#Day 24

Saturday 24th March
4am alarm goes, hit snooze. 4.05, snooze. 4.10, snooze, 4.15
oh well guess we better get up! We all tumbled out of bed, got dressed and were
ready for our shuttle bus at 4.45am. SO COLD! around 4 degress. We headed for Hobart airport,
checked in grabbed a quick coffee to wake up and were on our morning plane by
6am. Sophie was awake by then, and just sat nicely on my lap, smiling at the
lady next to us or looking out of the window. We got into Melbourne around 7am,
with us all grabbing some breakfast then back on the plane 8.30am(their time).
Sophie slept from take-off for an hour, then sat nicely for the rest of the
flight. We all had the luxury of screens to watch something, which made the
flight go faster. We arrived in Perth around 9.30am (our time, which it felt weird
being back on) our bus picked us all up with luggage, and dropped us off home
by 10.45am. It is so great being home! We truly have been blessed to enjoy 3
weeks of holidays with family and see part of God’s creation, but I do so love
my own bed.

#Day 23

Friday 23rd march
Today is our last morning in Tasmania. We all packed our
suitcases, packed the cars before lazily making our way out of Ellendale. We
did one stop at New Norfolk for some thermos to make ourselves warm against the
brisk morning air, roughly around 8 degrees! We then drove up into Hobart,
since we couldn’t get our cabin keys till 2pm we decided to head into Hobart
town for a spot of shopping and lunch, also A.Carol + Kate had come down to
spend the last night with us (aren’t they nice) so we met up with them. We all
enjoyed the afternoon together. After which we all headed to our cabins next to
the airport, unpacked the cars, then the boys went and dropped off the rental
cars, while us ladies stayed in the warm cabins and chatted. With a subway run
(literally) for dinner we all then headed to bed on time eagerly anticipating our
flight home tomorrow morning.

#Day 22

Thursday 22nd March
After a wonderfully relaxing morning, sleeping in sitting by
the log fire, or walking through the homes extensive gardens to see the
chickens, goats, cows and some even spotted a platypus. We then packed a picnic
lunch before heading out to Russel Falls. After enjoying our lunch at the park,
we did the rainforest walk before coming across the falls in all their glory.
What a spectacular part of creation, and just glorious to photograph. After
Russel Falls we heading out for a little drive, till we did another walk and
saw Junee Caves. Pretty ureal, seeing all that our land has to offer us. On the
way home we stopped in Maydena for the world’s best scones with fresh raspberry
jam and cream, and bought some fresh raspberries. That night we enjoyed more
relaxing, the littlies loving the backyard, and visiting the animals, the rest
of us made ourselves comfortable in front of the fire with books and games.

#Day 21

Wednesday 21st March
We left Strahan early, today the weather was dismal,
completely different from the sunny weather we had enjoyed yesterday for our
boat cruise (Strahan enjoys rain 300 days
of the year) We travelled straight down to Queenstown where it was still
raining, we did some last minute shopping, toilet breaks before heading out
again. We did the 99 pass, where we stopped at the top lookout to view the
pass, and see the amazing waterfall running down the mountain scape. We did a
quick detour (recommended by some people at the lookout) to Iron blow lookout,
a canter leaver lookout to the view the brightest blue dam below us. We then
took off on more windy slippery roads, through the Tassie rainforest. We
stopped once for lunch and then kept going before making it by 3 to our last
stop, Ellendale, at our home stay Hamlet Downs. What a beautiful escape, with 3
connecting homes, set in the valley surrounded by orchards and roses it was
truly lovely. We all enjoyed our afternoon, some rested, the girls raced around
the house after each-other, we updated blogs and just enjoyed having our feet
up.

#Day 20

Tuesday 20th March
Today we woke up and had to be in town at the wharf in time
for we were doing the Gordon River Boat Cruise from 9am-3pm. We headed out
towards Hell’s Gate, an area of churning water heading out to sea, before
turning around and went to Sarah Island, where we were able to hop out for an
hour, of walking around and seeing the old building. (Sarah Island was a convict Island, where many contradicting versions of
events has happened, from gruesome tales to happy endings) From there we
headed into the Gordon River, all the while enjoying our delicious buffet lunch
prepared during our voyage by on board chefs. We could stand on the deck and
watch the pristine landscape folding around us, truly astounding. It truly was
a once in the lifetime experience, and nice that we could all enjoy it
together. We then had an easy night of doing whatever we wanted to do.

