Coogee, Botany Bay and bikini

Wednesday 16th and day off woke up at 7 so updated my blog for 20 minutes then thought best get ready as meeting Kat at Coogee. So caught train at 8.11 to city and just missed the bus to Coogee so had to wait 10 minutes for the next one. I got to Coogee before Kat so whilst waiting just sat on the Bach overlooking the sea and read my book. We then went to Coogee cafe for breakfast which is one of Coogee's favourite cafe settings, with it's retro decor and perfect casual feel. The cafe is known for been great for breakfast meeting and catching up friends wasn't sure what to have as thought best have something soft. Was tempted with the pancakes but decided on the eggs be duct with salmon was good but the sourdough bread a little hard, also had a smoothie. But somehow afterwards still managed to get something caught in he gap so rinsed afterwards which was fine, but will get annoying if keeps happening.
Then afterward we went for a drive in Kat's car for her show me more off what this area has to offer. First was to Maroubra beach which we were just drove past and had a random cubic cube on the beach which wish I had got a picture of it, Maroubra is one of the most popular locations in Sydney for surfing. We then drove past Kat's house in Maroubra and then onto to La Perouse, La Perouse is a famous historical and indigenous heritage area and features several beaches on both Frenchmans Bay and Congwong Bay sides of the cape. It has a nudist beach in the congwong bay which some people see as a crime since on conservative land. But La Perouse has more to offer than nudist beach as had an old military outpost on Bare Island with a fort and museum but was closed, so couldn't look round. So we drove on to Botany Bay national park where we took a short stroll which backed onto the NSW golf club at Cape Banks and was home to sir ambulance. Kat said last time she was here she saw a seal on the rocks but not this time all we saw was a few golfer's. NSW golf course has a reputation as anmatter of importance to golf in Australia because it is such a significant course and as conditions improved the club became the most sought after membership in Sydney and offers good views over the bay.
It was then back to Coogee beach where Kat dropped me off as she had to head off as at work tonight. I then went and laid on the beach was their nearly 3 and half hours was good but reluctant to go topless at first as no-one appeared to be but thought nobody else knows me so why not. It was then off to melon head for a refreshing drink and another look in the bikini shop which looked at last week. This time had the seafolly bikini I liked which was navy in colour and a bandeau top wasn't sure on string bikini or full bikini went for full pants as went better with the top I felt. I then went to the the little Coogee beach shop to look for present for Nat's birthday couldn't find but bought a kaftan for myself instead. It was then time to head back home.

Work, shopping and dentist.

Saturday 12th January and didn't sleep well last night not sure why. I went for a runty is morning aim to run all the way round but didn't manage it had to keep stopping, I did manage to run 1.57miles. Then had to go to work on a late was a nice shift was 6 staff and still only had 24 patients and even had a little giggle at work. Bianca, Debbie and Gabs off out tonight for Gabs last weekend but I couldn't go out since on a early Sunday, just seems that I haven't been out for a while last night out was New Year.
On a early on Sunday and on B side which wasn't as bad as normal had a few washes but not as many as usual. Had the normal febrile patient of 39 degrees when left was raining and luckily another staff member gave me a lift home. After work was supposed to go meet the girls in city but they had been at Luna park and got very wet. So instead I still went into the city to go do some shopping went to Kookai and must of been their nearly an hour trying on outfits was dress I liked but not 100%. Eventually I decided on the skirt, belt and top seen the other day and got another top so got two different outfits (see picture), met girls back at home. When got home we ordered pizza and watched 'True blood' is an American series about vampires but I didn't know what was happening as not seen all the other series and this was series 5.
On Monday on an early short and was floating today helped with 4 washes, then did the S8 and S4 round. Is always nice when on a early short as morning goes quickly then home finished at 1then hone something to eat for lunch as probably won't want much for tea after dentist. At dentist at 3 and not looking forward to it but wasn't as bad as I expected when pulled tooth out it was black at the bottom which is not a good thing. To get tooth out had to be spilt in half and once tooth pulled out had to have it packed which felt abit strange at first. After dentist went to Rhodes as wanted to buy some soup for tea and bought some pillows to brighten the place up and even better as half price. When got home took some paracetamol to help with the inflammation and changed the pack which was covered in blood, nice!! I then had tea my soup which was fine but thought best stay away from hot drinks at the moment. Bianca off out to sky tower for Gabs last night but didn't really feel up for going.
When woke up had blood on my pillow from where my tooth leaked as took packing out before went to bed, not an attractive look. Tuesday 15th on another early was busy but at least still open to 24 patients but not sure for how much longer think will open to 30 soon. Whilst at work had to continuously rinse my mouth with salt water as supposed to do every 2hours which not sure I did. After I had breakfast felt something caught in the gap and tried rinsing but did not come out so to use a cotton bud which worked not sure best thing to use but did rinse under hot water first. So after work went to Coles to get my soft food and juice since staying away from hot drinks at minute, then laid by the pool for an hour or so. At least one good thing about tooth is that am not having pain from it but just feels strange at the minute.

