Bridgeport

Chris survived the tough terrain, altitude, exhaustion, rain, cold river crossings, eating goat (and learning how to slaughter one) during his mountain survival training in Bridgeport.

Last few pics from Oz

Early morning fog in the valley across from the Mifflin house...then below, after it cleared.

Andrew's long neck turtles...

Jack gets a very special Coke with the all important umbrella...

Ben, our friendly customs agent/ second cousin

It was hard saying goodbye to everyone...and returning to all our responsibilities here. We really appreciate John and Laurel for hosting us, lending us their car, and a plethora of other acts of generosity. Thanks to Nick & Belinda for showing us around and taking so many great photos. And thanks to all of our family and friends that made us feel welcome Down Under! The kids are especially grateful for all the great clothes, food & treats they got while on holiday. We really had a fantastic vacation! Thanks everyone!

This big guy was waiting for us at home

Homebush, Oplympic Aquatic Center

These pictures were taken after all the fun...all dried off. The kids... no... we all enjoyed swimming at the Olympic pool where Sydney hosted the 2000 Olympics. Of course all the fun stuff was added in afterwards. The kids favorite part was a whirlpool that pulled them along a current. My favorite part was squeezing in a little exercise by swimming a quick 1600m (which I suppose was in the "cool-down pool"- the official pool was off limits) before taking a rest in the sauna. Which is good, because we have been really well fed over here!

Blowhole at Kiama

Yep, those two are definitely related...

It was difficult trying to get the timing right for this video with my little camera (and it's dying battery)....and yes, that's Jack chanting, "We want blow! We want blow!" He loved it so much he said he wanted to sleep there next to the blowhole.

Boydtown

Before heading up to the tower, we stopped in at Boyd's former residence for some Devonshire tea.



Chris spotted this wallaby in the brush alongside the trail.

Our own personal professional photographer, Belinda.

Boyd Tower-a stone spotting tower used to look for whales

These rocks are supposed to be 36 million years old...