#Day 19

Monday 19th March
Our time at Corinna was at an end, we hopped on the barge to
cross the Pieman river , an adventure in itself, before we headed out to
Zeehan. We had some nice morning tea, before heading out to the Museum. What an interesting building with lots to read
on the history of mining from many of the towns surrounding Zeehan, (Zeehan itself was a mining town for
silver-lead, and was once Tassie’s biggest towns, and made as much money as
Kalgoorlie) inside there was even a simulated mine we could go into, and
all old trains, boats, sheds, and tools set up to walk through and see. There
was a room dedicated to the history of Freemasons, and then an old fashioned (gaiety) theatre, fitted with a big
screen and all old-fashioned chairs, surrounded by smaller rooms, show casing
various fashions for early years. From there we did a quick detour to see the
spray tunnel, dumped our Corinna rubbish and made our way to Strahan. Making
our way there nice and early so we could enjoy the afternoon before having
lovely pizza’s on the foreshore.

#Day 18

Sunday 18th March
With a scrumptious Sunday breakfast together, we read a
sermon on Romans 8: 1-17.
We then had a quiet rest of the morning, with some us
reading and the boys building a fire, and trying but not succeeding to cook
scones over it. We then had lunch and then Dad, Alex, Lee, Chris + I did some
kayaking up the Pieman river. What a wonderful way to enjoy God’s creation,
then being part of it, soaking in the sunshine and taking in the beautiful
views. We paddle a while, before getting to a fork in the river, where we
decided to take the fun direction, the one with trees and obstacles sticking up from the water, it
made us feel very adventurous going around and under the trees, after paddling
upstream for 50 mins we decided we had gone far enough. We then beached
ourselves against a high wall of mud, and decided we could climb it. Well it
was all fun until you stepped into the ooey, gooey mud, and tried to climb
using rotten tree branches, but we made it up, and what a view, dense
rainforest with not a soul in sight. Amazing. With much (or rather lack of it)
skill we managed to get back into our kayaks’ before making our way down
stream, a much easier route this time, and upon making it back we all agreed
that it had been a great 2 hours.
The rest of the night was spent relaxing and enjoying our
holiday from our holiday.

#Day 17

Saturday 17th March
We left Stanley and drove down to Smithton, where Mum +
girls + Chris did some groceries, and Dad, Alex, Des + Alicia and myself went
down to the ‘Markets’, which were more old brick-a-brat then markets, but we
all hit the jackpot when we came across the book section. After spending a
while there, and getting a few good finds between us all, we met up with the
rest to pack the cars and head of to our next stop, which we were not told what
it was. We arrived at our destination, in the Tarkine Area, The Dismal Swamp!
Where the brave went down the dismal swamp slide, and the ‘weak’ walked down to
the bottom, to watch their faces upon getting to the end. They had 2 goes, and
both times they look nervous/exhilarated/and like they had had the time of
their life. It only took around 10-15 secs to go down, speeds reached around
30ks and was 90 m high at the start. Definlty a good time. We then had a nice
lunch at their café before starting our last leg of travel, a windy bumpy track
on our way to Corinna. We started at 3pm, and boy where the roads bumpy, I was
just saying to Chris, that it wouldn’t be very funny if we got a spare seeing
as we only had one spare between the 2 camry’s when Des’s car got one. And it
started to rain, so the boys had fun changing tyres while we some nibblies
while waiting. We then took off again, more windy roads and around 6.30pm the
sign we had all been waiting for ‘Corinna 3 ks’ YAY. We pulled up into the
cutest and smallest of towns, got our keys to our eco friendly villa’s and made
ourselves home (Corinna is an historic
mining town, set on the Pieman River, it is an ecofriendly town, with backup
generators, solar power and fresh rainwater, all waste is removed from the
site) . We all had our own units
with gas fire heaters, fresh rain water, and totally in the wild with wallabies
under our verandah and devils screaming at night. It was really nice place to
be, completely cut of from the rest of the world, with no reception for miles,
and surrounded by nature. Sophie + I had an early night, while Dad, Chris +
Alex, walked to the pub for a local beer.

