The suitcases are sitting on my floor waiting to be packed, the walls have been freshly painted to cover up two years worth of hot wheels being chucked at them, we gave farewell talks in church today and I've been tearing up at the drop of a hat. I still can't believe we're down to the last week. I have so many emotions going on and thoughts swirling through my head, but for now I'm just trying to get caught up on the blog as much as I can before we leave. ANZAC (Australia New Zealand Army Corps) Day was really special this year. It's similar to our Memorial Day, a day to remember those who serve, and especially those who lost their life in service. Judy invited us to Pete's farm for the day. It's in a small town, and everyone knows that small towns do these sort of things right. A beautiful ceremony at the Town Hall and a solemn parade followed with punch and cookies for the kids. The kids have been learning all about the battle at Gallipoli (for which the day is marked) and everything associated with ANZAC day. I love hearing the things that they have learned, and I love that they have this opportunity to learn about so many different aspects of the culture and history here.
Maddox is all about the poppy flower. It is a symbol used on ANZAC day and he has grown quite fond of that little red flower.
We then spent the afternoon at the farm. Riding quads, going target shooting, grilling burgers in the sunshine, hiking to a waterfall, visiting a cemetery, and my favorite was ending the night in the hot tub under the stars belting out Bryan Adam's "Summer of '69" with Judy until we were hoarse (and the kids thought we were crazy). Those were the best days of our lives.....
Posts
3 comments:
What beautiful memories. Wonder if you'll retain more memories from these two years than from any other "average" year due to the "exoticness"... Time will tell. I'll ask you when we're on our rocking chairs, sharing a cup of tea, on some awesome verandah somewhere in 40 or 50 years time... :-)
What a perfect way to begin your LAST WEEK IN NZ! I cannot believe it's been two years!!! What an incredible experience you've had and friendships you've made. I know you dreamed about this experience for so long. I have a feeling it has exceeded all of your dreams. I love each of these pictures! It makes me so excited to kiss each of those cute kids and spend time with them. And you too of course :) Enjoy every last minute you have there and then hurry back home! Oh, I guess you can have an exotic month long vacation on the way home too :)
WOW! That farm is stuff dreams are made of! I think when I return I am just going to find Judy and hang out with her. I don't think I have loved a lady I hardly know so much as I do that one. What a perfect day.
Post a Comment