Balmoral, duck and drinks..

Friday 11th January woke up 7 to speak to mum and dad it seemed to take them forever to connect. Then supposed to be doing something as a house today as I had altered my shift originally to do dolphin cruise but doesn't go on Fridays so Bianca had done with Gabs on Wednesday. So not sure what were doing yet then Jen arrived and decided all off to the beach but which one to go to thought about palm beach but too far, also manly but Gabs choice and been their a few times. Decided to go to Balmoral beach as never been apart from Jen and has a nice long beach, all of it sheltered so people who do not like big waves can go for a swim with ease. Balmoral beach has a nice relaxed vibe with soft white sand, broadwalk, netted swimming enclosure and a bridge to a tiny island. First stop was food but was mainly full meals which didn't really want to just went to kiosk and got Greek salad but could of done with more feta. Was nice to try a different beach as the water is so calm and pristine for a harbour beach, made a change going to the touristy beaches like Bondi and Manly. The surf is virtually non-existent but the ambience is magic and was nice to have a good dip in the sea. Afterwards we got an ice-cream and then walked back to the car whilst admiring all the Beautiful houses.
Once home was quick change decided to put on my new jack wills dress then off to darling harbour to meet Nat and Lou to celebrate Lou's first week at work and them finding a new place. Whilst waiting for them went to look at the Giant Rubber Duck on the water in Darling Harbour for Sydney Festival which was surprising, whimsical and a whole lot of fun for no apparent reason. It feels like Darling Harbour is transformed into a giant bath tub with a very big rubber duck in it and makes you feel like a big kid. It was then for food went to Plate restaurant which specialises in Australian seafood, meat and vegetables delivered everyday. Me and Nat decided to share 4 small Australian plates of garlic prawns, wallaby balls, kangaroo fillet and tempura crocodile was all very nice but think favourite kangaroo and least favourite wallaby. The girls then both wanted pudding but nothing what really jumping out at me so decided to just have fruit platter instead. After food was off to get more pictures of duck as I thought looked better in dark then Lou and Nat when home. So I went to meet Debbie, Bianca and Gabs at the O bar, the O bar is perched 47 floors above the city in the Australian Square building. It offers spectacular 360 degree views of Sydney with a revolving bar. When I got there the girls had a good view sat in the window looking at the city below. Unfortunately their couldn't get me another chair so changed places and view not as good. I ordered a Pink Caipirinha which is Cachaca, smashed strawberry muddled with lime, ginger and mint nectar was nice but stronger than used to. The girls also ordered pudding which not impressed with so complained and got free it free. The O bar was nice as is an experience not to be missed but think prefer sky tower has better views. It was then time to head back to catch the train home.

More work

Wednesday 9th January woke up 8 but went back to sleep til 10 had a lazy morning not really doing much updated blog abit. Then had to go to work as on a late, work still nice at the minute as still only open to 24 patients and had plenty of staff which was good. On Thursday up 8ish went to Rhodes to get my silver sandals fixed as the heel broke on New Years Eve. I also went to collect my parcel which was a dress which I had ordered on eBay a few weeks a nice flowery jack wills dress (see picture). Then it was off to the dentist to get the price for how much it will cost and phoned Bupa who will pay most of it which is a relieve. It was then off to work to meet Hisako for coffee before work was going to go to medico cafe but was shut so just got latte from coffee cart and went to sit outside and arrange to see show. Work was ok and even got time to sit down for abit which was a novelty.

Coogee beach, hot one!!

