Our Sydney jaunt

We took advantage of the Melbourne Cup long weekend to head on a short break to Sydney.  Alex needed to front up in person to renew his French passport and I thought it was time to show the boys a city rather than country, beach – all the great outdoor things.

Safety first

What good and attentive little passengers they are on the plane.  Unlike the jaded adults they get on, (having pre negotiated who gets the window seat) settle into their seats and adjust their seatbelts for optimum safety fit.  Then on with the eye phones and a selection of a music channel, or ideally we’re in a plane with seat back screens so straight to the good stuff.  Then they pick up their safety cards and spend considerable time being completely absorbed in the content.  Only looking up to check out the safety demonstration.

 

Exploring the Rocks

Sydney was a hit.  We stayed in the Rocks so wandered around the area and Circular Quay.  They loved the Opera House, the ferries coming and

 

An evening stroll along Circular Quay to the Opera House

Alex’s favourite expression has to be “what’s your problem?” or “what’s the prob?”  Delivered with plenty of attitude.  The other one we hear a lot is “me also”.  Luke says “I want some dessert” and Alex “me also”.

 

On the ferry heading for Watson's Bay

They also crack us up when they do something “for free”.  As in house help: “I’ll set the table for free” or gifts: “I’ll give you this lolly from my trick or treat loot for free”.  Perhaps they have gone too far with their rationale around pocket money and earning their keep.

Looking back at the wake or the city of Sydney

There has been a strange affliction in our house for a very long time.  “My stomach is hot” so they can’t sleep, eat or just get to be cranky.  Alex is especially sensitive at night, I think it’s linked to not wanting to go to bed.  Our best solution is an ice pack.

Alex can be so sweet that it’s impossible to not say yes to him.  He looks up at me and says “a little hug” with the sweetest voice and his gorgeous brown eyes.  What can I do but drop everything and scoop him up.

Luke on the other hand uses his good looks and charm to get what he wants.  He also dabbles in whining and repetition which we are trying to stamp out.