2011 YouTube Symphony Orchestra

Two weeks ago we attended one of the most spectacular performances I have ever experienced in my life: the 2011 YouTube Symphony Orchestra performed at the Sydney Opera House and streamed live across the globe. The two and a half hour visual and musical extravaganza took your breath away. Musicians from 33 countries were brought together for the performance. The program showcased unique instruments and talents (such as Ksenia Simonova's sand painting).

I hope that this program continues and graces music halls across the world.

For highlights of the performance, check out the YouTube Symphony Channel here.

Falling into Autumn

It's Autumn in Sydney and what a busy end of summer it has been! As the temperature dropped two degrees, I've had the startling realization that Australia (contrary to what we are led to believe) actually does have a winter (it even snows in Melbourne sometimes...). When packing for my trip, I was in complete denial of the fact that it actually, GASP, might get chilly. Thank goodness for mothers with great taste (and a willingness to send international packages). I am now a proud owner of 5 jumpers, which I am hoping will last me through Aussie Winter.

Here is my list of Top 10 favorite adventures (in no particular order) from the last days of summer...

1. Seeing the opera Carmen at the Sydney Opera house.

2. Amazing dinners...this has been quite the foodie month. My TOP 3 restaurants this month: Spice I Am, FishFace, and Baroque (our ALL time favorite French Bistro).

New fall menu tasting @ Baroque

3. Perfect Saturday celebrating on the Island. (photos courtesy of Emily)

3. Friday Twilight sails and my adventure up the mast.

4. Wine tasting at the New South Wales Wine Festival in Hyde Park, followed by rooftop wine and cheese.

5. Green drinks and dinner at the Greenhouse restaurant by Joost (a NO WASTE restaurant in town until the end of March before heading off to Europe--beautiful views, incredible concept, reasonably priced menu and vibrant atmosphere)

6. Bike ride around Canberra (the very bizarre Australian capital city--completely planned, very sterile feeling, but at the same time quite beautiful)

7. Annie Leibovitz exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Sydneysiders: A must do--it has been extended until March 27th. And don't let the line intimidate you, it actually moves right along. Also, if you have the time, I highly recommend staying for the documentary. More info here.

8. One Day Cricket Test Match-England vs. Australia. (members seats--Thanks Chris!)

9. Outdoor movies: Centennial Park Moonlight Cinema and Bondi Open Air Cinema.

Andrew, Steph, Scott and Winnie with our French-inspired picnic.

10. Rocks Markets by Moonlight.

Looking forward to upcoming Fall adventures...