#Day 16

Friday 16th March
We left Wynyard around 10 drove to the Boat Harbour for some
coffee and see the beautiful serenic view. A bit of excitement for yours truly,
the toilet block was all automated, but there happened to be a power shortage
and I happened to choose a toilet which
would not let me out. So here I am stuck in a small room, no lights, all
enclosed the rest of the family sitting at the beach taking photos screaming
for help. Thankfully before I could get to hysterical a couple heard me, and a
man managed to run his full weight against the door to open in. Well I was very
thankful to them, and also slightly frazzled as I headed back to the family
with none of them realizing, yet they did feel slightly guilty, and did promise
me that they would have eventually came looking for me. We then headed to
Sisters Beach, for more photo opportunities and a picnic lunch.
After that we headed to Stanley, and were very impressed by
the view on the way up, the Stanley Nut. WOW, what a big ‘mountain’ on the edge
of land. Our stay for the night was right under it too. After unpacking the
car, and relaxing for a while, Dad, Des, Chris, Alex, Sophie + myself headed to
the chairlift. It takes you up and over the nut to look at the view from the
top. A little to thrilling for myself, so I sat with dad + Sophie while we
watched the boys brave the wind and head up.
Their faces when they came down, and the video to prove it, it must have
been a little scary, I am glad I didn’t have a go. We then had nice easy
dinner, us ladies did some washing and had an otherwise easy night.

#Day 15

Thursday 15th March
Buffet Breakfast at the Swiss Village restaurant, what a
great way to start your day. After which we left Launceston and headed out to
mum + dad’s spot Swan point, a little bit of a detour, but a special place for
the parents, so definlty worth it. We then headed out to Deloraine, and stopped
into the Raspberry Farm for lunch.
What an amazingly delicious place, it was pouring cats and
dogs outside but we were cosy sitting inside, and getting our bellies filled
with such delicious goodies; as raspberry marinated chicken salad, waffles with
raspberry ice-cream and sauce, scones with raspberry sauce and cream or pavlova
with raspberry sauce and cream. There were also raspberry drinks available and
choc covered raspberry samples. It was definlty a treat for us all, and
something to recommend to friends.
After filling our tummy’s we travelled to Latrobe, where we
stopped at a much talked about shop ‘Reliquarie’. What a crazy shop. Upon
entering the shop you come across millions of porcelain dolls of all shapes and
sizes, the next room greets you with old fashioned dolls and phones, then onto
different brass door handles then the shop just goes on and on, there is fancy
jewellery in glass cabinets there are nick naks, there are books, kids toys,
games, science section, a scary walk through with human size mannequins that
talk and end in a kaleidoscope room, an hour and half in this shop and we still
had not seen it all!
Next stop was a race against time to get to Burnie
Distillery before 4.30pm, for some whiskey tasting for the boys. It was very
nice seeing as they stayed open longer for us. After that we went on our way to Wynyard, where we happened to come
across an accident that had just happened, after making sure no one was hurt
and helping clear the road, we then took off to our stay for the night. With
nice cabins each, we rushed to the shop bought some bbq essentials for dinner
and set up for the night. There was even a heated pool to end the day with.

#Day 14

Wednesday 14th March
A Happy 2nd birthday to our niece, Alicia Kate
Vanderlaan. We got ready to head out today to do some shopping and a picnic
lunch. BUT, guess what another flat tyre! Well with no spare, we weren’t going
anywhere. So a quick call to make sure mum and dad hadn’t left yet, we piled
the 2 tyres all 7 of us plus pram and presents into the Tarago. We ladies got
dropped off into town to do some shopping while the boys went to sort out the
tyres. We didn’t really have much time to shop, just browsed in a few windows,
then stopped at The Pantry to pick up our lunch. What a cute little
bakery/café. We then drove to City Park, at the playground end to help Alicia
celebrate her birthday with a little picnic party. Was nice also to catch up
with people, and the kids to enjoy the playground. After the picnic some of us
went on the train ride around the park, we were shown one tree that was planted
roughly in the beginning 1800’s, pretty old. We then headed out to see the
monkeys in the enclosure at the park. Pretty funny animals. After that some of
us headed back into towns, to do some uggie shopping and more browsing. Once we
were finished we picked up the 2 new tyres, and headed to des + Sues unit for
birthday cake with Alicia. After a quick dinner of cheesy’s, we went with lee +
Alex back to the Dingemanse’s, so the boys could do some motorbike riding (Chris
just had to have a turn on Hamish’s bike) before heading back home around 8.30.

