Aussie Adventures: Lynch style

Living at the Lynches has been the greatest 3 days since my arrival down under. They have done so much to help us get settled and feel more at home in this new country. Not only have they made life easier but also more fun! I've made a new best friend and he's the cutest boy I've ever seen. I've got a crush... His name is Austin Lynch and he is three and a half.

Here he is at his best! Austin was super shy when we first met but he's since opened up and let me be his friend. I've connected well with a handful of kids in my life, but Austin is the first that I immediately fell in love with. Living with him and getting to play outside together, go on trips around Sydney sitting beside each other, and help his mother care for him has made me feel extra connected to him. He couldn't remember my name for the longest time, but when searching for me he would ask his mom, "Mum, whays dat biggah big gurl?" because I'm taller than Lauren. He's got the most adorable lisp mixed with an aussie accent. I am so tempted to spend all my time in Sydney babysitting him instead of at the University of Sydney. Because of my love for him and his parents amazing hospitality, I've offered my free babysitting services to let Teresa and Ian go out for date nights or a mom's day out for Teresa when Ian is away on business. They totally deserve it and I can't wait to spend more time with big man (the nickname I gave him after I accidentally called him "little-man" and he responded with- "Im not lyttle, I'm a big mayn!").

Isn't he lovely?


Austin would steal my camera any time that I would have it out in the car, so here are a few shots from his two photo sessions. I just love the point of view of a 3.5 year old...

Some authentic Aussie experiences while under the Lynch family care were: a day at Manly Beach, the Sydney Fish Market (with a first taste of oysters and fried octopus), Bundaberg Rum (Dark & Stormies and Bundy & Coke), Victoria Bitter, Vegemite, and a big night out at the Mounties Cassino-club including slots, drinks, big-screen rugby game, and dinner.

The Sydney Fish Market

Some fish were almost the same size as Big Man.

Ginger Beer, Grilled Tuna Steak & Chips before...

...and after.

Out on Manly Beach with Lauren.

Pretty Lauren and pretty beach!