30 Dancing Chimpanzees
- Nov 6, 2015
- 5 min read
On the build up to my darlings big birthday, I did my best to throw him of the scent! I think I did a really good job, even if I do say so myself, which is why he was a bit surprised when I woke him up really early on the day before his birthday. Jason being a good sport immediately got up, no questions asked. Even though he saw the packed bag, and even though we were on a mini bus with a group of other people, my darling was still in the dark. But did it matter where we were going, probably not, and is it not more important that we were spending a bit of time together? Of course! That's not to say he wasn't very excited when he found out that we were on our way to 'The Great Ocean Road' for a two day tour!
One of the best things about our little trip has to be our tour guy Todd. He's quite funny and really knows his stuff. Throughout the entire time, we learned so much. He is definitely one of the better guides we have had. After all, it's in his best interests to do a good job as it is his own company, his livelihood after all!
When you think of 'The Great Ocean Road,' you mainly think of 'The Twelve Apostles' and the nice beaches as you drive along the coast. One thing you definitely don't think about is the amazing wildlife that have taken up home in the area. From big Emu's to soft, cuddly Koala Bears to snakes! Yes, snakes. Walking along, we came across a 'Brown Snake'. Luckily we didn't step on it. Quite a scary thought. On a not so dark note, there were many trees that were stripped bare of any piece of life, standing soulless in the distance thanks to the damage caused by a koala bear.
It has to be said, if you want amazing beaches, visit The Great Ocean Road. Some of the beaches we saw were absolutely amazing, mixed in against a backdrop of sheer beauty. It really is 'Postcard-Picture-Perfect!' The bad thing about being with a tour is that time is always a huge factor. With so much to see in only two days, we didn't get to enjoy these stunning havens as much as we would have liked, I guess it is a good excuse to return in the future, not that we need any excuse to come back to our beloved Melbourne.
After seeing so many pictures of the iconic 'Twelve Apostles,' I was finally able to witness them for myself, through my own, inquisitive eyes. In reality, they are just as breathtakingly beautiful as one could ever imagine. While I may have not been able to catch the perfect sunset with them against a backdrop of an interesting pallet of colour, they were still really stunning, maybe not as colourful as I would have liked, but beautiful none the less.
Later on, we got to relax back at the hostel. Todd prepared a really nice BBQ for us, which we all thoroughly enjoyed. Everyone from the group seems very friendly, which is always a bonus. Not sure if it was a celebration or a commiseration, but myself and Jason enjoyed a nice bottle of whiskey, before our beds began to call for us.
The following morning, on day one of the thirtieth year of a man who takes my breath away! Corny, I know, but I'm trying to be poetic while being nice at the same time! I had the birthday boys presents all ready for him. My only challenge was to get him up. With not too many 'Get UP's, he eventually rose and I was able to give him his presents. I designed a 'This Is Your Life' style book online for him which had him in floods of tears. It was so cute to watch. I definitely pulled at his heart strings.
For Jason, it was a weekend of endless surprises. But what could I possibly have up my sleeve this time! How could I achieve 'The Wow Factor?' I'll tell you how, shall I? By organising a helicopter ride over The Twelve Apostles. But how could it get even better than that? We were asked if one of us would like a free upgrade which allowed an extra fifteen minutes of rugged, wind and sea battered beauty to enjoy. This was something I was not going to refuse. I wanted Jason to have a really special, memorable day and I think this was the icing on the cake. I insisted on Jason taking full advantage! Later on, we both agreed that our fist helicopter ride was breath-taking. Jason was on cloud nine after his rather lengthy ride. He was like a little kid, so happy, even his sheep were dancing around. He couldn't wait to tell me all about it. I'm so glad he enjoyed it so much.
One can not argue that Australia has one of the most impressive coastlines in the world. Interestingly enough, it is ever changing, from the collapse of part of 'London Bridge' to one of The Twelve Apostles falling down, not that there was twelve to begin with. I guess London Bridge really did fall down. Who knows what the coastline will look like in a few years time. As we drove along the scenic route, Todd had one request and one request only, sleeping was not permitted. There was simply too many beautiful things to see, including the light house from the popular kids show 'Round The Twist.' Driving along this famous road, we got to see lots more wild Koala Bears, which are amazing to see. It was definitely worth staying awake for. If my lovely mother was with us, she would be constantly 'Ooing and Awwwwing!'
As we arrived back in Melbourne, it was almost time for my final magical surprise of the evening of which I had Jason convinced that we would be eating in somewhere rather basic as opposed to a lovely fine dining experience in the rather fabulous 'Punch Lane' restaurant. Little did he know what was up my sleeve. Their collection of different cheese's are to die for. So much thought is put into not only presentation but making sure that every bit of cuisine and even the beverages go perfectly together. Even though the portions are absolutely miniscule, it works really well as you eat a lot slower, which allows you to fully taste every glorious bite. It was a perfect ending to a perfect weekend.
Turning thirty is a big occasion. Of course, waving good bye to your twenties is equally as important! With a weekend full of surprises, it's a birthday that hopefully will stay in my darlings heart forever! Seeing the joy it brought him, was the most amazing feeling of all! Happy 30th Birthday, my darling Jay!
Love,
Andrew
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