21 years

We were lucky enough to be invited to Aine's 21st birthday party this weekend - at her home on Sydney's north shore. It was a lovely party with the sweetest, quietest, smartest bunch of young people I have seen together in a L-O-N-G time.

We've known sweet Aine all her life but only got to meet one of her biggest fans (Charlotte) last night. Charlotte and her little sister Olivia delivered confident, articulate and passionate speeches that were a highlight of the night - in tribute to their fave (ex) neighbour.  I found it hard to believe Charlotte is only 16 years old.

 A picture of Aine, with some of her besties (fellow students at Sydney Uni). You can just tell they are bunch of troublemakers can't you?

 I have known Aine's Mum Tania for over thirty years - from when she was fresh out of ANU Art School herself. Now there's the real wild child of this party!!!

 There was a big crowd to feed - and everything handmade and delicious.....

 ... and a perfect birthday cake for Aine ..........

 .. and hours of dancing after with these gorgeous young (and not so young) things. My feet are very sore today (but at least my head isn't!).

 Tania was in fine form (of course).

 The pool area was deserted tonight. Sydney has had the same cold snap that we've had in Canberra this week - but it was a very pretty backdrop to the main party scene....

 We just had an overnight stay in Sydney this weekend - at the Meriton in Chatswood (for the first time ever). Apart from a bit of a shopping session in the CBD for me and a delicious brunch at Maroubra's Pool Cafe this morning we didn't do much else in Sydney, other than enjoy Aine's party.


We're going to really enjoy watching this special girl launch herself into the world - just as soon as this Uni degree is done!