Qatar National Day

Dhows on display, well, actually EVERYTHING was out on display.
Brendan's work pledging their allegiance.

Ooh, sails are up! Never seen that before.

Loved all the kid's outfits.

And the big boys'...

Brendan, Matilda & Isabelle watch the 'water show'.

Cool.

The 'air' show begins.

We're on the map now, with the Qatar 2022 bid win! No longer Dubai's poorer cousin.

They certainly have.

Everyone is loud and proud today.

Even the palm trees are dripping in bling.

Here comes the traffic.

These are definitely not the craziest examples of what it was like on the day. Unfortunately, I did not capture any sights and sounds from the night experience, but it was definitely LOUD and OTT!

Yes, yes, our kids were also hanging out the top of our Pajero waving the Qatari flag...

Matilda's Ballet Recital

This is so cute. Matilda stayed so focused for the whole hour (!!) and did so well. We're proud parents indeed.

This one is my favourite.
With Madame Isabelle, a very strict teacher, but Matilda seems to like it.

Lucia 2010

Isabelle.
Matilda.

Sisters.

Here they come.

I thought Lucia-tarnor were supposed to be graceful... not running!

The White-Castle gang (minus Oscar).

The Mini-Swedes of Qatar.

Thanks to Andrea for capturing this on video!

DESS Christmas Festive Fair

Both girls performed at the DESS fair. Matilda did some tap dancing, and Isabelle some gymnastics.
Matilda always looks so happy on stage. What does that mean? Well done Matilda!OK, now Isabelle starts by warming up with her peers.She's a kid who likes to spend a lot of time upside down.

Olivia and Isabelle get into position to start the routine.

Lining up for the next bit...

It was like a Mexican wave of cool moves...

Nice cartwheel.

Good job Isabelle!

Souq Waqif Festival

We had a night out on the town... a street festival Doha-style in the old souq (market) area. Imported street performers lap up the attention. Here's a small sample. "Bolli" - girls dressed as swans on stilts. "Ice Cream Ali" - funny tricks with real ice cream. "Garry Stretch" - one word: freaky. "Alex the Cat" - nothing compared to the real tigers the Qataris house in their homes as pets. "Viktor and Ian" - awesome acrobats.

Our tummies are full of beef rendang, mee goreng and prawn sambal, followed up with delizioso Italian gelato, we're off home to bed! Happy little Vegemites.