Mt Wellington Snow Day!

Winter seemed to whizz past faster than expected and as we watched the clouds dump snow on the caps of Mt Hartz from our balcony, we realised that the warmer weather was approaching before we had a chance to enjoy it. So after a generous dusting of snow was delivered, we grabbed some lunch and headed up to the smaller Mt Wellington for some fun! This was L's first visit to the snow and although R and B had both seen snow when they were younger, this was the first time that they were old enough to appreciate it. L was not sure what to do at first and planted her feet firmly into one spot refusing to move! R and B quickly learned the art of making snow men, throwing snowballs and making snow angels with squeals of delight and rosy cheeks! It was a fantastic day and one that we will remember fondly. It's easy to take for granted the places that we can visit on a day out - beaches, mountain peaks, lakes, rivers and waterfalls are all on our doorstep and there to be enjoyed...

Exploring Hartz Mountains

It was lovely to have the kid's Great Grandpa came over from the mainland to visit for a week, so we were itching to take him out into the wilderness and explore some of Tasmania's National Parks. Hartz Mountains National Park was our destination. A part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, it is located in Tasmania's south-west and dotted with small glacial lakes. We chose a walk to one of these lakes - Lake Osborne.

The 45 minute uphill walk was expected to be slightly demanding for the kids, but they were keen to come along and explore their surrounds. It was a delight to see R looking for fungi and studying the vegetation. B strolled along beside Grandpa, following his lead as he paused to smell a flower or feel the texture of leaves or bark. L was delighted to ride in the 3 wheeler pram as D navigated it around tree roots and bumped it over rocks. The kids were also glad to have their Nan along for the walk, so dashed back and forth between us all. Along the way, we stopped to read plaques that taught us about the young rainforest of myrtles, sassafras and pandani and 'Devils Marbles' - large boulders dumped onto the plateau by glaciers.

When we arrived at the lake, we were amazed at how crystal clear the water was. We could see clearly to the rock lined bottom and almost immediately sampled the cool fresh water. While we ate our picnic lunch, we perched ourselves on large rocks among the King Billy pines and took in the amazing beauty of our country.

Feeling refreshed we headed back down the track. Not long into the return walk, B complained of sore legs, so L snuggled into the sling while B enjoyed the pram ride. R was happy to walk back and amazed us with his boundless energy! A great day was had by all. So much so, that we have made a commitment to making our treks into the wilderness a regular occurence. Watch this space for more of our Tasmanian adventures!

The Road Trip

Over breakfast one day our conversation led to the decision that we would take a road trip and explore a little of the Northern part of our state. We had never before ventured off for more than a day trip as a family of five, so this would be our first real family holiday!

2 weeks later we set off towards Launceston for a stay at Cosy Cabins in Hadspen. Some of the places that our adventure led us to were the model village of 'Old Hobart Town', Ashgrove Cheese factory, Anvers Chocolate Factory, Seahorse World, Platypus House and Cataract Gorge. Of course there were a few parks visited along the way, so that the kids could burn off some of their excess energy!!

http://s4.photobucket.com/user/buboo/slideshow/Launceston%202009

After 3 days away, we returned home exhausted and in need of another holiday!! Maybe next time we could relax by a pool sipping cocktails!!