Photo Heaven

From the Sun to the Snow!

2011-08-19T14:11:00.015+10:00

We recently had a short family holiday at the snow. Our brood with my Sister & Brother-in-law's and my wonderful Mother & Father in-law. It was a full house with plenty of energy!! As the Mother of 3 girls, boys are always a bit of shock to my system. My Sister-in-law has 2 boys that are really good kids, but they are like mud magnets and never stop!! It was a great couple of days, here are some pictures from our break...

The front valley at Perisher from the chair lift.

I really enjoy skiing but it takes alot of mental concentration for me to remain upright!Here is Ad with our eldest daughter..

Schnapps around the fire.
The kids loved having this fire and running around in the dark...It really is the simple things.

My Nephews in a running race..Big Brothers always win!!

The beautiful Pender Lea Chalets

I love this landscape, when I see this image this is what I start to think;

'I love a sunburnt country
a land of sweeping plains
Of rugged mountain ranges
of drought and flooding rains'
Dorothea MacKellar

Bali Love

2011-06-09T14:26:00.008+10:00

After a bumpy start to the year, I am back. We have not long returned from Bali and I feel a little re-energised.

This was my first trip to Bali, and it was just stunning. Not classically beautiful, but a beauty no less. The relaxed lifestyle (such are holidays!), the warm days and nights, the cocktails and the water..............Hope you enjoy my trip as much as I did

Legian Beach at sunrise

Annaliese taking Beth for a turn on the Jet Ski - Nusa Dua

Ad watching the sunset (OK maybe it was the waves!) at Ullawatu

Candlelight Cocktails, can't go past a Lychee Martini

Sunset at Jimbaran Bay

Monkey Forest at Ubud

Beach dining - Jimbaran Bay

The Dancing Queen

2011-02-14T10:04:00.006+11:00

You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life......

She is young and sweet....

She is the dancing Queen....

I have been a little distracted

2011-02-02T20:46:00.004+11:00

My distraction and our local

Summer hol's are over, children back at school or in my case - my babies just starting school, my big girl in her second year at high school!!

Where does the time go? The beach and some really hot weather have kept me away from blogland......returning soon.......

Tis the Season.....

2010-12-27T02:28:00.003+11:00

Wishing everyone a little Joy this time of year. Merry Christmas

Portraits

2010-12-06T21:19:00.009+11:00

I was sitting in Bella's room watching her play, with camera ready. She asked me if I was taking photos of her, which I replied I was not....'Just taking photos of your toys Belle'. We chatted and laughed and I got this great shot of her

I was looking at the beautiful Carla Coulson's blog http://carlalovesphotography.blogspot.com/ in particular her French Essence Portraits..this inspired me to take a few of my own and then add some older ones as well

We were getting ready to go to a wedding. My husband was looking out the window waiting for me as I was checking my camera when I got this shot.

A week or so ago I was confined to the walls of my house with sick children (yes, my turn came too!). At the end of that very long week I took Beth out to get a few shots. It was late afternoon and the sun was that flattering warm shade the makes your skin glow when I got this shot.

This shot is from the weekend just passed. My beautiful sister-in-law and my brand new nephew. I love how comfortable they look in each others arms. Such a precious moment of a new mother with her child.

We recently celebrated Shell's 40th Birthday. This is Shell with her husband, such wonderful friends and a stunning couple! It pays to have a camera in your hand all the time ;)

This is the flag race (they are really only plastic sticks) at Nippers. That is our Beth centre stage..

OK, this is from quite a while ago and really is not a portrait of anyone, rather of a very special place VENICE...
the buildings, the people, the ambiance ...sigh

2010-11-22T06:10:00.016+11:00

After a long hiatus, I am back!!! My computer has not been very obliging and if it says no one more time, it's gone. I have not been able to view my photos or add/edit ANYTHING on this lemon. It has been a problem child from the beginning.

Anyway we recently went to the beautiful South Coast of NSW to visit my Grandmother and great Uncle. Whilst we were there we got out and about to visit some stunning locations.

This is the gorgeous Kangaroo Valley. It was a rainy, hazy day when we visited, which is perfect for scones, jam & cream. This is inland and has beautiful country properties everywhere you look. You can see from the lush green grass that the drought has well and truly broken.

The very inviting and gorgeous cafe Bella at Kangaroo Valley

Just one of the many stunning beaches we visited

The working harbour of Ulladulla

I just love old boats and the way they weather. The rust, the barnacles and the beautiful thick, textured rope on them.Mum and Dad introduced me to this bush/coastal walk at Milton, and it is not to be missed! This walk details the life of the Aborigines in the area and how they were affected when white man came to Australia.

The Aboriginal community have used the local Aboriginal reserves to put this story together. There are a series of stunning carvings, poignant words and a truly magical walk. We don't do enough to learn about our Aboriginal heritage here in Australia. I would love to see Schools using this walk as a learning tool.

Unfortunately this area is a magnet for vandals and some of the carvings have been lost to fires that have been purposely lit! But here is some of what you can see.

The entrance to the bush walk, a gorgeous carving that incorporates the land and sea.

My Father and eldest daughter setting out on the walk

Everything created is around us, but you teach your children behind closed doors and thank your creator behind walls?

Some of the carvings

Had to include this shot!

If ever you get the chance to visit the South Coast, look up this walk at Milton. It really is special.

The Winter That Was...

2010-09-19T19:09:00.003+10:00

Playing on the sand dunes with Dad and

scooting on the beach front with Winston the Wombat

With Spring well and truly in the air I am happy to declare Winter is over!!! Although we can't really complain about Winter down under, it is nice to get some warmth in the air again.

What a find! Sommersby Falls

As you can see my Winter still revolves around the beach. Little girls swimming in the ocean in July (Brrrr), scooting on the beach front, discovering some local water falls, lots of coffee, park and play time.

Unfortunately we have also had some nasty computer viruses, that have kept me away from blog land! (look out for a particularly persistant virus call my web search).

We also had a sleep over/bake off!! My eldest daughter and 4 of her friends participate in the RSPCA cup cake fund raiser. It was our year to host the event. This involves a (mandatory) sleepover and the girls (and mother) making heaps of cupcakes, decorating and selling them! The girls managed to pull in $300 odd dollars.

Did I mention the dancing?? Yes, there was a little bit of dancing and we even managed to squeeze in a child free night at the spectacular Shoal Bay.

Shoal Bay on a perfect Winters Day!

Harley's at the Bay

Let the Production Begin!

2010-08-15T11:04:00.020+10:00

That's my daughter on the end in the black - out of costume!

The past few months have seen our life here consumed with dance. My eldest daughter is involved in the annual rock eisteddfod for high schools throughout NSW, this year known as talent storm.

The very talented and ambitious teachers put together an amazing production. Notes, planning, positioning and more notes help to pull it together. It's not all sequins and braids!!

These performances are a 'dance off' between all the schools with awards going to the top 3 performances. It is a highly sought after recognition of dance/performance/staging and last year our school came in at 2nd.

Unfortunately funding was dropped by the federal government this year but in its place we have talent storm.

These photos were taken at rehearsal. The production is massive! and commitment from both child and parents is huge. The kids have been practising as part of their sport since the start of the year, with June, July and August seeing the weekends slowly swallowed by practice, practice, practice. Now on the cusp of the performance every Sunday is taken up by rehearsal for the students and parents helping out with costumes and stage sets.

The talented Ms Dyson watching over the rehearsal

When you are not a good sewer (flat out sewing a button on a shirt!) you get to glue, paint, tie and iron whatever is thrown your way.

The racks of costumes that all needed ironing

I tied the elastic on all of these masks!!

I have to say that I have enjoyed being involved in this production and when dress rehearsal was on it was a great opportunity to take my camera and shoot away.

Low light, hand held and lots of movement make for a challenging shoot for me, but I am pretty pleased with the results.

Storming the stage with talent and doing us proud!

An Aussie take on all things Scottish

2010-07-27T20:15:00.002+10:00

I have been trying to write this post for a week!! It is light and fluffy, so you would think I could manage it. My little girls have different ideas about how I should be spending my time....

My wee bonnie lassies sizing up the clowns

and the prizes to be won

A recent visit to my Husbands 93 year old grandmother at the beautiful country town of Wingham a few months ago saw us having a look at the annual Scottish festival that is held here.

