Sydney aquamarine and car hire

Monday 16th September didn't sleep the best woke up a few times then woke up 6.45 to see Ellie stood up in cot. Thought would get her in bed with me but unfortunately she wouldn't go back to sleep so got up after 7. Sharon and Ben got up 7.30 we didn't have breakfast so was out off door before 9 and was in city by 9.40. As soon as arrive in city straight to pancake on the rocks in darling harbour for breakfast which everyone enjoyed. Was a miserable day so good job we decided to go to Sydney aquarium today and got there 10.30. Think Ellie enjoyed especially the Great Barrier Reef exhibit and walking through the amazing underwater tunnels. But unfortunately was not really that interested in seeing her first dugong was more interested in the sand pit. Is lots of animals to see and just nice to experience then hanging out swimming. Ellie also seemed to enjoy the touch pool but think by end was getting tired and didn't end up leaving til 1ish. But trust Ellie not to want to go to sleep at first but got her in pushchair and ended up putting blanket so couldn't see so went to sleep. So whilst sleep decided we would go to Lindt cafe and shared a sharing plate but unfortunately no waffles as machine not working but was still good. Whilst sat down Sharon phoned car hire company and can collect today so decided not to go to wildlife centre instead got train back to go collect car. But had to go home first and got back 2.40 collected everything then out of door. Ended up changing train at Stathfield to Westmead was expecting car to be close to train station. But unfortunately had to walk 15 minutes but at least one good thing had stopped raining got to budget car hire at 4.30. Obvisiously we ended up with an automatic put us all on car hire but think Ben will be doing most of the driving. Had a strange car seat had to fasten it in the boot and was in the middle of the back seat very bizarre. Trust us to hit rush hour traffic and I sat in front as Sharon thought I would have more of idea where we were going. But somehow I had put the wrong address in at first but luckily realised before we got too far and got hone 6ish. Was going to go to spinning class but unfortunately I missed it as was at 5.30 so instead I made tea chilli. However I made it as I usually go and unfortunately it was abit too spicy but was still nice. Unfortunately nothing on TV again so ended up watching 'Notebook' and fall asleep on sofa got to bed 10.30.

Rainy day and DFO

Woke up 5 to Ellie crying but luckily went back to bed and got up 7am. So by time time Sharon and Ben got up at 9am me and Ellie had already had breakfast. Aim was to go to Bondi today but was raining so looks like Bondi won't be happening but would be a pain since track work this weekend. So at 10.30 me and Sharon decided to go to DFO outlet shopping and luckily had stopped raining. Found sone nice pyjamas I wanted from Peter Alexander but unfortunately won't my size. Went to ripcurl Sharon got Ellie a rash vest and had the suitcase which I wanted and was half price, so might have to get. But went to look toy d rest of shops first didn't buy anything else saw cardigan at Ralph Lauren but didn't really seem that cheap for outlet was still $100. It was then back to buy my suitcase from ripcurl as be a shame not to buy at that price. Go for coffee and cake and then walk back as Sharon thinking off getting bus would take same time as walking. On way back stop in park to have our caramel slice and finish our coffee as sun come out now got back at 1.15. When got back Ellie just woken so we had lunch then went to Rhodes at 3ish. The aim was to let Ellie play in Ikea play-area but have to be over 3years and the other one busy. So went to Coles but Ellie got grumpy so went in Thomas ride on but didn't have to turn on for her to enjoy. When got back was going to go in the pool but was very cold but Ellie happy splashing. Then I thought about going to gym or for a run but it never happened. Spoke to mum and dad on Skype and Ellie very excited to see them ended up speaking for just under an hour. Was nothing on TV so ended up watching 'Leap Year' and had oyster bay wine with Sharon then trust me to fall asleep on sofa and bed 11.30.

