Dear Matthew and Toby
Last weekend we took our first holiday as a family of four down to Margaret River. We headed down there as your dad and I had been invited to a wedding of you dad's work colleague so we decided to make it a little holiday. I was nervous given Toby hasn't enjoyed being in the car for long stints, but luckily Toby you slept most of the way there (and a good portion of the way back) and generally put up with our drives to and from touristy spots in the south west.
We started the holiday at around lunchtime on Thursday after Matt's swimming lesson. Soda joined us as we were staying in pet friendly accommodation at the Margaret River Stone Cottages. Our cottage was really beautiful, as you can see from the photos below, very picturesque surroundings and remote. We settled in on Thursday evening and woke up nice and early on the Friday and attempted to feed the chooks that were advertised as being on the property, but after walking around for a while we couldn't locate them so decided to head to Sunflowers Animal Farm. Matt you loved feeding the kangaroos, horses, sheep, goats, llamas, alpacas, cows etc and Toby you were petrified of the baby chicks! So funny (sort of) to watch you be totally at home with these huge animals then freak out at three week old chickens.
We then headed to Cheeky Monkey Brewery for lunch. Matt you enjoyed playing on the playground and Toby slept most of the lunch. Your dad and I enjoyed the view and the pizza and souvlaki chicken we'd ordered. Afterwards we walked around Margaret River town before heading back to the cottages for dinner. Your aunty Robyn and Kieran joined us after dinner, as they were to help with babysitting the next day.
On Saturday we went caving at Mammoth Cave, which absolutely captivated your Matt. After the cave we went on a little bushwalk then went to Berry Farm, east of Witchcliffe, for lunch. Your dad and I enjoyed the best beef pie and tomato chutney and Matt you again loved playing on their playground. Afterwards we headed back home to get wedding-ready then headed to the foreshore for the wedding. Your dad and I watched the ceremony by ourselves while you two were looked after by Aunty Robyn and Kieran and then while the bride and groom were having photos I brought Toby back to the drinks area while Matt you enjoyed playing on the sand (and getting drenched) with your babysitters. That night while your dad stayed on for the reception we all enjoyed making s'mores in the fireplace back at the cottage.
On the Sunday it was time to head home so we slowly made our way back to Perth with only one small stop to get some lunch and let Soda have a wee. It really was a lovely holiday and filled the soul right up again!
Love you,
Mum xxx