The town itself is beautiful and the festival was a bit of fun. Some traditional pole throwing (??), I am sure there is a more Scottish term for the event, bagpipes and good old fashioned tug-o-war. Kilts a plenty but no haggis for us thanks!!

A band practising before they take centre stage

My parents have started to research Mums side of the family tree and what do you know the family originated from Scotland! A very difficult search on smiths that were also known as Jones!! They seem to be light on details like dates and correct names and there are a few skeletons getting a shake up in that wardrobe.

I love this very Australian looking pub.

Complete with Ute (at very front of picture) and gum leaves framing the shot

Medieval fun lurking in this tent

A Scottish landscape? Perhaps not

A very proud Grandpa trotted bonnie Bella through the festival.

The jacket and beret were worn by her Auntie 30 odd years ago!

Grandma has lovingly looked after this beautiful outfit

We asked both our girls if they wanted

to wear the jacket and beret.

Our very determined and very individual Beth said no-way,

Our ever obliging Bella was happy

to don the outfit for her Grandma & Grandpa.

I think she wears it well

Winter Sunsets at Harrington

2010-06-26T21:52:00.006+10:00

'If you had your time over again

Would you do it all the same?

Down through all the twists and bends

Are there moments you'd erase?'

'And if your course could be reset

Would you steer your ship my way?

Or would you sail the widest stretch

Just to feel the force of the waves?

If you had your time over again

Would you sail the widest stretch?

If you had your time over again.........

Contemplation provided by Powderfinger, sail the widest stretch

Images...me

B Well

2010-06-21T19:26:00.006+10:00

I completed my 2nd fun run on Sunday. A sparkling day for a 12km run. I am feeling strong...Invincible....

I am women hear me roar

The finish line is in sight

Me with 2 of my girls after the run. I love a child's view of the world...when I finished Beth asked me if I won, my reply was everyone's a winner in this race Beth (I do use this line a lot with my girls), she laughed and said but did you win? Well yes i did (beat my time from last year)..

The B Well blog has helped me kick along with my training. I was struggling with my consistency, but there is a lot of ideas and inspiration to help you 'pick up your game' if you need it!

Lunch Anyone?

2010-06-17T18:38:00.006+10:00

There is nothing I love more than a long lunch. It is such a luxury and pleasure and at the moment a very difficult thing to achieve with a couple of 4 year olds and a tweenager!!

Little fish winery at Port Macquarie is a perfect setting and allows all of us to enjoy a long lunch. There are great climbing trees for the littlest girls and it even brings out the little girl in my tween. The summer wine is too easy to drink and there are often kangaroos roaming through the vines.

If ever you are in this neck of the woods make sure you drop in for a visit. We always book the gazebo outside, but there is also beautiful dining on the deck of the cafe.

Picture perfect in every way! My Mother & Father in law introduced us to this beautiful winery and now we always make sure a visit to Little Fish is fitted in when we stay with them.

Beautiful food, great company and good wine....sorry, not a crumb left.

The seasons they are changing

2010-05-25T20:41:00.013+10:00

An Autumn sky littered with leaves

As I get older I appreciate the turn of seasons a whole lot more. I have always been a summer lover, but that is changing and Autumn holds a special place in my heart.

Maybe it is because my trip of a life time happened in that season, maybe it is because that is the season I married my great love, maybe it is the colours and the temperature....The change of hot, hot weather to cooler, comfortable weather. It allows me to breathe, to run, to change.........

Just 10 or so minutes from the beach you will find beautiful properties at Matcham. I love the wooden fences and the way the trees drape over them

Anyway I am enjoying the show mother nature is putting on for us at the moment..Her colour palette so rich and ever changing, the colours are not what you could dream. She is a grand artist and I am her humble follower....I hope you enjoy her grandeur as much as I do.

I love the look of this property, nestled in the ever changing trees

There was so much colour in this photo that I decided to simplify it and take the colour out. What appeals to me is the wood pile under the tree, next to a rickety fence. The fence is actually pink, the tree all gold and red, a bright blue tarp to the right of the picture and the grass a vivid green.

Now this little beauty goes against the gold and red leaves of Autumn, but she is just so beautiful. Camellia's are in bloom in my garden and are the most perfectly formed flowers. I love the dark green glossy leaves against the pale pink of the flower. She gets it so right!

Keep running, running and running, running

2010-05-20T22:45:00.024+10:00

A clear blue sky....no excuses!!!

I am now on the downhill slide to my 12km fun run and am terribly unprepared!! My world has been one big juggle and the ball that always gets dropped is training time. That said I am determined to do this run and I will....Anyway I thought I might share a few of my training sights and my training buddies that keep me going (You have to sing to this one - let me hear you....loud and proud)

The lake that divides...This one splits Avoca into two distinct areas Avoca & North Avoca.

As I start my run Michael and I are getting 'Elegantly Wasted' with the rest of INXS. Such a good track to find your rhythm to. We run, we hide, we want the good life...I want the good life too Michael!

JT kicks me into gear by telling me he's bringing sexy back.I reply Yeeaahh them other boys don't know how to act..take it to the chorus JT. I will be getting my sexy out after the run, thanks anyway..

Meredith Brooks makes me smile as 'Bitch' belts out of my ipod, I hate the world today!!!!

I'm a little bit of everything all rolled into one - I'm with you Meredith, cause I'm nothing in between either.

Take me as I am, this may mean you'll need to be a stronger man....I am singing out loud to this one. Go the girls!!

Tone Loc keeps me going with wild thing. Love the start 'Lets do it' - I'm with you Tone....I'm doing it. 80's tragic I know.

The Cat Empire makes me want to salsa to 'fishies', dance, dance, dance oh no...it should be run, run, run. It gives me my second wind...Welcome fishies to my hook.

The shoes that will take me there

The Cruel Sea's 'Honeymoon is over' gives me strength and power....I won't let you cook for me baby its never gonna get that far....

hey it ain't no fun no more, I don't know what to say the honeymoon is over baby it's never gonna be the same again. Yeah!!!

George Michael sings 'I won't let you down, I will not give you up' on Freedom 90 - Me neither Michael, stay with me.

Princes 'Raspberry Beret' - the kind you find in a second hand store kicks me along. I want one of those too and if it was warm I might not wear much more either!! (need to click up a few more k's for that though).

Robbie Williams and I have 'come undone' - Robbie tells me 'if I keep lying then I'd just disappoint you' - I don't think so Robbie, keep singing for me baby...

Santana and Rob Thomas give me some Latin groove in 'smooth' - give me your heart, make it real or just forget about it. Another track I want to dance to but push on through and keep running.

All roads lead to ...the beach

Just a few of my friends that help me through my run..

These are a few of my favourite things..

2010-05-06T18:30:00.018+10:00

My gorgeous Annaliese is such a beautiful soul. Her smile is as warm as she is. She is also my most obliging model

OK, I will warn you that this post is dedicated to my gorgeous girls. Girls who are full of life and have the wonder of the world in front of them.

So here goes my brag post....hope you enjoy

Beth in a rock star moment...statement sunnies and lots of attitude

Can you hear her laughing?

Trying for a smile and not succeeding! A grainy/textured layer for this shot. What do you think? I'm not sure about this...

So you think you can dance? Getting ready for the stage.

Love Bethy's freckles and cheeky smile

A pensive moment for our Belle. A gentle little girl with an incredible imagination. She is the first to share her toys, food..anything.

Love the light from the candles for this shot.

My attempt at a high key photo

Inspiration - Jennifer Hawkins, Myer catalogue. Trying to replicate the pose.

The ever questioning, never accepting and always loving Beth. She has such a questioning little mind. Whilst a little taxing from a 4 year old, I hope it is something she never loses

We will remember them.....

2010-04-26T17:10:00.011+10:00

As dawn breaks throughout Australia and New Zealand, services are held all over the Countries to commemorate and remember the diggers that have fought and lost their lives in war.

The ANZAC's as they were known fought at Gallipoli in Turkey during World War 1. ANZAC day marks the anniversary (25th April) of the first major military action fought by these forces. Now ANZAC day more broadly commemorates the lives of those who died and served in the armed forces for their countries.

It was a dawn landing for the troops on that day in 1915 and the Gallopili campaign saw 21,255 casualties from the UK, an estimated 10,00 from France, 8,709 from Australia, 2,721 from New Zealand and 1,358 from British India.

So it is at dawn that the sombre services are held, the last post is played, wreaths are layed at war memorials.....Lest we forget those who have given their lives in war..

