Here, in Oz, Christmas comes in the hottest part of the year so we have to improvise. With half the state burned out, and continuing to burn, it's pretty difficult to round up six white boomers so we have to use a boat for the sleigh. A tradition that started almost 40 years ago and continues today sees Santa board a boat and visit a number of jetties around the western side of Lake Macquarie, New South Wales. At each stop lollies are handed out to the kids, and to some of the bigger kids. In between stops carols are played at great volume and lakeside householders show their approval by flicking lights on and off. The tradition began with a local show boat doing the rounds as a way to thank the lake people for their patronage. This boat has been retired for some time now so the local Rotary club took up the challenge and keeps the tradition alive.

To all, wherever you are, my best wishes for the festive season and the year to come.

My wife and I took a beautiful trip to Antarctica nearly one year ago now. It was one of the most incredible trips we have ever taken. We departed from Ushuaia, Argentina for our 14 day trip, and sailed across the terrible Drake Sea twice. We spent eight days sailing on the West side of the Antarctic Peninsula and associated islands.

I plan to make several installment postings of a few of the photos taken on this trip. I have not noticed any Antarctic photos on UHH this past year. So hopefully you will enjoy them. The first eight will follow.

Unfortunately I did not join UHH until after we came back from this trip. I was not a very good photographer a year ago. I have learned an incredible amount of sorely needed knowledge about photography from the old sages on this site. I am definitely a much better photographer today thanks to UHH. Please don't be too critcal of them. They were all taken with a Canon T5i.

This is my first time post. I have been following the forum for several months and really appreciate the sharing of experience, insight, and advice of the members, especially without judgement. Anyway, to my point – A few months ago my loving wife of 47 years gently took my hands, looked into my eyes, and calmly said “Dear, if you don’t spend it, I will.” Well, I am now enjoying my new D850, 24-70 f2.8, and 70-200 f2.8. While I am still learning about the camera, as its’ capabilities are clearly more advanced than mine, I have also learned that listening to your wife can be very rewarding in dealing with GAS attacks.

Wishing the best to all for the Holidays.