In self confession, my middle daughter Lillian, keeps our often chaotic household of strong willed women, ticking over. From a very young age, I think Lillian worked out that if she was going to survive/thrive in our often, slightly mad family, she was going to have to acquire attributes and skills that don’t necessarily come naturally to her sisters and I; that being, highly organised, a forward planner, a cleanliness obsessive, a great cook and, to counteract the challenges of living amongst the absence of these qualities, an optimistic outlook.
Trudie & her daughter Lillian
As a proud Mother, I can say she has achieved all of these qualities with bells on. Lillian turned 18 in 2020, and also completed her final year of high school and her HSC. Like so many other students that lived through their final year of high school during the pandemic, Lillian spent money months adapting to studying and learning online (tick the organisation bit). Unfortunately, Lillian missed her first 2 HSC exams due to illness, and also the rite of passage of having a formal graduation celebration that we had all taken for granted in prior years.
I decided to treat Lillian to some much needed time away. We both had tight work schedules and only had one night where our calendars aligned. One night! I decided to stay local and chose to spend the afternoon and evening with Lillian at the beautiful Anchorage Hotel & Spa on the marina at Corlette, less than an hours drive north from our home in Newcastle.
Trudie arriving at The Anchorage wearing the Loft Jacket
Without much time to spare, we made our way to Spa Lucca, where Danielle and her talented team of therapists, treated Lillian and I to the “OUD” treatment – an intensive and luxurious therapy for the face, body and mind. It was Lillian’s first ever massage experience, and we went straight to the top shelf. It was sublime.
Following a post treatment herbal tea in the beautiful relaxation lounge overlooking the water, we floated back to our room to get ready for dinner at the award winning relaxed fine dining restaurant “The Wild Herring”. Specialising in local fresh seafood, our tastebuds were treated to a 3 course meal, washed down with a beautiful hunter Rose. The Wild Herring has been named Best Seafood Restaurant in Regional NSW for 2 years in a row, and is absolutely well deserved. It was delicious.
After all that pampering and feeling absolutely spoilt, we were ready for bed! We both had to get back to reality early the next morning, so Netflix and another herbal tea in bed were in order. We made it only about half-way through the movie (Love Actually…it’s our favourite) before we were both in a blissful sleep in the most comfortable bed.
It was a beautiful stay, relaxing from the moment we arrived. Stunning surroundings, an amazing spa treatment, sublime food and warm, friendly service.
Most importantly, Lillian and I got to spend a special time together to celebrate her year that was and how she came through with great resilience, determination and success.
Thank you to Ali and his wonderful team for making a time together (albeit brief) such a special occasion.
A WELCOME GIFT
Mention "Eadie Escapes" when you book a stay at The Anchorage and you'll receive a complimentary bottle of sparking wine on arrival!
The Anchorage Hotel & Spa
www.anchorageportstephens.com.au/