Christmas Decorations

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas 2020!!  Not as much hustle and bustle this year, but we still put full effort into the Christmas Decorations. Thought I would share….hope you enjoy!

Welcome!!

Foyer

Hallway from foyer to kitchen/family room…poinsettia trees are a gift from my parents we have enjoyed for years.

Kitchen mantle with my cherished Byers Caroler Collection…my mom started me on this collection many years ago.

Tree in kitchen displays years of photo ornaments and more playful ornaments, as well as, homemade ornaments.  The tree topper caroler was made by one of my kids in 2nd grade.  I didn’t include a photo but my nutcracker collection is above the stove.

Silver and Gold theme in the dining room…should have set the Christmas table for the photo.

Stockings hung in the living room with our main tree which is placed in our front bay window.  Can’t see the manger which is in front of the fireplace.

Best wishes for a very Happy Holiday and a Healthy, Joyful and Prosperous New Year.  I’m hopeful 2021 will bring much brighter days!!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

Home for the Holidays…literally!

Over the past COVID months,  I made the effort nearly every day to go for a walk, do some weight training and stretching, get dressed wearing clothes (not sweats) and put makeup on even just to go wait in line at the grocery store.  I know, for myself, it would have been a downward spiral if I didn’t make some sort of personal effort.  But, how I miss really getting dressed!!!  Now that the holidays are here I am excited to share some great looks!

My last post was a collaboration with Marc Cain and my “return” post is with them as well!  There clothing makes me feel great!  Great fabrics, amazing color, the ability to mix, and for me, fantastic fit!!  If you like standout pieces Marc Cain is also worth checking out…

This holiday season is truly looking like we will all be Home for the Holidays…literally!  Styling is by Marc Cain The Westchester’s Manager, Virginia.  We’ve put together many looks  – some are more casual, but still pulled together.  Some are dressy.  But all are unique!!  Additionally, we wanted to highlight the mix and match capability of the clothes and Marc Cain’s approach and passion for color.

COZY COLOR:

Unexpected holiday color, this blush floral print is the foundation.  Mixed with a cream faux fur vest, black leather fanny pack and black booties.

Mixed with a shiny black top and sneakers…this is ideal as a comfortable, festive holiday look, especially if your the hostess of a casual holiday meal.

Amazing reversible faux fur grey outerwear piece

The flip side

 

REPTILE PRINT MANY WAYS:

These reptile pants are incredibly versatile!!  Worn with a baby pink cashmere sweater, bright pink coat and patent leather hiking boots.

For fun, add a hat and a fur collar…

Pair them with a printed sweater, white patent booties and a soft fleece handbag.

Take them simple and classic with a silk top, classic pump and clutch.  (BTW – the classic black coat in the background is stunning.  Has removable ostrich feather pocket detail!!)

BURGUNDY!!

Burgundy leather leggings with a cozy burgundy turtleneck sweater, fleece bag and classic pumps.  Love this easy look for an at home gathering. Works great with an ankle boot too.

Going more casual…Same burgundy legging worn with a silk blouse and soft plaid cape.  The gold booties are lined with the softest fur – no socks needed!!

 

CHIC LEATHER:

Machine washable faux leather wide legged culotte worn with a sheer sequined top with white underpinning.  The houndstooth coat is embellished with a soft blue faux fur collar accessory. Dress down look – pair the culotte with a cashmere sweater and bootie.

 

UNIQUE JACKET:

Having a unique jacket in your closet makes getting dressed so easy! This velvet-like embellished fabric with removable burgundy faux fur collar is paired with a simple striped tee and skinny jeans and white western style boot.  The cobalt blue cross body adds another pop of color.  This jacket reverses to black patent leather!

BOLD COLOR:

Wearing hunter green leather leggings with a bold, colorful floral print scuba jacket and chartreuse scarf and bag.

Hunter green leggings worn with a stunning emerald green velvet blazer, chartreuse carry-all and scarf worn around the wrist.

