New Year's Day Botanical Gardens

Can believe now 2014 woke up 9.30am was texting a few peopke especially Sarah but New Year's Day yet in England, rest got up 10am. Looked slightly cloudly outside which was no good as the aim was for me and Rachel to go beach and rest to go on hop on/off bud. But decided probably not the best weather for beach so decided hat we would all go to Botanical Gardens as no one been yet. But by time everyone organised was 11.30 and missed boat to Circular Quay but luckily didn't have to wait long. As soon as got to Circular Quay 1st stop was ice-cream then to the Opera House to see if anything Mum, Dad, Linda and Stuart want to see whilst here. But unfortunately doesn't look to be anything that there want to see which is a shame as would off been nice for then to see a show in Opera House. It was then to walk round botanical round even though stauart wanted to go on the little train but said would see more walking. Luckily by the time we started walking the sun had gone stop at cafe just before 2 for something just had banana bread. I then took them to the best view in botanical gardens where can get good picture off both Opera House and Sydney bridge. On way back walk round the Opera House for a change off scenery sat near Opera House to admire the view. Aim to book bridge climb after but instead off going to bridge climb just went to place at Circular Quay. All happy to do a Twilight bridge climb but unfortunately earliest one is 6th January which is no good as Rachel won't be here then. So in the end me and Rachel booked to do the 3rd just a night climb and Linda will book at a later time. Get ferry back to Darling Harbour then look for so we here to eat tonight decide on Plate but unfortunately can't book. Then go back to theirs collect our stuff then me and Rachel get train from Town Hall to Strathfield had to wait 20 minutes for next one. Ended up getting back to mine at 6.30 quick change and out door in an hour which was very good. Met them at Plate and luckily there already a table we had starters to share and then steak. Mum had fishermans basket which looked very nice but unfortuantely was cold so need up having to send back. Adam and Sarah met us there at 9.30pm but was still finishing so met them afterwards at 'Watershed' just a bar next door. Well me, Dad and Linda was quite amusing as thought drunk so wasn't going to let him in but he had only had one then let us in. Then Mum, Linda and Stuart arrived as Stuart and Rachel both wanted ice-cream but had to stand outside to finish and was raining a little. Also Tiago came to join us for a drink as not met Adam yet was nice to have a catch and talk about old times. But Linda was nearly falling asleep so her and Stuart left earlier, then Mum and Dad finish drink then left. We chatted for abit more then left at 11.30pm which was good as just made train at 11.50 by time got in so tired so straight too bed.