Rocks, Watson bay and babysit

Didn't sleep the best heard Ellie steering then at 4.30 she one so got her into bed with and fell asleep 5 and woke up 7.30. Think Sharon and Ben got up 8ish unfortunately today doing track work which meant have to catch bus from Rhodes to Strathfield. So caught bus at 10.22 but the bus wasn't really best for pushchairs and nobody gave up baby seats for up. Then half way into journey had to take pushchair down as people couldn't get past us as taking up most of the aisle. Once at Strathfield wasn't much better as lift broken but made train to circular quay with 5 minutes to spare. Somehow Ellie fell asleep 11ish so once at Circular Quay went for walk round the Rocks market but was nothing we wanted, not even any banana bread. Ellie only ended up having 45 minutes once wake we got ferry at 12.15 to Watson Bay which took about 30 minutes. Watson Bay is a harbourside on the eastern suburb of Sydney and is an ideal place to experience the magnificent Sydney Harbour. Once arrive at Watson Bay ferry wharf it is good to explore by foot which was once a fishermans village. Aim was to go to the popular Doyles cafe for lunch but unfortunately Sharon decided didn't want since Ben doesn't like fish. At this point Ellie decided to have a walk so was going to look in the cafe to see what food did but Ellie decided to go other direction. So instead just went for ice-cream from gelatissimo then walk to the Gap, an infamous ocean cliff sadly known in former yeas for suicides. But we decided against doing the cliff walk but I just like to go to Watson bay to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. Ended up getting the ferry back at 2ish and was straight to the Rocks to have some lunch. Went to burger joint a new burger place which has just opened at back of observer hotel and had a lamb burger was very good definitely go again. Got train back to Strathfield and had to wait nearly 30 minutes for bus to arrive but luckily was pushchair space this time. Once back me and Sharon went to Rhodes to get a few things and when back Ellie was still awake. Sharon and Ben go out 6ish to go watch an AFL game at Olympic park so me and Ellie home alone. Had Zaid a 21year student view place at 6.30 who seemed nice and was very keen to move in. Ellie didn't end up drinking all off her milk and eventually went to sleep 8ish but cried a little at first. I then watched 'bedtime stories' with wine and 'Nanny McPhee' which think may off nodded off a little whilst watching. Sharon and Ben got in 11ish and seemed to enjoy the game but not sure if understood ruled and bed 12ish.

Taronga Zoo and Max Brenner's

Woke up 6.30 to see Ellie stood up in cot took abit for her to go back to sleep got in bed with me and then woke up 9ish. We were first up Sharon and Ben got up 9.30 had breakfast and didn't end up leaving til 11ish. Caught train at 11.22 had 2/3 minutes to get on train from central to Circular quay which luckily we made. Got ferry to Taronga zoo at 12.15 and then bus to top to get our tickets for entrance into zoo was hoping Ellie would fall asleep, but no success. First stop Australia aviary as Ellie likes birds at the moment, then Australian nightlife and luckily seemed to see a few animals even the Bilby. Then to see the kangaroos, wallabies and emus which you could walk though and saw a few kangaroos. We walked past koala encounter but only saw one all the rest must be hiding, but hopefully see more later. Luckily the platypus wasn't hiding and looked so cute but looked very lonely as looked to be only one. All off this is part of the Australian walkabout then for another walk though where saw echidna which Ellie liked. Then to the concert lawns to have our picnic but unfortunately no cafe as currently refurbishing. After our picnic was to see the seals, wetland aviary and rainforest trail was going to watch birdshow but didn't think Ellie would sit still. So instead went to look at the big cats trail as I my favourite animals are tigers, elephants and giraffes as I just find them fascinating. Obviously we had to have sone silly pictures taken so had one with eagle and with the gorillas. It was then to listen to the koala talk and found out some new things like there can jump between trees. Was supposedly 4 koalas in the enclosure but only actually saw 3, as 2 were asleep. Walk past alligator on route to exit and look round the gift shop but didn't buy anything. Got the sky safari cable car down to the bottom which always provides a lovely view off Sydney and made the ferry at 4pm. Once off straight to Max Brenner which is creating a new chocolate experience worldwide. Tried to convince them to have a pizza but shared a tutti frutti waffle was good and I had a coconut hot chocolate was nice but very sweet. Ellie was not that keen on the waffle so ended up having to distract her with pringles. Catch train from Wynyard but just missed train so had to wait 30 minutes for next one. Home 6ish let Ellie  play for abit then bed 7.30 and I made tea chicken satay went down well. Watch TV was film on 'Birdcage' which was very funny but couldn't believe Sharon and Ben not seen before, bed 11.30.