#Day 13

Tuesday 13th March
Today we left ‘home’ around 9.45am, first stop was
travelling through Launceston to see houses where dad had lived, then on
through to young town, where Chris lived as a child. It was nice to see where
he grew up. We then got morning tea, and went to the cemetery to pay respects
to family members. After a quick toilet break we went on to Evandale, where we
took photos of old churches and buildings, a very beautiful place. We then went
up the beaten track to Nile River, a place where Chris talked about from his
childhood. After going up the gravel track for a while, we finally found ‘the
place’ We pulled over, got out the gas cooker and fried some eggs for
sandwiches. Alex + Chris also decided to brave the cold and go for a swim.
Freezing waters, by the look on their faces! After spending around 2 hours just
chilling, we headed back through Evandale for a quick pick up of drinks, and
then off to The Cataract Gorge! WOW! Beautiful place, we did a walk around,
found lots of peacocks and even braved the suspension bridge. ( a little bit to
scary for my liking, im pretty sure I had eyes closed for a while) Then just as
we were leaving, a flat tyre! Must have been from the gravel roads, oh well lucky we had a
spare! We quickly changed it, headed ‘home’ to freshen up then off to A.Therese
and U.Phil DeRuiter for dinner, yummy soups and bread,

#Day 12

Monday 12th March
Today we had a quiet morning, before headed to the
Legana/Launceston annual church picnic at Myrtle Park. What a wonderful event,
it was very well organised and seemed as many made the effort to come and make
it an enjoyable day. With picnic lunch and organized games (volley ball,
cricket, church ‘olympic’ games – gumboot toss, how many nails can you hammer under
20 seconds, casting into a bucket, 10 pin bowling) We had a really fun time.

Around 3 we went back to the resort, where I was able to
catch up on days of blogging, and Chris + Alex played some tennis, with Des
joining in later on. We then had an easy night/dinner.

#Day 11

Sunday 11th March
Today is the Sabbath day and we were able to join in with
Legana Service in the morning. It was a wonderful sermon by Rev. Kroeze about
God’s love and our love for our neighbours. One sentence that stuck was: If we
can love God who we have not seen, then how do we not love our neighbour who we
have seen. A sentence to ponder on. After the service we went up to Aunty Carol
+ Uncle Eddies’ place. All the way at the end of their street, situated on 140 acres,(i think, will recheck :D)
there property is wonderland. With a self-made dam, cows + calves, a ‘museum’
shed, spa/pool, there was lots to show us, and it was all great. We stayed for lunch, and then headed back to
the resort to drop of the babysitters, then we went up to Launceston church for
the afternoon service, which was led by Rev Eilkelboom. This was another great
sermon, talking about God’s new covenant for us, one that he renews daily. After the sermon we picked up the babysitters
and headed back to the Dingemanse’s for dinner with other guests. We had an enjoyable
spread of chicken, roast, sausages, steaks and salads, we were all adequately
stuffed! Then u. Eddie took us out to his shack, about a 3km drive through
complete bush, us standing in the tray of his Ute, holding a spottie to find
the roo’s. It was a bumpy ride, but definlty worth it to see the extent of his
property and the shack. It was a great
night, getting to see places were Chris grew up and were all his memories are focused
on, also putting a visual to it all.

#Day 10

Saturday 10th March.
Had an enjoyable morning, just doing nothing, a bit of
washing and cleaning. We then met together around 11, because it was Dads
birthday. We handed out presents. (We got him a Myrtle wood Tassie shaped
clock, from Richmond) We then left for a 40th Wedding Anniversary of
Rene + Shirley Hidding, and Hidding get together that was located at Tail-Race
Park. There was a delicious morning tea
of scones, followed by a great bbq lunch. It was nice to meet the extended
Hidding family and also to catch up with familiar faces. Around 2 we headed
back to the resort, Chris + Alex checked out the gym, while Sophie + I went for
a swim in the heated pool. Sophie loved the kid’s end, as she was able to walk
and swim in int. Around 5.30 we went back to Myrtle Park to spend the evening
enjoying a yummy roast for dinner and then sitting around the camp fire sharing
stories. It did get VERY cold while we were there. Felt nice to be able to head
home and sleep in our warm beds instead of toughing it out in tents or
caravans.