Wreaths and photos laid at the war memorial at Terrigal

It was a wet morning for the services this year. Terrigal did not disappoint....So good to see so many people turning up for the service even in this wet weather. This picture doesn't really capture it! This was after the service and the crowd quickly headed in the direction of shelter. All the cafes were doing a roaring trade for 5.30am!

The Haven, Terrigal at Dawn

My grandfathers were POW in World War 2. They were held at Changi and survived...I will remember them x

Growers Market

2010-04-11T19:00:00.005+10:00

The growers market is held on the first Sunday of every month here at Avoca. I love to wander through and have a good look at what is on offer.

The produce always looks amazing from the crisp apples, fresh bread and cakes, organic coffee, vegetables and meat, herbs and plants, oils and dukkah and so much more.

It is something I must indulge in once a month!

I always end my visit with a brioche and coffee

The plants and vegetables beautiful and fresh, and advice freely given away ....

The people watching is pretty good too! Not a bad spot to enjoy your Sunday paper...

Although officially Autumn the temperatures are still hovering in the high 20's-low 30's. This siren below had the perfect spot to watch the surf, sun and sand. She looked like a mermaid on a rock, I had to capture her!

Now what would any of my post's be without the beach? These young guns were sizing up the swell before jumping in from the rocks

My gorgeous girls who (sometimes begrudgingly) accompany me to the markets. There is always the promise of a play in the park, swim at the beach or walk on the rocks.....

The Passion of The Christ

2010-03-28T08:44:00.003+11:00

The passion perched upon a hilltop above Positano

It is hard to travel through Europe and not get blown away by the passion of religion. From Christ, the Madonna, John the Baptist, the Popes and beyond.....The Crucifix's, the churches, the sculpture and the paintings. The towns are adorned with them everywhere you look.

Although not a 'practising' Catholic, (or an overly religious person) all this religion has made me think about my faith. I really felt deeply connected to spirituality on this trip and it has made me think about it even more since my return home!

I have always loved crucifix's and to be truthful Madonna (the pop star and not the mother of Christ) was my earliest influence. I loved the multiple crucifix's hanging from her neck, and of course her music resonated with my sullen teenage years. I know it all sounds so shallow but such is the life of a 14 year old teenage girl!

Well fast forward 25 odd years and the crucifix still holds a fascination for me, but on a completely different level. For me it is an amazing story......It is faith, forgiveness, belief, sorrow & strength.

I have wanted to do a post on my collection of crucifix's and with Easter fast approaching thought this would be a good opportunity to display some of the passion.

The crucifix at the Colosseum had a very eerie feel to it.....so much blood had been shed here.

The churches in Europe were amazing to say the least. I was in awe of them and prayed at every opportunity.

With Vienna being our first stop, I just looked up with my mouth open and took so many photos. Welcome to the world little girl!!

Italy and religion go hand in hand, but I was not prepared for the grandeur and splendor of it all....Of course Vatican city takes the cake for religion, but man it is unbelievable the scale and beauty and age of some of these buildings. I have said it before and I will say it again, I loved being a Catholic in Italy..

The grand St Marco, Vinezia

Some Alpine crucifix's in Austria

Here are some home grown Churches and crucifix's. We don't quite do them like Europe, but they are still impressive to me.

In the name of the Father and of the son and of the Holy Ghost......Amen.

Happy Easter to you all xx

Inspiration

2010-02-28T18:53:00.003+11:00

Mon and I circa 1974 My big sister turned 40 on Friday and we celebrated her birthday over the weekend. I wanted to share her story with you. Mind you this story is from my perspective...It is about overcoming the odds, never saying 'I can't', steely determination and large servings of love from a family that is always there.

My sister and I were born in Australia, but our first 8 or so years were spent idyllically in New Zealand. We both have such wonderful childhood memories from that time. It was a simple life, a good life. My sister was always a bit feistier than me. You would find her climbing trees and swinging off their limbs, jumping in puddles and getting into mischief. I on the other hand would watch in awe in my perfectly white frilly dress. She was fiercely protective of me and we were the best of friends. I referred to my sister as Mon, not quite being able to get my tongue around Simone. To this day it has stuck and everyone knows her as Mon.

It was the 18th December 1992, a week before Christmas. Simone was 22 and I had celebrated my 21st birthday in September of that year. We were organising our annual family get together for the coming weekend with Christmas day being just around the corner. I remember this day so clearly, a day that changed our lives forever.

I was at work when my Father called me to tell me that Mon had been in a car accident.

'Is she OK?' - This was not the first time she had been in a car accident, but all of them had been minor. Dad simply replied ' I don't know', and neither of us knew what to say or do. I rang the hospital to find out what was going on. The Doctor I spoke to told me that she had suffered a brain injury and was in a critical state, he urged me not to ring again and to inform other relatives not to call. I was in a state of shock. When I arrived at the hospital and enquired at the information desk, I was told she was in intensive care. I felt instantly sick......

Both Mon and I love this shot. I was completing a make up artist course and she was my model.

We also found out that Simone was in the first 4 weeks of pregnancy. She had sent me a Christmas card the week prior with a hint she may be pregnant. She was waiting to find out. To say this complicated things would be an understatement.

Like his mum, Trent also beat the odds...

All we could do is wait and pray and hope. Mum and Dad never, never, never gave up. They were there every day. I would see her every weekend and ring Mum every other day expecting her to say, she 'woke' up..I would imagine we would all have a laugh and tell her never to scare us like that again. But that is what happens in the movies, not in real life. Real life is much, much harsher.

My sister stayed in Hospital for 2 years. During that time she gave birth to her son Trent, she learnt to walk, talk, brush her teeth and hair all over again. When I think about that time I really believe that Simone's brain just had to shut down to heal. The Doctors did not give us much hope, but everyone is different and how they respond, rehabilitate and heal will be different each time. The Doctors gave us their opinion on what the rest of her life might look like and it was not that bright....

Simone and Trent sharing a birthday kiss

Well she is certainly a fighter, a very strong individual who came out swinging. She progressed from a wheel chair to a walking frame to a walking stick, to walking unaided. She learnt to drive again and has had her license for many years. She has skydived, rock climbed, spoken publicly about the effects of her accident in the hope of educating young drivers, completed a body sculpting competition, and has blown everyone out of the water with her determination.

A story within a story. My Sister was the first disabled athlete to compete in a body sculpting competition. It was covered by the local paper as well as channel 9's sports Sunday.

We first met Ron Oxley at his Gym in Penrith. Mum took Simone there when she eventually came home to live with them. Ron has played such a big part in this story. He trained her for life and whipped her into shape. He pushed her hard and was one of the forces behind her every motivation. From walking to driving to abseiling and beyond... Ronnie has a special place in all of our hearts, and he won Mon's...Love ya Ronnie xx

Not once did I hear my sister say 'why me?', not once did she ever think she couldn't do what she wanted to do.

My wonderful parents
Mum and Dad of course have been through every up and down of this journey. Throughout this time they just stayed with Mon. They believed, they had faith and most importantly they had hope. As a parent you know that you would do whatever needs to be done for your child, but actually seeing this in action is amazing. It is a display of strength and love like nothing you will ever see. I hope for those reading this you will just know that this type of love and strength is in your heart and in the heart of your parents. I hope that you don't have to see that love and strength tested and put into action, the way that I did.

Mon with Mum and Dad at her 40th
So the story of Mon continues. She is a working mother of a 17 year old boy. she is planning to participate in a fundraising bike ride from Sydney to Melbourne. A leisurely 900 km!! Stay tuned for that one.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Mon, we love you xx

Just Add Water..

2010-02-21T11:27:00.042+11:00

Avoca Beach at twilight
This post is my water therapy. A few pics of some of my favourite waterways. I love to be around water, It gets into your soul and leaves you feeling better than ever.

Fishing off the rocks at Avoca
Something fishy is happening around Avoca!
Now this is a beach party! Chairs, tables and candles set up on Avoca beach at the end of Australia Day
I reckon I could live on this boat! The beautiful Pittwater host's Sydney's rich and famous as well as a few of us mere mortals..

A wow moment in my life. When I saw Wagstaffe wharf it absolutely took my breath away. I took a heap of photos and had to send one to my husband via my mobile phone.

Ice blocks dribbling down arms screams of summer

Manning River - who said a cloudless blue sky is a photographers nightmare? I love them.