Coogee

At 3.30am Ellie woke up but thought was later than that at first but just got her into bed with me and she went straight to sleep took me 30 minutes. We got up 7.30 and was 1st up Sharon and Ben got up 8ish then time to get ready to go out Ellie not bothered about porridge but had some toast. We just made the train at 10.07 as it was runnning 2 minutes late get off at Central and waited few minutes for bus to Coogee. Got to Coogee just after 11 and Ellie asleep at this point so decided to go for walk aim to go to Clovelly beach. Unfortunately could only get to Gordon's Bay as after that was a few steps so couldn't go with pram. At this point Ellie woke up so walk back to Coogee and changed Ellie into swimsuit so could go in sea. So me and Sharon took Ellie for a splash in sea but didn't liked started crying think was the loud noise of the waves. Have some pringles which Ellie liked and played in the sand but Ellie happy climbing on Sharon and Ben. Then looked for shells well we looked and Ellie put them in the pringles tub was on beach nearly 2hours was 23 degrees. It was then food went to Yerro's cafe which overlooks the beach me and Sharon shared a Yerro plate. Which was lamb, chicken, Greek salad, pitta and chips, Ellie liked as could help herself to chips. Then walk other way and found a park where Ellie found a little boy Joey 4 years old to play with. We then walked abit further past the rock pools then turn round as not sure where we would get to. Catch bus back to central and made train with 5 minutes to spare but had to carry pushchair upstairs as couldn't find lift. Ellie wouldn't go to sleep got back 5ish so Ben took Ellie home whilst me and Sharon went for coffee and shopping. Once back thought Ellie might be asleep but was busy playing went to bed 8ish. Ben made tea chicken fajitas then speak mum 8.45 for 30minutes had nice chat and is glad were enjoying self. Went to bed 11ish after having a glass of wine and Sharon trying to find car hire.

Botanical Gardens

Woke up 7.30 and was surprised that Sharon and Ben already up but Ellie didn't end up getting up til 9ish. We had all breakfast but Ellie only had milk then went to Rhodes to look round shops then to Coles to get a few things. Get back gave Ellie her breakfast thought would try porridge today but still only ate half of it. Then get train at 11.50 after making sandwiches for our picnic later on. Get off train at Town Hall so could go to Woolworth's to look for baby milk but didn't have what we wanted. Looked in platypus shoes for trainers for Ben and eventually found some he liked some onitsuka tiger ones and wouldn't mind some myself. Then walk down to botanical gardens but stop pharmacy first to see if had baby milk but still not what we wanted. Walked round the Opera House then into the gardens for our picnic which ended up having at 2, Ellie liked the Pringles. Was amusing watching Ellie chase the dickd and followed 2 ducks which was so cute but unfortunately didn't have camera ready. Ellie then walked for abit which seemed to take a while but we did have good views of the Opera Housr and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Eventually Ellie went in the pushchair and fell asleep quickly so we walked up to Macquire Chair but didn't find the chair. Then walk round the gardens sone more past the pond into gift shop and Ellie woke up only had about an hours sleep. Get train back caught from circular quay to Strathfield where we changed for Rhodes. On way back pop stop at Rhodes for coffee and biscuit whilst we went to Coles, Ben took Ellie to playarea so wouldn't get bored. Got hone just after 6, Ellie go to bed 8 and fell straight asleep. So we had tea pasta with red pesto, chicken and mushrooms was very nice. Watched TV and could feel self falling asleep so bed 11 and aim to read book which didn't happen.

Sky tower and Manly

Ellie slept in my room as I had foolishly put the cot up in my room then I wasn't sure how to get down but was fine. She woke up 6 but thought would put her in bed with mr and luckily we both went back to sleep I woke up 8.30 and Ellie 9. Made bacon sandwiches for us 3 and Ellie had weetabix had 2 spoonfuls then didn't want any more had satsuma. Sharon booked sky tower combo pass for her and Ben as cheaper in long run when also doing aquamarine and wildlife centre. But then couldn't get the email as hotmail not working so missed train at 11.20 and caught next one straight to town hall. First stop sky tower for Sharon and Ben to get there passes then do the sky tower with 4D cinema experience. Then to the observation deck which is 250 metres high and the Sydney Tower Eye is the tallest building in Sydney. It took 6 years to build and was when opened in September 1981 was the 4th tallest building in the world. The observation deck was not as big as I expected didn't take long to walk round but was a nice view. But Ellie wasn't really interested in the view much preferred to play in the play area. We left sky tower about 1.30 and walk to Circular Quay which didn't take as long as I expected and actually made Manly ferry at 2pm. Had got a multi pass 2 ticket this morning and thought included Manly but didn't but let us though since Rhodes conductor told us it did. Once at Manly was straight the sealife centre and just caught the end of the Penguin talk, were very cute. But Ellie seemed to enjoy walking through tunnel especially the stingray and making splashes in the rockpool. After walk own corso and go on a manly front to get something to eat went to Manly Grill just had chicken Caesar salad and Ellie liked chips. We then walked to a Shelley beach as Shaton recommend to go and trust Ellie to fall asleep so didn't get to go on the beach. But me and Sharon had paddle very cold sat on beach for abit as a lovely view then walk back dipped feet in rock pool still cold. Once back at Manly went to Ben & Jerrys for ice-cream we all had 2scoops  I had peanut and chunky monkey preferred the peanut one. Look in shops after as Ben wanted new top and shops ended up getting a top from ripcurl but couldn't find shoes. Ended up catching ferrying at 18.10 and let us go through free cause of mishap with the different zones. Got back to Circular Quay caught train to central and change there for Rhodes made train in 7 minutes with 2 lifts and even had 3 minutes to spare. By time got back was 7.30 Ellie had toast, strawberries, blueberries bath but didn't want to go to bed. We got take-away pizza fom eagel boys and at this point Ellie was still awake eventually went to sleep 9ish. Didn't end up going to bed til nearly 12 and Ellie was stearing so had to be very quiet.