#Day 9

Friday 9th March.
Everyone was eager for today to begin, for tonight we would
be in Launceston. And we also had lots of stops to see along the way. We left
around 9.30am and our first stop was St Columbus Falls. We walked through some
beautiful rainforest before stopping in front of the magnificent falls. Needless
to say we took a lot of photos. On the way back from the falls we stop at
Pyengana Cheese Factory, for some tasty cheese tastings, and a picnic lunch and
fresh milkshakes. The girls enjoyed using the play equipment while we ate. After
we headed out and turned onto a gravel track after what felt like we were lost
we found what we were looking for. Mt Paris Dam, It used to be a dam, but they
no longer use it, and the community wanted to keep it, so they blasted holes in
the wall. We were able to walk through and around it, the walls were really
high! We then travelled through Scottsdale and onto Derby. Dad wanted to check
out Derby tunnel. So Dad + Alex, Des, Chris + Sophie and myself equipped with
torches and a pick, headed in search of this tunnel. After walking down a bush
track for a while we found the entrance. Hmm, seemed interesting enough, so
seeing no signs that said do not enter, we walked in and walked on, and on, and
on. It became darker and darker, lucky we had the torches! We walked on, it was
UNREAL! At one point we thought, lets turn of the torches see how dark it is. Couldn’t
see a thing! And then we looked up and what do we see, Glow-worms! Amazing, millions
and millions of them lit up the tunnel ceiling, none of us had ever witnessed
this before, what a great experience. We then kept on going, but the floor was
getting wetter, and harder to walk. We nearly got to the end, but came across
deeper water, and not knowing what was in we decided to head back. Upon coming
out of the tunnel, it was crazy feeling the temperature difference, the once cool
outside air now felt really warm compared to the tunnel air. In derby there is
the Tin Tunnel Centre where there was information on the tunnel and why it was
there, but we were unable to stop. We then left Derby and continued all the way
to Myrtle Park, to stop and say hi to De Ruiter family and other members of the
church who were all staying there. From there we drove into Launceston. This is
not a small town that I was expecting, the houses went on and on up the hills,
and then we drove into the town centre, talk about steep ‘hilly’ streets! Mum +
Dad had told us we were staying in Prospect, which is about 20 mins (I think)
from Launceston. We turned into Atkinson Road (where hidding’s used to live)
and dad pulled over. We pulled up next to him, and then parents told us that we
would not be staying in prospect but rather here in Grindelwald and the Swiss
Village (Tamar Valley Resort) The ‘kids’ were so excited all screaming that
they couldn’t believe it. This place holds special memories for them, since it
was around the corner from where they used to live, and as kids they used to
play at the resort grounds. We then drove up Atkinson rd, passed chirs’s old
home, and turned into the resort. WOW what a spectacular place to stay. We were
given a 2 bedroom apartment (and Des + Sue) while mum + dad are up the road in
a 2 bedroom ‘house’. With heated swimming pool, gym, putt putt, 18 hole golf
course, jumping pillow, aqua bubble, day spa we were all very excited to be
here.
That night Kate picked up Lee + Alex for dinner with friends. While Dad + Mum,
Des + Sue, Chris + Myself orderd room service from the restaurant. Was very
yummy.

#Day 8

Thursday 8th march
Left Coles Bay this morning and head off to St Helens. We
left around 9 am and first stop Bicheno. After Toilet breaks we went and saw
the blowhole. WOW! What fun. It was really windy and cold, but perfect weather
to witness the blowhole in action. Chris + Alex + Dad tried getting up nice and
close to the action and the boys ended up getting drenched. After we headed to
the bakery for morning tea, then did some souvenir shopping. Next stop elephant
pass. What a lot of winding roads and beautiful sights. At the top of the hill
there is the elephant pancake house, where we stopped for some, of course! Very
filling and yummy. After that we headed straight to St Helens, where we did a
tour of the town, then went to our night stay, Queechy Cottages. It was raining
when we arrived (and apparently hadn’t stopped in a few days) but it just made
our stay cosier. We enjoyed some fish + chips together then had quiet night.

#Day 7

Wednesday 7th March
This morning was a lazy one, sleeping in and a late breakky
after which the girls had an early sleep while the rest of us read books, watch
movies or caught up on blogging. Then the fun began in the afternoon.
At 1.oopm, Dad, Chris, Des, Alex, Lee + Kylie, headed up the
road for some 4wd adventures. Quad biking! Des and Kylie on the 300cc and Chris
on the 350cc quad bikes, while Dad with Lee + Alex as passengers road in an off-road
buggy. We followed our leader, Ben, through the national park going up and down
hills, riding through massive potholes and getting soaked through the muddy
puddles. We went for 50min before we stopped at Friendly Beach for a hot
chocolate and cookie (supplied by the company) Stretched our legs and then we
took off back to base, this time picking up our speeds (probably about 40 k’s)
and trying to dodge the puddles (well rather we did and dad aimed right for
them, soaking his passengers in mud!) Alex filmed it all on his go-pro so
hopefully can get our hands on the footage to show at a later date.
We came back to camp around 3.30pm, where we all headed for
a quick shower to warm us up and rinse of the mud. We then relaxed till around
5.30/6.00 then all met at the bbq area for some yummy steaks and sausages for
dinner.
After dinner we went for a drive to the national park, and
went for a walk to the lighthouse and took some nice photos of the landscape.

