29. November 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Struggling 29. November 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetI was struggling a lot this year, through a combination of things ranging from self worth, lack of sShareI was struggling a lot this year, through a combination of things ranging from self worth, lack of support, dealing with the boys, work and other things.Mid-year during the lockdown it hit hard.
7. April 2021 22:04 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Camping Glenworth Valley 7. April 2021 22:04 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOver easter we went to Glenworth Valley for Camping. This location is about an hours drive north of ShareOver easter we went to Glenworth Valley for Camping. This location is about an hours drive north of Sydney in an easily accessible but beautiful little valley.It is private propoerty, so you have to book beforehand and it does get very busy. We were very lucky that we were located down at the end of the property where it was more quiet.In the evenings there were beautiful sunsets.In the morning it was a bit more misty in the valley.The owners also put on a great easter egg hunt for the children. There were hundreds of children with 20,000 chocolate eggs hidden in a field and there was an easter bunny riding a horse.We also spend time playing some ball sports. I'd brought a baseball bat and ball. Because we were four families, we had plenty of people to form two teams. It got very competitive and the bat took a bit of battering, so I had to go a buy a more solid wooden bat.In the evenings we had the normal campfire and baked dampers on sticks, marshmellows and baked potatoes in the fire.There are also lots of walks witin easy driving distance, including some walks with beautiful waterfalls.Also, people come to the valley for horse riding, so there are lots of horses in the surrounding paddocks.And wildlife such as Kookaburras!And going for a short stroll in the mornings was a beautiful experience with the mist and light changing.Because of lots of rain, the whole area had been flooded just weeks earlier. Where we were camping would have been a meter under water, but because of the river running through the area the water had fortunately receeded.
21. March 2021 13:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate 3rd Kyu 21. March 2021 13:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetI reached a significant milestone in karate this week. I graded for my 3rd Kyu (Brown belt) and at tShareI reached a significant milestone in karate this week. I graded for my 3rd Kyu (Brown belt) and at the same Kim graded for her 5th Kyu (Blue belt).On the occation I treated myself to a new dogi (karate uniform).I was so nervous and tense - and screwed up a few places. There is now a lot of hard work ahead to get to the 2nd Kyu which is at least another half a year away.Here are some photos from the grading. The ones from the dojo are a bit blurry because they weren't taken from my camera and I don't have the full resolution photos.
20. March 2021 14:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate bruises 20. March 2021 14:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLast year was a tough year with Karate.First the lockdown meant that we had to go online for traininShareLast year was a tough year with Karate.First the lockdown meant that we had to go online for training, but even in the dojo I managed to get a lot of injuries.Some of them visible and some of them not so visible...I have a whole stack of scans and x-rays as souvenirs from this year.Some could have been avoided, but most are just part of the training.I even earned an award for it...The worst one was a kick to my chin. I dont have any photos of it, but I do have the indentation it made on my mouth guard I was wearing at the time. If it hadn't been for the mouthguard I am certain that I would have lost some teeth. This injury could have been avoided.I have now gone out to buy a new and way cooler mouthguard (I created the design myself). It is thors hammer in the middle surrounded by the Fenrir wolf and Midgaards Serpent.Even Kim got a few bruises.
13. March 2021 18:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments My Burmese Dha swords 13. March 2021 18:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetBack in the late 90's I visited Laos. In the northern corner of Laos I acquired two old swords from ShareBack in the late 90's I visited Laos. In the northern corner of Laos I acquired two old swords from a local.Through some forums I have tried to find out as much as I can about them and this is what I have been told:The swords are of a Burmese style called Dha (Means sword in Burmese).They are of museum worthy piecesI should NOT EVER attempt to restore them. This would degrade their value significantly.The flower script design on the swords are reserved for the rulers and officers of those days.အဲဒီဓားတွေကငါတို့ရဲ့ဗမာဓားတွေပဲလာအိုဆိုတာအရင်ကဇင်းမယ်လို့ခေါ်တယ်အင်းဝခေတ်မှာမြန်မာတွေတက်သိမ်းခဲ့တဲ့နိုင်ငံပဲဓားကိုငှက်ကြီးတောင်ဓားလို့ခေါ်တယ်ဓားကဓားကောင်းပဲ အခုငါပြတဲ့ဓားဟာလည်းသမိုင်းဝင်ဓားပဲငှက်ကြီးတောင်ဓားပေါ့ (Translation: These swords are our Burmese swords. Laos was formerly called Zin Mae, a country that was conquered by the Burmese during the Inwa period. The sword is called the Sword of the Bird. The sword is a good sword.).It's a Ngat kyee daung Dah the sword that was once used by Burmese warriors and Thai during the dark age of Konbaung (1765–1767). This Burmese Empire was destroyed during the English colonized to the East and totally wiped out by the English cannons kind of like a scene from the last samurai movie in the end! They were like charging to the enemy where they were being shot at.These are also antique pieces in a good state of preservation! Swords, even if they are in such good condition, belong in the museum. You have to take a look at the Malaysia Sword Museum! They are great specimenOne would have to analyze the material metal wood winding fibers would certainly be very interesting! You don't see such a bundle every dayThe handle on the smaller sword is made from wound rattan fibres.The larger sword is made from silver and wound silver threading (I believe it is the typical not so pure silver/tin that was used).This means that it is likely that the swords are up towards 250 years old and that the long one belonged to someone of a high status. The area they are from is a place that has been ravaged by war for several hundred years right from the wards beween Burma and Siam (Thailand), conquer by the English empire, the Second World War, the Chinese civil war through to the Laos Civil/Vietnam war.It is highly likely that the swords have seen some action. Although a bit rusty, the swords are still very sharp. Given that the blade on the longer sword is narrower at the hilt it is likely that it has been sharpened several times through history. Again this probably means that it had a practical use/purpose and wasn't just for display.
22. January 2021 01:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Newcastle 22. January 2021 01:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetBetween Christmas and New year we made a trip to Newcastle with the family.They had this beautiful lShareBetween Christmas and New year we made a trip to Newcastle with the family.They had this beautiful little animal park that is maintained by the council and is free to visit.Just outside Newcastle is fighterworld, which is an aircraft museum next to an active air strip.Newcastle museum was also worth a visit on a rainy day.One evening we went to the games arcade...no idea how Aiden managed to get a first place in racing.
21. January 2021 18:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate 2020 21. January 2021 18:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKarate during 2020 was challenging to say the least.I was devastated when everything moved online. IShareKarate during 2020 was challenging to say the least.I was devastated when everything moved online. I love the partner work and couldn't see how this was going to work through video conferencing.The boys and Kim were okay with the new format and I hung in there. I was so happy once we were able to get back in the dojo again.Just before the lockdown I had purchased a punching bag, so at least we were able to do some outdoor contact punching.During the lockdown there was a kata competition and other programs, and we did get a few prices....but dojo definitely rules...We have managed to go to gradings...And I have kept all the grading certificated we have gotton...
21. January 2021 14:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Tennis Award 21. January 2021 14:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAnother encouragement award for Aiden. This time in Tennis...ShareAnother encouragement award for Aiden. This time in Tennis...
31. December 2020 14:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Covid 31. December 2020 14:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweet2020 was definitely a bit different because of Covid.Australia managed to get through with very few Share2020 was definitely a bit different because of Covid.Australia managed to get through with very few outbreaks because of very early and sever lockdowns.This let people to panic buy. We spent the time to chill out and solve lots of puzzles in the evenings, do lots of exercise in the parks (which was still allowed), Karate online and work moving fully to conference calls.
31. December 2020 13:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Challenging year 31. December 2020 13:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe last couple of years has been super challenging for Aiden all around.He is struggling all aroundShareThe last couple of years has been super challenging for Aiden all around.He is struggling all around and this photo tells it all. For myself I have been struggling equally, and had it not been for the release of karate I don't know where things would have been at. I often wish I had my own bucket to hide under. I don't think this year will be any easier unfortunately...
8. July 2015 09:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Muay Thai 8. July 2015 09:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne evening I went to see Thai boxing. I asked the rest of the family if anyone wanted to join me, bShareOne evening I went to see Thai boxing or Muay Thai as it is called locally. I asked the rest of the family if anyone wanted to join me, but they all said no (it is the national sport of Thailand). I had been once before long time ago in Bangkok and wanted to experience it again.I decided to pay the bit extra and get a VIP seat right next to the ring and that was definitely worth the extra money.There were 8 fights that evening. The first fight was between two kids around 11 years old. Especially the kid in black shorts was very strong and was dominating the fight throughout.The second fight was between two older teenagers. Again the kid in black was dominating the match.The third fight was between to women, a Canadian and a Thai. The canadian girl looked very relaxed and was definitely ready to fight. The Thai girl had no chance against her and the match ended in knockout.Before each fight they go through this unique dance ritual.I was privileged to sit next to one of the judges who has happy to talk, so between each round I could ask him questions about the scoring system which is rather confusing.The 4th match was between a French and a Thai. The foreigners are really dominating this sport now and the Thai's were generally struggling.As with all the fights wit foreigners this fight also ended in a knockout.The 5th fight was back to two Thais fighting.One of the last fights was between a brazilian and a Thai. When walking into the ring you could tell that the brazil was very strong.He started by kicking the Thai in the chest and then punched him in the face.The fight lasted less than a minute before a knockout.The last fight was more in the heavyweight class, again between a brazilian and a Thai.This fight was full of power and again it ended up in knockout.After the fights I happened see the winners lining up out the back. I managed to get a photo with a couple of them....yeah, I look really convincing there.This evening was definitely one of my highlights from the trip and if we were going back then I would probably go again. The atmosphere is amazing and if the fighters are good then the experience is phenomenal.
6. July 2015 07:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Island trip 6. July 2015 07:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne morning Kim booked a trip out to some of the smaller islands of Phuket.The trip was in a large sShareOne morning Kim booked a trip out to some of the smaller islands of Phuket.The trip was in a large speed boat and initially the family didn't want to go because they were worried about getting seasick, but eventually they changed their minds.The boys loved the experience and were very proud wearing their life jackets.On the island we could feed the fish from the beach.And there was time to play in the water for the boys (and a bit of snorkeling for me).It is also good to see that they are still using their long tail boats for traditional fishing.
5. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Baby elephant 5. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAfter visiting the big Buddha we stopped to feed a baby elephant.The kids were a little overwhelmed ShareAfter visiting the big Buddha we stopped to feed a baby elephant.The kids were a little overwhelmed by its trunk, but fun nevertheless.
4. July 2015 14:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Big Buddha 4. July 2015 14:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAfter Wat Chalong we went up to see the Big Buddha on top of a big hill.The Buddha itself is 45 metrShareAfter Wat Chalong we went up to see the Big Buddha on top of a big hill.The Buddha itself is 45 metres tall and is very impressive.They have been building there for the past 10 years and will probably be building for at least another 10.While there we also did a little prayer for Kim's mum.And Aiden being his cheeky self did the 3 monkeys pose.And they loved the big gongs (which you actually rub rather than gong).Surprisingly they also in a far corner of the compound had some indian gods, but maybe not so surprising since we were close to Myanmar with a large indian based population (lots of Myanmar people in Phuket).
3. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Wat Chalong 3. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne morning we ventured out to see one of the islands biggest temples, the Wat Chalong.It is a magniShareOne morning we ventured out to see one of the islands biggest temples, the Wat Chalong.It is a magnificent temple with lots to see and it was a pity that the rest of the family didn't want to join us.The temple contains what is said to be a bone fragment of buddha.And the temple itself is full of golden buddhas.Outside there are some elephant sculptures and across from that an areas where they fire of ceremonial fireworks which really scared the boys (as seen of Lucas face).< Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 15. September 2000 11:05 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Car in 2000 . . . 15. September 2000 11:05 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetnew car in 2000ShareIn September 2000, just after I returned from my trip to Borneo, I had to buy this new car because my girlfriend had written off my car whilst I was away! *smile* I did not look forward to hunting around for a new car, but I found a good buy locally. This car is a 1997 Ford Futura, with 4.0 litre, 6-cylinder, 220-horsepower, power-steering, central locking and electronic windows (I think I am starting to sound like a car advertisement...) It is pretty much the same colour as my old car, and it feels so nice to drive! As you can see, pretty similar, but I also really miss my old car! It had a lot of computerised features - from a digital odometer, to adjusting the internal temperature of the car. It was a pretty cool car and wished I could have kept it for another few more years. A huge contrast to my first car! It is a red hatchback that I bought early 1998, a few months after I arrived in Australia. But someone wrote it off a few months after I bought it. It was a pretty bad accident, but luckily I was alright. I was only covered by Third Party insurance, and to go through a lot of paperwork just to get reimbursement for the car! 15. August 2000 10:43 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Away from Headquarters . . . 15. August 2000 10:43 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaway from headquartersShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageAway from Headquarters . . .I managed to explore the villages at Silam. The people here wore this white stuff on their faces - I guess their form of sunscreen. These people were refugees from the Philippines. The kids were fighting to fit into the photo! The kids here were really cute.These kids here, had caught a monkey and was trying to sell it at the camp for 5 ringgit (AUD$2.50). No-one wanted to buy it because they knew if they bought it, and set it loose, the kids would just catch it again, and try to sell it. In general, there were lots of great photos at Silam village. One of the helicopter pilots was driving through the jungle roads, took a corner too fast, and had a minor mishap.We headed into Lahad Datu to get some seafood! An escape from camp food. Camp food was disgusting. There were live worms in the vegetables (yes, after cooked). Most of the food was not fresh, and was pretty boring. The seafood was fantastic here. Whenever we had the chance, we ate lots of seafood. Yum... Paul did not get to eat all of the crabs - all of us had a portion of it. Yummm... they were huge, but we did not eat them. They were too big for us to eat, pretty impressive though. They were the biggest lobsters I have seen in my life. We saw these at the same place we ate our seafood and frogs (below). We had this frog for dinner about 2 min after I took the photo. This was actually when I went out with Glen in Kota Kinabalu - he asked me to pick some food and to surprise him. I did not tell him till a year later that he ate frog meat. He asked me what it was, because he reckoned it tasted funny, but I did not tell him at the time. I think he will only eat it again. Only if he really had to. Petronis Towers - the tallest twin towers in the world. Actually, they are the tallest buildings in the world, followed by the Sears Towers in Chicago. The towers are joined by some sort pedestrian platform. These towers are located in Kuala Lumpur. I went to Kuala Lumpur to pick up my Permanent Residency for Australia. Woohoo!!! After 2 years of lots of paperwork, and correspondence back and forth with Berlin, I finally managed to get it! The inconvenience of it all, was that I actually had to leave Australia ie collect my PR before re-entering Australia. Below, is the only photo I have of the Lateral Linking Team that I worked with during the race. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001 15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Helicopters . . . 15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweethelicoptersShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageHelicopters . . .The radio communications team had to arrive a few days before that because we had to hand out over 2,000 pieces of radio equipment. We had problems getting the necessary approvals for helicopters so they were grounded! I ended having to hand out most of the equipment as Glen and Paul had to sort out our use of the helicopters. We had to fly all the equipment to Silam before the start of the race, and our team managed to fly to Silam the day before the race started. Do you believe that Paul managed to take a photo of me whilst I was flying the chopper? He was standing to the side of me, and took the photo at night time, with the door open ... Just kidding. A couple of days before the race started, I was at the airport most of the day. We had some problems with the radios in the helicopters... I must have been in and out of those helicopters at least 200 times. I did manage to get someone to take some photos of me in a helicopter, looking very much like the pilot! I had hoped that I had the time to explore Kota Kinabalue, but we were so busy, it had to wait. Here is the 212 or "Huey" - a twin-turbine Vietnam helicopter taking off. It is a hell a lot more powerful than some of the other helicopters we were using, which were 206s. Here are the medical guys practising abseiling out of the helicopters (Aussie style)! At the start of the race, I was sitting there listening to the first rescue on the radio. 3 hours after the start, four boats had capsized... helicopters and boats were very busy! The competitors were due to arrive at Silam (another checkpoint) the next day (21st Aug). For the first few days after the race started, I had to help organise to get the fuel to the top of the mountain. After that the helicopter came in useful. It brought up 100 litres of fuel on the 4th day so I did not have to ferry fuel anymore! At the end of the race, we had to sling-load the repeaters, to get them off the mountain. That means we had to strap them onto the helicopters, and pull them off the mountains that way - quite effective really. Repeater station finally airborne! You can see a pole in the right photo. My girlfriend asked me what it was for - it helps balance the load so that it does not keep swinging whilst airborne. Below, you will see some pretty good photos from the chopper. Towards the end of the race, we had to scan the rivers for the last competitors coming in - to make sure they had completed this section of the race course. It was low-altitude flying of the river-bed. The photo on the left shows the chopper approaching Silam Village. This village was located just outside of Silam HQ. Glen liked wanted to have a photo of the back of my head - and I ruined the photo by turning my head as he took it... Here's a sunset shot of the helicopters flying around. I had to put in this fantastic photo - the lighting gives a really nice feel to the photo. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001 15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Wildlife in Borneo . . . 