Farewell, Sydney.

Taken as we left Sydney on Tuesday, February 9th.

Kukaburro.

at the Toronga Zoo.

Art.

This is a display outside of Sydney Town Hall.

Inside the Opera House.

Rain all day = indoor tour and shopping.  This is one of seven performance areas at the Opera House set up for tonight's Beach Boys concert.

Kangaroos and Koalas.

Last time we were in Australia, we were fortunate enough to see some kangaroos in their natural habitat - hanging out in a field near the road.  They weren't close enough to get good pictures, but it was still something I was happy I was able to experience.  That same trip we went to a state part to see if we could find some koalas.  We did, but they were so far up in the trees, they just looked like squirrel nests sitting up there. 

Today we went to a sanctuary and were able to experience both animals up close and personal.  This was amazing!  Kangaroos coming right up and eating out of our hands or just wanting to have their ears scratched.  The koalas are just like big stuffed animals - so cute and cuddly.

Luna Park.

From our harbor lunch cruise this afternoon.  I think I'll work with this one in Photoshop when I get home. It's another very cloudy, overcast day.

We finally made it.

After 35 hours of travelling we're needing clean clothes and a shower.  Since the hotel wasn't ready for us yet, we took a quick bus tour around Sydney. 

We didn't get to see Tuesday February 2nd since we crossed the International Date Line in the middle of the night on Monday and landed in Sydney early Wednesday morning, so there won't be a picture for "yesterday".

We're off.

The dreaded trip.  Almost every year there is some sort of business trip that Pete and I both have to attend.  Sometimes for a week, sometimes two.  These trips seem like a good idea when they're presented to me.  We've seen some amazing places around the world.  But the few days before we depart the girls are miserable - crying and begging me not to go.  I always wonder if the trips are worth having to see these beautiful girls so upset.  They usually get over their misery after a few days, but right now that doesn't seem possible.  Thankfully they have grandparents who understand this and desperately try to cheer them up.