Last days in Oz

What a whirlwind last couple weeks we had in Australia.  We tried to get outside and bask in the warm sunshiny weather as much as we could before heading back to the frozen north.  Lots of walks around Kirribilli, trips to the park, eating outside and ferry rides.  Already missing the loud screeching calls of the cockatoos (or pterodactyls as we affectionately called them), and the colorful lorikeets.

The last weekend was spent with our friends Dale and Libbie and their 3 beautiful boys.  We went to a local beach called Balmoral and walked around.  The weather was too cold and rainy to play in the water, so we just scoped out the area.  There was a nice playground the kids played on, and a nice walking path along the ocean.  That afternoon we went to Luna Park and had a blast!  We've walked past that amusement park hundreds of times, and finally were able to partake in the fun.

Isla's first carousel ride

The Ferris Wheel

Space shuttle

Micah and Isla on the dragon ride

No hands!

Mmmmm, bubble gum ice cream!  She actually shared some with us.

Daddy is a crazy driver

After a fun day riding all the rides, we came back to our place for a down-home midwestern meal: Tator Tot Hotdish!  Such a fun last Saturday!


The last week we were busy packing and cleaning.

Isla 'helping'

Ian decided to be sick - high temperature and very lethargic.  Poor guy.  On the plus side, he slept a lot so I could get more done!

When he wasn't sleeping, he was doing this.

My last sunset over the bridge

I will relish those sunsets.  It's amazing when embarking on a journey like this, that no matter how hard, or horrible, or homesick - only the good moments remain as memories.  Australia was a test of my strength, as a mother and wife.  It taught me many things about myself, mostly that I am capable of many things that I thought would be impossible.  I persevered and prevailed.

Getting settled back in at home has made me realize how easy life is here.  A house in the 'burbs, a station wagon, a Super Target just down the road (angels singing).  Friends, family, neighbors.  Oh, and things are CHEAP here.  I don't have to cringe when I buy a banana.  To put things in perspective, I bought 4 bananas the last week in Sydney and spend almost $11!  I know!  But I had to do it, Ian was sick and it was the only thing he would eat.  OUCH!

But I digress.  Home is good.  I like it here.  I think we'll stay a while.  :)

Our first trip to Super Target.  All eating FREE cookies from the bakery

We're happy to be home.

Love you all and thanks for reading!