Day off and Sharon, Ellie and Ben arrive

Day off Sunday 8th September woke up 7.30 hoover, wash bedding in case there have to have my bed and breakfast. Go to gym for spinning class at 9.15 was full and very hot as air conditioning not working so definitely had good work out. Then to Rhodes to go to Ikea to get bath mat for other bathroom and look in target but couldn't find what I wanted. Home have shower and then to Coles to do shop for fruit and few other essentials. Back home have lunch salmon and poached star egg was 1st time used star pan was good. Then had Jade come look round place just after 2ish seemed nice but wants to fetch her on bed so need to enquire about that. Rest of afternoon didn't do much watched film and just tried to get organised as Sharon, Ellie and Ben arrive tomorrow. Then got got train at 5.40 to go meet Nat at Circular Quay but unfortunately was travelling back from Newcastle and her train was late. So she didn't end up arriving til 7ish but it was ok as I just sat and read my book whilst waiting. Ended up just going to Guylian in the Rocks for hot chocolate as Nat had to leave at 8 as had hoped to be there earlier but good to catch up. I then got train from Circular a quay to Strathfield wait for train for 20minutes and got back home just after 9. Watched TV for bit once home and finished the cider went to bed 10.30 as knew early start tomorrow. So woke up 4.30 but foolishly didn't get and fell back asleep til 5.20 then had to rush to make train at 5.40 which luckily made. Trust train to get delayed on track due to train problems so was stopped at Mascot for about 10 minutes. So got to airport about 6.30 and there plane supposed to land 6.20 but unfortunately was late by 20 minutes so landed at 6.45. Seemed to wait ages for them to come through was stood watching gate B as that's where there were supposed to arrive. Then at 8ish had someone come up behind me was Sharon which was a surprise as had come though gate A just to confuse me. It was then to find the taxi as he had already phoned me twice as think fed up of waiting but was fine when we met him. Took about an hour to get to the flat and as soon as back had tea and Anzac biscuits. Then Ben went for lay down so me and Sharon caught up whilst had a little play and opened her presents I got her in New York. Ellie went for sleep 11 then Sharon went for a lay down. Whilst there were all asleep made bolognese for tea, Ellie woke up crying at 13hrs which woke Sharon up. But didn't seem to wake Ben up we eventually got moving at 3 and went for walk to Olympic Park. First stop food just went to Gloria's jeans coffee then sat on grade to eat so Ellie could have run around and play in park. On way back stop at Bicenntial Park so Ellie could have a play in the park liked slide but not sure on the swing. She ended up talking asleep on the way back and got back 5.30 and Ellie woke up just before 6.30. Then we all had tea bolognese and rice which went down well, I then had my peanut lion bar which Sharon bought for me was very nice. Ellie had bath but 1st had a little accident on the rug nd supposedly 1st time she done that but luckily cleaned up. She didn't want to go to bed at first eventually went to bed 8ish then I kept nodding on sofa eventually went to bed 11.