15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe wildlife in borneoShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageThe Wildlife in Borneo . . .The jungles in Borneo are really dense, dark and humid. You will find that some of the photos look as though they have been over-exposed, but in reality, it is just the humidity in the air. I have a photo of this at home - Glen enlarged it for me, and framed it! Don't ask me why - I think I look rather wasted there. Glen and I tried to race through the jungle. The climb to the top of the mountain is rated as a 1.5 hour climb... Glen and I have done it in 26 minutes... actually I was confident that I could do it in less than 20 and so I did! I held the record of taking 17 minutes to race to the top of Mt Silam, covering a distance of approx 4 kilometres through the jungle, up a mountain. I was getting really fit (My girlfriend was proud of me). This photo shows how dense and dark the jungle can be. It was so humid there... no, not because I hadn't cleaned my lenses. You can see how muddy it is in the jungle - I became quite dirty after many trips into the jungle. I think these trees are just as big as the Californian Redwoods. They might not be as old, but definitely just as big. This was taken with a 300mm lens, from 1.5 metres. The most amazing thing about them, is when they are scared, the curl up into little "marbles". It looks like a small bug, but it is actually at least 7cm long, which is actually quite big. I noticed in Borneo, most of the insects there were huge. The wingspan of the brown moth was about 15cm wide - huge! They are mostly active at night, which is quite common for creatures in the jungle. A couple of the girls stationed in the jungles, was stationed here. Not a wise decision, considering these girls were paranoid about the insects. (Note: in the photo below, I still had conjunctivitis) I had the red eyes for most of the trip. Big and beautiful, don't you think? You can see how big the black moth is compared to the size of the telephone. These plants were kind of special because each branch split into two, so by the end of it, they formed a hexagonal pattern. Below, are plants known as the "pitcher" plant. The pitcher plants are meat-eating plants - you have watch out not to fall into them because they will swallow you whole. If you just believed that, you are very gullible! *laugh* The pitcher plant, like other carnivorous plants, feed on insects. They have sweet-smelling nectar that attract the unsuspecting insect to it. When the insect lands, it finds the surface slippery and fall straight into the “pitcher”, where the plants juices drowns it and is digested by the plant. You may have heard of other type of carnivorous plants such as the Venus Fly Trap, and the Sundew plants. Yes, you see me holding the snake with a leaf. It was a poisonous snake, and I was worried about it's venom getting on my skin. For example a puff adder, contact with the venom numbs the skin. I was not familiar with the snakes in Borneo, and was not about to risk it. The tarantella was sitting inside the catering tent hunting. Everyone was looking at it and admiring it, which was pretty amazing, considering I know many people who would willingly kill a spider in sight. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001 15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Repeater Stations . . . 15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetrepeater stationsShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageRepeater Stations . . .Here, you see Paul and I transporting some of the repeater stations by air. From Silam, we flew down to DFVC. We stayed there for three days before going back to Silam. I am at one of the repeater sites. Here, the top of one of the mountains was cleared, so we could safely land a helicopter there. Oh... did I forget to mention that I almost chopped one of my fingers in half at the repeater site? On top of my infected eye, I had another thing for the medical team to look at. The fingernail had been chopped in half and there was not much I could do about it except clean it up and try to avoid infections. The medical team was great there... they were extremely good. We had a few problems with some of the communications gear. Paul and Glen were handling it, and at times I tried to assist. The first few days had been really tough. The top of Silam is covered in clouds for most of the afternoons, so the solar panels are quite useless. A survey of the conditions made prior to the race was useless. If you ask any of the locals, they would have told us that the peak is always covered in clouds... but apparently no-one asked them!!! We had problems keeping the generators running - they were using more power than predicted and there was no sun on the top of Silam to recharge the batteries. The generator itself was a re-built petrol engine with a car alternator on it. We basically tried to use a system where we used a jerry can, cut holes into it, and relied on the force of gravity to transport the fuel to the generator. This design ended up working best for us. Our helicopter pilot sitting on the side there, just grinning... On the third day of the race, I hiked up the mountain three times. I was really tired and all I could think of was getting a bit of a rest and some food. I managed to get a bit once I got to Danum. In Danum I managed to get 6 hours sleep before someone woke me up and told me that the repeater had died in Silam... again all the cars had to leave in a convoy... so rush, rush to find my driver and managed (just) to get into the convoy! The road to Danum closes at 6.30pm and all the cars had to go in the convoy. The helicopter flew all of us to the top of the mountain, and waited there for us till we were finished. Glen quite often told the pilot, "You don't have to shut down, because we'll only be here for 5 minutes." Well... quite often, we were there for as long as an hour and half! (Don't worry, the pilot was sensible enough to shut down immediately... he got to know Glen very well.) I went up there often make sure that it was still running. It is much better getting a helicopter to fly me up there so that I can bring some fuel with me ! Glen has mostly been on top of the mountain getting the generator back online. We have to keep the generator running 24 hours per day until the end of the race. On the third night after the race started, one of the repeaters went dead. I had to hike up the mountain on the previous day as the generator had died. I did not leave the mountain until it was dark, so I had to climb down through the jungle in the dark! Fortunately I had my torch with me! Paul later gave me strict instructions to make sure that I leave the mountain so that I could be back at HQ while there was still light! I found out that I did not have any problems navigating at night... I even offered Paul to go back up when the repeater died! Anyhow, we ended up having to send the airborne repeater up! Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001 15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Competitors . . . 15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe competitorsShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageThe Competitors . . .The competitors did not rest... three of the teams were half way through the 600 kilometre course after only three days... pretty amazing! Two of the teams were Australian. 18 teams were out of the race. At least 10 of these were due to medical problems. Hardly any people around here get enough sleep... the place is active 24 hours per day because there are always competitors coming in! I was keen to find out how the Danish team would turn out. At the beginning of the race, they were not very sociable. But by the end of the race, I think the tension of the race had gone, and I managed to have a chat with them. By the third day, the Danes are doing pretty well... they had a 22nd place! This was the mountain-bike leg of the race. The guy you see being transported to hospital in the helicopter (photos below), was doing this part of the race. He was rounding a corner on his bike and rode straight into a large branch. We had a lot of medical urgencies... we almost lost a guy with a punctured lung ! I got some great photos and helped getting the guy into the mobile hospital. There was a lot publicity on the website and through the media about it. Fortunately, he was only 15 minutes away from HQ, so it was possible for us to get him to the helicopter very quickly, and to the nearest hospital. Another leg of the race involved rowing in these “sampans”, a Malay term for “boat”. At some point, the teams in the race had to also split up - some of them swimming, some of them rowing, to complete the water leg of the race. Below, the competitors had to use a flying fox to cross the canyons. I managed to have a go at it - compared to rock-climbing... well, I found it pretty boring *smile*. I imagine most people would find it quite fun though. There are no places to climb here. I had hoped to take one of the helicopters to Madai Caves to check out the 200 metre abseil. The road to the Madai Caves lead directly through the tiny village of Gua Madai - a small cluster of homes, their wood bleached grey. The town’s main sources of income are tourism and birds’ nests. The nests are found high up the walls of the cave, tucked away in cracks and crevasses, and can command thousands of dollars. They are harvested about three times a year. My girlfriend mentioned trying "bird's nest soup" whilst I was there. She said normally the bird's nest they use belong to the swallow. It is a delicacy to many Asians, and similar to shark's fin soup - that is if you have tried it. Normally the nests are made out of the birds' saliva. There was so much rain at Silam that HQ was often flooded. Many of the competitors took the opportunity to get some sleep and the slept on whatever they could find. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001 15. August 2000 10:40 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Silam and Jungle Ops . . . 15. August 2000 10:40 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsilam and jungle opsShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageSilam and Jungle Ops . . .It is so bloody hot in Silam! It must have been at least 40 degrees and 100% humidity! Silam was the overall headquarters, and Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) was referred to as Jungle Ops. Jungle Ops controlled all radio communications and conducted the race through the the jungle. From Kota Kinabalu, we flew to Lahad Datu and drove the rest of the way to Silam. Silam was the site of one of the repeater stations. We had to set up a HQ a few kilometres from this station... heaps of opportunities for a few walks in the jungle. The operation at Silam was huge!... I had never seen such a busy place before. The place was crawling with energy. It was bigger than any military operation I had ever seen! You would be amazed to see the logistics involved in this project ! At the time I did not have the time to take a lot of photos. We had many army trucks transporting the competitors' equipment - very good cooperation from the military. They helped out with the preparation and set-up of HQ, and with the transportation of fuel. This is the headquarters on the left. The whole Ecochallenge race is governed from this office. The map in the background contains the position of all the checkpoints at which the competitors have to go through. Both of the above photos are aerial shots of HQ and were taken from a helicopter. I managed to get a nice aerial shot of Silam HQ. The big white patch in the middle is where the competitors stored all their equipment. Just to the left are the containers from where the race is controlled. The 4 'finger-like' white pads on the right are the heli-pads. The long rectangle to the left is the eating area, and just above it is the hospital. Approaching DVFC in helicopter. This is actually a research centre in the middle of the jungle - commonly known as DVFC (Danum Valley Field Centre). DVFC is not normally accessible the tourists and the general public, only to researchers. DVFC is concerned about contamination into the jungle. Outside Jungle Ops HQ. The green boxes contain bottled drinking water. By the time the race was over, most of this had been consumed - quite amazing really, considering there were really only 10 people at Jungle Ops. During the competitors were not allowed any help from us, and that included the provision of drinking water. Paul with some of the radio equipment at Silam. He is standing next to the HQ matrix, which contained all the communications equipment for headquarters. Paul is also standing next to the only 2 beds in the HQ building. These were used by the radio operators to nap in between shifts. Below, you see me sitting in the catering tent at Silam. I think it must have been a good day, to have been sitting there, smiling... I am just guessing here, because obviously I did not take the photo, and I cannot remerber the place. Bad hair day? I did not have a shower for a very long time, and to hold my hair in place, I adopted various techniques, such as the sunglasses-hairband... This place is a breathing ground for tropical diseases! As you can see, my right eye is really red. I somehow managed to get conjunctivitis and did not know it was contagious. I did not want to trouble the medics as they were pretty tied up with the competitors. When my vision on the left eye was getting blurry and I had problems seeing what was in front of me, I was ordered to get it checked. Just as well I did! In Kota Kinabalu, I had the same problem on the other eye... at one point both my eyes were infected. It started on my left eye on the way to Kota Kinabalu in the plane ! It then spread to my right eye. The nurse at Silam told me that I should be careful because it could re-infect to my left eye. It started to look and feel a lot better after using the eyedrops that they gave me. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001 15. August 2000 10:39 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Preparations at the Magellan Hotel 15. August 2000 10:39 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetpreparations at the magellan hotelShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillagePreparations at the Magellan Hotel ( Kota Kinabalu ) . . .All the Ecochallenge teams gathered together at the Magellan Hotel in anticipation of the race, which was due to start on 20th August. During our stay at Kota Kinabalu, we were staying at the most extravagant hotel - as pictured on the right. It is huge! It has 3 swimming pools, and takes us an hour to walk around the perimeter. The radio communications team had to arrive a few days before the start of the race because we had to hand out over 2,000 pieces of radio equipment. We had problems getting the necessary approvals for helicopters so I ended up having to hand out most of the equipment whilst Glen and Paul sorted out the issue of the helicopters. We had to get all the equipment and our team to Silam before the the race started. Glen and Paul checking all the equipment and re-programming some of the radios. Behind me are all the radio equipment, ready to be handed out. I am standing here waiting for the competitors to arrive as I have to sign out the equipment as I give them out. We had to improvise a lot of the furniture, using old crates to set up tables. After the race, Glen and I decided to make most of the luxury and just veg... aaahhh... bliss! Created: 7 Dec 2001 Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 22. August 2019 13:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden - awards card 22. August 2019 13:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is not often that Aiden gets an award for good work at school, but when he does, he is very proudShareIt is not often that Aiden gets an award for good work at school, but when he does, he is very proud. 10. August 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Camping - Barrington Tops 10. August 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetEarlier in the year at Easter time we went camping up at Barrington Tops 5 hours drive north of SydnShareEarlier in the year at Easter time we went camping up at Barrington Tops 5 hours drive north of Sydney.It is a very tall mountain range with some excellent walks, rivers etc.We had a great weekend with friends sitting around the fire roasting marshmellows, walking and canoeing. 23. July 2019 10:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kyoto - Fushimi Inari Shrine 23. July 2019 10:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetShare 8. July 2019 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate - Boys getting their red belts 8. July 2019 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetFairly recently we started the boys on Karate.We thought it would be a good activity for them to buiShareFairly recently we started the boys on Karate.We thought it would be a good activity for them to build strength, motor skills and discipline.Especially Aiden is really enjoying it and putting in the hard work at home practicing. He has become stronger throughout the classes which is great. Before we started he had almost no core strength and now he is able to do sit-ups and pushups.This weekend both Aiden and Lucas were pulled up for their first proper graduation from the white belts to the red belts and they both passed. 17. June 2019 20:06 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Bali - 2018 17. June 2019 20:06 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetPhotos from out trip to Bali with a couple of friends and kids.SharePhotos from out trip to Bali with a couple of friends and kids. 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Japan - Osaka aquarium 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe Osaka aquarium is massive and very impressive. The centre piece is the massive tank in the middlShareThe Osaka aquarium is massive and very impressive. The centre piece is the massive tank in the middle with two large whale sharks and which is also full of other sharks such as hammerheads. 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Japan - Dontonburi Osaka 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetTontonburi is know as the chefs/kitchen area. Here you can buy everything needed for a japanese restShareTontonburi is know as the chefs/kitchen area. Here you can buy everything needed for a japanese restaurant.It is also full of actual restaurants and other oddities such as more exotic places. It has what is known as Osaka's best Ramen restaurant (the one with the long counter in the photos below) - and Yes, the Ramen was very good.Here it is also possible to eat specialties such as the Puffa fish.It was also one of the few places where I saw real Samurai swords for sale. Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Walking 29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden walkingShareIt is the 29th February and the last day of the bet I had with Kim....and believe it or not, but Aiden started walking by himself today.We are very proud of him and I am double proud of him as he delivered the goods just in the nick of time...one day later and I would have been cleaning the house (lucky that this year is a leap year)! 19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Standing by himself 19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden standing by himselfShareAiden is now able to stand up by himself.He is now 20 months and should have been walking ages ago, so he is a bit behind on that front. Hopefully I can get him to take one step before the end of next week...I have a bet with Kim going whether he will walk before the end of February. 5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Centennial Park - Feb 2012 5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetcentennial park feb 2012ShareToday we went to Centennial Park to take some family photos. I had been complaining that I didn't have enough (good) photos of myself and Aiden so Kim offered to take some.We found a nice spot in the park and managed to take a couple of shots before my camera ran out of battery...and unfortunately I had forgotten my spare at home.Kim just came back from a business trip to Singapore a couple of days ago and it is really nice to have her back. I missed her but I am not sure Aiden missed her as much as he is such a daddys boy. When she was back he just turned away and would rather stay with me.Also the little tiger is now 20 months and he is still not walking...what is going on? 29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Ronan Keating Concert 29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetronan keating concertShare Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2021 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual ChrisShareThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual Christmas photo.Kims dad is staying at Kims sisters place over Christmas after haing been in hospital. He is looking the best he has for years. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Surfing 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great tShareLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great time.Because he liked it so much we decided to get him (and Aiden) a surfboard for Christmas as well. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Various 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the mShareThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the middle of winterAidens Learning awardEmpty Maroubra Beach during covid lockdownSeafood dinner with familyChillies harvested from the gardenCooking lobster at home during lockdownSpotted Herbie in our local areaMonkeys in a treePlaying games at home during Covid lockdownEnjoying a hot chocolate during Covid lockdownBoys make a mess and have to clean the houseDinner at home during Covid lockdownConference call with family during Covid lockdownHow many people can you fit into a dinghy?Pho at the local cafeGoing for a walk after Covid restrictions liftedOn a conference call with Dalai Lama from homeKim received a Hoodie to keep her warm in the cold winter evenings. I thought it was something else and wrote instructions on the packaging.Aidens birthday was bowling with his friends and dinner with familyKim dressed appropriately for walking 20 meters to the carThe boys learning to use a hammer.Spending time at Yarra bayAiden still struggling, although him now having a piano seems to help him.Lucas got some more awards at the Athletics carnival to add to his swimming awards. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Guinea Pigs 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was aShareWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was away.The boys had to do all the work cleaning and feeding them. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I ShareAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I treated myself to a new gi (uniform) when I graduated to my 3rd Kyu. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Chess 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. ShareLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. I was very proud that I one day managed to checkmate him with just two pawns and my king. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Piano and Guitar 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to stShareMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to start playing as well.We have been using an online lesson system and it has been working really well for us. Especially Aiden seems to pick it up quickly.Aiden has also been begging to get an electric guitar, so this Christmas we got him one. It is fortunate that the same online lesson subscription also covers guitar playing. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims 50th 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with justShareKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with just a family dinner.Plan: A - Europe trip - Covid cancelledB - New Zealand Ski trip (travel bubble was open) - Cancelled day before we were to leaveC - Staycation in Sydney - Locked down to local councilD - Staycation in same council - Restricted to 5 Km radiusE - Dinner at homeWe did however make up for it later with some golf and spa while she wasn't working. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wShareWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wine. 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Basketball Game 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we toShareKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we took the boys. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Driving and Various 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayedShareThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayed the first night.Next day we drove through Arthurs Pass to Franz Josef (a long drive) where we stayed for three nights. This was mainly so that we had a spare day in case the weather closed in and we couldn't fly to the glacier.From there we drove to Queenstown via Wanaka and the Crowns Range (another long drive). We were lucky that this was open and that snow chains weren't required.Here we stayed for 5 nights whereafter we went to Twizel near Mount Cook for two night.Lastly we drive back to Christchurch to fly out.Queenstown is a scenic place, but lost of other scenic places along the way. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Pukaki chapel 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographeShareAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographed location and much more busy than I remember it. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Skiing 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were wShareAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were with me the other two days. Some friends of our joined us in Queenstown, so for the other days I had Tod to go with, who is a very decent snowboarder.Aiden and Lucas are both becoming good skiers, but especially Lucas is getting really good to the point where I can bring him onto black runs.Although Kim is still very much a beginner she still did two days of skiing sticking to the beginner slope where there is a 'magic carpet' lift. I did see some improvement to last year, but she is still too scared to go on the proper lifts.I bought my own ski boots last year and brought them along (my feet are not compatible with rental ski boots). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - West coast 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot oShareThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot of tourists either as it is hard to get to.We did a lot of walks in the area both around beautiful lakes and also at the beach outside Fox Glacier and Franz Josef villages. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Wanaka and the famous most photographed tree. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a smShareDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a small place with maybe fifty houses, but now it is a proper town with lots of cars and traffic.It is very scenic approaching Lake Wanaka, and the lake itself has this tree growing in the water that photographers from all around the world come here to take photos of. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lindis Pass 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't thinkShareA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't think much of it, but since I visited it the first time, I've alwas found the rolling hills and the colours absolutely stunning. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Glacier Tour 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that woulShareKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that would take up up on a section of the glacier between the two major ice falls.This is a section of the glacier that Andy and I dreaded having to walk through 20 years ago when we were climbing higher up on the glacier. Mind you, back then there was probably another 100 metres of ice on top of where we landed on this day. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Castle Hill Boulders 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomShareDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomenal place to go climbing if you are a good boulderer. It is also quite scenic to just go for a walk.We saw lots of people with their bouldering mats (a soft mat to land on when you are climbing). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Mount Cook 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk wheShareAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk where you walk past the Tasman Glacier and Muller Glacier before you eventually come to the Hooker Glacier lake.The lake was frozen with an iceberg floating around in it. 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day - 2022 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oaShareAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oat balls). << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 6 Months - Pictured and Framed 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 6 monthsShareLucas is now 6 months and is enjoying the easy life...On the weekend we went down to La Perouse to do these creative shots of him at sunset.I always said that I would take a photo of him and put it in a frame...but not sure if this is what everyone had in mind. It was pretty good fun trying to set it all up. A lot of other walkers on the beach were wondering what we were doing.I have been planning this photo for a while. The frame I had picked up from a garbage collection day last month outside a block of units with this particular photo in mind. The chair and table are bath aids and foot stools from home. It was really cool to see everything come together in the end. Unfortunately we missed just the end of the sunset as there were a few clouds on the horizon. A lot of lessons learnt came out of it. Even though the photos came out almost as I had envisioned...I still had a few things that I could have done better....just small things such as two flashes to light frame and Lucas independently, CTO gelling the flash to match the ambient, using an umbrella to avoid hard shadows, bringing a mid range zoom to have more composition options and be able to get a bit closer, use black string to hold up the frame instead of white, bring a pillow to keep his head up and then stripping his clothes and then bring my light meter to check the setting to start with instead of chimping.It was the first time I've used the D800 for this (in the past I've been using my D50 with a different shutter system) and I was worried that I wouldn't be able to balance out the ambient with the flash and still stay below the sync speed...but it worked out like a charm...or maybe I was just lucky! 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims Kitchen - Raspberries Creme Brulee 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkims kitchen raspberries creme bruleeShareLast night Kim made a very nice Creme Brulee...Yummiiiii!!!!She asked me to take a couple of photos which I think turned out quite nicely. 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Wildlife Park 2013 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney wildlife park 2013ShareOn the weekend we went to the Sydney Wildlife Park at Darling Harbour.It was good fun to show Aiden all the different animals (Although he was pretty tired by the end).The highlight of the exhibition is the 4.5 meter long Saltie (Saltwater Crocodile). He is such a darling and he loved his girlfriends so much that he had them over for dinner (Ha Ha). Aiden wasn't sure about the crocodiles and definitely wasn't happy with the big mouth and all the sharp teeth......Daddy came to the rescue and threw himself at the monster.He was a bit more happy with the smaller cuddlier animals...Such as the wombats......the Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies......or even the Tasmanian Devil.The start of the exhibition is pretty amazing as you wank through a large enclosure with lots of butterflies flying around.And besides from that there is of cause a lot of lizards, frogs and snakes on display. 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 5 Months 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 5 months youngShareLucas is now 5 months and we did his monthly photos the other day together with Aiden. This also gave me an excuse to try out the new strobe I bought for photography (an Alien Bee B800) and it worked out great...so much better than trying to use multiple flashes inside a softbox to get enough power.Aiden and Lucas are already ganging up on us and sitting giggling together. They absolutely adore eachother although Aiden sometime can get a little rough with Lucas.Afterwards we went to the local Park to have a bit of a play (see previous post with photos of Aiden). 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden at Boralee Park 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden at boralee parkShareThe other day we visited Boralee Park to let Aiden play and to take some photos of Lucas.Aiden is now definitely less afraid of playing and is quite happy zooming down the slides by himself...although he is a little cautious about the swing unless showing off in front of Lucas. 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Aquarium 2013 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney aquarium 2013Share <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en"> <head profile="http://gmpg.org/xfn/11"><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /> <link rel="contents" title="Archive" href="/archive" /> <link rel="start" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="/" /> <link type="application/rsd+xml" rel="edituri" title="RSD" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/rsd.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="SIOC" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/sioc.axd" /> <link type="application/apml+xml" rel="meta" title="APML" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/apml.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="FOAF" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/foaf.axd" /> <link type="application/rss+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (RSS)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd" /> <link type="application/atom+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (ATOM)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd?format=atom" /> <link type="application/opensearchdescription+xml" rel="search" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/opensearch.axd" /> <link href="/Content/Auto/Global.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0, maximum-scale=1.0, user-scalable=0" /> <script type="text/javascript" src="/en.res.axd"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/01-jquery-1.9.1.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/02-jquery.cookie.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/04-jquery-jtemplates.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/05-json2.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/blog.js"></script> <!--[if lt IE 9]> <script src="/themes/yoko/js/html5.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <![endif]--> <link rel="shortcut icon" href="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/photo.ico" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="themes/PerfectMomentsLight/style.css" type="text/css" /><link rel="shortcut icon" href="favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" /> <script type="text/javascript"> function opacity(id, opacStart, opacEnd, millisec) { //speed for each frame var speed = Math.round(millisec / 100); var timer = 0; //determine the direction for the blending, if start and end are the same nothing happens if (opacStart > opacEnd) { for (i = opacStart; i >= opacEnd; i--) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("slideInfoObject.height='0px';slideInfoObject.visibility='hidden';", (timer++ * speed)); } else if (opacStart < opacEnd) { slideInfoObject.height = "50px"; slideInfoObject.visibility = "visible"; for (i = opacStart; i <= opacEnd; i++) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("opacity('" + id + "', 70, 0, " + millisec + ");", 3000); } } //change the opacity for different browsers function changeOpac(opacity, id) { //var object = document.getElementById(id).style; slideInfoObject.opacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.MozOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.KhtmlOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.filter = "alpha(opacity=" + opacity + ")"; } </script> <meta name="description" content="A Rene Pallesen Journal" /> <meta name="keywords" content="Blog,1997,1998,1999,2000,2001,2002,2003,2004,2005,2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016,2017,2018,2019,2020,2021,2022,2023,Book,Family,Aiden,Kim,Lucas,Rene,Travel,test" /> <meta name="author" content="Rene Pallesen" /><title> Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal </title></head> <body class="home blog"> <div id="page" class="clearfix"> <form method="post" action="/?callback=..%2F..%2F..%2F..%2Fetc%2Fhosts&page=48" onsubmit="javascript:return WebForm_OnSubmit();" id="aspnetForm"> <div class="aspNetHidden"> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTTARGET" id="__EVENTTARGET" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTARGUMENT" id="__EVENTARGUMENT" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__VIEWSTATE" id="__VIEWSTATE" value="dK1YEp78m4VRKhoscdY1+0XYF5hxbaLr4sH6f+s++slMVMHxA/x33YV7vlIUfdmAiYqaqmadY9u4EtgJk/8CVkKifT82rU3Rnfo8mP9felEIq41nlHctS4y2EXJJ/c7HcJv4kJQdppyJf7wtJz2bHkZBYrs98027nte/ABxOteh2IRdd" /> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ var theForm = document.forms['aspnetForm']; if (!theForm) { theForm = document.aspnetForm; } function __doPostBack(eventTarget, eventArgument) { if (!theForm.onsubmit || (theForm.onsubmit() != false)) { theForm.__EVENTTARGET.value = eventTarget; theForm.__EVENTARGUMENT.value = eventArgument; theForm.submit(); } } //]]> </script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=pynGkmcFUV13He1Qd6_TZKFmBG-AUY7YwSX-Eh_-So8UKa0fIVRDpGlQdJn4r3q4SNLVEw2&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=x2nkrMJGXkMELz33nwnakCtZ34Mn6eBLBMlvZVv4Wb4Oh2imzvaEcSb41UN__ZKr_-NEfxOm8xbKr0mL-Fcwb5JstEM1&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ function WebForm_OnSubmit() { if (typeof(ValidatorOnSubmit) == "function" && ValidatorOnSubmit() == false) return false; return true; } //]]> </script> <header id="branding"> <nav class="clearfix" id="mainnav"> <div class="menu-page-menu-container"> <ul class="menu" id="menu-page-menu"> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/blog.aspx">Blog</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/portfolio-main">Portfolio</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/page/packages">Packages</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/contact.aspx">Contact</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/about-me">About</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd"><img src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/logo_rss.png" /></a></li> </ul> </div> </nav> <hgroup id="site-title"> <h2><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home">Home</a></h2> </hgroup> <div id="headerphoto" > <a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home"><img width="1100" height="176" alt="" class="headerimage" src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/PMlogo.jpg"></a> </div> </header> <div id="wrap"> <div id="main"> <div id="content"> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_divError"></div> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_PostList1_posts" class="posts"> <article class="post" id="post0"> <div class="entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01<br> by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a> </p> </div> <header class="entry-header"> <h2 class="entry-title"><a href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" class="taggedlink">Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012</a></h2> <div class="single-entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01 by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a> | <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a></p> </div> </header> <div class="entry-content"> <div id="AdnTop"><div class="AdnTopLeft" style="float:left"></div><div class="AdnTopRight" style="float:right"><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="TwitterButton"><div><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" data-text="Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012" data-count="horizontal">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><script id="PlusOne" src="https://apis.google.com/js/plusone.js" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="PlusOneButton"><div><g:plusone href="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" size="medium"></g:plusone></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="DiggButton"><div><script type="text/javascript">(function() {var s = document.createElement('SCRIPT'), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName('SCRIPT')[0];s.type = 'text/javascript';s.async = true;s.src = 'http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js';s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1);})();</script><a href="http://digg.com/submit?url=http%3a%2f%2fperfectmoments.photography%2fpost%2fSydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&title=Sydney+Hobart+Yacht+Race+2012" class="DiggThisButton DiggCompact"><span style=" display:none">sydney hobart yacht race 2012</span></a></div></div><script id="FacebookShare" src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookShareButton"><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" share_url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" type="button_count">Share</a></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookLikeButton"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&show_faces=false&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=21&layout=button_count&width=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" style="border:none;overflow:hidden;width:80px;height:21px"> My Dad wanted to see the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race again this year. Unlike the last time we were there in good time this year and found a great parking spot and a fairly good vantage point of the race without too many crowds. While waiting for the race to start the James Craig was cruising back and forth outside the harbour. Once the race started and the boats passed the heads it became very busy both on the water and it in air with all the boats and helicopters (at one point I counted 11 at the same time) and my Dad was busy clicking away. This year turned out to be a new course record, so great conditions all the way to Hobart. 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day 2012 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas day 2012Share Christmas Day we celebrated with Kims family at her sisters house. It was the usual crowd of our familys and everyone bringing dishes to share and as usual there was a lot of different foods to try. It was great to have the whole family together (Aiden was again eating too much). And even Santa made an appearance again this year...Thank you so much Santa!!!!! 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Eve 2012 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas eve 2012ShareThis year we celebrated Christmas at home with my Dad and his partner with the traditional Christmas Duck and Ris-a-la-mande. It was Lucas' first and Aiden's third Christmas...Aiden is now getting old enough to enjoy the experience... ...especially the food After dinner we opened presents according to the Danish tradition and Aiden was very excited about the big box from Bedstefar... ...containing a big truck. From Mummy and Daddy he received a Lightning Mcqueen car (radio controlled). ...and also a drawing pad. Merry Christmas... 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Maroubra Beach December 2012 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmaroubra beach december 2012ShareOn one of the days we took my dad to Maroubra beach for breakfast.It gave them a chance to check out what out local beach is like and also Aiden a chance to have a bit of a play in the sand. 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kids Dad with Grandchildren 2012 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkids dad with grandchildren 2012ShareAt around Christmas time Kims dad asked me if I could take some more photos of him and the grandchildren.Last year I took some of him using a blue background and he asked for something similar (although I am not a big fan of blue) 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Family Photo 2012 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas family photo 2012Share Every year I like to take a Christmas family photo. This year having my dad around meant that I could get hime to assist us with taking the photo as I needed someone to stand on a ladder taking the photo while we as a family was lying plat on a bed. Merry Christmas 2012 Everyone!!!! 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Matraville Christmas Lights 2012 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmatraville christmas lights 2012ShareEvery year some of the houses in Matraville puts on a spectacular christmas light show. Every night there are hundreds of visitors and it is worth seeing. Here are some of the lights from this years show. 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Barrenjoey Lighthouse 2012 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbarrenjoey lighthouse 2012ShareThis holiday season my Dad and his partner is visiting us from Denmark. It has been a while since he was here and in also a while since we were in Denmark, so Aiden had grown a fair bit since. The first couple of weeks we bought then some trips to various places such as Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains. One the weekends we would treat then to various dinners Thai, Indian, Moroccan, Brazilian, Aussie, Chinese etc. as well as try to make time to take them to see some of the sights around Sydney. The first weekend Aiden was sick so we had to cancel our trip up the Northern Beaches to Barrenjoey Lighthouse so we had to stay home and let them explore by themself. On the second weekend we managed to go there and bring Aiden along as well sitting in his little backback. It was a warm day and the climb is fairly steep so especially my dads partner was pretty hot by the time we reached the top where the light house is. The view was definitely worth it. Walking back along the beach we decided to make a drink stop to clench the thirst. 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Merry Christmas 2012 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmerry christmas 2012ShareFirst of all Merry Christmas everyone!!! With a bit of arm twisting Kim finally agreed to let me do a series of 'sexy' Santa photos.A lot of work had to go into these couple of photos in terms of getting the outfit, but the right colour wrapping paper, wrap all the boxes, set them up to it looks nice, getting all the lighting right and not least convince Kim to do the actual shoot.Then I had to sort out the photos I needed and then do all the editing...I think the end result is pretty good and very much in the spirit of Christmas.And did I mention that I am married to the most beautiful (and sexy) Santa there is??? 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 3 months 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 3 monthsShareLucas is now three months young and the other day I did a series of monthly photos of Kim and him on our bed. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...444546474849505152...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you
15. September 2000 11:05 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Car in 2000 . . . 15. September 2000 11:05 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetnew car in 2000ShareIn September 2000, just after I returned from my trip to Borneo, I had to buy this new car because my girlfriend had written off my car whilst I was away! *smile* I did not look forward to hunting around for a new car, but I found a good buy locally. This car is a 1997 Ford Futura, with 4.0 litre, 6-cylinder, 220-horsepower, power-steering, central locking and electronic windows (I think I am starting to sound like a car advertisement...) It is pretty much the same colour as my old car, and it feels so nice to drive! As you can see, pretty similar, but I also really miss my old car! It had a lot of computerised features - from a digital odometer, to adjusting the internal temperature of the car. It was a pretty cool car and wished I could have kept it for another few more years. A huge contrast to my first car! It is a red hatchback that I bought early 1998, a few months after I arrived in Australia. But someone wrote it off a few months after I bought it. It was a pretty bad accident, but luckily I was alright. I was only covered by Third Party insurance, and to go through a lot of paperwork just to get reimbursement for the car!
