The morning after the wedding, I had to be up fairly early to make an appointment at the Apple store in Ala Moana Shopping Centre. As you have probably noticed I have not been able to post photos with my blog (very frustrating) and it turns out tht I have a problem with my Itunes store. My very patient and caring friend Nick, has been emailing me trying to solve the problem but it was beyond repair, so off the Apple store I went.
The good news is that the problem looks like being solved very soon (hopefully even tomorrow) and then I will update all my posts and fill in the the photos I have been taking.
After some wandering around and lunch, we decided to take it pretty easy in the afternoon. We headed back to the apartment and I went for a long swim in the pool while Russ slept on the sun-lounge. Guess all the excitement of the previous couple of days caught up with us!!!
Friday we wentured out to Pearl Harbour. We caught a shuttle bus out the front of the apartments and it dropped us off a little way up the street from the entry. Russ had already visited Pearl Harbour when our cruise visited Hawaii (about 3 years ago). Because time was timited then, he only explored the Aviation Museum. (I went shopping !!!!) This was his first choice as his Dad had been a pilot in New Guinea during WW2. This time we planned to visit the Arizona memorial and the site in general.
I must say that some of the things I do not enjoy are ... museums, history, war and killing. You can imagine then that Pearl Habour was not my first choice of how to spend a day. I basically left Russ to explore all the museums and exhibits on his own. I wandered around and took some photos with my new camera and just took in the scenery.
We then went into the theatre to watch a 15 minute film about the history and facts of the bombing on 7 December 1941. I found this extremely moving and very informative. We boarded a Navy boats for the very short trip to the Arizona memorial itself. This is the iconic white builidng you see on anything about Pearl Harbour. It is a very simple, stark memorial built over the remains of the sunken battleship. The ruins are the actual grave of approxiately 1100 men who never escaped the battleship before it sank after a direct bombing. It is supposed to be a place for no talking and just quiet contemplation. Unfortunately many people failed to understand this which I found really disrespectful.
If you look at the huge marble wall engraved with the names of all the men who lie beneath, you could not help but be moved and grateful for their sacrifice.
Our shuttle bus was very late picking us up, so we ended up getting stuck in peak hour traffic at the start of a long weekend (Memorial Day). Finally maded it back to base around 6pm. Long day.
Michael had organised a final get together for everyone in the nearest beach park. There was still a fair bit of drink left over from the wedding and they obviously could not take it with them, so anyone who was interested grabbed some food and met at the park. The best thing was that every Friday night there is a massive fireworks display right over the lagoon next to the park, so we also had free entertainment. Can't beat that!!!!!
It was a great way to finish off our time in Hawaii. Lots of the guests were heading home, a few going to the mainland for further adventures and some grabbing an extra few days of sunshine before they returned to Melbourne's winter. Farewells were said and then a longish walk back around the lagoon to our apartment.
We packed up everything before going to bed as we had a VERY early start this morning. The airport shuttle I had booked picked us up at 5:30 this morning and our flight left Oahu at 8:00am. We arrived in Los Angeles around 4:30pm and FINALLY got to our new 'home' just after 6pm. After a quick orientation walk, we grabbed some dinner, unpacked and as I type Russ is snoring his way to the land of nod!!!
Time to grab some sleep, so we can start our jam-packed schedule for the next few days. The is sooo much we want to see and do while we are here!!
Hope you enjoyed my post on the wedding. Hopefully I will be able to post lots of photos very soon. Thinking of you all xx
Sunday, May 27, 2012
The Wedding (at last)
After another full day of shopping, Tuesday night saw us at the Tiki Bar and Grill for the traditional Rehearsal Dinner. This was attended by the bridal party and their partners and all family. I think there was around 30 people in all, sitting along a huge table. It was a wonderful opportunity to get together, chat and catchup with what every had been doing.
The bride and groom provided an amazing buffet meal with everything you could imagine!! Cocktails flowed and everyone had a great time. At the end of the night there was still so much food left that Zac, one of Sarah's bridesmen, and I packed everything up and it went back to the apartments to feed the starving hoards for the next couple of days!!!
The wedding day dawned with more glorious sunshine. After a short sleep-in, I went downstairs for my hairdressers appointment at 11:30. This was when things went slightly askew. There was NO appointment recorded, even though Russ said he had made one, and they were too busy to fit me in anywhere. AGH!!!!!! After a few tears I realized there was nothing I could do, so set about trying to make the best of my hair on my own.
So, hair and make-up done, I held my breath and stepped into the dress I had chosen. I was holding my breath because I had not tried it on since I arived and there wss not a lot of room to spare. Anyway, the dress zipped up easily (phew) and we made our way down stairs to the bus which Mick had arranged to get everyone to the venue.
The bridal party (girls) had taken a limo early in the morning to have their hair and make-up done at the venue. The guys took the morning off to go shooting(!!!) at a local range and then also caught a limo at lunchtime.