Tuesday 8th January up at 7.30 to go to gym with Debbie when she finished her night shift and ran on treadmill for 2.09 miles. We then went to Rhodes for breakfast at coffee club had my usual French toast very nice. I then went to the city and Calvin Klein had good sale so bought some more short PJ's with star on this time and a lingerie set. I also went to Kookai and nearly got a skirt, top and belt but not a 100% so didn't buy and was another skirt which I liked but didn't have in this store. I then caught the bus to Coogee from Hyde park (city) which took about 30 minutes the beach was very busy but was the hottest day of the year so far was about 37 degrees. Got to the beach about 1 & Nat came to meet me at beach at 2.30 and bought me a bottle of water which I drunk all off straight didn't realise was so dehydrated. Nat's friend Helen then came to meet us and I went for a dip in the sea which was nice not to cold but probably didn't feel it as so hot. We left the beach at 4 and literally had to run across the sand as so hot, had to leave then as Nat off to view accommodation with Lou. First stop was 'Melonhead' for a 100% natural fruit juice cold treat to keep us cool in summer, Melonhead is number one in Coogee for healthy and delicious food and drinks. It was very nice went for a 'Jett' which was pineapple, rock melon and orange was nice and refreshing just what needed after been on the beach. Me and Helen then looked round some of the shops was a seafolly navy bikini I liked but unfortunately not in my size. We then went to Coogee Bay hotel for a drink which was opposite Coogee beach and has Sydney's biggest beer garden to sit in. It was then time to walk to Nat's and didn't realise Coogee was so hilly and when got to Nat's had to go to Randwick to meet Lou. Whilst waiting for Lou to arrive we sat and had a drink then when she arrived, they had to go scan all the forms as taking the house their viewed today. It was then to where Lou staying as staying at her friends at the moment and Nat cooked tea chicken stir fry. I then had to walk back to Randwick to catch bus to city and once in city 1st stop was Woolworth's to get a fan and so glad got as very hot tonight in my bedroom.

More work, dentist and cinema

Sunday 6th January on an early and got up ok which I didn't think I old since got in late last night, at work still had lots of washes but got fished early probably as a Sunday. Then was to Coles for groceries and then to lay round pool for 2 hours as still nice weather. Later on was eating my Hershey cookie 'n' creme bar when broke my tooth again which I had a feeling was going to happen as fit a crack in tooth. I then spoke home on Skype which is the 1st time since before Christmas as their have eventually got new router. For tea only had soup as was abit reluctant to have anything else due to tooth and I took down the Christmas tree as thought best do it before gets to 12 days after Christmas.
Monday 7th had a nice day at work still only had 18 patients but opening to 24 patients so had a few admissions. Had emailed dentist Triniti dental clinic in Rhodes last night and had phoned me back and could see me today at 15.30. So asked NUM if I could work though my lunch which said was fine and only had to write in 3 notes as had 2 students. It was then off to the dentist which wasn't looking forward as I know last time told me would need a crown if broke again. Unfortunately the dentist told me even worse news that abcess and probably cyst under tooth and the best option would be to have it removed. I got abit upset at this as a lot to take in that have to have tooth out when not expecting but said wont effect which is one good thing. So decided not to have tooth out today and come back next week when feel abit braver but started me on a course of antibiotics. Was told once tooth out will need to wait about 6 months til I can get anything done and options are removable denture, bridge or implant think implant best obviously most expensive option. When got home was big spider in downstairs toilet which Bianca found but afraid said would try to get rid of but too big for me. Also never sure if poisonous or not but when off out for run saw next door neighbour who kindly got rid of it for me by hitting with broom. I then went for my run and only managed 1.29miles as got a stitch then phoned mum quickly when back to tell her about tooth. Haidee then texted me and invited me to go to cinema in city to 'Life Of Pi' which is about a young man who survives a disaster at sea and is hurtled into an epic journey of adventure and discovery. While cast away, he forms an amazing and unexpected connection with another survivor...a fearsome Bengal tiger. Decided to wear one if my new kookai dresses which haidee said looked lovely and my star scarf which Hayley bought and glad I took as was cold in cinema. We even got to see it in 3D and was free as Haidee had free tickets so even better some of the special effects were eye popping and had some lovely images. It was a good film but will definitely have to read the book as told the book is even better as film doesn't get across some of the morals like the book. But unluckily I had missed the last train so had to get the bus home and missed my stop at concord as kept nodding off so got off at Rhodes good job two stops to choose from and got in at 1.45am.