Camels on the beach at Port Macquarie

A hazy day in Queensland - the skyline in the distance is surfers paradise

My Italian obsession - Italy we have some unfinished business, I will be back xx

One of the worlds most famous waterways - Venezia

Castle Sant'Angelo - Roma - through the trees

The breathtaking Sirmione, Lago Di Garda

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful Positano...........always in my dreams, forever in my heart x

From Italy to Sydney - Our Icon catches my attention. All shots were from North Sydney. Another favourite place of mine.

North Sydney had been part of my life for about 15 years. It was my place of work from the ages of 18 - 33 and was the constant in my life.

'We shared some history this town and I' - Cold Chisel, Flame Trees

My god that is so appropriate when I think of North Sydney.

I believe Nth Syd is Sydney CBD's older, wiser sister. She has just the right amount of shops and cafes, she is smart and stylish, she has retained so much of her yesteryear glory and she has been a wonderful friend of mine xx

The Bridge and Luna Park all lit up

The board walk along Luna Park

There just is no bad perspective of the bridge!

My in-laws live on the mid-North coast in a sleepy little town called Harrington.

There are no traffic lights, but lot's of dolphins, mobile reception is dodgy and the local pub is the best place to end the day. You are forced to slow down and unwind. We try to go there often.

Crowdy Bay

Dolphins at Crowdy - I still get so excited when I see Dolphins! We were just driving past when I spotted them - DOLPHINS, DOLPHINS!! Stop the car...No sooner was the car stopped then I jumped out yelling for the kids to follow. They are so majestic I could watch them for hours
The end of our weekend at Harrington

We all Need Somebody to Lean on...

2010-02-16T21:00:00.006+11:00

Fisherman sharing a moment at Avoca Beach rocks

It's nice to have people in this world that are there for you, who can lend a hand, an ear or a shoulder. We have so much to learn from the people in our lives, and so much to share. From children, family, friends to people who are just passing through.

Our families come together on Christmas day

Our Family are often our starting point in life's learning's and should continue throughout our lives. We have a great bunch to learn from here...

My muse (when I get the chance!)....this shot may look a bit staged, but Ad had no idea I was taking this shot.

My great love....I have learnt so much from him and continue to do so. He is my soft place to fall, my supporter and advocate. Your life partner should be all of this.

Kindy Christmas concert 2009

There have been quite a few days where I have been tearing into pre-school, tears in my eyes and rushed for life! You know those mornings where nothing goes right and your children are pressing all your buttons, pushing the boundaries and you are late for work. The beautiful teachers at my girls pre-school have taught me a lot. They are never judgemental and always willing to offer words of support, encouragement and quite often words of wisdom! From Miss Jesse to Miss Anthea, Fiona, Rhonda and Miss Robyn. Wonderful Women doing wonderful things with our precious children.

You can, can, can....Miss Jane believes in all her students
A very special lady who entered my life when my eldest daughter started dancing. Miss Jane has an enormously generous spirit and is such a great mentor for all that go to her dance school. We have shared many conversations that I still call on today. Alas we moved away from the area, but Miss Jane is one of those people that will stay with you forever..

Kindness and comfort from those we don't' know

Even people we don't know...This kind older man was sitting next to my friend Christel on the Ferry after a day at palm beach. One of her twins, Sean, had obviously had a big day and this wonderful man offered a comfortable arm to sleep on. I think both he and his wife were as taken with Sean as we were with them.

And then of course there is blog land. People I have not met and who live on the other side of my world. Their words ring true, their thoughts considered and inspiring. My favourites are Michael from Santorini http://oiasantorini.com/ and Simone from London http://thebottomoftheironingbasket.blogspot.com/.

Open up your world and listen, look at a different perspective and learn..We can learn so much from each other we just have to be open to it..

Great Southern Land

2010-01-24T21:06:00.001+11:00

"Anyone will tell you it's a prisoner island

hidden in the summer for a million years"

Great Southern Land
Icehouse

Mate.....the 26th of January marks Australia day in this great southern land. You will find BBQ's sizzling all over the country, Aussies will flock to the beaches en masse and the sun will be blazing proudly overhead. Here is a bit of my Australia, hope you like it..

Beaches, beaches, beaches. What would Australia be without our beaches? Can't imagine ever straying too far from the coast..

Surfer Chic

A great Aussie pub at Coopernook

My favourite lunch spot - Little fish winery, Port Macquarie

The Manning River

We Are Strong

2010-01-19T21:17:00.004+11:00

The beginning of the year always marks the list of improvements that you are going to make with yourself, doesn't it? My friend sent me a message saying that as part of her 'every year' resolution she was off to the gym. That made me laugh and I thought yes..so true. Resolutions seem to be the same each year.

My statement shoes

Well of course part of my list involves fitness, with the Christmas cheer of 2009 now placed firmly on my hips. But here is how I would describe it..

I really want to run a half marathon and at this stage have decided that it is a little ambitious for this year. I am going to have to leave that for 2011. I had been thinking about it last year and was discussing this with my sister-in-law, the concept and desire of completing a half marathon.

My first fun run - Bay to Bay 12km's

I believe that women are strong beyond our own belief. I believe we have an inner strength that carries not only us, but our families through this life. We keep order (beds made, everyone has undies), we restore peace (don't you love sibling rivalry), and we council and advise (from school yard drama's, corporate ladders to fashion stylists and everything in between).

We are invincible - My gorgeous sister-in-law, Nikki, and her equally gorgeous husband Marc

Now speaking from my own experience we may not be the best treasurers (but that dress is on sale, is my size and is the only one left! It is a sign that I HAVE to buy it! I hate ignoring those kind of signs). But mostly we are pretty strong individuals. Think of what you have endured in your life, think of what you have achieved, think about how strong you have had to be in really tough times and most importantly believe in yourself (yeah that ones a work in progress, I know).

I have found that distance running is more about mental fitness than physical fitness. You do have to have a level of physical fitness, but I tell you, if you do not believe that you can go the distance you just won't. It is a great challenge and is also great fitness for your mind. It helps you work on your self belief....of course you can do it and you are going to!

We are women

That is what I am working on this year, my mental fitness. That will include distance running (I will stick to the 12km runs for this year), meditation, reading and writing, enjoying the here and now, laughing & smelling the roses, growing my own vegetables and of course photography.

OK on the shallower end I wouldn't mind shedding a few kilos and toning up, otherwise how will I be able to wear that goddamn dress I bought on sale that doesn't quite fit right at the moment!!

My beloved camera
What does your list look like?

Summer Fun

2010-01-14T23:30:00.001+11:00

Beautiful Pittwater

This post is a pictorial reflection of the last 3 weeks or so that I have enjoyed at home.

She is a surfer girl - catching waves at Avoca

A couple of beach bums at Palmy

Palm Beach Wharf

The boys hitting North Avoca for a surf

I took time off work and just made myself available to my kids. We went to the beach, caught a few movies, took a ferry to Palm Beach, did craft at home and didn't rush for anything.

2009 marked the last year of primary school for my beautiful Annaliese - here she is at the year 6 farewell

Scooters from Santa!!

Wagstaffe Wharf on a perfect day

Girls being girls?? One birthday party down....one to go

As I write this post I am preparing for the rush of life to return next week. When the daily/weekly juggle (or is that struggle) of work, kids, husband, school, pre-school, dancing, gym, cooking and cleaning return.

She can jump!!
Need I say?

A friends wedding was held on the foreshore at North Sydney - a perfect day and a perfect setting. Don't you love an icon?
The sun sets on beautiful Sydney Harbour

My gorgeous girls - our life is filled with tiara's, sequins, glitter and masses of pink. Even Ad's bottle opener is pink!

Life is about to bear it's full weight on our shoulders. We are preparing for a busy, busy year. So I am taking a deep breath and about to jump on the treadmill....wish me luck!!

We All Have Wings......

2009-12-14T10:06:00.018+11:00

The beautiful Miss Chelsea, flexing her wings across the stage

I love the INXS song Never tear us apart - there is a line in that song that I have always related to;

'Cause we all have wings, but some of us don't know why'

For a long time I didn't know what my wings looked like, but I am happy to say that I have found them and they are stretched often.

Finding my wings at Lago Di Garda

For me finding my wings only came about when I started making conscious decisions to change my current situation and to create my own happiness. I focused on making positive changes in my life and I have to say I was flooded with rebounding positive energy!