The bus wss full with around 50 guests, beers were passed around and the mood was fabulous. Mick had arranged for us to take the scenic route so that people who had been in Honolulu only had a chance to take in some of the beautiful scenery of the North Shore. We arrived safely at the venue for the wedding, Lulu Palms estate, and piled off the bus with many people making a dash for the loo. It had been a 90 minute drive with beers after all!!
Not long after we alighted from the bus, the sky clouded over and some rain fell. Poor Mick, he was pretty disappointed given that the weather for the past two weeks had been continual sunshine. The rain passed quickly enough though, and before I knew it the ceremony was beginning. It was absolutely wonderful and a true reflection of Mick and Sarah's personalities. The procession started with some of the guys, then three couples of attendants, a very cute page boy and two of the cutest flowergirls I have ever seen. (If you haven't seen the photos check them out on my Facebook page). Then the beautiful bride arrived on the arm of her very proud Dad, Juan. She looked absolutely stunning and like an angel. Sarah has dark very curly hair and it hung halfway down her back with Frangipani flowers threaded into it. Her veil was very long and fell from a clip in the back of her hair. Her dress was divine. Cream chiffon with a deep v-neck front and back. I was so delighted to see that Sarah had bucked the ccurrent trend and DID NOT have a strapless dress. It had a crisscrossed tie under the bust which became a very long train. The sleeves were elbow length and made of three levels of frills. I don't actually feel I am doing the dress justice with this description.
Her skirt was gentle flowing and very feminine. The night before the wedding Sarah had sewn some very fine strings of beading onto the neckline and front of the dress. It looked so beautiful.
The ceremony was short and uncomplicated and I wish you all had been there to hear their very individual vows. They were a wondeful combination of sincere love and committment and some humour. I hope to get a transcript so I can share some of it some time.
Once the ceremony was finished the party started immediately. The bar was opened and the most amazing array of food appeared. There was all sorts of delicious things including a huge cheeseboard, salads,savouries, fruit, and desserts. Everyone filled their plates more than once.
There was a huge photo for everyone to sign, a photo booth for instant photos and a tiny clothes line to hang them on, a 'beer pong' table which is a favourite drinking game of the bride and groom (and friends). There were even individualised beer pong balls (like ping pong balls) with the date of the wedding, their names and a flower all tied up in little white gauze bags. So cute. There were games to play, bubble guns for the kids, a dance floor and an excellent DJ who kept the tunes going all day/night. It was some party.
Sure it rained a couple of times during the night, but it was never cold and the rain dried up before you knew it. At sunset everyone walked down to the beach to watch the sun sink into the sea and more photos were taken. It was spectacular.
There were some very funny speeches from some of Mick's mates and some lovely heartwarming ones from the girls.
The cake (red velvet cupcakes with a single top level and bride and groom smurfs) was cut and the groom ended up with cake all over his face (in trye American tradition). Mick made a wonderful speech and I was very proud.
It was such a relaxed and fun wedding. Everyone commented that they could not remember being at a better wedding.
The DJ kept everyone dancing, the barman was working hard and beore we knew it, the evening ended in the tradional "Mick' way. He and several of his mates did their now familiar 'nudie run' round the estate grounds. It was hysterically funny, especailly when someone moved their clothes and they had to search through the bushes using the light from their mobile phones before they found them.
We all finally re-boarded the buses and made our way back to Honolulu. Not sure what the other bus was like but, lead by an able group of young people at the back of the bus, we sang our way home. Everything from Khe Sahn to Advance Australia Fair.
I could not have wished for a better wedding to celebrate Mick and Sarah and their amazing love story. It was a true reflection of them and despite the fact that the stress almost made Mick grey overnight, it was well worth it. They worked so hard to make sure everyone had a fantastic time, not just at the wedding, but during their whole holiday in Hawaii.
I had the most wonderful day. I was so unbelievably proud of Mick and Sarah, I got to spend heaps of time with my gorgeous son David, his lovely wife Kylie and my very precious grandson Brodie (who was impecably behaved all day as usual). I also had the chance to chat to my darling daughter Jess which was a real treat. I could not have asked for anything more and after two wonderful weddings this year I am sure I will be on a high for a very long time.
The bride and groom provided an amazing buffet meal with everything you could imagine!! Cocktails flowed and everyone had a great time. At the end of the night there was still so much food left that Zac, one of Sarah's bridesmen, and I packed everything up and it went back to the apartments to feed the starving hoards for the next couple of days!!!
The wedding day dawned with more glorious sunshine. After a short sleep-in, I went downstairs for my hairdressers appointment at 11:30. This was when things went slightly askew. There was NO appointment recorded, even though Russ said he had made one, and they were too busy to fit me in anywhere. AGH!!!!!! After a few tears I realized there was nothing I could do, so set about trying to make the best of my hair on my own.
So, hair and make-up done, I held my breath and stepped into the dress I had chosen. I was holding my breath because I had not tried it on since I arived and there wss not a lot of room to spare. Anyway, the dress zipped up easily (phew) and we made our way down stairs to the bus which Mick had arranged to get everyone to the venue.
