8 Jan: Katoomba (NSW) --> Canberra (ACT).

Marc and Zachary getting into a very intense car session after Marc assisted in putting the track together

Well yesterday was a transition day as we left the calm of the Blue Mountains to head to the capital of Australia, Canberra. +Marc and I got in a quick swim and a run respectively. We have friends who live there and are looking forward to spending time with them as we tour the area.

Australia has been experiencing record hot temperatures, and while our friends in the northern hemisphere might be jealous, some extensive brushfires have started up. Lots of damage in Tasmania. We don't head there for another 3-4 weeks, but hope that the fires can be extinguished soon.

The other thing that happened is that when we were hiking in Wentworth Falls on Sunday that we saw a rescue helicopter hovering around the canyon, which made us wonder what was going on. Unfortunately our instincts were correct in that a British national was touring the area with their friends on Saturday, went off of the path, slipped and fell to his death. They were still trying to recover his body on Sunday. No photo op is worth it, but it is just a reminder that the two themes of our trip are 'safe' and 'fun'.

Let's learn more about Aussie wines! Cool!

Anyway we arrived in Canberra and were greeted with open arms by +Christine, Ashley, and their sons - Zach and Jensen. Christine's Mom is also visiting from the States so it is a full house. It was so nice having a home cooked meal and we were introduced to a couple of local wineries in the area that we look forward to trying while we are here. Later in the evening, Ashley was explaining some of the nuances of rugby, AFL (Australian Football League = Aussie Rules) and cricket. 

We got some tips on which places to check out in the area and look around. Should be a fun few days!