1st work of 2013 and bridge climb

Unfortunately back to work today on Wednesday 2nd January and woke up 9ish and kept thinking of going for a run but never happened. But I did start to sort out picture for my photo album which got on Groupon and looks like will be a long process. At work on a late and was nice only had 18 patients but had a few patients transferred. Then on Thursday on a early with Debbie, as Bianca now on annual leave for 2 weeks to lend with Gabs. At work was another nice shift was floating which I like as no writing to do but did a lot of S8 and 4's. After work went to the gym and ran on treadmill for 1.90 miles then went to Rhodes for tea had savoury crepe and smoothie and then grocery shopping.
On Friday 4th on another early still only had 18 patients was ok apart from one staff went missing over an hour with a patient. When got home went and laid round the pool for 2hrs as was still nice so shame not to make the most of it. Another early on Saturday and work busy had lots of washes to do but still done in plenty of time. Was a shame to be at work as looked such a nice day outside was over 30 degrees but when finished joined over round pool for a hour.
It was then off to do the Sydney Bridge Climb at 19.55 which is a truly unique way to see Sydney, its sparkling harbour and surrounds. Since when I did it 7 years ago i did the daylight decided to do night time this time as twilight abit more expensive. We were not sure if we would all be doing the same bridge climb but Bianca and Gabs was 10 minutes in front of us. As soon as go though to the bridge climb have breath test and fill in forms then time to put our suits on left my shorts and top underneath then get rest of our equipment and training for climbing bridge. It took about an hour for all this then it was time to go climb the bridge and see all Sydney has to offer in this magnificent city. By the time we got outside it was already dark but have headlamps to help you and was fortunate to have near perfect weather and clear views across the Harbour. I couldn't believe how well organised everything was and every aspect of your safety was taken care of, as safely connected to the bridge. Staff were friendly and helpful as soon as you walk in the door, it was an easy walk the only bit I didn't like was when I had to walk down the stairs as legs went like jelly but were fine once at bottom. Our guide 'Todd' was very funny and made me smile loads during the climb so the time seemed to fly, also during in climb could see Bianca and Gabs in front of us all the way. On completing we were given a certificate, hat and group photo and free trip up pylon. Then it was optional to buy others I bought a cd with 2 photos on as better value then can print off myself. We didn't actually finish the climb til 23.30 and I would highly recommend it must see if in Sydney if not afraid of heights. It was then time to head home not before stopping at McDonalds first for food had first apple pie didn't taste same as English one, got home at 1am

New Years Day and beach

New Year's Day 1st January and start of 2013 woke up at 7 but luckily went back to sleep and got up at 9am instead. Was only me and Sarah up at this time the others didn't all surface til 11, Debbie was the first up at 10.30. Wasn't sure what the plans were for today had mentioned about going to Bondi beach last night but others not keen. Debbie at work, Sarah off to meet her friend later on, Bianca and Gabs decided to just go to the beach but Nat had texted so off to meet her and Lou at Bondi. Caught the train with Sarah to the city and then got the bus from Hyde park straight to Bondi and got there at 13.30. Got to Bondi before Nat and Lou and first stop once we met was food went to Nikos had lamb wrap Lou had chicken Caesar salad with poached egg on which looked very nice. It was then time to hit the beach got to the beach at 15hrs and was very busy but got a good spot at top of beach not far from lifeguards hut. Nat and Lou went for a dip in sea and whilst there the alarm and had no idea what it was for but then realised as the shark alarm. So everyone had to get out of the sea whilst boats and helicopters lifeguard one and news 19 luckily there never found a shark so people could go back in after about 30 minutes. But it put me off going into the sea so I just stayed on the beach and finished my book, which was my aim for the day. We left the beach at 7 and went for a coffee when we left the buses were very busy so got the same bus as Nat and Lou to Bondi junction. Then I had to wait about 20 minutes for my next bus and eventually got home at 10 and couldn't wait to wash off the sand. Kat had texted and asked if saw Edel and said 'No' and realised that Edel had sent me the wrong no wonder I never got a reply.

New Years Eve and cruise

New Years Eve monday 31st December and not at work so went to Rhodes first thing with Gabriella (Gabs). First stop was post office to post dads present and collect my parcel which was from Ellie a lovely photo frame and pen with Ellie on. Then it was to coffee club as Gabs not had breakfast I had eaten so just had a mango smoothie which was abit thicker than normal but still good. Gabs then went to have her toes shellac'd whilst she was having it done I went to get some pictures printed but was still done by Gabs. When she was finished we went to buy alcohol and nibbles for tonight got some sparkling wine. When we got back we went round the pool for 2 hours was busy couldn't get a sunbed Sarah met us there. It was then time to head back at 3ish and start getting ready before the girls got back so at least we could of had shower and time to start the drinks. Whilst the others were getting ready I made sausages baps so at least we got something to line our stomach before more drinks as didn't think nibbles sufficient enough. Decided to wear my red one shoulder which bought back from home with my new silver clutch bag that got for Xmas from Rachel. But was having issues with my hair wanted to curl it but it wasn't doing as I wanted so ended up doing a small quiff.
It was then time to head into the city catching train at 5.45pm which we made so got to city at 6.15 and first stop was cafe for espresso for Gabs and Bianca as Gabs flagging but did only arrive yesterday from UK. When we got to King St Wharf Darling Harbour there was already a queue to get on the boat and Nat not there yet, she was supposed to be their 6ish but knew she would get their after as always late. Going on the Good Time Harbour Cruises for New Year's Eve where get to fetch the New Year in watching the Sydney Harbour Light Parade. It was an All Inclusive Package which included food, entertainment and drinks/alcohol to ensure this will be a time to remember. When we got on first went upstairs to get drinks got a strawberry daiquiri which was ok but abit watery to what am used to, boat left harbour at 7pm. It was quite busy upstairs so went downstairs and stood downstairs at front of the vessel where we eventually met Nat and Lou and time for pictures. Was time for more drinks but decided against the daiquiri this time and had my usually vodka and diet coke again. We then got to see the first lot of fireworks which were very good as on new year is two firework displays one at 9pm for families then again at midnight. It was then time to dance the night way on the dance floor with Nat and Lou as others mainly stayed outside. Edel (Kat's friend) had sent me a message on Facebook with her number and sent her a message but no reply as was also on cruise with boyfriend but never saw her. Though out the night their kept coming round with nibbles which was a great selection of food but only had little even had oysters but thought best not as not sure if had before. Then we got to see the New Years Eve celebrations first was to see the giant red lips in the middle of the harbour bridge which counted down to midnight before the fireworks started. The fireworks didn't disappoint it was great and amazing to see the city skylines explode in gold, pink, green and blues. Sydney is the first major city in the world to welcome in 2013 which has to set the standard of the rest of the world and I feel it did in spectacular form. All the boats on he harbour all had lights on and lit up the Sydney harbour I think the best bit was the firework fountain from the bridge. After the fireworks was time to do some more dancing got back to King St Wharf Darling Harbour at 1.30 and my feet ached but hadn't sat down much. Decided that we didn't want to go partying anywhere else so went to catch the train back which were running all night. But first Debs, Bianca and Gabs went to get McDonalds, me and Sarah waited at town hall and we got back home at 3.30. It was a amazing night and think will go down in history as one of my best New Years Eve's.

