Sydney Australia

What a great first day! We had breakfast near the train station, went to McDonald's for the free internet and on to the Chinese Gardens. A beautiful peaceful place with ravens, ibis, myna, ducks, need that bird book I left at home. But made extensive notes. Arrived at Darling Harbour just as the right boat was about to pull out. They held it for us. What an amazing tour! The day was perfect, azure skies, no wind, no waves. Saw the circular quay got off for lunch at the Rocks. Found the perfect place where I had lamb with mint sauce and salad in a tiny park, quiet and off the main street. Ah shades of Munich.

Then we got on the boat and on to Walton's gap or something like that. We got off and walked to the top of the hill for magnificent views of the Pacific and the cliffs. Oh my. Saw more birds. We saw that gorgeous lorikeet first by the fountains on the way to the harbour. Then again here.

Got ice cream and just made the boat, which was early. We ran and popped right on. Perfect timing. The whole day was perfect timing. Went back to the Chinese Gardens and sat for an hour enjoying the evening birds. Saw a lizard right beside us. Peaceful, beautiful place. Then back to the harbour for a lovely water side dinner in a charming restaurant. I had scallops and salad. Absolutely exquisite. Watched the boats and the ferries and the students. Walked on home. Did the internet thing and voila! A perfect first day. God is infinite good and ordered this day without any planning on our part.