Coogee, W.A.

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18 September - 8 November 2011

Alex spent the rest of Septmeber and October working and I did the usual thing with the boys - bike rides, playgrounds, beach etc. Alex was clocking up a lot of hours at work with the preparations for CHOGM under way with his work building the exhibition and display side of things.

During this time at Coogee, we met more young people in the caravan park (mostly short term holiday makers) and became friendly with other longer term people.

We celebrated Reef's 5th birthday, decorating the camper and annex with streamers, balloons, lolly bags and presents. It's hard to believe he is now school age and due to start school in a few months. How the time really has flown! He has really blossomed on this trip and come out of his shell with other kids. Some of his remarks have completely blown us away. One conversation that comes to mind:

Reef: "Mum, can you buy me something at the shops?"

Belle: "We can't buy lunch all the time Reef"

Reef: "Ohh why not? Please, mum?"

Belle: "Because if we bought lunch all the time we would have to work all the time to pay for it and then dad and I wouldn't get to spend as much time with you and Osc. Would you rather us buy things for you all the time or be able to spend time with you on our big trip?"

Reef: "Ok, I'll just have a sandwich mum. I want to spend time with you and dad."

Him and Oscar are still the best of friends, although not without their sibling rivalry. They're so different but share a special bond which is so nice to witness.

After Reef's birthday we all had something very special to look forward to but seeing as I was the only one let in on the secret, I had to discreetly revel in my excitement all by myself. James and Lyndal were coming to visit us and surprise Alex and the boys. I found out a few weeks prior and had to bite my lip at times and the day of their arrival I think Alex thought I was losing the plot. I had all this food prepared (way too much for 2 adults and 2 children) and things that we wouldn't usually have. The 3 boys thought we were going bowling but instead James and Lynna arrived and casually walked into our camper and said g'day to Alex. Alex was totally shocked and I don't think he could really believe it was James at the end of the greeting!

They spent 2 weekends with us and it was so great to catch up. It was a very relaxed and chilled out get together and it was so good to see Reef and Oscar spending time with them. We went to the beach and watched the sunset over some drinks and nibbles, went into Fremantle Markets and Fishing Boat Harbour and relaxed in the park. Until next time.....possibly Darwin?...

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Comments

[Chris and Nikki]

How adorable.