Work only 3 days, Nandos and nails

Friday 28th December got up 9.30 but not sure why as on a late had lazy morning didn't really do much. At work was busy even though we are only open to 16 patients as on my side out of 8 patients 7 were all cares.
Then on Saturday on a early short shift had 8 patients and had special for 2 patients. Was a nicer shift than last night but still felt like we still had more than 8 patients. But always nice to finish at 1 instead of 3.30, after work popped to city to meet girls. First stop food but not before going to peter alexander which is Australia's leading sleepwear company to buy some short pjs since getting warm now. Then it was off to Nandos for food which wasn't as good as English as couldn't get some of the foods. It was then off to do more shopping and get dads bday present which I got. I then went to Apple at 17.30 to sort out my MacBook the girls went home. The Apple lady managed to sort out my MacBook had to download my contacts from my hotmail, but lost done info. It was was then back home to watch James Bond Quantum of solace. Which was good but still think my favourite the new one or casino royale.
On Sunday 30th on another early short and ward didn't seem as busy had 9 patients between 2 of us. After work went to Rhodes to have my toe nails shellac'd, had over 100 colours to choose from. Was difficult to decide which one went for a purpose had a pedicure aswell but not best. Was hoping post office would be open then could collect my parcel but unfortunately was shut. At night updated blog and watched chuck again met Gabriella (Bianca's sister) as arrived today

Lazy morning, shopping and meal

Thursday 27th December and day off and nothing actually planned to do as everyone else at work. So had a lazy morning even though I was up early to speak home but Skype still not working and they realised its actually the modem not working, will need new one. I went to Rhodes quickly for groceries and to get more hangers again as mine are all full. Check post and got belated christmas present from Mum and dad a bracelet (see picture) very nice. When got back relaxed round the pool for abit and went for a swim. Then later on popped into city and bought some birthday presents for mum and Sharon, very organised. It was then off to Apple store to sort out my MacBook so attended workshop but still didn't sort out my problem off syncing all contacts so need to come again. Debbie then met me there and we went to Darling harbour to meet Natalie and her new friend Louise who just over from England to work a year, unfortunately Bianca working a double. Before we met them me and Debbie had a walk down the Harbourside restaurants and decided on either plate or olive. We decided to eat at Olivo an Italian cuisine with an Australian flair to the menu which had a deal on 2 courses for $35 decided on main and pudding. Olivo has a magnificent water and city views, the décor has a modern feel with a warm, welcoming ambience. The food was good but the service was abit slow had a nice chocolate melt in the middle cake but could of done with more melt in middle. Also good to have a catch up swapped presents with Nat and nice to meet Lou before new year.

