rubywoo

It's not very often we're near Shepp, but when we are we always visit the SPC factory! I find the prices to be even cheaper than the Ballarat store, and there is a much bigger variety too.

The best savings can be made on unlabeled, often dinted cans by the carton. They also have a great range of personal care items (toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo etc) for ridiculously cheap prices.

There is plenty of free 2hr car parking right in front of the store, and their shopping trolleys require a $1 or $2 coin (or similar sized token) to be released.

Don't forget to take your RACV card, as members get an additional 5% discount (and 10% off at the Peaches Cafe next door).

This is the first time we've eaten there since it recently changed hands. The entire building has been extensively renovated, and it no longer has the old country pub feel, it's very modern and "inner city". The bar menu is no longer as extensive, and is much more costly ($29 for the fish and chips bar meal!) The service was great, and the outdoor dining area is just lovely in summer. I had the salt and pepper calamari, which was nice enough, but the calamari was very oily and heavy feeling. This was our favourite pub until the new owners took over, and I'm sad to say I'm no longer such a big fan.

The Mill Markets is one of my fave places to just wander around. Some items are overpriced (in my opinion), and I often find the clothes are so crammed onto the racks that it's very difficult to browse through them. It's often quite cold inside the warehouse too, especially in winter. That said, I have found some absolutely amazing dresses and decor items there. If you are into retro and vintage - it's for you!

I started seeing Brad a few months back to try and regulate my hormones. He is very professional (sometimes running a little late though), he explains what he is doing and why, and he is very friendly and chatty. His room is lovely and calming too, but a little noisy during recess time at the school across the road. A return appointment is $60 and runs for ~45 mins, and any traditional Chinese medicine is extra (around the $15 mark).

Papa Mio's is a great little spot to grab something for lunch - their ciabattas and wraps are really yum and fresh. I usually get the toasted chicken schnitzel ciabatta ($9), and their vanilla slice is great for a treat. They also have a range of homemade pies (chilli mushroom sounds great!) and some gorgeous looking and smelling bread. It can get busy during lunch time, but the service is quick. The two entrances does make it a little confusing sometimes regarding who should be served first though.

I surprised my mum and grandma with a trip to high tea at the James Street Bakery. It's only held on the last Sunday of every month from 2-4pm, and you need to book and pay in advance (cost is $45pp). We dined on amazing sweets and savouries, all presented on mismatched china, along with plenty of tea. We also could take the leftovers home with us. The month we went it was booked out, and as such, it was quite noisy inside... that was the only downside. It'd be a great venue for a hens day or bridal shower, I think.

I tried Shannon Avenue Dental Care after a horrible past experience, and found Dr Schade really lovely and comforting. She noticed how frightened I was, and put me at ease (even though she couldn't complete the work because I freaked out). She then had to perform my fillings under a general anesthetic at Geelong Private, and she was fantastic. The following day I had my bite assessed, and I haven't had any problems since. I am hoping that with her help, I might be able to eventually overcome my terrible fear of the dentists.