Work 4 days and sushi train

Woke up to phone ringing was a blocked number but luckily ent back to sleep til 9ish. Aim was to go to gym but decided against it and watched 3 episodes of Homeland which is very addictive just want to know ending. Time then to go wok my 1st proper day back from New York but 1st stop 6 east to take Debbie's uniform to them and her NUM already missing her. At work on A side and only open to 24 patients seemed busy as few things not done fom the am shift. Then at 2.30 me and Jiewen had in charge training as were both taking in charge in a few weeks but luckily have someone senior with me. Felt like person I worked with didn't really do much which is supposedly normally have speaking with person in charge. I was supposedly team leader on my side but she took over updating hand over and even ended up handing over. Finished just on time walk home was still wide awake so ended up watching episode of 'Homelands' with wine fall asleep on sofa and not sure what time got to bed. Got up 9ish breakfast and thought I might aswell go to the gym but think was only there about an hour. Come home fill in form for NYE cruise, sent and watch episode of 'Homeland'. On way to work NYE cruise phoned me as needed card not going through as didn't have the numbers from back of card, then sorted. At work was a nice shift was not to busy only open to 18 patients and had 1 patient have reaction to chemo. Finished abit early and swapped to early shift tomorrow as short in morning but not tired when home so bed 11ish and asleep 11.30. Woke up before alarm went off and stupidly didn't get up so fell ack asleep til 6.20 then rush to get to work. But still ended up been there early and got swapped to B side which I fully expected. Sharon NG who I was working was her last shift and was running late but was ok as she was there yesterday. Still only open to 18 patients and on my side has me, NG, AIN and student so plenty of staff. Had nice morning everything done in plenty of time nice to be on B side for a change. Also Sharon's last day and if I had known before hand would of bought something in but someone did a cake from fruit. At end of shift had our pictures taken with her is only on second picture and is young to ward 15, elderly next so not looking forward to it. After work go to Coles on way back to get something for tea and a few things for tea. Home watch 'Homeland' and text couple who want to come view place tonight sounds good but not sure want couple. Had salmon, risotto and veg for tea but was too hot so spoke to Mum, Dad, Sharon and Ellie. Then I could tell them what else I wanted fetching and see what else Sharon wants as will do full shop on Sunday. Unfortunately fire alarm went off 3 times tonight not sure but the fire brigade even came. Then Paula came to view place is Polish seems nice but her husband working said will let her know Sunday. Then watched final episode of season 1 of 'Homeland' very good cant believe watched all series in 3/4 days. Bed 10ish but read chapter as not sleepy then eventually went to sleep. Woke up before alarm but stayed in bed and played on iPad so up plenty of time even had time for cup of tea before work. Still on B side and had nice shift nothing eventful happened only thing had febrile patient and even finished early. So even had time to go to Coles to do some more food shopping so not so much to carry tomorrow and liquourland for Bens belated birthday present. Then get ready to go out got train 5.40 and meet Hisako at town hall, at first couldn't find each other but then eventually did. Go to sushi train and had to wait 10-15 minutes for our bar table as nice to sit at bar to see the food to choose. Was so much to choose from where to start my favourite the grilled salmon and the green tea. No dessert what we fancied so went for frozen yoghurt but went to different one tried pompergrant first then decided to have. But then what topping could have 3 so had chocolate chips, marshmallows and mini m&m's was good but still prefer the coconut and mango one. Had nearly 30 minutes to wait for train so went to woolworths and got some yoghurts for Ellie. Was home just before 9 watch TV for abit a d have so e cider which are nice had left then trust me to fall asleep on sofa. Once awake at 1ish could t get back to sleep so finished book and then fell asleep 2ish.