Boxing Day

Boxing Day up early to supposedly speak to mum and dad on Skype but not working so ended up phoning them instead. I then got the train to city and got into the city for 10.15 and first stop kookai which had to queue to get it. Their had a very good sale most things 50% off so I bought 2 dresses and got 2 for Bianca through a numerous amount of phone calls. We also got Debbie the bracelet to match her necklace which got her for Christmas and going to give tonight as secret Santa for our next Christmas Day. It was then to Nine West to see if there had a sale on which their did was 40% off so had to buy those shoes which I liked. Then my aim was to go watch the Sydney to Hobart race which starts from Nielson Park in Sydney Harbour. The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is an annual ocean yacht race, considered to be one of the most difficult in the world. It starts at Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day and finishes a few days later in Hobart just before New Year's Eve celebrations it is approximately 1,170 kilometres (630 nautical miles) away. The start of the colourful spectacle can be seen from many vantage points around Sydney Harbour. So my aim was to get to Watson Bay as supposedly get a good view from there but wasn't sure if ferry would be running so decided to catch bus. Put in transport link but it changed it to Watson road instead of bay so was at wrong stop which I knew it was in away. But I knew it would be too late to get to the other stop in time to see the start of the race at 13.00 hrs. So instead I went to the top of the Opera house in the hope of seeing some of the yacht was there for over an hour. I did see some yachts but unfortunately I don't think it was ones from the yacht race so I never got to see it, will have to cone nest year instead. Afterwards went to botanical gardens and took a few pictures in black and white off the opera house & bridge and the little train.
It was then off to get something to eat went to the Pie Face as still not tried a pie yet. The Pie Face pies are gourmet pies either savoury or sweet which are handmade especially for you. Their are baked fresh every day which are deep-dish pie filled with the freshest ingredients and the aim is not to go away hungry. I tried the chunky steak pie which was good but messy should of used a knife and fork but will definitely try again as lots of flavours to choose from, might even try sweet next time. I then went to look round the shops again and it was still very busy see picture enclosed and went to look round David jones. Where I bought myself a Clairns gift set as which had the one step orange exfoliating cleanser in it. I then went to look at shoes and found some lovely jimmy Choo's but weren't in the sale were silver sandals but still over $500. It was then to look at coach bags which were in the sale but still expensive and saw Viv from work there. By this time was 5ish so decided best head back for my Christmas dinner again and missed train and phone dead. So by time got home dinner was ready having roast chicken, mash, carrots and broccoli and with Jen's gingerbread stuffing and bread sauce with crackers. Was very nice then time to open our Christmas presents got a star necklace from Jen, star bracelet from Bianca and a picture frame from Debbie. Anyone would think that their was a theme for me stars as the picture frame also had stars on. Then we had room for pudding Christmas pudding with brandy custard as have to have Christmas pudding on Christmas Day.

Christmas Eve and day

Christmas Eve on another late so before work me and Debbie went to Rhodes to get our Boxing Day food as having another Christmas Day and Coles wasn't as busy as what I thought it would be. At work was nice we had lots of discharges so their could go home for Christmas and once left we only had 15 patients. But we had one patient go home without his medications as didn't listen to us and wasn't happy when we phoned him to say forgotten it and couldn't come back but luckily his friend could come back tomorrow. When finished work it was raining and had to wait 30 minutes for Debbie but I had no umbrella so got to wet.
Christmas Day all three of us at work today on an early and didn't want to get up. It didn't feel very Christmassy where we live probably because where we live is mainly Asians who don't really celebrate Christmas. Also at work didn't feel that Christmassy even though we had our Christmas decorations but no music playing not like at home. I feel back in England we celebrate Christmas better on the wards as all patients get a present but not here so just felt like a normal day for them. I got a Christmas present from Mona just some hand cream which was nice but felt bad as not got her anything. We did get our Christmas lunch provided had choice of turkey or ham I had turkey but was not the best like plastic, also veg frozen ones which were cold and no roast potatoes. For pudding was supposed to be Christmas pudding or fruit and custard but no pudding left so had fruit was just cocktail fruit. Throughout the day it had rained most of day and even had thunder so when walking home with Debbie we got very wet even though had umbrella and feet so wet might aswell not had shoes on, Bianca luckily got lift back as finished before us.
When got home was time to get changed and then open our Christmas presents think I had the most presents. I got some lovely presents a camera, pandora charm, Toms shoes, cardigan, a calendar with the family on mainly off Ellie. From my friends Rachel got me a silver clutch bag, Nat got me some bracelets, hayley a star scarf and picture of godsons, the girls got me a Michael Kor Estée Lauder make up set in a nice shiny bag. I have also still got some presents to come as awaiting Ruth's we got Bianca a panettone since half Italian think she liked. Then Jen and Lisa arrived to take us to Jen's for our Orphan Christmas, which was for all the Orphans staying in Sydney over Christmas who was lonely and looking for a good time. At the Christmas shack (hot tub included) got dinner, $10 Secret Santa gift and a pool to lounge in and hot tub. All we had to do was volunteer a favourite dish I took along cheese and biscuits as didn't have much time to make something. Bianca and Debbie did ginger biscuits and pigs in blankets or lamb blankets as used lamb sausages not pork ones. When got there was about 15 of us in total and I foolish start at the table with the fruit and cheese so kept nibbling at it with Jen's homemade mulled wine. Our main food was ham, roast veg and potatoes, bread sauce Jen's delicious gingerbread stuffing and some Chinese dishes was so much food very nice. Then had to have a rest before dessert unfortunately we couldn't use the pool or hot tub as was still raining. When time for dessert we had mince pies, Christmas mini cupcakes and pavlova berry yoghurt dessert which was delicious had to have two portions. It was then time to swap Secret Santa gifts which was just a token gift to swap on the day I got a chocolate scrabble set. We left about 10ish as the Debbie and Bianca both at work tomorrow got a taxi back and it was a very enjoyable first Christmas in Sydney. When got back I spoke to Sharon on Skype before I went to bed and phoned dad to wish him a happy Christmas then was bed not before watching a Christmas film on TV.