15. August 2000 10:43 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Away from Headquarters . . . 15. August 2000 10:43 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaway from headquartersShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageAway from Headquarters . . .I managed to explore the villages at Silam. The people here wore this white stuff on their faces - I guess their form of sunscreen. These people were refugees from the Philippines. The kids were fighting to fit into the photo! The kids here were really cute.These kids here, had caught a monkey and was trying to sell it at the camp for 5 ringgit (AUD$2.50). No-one wanted to buy it because they knew if they bought it, and set it loose, the kids would just catch it again, and try to sell it. In general, there were lots of great photos at Silam village. One of the helicopter pilots was driving through the jungle roads, took a corner too fast, and had a minor mishap.We headed into Lahad Datu to get some seafood! An escape from camp food. Camp food was disgusting. There were live worms in the vegetables (yes, after cooked). Most of the food was not fresh, and was pretty boring. The seafood was fantastic here. Whenever we had the chance, we ate lots of seafood. Yum... Paul did not get to eat all of the crabs - all of us had a portion of it. Yummm... they were huge, but we did not eat them. They were too big for us to eat, pretty impressive though. They were the biggest lobsters I have seen in my life. We saw these at the same place we ate our seafood and frogs (below). We had this frog for dinner about 2 min after I took the photo. This was actually when I went out with Glen in Kota Kinabalu - he asked me to pick some food and to surprise him. I did not tell him till a year later that he ate frog meat. He asked me what it was, because he reckoned it tasted funny, but I did not tell him at the time. I think he will only eat it again. Only if he really had to. Petronis Towers - the tallest twin towers in the world. Actually, they are the tallest buildings in the world, followed by the Sears Towers in Chicago. The towers are joined by some sort pedestrian platform. These towers are located in Kuala Lumpur. I went to Kuala Lumpur to pick up my Permanent Residency for Australia. Woohoo!!! After 2 years of lots of paperwork, and correspondence back and forth with Berlin, I finally managed to get it! The inconvenience of it all, was that I actually had to leave Australia ie collect my PR before re-entering Australia. Below, is the only photo I have of the Lateral Linking Team that I worked with during the race. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001
15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Helicopters . . . 15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweethelicoptersShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageHelicopters . . .The radio communications team had to arrive a few days before that because we had to hand out over 2,000 pieces of radio equipment. We had problems getting the necessary approvals for helicopters so they were grounded! I ended having to hand out most of the equipment as Glen and Paul had to sort out our use of the helicopters. We had to fly all the equipment to Silam before the start of the race, and our team managed to fly to Silam the day before the race started. Do you believe that Paul managed to take a photo of me whilst I was flying the chopper? He was standing to the side of me, and took the photo at night time, with the door open ... Just kidding. A couple of days before the race started, I was at the airport most of the day. We had some problems with the radios in the helicopters... I must have been in and out of those helicopters at least 200 times. I did manage to get someone to take some photos of me in a helicopter, looking very much like the pilot! I had hoped that I had the time to explore Kota Kinabalue, but we were so busy, it had to wait. Here is the 212 or "Huey" - a twin-turbine Vietnam helicopter taking off. It is a hell a lot more powerful than some of the other helicopters we were using, which were 206s. Here are the medical guys practising abseiling out of the helicopters (Aussie style)! At the start of the race, I was sitting there listening to the first rescue on the radio. 3 hours after the start, four boats had capsized... helicopters and boats were very busy! The competitors were due to arrive at Silam (another checkpoint) the next day (21st Aug). For the first few days after the race started, I had to help organise to get the fuel to the top of the mountain. After that the helicopter came in useful. It brought up 100 litres of fuel on the 4th day so I did not have to ferry fuel anymore! At the end of the race, we had to sling-load the repeaters, to get them off the mountain. That means we had to strap them onto the helicopters, and pull them off the mountains that way - quite effective really. Repeater station finally airborne! You can see a pole in the right photo. My girlfriend asked me what it was for - it helps balance the load so that it does not keep swinging whilst airborne. Below, you will see some pretty good photos from the chopper. Towards the end of the race, we had to scan the rivers for the last competitors coming in - to make sure they had completed this section of the race course. It was low-altitude flying of the river-bed. The photo on the left shows the chopper approaching Silam Village. This village was located just outside of Silam HQ. Glen liked wanted to have a photo of the back of my head - and I ruined the photo by turning my head as he took it... Here's a sunset shot of the helicopters flying around. I had to put in this fantastic photo - the lighting gives a really nice feel to the photo. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001
15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Wildlife in Borneo . . . 15. August 2000 10:42 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe wildlife in borneoShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageThe Wildlife in Borneo . . .The jungles in Borneo are really dense, dark and humid. You will find that some of the photos look as though they have been over-exposed, but in reality, it is just the humidity in the air. I have a photo of this at home - Glen enlarged it for me, and framed it! Don't ask me why - I think I look rather wasted there. Glen and I tried to race through the jungle. The climb to the top of the mountain is rated as a 1.5 hour climb... Glen and I have done it in 26 minutes... actually I was confident that I could do it in less than 20 and so I did! I held the record of taking 17 minutes to race to the top of Mt Silam, covering a distance of approx 4 kilometres through the jungle, up a mountain. I was getting really fit (My girlfriend was proud of me). This photo shows how dense and dark the jungle can be. It was so humid there... no, not because I hadn't cleaned my lenses. You can see how muddy it is in the jungle - I became quite dirty after many trips into the jungle. I think these trees are just as big as the Californian Redwoods. They might not be as old, but definitely just as big. This was taken with a 300mm lens, from 1.5 metres. The most amazing thing about them, is when they are scared, the curl up into little "marbles". It looks like a small bug, but it is actually at least 7cm long, which is actually quite big. I noticed in Borneo, most of the insects there were huge. The wingspan of the brown moth was about 15cm wide - huge! They are mostly active at night, which is quite common for creatures in the jungle. A couple of the girls stationed in the jungles, was stationed here. Not a wise decision, considering these girls were paranoid about the insects. (Note: in the photo below, I still had conjunctivitis) I had the red eyes for most of the trip. Big and beautiful, don't you think? You can see how big the black moth is compared to the size of the telephone. These plants were kind of special because each branch split into two, so by the end of it, they formed a hexagonal pattern. Below, are plants known as the "pitcher" plant. The pitcher plants are meat-eating plants - you have watch out not to fall into them because they will swallow you whole. If you just believed that, you are very gullible! *laugh* The pitcher plant, like other carnivorous plants, feed on insects. They have sweet-smelling nectar that attract the unsuspecting insect to it. When the insect lands, it finds the surface slippery and fall straight into the “pitcher”, where the plants juices drowns it and is digested by the plant. You may have heard of other type of carnivorous plants such as the Venus Fly Trap, and the Sundew plants. Yes, you see me holding the snake with a leaf. It was a poisonous snake, and I was worried about it's venom getting on my skin. For example a puff adder, contact with the venom numbs the skin. I was not familiar with the snakes in Borneo, and was not about to risk it. The tarantella was sitting inside the catering tent hunting. Everyone was looking at it and admiring it, which was pretty amazing, considering I know many people who would willingly kill a spider in sight. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001
15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Repeater Stations . . . 15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetrepeater stationsShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageRepeater Stations . . .Here, you see Paul and I transporting some of the repeater stations by air. From Silam, we flew down to DFVC. We stayed there for three days before going back to Silam. I am at one of the repeater sites. Here, the top of one of the mountains was cleared, so we could safely land a helicopter there. Oh... did I forget to mention that I almost chopped one of my fingers in half at the repeater site? On top of my infected eye, I had another thing for the medical team to look at. The fingernail had been chopped in half and there was not much I could do about it except clean it up and try to avoid infections. The medical team was great there... they were extremely good. We had a few problems with some of the communications gear. Paul and Glen were handling it, and at times I tried to assist. The first few days had been really tough. The top of Silam is covered in clouds for most of the afternoons, so the solar panels are quite useless. A survey of the conditions made prior to the race was useless. If you ask any of the locals, they would have told us that the peak is always covered in clouds... but apparently no-one asked them!!! We had problems keeping the generators running - they were using more power than predicted and there was no sun on the top of Silam to recharge the batteries. The generator itself was a re-built petrol engine with a car alternator on it. We basically tried to use a system where we used a jerry can, cut holes into it, and relied on the force of gravity to transport the fuel to the generator. This design ended up working best for us. Our helicopter pilot sitting on the side there, just grinning... On the third day of the race, I hiked up the mountain three times. I was really tired and all I could think of was getting a bit of a rest and some food. I managed to get a bit once I got to Danum. In Danum I managed to get 6 hours sleep before someone woke me up and told me that the repeater had died in Silam... again all the cars had to leave in a convoy... so rush, rush to find my driver and managed (just) to get into the convoy! The road to Danum closes at 6.30pm and all the cars had to go in the convoy. The helicopter flew all of us to the top of the mountain, and waited there for us till we were finished. Glen quite often told the pilot, "You don't have to shut down, because we'll only be here for 5 minutes." Well... quite often, we were there for as long as an hour and half! (Don't worry, the pilot was sensible enough to shut down immediately... he got to know Glen very well.) I went up there often make sure that it was still running. It is much better getting a helicopter to fly me up there so that I can bring some fuel with me ! Glen has mostly been on top of the mountain getting the generator back online. We have to keep the generator running 24 hours per day until the end of the race. On the third night after the race started, one of the repeaters went dead. I had to hike up the mountain on the previous day as the generator had died. I did not leave the mountain until it was dark, so I had to climb down through the jungle in the dark! Fortunately I had my torch with me! Paul later gave me strict instructions to make sure that I leave the mountain so that I could be back at HQ while there was still light! I found out that I did not have any problems navigating at night... I even offered Paul to go back up when the repeater died! Anyhow, we ended up having to send the airborne repeater up! Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001
15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Competitors . . . 15. August 2000 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe competitorsShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageThe Competitors . . .The competitors did not rest... three of the teams were half way through the 600 kilometre course after only three days... pretty amazing! Two of the teams were Australian. 18 teams were out of the race. At least 10 of these were due to medical problems. Hardly any people around here get enough sleep... the place is active 24 hours per day because there are always competitors coming in! I was keen to find out how the Danish team would turn out. At the beginning of the race, they were not very sociable. But by the end of the race, I think the tension of the race had gone, and I managed to have a chat with them. By the third day, the Danes are doing pretty well... they had a 22nd place! This was the mountain-bike leg of the race. The guy you see being transported to hospital in the helicopter (photos below), was doing this part of the race. He was rounding a corner on his bike and rode straight into a large branch. We had a lot of medical urgencies... we almost lost a guy with a punctured lung ! I got some great photos and helped getting the guy into the mobile hospital. There was a lot publicity on the website and through the media about it. Fortunately, he was only 15 minutes away from HQ, so it was possible for us to get him to the helicopter very quickly, and to the nearest hospital. Another leg of the race involved rowing in these “sampans”, a Malay term for “boat”. At some point, the teams in the race had to also split up - some of them swimming, some of them rowing, to complete the water leg of the race. Below, the competitors had to use a flying fox to cross the canyons. I managed to have a go at it - compared to rock-climbing... well, I found it pretty boring *smile*. I imagine most people would find it quite fun though. There are no places to climb here. I had hoped to take one of the helicopters to Madai Caves to check out the 200 metre abseil. The road to the Madai Caves lead directly through the tiny village of Gua Madai - a small cluster of homes, their wood bleached grey. The town’s main sources of income are tourism and birds’ nests. The nests are found high up the walls of the cave, tucked away in cracks and crevasses, and can command thousands of dollars. They are harvested about three times a year. My girlfriend mentioned trying "bird's nest soup" whilst I was there. She said normally the bird's nest they use belong to the swallow. It is a delicacy to many Asians, and similar to shark's fin soup - that is if you have tried it. Normally the nests are made out of the birds' saliva. There was so much rain at Silam that HQ was often flooded. Many of the competitors took the opportunity to get some sleep and the slept on whatever they could find. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001
15. August 2000 10:40 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Silam and Jungle Ops . . . 15. August 2000 10:40 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsilam and jungle opsShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillageSilam and Jungle Ops . . .It is so bloody hot in Silam! It must have been at least 40 degrees and 100% humidity! Silam was the overall headquarters, and Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) was referred to as Jungle Ops. Jungle Ops controlled all radio communications and conducted the race through the the jungle. From Kota Kinabalu, we flew to Lahad Datu and drove the rest of the way to Silam. Silam was the site of one of the repeater stations. We had to set up a HQ a few kilometres from this station... heaps of opportunities for a few walks in the jungle. The operation at Silam was huge!... I had never seen such a busy place before. The place was crawling with energy. It was bigger than any military operation I had ever seen! You would be amazed to see the logistics involved in this project ! At the time I did not have the time to take a lot of photos. We had many army trucks transporting the competitors' equipment - very good cooperation from the military. They helped out with the preparation and set-up of HQ, and with the transportation of fuel. This is the headquarters on the left. The whole Ecochallenge race is governed from this office. The map in the background contains the position of all the checkpoints at which the competitors have to go through. Both of the above photos are aerial shots of HQ and were taken from a helicopter. I managed to get a nice aerial shot of Silam HQ. The big white patch in the middle is where the competitors stored all their equipment. Just to the left are the containers from where the race is controlled. The 4 'finger-like' white pads on the right are the heli-pads. The long rectangle to the left is the eating area, and just above it is the hospital. Approaching DVFC in helicopter. This is actually a research centre in the middle of the jungle - commonly known as DVFC (Danum Valley Field Centre). DVFC is not normally accessible the tourists and the general public, only to researchers. DVFC is concerned about contamination into the jungle. Outside Jungle Ops HQ. The green boxes contain bottled drinking water. By the time the race was over, most of this had been consumed - quite amazing really, considering there were really only 10 people at Jungle Ops. During the competitors were not allowed any help from us, and that included the provision of drinking water. Paul with some of the radio equipment at Silam. He is standing next to the HQ matrix, which contained all the communications equipment for headquarters. Paul is also standing next to the only 2 beds in the HQ building. These were used by the radio operators to nap in between shifts. Below, you see me sitting in the catering tent at Silam. I think it must have been a good day, to have been sitting there, smiling... I am just guessing here, because obviously I did not take the photo, and I cannot remerber the place. Bad hair day? I did not have a shower for a very long time, and to hold my hair in place, I adopted various techniques, such as the sunglasses-hairband... This place is a breathing ground for tropical diseases! As you can see, my right eye is really red. I somehow managed to get conjunctivitis and did not know it was contagious. I did not want to trouble the medics as they were pretty tied up with the competitors. When my vision on the left eye was getting blurry and I had problems seeing what was in front of me, I was ordered to get it checked. Just as well I did! In Kota Kinabalu, I had the same problem on the other eye... at one point both my eyes were infected. It started on my left eye on the way to Kota Kinabalu in the plane ! It then spread to my right eye. The nurse at Silam told me that I should be careful because it could re-infect to my left eye. It started to look and feel a lot better after using the eyedrops that they gave me. Back to TopReturn to Borneo HomepageCreated: 7 Dec 2001
15. August 2000 10:39 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Preparations at the Magellan Hotel 15. August 2000 10:39 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetpreparations at the magellan hotelShareEcochallenge ( Sabah 2000 )ArrivalSilam / Jungle OpsRepeater StationsThe CompetitorsHelicopterJungle Around UsThe VillagePreparations at the Magellan Hotel ( Kota Kinabalu ) . . .All the Ecochallenge teams gathered together at the Magellan Hotel in anticipation of the race, which was due to start on 20th August. During our stay at Kota Kinabalu, we were staying at the most extravagant hotel - as pictured on the right. It is huge! It has 3 swimming pools, and takes us an hour to walk around the perimeter. The radio communications team had to arrive a few days before the start of the race because we had to hand out over 2,000 pieces of radio equipment. We had problems getting the necessary approvals for helicopters so I ended up having to hand out most of the equipment whilst Glen and Paul sorted out the issue of the helicopters. We had to get all the equipment and our team to Silam before the the race started. Glen and Paul checking all the equipment and re-programming some of the radios. Behind me are all the radio equipment, ready to be handed out. I am standing here waiting for the competitors to arrive as I have to sign out the equipment as I give them out. We had to improvise a lot of the furniture, using old crates to set up tables. After the race, Glen and I decided to make most of the luxury and just veg... aaahhh... bliss! Created: 7 Dec 2001 Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 22. August 2019 13:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden - awards card 22. August 2019 13:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is not often that Aiden gets an award for good work at school, but when he does, he is very proudShareIt is not often that Aiden gets an award for good work at school, but when he does, he is very proud. 10. August 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Camping - Barrington Tops 10. August 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetEarlier in the year at Easter time we went camping up at Barrington Tops 5 hours drive north of SydnShareEarlier in the year at Easter time we went camping up at Barrington Tops 5 hours drive north of Sydney.It is a very tall mountain range with some excellent walks, rivers etc.We had a great weekend with friends sitting around the fire roasting marshmellows, walking and canoeing. 23. July 2019 10:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kyoto - Fushimi Inari Shrine 23. July 2019 10:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetShare 8. July 2019 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate - Boys getting their red belts 8. July 2019 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetFairly recently we started the boys on Karate.We thought it would be a good activity for them to buiShareFairly recently we started the boys on Karate.We thought it would be a good activity for them to build strength, motor skills and discipline.Especially Aiden is really enjoying it and putting in the hard work at home practicing. He has become stronger throughout the classes which is great. Before we started he had almost no core strength and now he is able to do sit-ups and pushups.This weekend both Aiden and Lucas were pulled up for their first proper graduation from the white belts to the red belts and they both passed. 17. June 2019 20:06 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Bali - 2018 17. June 2019 20:06 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetPhotos from out trip to Bali with a couple of friends and kids.SharePhotos from out trip to Bali with a couple of friends and kids. 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Japan - Osaka aquarium 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe Osaka aquarium is massive and very impressive. The centre piece is the massive tank in the middlShareThe Osaka aquarium is massive and very impressive. The centre piece is the massive tank in the middle with two large whale sharks and which is also full of other sharks such as hammerheads. 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Japan - Dontonburi Osaka 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetTontonburi is know as the chefs/kitchen area. Here you can buy everything needed for a japanese restShareTontonburi is know as the chefs/kitchen area. Here you can buy everything needed for a japanese restaurant.It is also full of actual restaurants and other oddities such as more exotic places. It has what is known as Osaka's best Ramen restaurant (the one with the long counter in the photos below) - and Yes, the Ramen was very good.Here it is also possible to eat specialties such as the Puffa fish.It was also one of the few places where I saw real Samurai swords for sale. Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Walking 29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden walkingShareIt is the 29th February and the last day of the bet I had with Kim....and believe it or not, but Aiden started walking by himself today.We are very proud of him and I am double proud of him as he delivered the goods just in the nick of time...one day later and I would have been cleaning the house (lucky that this year is a leap year)! 19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Standing by himself 19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden standing by himselfShareAiden is now able to stand up by himself.He is now 20 months and should have been walking ages ago, so he is a bit behind on that front. Hopefully I can get him to take one step before the end of next week...I have a bet with Kim going whether he will walk before the end of February. 5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Centennial Park - Feb 2012 5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetcentennial park feb 2012ShareToday we went to Centennial Park to take some family photos. I had been complaining that I didn't have enough (good) photos of myself and Aiden so Kim offered to take some.We found a nice spot in the park and managed to take a couple of shots before my camera ran out of battery...and unfortunately I had forgotten my spare at home.Kim just came back from a business trip to Singapore a couple of days ago and it is really nice to have her back. I missed her but I am not sure Aiden missed her as much as he is such a daddys boy. When she was back he just turned away and would rather stay with me.Also the little tiger is now 20 months and he is still not walking...what is going on? 29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Ronan Keating Concert 29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetronan keating concertShare Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2021 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual ChrisShareThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual Christmas photo.Kims dad is staying at Kims sisters place over Christmas after haing been in hospital. He is looking the best he has for years. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Surfing 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great tShareLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great time.Because he liked it so much we decided to get him (and Aiden) a surfboard for Christmas as well. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Various 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the mShareThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the middle of winterAidens Learning awardEmpty Maroubra Beach during covid lockdownSeafood dinner with familyChillies harvested from the gardenCooking lobster at home during lockdownSpotted Herbie in our local areaMonkeys in a treePlaying games at home during Covid lockdownEnjoying a hot chocolate during Covid lockdownBoys make a mess and have to clean the houseDinner at home during Covid lockdownConference call with family during Covid lockdownHow many people can you fit into a dinghy?Pho at the local cafeGoing for a walk after Covid restrictions liftedOn a conference call with Dalai Lama from homeKim received a Hoodie to keep her warm in the cold winter evenings. I thought it was something else and wrote instructions on the packaging.Aidens birthday was bowling with his friends and dinner with familyKim dressed appropriately for walking 20 meters to the carThe boys learning to use a hammer.Spending time at Yarra bayAiden still struggling, although him now having a piano seems to help him.Lucas got some more awards at the Athletics carnival to add to his swimming awards. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Guinea Pigs 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was aShareWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was away.The boys had to do all the work cleaning and feeding them. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I ShareAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I treated myself to a new gi (uniform) when I graduated to my 3rd Kyu. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Chess 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. ShareLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. I was very proud that I one day managed to checkmate him with just two pawns and my king. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Piano and Guitar 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to stShareMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to start playing as well.We have been using an online lesson system and it has been working really well for us. Especially Aiden seems to pick it up quickly.Aiden has also been begging to get an electric guitar, so this Christmas we got him one. It is fortunate that the same online lesson subscription also covers guitar playing. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims 50th 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with justShareKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with just a family dinner.Plan: A - Europe trip - Covid cancelledB - New Zealand Ski trip (travel bubble was open) - Cancelled day before we were to leaveC - Staycation in Sydney - Locked down to local councilD - Staycation in same council - Restricted to 5 Km radiusE - Dinner at homeWe did however make up for it later with some golf and spa while she wasn't working. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wShareWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wine. 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Basketball Game 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we toShareKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we took the boys. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Driving and Various 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayedShareThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayed the first night.Next day we drove through Arthurs Pass to Franz Josef (a long drive) where we stayed for three nights. This was mainly so that we had a spare day in case the weather closed in and we couldn't fly to the glacier.From there we drove to Queenstown via Wanaka and the Crowns Range (another long drive). We were lucky that this was open and that snow chains weren't required.Here we stayed for 5 nights whereafter we went to Twizel near Mount Cook for two night.Lastly we drive back to Christchurch to fly out.Queenstown is a scenic place, but lost of other scenic places along the way. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Pukaki chapel 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographeShareAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographed location and much more busy than I remember it. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Skiing 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were wShareAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were with me the other two days. Some friends of our joined us in Queenstown, so for the other days I had Tod to go with, who is a very decent snowboarder.Aiden and Lucas are both becoming good skiers, but especially Lucas is getting really good to the point where I can bring him onto black runs.Although Kim is still very much a beginner she still did two days of skiing sticking to the beginner slope where there is a 'magic carpet' lift. I did see some improvement to last year, but she is still too scared to go on the proper lifts.I bought my own ski boots last year and brought them along (my feet are not compatible with rental ski boots). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - West coast 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot oShareThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot of tourists either as it is hard to get to.We did a lot of walks in the area both around beautiful lakes and also at the beach outside Fox Glacier and Franz Josef villages. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Wanaka and the famous most photographed tree. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a smShareDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a small place with maybe fifty houses, but now it is a proper town with lots of cars and traffic.It is very scenic approaching Lake Wanaka, and the lake itself has this tree growing in the water that photographers from all around the world come here to take photos of. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lindis Pass 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't thinkShareA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't think much of it, but since I visited it the first time, I've alwas found the rolling hills and the colours absolutely stunning. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Glacier Tour 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that woulShareKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that would take up up on a section of the glacier between the two major ice falls.This is a section of the glacier that Andy and I dreaded having to walk through 20 years ago when we were climbing higher up on the glacier. Mind you, back then there was probably another 100 metres of ice on top of where we landed on this day. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Castle Hill Boulders 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomShareDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomenal place to go climbing if you are a good boulderer. It is also quite scenic to just go for a walk.We saw lots of people with their bouldering mats (a soft mat to land on when you are climbing). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Mount Cook 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk wheShareAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk where you walk past the Tasman Glacier and Muller Glacier before you eventually come to the Hooker Glacier lake.The lake was frozen with an iceberg floating around in it. 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day - 2022 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oaShareAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oat balls). << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 6 Months - Pictured and Framed 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 6 monthsShareLucas is now 6 months and is enjoying the easy life...On the weekend we went down to La Perouse to do these creative shots of him at sunset.I always said that I would take a photo of him and put it in a frame...but not sure if this is what everyone had in mind. It was pretty good fun trying to set it all up. A lot of other walkers on the beach were wondering what we were doing.I have been planning this photo for a while. The frame I had picked up from a garbage collection day last month outside a block of units with this particular photo in mind. The chair and table are bath aids and foot stools from home. It was really cool to see everything come together in the end. Unfortunately we missed just the end of the sunset as there were a few clouds on the horizon. A lot of lessons learnt came out of it. Even though the photos came out almost as I had envisioned...I still had a few things that I could have done better....just small things such as two flashes to light frame and Lucas independently, CTO gelling the flash to match the ambient, using an umbrella to avoid hard shadows, bringing a mid range zoom to have more composition options and be able to get a bit closer, use black string to hold up the frame instead of white, bring a pillow to keep his head up and then stripping his clothes and then bring my light meter to check the setting to start with instead of chimping.It was the first time I've used the D800 for this (in the past I've been using my D50 with a different shutter system) and I was worried that I wouldn't be able to balance out the ambient with the flash and still stay below the sync speed...but it worked out like a charm...or maybe I was just lucky! 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims Kitchen - Raspberries Creme Brulee 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkims kitchen raspberries creme bruleeShareLast night Kim made a very nice Creme Brulee...Yummiiiii!!!!She asked me to take a couple of photos which I think turned out quite nicely. 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Wildlife Park 2013 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney wildlife park 2013ShareOn the weekend we went to the Sydney Wildlife Park at Darling Harbour.It was good fun to show Aiden all the different animals (Although he was pretty tired by the end).The highlight of the exhibition is the 4.5 meter long Saltie (Saltwater Crocodile). He is such a darling and he loved his girlfriends so much that he had them over for dinner (Ha Ha). Aiden wasn't sure about the crocodiles and definitely wasn't happy with the big mouth and all the sharp teeth......Daddy came to the rescue and threw himself at the monster.He was a bit more happy with the smaller cuddlier animals...Such as the wombats......the Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies......or even the Tasmanian Devil.The start of the exhibition is pretty amazing as you wank through a large enclosure with lots of butterflies flying around.And besides from that there is of cause a lot of lizards, frogs and snakes on display. 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 5 Months 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 5 months youngShareLucas is now 5 months and we did his monthly photos the other day together with Aiden. This also gave me an excuse to try out the new strobe I bought for photography (an Alien Bee B800) and it worked out great...so much better than trying to use multiple flashes inside a softbox to get enough power.Aiden and Lucas are already ganging up on us and sitting giggling together. They absolutely adore eachother although Aiden sometime can get a little rough with Lucas.Afterwards we went to the local Park to have a bit of a play (see previous post with photos of Aiden). 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden at Boralee Park 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden at boralee parkShareThe other day we visited Boralee Park to let Aiden play and to take some photos of Lucas.Aiden is now definitely less afraid of playing and is quite happy zooming down the slides by himself...although he is a little cautious about the swing unless showing off in front of Lucas. 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Aquarium 2013 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney aquarium 2013Share <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en"> <head profile="http://gmpg.org/xfn/11"><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /> <link rel="contents" title="Archive" href="/archive" /> <link rel="start" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="/" /> <link type="application/rsd+xml" rel="edituri" title="RSD" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/rsd.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="SIOC" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/sioc.axd" /> <link type="application/apml+xml" rel="meta" title="APML" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/apml.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="FOAF" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/foaf.axd" /> <link type="application/rss+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (RSS)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd" /> <link type="application/atom+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (ATOM)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd?format=atom" /> <link type="application/opensearchdescription+xml" rel="search" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/opensearch.axd" /> <link href="/Content/Auto/Global.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0, maximum-scale=1.0, user-scalable=0" /> <script type="text/javascript" src="/en.res.axd"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/01-jquery-1.9.1.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/02-jquery.cookie.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/04-jquery-jtemplates.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/05-json2.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/blog.js"></script> <!--[if lt IE 9]> <script src="/themes/yoko/js/html5.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <![endif]--> <link rel="shortcut icon" href="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/photo.ico" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="themes/PerfectMomentsLight/style.css" type="text/css" /><link rel="shortcut icon" href="favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" /> <script type="text/javascript"> function opacity(id, opacStart, opacEnd, millisec) { //speed for each frame var speed = Math.round(millisec / 100); var timer = 0; //determine the direction for the blending, if start and end are the same nothing happens if (opacStart > opacEnd) { for (i = opacStart; i >= opacEnd; i--) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("slideInfoObject.height='0px';slideInfoObject.visibility='hidden';", (timer++ * speed)); } else if (opacStart < opacEnd) { slideInfoObject.height = "50px"; slideInfoObject.visibility = "visible"; for (i = opacStart; i <= opacEnd; i++) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("opacity('" + id + "', 70, 0, " + millisec + ");", 3000); } } //change the opacity for different browsers function changeOpac(opacity, id) { //var object = document.getElementById(id).style; slideInfoObject.opacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.MozOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.KhtmlOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.filter = "alpha(opacity=" + opacity + ")"; } </script> <meta name="description" content="A Rene Pallesen Journal" /> <meta name="keywords" content="Blog,1997,1998,1999,2000,2001,2002,2003,2004,2005,2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016,2017,2018,2019,2020,2021,2022,2023,Book,Family,Aiden,Kim,Lucas,Rene,Travel,test" /> <meta name="author" content="Rene Pallesen" /><title> Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal </title></head> <body class="home blog"> <div id="page" class="clearfix"> <form method="post" action="/?callback=..%2F..%2F..%2F..%2Fetc%2Fhosts&page=48" onsubmit="javascript:return WebForm_OnSubmit();" id="aspnetForm"> <div class="aspNetHidden"> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTTARGET" id="__EVENTTARGET" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTARGUMENT" id="__EVENTARGUMENT" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__VIEWSTATE" id="__VIEWSTATE" value="dK1YEp78m4VRKhoscdY1+0XYF5hxbaLr4sH6f+s++slMVMHxA/x33YV7vlIUfdmAiYqaqmadY9u4EtgJk/8CVkKifT82rU3Rnfo8mP9felEIq41nlHctS4y2EXJJ/c7HcJv4kJQdppyJf7wtJz2bHkZBYrs98027nte/ABxOteh2IRdd" /> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ var theForm = document.forms['aspnetForm']; if (!theForm) { theForm = document.aspnetForm; } function __doPostBack(eventTarget, eventArgument) { if (!theForm.onsubmit || (theForm.onsubmit() != false)) { theForm.__EVENTTARGET.value = eventTarget; theForm.__EVENTARGUMENT.value = eventArgument; theForm.submit(); } } //]]> </script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=pynGkmcFUV13He1Qd6_TZKFmBG-AUY7YwSX-Eh_-So8UKa0fIVRDpGlQdJn4r3q4SNLVEw2&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=x2nkrMJGXkMELz33nwnakCtZ34Mn6eBLBMlvZVv4Wb4Oh2imzvaEcSb41UN__ZKr_-NEfxOm8xbKr0mL-Fcwb5JstEM1&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ function WebForm_OnSubmit() { if (typeof(ValidatorOnSubmit) == "function" && ValidatorOnSubmit() == false) return false; return true; } //]]> </script> <header id="branding"> <nav class="clearfix" id="mainnav"> <div class="menu-page-menu-container"> <ul class="menu" id="menu-page-menu"> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/blog.aspx">Blog</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/portfolio-main">Portfolio</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/page/packages">Packages</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/contact.aspx">Contact</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/about-me">About</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd"><img src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/logo_rss.png" /></a></li> </ul> </div> </nav> <hgroup id="site-title"> <h2><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home">Home</a></h2> </hgroup> <div id="headerphoto" > <a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home"><img width="1100" height="176" alt="" class="headerimage" src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/PMlogo.jpg"></a> </div> </header> <div id="wrap"> <div id="main"> <div id="content"> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_divError"></div> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_PostList1_posts" class="posts"> <article class="post" id="post0"> <div class="entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01<br> by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a> </p> </div> <header class="entry-header"> <h2 class="entry-title"><a href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" class="taggedlink">Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012</a></h2> <div class="single-entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01 by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a> | <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a></p> </div> </header> <div class="entry-content"> <div id="AdnTop"><div class="AdnTopLeft" style="float:left"></div><div class="AdnTopRight" style="float:right"><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="TwitterButton"><div><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" data-text="Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012" data-count="horizontal">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><script id="PlusOne" src="https://apis.google.com/js/plusone.js" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="PlusOneButton"><div><g:plusone href="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" size="medium"></g:plusone></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="DiggButton"><div><script type="text/javascript">(function() {var s = document.createElement('SCRIPT'), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName('SCRIPT')[0];s.type = 'text/javascript';s.async = true;s.src = 'http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js';s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1);})();</script><a href="http://digg.com/submit?url=http%3a%2f%2fperfectmoments.photography%2fpost%2fSydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&title=Sydney+Hobart+Yacht+Race+2012" class="DiggThisButton DiggCompact"><span style=" display:none">sydney hobart yacht race 2012</span></a></div></div><script id="FacebookShare" src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookShareButton"><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" share_url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" type="button_count">Share</a></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookLikeButton"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&show_faces=false&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=21&layout=button_count&width=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" style="border:none;overflow:hidden;width:80px;height:21px"> My Dad wanted to see the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race again this year. Unlike the last time we were there in good time this year and found a great parking spot and a fairly good vantage point of the race without too many crowds. While waiting for the race to start the James Craig was cruising back and forth outside the harbour. Once the race started and the boats passed the heads it became very busy both on the water and it in air with all the boats and helicopters (at one point I counted 11 at the same time) and my Dad was busy clicking away. This year turned out to be a new course record, so great conditions all the way to Hobart. 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day 2012 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas day 2012Share Christmas Day we celebrated with Kims family at her sisters house. It was the usual crowd of our familys and everyone bringing dishes to share and as usual there was a lot of different foods to try. It was great to have the whole family together (Aiden was again eating too much). And even Santa made an appearance again this year...Thank you so much Santa!!!!! 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Eve 2012 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas eve 2012ShareThis year we celebrated Christmas at home with my Dad and his partner with the traditional Christmas Duck and Ris-a-la-mande. It was Lucas' first and Aiden's third Christmas...Aiden is now getting old enough to enjoy the experience... ...especially the food After dinner we opened presents according to the Danish tradition and Aiden was very excited about the big box from Bedstefar... ...containing a big truck. From Mummy and Daddy he received a Lightning Mcqueen car (radio controlled). ...and also a drawing pad. Merry Christmas... 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Maroubra Beach December 2012 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmaroubra beach december 2012ShareOn one of the days we took my dad to Maroubra beach for breakfast.It gave them a chance to check out what out local beach is like and also Aiden a chance to have a bit of a play in the sand. 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kids Dad with Grandchildren 2012 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkids dad with grandchildren 2012ShareAt around Christmas time Kims dad asked me if I could take some more photos of him and the grandchildren.Last year I took some of him using a blue background and he asked for something similar (although I am not a big fan of blue) 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Family Photo 2012 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas family photo 2012Share Every year I like to take a Christmas family photo. This year having my dad around meant that I could get hime to assist us with taking the photo as I needed someone to stand on a ladder taking the photo while we as a family was lying plat on a bed. Merry Christmas 2012 Everyone!!!! 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Matraville Christmas Lights 2012 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmatraville christmas lights 2012ShareEvery year some of the houses in Matraville puts on a spectacular christmas light show. Every night there are hundreds of visitors and it is worth seeing. Here are some of the lights from this years show. 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Barrenjoey Lighthouse 2012 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbarrenjoey lighthouse 2012ShareThis holiday season my Dad and his partner is visiting us from Denmark. It has been a while since he was here and in also a while since we were in Denmark, so Aiden had grown a fair bit since. The first couple of weeks we bought then some trips to various places such as Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains. One the weekends we would treat then to various dinners Thai, Indian, Moroccan, Brazilian, Aussie, Chinese etc. as well as try to make time to take them to see some of the sights around Sydney. The first weekend Aiden was sick so we had to cancel our trip up the Northern Beaches to Barrenjoey Lighthouse so we had to stay home and let them explore by themself. On the second weekend we managed to go there and bring Aiden along as well sitting in his little backback. It was a warm day and the climb is fairly steep so especially my dads partner was pretty hot by the time we reached the top where the light house is. The view was definitely worth it. Walking back along the beach we decided to make a drink stop to clench the thirst. 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Merry Christmas 2012 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmerry christmas 2012ShareFirst of all Merry Christmas everyone!!! With a bit of arm twisting Kim finally agreed to let me do a series of 'sexy' Santa photos.A lot of work had to go into these couple of photos in terms of getting the outfit, but the right colour wrapping paper, wrap all the boxes, set them up to it looks nice, getting all the lighting right and not least convince Kim to do the actual shoot.Then I had to sort out the photos I needed and then do all the editing...I think the end result is pretty good and very much in the spirit of Christmas.And did I mention that I am married to the most beautiful (and sexy) Santa there is??? 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 3 months 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 3 monthsShareLucas is now three months young and the other day I did a series of monthly photos of Kim and him on our bed. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...444546474849505152...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you
22. August 2019 13:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden - awards card 22. August 2019 13:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is not often that Aiden gets an award for good work at school, but when he does, he is very proudShareIt is not often that Aiden gets an award for good work at school, but when he does, he is very proud.
10. August 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Camping - Barrington Tops 10. August 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetEarlier in the year at Easter time we went camping up at Barrington Tops 5 hours drive north of SydnShareEarlier in the year at Easter time we went camping up at Barrington Tops 5 hours drive north of Sydney.It is a very tall mountain range with some excellent walks, rivers etc.We had a great weekend with friends sitting around the fire roasting marshmellows, walking and canoeing.
23. July 2019 10:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kyoto - Fushimi Inari Shrine 23. July 2019 10:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetShare
8. July 2019 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate - Boys getting their red belts 8. July 2019 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetFairly recently we started the boys on Karate.We thought it would be a good activity for them to buiShareFairly recently we started the boys on Karate.We thought it would be a good activity for them to build strength, motor skills and discipline.Especially Aiden is really enjoying it and putting in the hard work at home practicing. He has become stronger throughout the classes which is great. Before we started he had almost no core strength and now he is able to do sit-ups and pushups.This weekend both Aiden and Lucas were pulled up for their first proper graduation from the white belts to the red belts and they both passed.
17. June 2019 20:06 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Bali - 2018 17. June 2019 20:06 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetPhotos from out trip to Bali with a couple of friends and kids.SharePhotos from out trip to Bali with a couple of friends and kids.
2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Japan - Osaka aquarium 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe Osaka aquarium is massive and very impressive. The centre piece is the massive tank in the middlShareThe Osaka aquarium is massive and very impressive. The centre piece is the massive tank in the middle with two large whale sharks and which is also full of other sharks such as hammerheads.
