Dinner in Canberra

 We went out for our first dinner out in Canberra and we were very pleasantly surprised how many options there were and how good the restaurants were. There were heaps of people around and quite a few things to see like the mining capsule from the 2010 Chilean mine accident where 33 miners were trapped underground for 70 days. It was a sombre reminder of how easily things can go wrong but when people work together and have some luck this accident had a positive ending. We ended up having a delicious Japanese dinner which was done with an interesting modern take.

Visiting old parliament house

 We walked over towards the old parliament house as well since they are fairly close together and facing each other. The girls got to run along the grass and look at some of the memorials. At first EV was grumpy because she didn't get her way, but eventually everyone else's good mood rubbed off on her and she laughed too.

At the new parliament house

 We didn't waste time and headed to the new parliament house to take a look and soak in all the democracy. The girls loved it, especially being able to run on the grass up the side of the building. It was really fun but then EV got upset when she couldn't quite do something at the fountain. She got over it though.

Arriving in Canberra

 We arrived in Canberra a little earlier and visited a local park before we could check in. The girls needed to get some energy out after 3 hours in the car. They met some local children and made use of the local landscape to have a bit of fun. They continued playing in the yard while we unpacked. They played handball and ate some of the perfectly ripe plums which made for a nice introduction to the place.

Road trip to Canberra

 We took a road trip to Canberra to see the nation's capital. We had a bit of trouble with our car so we hired one which made the trip a bit more exciting. The girls were quite tired, but after stopping for lunch based on SV's recommendation we all had much more energy.

Best little buddies

 EV and Luna are getting to be such good little buddies. TV took the two of them for a little walk along the river. They found a dog park for them to play in, and later a playground too. They got both places all to themselves so they could play and explore. They had a such a great time together. It made it so much harder for them to say good bye as we had to drop Luna off with her grandparents.

Dinner and sparkles

 We had a poolside dinner after all that swimming. After dinner the girls got to play with some sparklers which KT originally got for Xmas. All the girls actually played with the sparklers this time, even SV who was quite apprehensive last time.