Fortune teller and work

So me and Debbie off to have our fortune told today on Sunday 23rd December at Argyle Oracle at 10am our session was $50 for 30 minutes. I got to go in first and saw Eliane who specialises in clairvoyance, tarot and gypsy cards, crystal ball, aura reading and spiritual guidance. She made me shuffle the cards and then choose 13 (I think) which were dealt out in front of me, then I am self protected which I have been since childhood. I haven't found my place to live yet and sydney is not it but will find my place come December next year not before leaving sydney in february to go to desert. I will continue to travel but will be more of a yearly holiday and sees me going to South America at some point to find myself. She saw my desire to have children and sees a boy in the future and will become a vegetarian not sure about that as enjoy my meat to much unless I have a bad experience. I have a good career in nursing and sees me specialising where I will get to choose who I want to work with. In April I will ride a horse and says I am a very tactile person who needs to be a whirlwind and start to become more selfish. It was then Debbie's turn to go and whilst waiting looked round shop a found out my Australia birth sign is Koala which means gifted, intelligent, caring and protective. When Debbie came out it was quite bizarre as also said she is going to go to South America aswell, so we might go together. So thought fortune teller was ok but we will know more if it starts to come true but said we will have to go again in about 6months time. I then headed back home as want to relax before I started work Bianca then came to meet Debbie to go for lunch. When I got back home I went to lay round pool for abit to chill out was only there for about an hour. It was then time to head to work and was quite nice to start at 15.30 for a change work was very chilled only had 24 patients.

Madme Tussaud's

This morning Saturday 22nd went to gym with Bianca and Debbie and ran 1.47 miles. Aim to book bridge climb today Bianca did online but me and debbie decided to book in store since off to shop. So first stop at darling harbour was ATS to book bridge climb went for 5th January at 7.55pm as decided on night time as done day before and twilight about $100 more than night one. Then was time to go to Madame Tussaud's first we got to meet historical greats where you got to navigate the sea wearing a sailors hat with captain cook. Got to meet Ned Kelly who was an Irish Australian bushranger, Debbie had picture with sister Mary Mackillop a Australian Roman Catholic nun. Then off to the leaders zone to give an on screen speech beside Julia Gillard, pose with Barack Obama in the Oval office and hear the royal fanfare as I sat with the Queen. Off to the sports zone next to stand on the Olympic podium with Dawn Fraser and debbie to see the cameras flash whilst holding a winning medal. Then off to pose with Shane Warne for dad and got to dress up in all the cricket equipment was quite fun, really wanted to sit in golf buggy but kid not moving. It was then off to be a pink lady in the shake shack with sandy from the musical Greece, saw Rihanna, Keith Urban and Kylie. Could pretend to do the moonwalk but just posed with Michael Jackson and got to show my music talent by playing the drums with Jimmy Barnes.
It was then off to get abit of culture by testing our science knowledge with Albert Einstein but decided against been patient for Victor Chang. Next was TV section where got to be interviewed by Oprah and got to meet the famous Australian soap stars Alf Stewart on Home & Away and Harold Bishop from Neighbours. It was then to meet iconic film stars in a movie themed studio got to sit with Audrey Hepburn having breakfast at tiffany's. Pose with Paul Hogan a.k.a Crocodile Dundee in front of a live movie camera and also got to meet great movie characters such as Wolverine and Iron Man plus lots lots more! My favourite character had to be E.T. where I got to take Elliott's place in the scene that saw E.T. and Elliott soaring on a BMX against the stunning backdrop of the moon. It was then to walk through the A list corridor to be greeted by Nicole Kidman and Leonardo Di Caprio before moving into the A list zone. Where I got to have Christmas with Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt then to jump on stage with Lady Gaga. The journey had then come to an end and time to get picture as had to get my favourite ones E.T and Michael Jackson.
It was then to find somewhere to eat but not sure what we wanted walked up to Darling Quarter but then ended up going to Waterfront at Harbourside, Darling Harbour. The Waterfront Grill offers a relaxed environment where you can sit back and enjoy everything that Sydney has to offer. I wasn't really sure what I fancied so had a beef noodle salad which wasn't really a salad at all as had no lettuce was replaced by the noodles. Also had to have a glass of oyster bay wine as was happy hour and then had a banana spilt for old times but wasn't as good as I remember but did have when I was younger. When went to pay charged us normal price for wine as said was only house wine but said it didn't state it on sign so got for happy hour price of $4. It was then off to the Rocks to book our fortune teller at Argyle Oracle for tomorrow as was no space for today's a shutting shortly. We then went to Opera Bar for more drinks tried the other cocktail jug 'Pimms Twist' which was Pimms, Limoncello, Prosecco, cucumber, mint, summer fruit and topped with lemonade. I liked it but Debbie wasn't that keen on it said preferred the other one with vodka and apple juice so she only had one glass and had rest of the Pimms twist, then was off home.

