A Flying Visit from Family

Last weekend was a very special one for our family.

We had a visit from my sister (Aunty Janelle) and one of her sons (cousin Benny). They flew in from Brisbane on Friday morning, and flew out again on Sunday night.

The main purpose of their visit was to meet baby Lucinda.

Lucinda enjoying a cuddle with big cousin Benny

Lucinda smiling at Aunty Janelle

But we managed to squeeze in a lot more than just that!

Shopping (at Westfield Doncaster, DFO South Wharf, Parenthood and Harbour Town), Sabbath school, a play and picnic at Hay's Paddock adventure playground, dinner out in North Carlton, lunch at Southgate, browsing the Arts Centre market, riding a tram (twice), playing in the snow (man-made), a brisk walk through the CBD ... and lots of games and chats.

Grace was very excited to have Benny visit, and enjoyed lots of running around and playing games with him. I enjoyed how well she slept at night after all the extra activity!

Grace and Benny watching a DVD together

Melbourne put on some beautiful, warm (17 degrees) and sunny weather on both days, which meant we could enjoy a lot of time outdoors.

Grace playing at Hay's Paddock

Charlotte enjoying her picnic afternoon tea

Aunty Janelle staying warm in the sun

It is a long time since we went out to a restaurant for dinner on Saturday night, but we chose a family friendly pizza and pasta place, and it all went quite smoothly. Rainbow ice cream for entree and pasta scattered over the floor is par for the course, but everyone was happy and we were in like company.

On Sunday it was great to be in the city and experience a truly Melbourne day. We learnt that it is best to catch the City Circle tram from the other side of the road at busy times (in order to actually get on it), and that walking back through the city is actually quicker than the tram anyway!

Enjoying lunch by the Yarra at Southgate

Benny playing in the snow at Harbour Town

We had a fun and memorable weekend, and were sorry to see our visitors leave.

Janelle did mention making a weekend in Melbourne with one of her kids an annual event, and I really hope she does. We're looking forward to the next one already!