2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Japan - Dontonburi Osaka 2. April 2019 20:10 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetTontonburi is know as the chefs/kitchen area. Here you can buy everything needed for a japanese restShareTontonburi is know as the chefs/kitchen area. Here you can buy everything needed for a japanese restaurant.It is also full of actual restaurants and other oddities such as more exotic places. It has what is known as Osaka's best Ramen restaurant (the one with the long counter in the photos below) - and Yes, the Ramen was very good.Here it is also possible to eat specialties such as the Puffa fish.It was also one of the few places where I saw real Samurai swords for sale. Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Walking 29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden walkingShareIt is the 29th February and the last day of the bet I had with Kim....and believe it or not, but Aiden started walking by himself today.We are very proud of him and I am double proud of him as he delivered the goods just in the nick of time...one day later and I would have been cleaning the house (lucky that this year is a leap year)! 19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Standing by himself 19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden standing by himselfShareAiden is now able to stand up by himself.He is now 20 months and should have been walking ages ago, so he is a bit behind on that front. Hopefully I can get him to take one step before the end of next week...I have a bet with Kim going whether he will walk before the end of February. 5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Centennial Park - Feb 2012 5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetcentennial park feb 2012ShareToday we went to Centennial Park to take some family photos. I had been complaining that I didn't have enough (good) photos of myself and Aiden so Kim offered to take some.We found a nice spot in the park and managed to take a couple of shots before my camera ran out of battery...and unfortunately I had forgotten my spare at home.Kim just came back from a business trip to Singapore a couple of days ago and it is really nice to have her back. I missed her but I am not sure Aiden missed her as much as he is such a daddys boy. When she was back he just turned away and would rather stay with me.Also the little tiger is now 20 months and he is still not walking...what is going on? 29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Ronan Keating Concert 29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetronan keating concertShare Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2021 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual ChrisShareThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual Christmas photo.Kims dad is staying at Kims sisters place over Christmas after haing been in hospital. He is looking the best he has for years. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Surfing 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great tShareLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great time.Because he liked it so much we decided to get him (and Aiden) a surfboard for Christmas as well. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Various 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the mShareThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the middle of winterAidens Learning awardEmpty Maroubra Beach during covid lockdownSeafood dinner with familyChillies harvested from the gardenCooking lobster at home during lockdownSpotted Herbie in our local areaMonkeys in a treePlaying games at home during Covid lockdownEnjoying a hot chocolate during Covid lockdownBoys make a mess and have to clean the houseDinner at home during Covid lockdownConference call with family during Covid lockdownHow many people can you fit into a dinghy?Pho at the local cafeGoing for a walk after Covid restrictions liftedOn a conference call with Dalai Lama from homeKim received a Hoodie to keep her warm in the cold winter evenings. I thought it was something else and wrote instructions on the packaging.Aidens birthday was bowling with his friends and dinner with familyKim dressed appropriately for walking 20 meters to the carThe boys learning to use a hammer.Spending time at Yarra bayAiden still struggling, although him now having a piano seems to help him.Lucas got some more awards at the Athletics carnival to add to his swimming awards. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Guinea Pigs 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was aShareWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was away.The boys had to do all the work cleaning and feeding them. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I ShareAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I treated myself to a new gi (uniform) when I graduated to my 3rd Kyu. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Chess 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. ShareLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. I was very proud that I one day managed to checkmate him with just two pawns and my king. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Piano and Guitar 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to stShareMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to start playing as well.We have been using an online lesson system and it has been working really well for us. Especially Aiden seems to pick it up quickly.Aiden has also been begging to get an electric guitar, so this Christmas we got him one. It is fortunate that the same online lesson subscription also covers guitar playing. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims 50th 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with justShareKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with just a family dinner.Plan: A - Europe trip - Covid cancelledB - New Zealand Ski trip (travel bubble was open) - Cancelled day before we were to leaveC - Staycation in Sydney - Locked down to local councilD - Staycation in same council - Restricted to 5 Km radiusE - Dinner at homeWe did however make up for it later with some golf and spa while she wasn't working. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wShareWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wine. 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Basketball Game 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we toShareKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we took the boys. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Driving and Various 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayedShareThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayed the first night.Next day we drove through Arthurs Pass to Franz Josef (a long drive) where we stayed for three nights. This was mainly so that we had a spare day in case the weather closed in and we couldn't fly to the glacier.From there we drove to Queenstown via Wanaka and the Crowns Range (another long drive). We were lucky that this was open and that snow chains weren't required.Here we stayed for 5 nights whereafter we went to Twizel near Mount Cook for two night.Lastly we drive back to Christchurch to fly out.Queenstown is a scenic place, but lost of other scenic places along the way. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Pukaki chapel 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographeShareAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographed location and much more busy than I remember it. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Skiing 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were wShareAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were with me the other two days. Some friends of our joined us in Queenstown, so for the other days I had Tod to go with, who is a very decent snowboarder.Aiden and Lucas are both becoming good skiers, but especially Lucas is getting really good to the point where I can bring him onto black runs.Although Kim is still very much a beginner she still did two days of skiing sticking to the beginner slope where there is a 'magic carpet' lift. I did see some improvement to last year, but she is still too scared to go on the proper lifts.I bought my own ski boots last year and brought them along (my feet are not compatible with rental ski boots). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - West coast 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot oShareThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot of tourists either as it is hard to get to.We did a lot of walks in the area both around beautiful lakes and also at the beach outside Fox Glacier and Franz Josef villages. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Wanaka and the famous most photographed tree. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a smShareDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a small place with maybe fifty houses, but now it is a proper town with lots of cars and traffic.It is very scenic approaching Lake Wanaka, and the lake itself has this tree growing in the water that photographers from all around the world come here to take photos of. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lindis Pass 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't thinkShareA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't think much of it, but since I visited it the first time, I've alwas found the rolling hills and the colours absolutely stunning. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Glacier Tour 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that woulShareKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that would take up up on a section of the glacier between the two major ice falls.This is a section of the glacier that Andy and I dreaded having to walk through 20 years ago when we were climbing higher up on the glacier. Mind you, back then there was probably another 100 metres of ice on top of where we landed on this day. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Castle Hill Boulders 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomShareDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomenal place to go climbing if you are a good boulderer. It is also quite scenic to just go for a walk.We saw lots of people with their bouldering mats (a soft mat to land on when you are climbing). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Mount Cook 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk wheShareAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk where you walk past the Tasman Glacier and Muller Glacier before you eventually come to the Hooker Glacier lake.The lake was frozen with an iceberg floating around in it. 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day - 2022 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oaShareAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oat balls). << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 6 Months - Pictured and Framed 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 6 monthsShareLucas is now 6 months and is enjoying the easy life...On the weekend we went down to La Perouse to do these creative shots of him at sunset.I always said that I would take a photo of him and put it in a frame...but not sure if this is what everyone had in mind. It was pretty good fun trying to set it all up. A lot of other walkers on the beach were wondering what we were doing.I have been planning this photo for a while. The frame I had picked up from a garbage collection day last month outside a block of units with this particular photo in mind. The chair and table are bath aids and foot stools from home. It was really cool to see everything come together in the end. Unfortunately we missed just the end of the sunset as there were a few clouds on the horizon. A lot of lessons learnt came out of it. Even though the photos came out almost as I had envisioned...I still had a few things that I could have done better....just small things such as two flashes to light frame and Lucas independently, CTO gelling the flash to match the ambient, using an umbrella to avoid hard shadows, bringing a mid range zoom to have more composition options and be able to get a bit closer, use black string to hold up the frame instead of white, bring a pillow to keep his head up and then stripping his clothes and then bring my light meter to check the setting to start with instead of chimping.It was the first time I've used the D800 for this (in the past I've been using my D50 with a different shutter system) and I was worried that I wouldn't be able to balance out the ambient with the flash and still stay below the sync speed...but it worked out like a charm...or maybe I was just lucky! 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims Kitchen - Raspberries Creme Brulee 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkims kitchen raspberries creme bruleeShareLast night Kim made a very nice Creme Brulee...Yummiiiii!!!!She asked me to take a couple of photos which I think turned out quite nicely. 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Wildlife Park 2013 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney wildlife park 2013ShareOn the weekend we went to the Sydney Wildlife Park at Darling Harbour.It was good fun to show Aiden all the different animals (Although he was pretty tired by the end).The highlight of the exhibition is the 4.5 meter long Saltie (Saltwater Crocodile). He is such a darling and he loved his girlfriends so much that he had them over for dinner (Ha Ha). Aiden wasn't sure about the crocodiles and definitely wasn't happy with the big mouth and all the sharp teeth......Daddy came to the rescue and threw himself at the monster.He was a bit more happy with the smaller cuddlier animals...Such as the wombats......the Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies......or even the Tasmanian Devil.The start of the exhibition is pretty amazing as you wank through a large enclosure with lots of butterflies flying around.And besides from that there is of cause a lot of lizards, frogs and snakes on display. 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 5 Months 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 5 months youngShareLucas is now 5 months and we did his monthly photos the other day together with Aiden. This also gave me an excuse to try out the new strobe I bought for photography (an Alien Bee B800) and it worked out great...so much better than trying to use multiple flashes inside a softbox to get enough power.Aiden and Lucas are already ganging up on us and sitting giggling together. They absolutely adore eachother although Aiden sometime can get a little rough with Lucas.Afterwards we went to the local Park to have a bit of a play (see previous post with photos of Aiden). 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden at Boralee Park 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden at boralee parkShareThe other day we visited Boralee Park to let Aiden play and to take some photos of Lucas.Aiden is now definitely less afraid of playing and is quite happy zooming down the slides by himself...although he is a little cautious about the swing unless showing off in front of Lucas. 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Aquarium 2013 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney aquarium 2013Share <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en"> <head profile="http://gmpg.org/xfn/11"><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /> <link rel="contents" title="Archive" href="/archive" /> <link rel="start" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="/" /> <link type="application/rsd+xml" rel="edituri" title="RSD" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/rsd.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="SIOC" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/sioc.axd" /> <link type="application/apml+xml" rel="meta" title="APML" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/apml.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="FOAF" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/foaf.axd" /> <link type="application/rss+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (RSS)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd" /> <link type="application/atom+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (ATOM)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd?format=atom" /> <link type="application/opensearchdescription+xml" rel="search" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/opensearch.axd" /> <link href="/Content/Auto/Global.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0, maximum-scale=1.0, user-scalable=0" /> <script type="text/javascript" src="/en.res.axd"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/01-jquery-1.9.1.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/02-jquery.cookie.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/04-jquery-jtemplates.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/05-json2.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/blog.js"></script> <!--[if lt IE 9]> <script src="/themes/yoko/js/html5.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <![endif]--> <link rel="shortcut icon" href="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/photo.ico" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="themes/PerfectMomentsLight/style.css" type="text/css" /><link rel="shortcut icon" href="favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" /> <script type="text/javascript"> function opacity(id, opacStart, opacEnd, millisec) { //speed for each frame var speed = Math.round(millisec / 100); var timer = 0; //determine the direction for the blending, if start and end are the same nothing happens if (opacStart > opacEnd) { for (i = opacStart; i >= opacEnd; i--) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("slideInfoObject.height='0px';slideInfoObject.visibility='hidden';", (timer++ * speed)); } else if (opacStart < opacEnd) { slideInfoObject.height = "50px"; slideInfoObject.visibility = "visible"; for (i = opacStart; i <= opacEnd; i++) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("opacity('" + id + "', 70, 0, " + millisec + ");", 3000); } } //change the opacity for different browsers function changeOpac(opacity, id) { //var object = document.getElementById(id).style; slideInfoObject.opacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.MozOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.KhtmlOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.filter = "alpha(opacity=" + opacity + ")"; } </script> <meta name="description" content="A Rene Pallesen Journal" /> <meta name="keywords" content="Blog,1997,1998,1999,2000,2001,2002,2003,2004,2005,2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016,2017,2018,2019,2020,2021,2022,2023,Book,Family,Aiden,Kim,Lucas,Rene,Travel,test" /> <meta name="author" content="Rene Pallesen" /><title> Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal </title></head> <body class="home blog"> <div id="page" class="clearfix"> <form method="post" action="/?callback=..%2F..%2F..%2F..%2Fetc%2Fhosts&page=48" onsubmit="javascript:return WebForm_OnSubmit();" id="aspnetForm"> <div class="aspNetHidden"> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTTARGET" id="__EVENTTARGET" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTARGUMENT" id="__EVENTARGUMENT" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__VIEWSTATE" id="__VIEWSTATE" value="dK1YEp78m4VRKhoscdY1+0XYF5hxbaLr4sH6f+s++slMVMHxA/x33YV7vlIUfdmAiYqaqmadY9u4EtgJk/8CVkKifT82rU3Rnfo8mP9felEIq41nlHctS4y2EXJJ/c7HcJv4kJQdppyJf7wtJz2bHkZBYrs98027nte/ABxOteh2IRdd" /> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ var theForm = document.forms['aspnetForm']; if (!theForm) { theForm = document.aspnetForm; } function __doPostBack(eventTarget, eventArgument) { if (!theForm.onsubmit || (theForm.onsubmit() != false)) { theForm.__EVENTTARGET.value = eventTarget; theForm.__EVENTARGUMENT.value = eventArgument; theForm.submit(); } } //]]> </script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=pynGkmcFUV13He1Qd6_TZKFmBG-AUY7YwSX-Eh_-So8UKa0fIVRDpGlQdJn4r3q4SNLVEw2&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=x2nkrMJGXkMELz33nwnakCtZ34Mn6eBLBMlvZVv4Wb4Oh2imzvaEcSb41UN__ZKr_-NEfxOm8xbKr0mL-Fcwb5JstEM1&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ function WebForm_OnSubmit() { if (typeof(ValidatorOnSubmit) == "function" && ValidatorOnSubmit() == false) return false; return true; } //]]> </script> <header id="branding"> <nav class="clearfix" id="mainnav"> <div class="menu-page-menu-container"> <ul class="menu" id="menu-page-menu"> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/blog.aspx">Blog</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/portfolio-main">Portfolio</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/page/packages">Packages</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/contact.aspx">Contact</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/about-me">About</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd"><img src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/logo_rss.png" /></a></li> </ul> </div> </nav> <hgroup id="site-title"> <h2><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home">Home</a></h2> </hgroup> <div id="headerphoto" > <a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home"><img width="1100" height="176" alt="" class="headerimage" src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/PMlogo.jpg"></a> </div> </header> <div id="wrap"> <div id="main"> <div id="content"> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_divError"></div> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_PostList1_posts" class="posts"> <article class="post" id="post0"> <div class="entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01<br> by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a> </p> </div> <header class="entry-header"> <h2 class="entry-title"><a href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" class="taggedlink">Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012</a></h2> <div class="single-entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01 by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a> | <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a></p> </div> </header> <div class="entry-content"> <div id="AdnTop"><div class="AdnTopLeft" style="float:left"></div><div class="AdnTopRight" style="float:right"><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="TwitterButton"><div><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" data-text="Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012" data-count="horizontal">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><script id="PlusOne" src="https://apis.google.com/js/plusone.js" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="PlusOneButton"><div><g:plusone href="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" size="medium"></g:plusone></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="DiggButton"><div><script type="text/javascript">(function() {var s = document.createElement('SCRIPT'), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName('SCRIPT')[0];s.type = 'text/javascript';s.async = true;s.src = 'http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js';s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1);})();</script><a href="http://digg.com/submit?url=http%3a%2f%2fperfectmoments.photography%2fpost%2fSydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&title=Sydney+Hobart+Yacht+Race+2012" class="DiggThisButton DiggCompact"><span style=" display:none">sydney hobart yacht race 2012</span></a></div></div><script id="FacebookShare" src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookShareButton"><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" share_url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" type="button_count">Share</a></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookLikeButton"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&show_faces=false&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=21&layout=button_count&width=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" style="border:none;overflow:hidden;width:80px;height:21px"> My Dad wanted to see the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race again this year. Unlike the last time we were there in good time this year and found a great parking spot and a fairly good vantage point of the race without too many crowds. While waiting for the race to start the James Craig was cruising back and forth outside the harbour. Once the race started and the boats passed the heads it became very busy both on the water and it in air with all the boats and helicopters (at one point I counted 11 at the same time) and my Dad was busy clicking away. This year turned out to be a new course record, so great conditions all the way to Hobart. 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day 2012 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas day 2012Share Christmas Day we celebrated with Kims family at her sisters house. It was the usual crowd of our familys and everyone bringing dishes to share and as usual there was a lot of different foods to try. It was great to have the whole family together (Aiden was again eating too much). And even Santa made an appearance again this year...Thank you so much Santa!!!!! 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Eve 2012 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas eve 2012ShareThis year we celebrated Christmas at home with my Dad and his partner with the traditional Christmas Duck and Ris-a-la-mande. It was Lucas' first and Aiden's third Christmas...Aiden is now getting old enough to enjoy the experience... ...especially the food After dinner we opened presents according to the Danish tradition and Aiden was very excited about the big box from Bedstefar... ...containing a big truck. From Mummy and Daddy he received a Lightning Mcqueen car (radio controlled). ...and also a drawing pad. Merry Christmas... 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Maroubra Beach December 2012 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmaroubra beach december 2012ShareOn one of the days we took my dad to Maroubra beach for breakfast.It gave them a chance to check out what out local beach is like and also Aiden a chance to have a bit of a play in the sand. 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kids Dad with Grandchildren 2012 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkids dad with grandchildren 2012ShareAt around Christmas time Kims dad asked me if I could take some more photos of him and the grandchildren.Last year I took some of him using a blue background and he asked for something similar (although I am not a big fan of blue) 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Family Photo 2012 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas family photo 2012Share Every year I like to take a Christmas family photo. This year having my dad around meant that I could get hime to assist us with taking the photo as I needed someone to stand on a ladder taking the photo while we as a family was lying plat on a bed. Merry Christmas 2012 Everyone!!!! 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Matraville Christmas Lights 2012 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmatraville christmas lights 2012ShareEvery year some of the houses in Matraville puts on a spectacular christmas light show. Every night there are hundreds of visitors and it is worth seeing. Here are some of the lights from this years show. 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Barrenjoey Lighthouse 2012 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbarrenjoey lighthouse 2012ShareThis holiday season my Dad and his partner is visiting us from Denmark. It has been a while since he was here and in also a while since we were in Denmark, so Aiden had grown a fair bit since. The first couple of weeks we bought then some trips to various places such as Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains. One the weekends we would treat then to various dinners Thai, Indian, Moroccan, Brazilian, Aussie, Chinese etc. as well as try to make time to take them to see some of the sights around Sydney. The first weekend Aiden was sick so we had to cancel our trip up the Northern Beaches to Barrenjoey Lighthouse so we had to stay home and let them explore by themself. On the second weekend we managed to go there and bring Aiden along as well sitting in his little backback. It was a warm day and the climb is fairly steep so especially my dads partner was pretty hot by the time we reached the top where the light house is. The view was definitely worth it. Walking back along the beach we decided to make a drink stop to clench the thirst. 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Merry Christmas 2012 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmerry christmas 2012ShareFirst of all Merry Christmas everyone!!! With a bit of arm twisting Kim finally agreed to let me do a series of 'sexy' Santa photos.A lot of work had to go into these couple of photos in terms of getting the outfit, but the right colour wrapping paper, wrap all the boxes, set them up to it looks nice, getting all the lighting right and not least convince Kim to do the actual shoot.Then I had to sort out the photos I needed and then do all the editing...I think the end result is pretty good and very much in the spirit of Christmas.And did I mention that I am married to the most beautiful (and sexy) Santa there is??? 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 3 months 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 3 monthsShareLucas is now three months young and the other day I did a series of monthly photos of Kim and him on our bed. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...444546474849505152...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you
29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Walking 29. February 2012 07:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden walkingShareIt is the 29th February and the last day of the bet I had with Kim....and believe it or not, but Aiden started walking by himself today.We are very proud of him and I am double proud of him as he delivered the goods just in the nick of time...one day later and I would have been cleaning the house (lucky that this year is a leap year)!
19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden Standing by himself 19. February 2012 09:25 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden standing by himselfShareAiden is now able to stand up by himself.He is now 20 months and should have been walking ages ago, so he is a bit behind on that front. Hopefully I can get him to take one step before the end of next week...I have a bet with Kim going whether he will walk before the end of February.
5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Centennial Park - Feb 2012 5. February 2012 08:57 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetcentennial park feb 2012ShareToday we went to Centennial Park to take some family photos. I had been complaining that I didn't have enough (good) photos of myself and Aiden so Kim offered to take some.We found a nice spot in the park and managed to take a couple of shots before my camera ran out of battery...and unfortunately I had forgotten my spare at home.Kim just came back from a business trip to Singapore a couple of days ago and it is really nice to have her back. I missed her but I am not sure Aiden missed her as much as he is such a daddys boy. When she was back he just turned away and would rather stay with me.Also the little tiger is now 20 months and he is still not walking...what is going on?
