What a fantastic weekend on Stradbroke Island. We went with our very best Aussie mates, Paul and Julie. Their two girls, Jasmin and Ellia were an absolute treat to photograph. We all stayed in a very roomy beach house. We vacationed the Aussie way with the very laid back, no worries attitude. We ate, swam, and 4x4ed a lot! It was a great weekend...one of those you hate to see end!
Jasmin
Juli and Ellia
This is Brown Lake. It should have been called something like,
Clear Amber Lake, because Brown Lake just didn't do it justice. The clear ‘tea’ color comes from the surrounding trees and from the layer of organic matter, which forms the bed of the lake.
This is Blue Lake.
These ruts were impassable. We would have easily been high-centered attempting this one. Good thing there was an alternate route.
Nice white legs! The boys got out to check the depth of this one. As you can see it was above their knees. So, they determined...
...Yes, lets give it a GO!
We did several water crossings just like that one. It was great fun, and here is a picture of Jonathan's face to prove it.
We were now getting close to the end of this track. We could hear the ocean, but couldn't see it. All of a sudden the 4x4 track turns into a creek. Turning around wasn't an option...we come so far already. So, "Lets GO" and off we went!
We conquered the 4x4 track and all its water crossings with no problems at all, however our luck ran out. It was time to say goodbye to the beach for today and travel inland to our beach house. We are all rooting for Jonathan as he hammered down trying to get up a hill with very, very, soft sand.
Sand was flying everywhere!
He was doing great until a truck popped over the top of the hill forcing Jonathan to slow down and consequently he got stuck. The good thing is there is always someone out there ready to help. It is kind of like a big 4x4 family out there on the beach. I think the Aussies view it as something to do if they need to help pull/push someone out.
That concludes day 2 of our trip. Day 1 is below.
Preparing the tires for 4x4ing. You have to let out a lot of air.
Ellia
Jasmin
Paul has all the great beach gear...tents, kites, fishing essentials, etc.
Yes, both Jonathan and Paul caught a fish. We grilled them up for dinner. Very yummy!
She has no idea how cute she is!
No, not Daisy Duck, but Minnie Mouse!
Our military guy had great fun wearing all his gear.
Jen's Oldest Girl - Marin
Paige, Dawn and Becky all had great crafts awaiting the kids. They made some really cool stuff!
Kathleen did a fantastic job carving this pumpkin!
Dawn, Jennifer, Becky, Paige, Melisa, & Kathleen
Becky
Jen & Cory
The kiddos had an absolute blast!
