The Big 4-0

Yesterday was Lara's 40th birthday. All she wanted to do for her birthday was to sit in the Botanic Gardens, overlooking the Opera House and feast on the delights of Adriano Zumbo. Lars was a bit taken with his tasty looking treats when she saw them on Master Chef. So that was the main aim of the day.

We jumped on bus 155 from just outside the caravan park and it snaked its way to Manly. We had a fantastic buffet breakfast at the Manly Novotel to start proceedings. As always, we enjoyed our Novotel experience. William won the day for the most impressive "plating up" when he returned from the buffet with bits and pieces of just about everything. Most of which he didn't actually eat.

William and Gracie also got to sit in a stretch Hummer. We then wandered along the Esplanade and watched some beach volley ball before making our way to Zumbo's tiny shop. We each made a selection. They were boxed up and we then headed for the Ferry. Within moments of taking our seats, we couldn't find Gracie. Mild panic set in and Lara and I rushed everywhere to try and find her. She was eventually located lying happily one deck down watching the passengers boarding. This was a little bit of drama we didn't need.

After arriving at Circular Quay, we headed for the gardens and found a beautiful spot overlooking the Opera House. This was a similar spot to where we sat when we last travelled in the pre-kids era. This time, things were not quite so relaxing. It was, however, lots of fun. Gracie's selection had a drop or two of something in it. I feared she would start swearing and telling rude jokes. She only had a taste and was then happy tasting everyone else's.

The kids climbed trees and mucked around. We then had a walk around the Opera House (inside and out) before getting back on the Ferry. A quick stock-up at Aldi in Manly and then back to Narrabeen. At about 6.00 pm we set out on our scooters to find somewhere for a special birthday tea. We eventually found a small fish and chip shop. We ordered up and ate on the step out the front. It was on a major road and the traffic was whizzing past. Not exactly what I had invisaged for a flashy birthday tea. Lara seemed content. The food was very good.

A quick play at a park on the way home and then everyone went to bed early.

It was a day to remember.