Study day and day off

Monday 2nd September woke up 6.30 but then went back to sleep til 7ish, breakfast and Michelle arrived early 7.30. Luckily I was all ready went to meet her as borrowing a cot and highchair for when Sharon here. Then she drove us to work as on a mandatory study day today together started prompt at 8am. Had the same tutor as last year Angie and she can certainly talk and realised katrina our educator also on study day but no room to sit next to us. First had quality and improvement then fire safety where we got to use the fire extingushier which was quite fun. It was then morning tea had good idea where we now contribute money and their provide some food, which good idea as not enough time to go to cafe. Then time for infection control/ hand hygiene and CPR where could feel self getting tired but did stay awake. Me and Michelle were on 1st lunch so went to cafeteria but not that much choice so just got a burger and we shared wedges. Back do CPR workshop where had to do the practical side and Angie wasn't happy with my technique at first but usually makes people do a few times. It was then improving medication safety which was very interesting and had chance to do sone problem solving on case studies. Afternoon tea then manual handling, Michelle luckily went 1st so could go home after was going to give me lift but told her to go, I was 4th. Also it was a nice day so nice to walk back stopping at shopping centre for wrapping paper and wrap presents bought in New York got in 4ish. I also phoned up regarding the New Years Eve cruise to check availability also where departing from and luckily still plenty of space all departing Circular Quay. Decided would go to spinning class tonight at 5.30 but not been for a while but was very good glad I went. Come back watch neighbours, home&away for tea had chilli then watch more TV feel asleep on sofa 8ish til midnight. Spoke to mum before going to bed and told her about NYE cruise still happy to go on it and eventually recieved Melbourne brochure, yeh. Woke up 9 had breakfast then go to gym at 10.39 to meet BJ had me doing squats, lunges and row with weights. My last session with BJ which enjoyed but don't need to continue and think helped abit with my calf pain. Back phone car hire cheapest $355 for 5 days and also phone police no further forward with case. Have lunch then thought I best go do something so decided to go to city to sort out Opera House tickets for Sharon and Ben. Must of just missed train so by the time I actually got to the city was about 3.30. Since a nice day decided to have a seat near the Opera House to read my kindle. Stayed their til about 5ish then sun started to go in so went to book Romeo and Juliet at Opera House when Sharon here. Mum tried phoning but missed it so texted her to inform about the progress of the police station. Thought would miss train but luckily running late so just made it and got back to Rhodes at 6.15. First stop Coles to get a few essentials like toilet roll and coffee for tea half fish,chips and beans with cider which Debbie left. For a change nothing on TV so watched Homelands the DVDs which Nat gave me. Ending up watching 5 episodes of Homeland which is a American thriller is a great show very unpredictable. Didn't go to bed til 12ish and still not tired so ended up reading a chapter of my book.

Flying back to Sydney

Once on plane I was sat on 60 A a window seat and was a row of 3 seats but the middle seat was empty which good to stretch out more. Plane left on time at 6.55pm and before take off I was starting asleep but trust once up was wide awake. Watched 'The company you keep' which was very good but was nodding off near end of film so had to watch again. For dinner had pasta in mushroom sauce only ate half, cheese& crackers, cranberry and coconut bar with wine and got to choose so had Sauvignon. By the time film finished only had 1hr 45 left til Los Angeles so not enough time to watch another film. So watched Elementary but first to toilet and fell asleep probably had about an hour and actually landed early. But since we landed early had to wait a few minutes for parking spot and flight was less than 5 hours. Had a wander round Los Angeles airport in the hope of finding some shops but couldn't find any which was a shame as had 2 hours at airport. So in the end I just played on my iPad but my phone wouldn't connect to wifi and then read some of my book. Then on to next flight to Sydney and sat on the same seat and still had empty middle seat. Fell asleep on take off but probably only had 30 minutes then I watched another episode of Elementary as never really saw other one. It was then time for food none of the hot appealed to me so just ate the cous cous. Watched film 'Any questions for Ben?' Which is an Australian comedy was quite funny in places but predictable ending. I then watched 'The Croods' a animated adventure comedy film was entertaining but could feel eyes going near end of film. So thought I would try to get some sleep but unfortunately never happened so plated game and listened to music. Then eventually I fell asleep but probably only had 45 minutes woke up and watched 'Stoker' a psychological thriller was abit bizarre in places. Thought best to to toilet 1st time this flight and didn't realise have shelves near toilet with food so got almonds and apple. Back watch 'Promised land' a drama by the director who did good will hunting and was very engaging. It was then breakfast ate cereal and muffin not keen on fruit, yoghurt and coffee then watched 2 episodes of 'Big Bang Theory' as only under 1 hour left of flight. Actually landed 30 minutes early which was nice and didn't take as long as normal to go through security as could scan passport. Also only had to wait few minutes for case and waited 5 minutes for train from airport to central. But then unfortunately had to wait 25 minutes got my train to Rhodes which was abit of a shame as just want to be home. Got home 9.30ish once back sort case do washing and then desperately needed a shower after 14 hour journey. Then to Coles to get a few groceries when back couple waiting to few place were nice but spoke very limited English. Think in 5 minutes had to repeat myself a few times which is no good if going to be living with them, so don't think suitable. Have something to eat and wait for next peron to view at 1pm by 1.30 no show so texted but no reply. Finished watching film 'One Fine Day' which is an old film but still very enjoyable. Thought since nice day would go outside and sat on grass opposite shopping centre to read my kindle. Go to liquourland as thinking getting Ben some wine for his belated birthday but not sure which one so will have to check. Tea had 4 pans on the go at once with padta, chilli, rice and bolognese ended up having bolognese for tea and then got chilli tomorrow ans 3 for work. Then strawberries and yoghurt, then Ali another potential flatmate came to fire at 7ish seemed nice will get back to me tomorrow. Speak to mum and dad on Skype who have still not recieved the Melbourne brochure and will send money for New Years Eve Cruise. Did more washing and watched Masterchef was the final glad Emma won. I then spoke to Sharon on Skype only a week til in Australia very exciting and Ellie ended up shutting the lid on me. Went to bed about 11ish but not that tired so read read for abit.