The bridal party (girls) had taken a limo early in the morning to have their hair and make-up done at the venue. The guys took the morning off to go shooting(!!!) at a local range and then also caught a limo at lunchtime.
The bus wss full with around 50 guests, beers were passed around and the mood was fabulous. Mick had arranged for us to take the scenic route so that people who had been in Honolulu only had a chance to take in some of the beautiful scenery of the North Shore. We arrived safely at the venue for the wedding, Lulu Palms estate, and piled off the bus with many people making a dash for the loo. It had been a 90 minute drive with beers after all!!
Not long after we alighted from the bus, the sky clouded over and some rain fell. Poor Mick, he was pretty disappointed given that the weather for the past two weeks had been continual sunshine. The rain passed quickly enough though, and before I knew it the ceremony was beginning. It was absolutely wonderful and a true reflection of Mick and Sarah's personalities. The procession started with some of the guys, then three couples of attendants, a very cute page boy and two of the cutest flowergirls I have ever seen. (If you haven't seen the photos check them out on my Facebook page). Then the beautiful bride arrived on the arm of her very proud Dad, Juan. She looked absolutely stunning and like an angel. Sarah has dark very curly hair and it hung halfway down her back with Frangipani flowers threaded into it. Her veil was very long and fell from a clip in the back of her hair. Her dress was divine. Cream chiffon with a deep v-neck front and back. I was so delighted to see that Sarah had bucked the ccurrent trend and DID NOT have a strapless dress. It had a crisscrossed tie under the bust which became a very long train. The sleeves were elbow length and made of three levels of frills. I don't actually feel I am doing the dress justice with this description.
Her skirt was gentle flowing and very feminine. The night before the wedding Sarah had sewn some very fine strings of beading onto the neckline and front of the dress. It looked so beautiful.
The ceremony was short and uncomplicated and I wish you all had been there to hear their very individual vows. They were a wondeful combination of sincere love and committment and some humour. I hope to get a transcript so I can share some of it some time.
Once the ceremony was finished the party started immediately. The bar was opened and the most amazing array of food appeared. There was all sorts of delicious things including a huge cheeseboard, salads,savouries, fruit, and desserts. Everyone filled their plates more than once.
There was a huge photo for everyone to sign, a photo booth for instant photos and a tiny clothes line to hang them on, a 'beer pong' table which is a favourite drinking game of the bride and groom (and friends). There were even individualised beer pong balls (like ping pong balls) with the date of the wedding, their names and a flower all tied up in little white gauze bags. So cute. There were games to play, bubble guns for the kids, a dance floor and an excellent DJ who kept the tunes going all day/night. It was some party.
Sure it rained a couple of times during the night, but it was never cold and the rain dried up before you knew it. At sunset everyone walked down to the beach to watch the sun sink into the sea and more photos were taken. It was spectacular.
There were some very funny speeches from some of Mick's mates and some lovely heartwarming ones from the girls.
The cake (red velvet cupcakes with a single top level and bride and groom smurfs) was cut and the groom ended up with cake all over his face (in trye American tradition). Mick made a wonderful speech and I was very proud.
It was such a relaxed and fun wedding. Everyone commented that they could not remember being at a better wedding.
The DJ kept everyone dancing, the barman was working hard and beore we knew it, the evening ended in the tradional "Mick' way. He and several of his mates did their now familiar 'nudie run' round the estate grounds. It was hysterically funny, especailly when someone moved their clothes and they had to search through the bushes using the light from their mobile phones before they found them.
We all finally re-boarded the buses and made our way back to Honolulu. Not sure what the other bus was like but, lead by an able group of young people at the back of the bus, we sang our way home. Everything from Khe Sahn to Advance Australia Fair.
I could not have wished for a better wedding to celebrate Mick and Sarah and their amazing love story. It was a true reflection of them and despite the fact that the stress almost made Mick grey overnight, it was well worth it. They worked so hard to make sure everyone had a fantastic time, not just at the wedding, but during their whole holiday in Hawaii.
I had the most wonderful day. I was so unbelievably proud of Mick and Sarah, I got to spend heaps of time with my gorgeous son David, his lovely wife Kylie and my very precious grandson Brodie (who was impecably behaved all day as usual). I also had the chance to chat to my darling daughter Jess which was a real treat. I could not have asked for anything more and after two wonderful weddings this year I am sure I will be on a high for a very long time.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Honolulu
It was hard to be sad leaving on Saturday morning. While it had been incredible being at Turtle Bay Resort, there was still so much to explore and do. So taking my place behind the wheel of our hire car again, we made our way down Highway 99 towards Honolulu. After a short stop at Haleiwa for a burrito breakfast, we arrived back at the airport and it was with some relief that I handed the car keys back to the lovely Megan. Yes, car still intact and in the same condition as when we started out - phew! We caught the airport shuttle into the city and were really excited to see our new home for the week.