#Day 6

Tuesday 6th March
Today we packed up ready for our next destination. Coles
Bay.
First stop Richmond. What a quaint town. Very old, and well
preserved. We stopped at the bakery for coffee and cake, yummy! And then did
some window looking at all the antique shops, from brass keyrings to plush French
dining sets, to Tasmanian wood carvings there was lots to keep us entertained.
From there we headed for Ross. We stopped along the way at Oatlands, were we
bought some flour from the Flour Mill, with its own cute windmill. At Ross we
stopped at another bakery, this one for lunch, which was absolutely delicious. After that we headed on towards Campbell Town
where we got some last minute essentials, stopped at the butchers, toilet break,
and also got a yummy icecream!, then off we went on our last leg towards Coles
Bay. After about 70ks of windy Tassie roads we made it to our destination.
Iluka Caravan Park, Coles Bay. We got a cute cabin, while mum + dad got a
stunning log cabin. We will be spending our next 2 nights here. We had an easy
dinner together. The girls went to bed. The boys went for a beach walk. And Im
told that they discovered how cold the water really is here (at 8.30 at night)
after chris got wet from standing on what he thought would be a safe, waterless
ledge, but no a wave came rolling in, and he ended up with wet shoes.

#Day 5

Monday 5th March
What a day! I sit here at night time trying to remember all
that we did! It was an incredible day that’s for sure.
It started with us getting ready and heading out at 9am, first stop Eastlands
shopping centre, dad needed new walking shoes. After a quick run around we found
some and we were off on our big adventure.
We first stopped off at the Tessellated Pavement. What an
incredible thing to see. The rock had become like pavement with the waves
eroding at them. It was also terribly cold and windy so the boys were the only
ones game enough to actually head down to the beach and they took photos and
video’s for us.
We then hopped back in the car for a 5 min drive to a café for
some coffee/tea’s to warm our insides, and then off again.
This time we stopped at the ‘Devils kitchen’ and Tasman
arch. WOW! A complete stomach flop when looking down, and then pure awe at the
beauty of the cliff and arch formation. A few of us went for the 15 min rtn
walk, to see the cliff edge and also to go to the kitchen. Truly spectacular.
We then drove a further up the road to the blowholes. We
were able to watch as water came in from the sea, under the cliff then crashed
against the cliff. Amazing!
Then off we went to our main attraction for the day! Port
Arthur! When we arrived it started to pour down with rain, and then wind picked
up, great we thought since we would be walking all afternoon. We first had some
lunch and once we packed the esky’s into the car the sun came out (and stayed
out for the rest of the 5 hours that we were there!) Well Port Arthur how does
one capture its magnificence and beauty in words? We walked from old church’s
to old headquarters, to the penitentiary to the governors house. Nearly
everything we were able to walk in , and some of the houses even had ‘setups’
in rooms so you were able to see how it would have been ‘back in the day.’ We
also caught a ferry that departed from port Arthur and did a loop, showing Port
Arthur from a distance and giving a commentary. We also passed the isle of the
dead where convicts were buried. (A ghost tour was available at 8.30pm, which
would have been quiet good, a thing to do next time :P) Once back on dry land,
we continued our walk, stopped for a family photo, and basking in the beauty.
Around 5 we decided to stop in the Port Arthur café for a quick
drink and snack (girls bottles) before heading off to the Remarkable Cave. When
we got there, there was a small path off to the side, so we all bundled up
against the cold and started our walk down, down, down quite a number of
stairs. Before finally ending up at the ‘remarkable’ cave. A cliff which the
waves had eroded over time. We were able to stand on this viewing platform
(which at high tide would be covered) and watch the waves rolling in. Chris +
Alex being the boys that they are decided to climb down and stand on rock about
2 meters from where the waves ended. Then Alex went off to the side, walking on
the rocks, so we all thought would be fun to scare him. So after a little while
Chris started screaming that a HUGE wave was coming and started running towards
us, the rest of us on a viewing platform ducked, Well Alex didn’t know were to
turn, ive never seen anyone try to climb up a cliff wall so fast. But the look
on his face was priceless, and of course we all forgot to video for this
moment. (well done alex for being a good sport about it later though.)
From the remarkable cave, we drove to Sorrell for some
takeaway dinner, then off to Hobart for bedtime (kylie + Sophie) Chris, Dad,
Alex + Lee, Des + Sue, went to view a
cruise ship that was in the harbor and went for a drive about.

