The TONGA Derby (Our version)

With the racing season apon us again and as you all would know Jodie Lee misses out for no man. Even if TONGA has no race track, no TAB and no riding horses Jodie will celebrate and wear Hats. With the chance of catching a race on the Australia TV channel the girls got together and dressed up for Derby day with a Tongan twist. All of our kids had Harry's and Ellie Rose's birthday party so it was off to John and Anni's (now 'AA' Annie Appletini) for some kid free time, dress ups and cocktails.

Drink No.1 and still 5hrs to Race No.1.

After a few cocktails and outfits it was back to reality and the kids but they headed off to tennis with Lyndon for an hour. While everyone else stayed at Tommy Tippee's (Rachel and Lincoln's) for the TONGA DERBY and the big screen. Sadly there was no telecast but Tommy Tippe had some previous experience in Is racing and had set up a phone betting account which he and Jodie placed a bet or two on. Don't panic though we had another backup for racing excitment. Lyndon had made some wooden horses and dice for races up and down the driveway. (Navy style racing)

In the starting gates!

First up were the kids

The peanut gallery off to the side!

John took charge of the more serious competitors. And we're off and racing! Lucky riding under the influence is accepted in our races, possibly even encouraged.

Lets just say the kids weren't the only ones who were emotional by the end of the night. But in all the horses got a good running.

Seeing Halloween isn't big or even celebrated here, as we found out the next night and with lollies at $15 for a small bag it ain't a surprise either. All the kids were more than happy to celebrate with some pumpkin head carvings after the sugar high of the birthday party celebrations.