Springtime in Sydney

Ben and I took some vacation over the past week and one of the places we visited was Sydney. On our way to the "big smoke" we stopped in for lunch at one of our secret culinary gems that serve the best meat pies - it's called "Pie in the Sky" . They also have very tasty fruit pies as well like, apple, peach, apricot and blueberry. Yummo!

Ben with his traditional Aussie meat pie smothered in 'sauce' (tomato ketchup) with a side of 'mashers'

All was a buzz in Sydney with the holiday season just around the corner and signs of Spring everywhere we turned.

Brilliant purple blooms on the Jacaranda trees around Sydney Harbour (note the Harbour Bridge and the Opera house in the background)

Kangaroo Paw in bloom at the Royal Botanical Garden

In the city, there is an old building originally used as government offices that has been converted into this beautiful retail area full of designer/boutique shops and cafes (the YaYas would love it here - yes Ro, there is a Coach store). It is known as the 'QVB' (Queen Victoria Building) and is one of my favorite places to go when I'm in the city. Every year they put a huge, 3-story sized, Christmas tree on display. This year is was covered in dangling Swarovski crystal ornaments - absolutely spectacular!

The 2009 QVB Christmas Tree

On our little escape we also enjoyed dining out, shopping, going to the movies (Gold Class - seated in recliners, way cool), having a massage and catching up with FIL (father-in-law) at Darling Harbour for lunch.

Me and my FIL (Bob)