South Coast, NSW

We recently had a weekend away to see our friends on the South Coast, NSW, about 3.5 hour drive from Sydney.  We hadn't been to their house since MissE was 8 weeks old (her first trip!) and their eldest was celebrating his Christening.  We were all very much looking forward to getting away from Sydney, and enjoying a relaxing weekend with good friends.   Cranium (US Edition) and Jim (Bean) were packed!

Unfortunately our 3.5 hour drive took close to 5 hours due to a truck fire which had us at a stand still for over an hour.  It was so much fun with a 3 year old who doesn't stop talking and a hungry 8 month old who couldn't get crackers in his mouth fast enough!  We stopped in Berry, NSW for lunch which is this gorgeous rustic town full of delicious organic cafes, bakeries and antique shops.  I also made us stop on the way back to Sydney too but more on that later.  And we finally reached our destination!

The first order of business was meeting the B Family's newest additions: 3 alpacas!

Dot (mama), Mars (male) and the baby Galahad

Eden loved the alpacas!  He would yell at them and giggle
when they said "Mmm".

MissE also went on a tractor ride

After a good night's sleep, and enjoying the view of the wild kangaroos at breakfast, we spent the morning at Mollymook Beach while waiting for our other friends (it was a full house!)

Getting our toes wet at Mollymook Beach

Mr.E trying surfing with Wills lending a hand

MissE surfing

Writing her name in the sand

Stomping sand castles with L

The party started that afternoon with 6 children under 4!  Luckily there was so much to do at the B's: trampoline, swing set, a jumping castle, feeding alpacas, tractor rides and roasting marshmallows over a bonfire (yes Mr.H and I made s'mores although they still don't taste right without graham crackers.  I will have to try a homemade recipe).

MissE with B1 and B2 in front of the bonfire

It was amazing we got all 6 to sleep with time for the adults to play 2 games of Cranium!

The next morning, we headed back to Mollymook Beach.  It just so happened that there was a 2.3k open water.  While I considered doing it, I haven't been in the pool in a while thanks to conflicting bedtime and practice.  Maybe next year as they call this swim, Mollymook golf course reef, given it's calm, clear conditions and wafting weeds.

MissE and L boogie boarding

 Unfortunately, it was time to head home.  Mr.E kept the backseat (and mama) entertained with games of peek-a-boo until we again reached Berry.  This time we stopped at The Famous Berry Donut Van.  Reviews of the Donut Van said their "donuts will change your life".  Yep.  It was that good.  They do not cook your donut until you order but the short wait is well worth the piping hot, fresh donuts!