SURPRISING COLOR COMBO:

Coral and baby blue – a surprisingly beautiful combo!  The printed scuba cropped pant and coral turtleneck are a natural pair.  Mixed with baby blue pieces – sumptuous faux fur jacket, booties, hat and leather gloves.  The scarf picks up all of the colors.

CLASSIC SUIT WITH A TWIST:

Menswear-inspired black classic double breasted wool suit with soft pink windowpane and cropped pant.  No shirt – just a feminine scarf balances the masculine.

Windowpane suit worn with a beautiful soft pink faux fur coat.

WHY NOT GET DRESSED UP:

Even if your staying home for the holidays, why not get dressed up?!  This stunning separates outfit is embellished with Swarovski crystals on the tuxedo striped skinny pant and the bell sleeve of the belted top has beautiful crystal buttons.

MRS CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN:

A super comfy stretch jersey suit with herringbone pattern combined with baby blue accessories… Who would have thought??  Added twist, burgundy shoes and bag!!

 

Have fun with fashion!!  Combine color and pattern; masculine and feminine and you’ll have an unexpected, chic look!  All pieces in the post are Marc Cain and available at their store at The Westchester in White Plains, NY.

Wishing you the happiest holiday wherever your home may be!  I bid farewell to 2020 and welcome renewal and all happy, healthy things for you in 2021!!

Thanks for stopping by… Cynthia

Marc Cain Collaboration

Marc Cain is a German brand that has been in my local mall, The Westchester in White Plains, NY for a few years.  I am huge fan of the brand – love the fabrics, the styling, the tailoring, the mix of color and pattern that are trademarks of the brand.  Additionally, I love how they put a twist on the classics to make them more modern and feminine.  I now own a number of Marc Cain pieces (not everything shown in this post unfortunately) and I love taking my clients and friends to the store.

For the Marc Cain Collaboration photos, the outfits are styled by myself and Virginia, the stylish, helpful and knowledgeable Manager of the White Plains location.  (She’s also the photographer) All accessories are Marc Cain as well.  Our hope is to show that Marc Cain clothing looks great on regular women!

Marc Cain’s iconic leopard print is in the following 3 photos where we are showing the versatility of how one pair of wide-leg  trousers with a racing stripe can be worn 3 different ways.

1. The classic power suit worn with a scarf, classic black pump and smart handle, satchel bag.

2. Wide-leg trouser worn with an amazing second skin button-up turtleneck, black cashmere coat and black patent bootie.

3. Wide-leg trouser worn with a playful and practical double-zip windbreaker and a safari style shoulder bag.

The easy, leopard print tunic with pockets is a great addition to anyone’s wardrobe.  Here it’s paired with a black cashmere coat, and a gorgeous suede, block heel boot. But would also be great with a sneaker, ankle boot or heel.  The collar turns up to reveal a zebra print pattern.

This comfortable neoprene fabric mixed with sheer prints create an elegant look.  Pair with a classic cashmere coat and classic pump and handbag for a dressy look…

…or worn with over-the-knee boots and a vest for a chic, casual look.

Marc Cain offers a variety of dresses…this jersey maxi dress made up of semi-chromatic colors paired with diagonal stripes is a fun piece!  Worn with white patent booties, but can easily be worn with sneakers, knee-high boots or a heel.  The ultra lightweight puffer synches to compliment your shape.

The tunic dress synches at the waist and the floral print is inspired by the amaryllis belladonna flower of South Africa.

A Plaid coat in the same colors perfectly compliments the dress and easily transitions to Spring.

Modern suiting is a Marc Cain specialty!  This is a trouser and vest worn with their fabulous second skin turtleneck.  The pieces are great as separates as well!

If your looking for chic sportswear check out Marc Cain.  These neoprene joggers are flattering and can be worn super casual with sneakers or could be worn with the suiting vest above as an unexpected pairing.

An example of a great classic – Camel trousers, paired with a camel cashmere top coat worn with classic burgundy accessories, a leopard print silk scarf and white blouse.