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve awake 7am got moving 7.45 as fell back asleep then at Dr's when opened at 8.30am. Since hadn't made an appointment had to wait over 30 minutes as the only appointment could give me was in afternoon which was no good. Saw a lady Dr who was very nice said had D&V gave me medical certificate for work and even looked at my eczema on hands and gave me prescription for cream. Once left Dr's phone work to call in sick since supposed to be at work on a late but couldn't do as on a New Years Eve Cruise with everyone. When home get ready for tonight as plan to stay at mum and dad's place after cruise leave ours 10.30. By time got to Mum and Dads place was after 11.30 met Dad and Stuart in room then couldn't find Mum and Linda. Eventually found them then walk to atown Hall Station to get them all weekly transport pass. Then we all got train to Circular Quay and their were all surprised that the train was 2 floors once at Circular Quay was very busy. Had security to get round to Opera House and checking bags was stil very busy people everywhere. The plan was to get food near Opera House but was no way that we fancied and couldn't actually get to Opera House. As thought we best have something to eat before cruise as not sure how much food we will get on the cruise. Ended up going to City Extra in circular quay near ferry terminal and got a good view of Sydney Bridge and already 1.30 by time sat down. Food was very nice and reasonable everyone seemed to enjoy left just after 2.30 and got ferry back to Darling Harbour just after 3. It was then time to get ready for our night out I was 1st in the shower as there assumed me and Rachel would take the longest which we did. Left there place just after 5 and just missed ferry was awful walking on wharf as gaps in planks so walk on tip toes holding onto Stuart. Ended up getting to Circular Quay just after 6pm which was so busy took us nearly 30 minutes to get to Campbell Cove where catching cruise. Whilst walking to Campbell Cove was nearly stepping on peopke and wasn't sure if would get to cruise in time as departing at 7pm and supposedly had to be there 60 minutes before. When cruise pulled up wasn't what I expected was smaller than I imagined and was rocking a lot when people getting on. Which made us all feel abit apprehensive about getting but once our turn to get on seemed to off settled a little. Also once on cruise didn't appear to be as rocky when stood on wharf had a table for 6 upstairs which was a good view. Til 9ish just sailed around harbour had a few nibbles, drank sparkling wine which we had to get ourselves from bar but gave us bottle. It also rained a little before 9 then at 9 had fireworks for families which were very good took a few pictures. Then after had buffet food was lots of choice and even had oysters for the 1st time which were good will definitely have again. At 22.30 was extra fireworks for mambo who designed the eye for 'Shine' theme this year for New Year's Eve. But only lasted a few seconds so didn't really feel it was worth it. It was then time for pudding was cake, fruit, cheese and biscuits definitely lots of choice but decide against the cake. Also had a little dance whilst waiting for the main fireworks found to amusing lads Sean who was gay and very entertaining then Nigel who had a kilt and was doing the spilts. Then time for the fireworks at midnight which were amazing definitely didn't disappoint even though saw the year before. The best but was the waterfall cascading from the bridge but unfortunately the camera didn't do them any justice. Also it must off been nearly 10 years since spent New Year's Eve with Mum and Dad and everyone had a good night. We were supposed to dick at 12.45 but didn't end up docking til 1.30 so was too late to meet Tiago who was already on his way home. At least when got off the ferry was not many people but was so much rubbish lying around. Was going to get bus back to Mum and Dads  but couldn't find it so ended up getting train from Circular Quay to Town Hall. Then had to walk from town half on heir place which took about 20 minutes but managed to stay in heels all night even if feet now sore. Somehow me, Rachel, dad got back 1st about 2idh not sure where others got to and mum and Linda had flats on. As soon as everyone in all tired so went to bed but texting Tiago for abit sleep 3ish and slept on 2 chairs pushed together. Maybe not the most comfortable place but at least it saved going back home and woke up 6ish but then back to sleep.

Mum, Dad, Linda and Stuart arrive and Manly

Didn't sleep the best lady night think woke up about 4 timed think eventually got up 7 must off been all excitement off parents arriving. Have breakfast smoothie then shower and Rachel got up 7.30 so didn't end leaving ours til after 8.30 so thought might not make it in time to welcome Mum and Dad to Sydney. Luckily we got there 9.30 and there had only just arrived so was good timing in the end and was so nice nice to see them. But unfortunately there couldn't check in so took them to have a look round Harbourside so knew where shops were. We left them to get food and have rest, whilst we caught ferry from a Darling Harbour to Circular Quay with lovely views. It was then to get ferry to Manly which was very busy don't think ever seem it that busy before felt like herd of cows getting on to ferry. Got to Manly just before 12 walk down the corco past all the shops which was a mistake as got distracted by the shops. Rachel ended up getting some sandals so didn't end up getting to the beach til 1.30 after had our picnic first. Only ended up been on the beach 2 hours but was still a warm one was a shame couldn't stay longer but going out tonight. So caught ferry at 4pm and got back to Rhodes 5.30 was quick change and out door before 6.30. Got to Darling Harbour 7.30 and Mum, Dad, Linda and Stuart waiting for us outside Cyren a modern Australian restaurant. Tiago also joined us for dinner and arrived a few minutes late was a nice meal Tiago and Mum both had kangaroo, mum not too sure. But unfortunately wanted rose wine which was on menu but didn't have any so ended up having red instead. Didn't end up leaving Cyren til after 10pm and back to their place 'Goldsborough apartments' which was ok but didn't get the room their were supposed to get and move after New Year. Once at theirs had a drink only had choice of gin and tonic or whiskey so had gin and opened rest of my Christmas presents. Was more presents than I expected was very nice main present from Mum and Dad a Thomas Sabo bracelet, Linda and Stuart even got me a present a star scarf. But didn't end up taking them home as too much to carry yet and got back to Rhodes after 11.30 have tea then bed.             