29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Ronan Keating Concert 29. January 2012 07:38 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetronan keating concertShare Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2021 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual ChrisShareThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual Christmas photo.Kims dad is staying at Kims sisters place over Christmas after haing been in hospital. He is looking the best he has for years. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Surfing 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great tShareLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great time.Because he liked it so much we decided to get him (and Aiden) a surfboard for Christmas as well. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Various 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the mShareThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the middle of winterAidens Learning awardEmpty Maroubra Beach during covid lockdownSeafood dinner with familyChillies harvested from the gardenCooking lobster at home during lockdownSpotted Herbie in our local areaMonkeys in a treePlaying games at home during Covid lockdownEnjoying a hot chocolate during Covid lockdownBoys make a mess and have to clean the houseDinner at home during Covid lockdownConference call with family during Covid lockdownHow many people can you fit into a dinghy?Pho at the local cafeGoing for a walk after Covid restrictions liftedOn a conference call with Dalai Lama from homeKim received a Hoodie to keep her warm in the cold winter evenings. I thought it was something else and wrote instructions on the packaging.Aidens birthday was bowling with his friends and dinner with familyKim dressed appropriately for walking 20 meters to the carThe boys learning to use a hammer.Spending time at Yarra bayAiden still struggling, although him now having a piano seems to help him.Lucas got some more awards at the Athletics carnival to add to his swimming awards. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Guinea Pigs 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was aShareWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was away.The boys had to do all the work cleaning and feeding them. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I ShareAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I treated myself to a new gi (uniform) when I graduated to my 3rd Kyu. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Chess 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. ShareLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. I was very proud that I one day managed to checkmate him with just two pawns and my king. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Piano and Guitar 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to stShareMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to start playing as well.We have been using an online lesson system and it has been working really well for us. Especially Aiden seems to pick it up quickly.Aiden has also been begging to get an electric guitar, so this Christmas we got him one. It is fortunate that the same online lesson subscription also covers guitar playing. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims 50th 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with justShareKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with just a family dinner.Plan: A - Europe trip - Covid cancelledB - New Zealand Ski trip (travel bubble was open) - Cancelled day before we were to leaveC - Staycation in Sydney - Locked down to local councilD - Staycation in same council - Restricted to 5 Km radiusE - Dinner at homeWe did however make up for it later with some golf and spa while she wasn't working. 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wShareWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wine. 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Basketball Game 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we toShareKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we took the boys. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Driving and Various 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayedShareThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayed the first night.Next day we drove through Arthurs Pass to Franz Josef (a long drive) where we stayed for three nights. This was mainly so that we had a spare day in case the weather closed in and we couldn't fly to the glacier.From there we drove to Queenstown via Wanaka and the Crowns Range (another long drive). We were lucky that this was open and that snow chains weren't required.Here we stayed for 5 nights whereafter we went to Twizel near Mount Cook for two night.Lastly we drive back to Christchurch to fly out.Queenstown is a scenic place, but lost of other scenic places along the way. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Pukaki chapel 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographeShareAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographed location and much more busy than I remember it. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Skiing 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were wShareAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were with me the other two days. Some friends of our joined us in Queenstown, so for the other days I had Tod to go with, who is a very decent snowboarder.Aiden and Lucas are both becoming good skiers, but especially Lucas is getting really good to the point where I can bring him onto black runs.Although Kim is still very much a beginner she still did two days of skiing sticking to the beginner slope where there is a 'magic carpet' lift. I did see some improvement to last year, but she is still too scared to go on the proper lifts.I bought my own ski boots last year and brought them along (my feet are not compatible with rental ski boots). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - West coast 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot oShareThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot of tourists either as it is hard to get to.We did a lot of walks in the area both around beautiful lakes and also at the beach outside Fox Glacier and Franz Josef villages. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Wanaka and the famous most photographed tree. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a smShareDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a small place with maybe fifty houses, but now it is a proper town with lots of cars and traffic.It is very scenic approaching Lake Wanaka, and the lake itself has this tree growing in the water that photographers from all around the world come here to take photos of. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lindis Pass 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't thinkShareA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't think much of it, but since I visited it the first time, I've alwas found the rolling hills and the colours absolutely stunning. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Glacier Tour 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that woulShareKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that would take up up on a section of the glacier between the two major ice falls.This is a section of the glacier that Andy and I dreaded having to walk through 20 years ago when we were climbing higher up on the glacier. Mind you, back then there was probably another 100 metres of ice on top of where we landed on this day. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Castle Hill Boulders 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomShareDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomenal place to go climbing if you are a good boulderer. It is also quite scenic to just go for a walk.We saw lots of people with their bouldering mats (a soft mat to land on when you are climbing). 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Mount Cook 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk wheShareAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk where you walk past the Tasman Glacier and Muller Glacier before you eventually come to the Hooker Glacier lake.The lake was frozen with an iceberg floating around in it. 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day - 2022 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oaShareAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oat balls). << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12345678910...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 6 Months - Pictured and Framed 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 6 monthsShareLucas is now 6 months and is enjoying the easy life...On the weekend we went down to La Perouse to do these creative shots of him at sunset.I always said that I would take a photo of him and put it in a frame...but not sure if this is what everyone had in mind. It was pretty good fun trying to set it all up. A lot of other walkers on the beach were wondering what we were doing.I have been planning this photo for a while. The frame I had picked up from a garbage collection day last month outside a block of units with this particular photo in mind. The chair and table are bath aids and foot stools from home. It was really cool to see everything come together in the end. Unfortunately we missed just the end of the sunset as there were a few clouds on the horizon. A lot of lessons learnt came out of it. Even though the photos came out almost as I had envisioned...I still had a few things that I could have done better....just small things such as two flashes to light frame and Lucas independently, CTO gelling the flash to match the ambient, using an umbrella to avoid hard shadows, bringing a mid range zoom to have more composition options and be able to get a bit closer, use black string to hold up the frame instead of white, bring a pillow to keep his head up and then stripping his clothes and then bring my light meter to check the setting to start with instead of chimping.It was the first time I've used the D800 for this (in the past I've been using my D50 with a different shutter system) and I was worried that I wouldn't be able to balance out the ambient with the flash and still stay below the sync speed...but it worked out like a charm...or maybe I was just lucky! 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims Kitchen - Raspberries Creme Brulee 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkims kitchen raspberries creme bruleeShareLast night Kim made a very nice Creme Brulee...Yummiiiii!!!!She asked me to take a couple of photos which I think turned out quite nicely. 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Wildlife Park 2013 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney wildlife park 2013ShareOn the weekend we went to the Sydney Wildlife Park at Darling Harbour.It was good fun to show Aiden all the different animals (Although he was pretty tired by the end).The highlight of the exhibition is the 4.5 meter long Saltie (Saltwater Crocodile). He is such a darling and he loved his girlfriends so much that he had them over for dinner (Ha Ha). Aiden wasn't sure about the crocodiles and definitely wasn't happy with the big mouth and all the sharp teeth......Daddy came to the rescue and threw himself at the monster.He was a bit more happy with the smaller cuddlier animals...Such as the wombats......the Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies......or even the Tasmanian Devil.The start of the exhibition is pretty amazing as you wank through a large enclosure with lots of butterflies flying around.And besides from that there is of cause a lot of lizards, frogs and snakes on display. 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 5 Months 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 5 months youngShareLucas is now 5 months and we did his monthly photos the other day together with Aiden. This also gave me an excuse to try out the new strobe I bought for photography (an Alien Bee B800) and it worked out great...so much better than trying to use multiple flashes inside a softbox to get enough power.Aiden and Lucas are already ganging up on us and sitting giggling together. They absolutely adore eachother although Aiden sometime can get a little rough with Lucas.Afterwards we went to the local Park to have a bit of a play (see previous post with photos of Aiden). 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden at Boralee Park 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden at boralee parkShareThe other day we visited Boralee Park to let Aiden play and to take some photos of Lucas.Aiden is now definitely less afraid of playing and is quite happy zooming down the slides by himself...although he is a little cautious about the swing unless showing off in front of Lucas. 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Aquarium 2013 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney aquarium 2013Share <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en"> <head profile="http://gmpg.org/xfn/11"><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /> <link rel="contents" title="Archive" href="/archive" /> <link rel="start" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="/" /> <link type="application/rsd+xml" rel="edituri" title="RSD" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/rsd.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="SIOC" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/sioc.axd" /> <link type="application/apml+xml" rel="meta" title="APML" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/apml.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="FOAF" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/foaf.axd" /> <link type="application/rss+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (RSS)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd" /> <link type="application/atom+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (ATOM)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd?format=atom" /> <link type="application/opensearchdescription+xml" rel="search" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/opensearch.axd" /> <link href="/Content/Auto/Global.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0, maximum-scale=1.0, user-scalable=0" /> <script type="text/javascript" src="/en.res.axd"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/01-jquery-1.9.1.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/02-jquery.cookie.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/04-jquery-jtemplates.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/05-json2.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/blog.js"></script> <!--[if lt IE 9]> <script src="/themes/yoko/js/html5.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <![endif]--> <link rel="shortcut icon" href="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/photo.ico" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="themes/PerfectMomentsLight/style.css" type="text/css" /><link rel="shortcut icon" href="favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" /> <script type="text/javascript"> function opacity(id, opacStart, opacEnd, millisec) { //speed for each frame var speed = Math.round(millisec / 100); var timer = 0; //determine the direction for the blending, if start and end are the same nothing happens if (opacStart > opacEnd) { for (i = opacStart; i >= opacEnd; i--) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("slideInfoObject.height='0px';slideInfoObject.visibility='hidden';", (timer++ * speed)); } else if (opacStart < opacEnd) { slideInfoObject.height = "50px"; slideInfoObject.visibility = "visible"; for (i = opacStart; i <= opacEnd; i++) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("opacity('" + id + "', 70, 0, " + millisec + ");", 3000); } } //change the opacity for different browsers function changeOpac(opacity, id) { //var object = document.getElementById(id).style; slideInfoObject.opacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.MozOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.KhtmlOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.filter = "alpha(opacity=" + opacity + ")"; } </script> <meta name="description" content="A Rene Pallesen Journal" /> <meta name="keywords" content="Blog,1997,1998,1999,2000,2001,2002,2003,2004,2005,2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016,2017,2018,2019,2020,2021,2022,2023,Book,Family,Aiden,Kim,Lucas,Rene,Travel,test" /> <meta name="author" content="Rene Pallesen" /><title> Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal </title></head> <body class="home blog"> <div id="page" class="clearfix"> <form method="post" action="/?callback=..%2F..%2F..%2F..%2Fetc%2Fhosts&page=48" onsubmit="javascript:return WebForm_OnSubmit();" id="aspnetForm"> <div class="aspNetHidden"> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTTARGET" id="__EVENTTARGET" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTARGUMENT" id="__EVENTARGUMENT" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__VIEWSTATE" id="__VIEWSTATE" value="dK1YEp78m4VRKhoscdY1+0XYF5hxbaLr4sH6f+s++slMVMHxA/x33YV7vlIUfdmAiYqaqmadY9u4EtgJk/8CVkKifT82rU3Rnfo8mP9felEIq41nlHctS4y2EXJJ/c7HcJv4kJQdppyJf7wtJz2bHkZBYrs98027nte/ABxOteh2IRdd" /> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ var theForm = document.forms['aspnetForm']; if (!theForm) { theForm = document.aspnetForm; } function __doPostBack(eventTarget, eventArgument) { if (!theForm.onsubmit || (theForm.onsubmit() != false)) { theForm.__EVENTTARGET.value = eventTarget; theForm.__EVENTARGUMENT.value = eventArgument; theForm.submit(); } } //]]> </script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=pynGkmcFUV13He1Qd6_TZKFmBG-AUY7YwSX-Eh_-So8UKa0fIVRDpGlQdJn4r3q4SNLVEw2&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=x2nkrMJGXkMELz33nwnakCtZ34Mn6eBLBMlvZVv4Wb4Oh2imzvaEcSb41UN__ZKr_-NEfxOm8xbKr0mL-Fcwb5JstEM1&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ function WebForm_OnSubmit() { if (typeof(ValidatorOnSubmit) == "function" && ValidatorOnSubmit() == false) return false; return true; } //]]> </script> <header id="branding"> <nav class="clearfix" id="mainnav"> <div class="menu-page-menu-container"> <ul class="menu" id="menu-page-menu"> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/blog.aspx">Blog</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/portfolio-main">Portfolio</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/page/packages">Packages</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/contact.aspx">Contact</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/about-me">About</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd"><img src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/logo_rss.png" /></a></li> </ul> </div> </nav> <hgroup id="site-title"> <h2><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home">Home</a></h2> </hgroup> <div id="headerphoto" > <a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home"><img width="1100" height="176" alt="" class="headerimage" src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/PMlogo.jpg"></a> </div> </header> <div id="wrap"> <div id="main"> <div id="content"> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_divError"></div> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_PostList1_posts" class="posts"> <article class="post" id="post0"> <div class="entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01<br> by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a> </p> </div> <header class="entry-header"> <h2 class="entry-title"><a href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" class="taggedlink">Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012</a></h2> <div class="single-entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01 by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a> | <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a></p> </div> </header> <div class="entry-content"> <div id="AdnTop"><div class="AdnTopLeft" style="float:left"></div><div class="AdnTopRight" style="float:right"><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="TwitterButton"><div><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" data-text="Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012" data-count="horizontal">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><script id="PlusOne" src="https://apis.google.com/js/plusone.js" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="PlusOneButton"><div><g:plusone href="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" size="medium"></g:plusone></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="DiggButton"><div><script type="text/javascript">(function() {var s = document.createElement('SCRIPT'), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName('SCRIPT')[0];s.type = 'text/javascript';s.async = true;s.src = 'http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js';s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1);})();</script><a href="http://digg.com/submit?url=http%3a%2f%2fperfectmoments.photography%2fpost%2fSydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&title=Sydney+Hobart+Yacht+Race+2012" class="DiggThisButton DiggCompact"><span style=" display:none">sydney hobart yacht race 2012</span></a></div></div><script id="FacebookShare" src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookShareButton"><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" share_url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" type="button_count">Share</a></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookLikeButton"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&show_faces=false&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=21&layout=button_count&width=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" style="border:none;overflow:hidden;width:80px;height:21px"> My Dad wanted to see the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race again this year. Unlike the last time we were there in good time this year and found a great parking spot and a fairly good vantage point of the race without too many crowds. While waiting for the race to start the James Craig was cruising back and forth outside the harbour. Once the race started and the boats passed the heads it became very busy both on the water and it in air with all the boats and helicopters (at one point I counted 11 at the same time) and my Dad was busy clicking away. This year turned out to be a new course record, so great conditions all the way to Hobart. 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day 2012 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas day 2012Share Christmas Day we celebrated with Kims family at her sisters house. It was the usual crowd of our familys and everyone bringing dishes to share and as usual there was a lot of different foods to try. It was great to have the whole family together (Aiden was again eating too much). And even Santa made an appearance again this year...Thank you so much Santa!!!!! 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Eve 2012 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas eve 2012ShareThis year we celebrated Christmas at home with my Dad and his partner with the traditional Christmas Duck and Ris-a-la-mande. It was Lucas' first and Aiden's third Christmas...Aiden is now getting old enough to enjoy the experience... ...especially the food After dinner we opened presents according to the Danish tradition and Aiden was very excited about the big box from Bedstefar... ...containing a big truck. From Mummy and Daddy he received a Lightning Mcqueen car (radio controlled). ...and also a drawing pad. Merry Christmas... 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Maroubra Beach December 2012 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmaroubra beach december 2012ShareOn one of the days we took my dad to Maroubra beach for breakfast.It gave them a chance to check out what out local beach is like and also Aiden a chance to have a bit of a play in the sand. 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kids Dad with Grandchildren 2012 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkids dad with grandchildren 2012ShareAt around Christmas time Kims dad asked me if I could take some more photos of him and the grandchildren.Last year I took some of him using a blue background and he asked for something similar (although I am not a big fan of blue) 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Family Photo 2012 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas family photo 2012Share Every year I like to take a Christmas family photo. This year having my dad around meant that I could get hime to assist us with taking the photo as I needed someone to stand on a ladder taking the photo while we as a family was lying plat on a bed. Merry Christmas 2012 Everyone!!!! 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Matraville Christmas Lights 2012 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmatraville christmas lights 2012ShareEvery year some of the houses in Matraville puts on a spectacular christmas light show. Every night there are hundreds of visitors and it is worth seeing. Here are some of the lights from this years show. 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Barrenjoey Lighthouse 2012 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbarrenjoey lighthouse 2012ShareThis holiday season my Dad and his partner is visiting us from Denmark. It has been a while since he was here and in also a while since we were in Denmark, so Aiden had grown a fair bit since. The first couple of weeks we bought then some trips to various places such as Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains. One the weekends we would treat then to various dinners Thai, Indian, Moroccan, Brazilian, Aussie, Chinese etc. as well as try to make time to take them to see some of the sights around Sydney. The first weekend Aiden was sick so we had to cancel our trip up the Northern Beaches to Barrenjoey Lighthouse so we had to stay home and let them explore by themself. On the second weekend we managed to go there and bring Aiden along as well sitting in his little backback. It was a warm day and the climb is fairly steep so especially my dads partner was pretty hot by the time we reached the top where the light house is. The view was definitely worth it. Walking back along the beach we decided to make a drink stop to clench the thirst. 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Merry Christmas 2012 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmerry christmas 2012ShareFirst of all Merry Christmas everyone!!! With a bit of arm twisting Kim finally agreed to let me do a series of 'sexy' Santa photos.A lot of work had to go into these couple of photos in terms of getting the outfit, but the right colour wrapping paper, wrap all the boxes, set them up to it looks nice, getting all the lighting right and not least convince Kim to do the actual shoot.Then I had to sort out the photos I needed and then do all the editing...I think the end result is pretty good and very much in the spirit of Christmas.And did I mention that I am married to the most beautiful (and sexy) Santa there is??? 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 3 months 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 3 monthsShareLucas is now three months young and the other day I did a series of monthly photos of Kim and him on our bed. << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...444546474849505152...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you
30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2021 30. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual ChrisShareThis Christmas was almost normal with the Covid restrictions lifted.As usual we did our annual Christmas photo.Kims dad is staying at Kims sisters place over Christmas after haing been in hospital. He is looking the best he has for years.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Surfing 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great tShareLucas and Aiden got themselves a surfing lesson. Aiden was too scared to go, but Lucas had a great time.Because he liked it so much we decided to get him (and Aiden) a surfboard for Christmas as well.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Various 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the mShareThis are from various events of 2021Lucas Holy CommunionLunar EsclipseSwimming at Yarra Bay in the middle of winterAidens Learning awardEmpty Maroubra Beach during covid lockdownSeafood dinner with familyChillies harvested from the gardenCooking lobster at home during lockdownSpotted Herbie in our local areaMonkeys in a treePlaying games at home during Covid lockdownEnjoying a hot chocolate during Covid lockdownBoys make a mess and have to clean the houseDinner at home during Covid lockdownConference call with family during Covid lockdownHow many people can you fit into a dinghy?Pho at the local cafeGoing for a walk after Covid restrictions liftedOn a conference call with Dalai Lama from homeKim received a Hoodie to keep her warm in the cold winter evenings. I thought it was something else and wrote instructions on the packaging.Aidens birthday was bowling with his friends and dinner with familyKim dressed appropriately for walking 20 meters to the carThe boys learning to use a hammer.Spending time at Yarra bayAiden still struggling, although him now having a piano seems to help him.Lucas got some more awards at the Athletics carnival to add to his swimming awards.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Guinea Pigs 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was aShareWe were looking after a couple of guinea pigs for a couple of weeks while one of Aiden friends was away.The boys had to do all the work cleaning and feeding them.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Karate 2021 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I ShareAgain we did karate this whole year. This included a number of gradings followed by social events.I treated myself to a new gi (uniform) when I graduated to my 3rd Kyu.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Chess 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. ShareLucas has joined the chess club at school, so for fun (and to give him practice) we sometimes play. I was very proud that I one day managed to checkmate him with just two pawns and my king.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Piano and Guitar 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to stShareMid year I decided to get an electric piano. I've always wanted to learn and we wanted to boys to start playing as well.We have been using an online lesson system and it has been working really well for us. Especially Aiden seems to pick it up quickly.Aiden has also been begging to get an electric guitar, so this Christmas we got him one. It is fortunate that the same online lesson subscription also covers guitar playing.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims 50th 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with justShareKim had a big birthday this year. All the plans were ruined so it because a low key affair with just a family dinner.Plan: A - Europe trip - Covid cancelledB - New Zealand Ski trip (travel bubble was open) - Cancelled day before we were to leaveC - Staycation in Sydney - Locked down to local councilD - Staycation in same council - Restricted to 5 Km radiusE - Dinner at homeWe did however make up for it later with some golf and spa while she wasn't working.
