Sydney 2010: Sand Play

Aside from the dolphins and whales, the other thing which we thought Noey would enjoy at Port Stephens was the beach. His ears prick up every time we mention the word "beach". In fact, while discussing our itinerary for this trip one night, we let slip the fact that we could go to the beach one day, and we had to put up with his incessant requests to "go! Go to the beeeeach!" He only stopped when we pointed out that the beach would be dark at night. (Noey's scared of the dark, you see. I have no idea why but it's useful for keeping him out of areas we don't want him to go!)

The thing about Noey and sand though is that he is fond of the digging, but not so fond of sand on his feet, or anywhere on him.

Argh, don't put me down Ah Kong!

Not amused by Ah Kong's attempt to let him get his feet wet in the sea. Can't say I blame him -- it was rather cold!

He couldn't resist digging of course, though immediately upon touching the sand, he stuck his hand out to me and plaintively complained, "His hands are dirty!" (He still can't get his pronouns right!) He settled down quickly thereafter fortunately and proceeded to -- what else? -- dig, dig and dig!

Ah Kong and Noey and their sandcastle. If you notice, Noey still has his toes all scrunched up, which he always does when he's uncomfortable with a surface. This is sooooo me.

Waiting for the sunset that never really made an appearance. It was too cloudy that day!

We hit the beach again the next morning since we had a bit of time before we headed back to Sydney, and I'm glad we did because it was a really gorgeous morning. Just the type of morning that immediately pops to my mind when I think of Australia -- blue skies, white sand, crystal clear water and wide open spaces. Ahhh.

The best part: we had the beach all to ourselves most of the time!

Put down that camera and come dig, Papa!

Noey gets adventurous and decides to go challenge the waves by dumping some sand in the water.

And hurriedly scurries back when the waves roll up to him! (With a satisfied smile nonetheless.)

Destroying Jon's attempt to get buried in the sand. Mr Fussy insisted that everyone's feet be kept OUT of the sand.

Taking that last walk with Ah Kong.
This is one of my favourite shots of the trip.

All good things, unfortunately must come to an end. After a morning in the sun, we reluctantly packed up, then took a short drive around before heading for home. Port Stephens is definitely worth a repeat trip another time. Hopefully when the weather is more cooperative!

All piled in and headed for home. Noey certainly missed that rented van!