Marc Cain offers beautiful fabrics, excellent tailoring, a modern take on suiting, a variety of dresses, great color options, fabulous outerwear, stylish sportswear, super essentials, gorgeous accessories, bags and footwear in a beautiful, full-service boutique setting.  Check them out at The Westchester Mall in White Plains or at a few other locations in the U.S.  Tell them Cynthia sent you…

Thank you for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

FALL FASHION 2019

Cooler Temps! Autumn Colors! Halloween Decorations!  All add up to Fall and that means it’s time for Fall Fashion!  Dressing in layers, wearing heavier fabrications, deeper colors, outerwear….all the things I adore.

Fall Fashion 2019 trends I am loving follow.  Below the inspiration photo are photos and links if you are interested in learning more or purchasing.

LEATHER on LEATHER

Leather is classic but sexy and layering it is super chic!

Image: marieclaire.com

http://ZARA Faux Leather Jacket

http://ZARA Faux Leather Legging

 

SMART SUITS

Always a fan of a power suit – a great investment that you will feel super confident wearing!

Image: Marie Claire.com

http://Marc Cain Blazer and Trouser with subtle check

 

JEWEL TONES

Exude confidence wearing bold, bright color – easily done in an outerwear piece.

http://Blank NYC Colour Block Faux Fur Coat

 

CAPES

So many style options to choose from.  If your lifestyle is casual choose a casual style.  If your classic choose a trench style.  You can’t make a wrong choice.

Chloe – Image: Marieclaire.com

 

http://Ellen Tracy Faux Fur Cape

 

ANIMAL PRINTS

These are never out of style…but this season animal prints are showing up on everything from lingerie to sneakers.  Add a piece to your wardrobe.

Image: Marieclaire.com

http://Zara Faux Suede Coat

 

 

Best Wishes for a Fall Season filled with good health, good times and leather or faux leather, jewel tones, animal prints, a cape and a sexy, power suit!

Thanks for stopping by…. Cynthia

Effortless Summer Dressing

Do you want to look cool, fresh, chic, put-together, effortless and stylish this summer?  Then keep your clothing simple!

Summer dressing for me is about easy pieces that make you look like you tried but keep you feeling and looking fresh and cool all day.  Dresses and jumpsuits are are my staples in the summer – lightweight, flowing, looser fit are the qualities I tend to look for, especially for everyday.  Additionally, they are fun to accessorize with jewelry, shoes and handbags to change the look.

Here are a few selections (all Nordstrom) with links to purchase or more information:

I love a shirtdress!!  This can easily be worn with a sneaker, sandal, or bootie and it will transition well to the fall with a long sleeve top underneath or a jean jacket.

Lou & Grey Tie Shirtdress

Try a casual jumpsuit to change up your wardrobe.  Super comfortable, easy and cool because when it gets really humid your thighs won’t touch 🙂

Lou & Grey Brushmarl Jumpsuit

Midi-length dress – this one is intended as a beach cover but I love it as a dress too (love the pockets)!  Try wearing it with a bikini top in place of a bra.

TAVIK Serena Midi Cover Up

Casual body-con dress. This comes in numerous colors – great with flip flops, a sandal or a heel.

Leith Ruched Body-Con Tank Dress

A feminine wrap dress!  Flattering on so many body types and perfect for so many occasions.

Jason Wu X ELOQUII Floral Print Ruffle Trim Warp Dress

An breezy A-line!  When it’s hot you will look cool in this.

ALL SAINTS Romey Sleeveless High/Low Dress

A slip dress!  Going shopping or out to lunch?  This is so much cuter than shorts and a tee.

Reformation Halsten Slip Dress

Stylish Jumpsuit – If you don’t have one yet this is a piece to add to your wardrobe.  Don’t like to show your arms – wear with a light weight jacket, blazer or cropped cardigan.  There are many styles available in jumpsuits – there is one to fit your body type!

