Christmas 2011

We've had a thoroughly enjoyable Christmas season.  Even Dave's office party was more fun than usual, with an 80s theme suiting him down to a tee (we call the look Doogie Howser meets Don Johnson).  And this year we were still in Sydney for the staff kids' Christmas party, which featured face painting, craft, a visit from Santa and lots of lollies (not to mention food and alcohol for the adults).

Office party - 80s style

Office kids' Christmas party

Even the parents were catered for

The boys have also seen Santa at David Jones (along with the big tree in Martin Place), been to the Manly Carols event (a fairly reserved response from James but Charlie was  and at the Manly ex-pats group party held at nearby North Harbour reserve (although Charlie was a bit dubious as to whether this Santa was the real one!)

The giant tree in Martin Place (with cousin Kate)

Charlie had a wonderful time at the Manly Carols

James was a little more reserved (but did do a spot of dancing)

Charlie with Tessa the Elf (his Pre-school teacher) 

Santa at the ex-pats Christmas party

There have also been street parties at both Cecil Street and Gourlay Ave (Flick the catalyst for both) and we're pleased to report that the buyers of our place seem to be settling in happily.

Cecil Street Christmas Party

Gourlay Ave Christmas Party

Susan and Ken stayed with us over the break making it an enjoyable family Christmas, and after a horror start to summer the sun came out (though it has remained relatively cool) and we were able to enjoy a few trips to the beach with them and other friends including Alastair, Kerry and daughter Arielle; and Siobhan, Mark and sons Christian and Samuel. Below are some super photos taken by Alastair on his SLR.  (We did have the kids' swimmers but they didn't want to wear them!)

We were invited to nearby friends for a Christmas Eve party, which wore out the kids and despite their extreme levels of excitement our start the next day was about normal time.  Despite the small fireplace, Santa obviously managed to squeeze down and had polished off the food and tea we'd left out.  I guess Rudolf ate the carrot.  The presents were a hit, particularly Charlie's Transformers, Jamie's Thomas train set (both acquired by Flick in a literal fire sale for <20% of retail!) and the fantastic trampoline from Bidey, Pamps, Granny and Granddad.  Flick cooked up waffles for breakfast, a fabulous ham for lunch and a huge dessert selection.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care