Our apartment at the Iliaki is fantastic. Just small with one bedroom but absolutely everything we could possibly need including a full kitchen and balcony (lanai) with the most amazing viws. (I am still having problems attaching photos to my blog, so I will post the photos on Facebook - sorry!!)
We can see the ocean from two angles and right next door is a lagoon where people canoe, paddleboard and of course, swim.
We unpacked and settled in pretty quickly and then went for a walk to the local supermarket to stock the kitchen (I plan to do my last lot of cooking for the next few weeks). It is amazing how inspired you get when you have a brand new luxury kitchen to create in!!
The rest of the day was spent looking around locally and getting oriented. Pretty relaxed. Made contact with 'the groom' who sounded like he was well into celebrating!!!
Today was fantastic - so much fun. We were up early (well for me anyway) and caught the 'Big Red Bus' out the front of the apartments. The bus is a double-decker and one of those 'hop on and off buses'. We went straight up the stairs and really enjoyed the views as we drove around. Our first stop was the Ala Moana Shopping Centre. Did not spend too much time there as we will be back tomorrow. Walked a couple of blocks down to Walmart. Now I know there are heaps of jokes (and hilarious photos/videos) from Walmart but the prices are incredible and that is good enough for me!!! We bought 8 pairs of shoes/sandals/thongs between us. Plus heaps of clothes as well (Kristen you would have been so proud of me!!) Walked back to the bus stop and jumped on again. We did the rest of the circuit and stopped of at Hilo Hatties. This is another clothing and souvenir store which is iconic in Honolulu and I managed to pick up some more clothes and a couple of things to send back home.
Back on the bus and we finally made it back to the apartment complex, laden with bags and with aching feet!!! Great fun unpacking everything though and admiring our purchases. We decided to stay in for dinner. All the young ones were meeting up for a girls/guys pub crawl. I did not want to cramp their style by tagging along. Luckily for us we had entertainment practically at our fingertips.
The building next door is the Hawaiian Hilton and they regularly have a luau on their terrtce rooftop. Tonight was one such occasion, so we sat on our lanai, ate our dinner and listened to the music and watched the hula girls, fire dancers and everything else. It was fantastic entertainment and all for free!!
Tomorrow we are planning some more shopping!! Only three more sleeps till the wedding. Hope you are all well and happy. xxx
Friday, May 18, 2012
North Shore
Aloha
The North Shore is a truly beauiful part of the world. It has been so relaxing here and the perfect way to start our holiday.
Wednesday we took it pretty easy. Woke up quite late and dragged ourselves down to the Ola restaurant for lunch. This resort has about 10 different eating places and this one is right on the beach under a thatched roof. I started off with a Pina Colada ... a very good idea and what will be the first of many I think. Lunch was sliders. These were three medium size hamburgers (filled with beef, pork and fish). The slider has meat that has been cooked and shredded and the 'slider' is a reference to how the meat is shredded (the fork slides over the meat to pull bits off). It came with a huge pile of fries. Thank goodness we only bought one serve to share!!
The afternoon was spent by the pool. I love water and swimming so I was in heaven. I think I was in the water for about three hours. I did not want to get out. There were quite a few people on lounges by the pool but the water was pretty much left to me and a handful of others. Did a lot of my water aerobic exercises and just floated around enjoying the sunshine. Russ set himself up on a lounge and 'read' the paper (I think there was more snoozing going on than reading!!!). That night he went to a talk by a guy called Ricky Grigg, who is a professor of oceanography at the University of Hawaii, and had been around when the 'surf culture' was just starting. Apparently, he was really interesting and Russ had a great time.
Thursday morning we were up and out early (well actually, earlier may be more accurate!!). Drove down to Sunset beach and checked out the scenery - gorgeous. We then had lunch at a roadside prawn farm. Now this may sound a bit dodgy but all along the coast are prawn farms and they have kitchens set up out the front where you can buy cooked prawns straight out of the water. We ate a huge pile of garlic butter prawns with rice and finished off with a massive shaved ice. Bliss
Last night was spent at the Hang Ten bar where we had dinner and watched a presentation by some Tongan drummers and fire sword dancers. Spectacula, especially with the backdrop of the setting sun. Oh yes, this life is really hard to take.
So .. a few things I have observed so far:
The people here are so damn beautiful. The women are so gorgeous that at one stage I did comment that it was a shame that I wasn't gay!!! Russ is VERY glad he has reflective aviator sunglasses (!!!).
The food servings are huge as we expected, but it is still pretty easy to find reasonably healthy things to eat. No-one forces you to eat the piles of fries!!! Sharing one meal between the two of us is plenty (great way to save money).
TV is great ... Discovering lots of new shows as well as some favourites from home (YAY ... Judge Judy). Some of the ads are really funny. For a country that thinks saying 'toilet' is inappropriate, they ads for 'toilet paper' are VERY descriptive!!!