Last day with Debbie

Woke up 8 and went for breakfast at 8.45 decided to have the summer fruit and Greek yoghurt again as that was my favourite. Posted my postcard at hotel to Mum and Dad to thank them for making my trip to New York able to be enjoyable. Left hotel at 9.30 even though didn't have to check out til later but didn't want to spend my last day in hotel. First stop was to find the Ghostbusters fire station 'Hook & ladder' and is actually a functioning fire station. If look through the door can actually see the sign from Ghostbusters and brings abit off nostalgia. Walk past Ground Zero site and stop at the museum look round the gift shop but decided against doing museum. On to century 21 buy last things got Clairns eye cream for me and got Christmas presents for Sharon and Sarah. Look in Nine West but still didn't have the gold scrappy shoes which I liked. We then looked round the national museum of American Indians next to bowling green was free was quite interesting. Next get subway to grand central as I really wanted to use the subway even though no difference to London Underground. Get off Grand Central and walk to Madison Avenue 44nd to Nine West luckily had the shoes I wanted in my size. But I ended up buying 2 pairs of shoes as if get 2 you get the 2nd one half price so got a pair of flats aswell. Then lunch McDonalds couldn't believe how many different varieties of come and actually get to do yourself. Back to hotel just before 3 pack new things in suitcase which all fit in but I did cone with near empty case. Get yellow cab to airport was a lot of traffic so took over an hour to get there which was still plenty of time. At least going to airport was a flat rate only $60 so a lot cheaper than when we arrived. I got checked in very quickly even got a window seat and was very impressed my case only weighed 15kg. By the time I had checked Debbie still queuing so went to join and her case was 25kg so over weight but was surprised didn't have to pay excess. Once checked go through security and have to go through body scanner. Then look round shops but only bought sweets as shops expensive then we had food pretzel hot dog was ok but think prefer separately. Sit and chat with Debbie for a while then thought best go to my gate, can't believe last time will see Debbie for a while. But at least we had a good time in New York and Debbie glad that I decided to come with her. Once at gate didn't have to wait long til started boarding.

Shopping New York

Thursday 29th August didn't sleep the best again woke up 6.30 but then luckily went back to sleep til just before 8am. Went to breakfast at 8.30am was busy so had to wait a few minutes for a table had pastries today got 3 varieties. Left hotel at 9.30 walk up broadway and not that many shops open must not open til 10am which was a shame. So first stop was the famous Macy's the worlds largest department store built in 1902 is 18 floors. There is so much variety that its impossible not to find something to buy ended up getting Ralph Lauren shirt which was half price. Think there was about food on every level so got a almond pretzel but think I preferred the savoury one I had. Looked round Victorias Secrets is the best destination for women's lingerie was 3 floors of beautiful things. The staff were very helpful and measure me am a 32C so different to what wearing but so many nice sets couldn't decide which one. Then up to Times Square for lunch at Shake Shack since we never got to go yesterday was still a queue but didn't take too long. Just had shake burger, shared cheesy chips and a had a blueberry burger was all very good glad we went, definitely recommend. But was too busy too sit in so ate in Times Square on table and chairs, someone there admired our burgers. It was then to do more shopping to American Eagle first where Debbie got a few things and I got cream lace dress. Then walk up to 5th avenue stopped in Abercrombie as hoping to get new top as was nothing that I really wanted. Next back to FAO Schwartz to get Ellie's present decided to get an ancient fisher price piano, as I loved fisher price toys when little. We then found Tiffany as would be shame not to look whilst here and really wanted something new. But there was just so much to choose from in end decided on get small hear tag amazon it's bead one which will match my other one. Debbie ended up buying her mums some earrings for Christmas as doesn't wear much jewellery. When trying to find Bloomingdales we found Nine West shoes I got pair of tan sandals for only $20 since Debbie got 2 pairs. Then to Bloomingdales as got to go whilst in New York is full of little boutique stores which is abit pricey. But is just nice to say been but I did get Ellie 2 dresses from Ralph Lauren at good price, had yoghurt place on 6th floor but didn't have time to go but looked good. It was then for tea as nearly 8 but 1st stop to find Debbie a bag got one from Roxy. Was going to go to bubbagump but long queue so went to Applebees where still had shrimp with chicken. Couldn't eat it all but still managed to fit in a small brownie pudding which was just enough. Got in at 10.30 after stopping at tourist shop first for Debbie to get a few souvenirs to take home. Eventually had shower then decided I best do my parking since leave tomorrow couldn't get to sleep watch TV til 1.30.

