Once again this year we went to the Australian Open. And once again, our photographer Jake has put together a high volume of female pictures. I have included only one so as not to bore you. This is of Justin Henin-Hardin. I think that her name anyways. Jake would know! Oh well, we had a great time. The highlight was Rachel and I getting into the Garnier World booth. Rach got a free hairdo and I got a mini facial. In addition we each got a big bag of full size products. Conditioner, lotion, shampoo, etc..... Once again, we'll be back next year!!!

Rachel & Maddie

Well, I couldn't bypass uploading pictures of Rachel and her first best friend, Maddy. These two are peas in a pod and have so much fun together. It reminds me so much of when I was their age and the fun I had with my friends. Maddy is already planning her trip to the states when she turns eighteen to visit Rachel.

Now Ben also has a good friend, Frank, who we absolutely love. Frank has a great laid back personality and is incredibly polite. We also like him because, since meeting Frank, Ben has suddenly become this kid who is organized at school and no longer gripes (for the most part) about homework. Jake and I are so lucky that the kids have made such great friends.

Echuca & Rutherglen

Over the Christmas holidays we took a trip to Northern Victoria to Echuca and Rutherglen. Echuca, which sits on the Murray River was once a booming port town. While there, we visited the famous penny arcade and took a cruise on a paddle boat. After Echica, we drove to Rutherglen to partake in winery touring. This region is known for its fortified wines. We had some wonderful ports and muscats. One of the days we were driven to the wineries in a Rolls Royce. Good planning on Jakes part. There is nothing better then having someone familiar with the area and wineries drive you all over!

Murray River

The Murray River is one of the largest rivers in Australia and while in Echuca we took a paddle boat ride on it. As you can see Rachel and Ben even got to drive it and received official certificates. This was so much fun as there were only three other people on the boat when we took the ride. So, the kids got to blow horn and make announcements as to where we were. I think the crew had as much fun as the kids!!!

Penny Arcade in Echuca