#Day 4

Sunday 4th March.
We started this beautiful Sunday listening to the Tassie rain
fall on our roof. We then had a scrumptious buffet breakfast together of
pancakes, crumpets, croissants and yoghurt. We then were able to sit down
together and read a sermon from Rev. Veldman. The sermon was about Hope +
Salvation. Based on Romans 8: 17-30.
After our sermon we packed a picnic lunch and headed out to
the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. With a gold coin donation we were able
to see all that this 14 hectare park had to offer. It was amazing. And very
fitting that we were able to see and be part of God’s wonderful creation on
this blessed Sunday.
We were able to walk along viewing the different displays
from the cultural heritage areas, Tasmanian plant displays, the horticultural displays
and the origin planting. We saw sights such as;
the Lily pond, the ferny rainforest house, conservatory, we then stopped
for some yummy lunch then off again viewing Pete’s (Peter Cundall) veggie
patch, a cactus house , then off to the Rose Arbour, the French memorial Garden
and the Japanese Garden. It was truly beautiful all the different display’s,
(showing various countries) beautifully put together for us to enjoy.
Around 3 we quickly headed to our apartments for some warmer
gear and took off up Mt. Wellington. It was really exciting getting higher and
higher up the mountain and seeing the view. It was so COLD up the top though!
Lucky we were all rugged up! Sophie looked like a little marshmallow. So
FLUFFY! :D It was also very windy, at one point we were all leaning at quiet an
angle just to stand up, highly entertaining for us though. After taking a lot
of photos of selves and views, we headed back down the mountain. Then for a
quick drive by the Cascades to show us the beautiful building, we then headed
back home, for a quiet night.

#Day 4

Sunday 4th March.
We started this beautiful Sunday listening to the Tassie rain
fall on our roof. We then had a scrumptious buffet breakfast together of
pancakes, crumpets, croissants and yoghurt. We then were able to sit down
together and read a sermon from Rev. Veldman. The sermon was about Hope +
Salvation. Based on Romans 8: 17-30.
After our sermon we packed a picnic lunch and headed out to
the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. With a gold coin donation we were able
to see all that this 14 hectare park had to offer. It was amazing. And very
fitting that we were able to see and be part of God’s wonderful creation on
this blessed Sunday.
We were able to walk along viewing the different displays
from the cultural heritage areas, Tasmanian plant displays, the horticultural displays
and the origin planting. We saw sights such as;
the Lily pond, the ferny rainforest house, conservatory, we then stopped
for some yummy lunch then off again viewing Pete’s (Peter Cundall) veggie
patch, a cactus house , then off to the Rose Arbour, the French memorial Garden
and the Japanese Garden. It was truly beautiful all the different display’s,
(showing various countries) beautifully put together for us to enjoy.
Around 3 we quickly headed to our apartments for some warmer
gear and took off up Mt. Wellington. It was really exciting getting higher and
higher up the mountain and seeing the view. It was so COLD up the top though!
Lucky we were all rugged up! Sophie looked like a little marshmallow. So
FLUFFY! :D It was also very windy, at one point we were all leaning at quiet an
angle just to stand up, highly entertaining for us though. After taking a lot
of photos of selves and views, we headed back down the mountain. Then for a
quick drive by the Cascades to show us the beautiful building, we then headed
back home, for a quiet night.

