melbourne cup

Michael and I went to Melbourne for the big horse race- the Melbourne cup. The call it the race that stops the nation. It is on the scale of the Kentucky derby or English Ascot races. We traveled to the races on a friend's boat - an excellent way to tailgate and avoid massive traffic. We were invited to a private tent at an exclusive part of the track. It was quite fun to watch the fashion show parading in front of our tent. As per typical Australia- there was a lot of skin and a lot of booze. Funny enough most of the special private tents don't even have a view of the track - you watch from a TV or watch outside. Still it was quiet fun.

My big boy

(imagine trumpet horns blowing- sorry no sound effects on the blog yet)

Nate has successfully gone 4 nights in a row without diapers and no accidents!!!! Our first night didn't go so well (he was very mellow about it) but ever since we've had no issues. Knock on wood. We wake him before we go to bed and make him pee - sleep peeing really as he doesn't remember it the next morning. Tonight he announced that he was done with diapers. I think I'll hang on to a box or two for a couple of weeks just in case (of course I have three packs of them in the closet).

We may never leave Australia

Mom & sister do not read this post!!!! Don't want you to get worried about our return.

Ben & Jerry's just opened a concept store in Manly- I believe its their first in Australia. I've been tracking the construction progress for weeks but now it is officially open. Can't rely how psyched I am. It isn't like Manly is short on ice cream shops - I can think of four without trying. But come on ...it is Ben & Jerry's. In addition to the excellent quality product it brings back fun memories of college- they delivered to the dorms (can you say freshman 20 lbs). We went last Friday night- funny story....the doors were closing so I ran in holding Reese with Nate following. I thought that they were about to close and didn't want to miss out but turned out it was a private function- sort of a training event for the staff. They took pity on the stupid but excited American woman in a frenzy about their store opening and let us stay. Best part was that each ice cream was only $1! So we went again this weekend - during legit hours. Just as tasty just more expensive (and a little less melted- I think they worked out the kinks in the freezer).

Ben & Jerry's fan club- Australia chapter:

Reese a big sister?

Reese loves to wrap her baby and teddies in her baby blankets and play mommy (or older sister). One of her favorite toys is her dolly stroller. I hate to break it to the girl but dad has already seen Dr Snip....so no more babies at our house.