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We've had our trip to Australia planned since the beginning of this year and the wait has been agonizingly long. Now after a total flight time of 19 hours, and an 8 hour layover in L.A., we've finally arrived in the land down under.

The first day was a little rough since Australia is 16 hours ahead of Charlotte. With my jet lag, there were times I literally felt like I was down under. We ended up sleeping our afternoon away (which was our normal night/early morning). Needless to say I found myself awake at 1 am and unable to go back to sleep. I didn't mind as it gave me the opportunity to admire the amazing Sydney Harbour at night. I even got to catch a glimpse of the firework and light team preparing for Monday night!

The next day we headed over to a weekend market at The Rocks. There were so many unique crafts and I am amazed I didn't come home with everything in the stalls. You could find handmade jewelry, aboriginal art (which was my strongest temptation), gorgeous painted vases, handmade soaps and so much more. We did get a few Aussie Christmas ornaments and found the perfect gift for a friend. Thanks to my dad, we also walked away with two amazing paintings by a local artist. We weren't allowed to take pictures while he worked, but he painted pictures while listening to the music of Pink Floyd. What was so incredible was the way he was manipulating the image with nothing but spray paint and a newspaper. It was also amazing to see that he created the pictures in less than 5 minutes. We don't have our paintings yet, but when we do, I'll be sure to share them here.

For lunch we ate at Doyle's fish and chips shop and took pictures of the incredible ocean views at Watson's Bay. On the way back to my dad's apartment, we also drove by Bondi beach. As it is the summer here, it was way too crowded to park, but seeing it was enough for us.

Now as I write this on Charlotte's Sunday afternoon, it is actually Monday morning here. That means we will be prepping all day for tonight's New Year's celebrations. My dad is having a party and we're watching the fireworks from my his balcony. I've never celebrated New Year's by doing anything special. I usually just stay at home with the hubby. So I purchased a lacy black dress for the occasion, and naturally, to wow the hubby a little too.

As for the pictures and retelling of New Year's, you'll have to stay tuned for that one. I hope everyone has a happy New Year and a wonderful celebration! Here's to 2013!

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