Central Park, museum and Broadway

So didn't sleep the best work up during in night woke up 6.30 but didn't go for breakfast til 8ish this time had granola and Greek yohurt. Leave 9ish then walk up towards broadway and 5th avenue going past Empire State Building but Debbie not bothered going in. Then to take pictures of the famous public library and central station which have both been in any many films/TV programmes. Couldn't believe that central station even had an Apple store, how bizarre and is 100 years old this year. Walk up Madison Avenue to the famous toy store FAO Schwarz which has lots of toys which never seen before. Wanted to buy Ellie something but couldn't decide what as so much choice, so will have to come back tomorrow. It also has the famous big piano which was in the BIG film and offers abit of nostalgia but decided against playing on it. The Apple store was next door so thought we might aswell have a look which was slightly cheaper but didn't buy anything. Then to go look round Central Park decided to do a rickshaw ride so hopefully see more of the park than on foot. Central Park is a manmade wonder was the 1st public park in America took 16yrs to make is 840 acres. First stop to the rock which looked down on the amusement park in summer and ice rink in winter to start september which is nicer to look at. Also the rock is famous and gives you a lovely view and has been a setting for many films the most recent been the smuffs. In the upper east side is old town and doesn't allow any celebrities to live there. At this point it started raining so glad got rickshaw to the famous Bethesda fountain is the most well known and recognised fountains in the world. The centrepiece of the fountain 'Angel of the Waters' represents peace, health, purity and temperance. Then past Loeb boathouse, to cherry hill fountain which is the seen in 'Friends' and to bow bridge. Bow bridge is where most proposals happen in New York and is very beautiful you can why proposals are made here. It was then to strawberry fields to see the famous imagine memorial for John Lennon near Dakota building where he was shot. By the time the tour has finished it was still raining so decided to go to America museum of Natural History to stay dry. First was the 'Journey to the Stars' exhibition which was engrossing and got to see how magical stars are. Look at the North American mammals then to the IMAX for penguin show which was about the king penguins. Their journey from youth to fatherhood based in Antarctica which was funny in places and the babies were very cute. Time then for food to level 4 cafe but unfortunately not that much choice so ended up with just crisps and drinks. Then to find the 'Whales: Giants of the Deep' which wasn't as good as the last day which was a variety of exhibits. Had a look round the dinosaurs as I really wanted to see them and was very impressed with them, then to mammals and Indians. Decided not to do the frog exhibition as didn't really interest us so ended up leaving about 4.30. Glad we went as there is so much o see think we spent about 4 hours once left took picture of the outside. It was then to find the Belvedere Castle in Central Park which we found and I imagined a big medieval castle. But this one is not like this it is very nice with a nice view of Turtle Pond, the Great Lawn and some of the New York skyline. Then to find the Alice in Wonderland statue walked past boat house on route looked very nice was in film 7 dresses. The statue was bigger than expected and very impressive, it is also a fine addition to Central Parks magic feel. I also found the Hans Christian Anderson with ugly duckling and balto sled dog statues which were very interesting. Walk past radio city, Rockefeller centre and found Magnolia bakery which is famous because of Sex in the City. Debbie then wanted to go to the NHL hockey shop as collects hockey jerseys but decided to just get top. Got to Times Square and to TKTS a discount booth which offers 50% off broadway tickets decided to see Cinderella. To then find Shake Shack a modern day burger stand serving delicious burgers but unfortunately a long queue and only had 40 minutes. So unfortunately not enough time so had to find sone here else but didn't really fancy McDonalds. Ended up going to Jamba Juice just for a snack and a drink was ok but nothing amazing. Then to Broadway to see show was good had a slight twist on normal version and had a few funny moment. Debbie got done milk duds in the interval which were very similar to poppets. Then time to walk back to hotel took over an hour stop seven/eleven for corn dogs mini x3 were nice. Get back feet ache and ice machine now working and the hit chocolate tasted a lot better than the first night I had it. Then time for our Magnolia cupcakes I had the red velvet one, wasn't disappointed is definitely a must for sweet tooths and as good as last time. Shower as felt dirty then bed 1ish.