Off now to enjoy our Friday, our last full day here. Will be back once we are in Waikiki. Thanks for reading xxx
The North Shore is a truly beauiful part of the world. It has been so relaxing here and the perfect way to start our holiday.
Wednesday we took it pretty easy. Woke up quite late and dragged ourselves down to the Ola restaurant for lunch. This resort has about 10 different eating places and this one is right on the beach under a thatched roof. I started off with a Pina Colada ... a very good idea and what will be the first of many I think. Lunch was sliders. These were three medium size hamburgers (filled with beef, pork and fish). The slider has meat that has been cooked and shredded and the 'slider' is a reference to how the meat is shredded (the fork slides over the meat to pull bits off). It came with a huge pile of fries. Thank goodness we only bought one serve to share!!
The afternoon was spent by the pool. I love water and swimming so I was in heaven. I think I was in the water for about three hours. I did not want to get out. There were quite a few people on lounges by the pool but the water was pretty much left to me and a handful of others. Did a lot of my water aerobic exercises and just floated around enjoying the sunshine. Russ set himself up on a lounge and 'read' the paper (I think there was more snoozing going on than reading!!!). That night he went to a talk by a guy called Ricky Grigg, who is a professor of oceanography at the University of Hawaii, and had been around when the 'surf culture' was just starting. Apparently, he was really interesting and Russ had a great time.
Thursday morning we were up and out early (well actually, earlier may be more accurate!!). Drove down to Sunset beach and checked out the scenery - gorgeous. We then had lunch at a roadside prawn farm. Now this may sound a bit dodgy but all along the coast are prawn farms and they have kitchens set up out the front where you can buy cooked prawns straight out of the water. We ate a huge pile of garlic butter prawns with rice and finished off with a massive shaved ice. Bliss
Last night was spent at the Hang Ten bar where we had dinner and watched a presentation by some Tongan drummers and fire sword dancers. Spectacula, especially with the backdrop of the setting sun. Oh yes, this life is really hard to take.
So .. a few things I have observed so far:
The people here are so damn beautiful. The women are so gorgeous that at one stage I did comment that it was a shame that I wasn't gay!!! Russ is VERY glad he has reflective aviator sunglasses (!!!).
The food servings are huge as we expected, but it is still pretty easy to find reasonably healthy things to eat. No-one forces you to eat the piles of fries!!! Sharing one meal between the two of us is plenty (great way to save money).
TV is great ... Discovering lots of new shows as well as some favourites from home (YAY ... Judge Judy). Some of the ads are really funny. For a country that thinks saying 'toilet' is inappropriate, they ads for 'toilet paper' are VERY descriptive!!!
Off now to enjoy our Friday, our last full day here. Will be back once we are in Waikiki. Thanks for reading xxx
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Aloha
What an incredible 30 hours we have had.
Flight to Sydney left on time and we filled in the time at the international airport with browsing through duty free shopping. Didn't buy anything but I do have a few things on the radar for later.
I am an absolute convert to Business class travel. It is fabulous!! We were in the first row of seats so had heaps of room. Before we even took off we were sipping champagne and watching 'the poor people' boarding. What fun!!! Straight after take off (about 30 minutes late) we were given 'comfort packs' with pillows, blankets, socks and toiletries and hot towels to refresh us. Then we were invited to choose our meals and handed iPads for all our entertainment needs (movies, tv shows, music, videos, games etc). The rest of our economy flights are going to be such a comedown!!!
I must admit that by the end of the flight I was pretty much over it. Not sure how peope who travel all the time manage it!
The arrival through customs and immigration was very smooth and easy. These people certainly know all about customer service. So friendly, weloming and efficient. Our immigration agent, Officer Ben, was delicious. Big, black and utterly gorgeous. I was ready to migrate permanently, then and there.
Found our shuttle bus easily, picked up our hire car (I love the number plates with the rainbow)and we hit the road.
Driving on the wrong side of the car and on the wrong side of the road is surprisingly easier than I thought. Afer turning on the windscreen wipers instead of the indicators a few times and hitting the door instead of the gear stick a a few more times, it just becomes as automatic as driving at home. The only time I was thrown slightly was the first few turns onto the 'wrong' side of the road. Just follow the traffic and you don't go too far wrong.
We headed out of the airport and towards the North Shore. I was pretty tired after 48 hours without sleep (I couldn't
sleep the night before we left - nerves) so we decided to stop for brunch. Totally cool place called Breakaway which had the whole thatched huts, surfboards on the roof and surfie decor. Delicious Eggs Benedict for me and sunny-side up for Russ. Hash browns here are a whole new thing - totally delicious and way better than what Maccas call hash browns.
Fortified we hit the road again and found Waimea Bay - home of surfing. Russ was in total heaven to actually be there. It is the wrong time of the year for big surf, but the beach is just beautiful. Stayed there for ages (I may have even had forty winks lying on the beach). A little further on was Sunset Beach another iconic surf beach. Finally we arrived at Turtle Bay resort. Words almost fail me (unusual I know!!). It is just stunning and vast. (More exploring and info tomorrow).