29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley 29. December 2021 17:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wShareWe did another Hunter Valley Trip with Sasha and Richards families.Again we stocked up on a lot of wine.
29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Basketball Game 29. December 2021 16:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we toShareKA had some spare tickets for a basketball game between Sydney Kings and Melbourne Phoenix, so we took the boys.
23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Driving and Various 23. August 2023 20:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayedShareThe trip in New Zealand first landed us in Christchurch where we picked up our rental car and stayed the first night.Next day we drove through Arthurs Pass to Franz Josef (a long drive) where we stayed for three nights. This was mainly so that we had a spare day in case the weather closed in and we couldn't fly to the glacier.From there we drove to Queenstown via Wanaka and the Crowns Range (another long drive). We were lucky that this was open and that snow chains weren't required.Here we stayed for 5 nights whereafter we went to Twizel near Mount Cook for two night.Lastly we drive back to Christchurch to fly out.Queenstown is a scenic place, but lost of other scenic places along the way.
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Pukaki chapel 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographeShareAt Lake Pukaki there is this little beautiful chapel at the lake. Again this is a really photographed location and much more busy than I remember it.
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Skiing 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were wShareAt Queenstown we did 4 days of skiing at the Remarkables.The boys did two days of lessons and were with me the other two days. Some friends of our joined us in Queenstown, so for the other days I had Tod to go with, who is a very decent snowboarder.Aiden and Lucas are both becoming good skiers, but especially Lucas is getting really good to the point where I can bring him onto black runs.Although Kim is still very much a beginner she still did two days of skiing sticking to the beginner slope where there is a 'magic carpet' lift. I did see some improvement to last year, but she is still too scared to go on the proper lifts.I bought my own ski boots last year and brought them along (my feet are not compatible with rental ski boots).
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - West coast 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot oShareThe west coast of New Zealand is really beautiful.It is not very populated and there are not a lot of tourists either as it is hard to get to.We did a lot of walks in the area both around beautiful lakes and also at the beach outside Fox Glacier and Franz Josef villages.
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lake Wanaka and the famous most photographed tree. 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a smShareDriving back towards Queenstown we had to go through Wanaka. Boy, has it changed! It used to be a small place with maybe fifty houses, but now it is a proper town with lots of cars and traffic.It is very scenic approaching Lake Wanaka, and the lake itself has this tree growing in the water that photographers from all around the world come here to take photos of.
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Lindis Pass 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't thinkShareA place that I have always found really magical is driving through the Lindis Pass.Kim doesn't think much of it, but since I visited it the first time, I've alwas found the rolling hills and the colours absolutely stunning.
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Glacier Tour 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that woulShareKims highlight on the trip was to go up on a real glacier.She had booked a helicopter tour that would take up up on a section of the glacier between the two major ice falls.This is a section of the glacier that Andy and I dreaded having to walk through 20 years ago when we were climbing higher up on the glacier. Mind you, back then there was probably another 100 metres of ice on top of where we landed on this day.
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Castle Hill Boulders 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomShareDriving from Christchurch toward the west coast we passed the Castle Hills boulders.This is a phenomenal place to go climbing if you are a good boulderer. It is also quite scenic to just go for a walk.We saw lots of people with their bouldering mats (a soft mat to land on when you are climbing).
23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments New Zealand 2023 - Mount Cook 23. August 2023 19:08 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk wheShareAt Mount Cook we did a long 10km walk to the start of the Hooker glacier. It is a beautiful walk where you walk past the Tasman Glacier and Muller Glacier before you eventually come to the Hooker Glacier lake.The lake was frozen with an iceberg floating around in it.
25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day - 2022 25. December 2022 18:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oaShareAs usual, we did a family thing at Kims sisters house.At home I had Aiden make Havregryns Kugler (oat balls).
12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 6 Months - Pictured and Framed 12. March 2013 09:27 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 6 monthsShareLucas is now 6 months and is enjoying the easy life...On the weekend we went down to La Perouse to do these creative shots of him at sunset.I always said that I would take a photo of him and put it in a frame...but not sure if this is what everyone had in mind. It was pretty good fun trying to set it all up. A lot of other walkers on the beach were wondering what we were doing.I have been planning this photo for a while. The frame I had picked up from a garbage collection day last month outside a block of units with this particular photo in mind. The chair and table are bath aids and foot stools from home. It was really cool to see everything come together in the end. Unfortunately we missed just the end of the sunset as there were a few clouds on the horizon. A lot of lessons learnt came out of it. Even though the photos came out almost as I had envisioned...I still had a few things that I could have done better....just small things such as two flashes to light frame and Lucas independently, CTO gelling the flash to match the ambient, using an umbrella to avoid hard shadows, bringing a mid range zoom to have more composition options and be able to get a bit closer, use black string to hold up the frame instead of white, bring a pillow to keep his head up and then stripping his clothes and then bring my light meter to check the setting to start with instead of chimping.It was the first time I've used the D800 for this (in the past I've been using my D50 with a different shutter system) and I was worried that I wouldn't be able to balance out the ambient with the flash and still stay below the sync speed...but it worked out like a charm...or maybe I was just lucky!
12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kims Kitchen - Raspberries Creme Brulee 12. March 2013 09:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkims kitchen raspberries creme bruleeShareLast night Kim made a very nice Creme Brulee...Yummiiiii!!!!She asked me to take a couple of photos which I think turned out quite nicely.
12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Wildlife Park 2013 12. March 2013 09:15 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney wildlife park 2013ShareOn the weekend we went to the Sydney Wildlife Park at Darling Harbour.It was good fun to show Aiden all the different animals (Although he was pretty tired by the end).The highlight of the exhibition is the 4.5 meter long Saltie (Saltwater Crocodile). He is such a darling and he loved his girlfriends so much that he had them over for dinner (Ha Ha). Aiden wasn't sure about the crocodiles and definitely wasn't happy with the big mouth and all the sharp teeth......Daddy came to the rescue and threw himself at the monster.He was a bit more happy with the smaller cuddlier animals...Such as the wombats......the Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies......or even the Tasmanian Devil.The start of the exhibition is pretty amazing as you wank through a large enclosure with lots of butterflies flying around.And besides from that there is of cause a lot of lizards, frogs and snakes on display.
6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 5 Months 6. March 2013 09:33 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 5 months youngShareLucas is now 5 months and we did his monthly photos the other day together with Aiden. This also gave me an excuse to try out the new strobe I bought for photography (an Alien Bee B800) and it worked out great...so much better than trying to use multiple flashes inside a softbox to get enough power.Aiden and Lucas are already ganging up on us and sitting giggling together. They absolutely adore eachother although Aiden sometime can get a little rough with Lucas.Afterwards we went to the local Park to have a bit of a play (see previous post with photos of Aiden).
5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Aiden at Boralee Park 5. March 2013 03:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaiden at boralee parkShareThe other day we visited Boralee Park to let Aiden play and to take some photos of Lucas.Aiden is now definitely less afraid of playing and is quite happy zooming down the slides by himself...although he is a little cautious about the swing unless showing off in front of Lucas.
26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Sydney Aquarium 2013 26. February 2013 08:47 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetsydney aquarium 2013Share <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en"> <head profile="http://gmpg.org/xfn/11"><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /> <link rel="contents" title="Archive" href="/archive" /> <link rel="start" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="/" /> <link type="application/rsd+xml" rel="edituri" title="RSD" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/rsd.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="SIOC" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/sioc.axd" /> <link type="application/apml+xml" rel="meta" title="APML" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/apml.axd" /> <link type="application/rdf+xml" rel="meta" title="FOAF" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/foaf.axd" /> <link type="application/rss+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (RSS)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd" /> <link type="application/atom+xml" rel="alternate" title="Perfect Moments Photography (ATOM)" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd?format=atom" /> <link type="application/opensearchdescription+xml" rel="search" title="Perfect Moments Photography" href="http://perfectmoments.photography/opensearch.axd" /> <link href="/Content/Auto/Global.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0, maximum-scale=1.0, user-scalable=0" /> <script type="text/javascript" src="/en.res.axd"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/01-jquery-1.9.1.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/02-jquery.cookie.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/04-jquery-jtemplates.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/05-json2.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/Scripts/Auto/blog.js"></script> <!--[if lt IE 9]> <script src="/themes/yoko/js/html5.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <![endif]--> <link rel="shortcut icon" href="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/photo.ico" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="themes/PerfectMomentsLight/style.css" type="text/css" /><link rel="shortcut icon" href="favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" /> <script type="text/javascript"> function opacity(id, opacStart, opacEnd, millisec) { //speed for each frame var speed = Math.round(millisec / 100); var timer = 0; //determine the direction for the blending, if start and end are the same nothing happens if (opacStart > opacEnd) { for (i = opacStart; i >= opacEnd; i--) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("slideInfoObject.height='0px';slideInfoObject.visibility='hidden';", (timer++ * speed)); } else if (opacStart < opacEnd) { slideInfoObject.height = "50px"; slideInfoObject.visibility = "visible"; for (i = opacStart; i <= opacEnd; i++) { setTimeout("changeOpac(" + i + ",'" + id + "')", (timer * speed)); timer++; } setTimeout("opacity('" + id + "', 70, 0, " + millisec + ");", 3000); } } //change the opacity for different browsers function changeOpac(opacity, id) { //var object = document.getElementById(id).style; slideInfoObject.opacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.MozOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.KhtmlOpacity = (opacity / 100); slideInfoObject.filter = "alpha(opacity=" + opacity + ")"; } </script> <meta name="description" content="A Rene Pallesen Journal" /> <meta name="keywords" content="Blog,1997,1998,1999,2000,2001,2002,2003,2004,2005,2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016,2017,2018,2019,2020,2021,2022,2023,Book,Family,Aiden,Kim,Lucas,Rene,Travel,test" /> <meta name="author" content="Rene Pallesen" /><title> Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal </title></head> <body class="home blog"> <div id="page" class="clearfix"> <form method="post" action="/?callback=..%2F..%2F..%2F..%2Fetc%2Fhosts&page=48" onsubmit="javascript:return WebForm_OnSubmit();" id="aspnetForm"> <div class="aspNetHidden"> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTTARGET" id="__EVENTTARGET" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__EVENTARGUMENT" id="__EVENTARGUMENT" value="" /> <input type="hidden" name="__VIEWSTATE" id="__VIEWSTATE" value="dK1YEp78m4VRKhoscdY1+0XYF5hxbaLr4sH6f+s++slMVMHxA/x33YV7vlIUfdmAiYqaqmadY9u4EtgJk/8CVkKifT82rU3Rnfo8mP9felEIq41nlHctS4y2EXJJ/c7HcJv4kJQdppyJf7wtJz2bHkZBYrs98027nte/ABxOteh2IRdd" /> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ var theForm = document.forms['aspnetForm']; if (!theForm) { theForm = document.aspnetForm; } function __doPostBack(eventTarget, eventArgument) { if (!theForm.onsubmit || (theForm.onsubmit() != false)) { theForm.__EVENTTARGET.value = eventTarget; theForm.__EVENTARGUMENT.value = eventArgument; theForm.submit(); } } //]]> </script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=pynGkmcFUV13He1Qd6_TZKFmBG-AUY7YwSX-Eh_-So8UKa0fIVRDpGlQdJn4r3q4SNLVEw2&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="/WebResource.axd?d=x2nkrMJGXkMELz33nwnakCtZ34Mn6eBLBMlvZVv4Wb4Oh2imzvaEcSb41UN__ZKr_-NEfxOm8xbKr0mL-Fcwb5JstEM1&t=638883631099574018" type="text/javascript"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> //<![CDATA[ function WebForm_OnSubmit() { if (typeof(ValidatorOnSubmit) == "function" && ValidatorOnSubmit() == false) return false; return true; } //]]> </script> <header id="branding"> <nav class="clearfix" id="mainnav"> <div class="menu-page-menu-container"> <ul class="menu" id="menu-page-menu"> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/blog.aspx">Blog</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/portfolio-main">Portfolio</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/page/packages">Packages</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/contact.aspx">Contact</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/page/about-me">About</a></li> <li class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page"><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/syndication.axd"><img src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/logo_rss.png" /></a></li> </ul> </div> </nav> <hgroup id="site-title"> <h2><a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home">Home</a></h2> </hgroup> <div id="headerphoto" > <a href="http://perfectmoments.photography/" rel="home"><img width="1100" height="176" alt="" class="headerimage" src="/themes/PerfectMomentsLight/images/PMlogo.jpg"></a> </div> </header> <div id="wrap"> <div id="main"> <div id="content"> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_divError"></div> <div id="ctl00_cphBody_PostList1_posts" class="posts"> <article class="post" id="post0"> <div class="entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01<br> by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a> </p> </div> <header class="entry-header"> <h2 class="entry-title"><a href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" class="taggedlink">Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012</a></h2> <div class="single-entry-details"> <p>26. December 2012 10:01 by <a href="/author/Rene Pallesen.aspx">Rene Pallesen</a> | <a rel="nofollow" href="/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012#comment">0 Comments</a></p> </div> </header> <div class="entry-content"> <div id="AdnTop"><div class="AdnTopLeft" style="float:left"></div><div class="AdnTopRight" style="float:right"><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="TwitterButton"><div><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" data-text="Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2012" data-count="horizontal">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><script id="PlusOne" src="https://apis.google.com/js/plusone.js" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="PlusOneButton"><div><g:plusone href="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" size="medium"></g:plusone></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="DiggButton"><div><script type="text/javascript">(function() {var s = document.createElement('SCRIPT'), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName('SCRIPT')[0];s.type = 'text/javascript';s.async = true;s.src = 'http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js';s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1);})();</script><a href="http://digg.com/submit?url=http%3a%2f%2fperfectmoments.photography%2fpost%2fSydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&title=Sydney+Hobart+Yacht+Race+2012" class="DiggThisButton DiggCompact"><span style=" display:none">sydney hobart yacht race 2012</span></a></div></div><script id="FacebookShare" src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/connect.php/js/FB.Share" type="text/javascript"></script><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookShareButton"><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php" name="fb_share" share_url="http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012" type="button_count">Share</a></div></div><div style="float:right; padding-left:10px" class="FacebookLikeButton"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http://perfectmoments.photography/post/Sydney-Hobart-Yacht-Race-2012&show_faces=false&action=like&colorscheme=light&height=21&layout=button_count&width=80" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" style="border:none;overflow:hidden;width:80px;height:21px"> My Dad wanted to see the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race again this year. Unlike the last time we were there in good time this year and found a great parking spot and a fairly good vantage point of the race without too many crowds. While waiting for the race to start the James Craig was cruising back and forth outside the harbour. Once the race started and the boats passed the heads it became very busy both on the water and it in air with all the boats and helicopters (at one point I counted 11 at the same time) and my Dad was busy clicking away. This year turned out to be a new course record, so great conditions all the way to Hobart.
25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Day 2012 25. December 2012 09:44 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas day 2012Share Christmas Day we celebrated with Kims family at her sisters house. It was the usual crowd of our familys and everyone bringing dishes to share and as usual there was a lot of different foods to try. It was great to have the whole family together (Aiden was again eating too much). And even Santa made an appearance again this year...Thank you so much Santa!!!!!
24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Eve 2012 24. December 2012 09:28 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas eve 2012ShareThis year we celebrated Christmas at home with my Dad and his partner with the traditional Christmas Duck and Ris-a-la-mande. It was Lucas' first and Aiden's third Christmas...Aiden is now getting old enough to enjoy the experience... ...especially the food After dinner we opened presents according to the Danish tradition and Aiden was very excited about the big box from Bedstefar... ...containing a big truck. From Mummy and Daddy he received a Lightning Mcqueen car (radio controlled). ...and also a drawing pad. Merry Christmas...
22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Maroubra Beach December 2012 22. December 2012 01:24 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmaroubra beach december 2012ShareOn one of the days we took my dad to Maroubra beach for breakfast.It gave them a chance to check out what out local beach is like and also Aiden a chance to have a bit of a play in the sand.
21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kids Dad with Grandchildren 2012 21. December 2012 12:49 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkids dad with grandchildren 2012ShareAt around Christmas time Kims dad asked me if I could take some more photos of him and the grandchildren.Last year I took some of him using a blue background and he asked for something similar (although I am not a big fan of blue)
21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Family Photo 2012 21. December 2012 09:21 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas family photo 2012Share Every year I like to take a Christmas family photo. This year having my dad around meant that I could get hime to assist us with taking the photo as I needed someone to stand on a ladder taking the photo while we as a family was lying plat on a bed. Merry Christmas 2012 Everyone!!!!
21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Matraville Christmas Lights 2012 21. December 2012 09:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmatraville christmas lights 2012ShareEvery year some of the houses in Matraville puts on a spectacular christmas light show. Every night there are hundreds of visitors and it is worth seeing. Here are some of the lights from this years show.
21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Barrenjoey Lighthouse 2012 21. December 2012 08:54 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbarrenjoey lighthouse 2012ShareThis holiday season my Dad and his partner is visiting us from Denmark. It has been a while since he was here and in also a while since we were in Denmark, so Aiden had grown a fair bit since. The first couple of weeks we bought then some trips to various places such as Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains. One the weekends we would treat then to various dinners Thai, Indian, Moroccan, Brazilian, Aussie, Chinese etc. as well as try to make time to take them to see some of the sights around Sydney. The first weekend Aiden was sick so we had to cancel our trip up the Northern Beaches to Barrenjoey Lighthouse so we had to stay home and let them explore by themself. On the second weekend we managed to go there and bring Aiden along as well sitting in his little backback. It was a warm day and the climb is fairly steep so especially my dads partner was pretty hot by the time we reached the top where the light house is. The view was definitely worth it. Walking back along the beach we decided to make a drink stop to clench the thirst.
20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Merry Christmas 2012 20. December 2012 04:16 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetmerry christmas 2012ShareFirst of all Merry Christmas everyone!!! With a bit of arm twisting Kim finally agreed to let me do a series of 'sexy' Santa photos.A lot of work had to go into these couple of photos in terms of getting the outfit, but the right colour wrapping paper, wrap all the boxes, set them up to it looks nice, getting all the lighting right and not least convince Kim to do the actual shoot.Then I had to sort out the photos I needed and then do all the editing...I think the end result is pretty good and very much in the spirit of Christmas.And did I mention that I am married to the most beautiful (and sexy) Santa there is???
18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Lucas 3 months 18. December 2012 08:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetlucas 3 monthsShareLucas is now three months young and the other day I did a series of monthly photos of Kim and him on our bed.