Lazy day

Friday 21st December had lie in didn't get up til 10 but I had been waking on and off from 7.30ish so wasn't the best night sleep. I then went to meet Hisako at Rhodes at Navigator had scone and latte how very British off me but the scones won't as nice as English ones. As the scones came with jam and cream but scones were warm so the cream melted which not good. Was good to have a catch up to arrange to go see a show come new year but which one La soirée or spiegelworld. Think decided to go see spiegelworld which is a travelling circus off the most beautiful, daring and incredibly artists. I then went to do some Christmas shopping as had to buy the girls a secret Santa gift which I got them both the same thing. When got back watched 'Chuck' and updated blog and I also went for a run but only managed 1.59 miles. At night me and Debbie were going to get something to eat at food at Rhodes and then cinema but food court shut. So decided to go to the rocks again for last week off bizarre but was light when we were there and definitely better at night but was alley with lampshades hanging. We had food at a cafe near the rocks which looked to do lovely desserts which w eyed up last time we were here. So went there and had kangaroo burger and then the lemon meringue pie which looked so good and didn't let down..Debbie had chocolate meringue pie.

Nights and Moonlight cinema

Monday 17th December my first night shift of 3 and only had 7 patients but for some reason handover seemed to take forever, it was busy to start with then settled down and was not too bad a shift. On Tuesday I slept til 1ish then went to city with Bianca at 2ish to get Debbie's Christmas present which we managed to get actually got her 2 things and did it budget off $100. I also saw some nice shoes which I liked at Nine West which were black lace trend peep toe heels but decided to wait for sales as don't need now. We got back at 5ish and I lay round pool and had a swim to chill out before I had to go do another night shift. At work we had a patient fall but luckily wasn't serious and we had a bank staff come to help who was very lazy and was falling asleep on the table then had to handover 1st.
On Wednesday 19th woke up 11 but then luckily went back to sleep til 1.15 which is when I got up and went to Rhodes to collect my parcel. When got back went to the pool sunbathed for abit and went for a swim, then went to gym with Debbie and Bianca and ran on treadmill for 1.04 miles. Bianca made tea for us meatballs and spaghetti, was very nice will definitely have the meatballs were filled with cheese from Coles. My last night was ok and so glad my last one, still only had 7 patients and was lots of food as had Christmas party on ward. At about 2.30 felt so tired and thought going to fall asleep on the table luckily but so glad to go on break at 3 and slept for 30 minutes.
When finished night on Thursday morning spoke to mum for abit before bed but didn't sleep well woke up at 11.30 so probably only had 2 and half hours. Once up I hoovered, did laundry and sat outside in sun and updated blog was just thinking of going to pool but then sun went in so went for a run instead did 1.34 miles. I then met the girls and Jen at Rhodes to get stuff for our picnic tonight as off to the moonlight cinema. When got back Jen made her mulled wine and Bianca prepared the chicken then it was time to catch the train to central and bus to centennial park. When got to centennial park was already busy so we were near the back and looked like would still get a good view. So time to set up the blankets and have our picnic first was chicken sandwiches, Brie on bread, crisps, homemade mince pies and the lovely mulled wine which was still warm. The film we were off to see was 'Intouchables' which is based on a true story of friendship between a handicap millionaire (Francois Cluzet) and his street smart ex-con caretaker (Omar Sy). It is an uplifting comedy about friendship, trust and human possibilities of an unlikely odd couple who give each other a new lease on life, this French comedy-drama is almost irresistibly engaging. I really enjoyed the film and buddy movies don't come more moving, funnier and more successful than The Intouchables. I am not one for subtitle film but this film hits all the sweet spots a feel good movie must, now one of my top 10 movies