Featherdale wildlife park

Woke up 9am on 29th December had breakfast crossiants and Rachel got up 10.30. Think caught bus just before 12 to Strathfield and then supposedly the train straight to Blacktown. But unfortunately had to get off at Olympic Park and bus to Granville then train to Blacktown and bus to Featherdale. So felt like all done so far was public transport and didn't end up getting to Featherdale til about 1.30. Was very busy think most people on our bus was going to Featherdale so had to queue a few minutes.. Also very warm so not as many kangaroo's bouncing around as last time when here but was winter when last came. Forgot how many koala's there was to view in the trees and good to be able to pet koala. Have picture taken with koala's free of charge and even got two different ones as one koala more sleepy. We were then went to feed the kangaroos who were just lying around enjoying the sun but not that interested in the food more happy to lay in the shade. So did manage to get a few pictures with them and even saw a Joey in the pouch which looked so cute. Time to look round rest of park which is compact but well organised unfortusntely the Tasmanian devil was hiding, but did see penguins, birds, farm animals, reptiles and dingo. It was then time for food 2.30ish have a set meal hot dog, chips and drink then sit in the picnic still very warm. After food was off to watch the dingos been feed at 3pm then to see the albino kangaroos but no large one like last time. Penguin talk at 3.45 who were very cute and one penguin very cheeky kept coming back for more food. It was then to see the Tasmanian devil talk at 4 was funny watching him run around in circles and ate food all in one. All off the animals here are rescues so is a great way to get up close and personal with animal species which may never have experienced before. Then time for ice-cream look round gift shop but bought nothing and just wait for bus which came at 5.15. Got the bus straight to Blacktown and this time instead off getting train and not to use as many public transports. Got the bus straight to Strathfield which was waiting for us and only took about 30 minutes and when got to Stathfield bus there for us. So ended up getting to Rhodes 6 so took a lot less time that way should off done that first time. As soon we got back to Rhodes straight to Coles to get a few things for tea some antipasto things. Once home chill then have tea pitta, halloumi, hummus, feta and tomato which Rachel actually made reminded me off Cyprus. We even had dessert but had to have rest first was just strawberries and ice-cream. Rest of night sort pictures with red wine and watch Mr and Mrs Smith bed midnight.

Watson Bay and Obar

Ended up getting up before 9am and by time Rachel got up after 9.30 I had already had my breakfast. Got to city after 12.30 but had to wait 20 minutes for ferry so whilst waiting got Baskin Robbin ice-cream which was buy one get one free as had coupon. Indeed, no trip to sydney is complete without clambering aboard the famous picture postcard green and yellow ferries and Rachels first trip. It was then to catch ferry to Watson Bay which chug out from the main hub Circular Quay heading east only stopping at Rose Bay before arriving at Watson Bay. The fishing village is one of the most favoured picnic and family fun zones in a Sydney with lots of grass and sand on which to enjoy fish n chips. Walk up to the Gap first which is an ocean cliff on the South head peninsula which is a popular visitor distinction but has also gained infamy for suicides. Suicides not an overly pleasant activity for any beauty spot to be associated with, but unfortunately due to the cliff top being high above a shallow patch of ocean. So it paints a rather grim picture of the area however it does have its redeeming features, mainly the view.. Standing at the Gap you can see far out over the ocean with views South and North, and amazing views over the harbour of the bridge. So that's very pleasant, it's just the other bit that's isn't quite as nice! It was then to the iconic Doyle's on the wharf for fish n chips which are good but think it is the location which makes it more worth the visit. I had calamari with mine was good but not best had but still not sure why you get the chilli plum sauce much prefer tomato or tartare sauce. Was a nice day so ended up laying on the grass for abit but funny watching all the birds waiting for our food. Someone was getting married here which is a lovely location but not sure if I liked the idea been surrounded by sunbathes. Walk abit more whilst waiting for ferry back to quays and didn't realise was a baths might have to try next time here. Got to city 5pm straight for milkshake back at Baskin Robbin as Rachel really liked so she had another ice-cream. Vanessa also in city with Roberto and offered to give us a lift back but never heard back so just got train and bus, luckily didn't have to wait too long got back 6.30. Once in sort through pictures then thought best get ready decided to wear necklace from Tiago with blue dress, just had toastie for dinner. Left 9ish all 4 of us as thought last entry to Skytower 10pm but got there and told last entry 9.30pm so would not let us in. So instead we went to Obar near Wynyard which is a resolving bar and restaurant on the 47th floor which luckily closes midnight. At first when we were seated we weren't near the window but then luckily one came available and get a even better 360 degree view of Sydney. Was far too much with cocktails the girls all had cocktails but Roberto opted to just have a Whisky. Luckily we had time to try 2 different one first I had the grilled pineapple and agave martini which caramelised pineapple and agave with vodka and caramel liquer. I then had the clover club which one gin, raspberries and lemon which I think preferred as not as sweet but Rachel had the mandarin and orange blossom martini very nice. We all share tapas which was just nuts, hummus, sweet potato crisps and bread was good to nibble at. Left at 12 saw Max Brenner was open so thinking could have something before go home but unfortunately was just shutting. So just train back and luckily buses still running got in 1am and Rachel still hungry so had pancake with Nutella since couldn't have Max Brenner and sleep 2ish.