As my changes started to unfold my personal and professional life grew beyond expectation. These changes were coming to me, I was not consciously seeking them out. I absolutely believe if you make positive changes in your life, if they are coming from your heart and you are being true to yourself, then positive activity will find you like a magnet.

My beautiful Annaliese about to fly.... I love these kind of wings..tutu's and ballet shoes

As a parent you would like to share some of your worldly knowledge with your children. I would hate to think that the lessons I have learned throughout life will not be, at the very least, shared with my children. They have to experience life (with all it's ups and downs) for themselves, but you would like to think that part of your ride could be shared and you could have some valuable advice that will help steer them through this world.

My littlest girls are yet to find their wings

I want my children to find their wings early in life, that may or may not happen but I am going to try and help them with that. Their wings may not be what I would choose, and as parents we have to be careful not to impose our own wants, needs or unfulfilled desires onto our children. Their journey may not fit my bill, but it is theirs and we should recognise what it is that makes them fly.........

Twirling, dancing, running.....

My Island Home - Part 2, The Beaches

2009-12-07T10:57:00.021+11:00

The divine Avoca Beach

A Haven - The Haven, Terrigal

I am lucky enough to live in the heartland of some of Australia's most beautiful beaches. I have always believed that a swim in the ocean is good for your soul. It can wash away all of your troubles and make you feel good again. The ocean brings out the child in you - diving through the waves and body surfing into shore. All is good and you are at one with the world when you are in the ocean.

Oh Mr Sandman, send me a dream.......

We love to make a sandman on the beach (our equivalent to a snowman)

Our Local - North Avoca Beach. I love watching the water crash against the rocks. A perfect place to look for crabs and explore the marine life in the rock pools..

On the Northern Beaches of Sydney lies the beautiful Bilgola Beach - This is where my husband grew up. This photo was taken the day of our wedding. We were married at the lookout here. Not bad?

A reflective moment at Surfer's Paradise

The ocean has negative ions that create a positive impact on your mind, body and spirit. When you hear people say things like 'I am going to the ocean to recuperate' or 'The sea air makes me feel better' - it is absolutely true.

Once again, Avoca Beach never disappoints. We love the rock pool here, perfect for kids.

Moving water, moving air and sunlight all cause air molecules to break apart, releasing charged atoms, or ions, into the atmosphere. Some scientists claim that there is an abundance of negatively charged ions in sea air and that they could have health benefits which range from better circulation to improved moods. Negative ions are thought to alleviate depression because of their effect on serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain believed to play an important role in regulating mood. (http://www.firstscience.com/)

The Haven on a sparkling day If you are feeling down, tired or just not 100%, try a swim in the ocean.

Look at that energy! North Avoca This is still being debated in the scientific world, but I am a believer...how about you? Finishing my post to go for a dip in the ocean : )

Friendship

2009-12-01T10:50:00.017+11:00

Friendship in all shapes and sizes - here my husband and his best mate with their respective children on their shoulders

My Father buried one of his oldest and dearest friends this week. This death has made me think alot about our lives, the cycle of life and everything in between. The subject of friendship has been on my mind a lot of late and with the passing of a dear family friend this post is timely.

Here is my dearest friends daughter with my eldest daughter

My husbands best mates daughter with our twin girls

A gaggle of girls that have formed friendships through dance - having fun on a flying fox

Enjoying the Melbourne Cup with some twin friends - All three of us have twins!

We should not underestimate the power of friendship. I believe that some friends come in and out of our lives at different times and for different reasons. Some friendships are not meant to be with us forever and some we have to learn to let go of. There are many that will endure and there are many that we will learn from. I believe that your life will be richer for having (& keeping) friends in them.

It's a twin thing - lucky girls to have each other!
I have often viewed friendships as having an expiry date and/or have been hesitant to enter into them. Upon alot of reflection, in part, that has been due to my constant moving throughout my life, but a bigger part was due to a long term relationship I was in where friendships were not encouraged. I believe subconsciously I let most friendships go or did not invest too much as I was not around long enough to sustain them or did not have the right people in my life who wanted me to have friendships.

Well what is the saying older and wiser! I have lived a little and gone through a bit and am more consciously aware of the power of wonderful friendships. I am also more aware that with any relationship, be it work, friends, husband, children, parents, sisters etc that you will only get out what you are willing to invest. They all require different levels of 'investment' but you have to make time for these relationships.

One of my dear friends that I spend a lot of time with - here is her son with my girls

There is nothing like sharing a coffee and a chat whilst your kids are playing. Some one close by who you can call on to cry, laugh and share your life experiences with!

My bestie, Lyndall - she has supported me and helped through many tough life experiences!

I believe that life is a lesson and this is (another) lesson that I need to teach my girls. Value your friends, invest in your friends and don't let the good ones go!

My wonderful Father

Good bye for now Uncle Bill, we will see you again soon (but not too soon I hope) xx

My Island Home - Part 1

2009-11-16T12:04:00.012+11:00

Here are some of the beautiful waterways where I live. We have not long moved here so we are still discovering this area. Each time we go somewhere new we have an 'Ohhhh that's beautiful moment', we nod our heads and agree this is the reason we moved here (forget the commute for now!).

Flying pig-tails

My girls on the jetty

When I saw the below image the mast's looked like floating crucifix's.

We have these beautiful calm harbour waterways and then the most divine beaches (I will get to the beaches in another post). I have lived on the beaches for a long time, but that was the northern beaches in Sydney. Funny how you can live so close to these area's and never see them. I didn't know how beautiful the central coast was! All part of my journey, getting out there seeing and appreciating what is on my doorstep.

The Race That Stops a Nation

2009-11-06T21:12:00.012+11:00

The first Tuesday in November will see Australia frocked up in beautiful heels, hats, dresses and suits. You will see it at the races, in the city, at your office and at every pub. The TAB will be overflowing with everyone wanting to have a flutter, the talk of the impending favourites and who likes what....everyone has an opinion and it is everywhere. It is the Melbourne Cup....the race that stops a Nation.

Fashions in the field.

This year I was at Copacabana surf club enjoying a sweltering (36 degree) afternoon of fashion, friends, food, bubbly and horses. A fundraising event for a charity called http://www.savethechildren.org.au/ Wonderful people doing wonderful things for the next generation both here in Australia and overseas. The proceeds of this function were aimed at children here in Australia. When you hear the statistics about children who can't read, who are not part of a community where they feel safe and valued, where children have never had the pleasure of having a book read to them...There are some fundamental things that children should have in this world. They should have hope, dreams, faith, love and support. Can you imagine not being able to dream, to not have faith in those around you who should be caring for you or to have no hope, no hope of a bright happy future? Can you imagine not being loved and supported throughout your life? it is very sad indeed and it is happening in our own back yard.

As I found at the last fundraising event I went to, this charity was bowled over by the community spirit that the central coast showed. They did not have to pay for the venue, food, drinks. The donations were incredibly generous and the lovely ladies who were bidding in the auctions were (husband defying) cashed up and happy to part with their $$ all in the name of charity (OK!! there were quite a few dresses in that auction, but all for a good cause).

A great day by an incredibly generous spirited group of ladies. Certainly made me hug my girls a little tighter and read them another story when I got home..

Nearly forgot! The winner of the 2009 Melbourne Cup was SHOCKING...

The Hills Angels

2009-10-18T06:24:00.033+11:00

It is amazing how one person, one life, one story can touch you on so many different levels. This is the story of Hillary and her Hills Angels, as I know it.

The amazing location, Stillwaters - Davistown Waterfront

I had been invited to a fundraising breakfast through a friend and had heard the heartbreaking story of Hillary. A beautiful person who has been struck with a terminal brain tumor. Sadly for Hillary it is a matter of time. If ever there was an example of living in the here and now Hillary and her Angels certainly demonstrate this.

As a new mother Hillary was part of a mothers group, like many of us. It is here that sleep deprived mothers got together to exchange stories about life with children to share a laugh and to support each other in this new life. It is here that firm friendships and bonds were formed. It was so eloquently described by one of the mothers, Lisa, that HILLS angels stands for Help Involves Love, Laughter and Support. When Hillary became ill her friends rallied around. Unfortunately Hillary was continuing to decline in her health. Her husband had to leave work to care for his wife and child. This in turn has left an incredible strain financially. How do you pay your mortgage, put food on the table and care for the people who love and need you without an income? Enter the Hills Angels.
These mothers were determined to do what they could for Hillary and her family and with steely determination stomped there way down the fundraising path with the resolve to ease one part of the stress this family faced. They have formed their own charity - Hills Angels and have linked into the Gosford Lioness club. The president of the club also came to the breakfast and cheered them on as the future generation for the Lioness Club. This is a power to be reckoned with and leaves you in awe of these strong..invincible...women (isn't there a song about that?)