Checked in early and once I saw that king size bed .... that was it for me. I slept for a few hours and now feel like my old self. Long shower to wash away the travel grime and some dinner.
I apologize for the lack of photos. Having problems uploading them to the blog. I will work on it and hopefully tomorrow with have some images for you. Catch you then xxx
Flight to Sydney left on time and we filled in the time at the international airport with browsing through duty free shopping. Didn't buy anything but I do have a few things on the radar for later.
I am an absolute convert to Business class travel. It is fabulous!! We were in the first row of seats so had heaps of room. Before we even took off we were sipping champagne and watching 'the poor people' boarding. What fun!!! Straight after take off (about 30 minutes late) we were given 'comfort packs' with pillows, blankets, socks and toiletries and hot towels to refresh us. Then we were invited to choose our meals and handed iPads for all our entertainment needs (movies, tv shows, music, videos, games etc). The rest of our economy flights are going to be such a comedown!!!
I must admit that by the end of the flight I was pretty much over it. Not sure how peope who travel all the time manage it!
The arrival through customs and immigration was very smooth and easy. These people certainly know all about customer service. So friendly, weloming and efficient. Our immigration agent, Officer Ben, was delicious. Big, black and utterly gorgeous. I was ready to migrate permanently, then and there.
Found our shuttle bus easily, picked up our hire car (I love the number plates with the rainbow)and we hit the road.
Driving on the wrong side of the car and on the wrong side of the road is surprisingly easier than I thought. Afer turning on the windscreen wipers instead of the indicators a few times and hitting the door instead of the gear stick a a few more times, it just becomes as automatic as driving at home. The only time I was thrown slightly was the first few turns onto the 'wrong' side of the road. Just follow the traffic and you don't go too far wrong.
We headed out of the airport and towards the North Shore. I was pretty tired after 48 hours without sleep (I couldn't
sleep the night before we left - nerves) so we decided to stop for brunch. Totally cool place called Breakaway which had the whole thatched huts, surfboards on the roof and surfie decor. Delicious Eggs Benedict for me and sunny-side up for Russ. Hash browns here are a whole new thing - totally delicious and way better than what Maccas call hash browns.
Fortified we hit the road again and found Waimea Bay - home of surfing. Russ was in total heaven to actually be there. It is the wrong time of the year for big surf, but the beach is just beautiful. Stayed there for ages (I may have even had forty winks lying on the beach). A little further on was Sunset Beach another iconic surf beach. Finally we arrived at Turtle Bay resort. Words almost fail me (unusual I know!!). It is just stunning and vast. (More exploring and info tomorrow).
Checked in early and once I saw that king size bed .... that was it for me. I slept for a few hours and now feel like my old self. Long shower to wash away the travel grime and some dinner.
I apologize for the lack of photos. Having problems uploading them to the blog. I will work on it and hopefully tomorrow with have some images for you. Catch you then xxx
Monday, May 14, 2012
On Our Way
Well the big day is finally here.
In the past I have to admit I have not been the most organised of travellers. I leave packing to the last minute, usually forget something and leave home in a panic. Well, not this time. I am writing this as I sit on the couch, calm and completely organised.
Our bags are packed (hopefully with everything we will need) and most amazingly, they are both WELL under the allocated baggage allowance. This is nothing short of a miracle considering 3 years ago when we went on our cruise, I left Melbourne already 10 kg over weight (the bags of course ... I was waaaaaay more over weight than that!). When we returned home I think I was nearly 20kg over.
It cost us a fortune and I vowed there and then that I would never overpack again!
So our fur babies are at the cattery (quite a few tears shed over that one), the house is spotless, fridge empty and I think everything has been crossed off the 'to do' list.
We have a fairly long day ahead of us. We leave Melbourne at 13:35 and fly to Sydney. The flight to Honolulu leaves there are 18:00 and arrives at 8:45am TODAY!!! I really struggle to get my head around the whole time change thing. I mean, I understand how and why it happens but it just seems very weird arriving at a place before you have left home.
The big excitement for today is that we have an up-grade to Business Class for the flight to Hawaii. I picked up a very cheap deal for this and believe me, I cannot wait to experience life at the pointy end of the plane!!! Hope I don't disgrace myself!
Once we arrive in Honolulu, we pick up a hire car for the drive to the North Shore and Turtle Bay Resort. I am doing the driving (because I am a shocking navigator) so I hope I don't cause any accidents or international incidents!!!
So here we go ........ see you in Hawaii. xx
In the past I have to admit I have not been the most organised of travellers. I leave packing to the last minute, usually forget something and leave home in a panic. Well, not this time. I am writing this as I sit on the couch, calm and completely organised.
Our bags are packed (hopefully with everything we will need) and most amazingly, they are both WELL under the allocated baggage allowance. This is nothing short of a miracle considering 3 years ago when we went on our cruise, I left Melbourne already 10 kg over weight (the bags of course ... I was waaaaaay more over weight than that!). When we returned home I think I was nearly 20kg over.