Reformation Gilda Crop Wide Leg Jumpsuit

Easy and effortless equals chic and fresh…Enjoy one-piece dressing for your most fabulous summer yet!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

Central Park Conservancy

On this special May Day, I had the pleasure of being a guest at The Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy’s 37th Annual Frederick Law Olmsted Award Luncheon held at The Conservatory Garden in Central Park (at 105th Street and 5th Avenue). Three women were honored with the Award this year for their hard work and dedication to the organization.  The Women’s Committee, a powerful team of fundraisers and Park Ambassadors, raises an incredible $10 million of the $80 million annual budget and over $175 million to date.  Now with a membership of 1,000 women strong, their programs enable anyone to make an investment in the Park.  The Central Park Conservancy – a not-for-profit organization founded in 1980 – is to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park in partnership with the public, for the enjoyment of all.  The Conservancy raises the Park’s nearly $80 million annual operating budget and is responsible for the work essential to keeping Central Park beautiful.

The event is a spectacle of fashion and creativity!!  My girlfriend Kimberly, a member of the Women’s Committee Board, advised all of her guests to wear a hat or hairpiece to this unique event.  I had no idea the Fashion, Flowers and Fascinators (and hats) would be so fanciful, imaginative and gravity-defying!!

Following are photos from this very special day… My girlfriend and generous hostess is the stunner in marigold!! (That’s me in the polka dots – chilly day so wore my fur stole)

 

Puppy topiary topper with leash

A forest in a hat with an owl on top

The Conservatory Garden – sadly you can’t see the gorgeous tulips surrounding the area

I heard Brooke Shields and Martha Stewart attended but did not see them.  However, I did see Mayor Bloomberg who was also sporting a hat! (Below)

After the cocktail reception in the garden we headed inside the tent which held over 1,300 guests!

What an unforgettable event!  Thank you to all that generously give their time and money to keep Central Park spectacular! I loved seeing all of the enthusiasm, creativity and effort put into the fashion and the hair pieces! When you walk through Central Park look around, appreciate and think of all of the effort that goes into keeping it beautiful. Thank you to my dear friend Kimberly for having me!!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

 

Christian Siriano

On February 9, I had the honor of attending Christian Siriano’s Fall 2019 Collection at New York Fashion Week presented at the Top of the Rock in New York City.  I became acquainted and quickly admired Christian when he was a contestant and youngest winner on the fourth season of Bravo’s American design competition show, Project Runway.

The Fall 2019 Collection showcased his whimsical and show-stopping designs – from fantasy evening gowns and cocktail dresses to tailored sportswear.  Christian said it was inspired by ” A trip to the future.  A world where we live as a society in an outer space land.  A new culture floating in space with communities and a thriving social calendar…” “The Collection is filled with silver hammered silks, voluminous dresses, quilted jackets and oversized evening gowns.”  He said, “I wanted the Collection to feel bold, powerful and strong but still feminine and beautiful.”

Christian Siriano has also been at the forefront of embracing and acknowledging the plus-size women, offering a selection of design options, as well as, featuring many plus-size models in his runway show.  The final look was worn by the stunning, plus-size supermodel, Ashley Graham.

The following looks were my favorites in the Fall 2019 Collection shown at NYFW.

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

Ashley Graham

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

The designer Christian Siriano at the end of the presentation.

SIRIANO FW19 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 02/09/2019

Christian Siriano is carried at Neiman Marcus and other fine department stores.  Additionally, I can source pieces.

It was a thrill to experience the energy and to see the colorful, bold and feminine Collection walk down the runway.  I loved the Collection and feel Christian did a great job at designing silhouettes that work for every body type.

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

** All photos taken by Dan Lecca for Christian Siriano.

Marc Cain at Fashion Night Out!

Marc Cain’s Spring 2019 designs illuminated the cat walk at Serendipity Magazines charity fundraiser, “Fashion Night Out!” held at The Loading Dock in Stamford, CT.  The fashion event pulled in a stylish and enthusiastic crowd who mingled in the modern space while enjoying a DJ and a delicious assortment of small bites and cocktails.

After introductions by Serendipity Founder and CEO, Suni Unger and SVP/Editor, Lisa Meipala Kennedy, as well as, Model and Founder of Every Mother Counts, Christy Turlington Burns, the fashion show began!   Serendipity’s, Suni Unger announced the Marc Cain fashion presentation featuring Greenwich, CT and local area residents as models and, who represent and raised money for their favorite charities.

