Time For Us To Fly

     We're on the move again.  This time we're going down and over, over to Mosman that is.  We have the keys to the house, the furniture has been delivered, and all appliances are there minus a dryer and the permanent fridge (loaner for now).  We got word that our shipment made it through customs except for Chris's golf clubs, which were presumably too dirty to be allowed in the country as is.  I think that's a sign!  They may hold on to them, clean them and charge us a crazy fee, or do something else.  Anyhow, the rest of the stuff should arrive on Friday so we can move in and not have to rent sheets, kitchen stuff, etc.  When we get there, I'll take more photos and post them.




Chris took this photo of a flock of cockatoos outside the house while awaiting furniture delivery.


     We've been doing some shopping for various items and it is a similar, yet different experience.  The pet stores here actually have kittens and puppies in them, lots.  I haven't seen that in the US in a long time.  We've seen "Shavaliers" (cross between a Shih Tzu and a Cavalier), "Bugs" (what they call puggles here), and "Cavaloodles."  Of course, the kids in their dog-deprived state want to take them all home.  To our frustration, stores here close at 5:30 every day except Thursday - even the malls and other major shopping areas.  Seems strange to me in such a large metropolitan area.  We knew prices here would be high, and they are!  Surprisingly though, some things really aren't that different, such as many groceries and some basic toiletry stuff.  However, it can be shocking.  A shampoo that costs $7 at home is about $15 here, a glazed Krispy Kreme doughnut is $3.00 here, and small bottled drinks can easily be $5.  It's movie theater pricing everywhere! 




This cool light system in a parking garage helps you see where the empty spaces are (green) when looking for a spot.  Why don't we have this in the US?  Maybe we do and I've just never seen it...


     We are happy that Jackson is getting attention from his dog walkers/visitors this week.  They post photos every time they visit and they can be seen at http://www.dogwalks.com.au/ (look under Photo Galleries).  Only 20 more days to go.

     We've been down at Darling Harbor, a large pedestrian, tourist, and recreational area just west of the central business district several evenings.  There are some unique fountains that the kids have enjoyed.  We're making sure to enjoy this area before we leave on Friday.




Sydney skyline looking east from Darling Harbor. 

Spiral Fountain at Darling Harbor.

     We're acutely aware that we're missing the UNC-Dook game in a few hours. :-(  Go Heels!!