It cost us a fortune and I vowed there and then that I would never overpack again!
So our fur babies are at the cattery (quite a few tears shed over that one), the house is spotless, fridge empty and I think everything has been crossed off the 'to do' list.
We have a fairly long day ahead of us. We leave Melbourne at 13:35 and fly to Sydney. The flight to Honolulu leaves there are 18:00 and arrives at 8:45am TODAY!!! I really struggle to get my head around the whole time change thing. I mean, I understand how and why it happens but it just seems very weird arriving at a place before you have left home.
The big excitement for today is that we have an up-grade to Business Class for the flight to Hawaii. I picked up a very cheap deal for this and believe me, I cannot wait to experience life at the pointy end of the plane!!! Hope I don't disgrace myself!
Once we arrive in Honolulu, we pick up a hire car for the drive to the North Shore and Turtle Bay Resort. I am doing the driving (because I am a shocking navigator) so I hope I don't cause any accidents or international incidents!!!
So here we go ........ see you in Hawaii. xx
Friday, May 11, 2012
The Final Countdown
As I write this we have about 70 hours to go before take-off. We have been planning and saving for the past 18 months and it is hard to comprehend that our dream trip is actually going to happen. I am not sure if it will seem more real on take-off, or perhaps it will take until we land in Honolulu?
The butterflies have well and truly settled in my stomach and if I think about what lies before us, it almost feels like my heart skips a beat.
Previously, I posted an itinerary, however there have been quite a few changes since then, so to keep you up to date here is the final edition.
Tues 15 May - Fly to Honolulu via Sydney - drive to North Shore
Sat 19 May - Move to Waikiki
Wed 23 May - Wedding day
Sat 26 May - Fly to Los Angeles
Mon 28 May - Bus to Santa Barbara - Beach Boys concert
Tues 29 May - Bus to LA
Fri 1 June - Fly to Las Vegas
Sun 3 June - Helicopter flight over Grand Canyon
Wed 6 June - Fly to LA / drive to Anaheim
Thurs 7 & Fri 8 - Disneyland
Sat 9 - Drive to San Diego
Mon 11 June - Drive to Monteray
Tues 12 June - Drive to San Francisco
Wed 13 June - Alcatraz tour
Thurs 14 June - Baseball game
Sat 16 June - Train to Seattle
Sun 17 June - Arrive in Seattle
Tues 19 & Wed 20 June - Train to Chicago
Thurs 21 June - Arrive in Chicago
Sun 24 June - Train to Washington
Thurs 28 June - Train to Philadelphia
Fri 29 June - Train to Montreal
Tues 3 July - Train to New York
Friday 6 July - Day trip to Niagara Falls
Tues 10 July - Fly to LA
Wed 11 July - Fly to Melbourne
Fri 13 June - Arrive home
Still with me? Well done!
So obviously the vast amount of the planning and organizing is done. The hardest part has been getting myself ready - - facial, nails, pedicure, hair cut and color etc etc etc! Being a girl is not easy!!! (For any beauty treatments I highly recommend Bryony from B4 Beauty in Romsey. For fabulous hair see Michelle at Mishka Hairdressing in Riddells Creek) Clothes are organised thanks to some nifty alterations by a local dressmaker. I have a plastic bag full of chargers and cords for iPad, iPods, cameras, phones and goodness knows what!!! Yep, I think I have thought of everything. Mind you, I said that the last time we went overseas and then forgot the passports. I have promised friends that they will be chained around my neck this time!
So now you are updated. My next post will probably be just before we take off. Thanks for reading and drop in again soon.
PS: Welcome to my blog Sharyn and Sarah xx
The butterflies have well and truly settled in my stomach and if I think about what lies before us, it almost feels like my heart skips a beat.
Previously, I posted an itinerary, however there have been quite a few changes since then, so to keep you up to date here is the final edition.
Tues 15 May - Fly to Honolulu via Sydney - drive to North Shore
Sat 19 May - Move to Waikiki
Wed 23 May - Wedding day
Sat 26 May - Fly to Los Angeles
Mon 28 May - Bus to Santa Barbara - Beach Boys concert
Tues 29 May - Bus to LA
Fri 1 June - Fly to Las Vegas
Sun 3 June - Helicopter flight over Grand Canyon
Wed 6 June - Fly to LA / drive to Anaheim
Thurs 7 & Fri 8 - Disneyland
Sat 9 - Drive to San Diego
Mon 11 June - Drive to Monteray
Tues 12 June - Drive to San Francisco
Wed 13 June - Alcatraz tour
Thurs 14 June - Baseball game
Sat 16 June - Train to Seattle
Sun 17 June - Arrive in Seattle
Tues 19 & Wed 20 June - Train to Chicago
Thurs 21 June - Arrive in Chicago
Sun 24 June - Train to Washington
Thurs 28 June - Train to Philadelphia
Fri 29 June - Train to Montreal
Tues 3 July - Train to New York
Friday 6 July - Day trip to Niagara Falls
Tues 10 July - Fly to LA
Wed 11 July - Fly to Melbourne
Fri 13 June - Arrive home
Still with me? Well done!
