Our third day in Melbourne with our family and friends began like this: watching hot air balloons float majestically in the sunrise, with a shared breakfast of pancakes and coffee.

We all caught the tram to the Melbourne Museum. I must say that I want to return to Melbourne again soon so we can spend a whole day in that place! There was so much to see and do there; it is a great place for children to learn and Matthew in particular was engrossed in everything he saw. He was soaking up all the new knowledge like a thirsty sponge! I also caught up with a friend of the family, who I have known all my life! It was lovely to see you again, Gayle!

Our party separated at lunch time. Sarah, Lily, Monte, Matthew, Elora and I stayed at the museum for a while and everybody else went to Luna Park. After we had seen a bit more of the museum, we walked to Chinatown to have lunch. Matthew discovered that he loves dumplings, saying: “I think my taste buds are learning Chinese!” It was a great lunch.

After lunch we went to Federation Square to see some performances for the Comedy Festival as well as visiting an art installation in the gallery there. We enjoyed it so much, and the coffees we had on the way back to the hotel were fabulous.

To top off a brilliant day, we all gathered for Jill’s birthday dinner at Lygon Street. All 22 of us had a great party at the Italian Restaurant. The food was good, the wine was good and the company was great! I think everybody had a lovely time, especially Jill, who made a beautiful speech about being surrounded by the people she loves. Gorgeous!

Happy birthday Jill! We love you!