The breakfast had a theme of 'Hats and Heels' and was beautifully done. I was blown away by the community spirit shown. The owner of the restaurant, Domenic, (Stillwaters at Davistown) opened up her restaurant for the morning, the staff donated their wages for the day to the cause, the musicians who performed came up from Sydney (with no payment) at the request from one of the angels. There were bottles of wine donated - not just $10 bottles, but $150 bottles of champagne given away, facials, hair straighteners, handmade quilts, flowers, signed cook books..the list goes on and on.

The Angels not only organised this but were part of the staff for the morning. They went around filling up champagne glasses, judging the best hat and heels and having a chat to all of us that wanted to know more.

Hillary and her Mum.

Hillary's Mother had come over from New Zealand for (amongst other things) this breakfast. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house when Hillary and her Mother were at the front of the room with microphone in hand. Hillary's Mum was thanking everyone for coming, Hillary kept pushing the microphone closer to her mouth...such a moment that all of us daughters share with our technologically challenged mothers!

I met some wonderful women here too. Bianca and her mother Narelle were such fun and Narelle (in conjunction with the gorgeous muso Dani) provided some much needed light entertainment. Narelle lead the singing of Hey Big Spender as Dani took off his shirt....Go Dani, go Narelle.

You can see/hear more of Dani and his music at www.myspace.com/danicmusic
That is Narelle singing her heart out to Dani (finger in the air). Why don't you spend a little time with me...

Where's my hug?
This is where I met Hillary. I had heard about this story but not yet met this women who has already entered my life and touched my heart. She is a gentle soul, I do not pretend to know her, but she appears to have a quiet resolve about her. What I do know is that she must be a very special person indeed. To have so many people around her at this time is special indeed!

The restaurant

A huddle with Hillary and her Angels. It seemed too intimate to intrude, but I think this shot captures the mood!

Hold out your hand and open your heart.....Thank you to Hillary and the Hills Angels for all that you do and all that you show. Know that you are touching many peoples lives

The Journey Continues

2009-10-09T07:54:00.011+11:00

My trip to Europe has changed me forever and there is a certain sadness knowing that it is going to be many years before I can return. However, this trip has opened my eyes, it has taught me to appreciate what is in front of you. We all too often take our surrounds for granted.

I live in a beautiful part of the world and there is still so much to discover right on my door step. Live today, be present. Sometimes we are always looking ahead and other times behind us. To what has happened let us live and learn, for what is to come lets wait, for now let us enjoy. Know that this moment may pass us by if we live for tomorrow or yesterday..

Back at home there is a beautiful church that I have admired and wanted to look at but have never made the time to do so. Well I have made the time and was impressed by it's simple beauty. It has a calming influence, the grounds (even the graveyard) are beautiful. Big old trees with seats ringing the trunks, the church itself is a lovely sandstone structure, gorgeous gardens that line the fence and a nurturing, calming feel. I come here to have time out sometimes and at other times to calm down! It is soothing and comforting and it is right here on my doorstep..

The gorgeous magnolias in bloom around the gardens

I loved the sandstone walls covered in vines

Chapter 10 - Losing Myself in Religion - Vatican City

2009-09-22T08:52:00.028+10:00

We went to Vatican City on the Holy day (Sunday). There were people everywhere at Piazza San Pietro (St Peters square). It swarms with tourists & Polizi. It is awe inspiring....again with the sculptures! Italy just gets it so right. The beauty of this incredibly impressive square and building is mind blowing. I love the beautiful fountains, it was a very hot day when we visited and the fountains caught the sunlight majestically. It was a strange sight, however, to see about 4 massive plasma screens set up in the square (there is one just behind the fountain).

A huge area was cordoned off and had seating set up, we were sure Papa was coming to us. Around midday the screens flickered and we heard the Pope talking. It went silent and everyone stopped. Someone next to me asked very quietly 'what's going on? Is the Pope coming.' I was so excited, can you imagine visiting Vatican City and seeing the Pope deliver mass? Alas it was too good to be true, it was a televised link of the Pope delivering mass somewhere else.

I am anxious to go inside St Peter's Basilica, Ad sits this one out. The line is long, but moves through quite quickly before you know it you are passing the Swiss guards and entering the very grand St Peters Basilica.

The light that filters into the church brings a truly spiritual feel to it. It was the first thing that struck me as I entered. I later read that Michelangelo had altered the original design of the church because it did not allow enough natural light in. Michelangelo knows light!

This is the second largest Basilica in the world and took more than 150 years to build. Can you imagine designing on such a grand scale? Being humble enough to know that you will never see the end result of your work? That the structure itself is a labour of love, a gift to future generations and must take time, commitment, faith, love and dedication? You want to ensure it is so perfect, you accept that it will not be completed in your lifetime. The artists/designers/builders/visionaries were Bramante, Raphael, Antonio da Sangallo, Giacomo della Porta, Carlo Maderno and Michelangelo. It is a very different world we live in.......

The detail in this Basilica is amazing. You quite literally do not know where to look. The sculptures, paintings, alters, mosaics. There is mass being held, confession, prayers....... it is an amazing moment in my life. There is an alter with some pews set up in many area's of this church, many are cordoned off and are for the 'real' Catholics I guess? there is one for the tourists however. I sit at one of the pews, make the sign of the cross over my body and pray. I thank the Lord for allowing me to see this in my life time, I thank the Lord for the many blessings in my life. I sit and look and reflect. This is amazing.....

After wandering through the Basilica I head to Michelangelo's Dome. I really wanted to do this and had read about the Dome. The line is long and moves really slowly..It is 544 steps to the top or you can pay 10 euro for the lift, I opt for the stairs...whew, that's alot of stairs! The climb is worth it (see Pics below). The view of the Piazza amazing, the up close of the mosaics and the view down to St Peters Basilica worth the burning sensation in my thighs!

I return to Ad after a good 2-3 hours at St Peter's and am keen to head to the Sistine Chapel. We walk 1.5kms to the entry point only to find it is not open on a Sunday! Back we go.....Due to our change of plans we head to the Spanish steps and they are......steps! The passing parade is interesting, and the people watching is first rate.

We then go to the Fontana di Trevi. Ohhh it is beautiful, Italy really does great fountains. The aqueduct that feeds the Trevi is one of the earliest ones built in the city, they really built things to last. A coin is thrown in, in the hope I will one day return....

It is Monday, the last day of this magical mystery tour...we will be saying our goodbyes to Italia today, but before that I have to see the Sistine Chapel. We don't have a great deal of time, but I am sure we have enough to see the Vatican Museums where the Chapel is housed...Back to Vatican City, Ad & I pick a meeting point and agree on a time to meet. Ad will be reading in the shade so no pressure if the time is blown out a little but we must be no later than 3 hours as we have a plane to catch......
As I head off on the walk to the entry point, I am humming to myself...until that is I round the first corner and am faced with a massive queue. I have walked about 500 meters, so the queue is about 1km long. I am devastated! I stand in the queue for about 15 minutes, it moves at a snails pace. There are some tour guides asking for people to 'jump the queue and come with us'. I approach them and ask when, how long and how much. The next tour is about to go and takes around 3 hours. I have to get money and the next tour is not until another 30-45 minutes. I just stand there in disbelief. I am not going to see the Sistine Chapel.

I admit defeat and start walking back to our meeting point. There are tears in my eyes and it is all I can do not to start sobbing out loud! How can you go all the way to Italy and not see the Sistine Chapel, I am bitterly disappointed. I meet Ad and can hardly talk, he can see my disappointment, but the more we talk about it, the more likely I am to burst into tears. Lets just go.....and so we do, to Rome Airport. A quick stopover in Hong Kong and then back home to our girls.

