, mostly for Andy, but fortunately, he shared.

So even after a busy week of travel and non-stop activity, Australia continued to surprise me and surpass my expectations. Of course, how could I not be enchanted by those furry and feathery faces? And the wine tasting was all the nicer by finding an unpretentious, super-friendly staff, who managed to produce the gorgeous charcuterie board even after the kitchen was technically closed for the day.

Wishing you friendly encounters, delicious flavors and unexpected cuteness to brighten your day in these challenging times.

Next up: Kangaroo Island