I don’t have any photos from the pre-prandial morning walk I took with Mary J (B&B proprietor) but she took me in easterly and northerly directions to see Rushcutters Bay where are berthed the big sailing yachts that participate in the Sydney to Melbourne race, and Darling Point, a posh, hilly, and beautiful neighborhood with huge old trees, many old (by Aussie standards) homes, and gorgeous harbor views.

I also have no photos of my surfing lesson at Bondi beach. I had such a great time, in spite of my inability to actually stand up on the board, that I’ve signed up for another lesson. Plan A had been to take a train trip to the Blue Mountains where, apparently, there is only one day-trip length hiking trail accessible without a car. We have mountains I can get to from Boston. We don’t have surfing beaches with perfect sand, perfect weather, and perfect waves for beginners. All that being said, the next time I’m in this vicinity I will rent a car and spend some time hiking in the Blue Mountains! Who wants to come with me?!?

Friendly sulfur-crested cockatoos. Some were perched on a visitor’s arm, but I couldn’t get the shot in time.