Italy you have opened my eyes, ears, heart and soul. I have loved every moment of you and you will remain near and dear to me forever. My dearest Italy you have scratched the surface on what I hope to be a life of travels, and unearthed a creativity that was lurking under the surface, you have also left no doubt in my mind that I am married to the most wonderful person on this earth. My wonderful Husband made my dream a reality. In the midst of mortgage's, careers and kids he knew how important this was to me and made it happen...My love, my life.

Chapter 9 - Rome, The Eternal City

2009-09-13T17:25:00.014+10:00

Roma is grand indeed. Everything here was built to impress and that is exactly what they do! The heart of Italy, the Roman Empire, it all begins here in Roma.

There is so much to be impressed by, the first monument that we come across is the Vittoriano.
My eyes were like saucers and WOW escapes from my lips. What is this Ad? Because he has been once I am sure he must know all of the monuments, but as I am soon to discover you would need to spend alot of time here to know (and see) them all.

As it turns out this is a baby of a monument here in Rome. It was built in 1901 and houses the tomb of the unknown soldier. It is so grand, and is funny to read that the Italians refer to this monument as the wedding cake or type writer. I love it.

We head down the road past many Roman ruins to the Colosseum. As we are walking towards it, it just suddenly pops up into your line of vision. I am jumping again, Ad look the Colosseum! He smiles. I just want to run and touch it, it is a truly amazing sight. Amidst the daily traffic and daily life is this amazing structure that has stood for so many years.

Before we head to the Colosseum we decide to stop for lunch. Ad needs a Chinese fix. So here we are in Rome, a stones throw from the Colosseum in a Chinese restaurant.....

'While the Colosseum stands, Rome shall stand,

but when the Colosseum falls, Rome shall fall

and when Rome falls the world will end' - Bede

The Colosseum has an eerie and magnificent aura to it. If ever there was a monument to make you stop and think that yes life goes on, this has to be up there!

The past will always haunt her, the past has made her (as life often goes!). We cannot change what has happened but we can learn. We can embrace the good bits, grit our teeth and learn from the bad bits and move forward knowing that this life makes us who we are. We are stronger, we are more knowledgeable and we can weather the storm. There is no greater sense of this than in Rome!

The cross at the Colosseum symbolises the many lives lost but also hope, retribution, forgiveness, sorrow and shame. It symbolises life.

The ruins around the Palatine, Capitoline Hill and the Roman Forum are just beautiful. The proportions of these structures add to the wow factor.

Agrippa's Pantheon. This structure is the best preserved building and has been standing for nearly 2000 years! This is the largest masonry vault ever built and was dedicated to the classical Gods.......I love Italy

Inside the Pantheon the dome has a 9mtr opening to allow light in and the marble floor has 22 small holes to allow any rain that enters to drain away. It has such an ethereal feel to it. The beautiful light streaming into the structure, it lights up the inside perfectly. You don't get better lighting than this!

We visited the Pantheon on a Sunday and what I love so much about these churches is that they are real 'working' churches. We just made it before they were going to close if off for Mass. On a Sunday in Rome all churches have Mass no matter how old or how many tourists want to have a look at it!
I didn't realise how much I loved sculpture until my trip to Italia. These beautiful structures line the bridges on our walk to Vatican City. Those bridges are like the one below that links you to Castel Sant'Angelo (the structure on the left). I didn't get a chance to see the Castel but will next time.....

Chapter 8 - My Amalfi Coast

2009-08-31T19:49:00.000+10:00

Positano Beach

We travel from Florence to the Amalfi Coast and it is quite a trip! At Naples we get on a Regionale train to Sorrento. Naples is the first 'taste' of perhaps the working class Italy that we have not yet seen. Naples feels a little threatening, I pull my backpack in close to me and have a firm grip on my luggage. Having said that it is not unlike central railway station in Sydney, your eyes are wide open and you are on alert.
View from our Hotel

The 'suburban' train to Sorrento snarls through blocks of graffitied apartments towering along the train line. There is little of the beautiful buildings I have now become accustomed to in Italy and more of the Western suburbs stock standard housing monsters of Sydney (that I am familiar with!). I discover I have become an Italian snob! How could Italy condone to having these 'types' of buildings anywhere on her shores! Well I guess they call that progress, right?
Coastal roads around the Amalfi Coast

We finally reach Sorrento and get the STA bus (the ONLY bus to catch in the Amalfi) to the scenic Positano. I had an idea of what Positano was all about, but I have to say unless you have visited, unless you have physically been to this place you have no idea. It is breathtaking!! Now I know I have said that of many of the places I have visited but Positano, for me, is the sparkling blue sapphire jewel in Italy's dazzling crown.

The coastal road from Sorrento to the coast hugs the coastline tightly (a little too tightly for my liking). The roads really are not built for 2 lanes let alone parking and buses, but in true Italian style these roads accommodate all of the above. There are tunnels that have been bored through the mountainous cliff sides that are only one lane wide. The STA buses beep there horns as they approach and as they travel through to warn off any motorists that are coming in the opposite direction. You hold your breath the whole way, but it works!

We arrive at our hotel and the view is amazing, straight across the Mediterranean and over looking Positano beach. We immediately get in our swimmers and head to the pebble stoned beach. Even the walk down to the beach is surreal. Cobblestoned lane ways that twist down to the shore line, shoe shops selling beautiful sandals, some tourist shops, jewellery and clothing shops. To get to the spiaggia you have to pass the most divine church. Yes I go in and yes I pray, it's the Catholic way you know.....

Positano is our breathing space. Here we retreat from the monuments and just take in the immediate sights before us. We don't go to Capri or Pompeii. As much as I would like to we need a little down time and with Roma next on the list we just have to stop, reflect and gather ourselves before we go on to the next sensory overload.
The only 'travelling' we do on the Amalfi is to Amalfi itself. So glad we did, what can I say? Divine, breathtaking - Italy!

Amalfi is alive with shops, tourists and locals. The narrow streets twist through a variety of eye catching shops. School children spill out of the local school through the streets of Amalfi en masse for lunch. In the true Italian way, lunch time is king and time for family...off they go Amalfi Beach

For us lunch is a BBQ chook, roast potatoes and bread rolls. I have loved the Italian cuisine but, as in life, it is often the simple things that we miss! A BBQ chook, potatoes and bread rolls on the beach, what more could you want.

Our lunch is devoured whilst we are perched on large rocks on the break wall in the Mediterranean. Our view is the Amalfi beach, there is no better trattoria, perfecto!
The walk to Atrani

After lunch We walk to Atrani - another beautiful jewel studded in this magnificent coast line. We swim off the rocks into the crystal clear, azure blue Mediterranean sea. We dry off, soak up the view then head back to Amalfi for our bus ride back to Positano...just another day in the life...

American Literary legend John Steinbeck wrote

'Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn't quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real when you have gone'

Positano has bitten to the bone for me. I trawl through the many images I have taken and ache to go back. The images are postcard perfect like Positano itself.

Chapter 7 - Finding Artistic Appreciation in Florence

2009-07-18T06:47:00.000+10:00

We caught the train from Verona to Florence, I was excited to be visiting the home of Michaelangelo and his infamous David. Florence promised to be full of art and culture I couldn't wait..

and I have to say my first impression of Florence was ambivalent. There was a lot of construction that was happening through out the city that took away some of it's charm, however, this is Italy and I have loved Italy so far and wanted to continue the love affair. Suffice to say that the love affair continues.........

We navigate our way through the lane ways and piazza's to find the very impressive Duomo. The beautiful pink, white and green marble of Duomo, the detail and once again the religion. I love being a Catholic in Italy! Inside Duomo I light a candle, count my blessings and whisper a prayer for my family.

Fresco in Duomo

Our first night in Florence was spent drinking way too much and staying out way too late. It was at a wine bar with our Aussie friend (who speaks fluent Italian) also travelling through Italy that we met some characters. A passionate Florentine who insisted on telling me about the history of Florence. His stories were passionate and full of gesture (I couldn't get away!). He also loved Midnight Oil (an Australian band), that we thought was very amusing. An Italian speaking Japanese chef. He had spent the last 3 years in Italy to learn about the cuisine with a plan to open an Italian restaurant in Japan. Finally we met another Aussie from Sydney who had spent a friends 50th (from memory?) celebrating in Tuscany.

We asked our Japanese chef to recommend a restaurant and off we went (minus the Florentine) on a very messy night. What can often be a good idea at the time (another glass for me please) is often not the case in the harsh light of day!With a very sore head and very dry mouth we gingerly make our way to the Uffizi. The art work is amazing & Madonna and child were everywhere. I longed for my little girls and missed them so much with every image of Madonna and child. The paintings of Christ, John the Baptist, Mary and the Saints it all brings religion alive.