• The view view southe gap offers amazing views off the bridge

Work 3 days over Christmas

Woke up in night and then eventually got up 9 but didn't really feel like Christmas Day but Christmas film on a TV. By 10.30 Rachel still asleep so decided would go for a run only did 2.57 miles non-stop but was raining lightly. When got in Rachel still in bed but Vanessa and Roberto up so opened presents from each she got me some pj's and Vaneesa liked her bracelet. Rachel eventually got up 11.30 and then eventually open rest of presents after 12 got purse from Lou and Nat got me Clairns cream set. Rachel got me Swarovski necklace, Nat in South Africa got me star scarf and Hayley had got me chocolates. Wasn't really sure if Rachel liked her nicole fendel bracelet but at least was unique to Australia as made by Melbourne designer and Vanessa also kindly got Rachel some earrings. We hadn't really said what we were doing for Christmas but Vanessa and Roberto ended up making lunch which was very nice as hadn't expected it. It wasn't like my usual Christmas Day food but still very nice had Roast chicken with pineapple and carrot dressing, potato & chicken salad and bread. Was all very nice but definitely had plenty off chicken and then their all took me to work as raining. Think Rachel was abit disappointed as was hoping would be able to go to Bondi a Beach but decided against since raining. Once at work only open to 10 patients but 1 patient been specialised so spilt the ward so ended up only having 3 patients each. So had a very nice shift all my patients were independent but unfortunately couldn't find my Secret Santa present. We all put reindeer antlers on so felt abit more Christmassy also since quiet gave me chance to do some off my e-learning. When left was raining so Jin very kindly gave me lift but only dropped me off at train station but at least kept me dry but then stupidly left umbrella in her car. I then thought I best phone Tiago to wish him Happy Christmas but not opened his presents from me yet as wanted to do with me and was fine. Once home speak home at 10.30pm with Rachel to everyone all at Sharon's was nice but Ellie getting cheeky kept saying 'No Mummy'. Also was the first time seen Nanna since hip operation and looked so well also won't be long now til Mum and Dad here. Rachel then insisted that I have wine since Christmas so had a glass with Vanessa's homemade bread then bed 11.30pm. Woke up before alarm have cup of tea then go to work at work I was specialing patient which was nice for a change so had nice shift. Since Boxing Day decided we would have take away bit not many places so ended up having pizza and Jin very kindly treated so all by paying for it all. Finished before 3 which must of been a first time for us but took longer to get home as shopping centre shut since public holiday. Once back home was home alone as Rachel gone out with Vanessa and Roberto for the day into the city sale shopping. Was thinking off going for a swim but sounded very noise with kids so instead just sat on balcony to read my book. I then made tea a Thai green chicken curry for later for everyone as would celebrate Xmas again. Everyone else got in 6ish and Rachel likes shopping but couldn't believe how busy it was in the city and bought nothing which was a surprise. But Vanessa and Roberto got some things Roberto got so e new tennis which he wanted but think had nice day. Tiago arrived 7ish and I finished making tea curry with rice but ended up making too much rice which is what I usually do. It wasn't the best Thai green curry that I have made but went down well apart from Roberto thought it was abit too hot. For pudding we had Xmas pudding with brandy custard which no-one had had before and even Tiago tried as not a big dessert fan. It was then mince pies with brandy cream which Tiago decided against having which in away wish I had as so full. Vanessa and Roberto preferred mince pies to Christmas pudding which most people seem to. We then chilled for abit watching TV then I went to Tiago's just before 11pm not sure Rachel pleased about it but can't keep everyone happy. Got to his just after 11 and his parents had been Boxing Day sake shopping at Bondi Junction got loads was boxes everywhere. Went straight to his room not sure when went to sleep but woke up 6ish so woke Tiago up and awake for abit then woke up 9.30. But somehow we still didn't get moving til 11.30 and Tiago never ended up opening presents but said will open later. Left his just after 12 and once home Rachel waiting to go out to the beach whilst I got changed for work Tiago went to get coffee. At work now open to 12 patients so I ended up looking after 6 patients but still not that busy did more e-learning and helped other nurse do hers. Had nice shift even had a nurse floating who did most of my obs for me but nothing eventful just the usual high temperature. Finish before 10pm and Michelle gave me lift home and waited til Rachel let me in before she left. Once in had last mince pie and cup of tea then phone Mum to check ready to leave tomorrow and packed my dresses. Went to bed midnight and woke up 6ish to go to the toilet and back to sleep. 

