We've had variable success with the picnic. Late December is near high summer, and last year it was so hot we didn't bother. As it is we have to choose a date about a month ahead of time. So it's hit or miss on the weather.

This year we agreed on the 19th, and the weather seemed to be obliging us by remaining mild. A week ahead of time the Bureau of Meteorology gave the long term forecast of 13 to 19, showers clearing and windy. Unfortunately this remained the forecast, and was pretty accurate on the day (13.2 to 17). I looked out at ~4.30am and saw sheets or rain blowing down the road.

In the morning we packed up and set off, arriving at the Botanic Park at 10.30am. Rain was intermittent, it was dark and windy. At 11am I contacted the former President, and after telling her how dim the chances seemed, everyone else showed up. I hurriedly rang her back to say it was on.

There were some other Park users, but it was pretty empty for the time of year. Usually it's packed with end of year functions. Two years ago the most annoying brat from another group came over and set up a cricket pitch over our spot. Twice. The first time a woman from his group came over and told him not to, the second time it was me. And I was quite happy to do so.

We set up under the canopy of a tree, with a tarpaulin covered in blankets. Those with folding chairs were happy to be off the ground. The sun came out and went back in. It rained and stopped. Pigeons appeared and we threw them bread. Then a huge wind came, scattering the birds and blowing through the picnic with a vengeance. Paper plates went everywhere, people braced against the pressure and the Treasurer yelled. She'd been hit in the eye by a plate, but it wasn't severe. The drama was over.

After two and a half hours we'd had our fill, so we packed up all the damp things in the damp esky and left the damp park. Christmas cards had been exchanged, but as usual none by me. Wouldn't want to disappoint.