Christmas Eve in New Zealand

We have been in New Zealand now for almost two months. Laura's parents, her brother and his family, and her sister and her family joined us this Christmas. We have been enjoying our time in our new home with many of our dear ones. These photos were taken on Christmas Eve 2008.

catching up....

Well I guess we're only a couple of months behind on posting now - can't upload any photos of Disneyland or NZ yet, as I have no idea where the cable for the camera is. Could be in any one of 200 boxes! Will get to it asap.

Summer!

We went for a splash and a play at Thanksgiving Point on the last day that Grandad and Grandma were with us.

Rich and Gracie take a hike

Hiking with Charlie

Early morning hikers

On our first morning at the grand canyon Mum and I snuck out early and took a hike to look at the Canyon. Standing with Mum on the rim, watching the sun come up was sweet indeed.

Arizona

As we set out on our journey, one of my goals was to get a decent photo of the six of us in front of some spectacular scenery - you know, a real framer. This is about the best of my attempts. Sigh!

Upon arriving at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, we went out to take a peek at the sunset. It was a gorgeous evening, and the girls couldn't help dancing.

Kanab, Utah

We took a road trip with Grandad and Grandma. Here are some pics from just outside Cedar City, and in a great little park we found in Kanab, Utah.

Charlie's Baptism

Charlie was baptised on Rich's birthday, August 9th. It was a great day, and we felt so proud of Charlie. It was wonderful that Grandma and Grandad could be there, and that so many of our lovely friends took the time to come and share the event with us. So many people did so much to help us before and on the day, and we are so grateful. Thanks, everyone.

Birthdays

I guess with all the planning for our big move, we have not updated the blog at all fora long time. Here are some photos from Amanda's birthday and Gracies' 5th. note the spectacular mermaid cake. Thanks, Grandma!

Noo Zilind

We are now officially in New Zealand. We arrived on Friday morning and have been busy learning how to collect shells, walk on sand and chase seagulls. Still looking for the perfect home for our family, but making progress. All are happy and well. Disneyland was a lot of fun en route from Salt Lake City to Auckland. Leaving Utah was very tough because it is such a fantastic place and the people there are so kind, fun and good. We miss our Utah friends but are making new ones here already.

Flip-Flopper

Summer-time in the US means flip-flops (or thongs or jandals). Even Josie is getting into the act. Rich gets a few funny looks from people when he wears socks with his flip-flops.

Family, Life and Eternity

Rich's friend Nigel just posted a commentary on www.newsroom.lds.org called 'The Grand Enterprise of Mormonism.' It is a very good explanation of where Latter-day Saints (like us) are coming from with respect to our understanding and beliefs on family relationships, life and eternity.

Parking

We are spending a lot of time at the park. Riding bikes, shooting rockets and planes, playing catch, finding green grass and shade to play and rest under. In the picture, we are packing up our toys and going home.

Charlie is Eight Now

More from This is the Place Park

This is the Place Park

Last night, our friends, the Kings, invited us to a family home evening at This is the Place Park. It was a delightful evening - lovely company, delicious food, great entertainment and beautiful surrounds. The children did not want to come home.

Grace's Graduation Ceremony

Grace graduated from pre-school this week.

Aviary visit

We visited an avairy in Salt Lake City with lovely friends Amakasus and Howells. It was great fun.