Summer holiday

Some random photos from what turned out to be our last family Christmas in Coffs Harbour.  Dad and Tracey having made the decision to move further north to Queensland in 2021.  

2020 Huckers Tournament

 

It was a marathon of a tournament this year.  Competing for the trophy were Grandad Bryan, Michael, Henry and myself.

Game 1 was an easy straight win for Grandad.

Game 2 saw me take out the win.

Game 3 had Michael and Henry team up to ensure either one of them won, with Michaael sealing the win.

Game 4 turned into an epic battle.  Henry was poised to win, which would have sent the match into a final fifth round.  However, the game turned cut throat and it could have been anyone of us victorious (except Grandad who was mercilessly picked on).  In the end it was Michael who managed to roll a ridiculous succession of sixes and take out the 2020 Huckers Trophy.

The traditional last years champ passing on the trophy to the new victor.

Coffs Christmas

 

Road trip.

No one to play with, Dad's two dogs don't want anything to do with her. 

Then along came Ralph and Minnie had the best holiday ever.  

It might be a summer Christmas but Nanna Trace knows how to make it snow.

Christmas morning before the carnage.

Seven adults, five kids, three dogs.

All the kids were happy Santa had been.

Well, all the kids but one.

Nanna Trace rocking her newest Camilla.

Looks like even Grandad Bryan had been a good boy this year.

Elfie Selfie.

Three out of five in one photo isn't too bad.

 

Managed to get this one with me in it... with some help.

Didn't manage to get a snap of the Christmas smorgasbord, but let's be honest, we're all here for the desserts anyway. 

It had been a big day for some.

First born gets first job

 

A rite of passage for Mister - financial independence and a tax file number.  Getting that first job can be stressful.  With no experience to put on a resume, how do employers differentiate between each unskilled young teenager?  

Mister had originally interviewed with McDonalds and was unsuccessful.  That first knock back didn't sway him and he kept applying for jobs.  KFC invited him to an interview and 10 minutes later he walked out with a uniform and loads of paperwork.

He's getting a least one five-hour shift a week and during the school holidays he picks up a few extras.  He mainly works on the front counter or drive thru, and they've put him on a list of people to train and work in the kitchen.  He's gaining those important life and work skills...and hopefully a nice looking bank balance as well.

Anniversary - 25 years

A weekend away, sans enfants, to celebrate 25 years of surviving each other.  A glorious weekend at the Chateau Elan and Vintage Golf Club in the Hunter Valley.

I took a photo of our room name and number but omitted to take any photos of our room.  Let's just say it had the most comfiest of beds and had a beautiful spa. Our room opening up to a view of the golf course, complete with kangaroos (some with joeys in their pouches) hopping by to say hello. 

Our first night out was at Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant.  We had a table outside on the deck overlooking the vineyard.  It was a muggy night and there was a glorious storm on the horizon to entertain us.  Fantasic food, a nice Aperol Spritz cocktail, a wonderful start to the ease into the weekend.

The next morning we enjoyed a big breakfast, followed by a laze at the spa and pool.   Setting us up nicely for a day of golf (Michael playing, me scorecarding).

Then we were off.  Golf carts required and not surprised really, there is quite a distance between some of the holes.  Such a beautiful golf course, designed by the great Greg Norman, it weaves through the vineyards and resort estates.   Kangaroos lounging in the shade off the fairways, and Michael was pleased with his round.  Could very easily return here.

As we were returning home, we stopped in at Sabor Dessert Bar and picked up a very sweet selection of treats for the kids.

We seriously need to get away more often, even if it involves golf.

Birthday boy - eleven

A birthday breakfast at his favourite cafe, then an afternoon session at his favourite indoor climbing park.  Best birthday ever for our little man.