December 30, 2004 - Sydney

In line for a bee-ah outside the Opera House. We couldn't get into a tour today, we'll try again Saturday. Heading to wine country tomorrow!

This wallabee came right up to say hi, then scampered off down the sidewalk. Wonder how he'd taste? 

Nice view of Sydney from the ferry this morning, on the way over to the zoo. 

That's Ammar on the left and Joe on the right. We're in Joe's backyard in front of the barbecue. Too bad it's too dark to see the amazing landscaping. Like an American, I believed them (sort of ) when they told me they were grilling kangaroo and crocodile. But Ammar's kids got even with him for me: "Dad, how come no one ever laughs at your jokes?"  

My pal Ammar picked us up in Double Bay last night and drove us, with his wife Olga and their three kids, to our friend Joe's house for a barbecue. There was a nice intimate gathering of Micromuse and ex-Micromuse people, spouses and kids - great time! Joe's wife Adrienne is the architect of their very contemporary house - sort of a George Jetson deal. Yes, Joe put shrimp on the barbie... 

Her'es Wendy on the ferry, headed to the aquarium yesterday. People use the ferries more than the subway here. Circular Quay (pronounced "key") is the busiest harbour we've seen. And the ferries are ringers for the Staten Island ferry - right down to the hunter green paint.