Wedding Snaps

In this digital age not one of us hesitates to capture each moment in time and make a photographic memory to be shared. This wedding was no exception, with mobile phones, cameras with large zoom lenses and the more discrete models - snapping, clicking and flashing all afternoon until late in the evening. It is interesting to review the fresh smiles seen in those snapped photographs as guests busied themselves sampling bubbles, beer or wines and even the odd cognac. Terrace images highlight the cheerful mood. Tennis even made its way into the proceedings. Who would have thought?

Spicer's Peak Wedding

At 3 o'clock family and friends made their way to the lawn by the pool. Twenty-four of us assembled to witness Kirstie and Michael exchanging their vows. The sun was shining and there was a definite warmth to the air. Kirstie and her attendants were keen to begin proceedings. Hair dressed and dresses donned it was time to commence the ceremony. Michael and his groom's men were waiting to greet the bridal procession. Geoff, the celebrant recounted the stories of how Kirstie and Michael met and some shared memories of their relationship. Following the ceremony the partying began in earnest. A Wedding Feast of seven courses had been designed and presented to an exceptional standard. Dining tables festooned with flowers and silver candelabras created a mood of calm elegance and sophistication. A two tiered wedding cake mirrored the traditional theme now so well established by the happy couple.

Wedding Highjinx

There are first times for everything and I have now experienced the Photopod.com.au. What a fun way to celebrate an event. Weddings whilst being a momentous occasions can also be an opportunity to party. Once inside that photo booth and red curtain guests adorned with all manner of props performed for the mysterious lens. A lens that somehow new just how to capture a special moment in time. Being unfamiliar I was somewhat reserved during my earliest visit. However, once initiated I became more ambitious and creative as were family and friends. 3 men in underbelly dress snuck past security for one shot terrorising 3 delicate ladies of the most gentile natures.

Spicer's Peak Art

Art lovers and even the casual gallery buff delights in the vast collection of sculptures, prints and paintings at Spicer's Peak. A tranquil walk in the gardens reveals sculptures of every type. Walls and corridors are lined with unique pieces of art. Upstairs in the lodge sits a fine mosaic. On the short walk to the Day Spa the guest cannot help but pause and survey the featured wire and stone sculptures.  Other selected artworks utilise media such as wood, oils, prints, glass and even ceramics. The vibrant colours in some works carefully support the ambiance of the lodge whilst others add lively consideration for the delicate surrounds and environment. The scope and depth of the artworks is indeed impressive.

Hiddenvale to Spicer's Peak

We left Spicer's Hiddenvale and travelled for some time before exiting the highway that was to reveal the sign for Spicer's Peak. It is at the end of a steep, winding, climb that you will find The Peak. The highest non alpine resort in the Southern Hemisphere. That little bit of trivia does not prepare one for the world within its gates. Greeted at the door, luggage retrieved and spirited away to our rooms whilst drink orders were taken. I sipped my wee drop of red by the log fire, not the grand piano so as not to confuse others. Sadly, I have no musical talent what-so-ever! Over the next few hours other wedding guests made their way to the doors too. Some took in the view while others checked out the pool table. A number of us sought the coffee lounge to sip bubbles or beer before lunch. Lunch suggested an Italian concept with long tables dressed under the vine clad pergola. White linen bedecked the tables in readiness for a sumptuous buffet; the perfect meal for convivial chat and banter. More bubbles or beer before whisking off to the day spa for a massage. This moment in my agenda ensured that I would be well rested and relaxed for the days ahead. The wedding schedule so neatly typed and tied with ribbon was left on my bed along with tasty treats so that I may plan my day's activities and fully enjoy all of the celebrations.

Lillino's Light Lunch

Talga Road is the place to go for a light lunch or the daily chalkboard special. On Saturday afternoon we sat at Luigi's where we feasted on wood-fired pizza, insalata mista, the '05 Shiraz and poached pear. A pleasant way to spend the second last day of my holidays. Luigi was kind enough to bring in one of Isabella's pups. Every cellar door needs a dog. Luigi has two. We may soon have one of those pups.

House Guests

When you have lent your car to a family member, for reasons too long winded to explain; how do you entertain yourself at home? You search for little things to inject interest in your holiday. House guests add much needed interest to the day so what a good place to begin. Guests from Scotland, Ireland and the Netherlands were staying with us for a few nights. What a fascinating way to spend a year or two travelling the world. Backpacking, an adventurous spirit and the desire to see the world and meet some of its characters - brave, young people, our house guests. Their stories and journeys appealed but keen too was their interest in understanding Australia and its culture. Over dinner, one by one, individual treks were revealed. The entire visit was most fascinating and I look forward to welcoming some of Christopher's other friends whom he met whilst travelling the America's. A casual barbecue, a platter, dessert or perhaps some Italian awaits our next guests. I wonder what country they call home?