The Gold Coast

What better way to finish up our time in Australia, than with a few days soaking up the rays on the Gold Coast? We headed down on Thursday night, and had dinner and board games with Marc, Meegs, and Owen. Friday morning, Suz, Al, and baby Callum joined our clan for a swim in the heated pool at the resort.

Jason and Michelle joined us mid-morning, and after some lunch we headed to Q1, to take advantage of the beautiful clear day, and check out the views. Now call me biased, but I reckon that the view up and down the coastline is one of the greatest in the world.

Julian and Shelley came down Friday night, and after some pasta, beer, and board games, we all hit the sack.

Saturday was designated “Durham Day”, so the Durhams came round early for a coffee and a swim. We were blown away by how much the girls had grown in our absence! They did a good job wearing us out in the pool, playing tigi.

After lunch (and another coffee!), we headed down to the Durham’s local beach – Palm beach – to catch some waves. That water was chilly! But it was awesome to be back in the surf. The day just got better when we got back to the Durham house – David and I headed down to the back canal to do a spot of fishing. How’s the serenity?

We didn’t catch anything (wrong type of bait), but we didn’t care. It was so relaxing; to be able to come home, walk into the back yard, sit in the sand, and chuck a line into the water – well, it’s definitely a lifestyle I could get used to. One thing that Kristy and I have always admired about the Durhams, is that they have their priorities sorted so well. To top the day off, Nelly cooked a delicious lamb roast for us, complete with self-saucing lemon pudding and home made ice-cream for dessert.

Sunday, our final day, was another catch up day, and I don’t think Mum and Dad’s unit has ever been host to so many people – 18, at one point! A big thanks to everyone that came down for a visit, including the Rattey/Morgans, the Mac Namaras, the Harveys, the Lewises, and of course the Thomases! Oh, and did I mention that Uncle Martyn also came for a visit, with his girl – Jenny – all the way from Jamaica?!

Now why can’t I have that skin tone?

Unfortunately, now that we’re back in Brisbane, we’re facing the harsh reality that our holiday is almost over. We’ve had such a great time in Australia catching up with as many family and friends as possible, and of course we will miss everyone terribly when we go back to New York. But I guess life goes on, and I’m sure it won’t be long until it’s time for another visit. And, like the song says – we still call Australia home – so eventually, we’ll be back here permanently. Eventually…