Christmas Eve

Can't believe is now Christmas Eve got up 8am watch last episode 'Hart of Dixie' so not sure what I will watch now, prepared fruit for work tomorrow and chilled. Was thinking off going for a run whilst waiting for Rachel to get up but never got any further than that and Rachel got up 10ish. Eventually got moving 11.30 and not sunbathing weather but needed to get Vanessa a Xmas present as saw one off me from her under tea. So went to Rhodes shopping centre to see if could find anything for her but unfortunately was nothing. Then it was off to Coles to do our Xmas shopping since shut 2days from tomorrow think was there nearly an hour. Haven't spent that much in a while and had that much stuff actually bought the shopping trolley up to flat as far too much to carry. Had something to eat and left after 2ish to go to DFO was surprised only took 20 minutes to get there using train and bus. It looked liked everything else was open now but unfortunately wasn't much choice and few shops now not there. Very disappointing but at least managed to get what I went for Vanessa's Xmas present got her a beaded bracelet. Time then for coffee and cake I just had muffin which was ok but not the best I had, Rachel disappointed with her carrot cake. It was then time to head home to get ready for tonight as going to Tiago's families as their celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve. Once home shower and Rachel not keen to go to Tiago's as wouldn't know anyone but said I wouldn't know that many people as more going who I haven't met. She also wasn't impressed that had to get train and bus to his and he wasn't picking up but he had been working today got there 7.30ish. Went straight to his and after a few minutes left for his brother and sister in laws place in Cremorne was a few people there who not met before. At 8ish their did a service for 30 minutes singing songs and did prays in both Portuguese and English as was another person who didn't speak Portuguese. It was then time for food and was plenty to choose from the main dish been ham was a few sweets but nothing that appealed to me so had none. His cousins little girl was their was only 2 years old was very cute and kept doing hi fives with everyone. It was then Secret Santa gifts which I didn't know about as felt a little guilty as Diego and Gabrielle got me a present a stripe dress was very nice. Tiago also very kindly got Rachel a present a bottle of Baileys which when he wasn't she told me she didn't like, but it was the thought that counted. Then Tiago took me to one side to give me my present which he had chosen himself a beautiful sapphire and silver necklace. Unfortunately Tiago couldn't open his presents from me as we had foolishly left them at his place so he will have to open tomorrow. There had also hidden 2 stickers in the place and their was one under one chair, the gift was heart serving spoons. At the end of the night Tiago wasn't happy as wanted us both to go home with him and said 'No' since Rachel didn't want to. So it left abit off an awkward situation as if Rachel had not been there I would off stayed at his but Rachel wouldn't stay as it wasn't in the plan. Also in the way would off been easier if Rachel had stayed at mine as could tell didn't really want to be there or enjoy herself. Also we had planned to catch the last train home but we ended up missing so had to get taxi back but wasn't sure where we were so Gabrielle spoke to them. Phoned at 2.10 and said would be 10-15 minutes but never showed so had to re-phone and turned up 2.50. Luckily the journey only took 15 minutes to get home and was only $60 which was better than I expected. But Rachel insisted on getting taxi receipt as said only missed train because of Tiago so he should pay, but doubt that will happen. But once in couldn't get to sleep because could tell Tiago and Rachel didn't like each other eventually went to sleep 4ish.