# Day 3

Saturday 3rd March. Chris + Dad started the day with a nice morning walk, theywere the only ones daring enough to risk the cold! The rest smartly stayed inthe safety of their warm beds. We then all met to start the day at 10 thenheaded off to Hobart to the Salamanca Markets. What an amazing day! Beautifulhome made goods, from fruit + veg’s, knitted wear, cascade drinks + chillibeer, fresh juices, choc dipped strawberries, poffichers (dutch pancakes, yum!)there was a lot to see and do. Sophie slept the 2 hours while we browsed andshopped. Chris bought a ‘forno a legro’ copper plate sign for his pizza oven.We then met up to have some lunch, and while we were there we had a lovely visit from U.Phil + A.Therese and Daniel, who had come from Launceston to spend the afternoon with us. It was reallynice catching up and spending time together. We hit the Waursthouse togetherfor some afternoon tea goods, then headed back to our apartments for drinks +nibblies. We had a yummy warm dinner together, with more chatting before theDe Ruiter's had to head home around 8pm. The Chris + I along with Mum + Alex wentfor a walk to the marina, where the harbor + bridge was beautifully lit againstthe still water and we took some photos, then headed ‘home’ for relaxation,quiet time + bed.

#Day 2

Friday 2nd March.

Sophie woke us up just after 9am. After some lovely snuggles
in +cuppa teas, we had showers +breakky and some free time for blogging, tv,
emailing and reading. We then headed out around 11.30 to do some grocery
shopping.
We made it back to our apartments for an easy lunch and some
more relaxing.
Around 3.30 we went out and headed to Sorrell. It was an island
connected by roads formed on top of sandbanks. It was rathe fascinating to see.
When got into Sorrell, Dad’s Tarago pulled up in front of a nursery. We were a
bit apprehensive about what we were doing there. But once we headed inside
sounds of delight were heard all around. It was a HUGE hobby/toy shop. There
was helicopter, cars, motorbikes, boats etc to keep the boys occupied, while us
girls looked through all the dolls old and new, dollhouses and accessories. There
were even memorabilia dolls from betty boop, elvis to ET and chubaka. It was
very impressive! Dad + boys bought a remote helicopter, (which kept them
fascinated that night) We then headed into Hobart. We got to cross the Hobart
bridge! It was SO impressive! We then did a looksee of the harbour, and some blockies
of Hobart town. Some beautiful old houses, lots of parks (+swings) it is all
very picturesque. We then drove back to our apartment’s. Had a delicious dinner
and everyone headed of about 8pm to do their own thing.

Tasmania #Day 1

Thursday 1st March

I woke up rather excited at 6am, and got out of bed at
6.3oam, eager to start the day. Chris + Sophie got up between 7.30/8.00am. We
did some last minute packing, cleaned the house and waited for our transport.
The Bus arrived at 10am, we piled on and headed to the domestic airport. We had
a smooth run and got there around 10.40am. Upon checking in our luggage + prams
we then went upstairs for some coffee and morning tea. Sophie + Alicia had a
blast, running around and tiring themselves out. Since we had a lot of time to
spare we decided to have lunch – red rooster- before our flight.
Our boarding call sounded at 12.40pm and we all hopped on the plane. Seated near the end of the plane was Chris,
myself + Sophie, Alex across the aisle Lee, Mum, Dad and behind us Sue+ Alicia,
Des. It was a rather full flight.
Sophie was ubber tired and while drinking her bottle on
take-off promptly fell asleep. And Alicia followed soon after. The flight was a
smooth run, about 3 hours 15 mins, of which sophie slept for 2! It was great the
rest of us entertained ourselves with reading, puzzles or watching movies. We arrived in Melbourne at 8.30pm. There was a
small amount of turbulence on our landing, but Sophie thought it was hilarious
all the bumping around and giggled right through it!
Once in Melbourne we all headed straight to our boarding
area, then split up doing our own thing for drinks and snacks. The boarding
call for Hobart sounded at 9.30pm.
It was a lovely empty flight to Hobart, we were all able to
get about 2 seats each. We had a smooth run of about 50 mins. Sophie was easily
occupied during the flight, but was not too impressed to be seated for landing,
and got a little upset and had a bit of sore ears, but after wrapping her in a
blanket she was happier.
We got into Hobart at roughly 10.45pm. We walked off the
plane onto the Tarmac, and it was a lovely 12-c a bit of a cold shock for us
all. We then got our suitcases and prams, and went in search of our cars. After
filling out the paper work we became proud of owners of a camry for 3.5 weeks
(2.xcamrys, 1xTarago)We then headed off to our apartments. On the way we were
able to catch sight of the Hobart bridge, lit up so beautifully against the
night sky, with the mountain ranges as their backdrop. It truly was
magnificent. When we got to our apartments, Sophie headed off to bed, and promptly
fell asleep around 12.30pm.After making ourselves a nice cuppa tea to warm the
insides we too climbed under our nice warm doonas and quickly fell into a deep
sleep.