All of the Marc Cain looks featured are currently available at the Marc Cain store at The Westchester in White Plains, NY.

Kicking off the show and representing The Cos Cob Fire Police Patrol, wearing a gorgeous Green Monochrome look with double-breasted blazer and tuxedo pant.

Neoprene bodycon dress with side details to accentuate the feminine shape worn with turquoise and white accessories.  Proudly representing the Greenwich Hospital Foundation.

Plaid dress with stretch and black side paneling to create a flattering silhouette.  Worn with red, block heeled sandals for a pop of color and Marc Cain’s white monogram bag accessorized with a lily of the valley print silk scarf.  Supporting Family Centers.

Shining bright for The Tiny Miracles Foundation in a head-to-toe trendy neon double-breasted suit worn with nude accessories.  Creatively wearing a retro print silk scarf as a head wrap.

Wearing on trend green and paired with red accessories for contrast.  The knit top has a super lux feel and the peplum is flattering and feminine.  The pants, with a tuxedo stripe add a corporate flare. Accessorized with an edgy white bag with silver hardware and the lili of the valley print scarf around the neck for a classic touch.  Smiling brightly for Every Mother Counts.

Highlighting the versatility of Marc Cain’s pieces by mixing and matching this look combines a tweed jacket with embellished buttons and lace detailed sleeves with a comfy neoprene black and white cropped pant.  The bag with stitching details bring the look from office to evening.  Happily representing the Greenwich Arts Council.

Wide-leg see through trouser (with inner shorts) worn with a linen jacket with a feminine camisole which has the Marc Cain motto, “Marc Cain Loves You” on the straps.  The nude saffiano bag with silver hardware studs and black suede statement pumps finish the look.  Glowing for Opus for Person to Person.

Who doesn’t love black and white?!  This a great day to evening look worn with a the red saffiano bag with gold hardware and black mesh booties.  Standing tall for Food Rescues Us.

This is the ideal brunch outfit – neoprene pants offer the ultimate comfort and flatter the figure. The denim jacket with peplum and jewel buttons add a girly flair.  Elegantly representing Greenwich Land Trust.

Marc Cain Collections and Sports labels cater to every age group.  This rocker look includes neon yellow denim and the jewel embellished top is layered over a leopard print tank. And, the finishing touches, a leopard scarf and black patent bootie.  Rocking it for the Greenwich Hospital Foundation.

Lilac, White and Denim combined in this soft palette for Spring.  Add the transitional jacket or wear it as a dress.

The ultimate weekend look combining soft pink suede sneakers, floral pants with racer stripe, a striped tee and a techno jersey jacket.

A perfect transitional outfit for Spring combining statement neon yellow accessories, a fashionable sneaker, a trendy transparent backpack with applique flower and pearls.  The down puffer is a great layer especially over this leopard print neoprene jacket.

This techno and pinstripe blazer with matching tapered trouser paired with an edgy silver booty is a hit worn with a long tank and lace cap for a feminine touch.

This leopard dress accentuates the figure with a tie at the waist.  The bottom of the dress is a ribbed cotton and the top is light and flows – great for office or otherwise.  Paired with red pumps and a nude bag.

Dress it down with a denim jacket or wear this champagne colored shimmering sequin dress on its own to a party or special event.

This white pant with black racer stripe down the side pairs beautifully with a cozy, soft printed sweater. Add statement accessories like this lace cap, pink and silver sneaker and great silver leather cross body bag.

This fashionista is wearing an impermeable parka with techno material pants.  Worn with mesh white boots and colorful printed scarf.

Hot pink, black and white are a great combo to transition into Spring.  The puffer is worn over a floral print top and techno stretch pants with a utility strap detail at the side – edgy but comfy!

The final look was a stunner with it’s metallic jacket and embellished top worn over faded, tapered denim with a black patent booty.