The Uffizi is HUGE and nearly killed me. After two hours or so I had to opt out...you need stamina and a clear head for the Uffizi. I have to return to pay her the respect she deserves.

I loved the sculptures around the Uffizi. I particularly loved the one above. It evokes the whole lust, love, betrayal and passion beautifully. At some time I am sure we have all experienced this and this sculpture (to me anyway) captures it all!

Neptune..My goodness what a fine example of man he was! He stands proud and tall and commands your attention. He got it!

Lago Di Garda

2009-07-10T09:13:00.000+10:00

Chapter 6 - The devastatingly beautiful Lago Di Garda

It was a sleep in that led us to Lake Garda, and what a find that was. After a late and slow start to the day we decide to head to Lago Di Garda. I had read about Lake Garda in the lonely planet guide and the hotel we were staying at in Verona had plenty of glossy brochures on Lago Di Garda. Ad was keen to hire bikes (read previous post....I don't think so!!). So Garda, here we come.

We took a regional train to Peshiera Del Garda, and we were instantly taken by this place. The lake appears oceanic in size and is an immense 370 sq km, water beyond the horizon. We walked around the lake for a good couple of hours, just taking in the beautiful view and towns. We had lunch at a beer garden type cafe and chatted to the Scottish owner. She tells us that she went travelling around Europe 20 years ago and ended up marrying an Italian man and has called Lago Di Garda home for many years. In summer they have a staff of 20 between 8am - 2am, today however it is just the two of them.

Apparently the Pope's wine of choice is from here! I asked for a glass of 'whatever he drinks', but that is only sold by the bottle and not quite in my price range. Ahh to be a Catholic Pope..The owner suggests another local wine for me to try. Bellisimo.

We order hot dogs and get a sausage on a plate. Very nice sausage, but no bun! Ad orders again but this time with a bun. The owner insists that we visit Sirmione, so after our drinks and snack we head to the main road to find a bus to Sirmione. I use my Italian language skills on the bus driver, but he speaks back in Italian and I have no idea what he has said. The blank look on my face is enough si, si..he gives me my change and ushers us on the bus.

OHHHH my lord, Sirmione is unbelievable. A square cut castle perched on an amazing stretch of the lake. Words do not describe..

Lago Di Garda will always hold a special place in my heart. I don't want leave. The sun is starting to set so we head back for a bus to Verona.

As we were enjoying our drinks in the beer garden we watched in amusement these kids playing on the wharf and jumping in the clear water of Lake Garda. I longed for my girls to be here. Language is no barrier when there is fun to be had.. I had to get this shot of these kids, it encapsulates summer fun (even though it is autumn). A very balmy 25 degrees for an October day.....

The Floating Labyrinth of Venice

2009-06-27T02:20:00.000+10:00

Chapter 5 - Venezia, Italia

Venice is a maze! We put our map away confident in the fact that all roads lead to San Marco. Yes they do but it will take some time to find. You seem to burst out from the labyrinth of cobble stoned lane ways to the beautiful grand canal. The sensory overload is too much!

When I saw the above image in front of me I had to capture it. For me this picture embodies Venice. I had but a second to take this before the gondoliers started trying to drum up business. The lamp post, water, gondolas and gondoliers is pure Venice for me.

Basilica Di San Marco instills faith and religion in you just by looking at it. The gold mosaics are blinding, the art, the religion, the history. It is here, it is everywhere, it is overwhelming. I pray (how can you not?).

I could not get enough of Venice, it is a unique and amazing place. As we walked around St Mark's square and the music from a nearby band were playing, I grabbed Ad and started dancing. That is what this country does to you...It makes you dance (alot of that dancing was on the inside) and as cliche as it is, it really does make your heart sing. Even now when I look at images or hear stories from Italy, my heart skips a beat and I am back...why on earth did it take me so long to get here?

Wherefore art thou Verona?

2009-06-20T08:05:00.000+10:00

Chapter 4 - Verona, Italia

View of the main entrance to Verona from the Arena.

"There is no wall without Verona walls

but purgatory, torture, hell itself

Hence banished is banish'd from the world

and worlds exile is death" - Shakespeare

A Juliet moment in the Arena

We enter the history steeped country of Italy, I can hardly contain my excitement. A country I have longed to see, Verona does not disappoint. Home to Romeo and Juliet, how can you not fall in love with this city.

I could not wait to hit the streets of Verona when we arrived. As you enter the gates of Verona you are literally taken to another world. The beautiful pink marble of the Arena takes centre stage as you pass a number of trattoria's to explore the cobble stoned streets and beyond.

The churches, the bridges, the architecture it is all so breathtaking. I loved the terracotta skyline of Verona, beauty even in rooftops!

Another recommendation from my father-in-law was the grand Giusti gardens. As you enter through the high stone walls it is like walking into the secret garden. In the heart of a busy town lies this lush oasis. We only shared this with a few other couples and I am sure this must be one of Verona's best kept secrets!

The Veronise are a smart crowd. I loved sitting at one of the small trattoria's sipping a glass of Prosecco and watching the passing parade. It would seem that everyone here is beautifully groomed (you can spot the tourists and the locals for this reason). bicycles are still a main choice of transport here, and the city really lends itself to it. I do become slightly panicked at Adam's suggestion of hiring some bikes to tour the city. This is Italy and I have not yet worked out the pedestrian vs bikes vs vespas vs cars! I think foot is the safest choice for us (OK me) for now!

Italia my heart is forever at your service...

The Alpine Wonderland of Innsbruck

2009-06-14T19:27:00.000+10:00

Chapter 3 - Innsbruck

Innsbruck is postcard perfect!

The snowcapped mountains, the crystal clear, turquoise blue river Inn that snakes through the city, the pretty pastel houses that line the river and of course the golden roof in the town centre. Everywhere you look is breathtakingly beautiful

We only had a few days here but I loved it. We went to a Tirrolean show that was alot of fun (another must do from my Father-in-law). We walked through the town, took the lift 2334 meters up the Hafelekarspitze mountain, and really just took in the view and enjoyed a lunch time wine or two. Simply stunning!

The Hills are Alive in Salzburg

2009-06-12T13:57:00.001+10:00

Chapter 2 - Salzburg

It was a very cold Salzburg that we rolled into, around 5 degrees. But wow what a city. The beautiful shops (the best shoe shop I have ever been in and there have been a few) the markets, the fortress, Hellbrun Palace, Mirabell gardens it is all just so much. The changing colours of Autumn add to the beauty and majesty of this city.

The gorgeous women with scarves of all colours (yes I have to have one!), the boots (those too) and jackets ahhh just so beautiful. The dress code here seems to be smart, no casual about it. My kind of city!

I was not prepared to fall in love with Austria but I am completely taken by this beautiful country and I have not yet been to my dream country of Italy.

A Vienesse Waltz in Vienna

2009-06-11T13:56:00.000+10:00

Vienna Street Scapes

The Danube River

Chapter 1

Austria - Vienna

My first European trip was in October 2008. We land in the beautiful country of Austria, with Vienna being our first port of call. It took my breath away!

My Father-in-law had insisted that we 'take an extra week' and go to Austria. We were originally just going to Italy. Austria was not a country that came to mind as a must to see, but after seeing it, she truly is a must. This is the first chapter in the storybook land of Austria.

The Danube River was our first stop (ah... didn't quite read the map right). We thought we were heading to old, historic Vienna....No we were actually heading to the UNO city in Vienna. Glad we did the 5km or so by-pass to the Danube though. It's all an adventure!

The street scapes are amazing. I couldn't take my eyes off the skyline. Every building is decorated and topped with amazing sculptures. The detail, the history and the age of these buildings is hard to comprehend.

Schonbrunn Palace is an imposing, grandoise structure. The story of strong, influential women in this palace is amazing to hear for the 1700's. Maria Theresa with her 16 children became known as Europe's mother-in-law. The marriages of her children were carefully orchestrated to ensure her power base grew. She only allowed one of her children to marry for love.

A Vienesse Waltz is a good discription as we went around and around and around this city time and time again. I had the best coffee I have ever had at Schonbrunn Palace, the bratwurst hotdogs are to die for and the apple strudel are plentiful. Thank heaven for the walking.