Getting Ready for Tassie

     Tomorrow Steve, Andrea, Adam, Owen, Olivia, and I fly to Tasmania. We'll be celebrating both New Year's and Andrea's birthday there on December 31st. Sorry, Zach, we'll be missing your birthday in Seattle yet again this year. After being in France last year at this time and in Australia this year, I promise we'll make up for it next December 31st!
     Two days before Christmas, Steve and I headed into downtown Sydney. It was actually our first touristy day in Sydney since arriving in early November. The weather was perfect, so we took the ferry from Circular Quay to Parramatta. Here are our obligatory, iconic Sydney Harbor shots.

 

     We also discovered an authentic French creperie at Circular Quay that we must try before we leave Australia. (It was recommended by a French baker here.)

     On Christmas morning we were woken up nice and early by an eager Olivia and Owen. As soon as Nana Penny and Aunt Rachel (Adam's mother and sister) arrived to join us, the official present opening began. 

 

Wool hats made by Nana Penny + Santa lollies.

Kiwi Kids

Ribbon Girl

Ribbon Boy

The Elf Family (sans Owen) - straight from Hobbiton, NZ

 

     Later in the day it was HOT, so it was time to head to the park for the traditional Christmas barbie. Plenty of sunscreen and cold libations needed...

 
     Then it was back home to play with all the X-mas loot!

Olivia in heaven with her bunny robot "Loveheart."
 

Owen & Andrea building Legos. 
 

     This morning was playground time while Andrea began the family packing for Tasmania.

 

Jump! 

 

 

     Then Grandpa very kindly went to Kmart and brought home a backyard wading pool. Perfect for an 85'F summer's day!

Yes, the kids did join me 😀

See you next time in Tasmania!