 

The Fashion Show was superb filled with color, trends and covetable looks.  The Models were fabulous and did a great job representing their fine and important charities.

Marc Cain is located at The Westchester – 125 Westchester Avenue, White Plains, NY

914-460-5051

Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm,  Sun 11am-6:30pm

 

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

 

Valentine’s Day

St. Valentine’s Day dates back centuries and contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. There are many stories about who is Saint Valentine. * One story depicts a Roman priest who performed secret weddings against the wishes of the authorities in the third century. Imprisoned in the home of a noble, he healed his captor’s blind daughter, causing the whole household to convert to Christianity and sealing his fate.  Before being tortured and decapitated on February 14, he sent the girl a note signed, “Your Valentine”.

No matter the history, it continues to be the day lovers express romantic gestures through cards, chocolates and gifts.  This Valentine’s Day treat yourself (or your Valentine) to the gift of lingerie. The gift of lingerie is so personal and special and there are so many beautiful options, no matter your taste, preferences or confidence 😉  There is nothing quite like wearing feminine undergarments.  Leave something to the imagination and find a style or a piece that suits your figure and makes you feel fabulous!

Here are a few options by Intimissimi, an Italian clothing label which specializes in bras, briefs, lingerie, vests and pyjamas for women and men. (Intimissimi for Men)

Intimissimi L’Amour You Tulle and Lace Babydoll

Sexy Mesh Balconette Bra

Sexy Mesh Cheeky Panties

Sexy Mesh Lace and Microfiber Cheeky Panties

Viscose Satin Kimono

Full Bloom Viscose Satin Kimono

Full Bloom Elena Balconette Bra

Full Bloom Cheeky Panties

Intimissimi Sexy Mesh Viscose Satin and Lace Petticoat

Nordstrom offers complete sizing for everything they carry.  Here are a few plus-size lingerie options at Nordstrom.

 

Natori Luxe Shangi-La Nightgown

Oh La La Valentine Lace Teddy

 

Oh La La Cheri Adelle Teddy

Valentine’s Day/Evening is a few weeks away.  Plan ahead and treat yourself or the one you love to something personal and special!

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

*History.com

Australia

Finally posting about our 3-week family vacation in July 2018 to visit our son on his “winter” break in Australia.  He was half-way through his one-year overseas, studying at The University of the Sunshine Coast as part of Elon Universities study abroad program.  We flew from NY to LA, had a 4-hour layover, and then headed on our 15 hour flight to Sydney.  Arriving a full day later we headed to our Sydney accomodation at Meriton Suites.

The  accomodations were impressive!  We had what was an apartment – a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom suite on a top floor.  It was pristine, big, open layout, kitchen, dining table, floor to ceiling windows, high-end finishes, laundry – such a great start to a vacation! We only had a few days in Sydney so we had to see the sites!  Of course, we headed to the opera house and took a harbour boat ride.

Sydney Harbour/ Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge

View of Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the water.

Walked all over the city and took a stroll through the Sydney Botanical Gardens…

And, had the first of many coffees.  Australians take their coffee VERY seriously and it is some of the best I’ve ever tasted.

The next morning we woke up to the most incredible double rainbow – seemed so close we could touch it!

After Sydney we flew South to Melbourne…a bit colder there.  We spent about one week in the Melbourne area.  We took trips into the city and we explored the vast, beautiful coastal area and attended a sporting event.

Photos of the city…along the river front…

Melbourne at night.

One day we took a road trip to Phillip Island where we had a fabulous lunch at The Cape Kitchen, pet and fed Kangaroos and saw Australian wildlife and ended the day sitting on the beach waiting for the Penguins to come home from fishing all day, waddle up the beach and head to their dens in the dunes.

A very windy day on the back deck of The Cape Kitchen overlooking the open sea.  Delicious food – breathtaking view!

After lunch we visited a petting zoo to meet and feed hundreds of kangaroos and see Australian wildlife: Koala Bears, Dingos, Tazmanian Devils, etc.