So obviously the vast amount of the planning and organizing is done. The hardest part has been getting myself ready - - facial, nails, pedicure, hair cut and color etc etc etc! Being a girl is not easy!!! (For any beauty treatments I highly recommend Bryony from B4 Beauty in Romsey. For fabulous hair see Michelle at Mishka Hairdressing in Riddells Creek) Clothes are organised thanks to some nifty alterations by a local dressmaker. I have a plastic bag full of chargers and cords for iPad, iPods, cameras, phones and goodness knows what!!! Yep, I think I have thought of everything. Mind you, I said that the last time we went overseas and then forgot the passports. I have promised friends that they will be chained around my neck this time!
So now you are updated. My next post will probably be just before we take off. Thanks for reading and drop in again soon.
PS: Welcome to my blog Sharyn and Sarah xx
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Buck's Party Fun
I am very pleased to report that everyone, including the groom, survived the Buck's Party, injury free.
I had been a bit nervous because the groom-to-be has been the instigator of many buck's party (and other) pranks and there were many threats that revenge was about the be swift and severe. However, despite some serious drinking and severe hangover symptoms, everyone seemed to have a great time.
The theme for the big event was 'Top Gun'. The groom and his mates have been long-time fans of the movie and it was the prefect choice. The invitation was cleverly done by video which combined clips from the movie and photos of the groom.
Requested dress for the day was blue jeans and a white t-shirt to fit in with the theme and from the photo below you can see that everyone joined in with great enthusiasm. Total roll-call was 57 guys of varying ages. There were many work colleagues of the groom, as well as long-time school friends. A lovely testament to the popularity of my wonderful eldest son. My hubby and second son both attended, so I had eyewitness reports as well as Facebook posts during the day.
The day started at one of the guy's homes, where bacon and eggs rolls were served by a gorgeous young lady who seemed to forgetten to put her top on at the last moment. Nevertheless, she managed to send all the boys off on their adventures with full tummies (and goggle eyes!!!). Equipped with special insignias sprayed on their t-shirts, personalised stubby holders and aviator sunglasses, the guys boarded the bus to a secret location.
The ended up at Barwon Heads, where an excited groom was sent up in a Japanese 'Kate' bomber for some aerobatic flying.
The rest of the party were able to watch the flying demonstration from the cliffs before they re-boarded the bus and headed for Ballan. On a property in the area, away from any neighbours, lunch was served, cricket and footy played, a fair amount of beer consumed and some 'entertainment' enjoyed.
Then back to the original house for pizza dinner, plenty more beer, even more 'entertainment' and a general good time. It was at this point that my 'reporters' left the party, so I am not sure exactly how the night ended up. I have not heard any reports of shaving, dying or tying anyone up. Probably best that I don't know. What I do know is that Michael has some wonderful friends who gave him a fitting send-off into married life. Huge thanks to each one of them.
I had been a bit nervous because the groom-to-be has been the instigator of many buck's party (and other) pranks and there were many threats that revenge was about the be swift and severe. However, despite some serious drinking and severe hangover symptoms, everyone seemed to have a great time.
The theme for the big event was 'Top Gun'. The groom and his mates have been long-time fans of the movie and it was the prefect choice. The invitation was cleverly done by video which combined clips from the movie and photos of the groom.
Requested dress for the day was blue jeans and a white t-shirt to fit in with the theme and from the photo below you can see that everyone joined in with great enthusiasm. Total roll-call was 57 guys of varying ages. There were many work colleagues of the groom, as well as long-time school friends. A lovely testament to the popularity of my wonderful eldest son. My hubby and second son both attended, so I had eyewitness reports as well as Facebook posts during the day.
The day started at one of the guy's homes, where bacon and eggs rolls were served by a gorgeous young lady who seemed to forgetten to put her top on at the last moment. Nevertheless, she managed to send all the boys off on their adventures with full tummies (and goggle eyes!!!). Equipped with special insignias sprayed on their t-shirts, personalised stubby holders and aviator sunglasses, the guys boarded the bus to a secret location.
The ended up at Barwon Heads, where an excited groom was sent up in a Japanese 'Kate' bomber for some aerobatic flying.
The rest of the party were able to watch the flying demonstration from the cliffs before they re-boarded the bus and headed for Ballan. On a property in the area, away from any neighbours, lunch was served, cricket and footy played, a fair amount of beer consumed and some 'entertainment' enjoyed.
Then back to the original house for pizza dinner, plenty more beer, even more 'entertainment' and a general good time. It was at this point that my 'reporters' left the party, so I am not sure exactly how the night ended up. I have not heard any reports of shaving, dying or tying anyone up. Probably best that I don't know. What I do know is that Michael has some wonderful friends who gave him a fitting send-off into married life. Huge thanks to each one of them.
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