Kangaroos and Jack

Dingos

Tazmanian Devil

Waiting for the sun to set so the penguins could come home.  No flash allowed so no photos of penguins – but it was so fun to see!! Hundreds waddled right past us, up and over the rocks and into the dunes.

We definitely enjoyed the amazing food and treats in Australia.  We had to try injectable donuts. A sweet start before an Aussie Rules Footy match at The MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground)

Outside the MCG, the most famous cricket stadium in Australia (also serves as a football stadium) and has a capacity of 100,024.  We saw a nailbiter match between the Melbourne Devils and St. Kilda Saints (massive underdogs) and St. Kilda won 119-117 which lead to raucous singing and celebrations by the away fans!!!  Jack said we would love the sport and the atmosphere – he was correct!!

Another day we took a road trip to see the sites of  The Great Ocean Road which is about 90 minutes from downtown Melbourne and winds for 249 miles along the wild Southern Ocean, past the world-class surf at Bells Beach and takes you to our final destination, The Twelve Apostles.

Me at a picturesque spot above Bells Beach on The Great Ocean Road

Spectacular view of Great Ocean Road from Teddy’s Lookout.

Lorne Beach – stopped for Fish n Chips at The Salty Dog in Lorne.

Arrive at The Twelve Apostles – Walking along the cliffs to get the best view of the limestone stacks off the shores of Port Campbell National Park.

Sun setting at The Twelve Apostles

The next day a historic train ride on The Puffing Billy Railway

A 3-hour train ride through the Wright Forest with lunch served in the historic cabins.

After the train ride we spontaneously decided to visit a suburb of Melbourne – St. Kilda

A view from across the harbour in St. Kilda, known for spectacular sunsets, to the city of Melbourne.

Watching the sunset and waiting for the penguins.

The white belly of a penguin.  Many came into the harbour to nest in the harbour walls.

After our fabulous week in the Melbourne, Victoria area we took an airplane North to the warmer weather in The Whitsunday Islands , Queensland.  We stayed in Airlie Beach, a popular backpacker stop.  It also happened to be The World Cup, so we watched an England game in a packed bar filled with every Brit in the area – what a wild night.  We enjoyed two snorkeling excursions. One to see Whitehaven Beach, perenially voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world and boasts the purest sand in the world and offers the added bonus of the swirling sands. On this excursion run by Red Cat Adventures we saw vibrant coral reef, swam with beautiful fish that swam right up to us – an unforgettable experience.  The second excursion, a 3-hour boat ride to The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system spreading over 1,400 miles where a few of us scuba dove for the first time.

The view from our Airlie Beach Air BNB pad.

World Cup celebrations in Airlie Beach

The Lagoon at Airlie Beach

Ali, Liz and Cate wading in the Lagoon

Cloudy day but still we enjoyed the remarkeable waters and powder-like sand at Whitehaven Beach.

The breathtaking swirling sands at Whitehaven Beach

Great Barrier Reef – After 3-hours of cruising in open ocean you arrive at this floating dock for scuba and snorkeling.  Also a submarine so you could view the reef without getting wet.  The dive was beautiful and on the cruise back to shore we saw whales!!

Ali and Cate suited up for snorkeling

The final days of our vacation were spent on The Sunshine Coast.  Jack, who was studying at USC (The University of The Sunshine Coast) gave the family a tour of his school and a feel of his life. We enjoyed the nearby beach town of Mooloolaba and now completely understand why he loved his time in Australia and did not want to leave.

A few campus photos

His dorm accomodations – his was the lower level and he had two Aussie roommates.

Mooloolaba Beach

Surfboard Bench at Mooloolaba Beach

We LOVED every minute of our 3 weeks in Australia.  The sites, the food, the coffee, the people, the relaxed life! I touched on some of the highlights but there was so much more to our vacation as well!  I hope you enjoyed the overview!  Put Australia on your bucket list and try for no fewer than 3 weeks.  So much to see and such a vast country/continent to cover.

Below is a link to an article from Your RV Lifestyle which has good information and is worth checking out if you are considering a trip to Australia:

https://www.your-rv-lifestyle.com/things-to-do-in-australia/

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia