ON THE ROAD AGAIN!

Is My Blogger Broken?

2009-10-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

I like to write. I like to talk. You could say that I like communicating, Period. Then why do I feel so shut down sometimes? It's like my blogger button is broken and nothing can trigger that part of my brain that can put the words down for any reason. Even for you. And you deserve a blog. You read this and then you leave me little notes and make my day. I want to give it to you. But, my blogger is broken.

Even my Face Booker is broken. I can get a comment or two out. Maybe send a message. I check in as often as I can force myself to sign on. And I love to read you updates and bit and pieces. I feel your energy and it boosts my desire to give back.

Maybe some times in our lives just aren't meant for as much connection?
Maybe what we are doing requires enough emotional and physical stamina that at the end of the day or even at the beginning of it, there is not enough energy to pump out meaningful prose.

Or is it simply a matter of priority? Maybe my life isn't in order enough to be a blogger?

It's probably just because I don't have access to pictures that tell or at least initiate the story of our lives. There's no picture of the hotel in Virginia that we lived in for two weeks after we moved out of our unfurnished house so that the renters could move in. Poor Bart lived in a dumpy hotel for nearly 4 months!

There are lots of pictures of the trip cross country that took us 6 days of driving through Ohio, Chicago, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Wyoming and home to Heber. We saw the Badlands and Crazy Horse, Mt Rushmore, the Wall Drugstore. We even spent a night in Ohio with Bart's sister and her family then did a quick tour of the Dayton Airforce Museum which is unbelievable. Unfortunately, I haven't yet figured out how to get to them.

Somewhere in this computer are pictures of the babies I tended with my friend who runs daycare in her home. They were adorable and it made my life so sweet to spend time with the littlies and be with my sweet friend. I think I actually could adopt a child if we could ever settle down. LIke one friend says, "The loving is the easy part." It so was. I fell in love with those darling faces.

There's not one shot of the boys or my mom or Lynette or Barabara painting our huge garage off the house. It took forever. I even rented a scissor lift and had a lovely time scooting all over the palce and elevating myself to the highest heights at the push of a button. My aunt's boyfriend in California who is a professional painter suggested I buy myself a grinder. So I did. And I grinded the paint off every inch of trim. It was hot and long but we did it. It was gray. Now it's green with cream trim. Very pretty. I'll probably repaint the whole thing next year though as I tend to be finicky when it comes to color committments!

I wish I had a picture of the flood too. In May the house in Idaho flooded to the tune of nearly $40,000 worth of damage, all 3 floors. Ceilings were torn out along with all the carpet in the basement, all the hardwood hickory Bart installed himself 3 yrs ago, walls that I had painstakingly faux painted. A ton of the nutty alder trip was ripped out as well. Then I would put a picture right next to all that of my friend Stephanie who stepped in to organize the repair of it all. She managed the entire project in a way we couldn't have done ourselves even if we had been there, which we weren't. And Australia is far away. Feels even further when something like that happens. Then I would have to put in a plug for Barb who set up the cleaning company coming and Bro. Bell who figured out how to turn off the water and Sis. Frei who actually who just happened to be doing her RS visit to the new renter and found the water streaming down the living room windows! And lets not forget Belinda, the renter, putting up with all of that mess for 2 months!!

On a more pleasant note I would love to get the picture from my mother in law of all the cousins doing their homework together. My two boys and Bart's sister's kids were happily studying away after school one day. All at the same table, helping each other out. So cute. They have been getting so well. It is a joy to see. We have a great routine here and the cousins make it all easier.

Speaking of cousins they're leaving right now. So, I am signing off. Hope my blogger heals quickly!

Patrick Inn Penn

2009-09-08T05:28:00.000-07:00

So, we're doing some hard time here at the Patrick Inn Penn. Hard to tell sometimes whether you're being blessed or cursed!! (laugh loudly here) Not that it matters since it's all for our good but wow. There's no fridge, microwave, couch, x box (sad faces). There are no neighbors to serve, no friends to laugh with, no way to make cookies!!
We need a purpose, something do do that is meaningful. What a reminder of how important each and every moment of each and every day is and that being "anxiously engaged in good works" has much more to do with our own well being than anyone else's.

We manage to keep busy for much of the day but then wind up watching tv for the rest of it. There are so many interesting things to watch. Did you know there's a channel about Buddy, a baker in Hobokan, NJ? He's a genius! We watched him make a life size dinosaur out of pound cake, chocolate, a ton of Royal Frosting and some powdered food coloring. The most amazing was watching him make the boiling water for his "Take the Plunge" cake ( a huge cake pot with lobsters poised to jump into the hot water, sculpted out of chocolate and corn syrup clay dressed to look like the bride and groom!!) by pouring some isomalt syrup over a bag of actual ice. It hardened to look like frothy water!

And, had you any idea that there are gangs running rampant in Nashville, Tennessee? Brown Pride is one of the leading groups. Lately they have fought with a one out of El Salvador. El Gordo, the BP king pin laughed as talked about gunning down his threat whenever and wherever he possibly could. They stake claims to the alleys all over the city. Tennesse has the loosest gun laws in the country making the violence between rival groups that much more serious. Lacy and Brett, be careful!! On a lighter note, Bart and Riley were thrilled to watch the BYU game. They played somebody in red uniforms and it was close. Sounds like BYU won mostly because the opposing team lost their quarterback (Heisman trophy winner dude) so lucky them. Grandpa Packer might have other thoughts on that. (chuckle here) Bart did suggest that they had some great plays earlier in the game and that, had they actually gained the points from them, would have given the Y a good chance at winning as well. Since, according to Bart's explanation, he loathes BYU except for when they are playing someone besides the U it's hard to see why he would be defending their play or hooting and hollering over their successes or moaning over their mistakes. Hate to say it honey, but you LOOK like a fan. Sorry.

I am certain my family and I have lost more precious brain cell function in the past 3 days than a veteran heavy weight does in his entire boxing career!! It's like this tv magnet has pulled us in and every day we have to tear ourselves away. We can watch that thing till late into the night and still have to force ourselves to push that little red button on the remote.

My version may be a tidge over the top. Don't get me wrong. Sunday Bart took us to Chesapeake for the day where we crossed a 17 mile stretch of bridge and tunnels over and under the sea, had a gorgeous lunch at a hole in the wall restaurant called Sting Ray. Yesterday we went to the movies, and not just any trip to the movies either. We saw All About Steve at this theater where you order food and then wait for them to bring it to you during the show. The food was pretty bad but the movie was entertaining.
And, it is nice to be together even if we are going a little stir crazy. Poor Jeremy has resorted to kick flips on his skateboard, inside (groan). Thank goodness it's Tuesday. Bart is back at work so there's one less person to fight over the remote!!

Kelli and boys

Early AM Surprise!

2009-05-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

I am on the Wildlife Ambo (Ambulance) rotation this week. It's been very quiet. We responded to a call to pick up a lorikeet with a 'broken' wing, which happily flew away the following morning, hee, hee. I mean it wasn't the nicest take off of a wild bird I have ever seen but he was air born! There was also a lady with a snake in her yard, the woman who had found a puppy without a collar. We don't "do" snakes or puppies so, yeah, kinda boring. You just throw them a few numbers of others who handle that stuff. Yesterday morning that all changed. I answered the phone ringing me out of a sweet, deep sleep. ( We handle all calls between 5 pm and 8 am)I heard a man's alarmed voice informing me, "I have two koalas in my house! I have no idea how they got in but there's one in the lounge and one in my boy's bedroom!"

Sure enough, we found a gorgeous, fat healthy koala sitting quite comfortably on the lounge room floor and another in a back bedroom between the wall and the bed. At home in the lovely and tidy house, unflustered by the excitement they had caused, they treated the space like their own place happy to leave their doo doos on the floor. The owners were quite accommodating as it is spectacular to see a koala in the wild much less have one visit in your own house, oh, and the fact that they can rip your insides out with those claws is another great reason to let them have their way!

As you can see, we gathered them up and set them on the other side of the fence where they happily escaped up trees! That sounds and looks SO much easier than it was. Thanks to my capable companion, Stephanie, who orchestrated our rescue and release plan all went smoothly, never mind that the koala nets are ripped to shreds! It's a true adrenalin rush to have hold of a bagged koala thrashing wildly and grunt screaming for it's life!! I like to think they were grateful in their own way. We were sure thrilled to be a part of returning them to familiar ground.

Bart was disappointed to have been out of town. Poor guy. He's my true wild man and would have loved it. If he had been here, though, I would have been faced with a real test of my courage, 7 young men and 3 young women in SEMINARY! Hee, hee. All kidding aside, I couldn't help but find myself comparing the challenges of each setting. Hmmm, teaching the scriptures to teenagers at 6:50 am, manhandling wild koalas? Hmmmm, it's a tough choice depending on the day and their moods!

Serendipity or Something Else?

2009-04-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

So I have been at it again. "It" is addiction. Yup, I eat sugar till I'm sick on a regular basis. It's not necessary to convince any of you of the damage this has done to my life. I know it. That's all that matters. Because I know it, I will never give up seeking freedom from it.

Last week was another "first week off" from sugar. It was bad, in so many ways! I offended so many people. One of them was my sweet little seminary gal. We'll call her Surfer Girl. So, to be honest, Surfer Girl is one of our least well behaved students (she has admitted this herself though I am quite sure reading the truth would be a different thing!). No matter that she is a senior, and our class president, and totally delightful and responsible in sooo many ways. (If you're reading this SG, you know it's true!), she can really push your buttons ( you know that's true too, sweetie), if you know what I mean. So far I have happily maintained a sense of love and affection for her. If she came in stomping her feet and declaring that she hated seminary I didn't take it personally. When she rolled out her homework and ignored my efforts at the lesson I could calmly choose to address it or ignore it depending on the day. Her declarations of "This is stupid" while we attempt to get a good ole Scriptury Mastery game going received mostly patient corrections on my part.

Not true for last week. At one point she gave me a wicked little smirk and asked, "So, is SOMEONE having a bad day?" when she noticed my distress at not being able to find a game piece for the activity I had spent hours preparing. It seemed obvious to my deranged and addicted mind that she meant it as a jab. She seemed thrilled knowing that I was stressing out. I quickly offered that I would be happy to find her a place in someone else's class. Mmmmmhmmm! That's right baby. I stuck it to her. Gave her back a little of her own medicine. She had it coming, right?!

So why did I feel so stupid? How come I thought about her off and on for days afterwards? And I wonder why, after that, she seemed like my little enemy instead of my dear little Surfer Girl? I was sure she hated me. All respect was thrown out the window (the addict in me is VERY dramatic, hee, hee)! I had damaged our relationship beyond repair, blah, blah, blah.

A little voice inside my soul whispered, "It's going to be o.k." "Everyone has a bad day." Oh, and lest I forget, "You do need to apologize." So I set my heart on talking to her but wondered how I would find the opportunity. Should I speak to her face to face? Call her on her phone? Text her? Email her? I wasn't sure how big or small the apology should be or what I should say. All I knew was that I had some cleaning up to do.

Wouldn't you know it? Sunday. We're sitting in church. At one point into the meeting Jeremy leaves to the restroom. Riley is already in the back monitoring the door as the 14 year old boys do so I am left alone. Late and scurrying in a hurry, here comes the valuable moment for which I have been hoping. Surfer Girl and her mom plop down in my row. It's never happened before.

It took me about 30 seconds to write out the short apology on the back of my used grocery list. Basically I reminded her of what I had said and told her that I loved her and that the truth was I would miss her terribly if she were not in our class. I meant it from the bottom of my heart. Her response? Pretty typical. There was a lot of "Ha, ha, ha" and a "I don't even remember that." but then there was the important part, "I forgive you."

More than serendipity is my vote. I count it as one more small but powerful miracle in my life.

By the way, Surfer Girl was the rockin' best she has ever been in seminary today ( mostly because she's done with her assignments!). I think she'll change the world!! She's that cool!

Barely Bloggin

2009-04-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

I have just spent far too much of my sacred sleeping hours browsing blogs. Am I the only one that gets sucked into checking out catchy titles of unknown bloggers? Before I know it I am bonding with strangers. It's actually very fun but stressful. I thing it's the rational little voice persistently urging me to, um, doy, GO TO BED!! You don't now these people. You never will. They don't care and neither should you. Go be productive.

So to all of you that I already know and love, thank you for your posts. I will continue to indulge in delightful moments of reading all about anything you have to say or looking at any picture you choose to upload. As for the rest, sorry dudes, I got a life to live you know. I'll miss you but sometimes we just have to say good bye. It's for the best. You'll see.

Goodnight.

On the Road Again

2009-01-25T21:33:00.000-08:00

Yup, we are! We are on the last week of a 4 week trip home to the states. We have been in Heber, California, Idaho and now it's back to Utah. There have been so many fun moments that we'll treasure until we can make some more! The boys have had a couple of "sick" (that's a good thing!) ski trips up at Kelly Canyon. They have pulled each other on snowboards behind the 4 wheeler in the snow at Grandma and Grandpa Packer's house and had unbelieveably late nights watching movies and playing XBOX at Brumfields. Jeremy had the unique thrill of surfing with a pro, Uncle Jimmy. Big Jimmy said he has potential so we'll have to hook him up when we get back to Australia. There happen to be a couple of nice places to surf over there.

We had the pleasure of stealing our cousin Kylee away for as much of our California activities as possible. She had a mysterious knack for keeping Riley and Jeremy both entertained, or at least distracted, by their constant need to constantly entertain her! A very nice arrangement, I must say.

Grandpa Riley took us to the border fence between San Diego and Tecate. It is remarkable and reminds me of a snake. It slithers through the hills beyond what is visible straight up and over whatever lies in it's path. He's working on installing the gaps in the original fencing, which is an unattractive cut in the landscape made of six foot sections of metal sheets, with the new fence. The new design is unusual and well thought out. It's 18 feet tall with tubes every 5 or so inches that are set on a diagonal. The spaces allow the border patrol to see exactly what's happening on the other side. Now how come they didn't think of that the first time?! To make climbing it more difficult the last 5 feet are flat steel. Once installed, each tube is filled with cement and then capped. Surprisingly, it is a pretty cool looking fence. It was definitely cool to be so close to the work going on there. The icing on the cake was riding in Grandpa's work jeep. That thing took us up and down things that looked impossible to climb or descend!! Here's to keeping the drugs out of California!!

Oh and have I mentioned the food? Carne asada burritos from the place Grandma and Grandpa R have been frequenting for the past 40 years. They swear it hasn't changed one ounce! They were sooo good. Of course, we were met at the door with the smell of fresh baked, way too delicious, chocolate/butterscotch chip cookies by Grandma R. We ate those till we were sick. O.K. so it was just me, but still, very good. There have been yummy lunches, one by the beach near Aunt Robin's and Hannah and Ben's in Cardiff by the Sea, a couple at local lunchos in Idaho Falls, some yum trips to Cafe Rio type restaurants in Utah. You know, where you get your home made tortilla, special meat, beans of your choice, sweet or mexican rice, etc, etc. and best of all, HORCHATA! Mmmmm. No offence please, dear Australia, but your Mexican food totally stinks. Sorry. We have had at least two delectable overnight french toast breakfasts with buttermilk syrup. Very naughty and all my fault I am afraid. Tonight Mike and Laura pulled out some lovely ice cream, Reeses and Chocolate Brownie something or other. Mmmm, with a little milk and stirred together, just like a milkshake. Thankfully my jeans seem to be happily growing right along with my hips. That's what I call a useful wardrobe!!

Oh, the funny for the night! I almost forgot, (and then I am , yawn, going to bed, I swear). You know that buttermilk syrup I mentioned. Well, when it gets cold it separates and gets cloudy and lumpy on top and clearish brown underneath. It looks just like some kind of cooking fat you have poured off to cool and now needs to be dumped in the garbage. Anyway, my sister Jen showed up later in the evening. We had all been munching on some apples and I cut myself a slice while she was watching. I couldn't resist adding, "Mmmmm, now I'll just slather this with some of this bacon fat (hee,hee)," as I spooned a big gob of it onto my apple and quickly stuck it into my mouth! Horrified. Sickened. Disgusted. Yeah, that just about covers it. I thought she was going to toss her cookies right there on the kitchen counter. It was awesome!!!

Time for bed. Big day tomorrow. Who knows who we'll see, what we'll eat or where we'll go but if we're lucky it will be just as lovely as every day up till now has been. (Not counting the two root canals!!) So thanks sweet husband for letting us come. Thanks to family and friends for your love and hospitality. And for the patience of those who are waiting for us to actually show up! We're on our way!!

Don't Take No For An Answer!

2008-09-18T06:06:00.000-07:00

They look like dolphins, I know that. But they are NOT! They are whales and they were gorgeous. Fine, we can see that but what does that have to do with not taking "no" for an answer Kelli?

Let's go backwards from this glorious moment of experiencing the wonder of whales in the wild to what happened three hours earlier. (I'll try not to go on and on!)

I booked this tour, see, for my Aunt Robin, a great friend, Liz S. and myself. Turned out that when I called to confirm, as you do, there were no spaces left on the boat. I felt totally accountable since it was late notice. Me, being me, said, "I see. Well thanks anyway. Maybe we can come another day." Never mind that I had been working full steam to pull this off. Schedules had been changed, favors had been asked, all roads were leading to a highly anticipated day out on the ocean.

Well, in short order Miss Liz arrives. Upon hearing my woeful tale she marches me right upstairs to the phone. "Don't take no for an answer!" "Call them back." Me, being me, said, "o.k." Wouldn't you know the gal offered to get us in on another vessel. After many phone calls back and forth between the gal that was helping us and the company that signed us on, some serious driving during rush hour traffic and a mad (and might I add clumsy) dash through Sea World's maze of a path to the dock we finally arrived huffing and puffing and only slightly mortified to have held a massive touring boat with all of it's guests up for 10 minutes. Ooops!

It turned out to be THE perfect day of whale watching. We whooped it up yelling, per the captain's helper's direction, for them to come say hi. We waved our arms and stamped our feet along with the rest of the folks eager to attract who we were dying to see up close. Unbelievably they came. The rolled and dove. We saw a pod of 2 then a pod of 3 come cruise right next to the ship. I swear they were looking at us, checking us out. It was truly fantastic.

There was even time to catch a bite to eat at a cafe along the ocean and shop for treasures. In fact, Robin found the perfect didgeridoo for her son and some darling little goodies to take home for her daughter. All in all it was a day I am soooo glad we didn't give away to a simple "no".

Lovely Lady with her Linens

2008-08-15T05:35:00.000-07:00

This is my sweet friend June. I have enjoyed getting to know her over the past few months. She and her husband, Martin, share a home with her youngest daughter, Liz (my wonderful buddy) and her family. Since Martin suffers with Alzheimer's June's life is mostly about his care. Her back hurts, she has sore knees, there's and issue with her blood pressure and lately she has been sidelined by migraines. Talk about endure to the end!! So if anyone had a great excuse for letting the housework suffer it would be June. Heaven knows the slightest distraction can keep me from it! Long story short, I was borrowing some sheets for a guest and happened to get a good look at the linen closet that June maintains. I was shocked! While I stood, mouth agape, staring in disbelief she fussed about how there were a few things out of order and "wouldn't it be nice if she could clean that bottom shelf up a bit". As it turns out she was just as tidy when her little ones were little. By the way gals, she bore 5 children in 6 years! My friend Liz was the caboose arriving nine years after number 5. She's not sure why but keeping a tidy place and organized space has always come easily to her. Well June, of your many talents this is one sure to impress. I love you and thanks for letting me share it.

A few pics from Vanuatu

2008-07-17T18:02:00.000-07:00

My that's a big turtle you have there. What do you do with that? Eat? Are you kidding? Oh, the whole village eats off it. For ceremonies? Ah, I see. Good idea. Maybe we'll just throw a gigantic wooden turtle on the table at the next family reunion to cut down on clean up. Brilliant!
Kava, freshly picked, dried and ready to grind. Add water and you have the most popular drink in all the islands of Vanuatu. Each island has a kava plant different than all the others. They ship heaps of it to Fiji, Samoa, The Solomon Islands, New Caledonia and Hawaii. It acts as a mucle relaxer and something else I can't remember. It was a major part of each nightly ritual.
Our little pyro's dream life, fires (four in one room!) in the house!! They were exceptional at building long lasting hot fires and they keep them going all night long. The smoke works it's way out the woven ceilings. Yes, it's hard to breath, but you're so darn tired sleep does come.
Big scary warrior! This is John and his little boy. Too gorgeous. Or as they might say in Bislama, Gorgus tomas!

Jeremy was the only one to get this kind of VIP treatment!

This is our guide family. Bart and boys with Vira, Mura, Donald (forward), Vitu (in blue), Alexi (Namba 1 Guide Leader) and Avo. They were extremely helpful and carried ridiculous quantities of our stuff (most of it unnecessary!) up that trail. Could not have done it without them.

This was taken from the road looking up towards our destination. Maracae is nestled somewhere behing those clouds on that furthest mountain top. Boy was I excited! (whatever!)

New Friends

2008-07-16T01:48:00.000-07:00

In this first pic, Chris,a very nice young man innocently handed over the phone number to the resort he was headed to while we chatted at the airport. Little did any of us know that we would end up being roommates! We really enjoyed getting to know him and hearing about his diving adventures. He had a knack for getting to know folks and always came back with a new story on the interesting character he'd spent the afternoon chatting with. Thanks for taking us in! Remember, be careful who you talk to in the airport!

Pic number 2 is from left to right, Madison, Sadie, Julie and Jordan. Julie is with the Peace Corp. These are some of the family she was hosting during her break/vacation. Her job as the only Peace Corp worker on her island is daunting but you can tell by her countenance that the sacrifice and challenge of it has it's reward. It was great to get to know these guys a little bit. Hope your travels continued safely and well. Our best to Madison and Jordan in their studies and to Sadie and Grace (not shown) with those tough adolescent years!

Number 3 is Maurine. We got her as a birthday present for both boys! They seemed very pleased and vied constantly for her attention. She is a French foreign exchange student with a feisty personality that won these boys' hearts from the first time she warned them during the night games, "You scare. I FIGHT!" You can tell she comes from having two brothers!

Thank you Maurine for making the Vanuatu trip one they'll remember forever. Or at least they'll remember YOU forever! We hope you enjoy you last few weeks in Australia and that somewhere down the line we'll see you again.

In the 5th pic you'll find the lady that forged the friendships in the very begining with all her raucous rounds of cards. Elizabeth broke the ice for Maurine and the boys and then integrated everybody into the huge Scouting activity she had part in planning over the last 18 months. Our guys felt part of the gang and made so many friends. It was a spectacular time for them. I am still not sure how she and the other scout leaders (she's pictured with key leader of the Vanuatu scouts, Calva (sp?) kept up the pace of it all. There were activities daily including many of the local scouts. They even built a flying fox! My favorite memory will be the one of the scouts silhouetted against a huge bonfire next to the ocean at the Lonnoc bungalows and listening to them singing in the night.

This last photo looks all sweetsie but what the pic doesn't show is that moments before she purposely whacked him right on his sunburned back. He's protecting himself and getting ready for the next attack! Don't get me wrong. Inspite of the pain he 's loving EVERY minute of it! Hee, hee

Mud, Steamed Bananas and Naked Ladies (Part I)

2008-07-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

Life hands us remarkable opportunities to learn and grow. Sometimes the very thing that beckons for a blessing is the thing that fills our souls with dread. So, even if you find yourself near tears at the thought of it you must pack your bags (and fears), gather your courage (along with as many snacks as can fit in your fannypack), put on your (sorta) smiley face and go. The opportunity? A four day, 3 night trek into a village called Maracae. The blessing? Well, read for yourself:

My gut told me that Bart's last minute plan to take a guided tour into the mountain rainforest to find the most primitive villages existing in the archipelago of Vanuatu was, though not altogether bad, going to be awful. I am not proud to say that the little voice in his head that whispers, "Go where no (or at least, the fewer the better) man has gone before" was nearly attacked by the little guy on my shoulder screaming, "Are you crazy?! What about a hot shower? Feeding the kids? Our safety? Drinking water? Malaria? A bed?!!"

Thankfully, my fearful cries were met with calm assurance that it would be a wonderful adventure of a lifetime. So inspite of the sure knowledge that the boys and I were doomed to suffer for 4 solid days (love that attitude, hee, hee) I climbed, of my own free will and choice, right into the truck while the boys and Bart jumped in the back for a long ride out on a pot holed road over washed out bridges to the starting point of our trek to Maracae at the village of Namoru.

There we met our 6 porters who would come to know as: Alexi, Our leader and "Namba one kide!", Vitu the Mt. Man and class clown, Maru, Pumpkin Man, who is originally from the village of Maracae and who would at one point on the last night show up in full "kastom" dress to make the kava for the evening like some warrior from the jungle (Did I detect a tinge of insecurity in my cute hubby when faced with such raw testosterone in his comment, "That Maru is quite the specimen."), Vira, who would become my quiet friend, always making an effort to translate, always there with a vice like grip supporting me across the rocks, Donald and Avo singers of silly songs (I like to move it, move it!)and shepherds to their two younger followers, Riley and Jeremy, always taking to the front.

After the intial awkward minutes of our first meeting, the shifting of gear to balance weight in the packs, hunting up a couple of extra packs for the village gifts of sugar, salt, tea, cigarettes and flour (basically our payment for staying the night) then trying to strap Bart's gigantic pack onto a little Vitu, we were off. Little did we know how key these 6 boys were to our successful completion of this endeavor.

For our barefoot locals it was a strenuous but typical effort leading to family and friends. For two less than perfectly fit, slightly overweight grown ups it was akin to a last minute, poorly planned Grand Teton summit. As for the solemn 14 year old it seemed another annoying yet tolerable life experience at the request of his parents which he would do his best to endure. Our 11 yr old had put up quite a fuss originally but ultimately was more or less contented to walk through the village, along the Wailapa river towards a world of mud, steamed bananas and naked ladies.

Why is that the title anyway? There were loads of options, Vanuatu Vacation, Roughin' It in the Rainforest, Kastom Kulture, Lost on Vanuatu, Bare Breasts and Penis Sheaths (forgive me, but, yes, it was an option). After the fact, am I that simple? Those are the 3 points of major interest? Hmmm, o.k.

After about 40 minutes it got dangerous. Seriously. The pleasant trail disappeared. I was like an ignorant beast of burden following my leader. Common sense told me we couldn't continue on. There was no path. And then there I was, clinging to the face of a wall of rock that appeared abruptly. The porter in front of me indicated the tiniest outcrops for placing 1/2 a foot or a toe tip. It was slick and wet. I worried about my children, for like, 2 whole minutes. To my surprise the job of self preservation was a nice distractioin. Plus, there was nothing I could do to help them. We were clearly at the mercy of these 6 new people in our lives, the weather, the elements, and the villagers we were yet to meet.

From there on out much of the trip was about survival. We gasped with each step up each mountain side (Who needs switchbacks? Let's just go straight up!) and slipped our way down the back of it. I found myself needing to reassure my knees and quads, "Don't worry. When we get back I promise not to MOVE for a month!!" I couldn't get enough water which was in short supply. I was sooo thirsty most of that first day. There were several places where we forged barefoot across the river. Where it was possible to keep shoes on we hopped from rock to rock with the aid of helpful hands for support.

I noted that being the "man" of our family Bart was more inclined to fall in the river. It wasn't until after several such spills that he was able to swallow his "tough" guy pride and take the help offered him. Who can blame him? He's climbed mountains in Peru, repelled massive drops in Kolob Canyon, summited the Grand Teton no less than 2 times, waded the Amazon river and forest (With his Mom, by the way! You go Girl!!) and ridden (with absolutely NO previous training) his bicycle 2500 miles from Vancouver, Canada to Anchorage, Alaska. Now he's supposed to allow himself to hold hands with a 24 year old Vanuatu boy (who is already carrying his backpack!) to cross a little river!!? Are you kidding? Nope. In the end the blisters, bad back, sore knees and ruined camera won out for the more humble approach. Good man Bart. I love you.

So where was I? This trip of all trips. The trip Bartman probably always dreamed of and I have certainly dreaded is now tucked deep in our hearts, tattooed on our muscles and bubbles away in our memory. You'll see. If you have time, keep reading.

Within 2 hours we arrived at the first of several villages we were yet to see, Jarakatui. We quickly learned that during daylight hours most people were out in the gardens deep in the hillsides. It is custom to leave one or two men and a woman with the young children. This is where we saw John. Dressed in traditional thick woven belt with finely woven apron, he stood like a tall, dark, muscled soldier of the forest. His hair was shorn except for one patch of 3 short braids at the crown. He would have been extremely intimidating except for the green blankie holding a sweetly sleeping baby in his arms. The gushy little smile he made looking down at her melted out hearts. Fortunately, Bart got a great picture! It's one we treasure.

Every bit as impressive, the Chief's Son acknowledged us then disappeared as we sat dripping in sweat, catching our breath and smiling and nodding while John and the woman and children in camp shyly eyed us. We heard a whack, whack sound and looked at Alexi. "He's cutting sticks for walking. For you." Within in 5 minutes he was back with a great walking stick for each of the 4 white people. Man was he good with that machete! I would have taken hours hacking away to make something much less useful. And it made all the difference. From that moment our sticks were our best friends.

The break was sweet but short. Amazingly we were back on the trail and moving up another mountain side. We passed the Natangora trees that are used for building the kastom houses. The boys pointed out the Kava plant and the many different kinds of banana trees. Maru climbed a gigantic Pomplemousse (a huge grapefruit) tree and dropped as many as he could reach or shake off. The boys cut them into juicy quarters. It was a deliciously refreshing treat. (One that we could come to crave right up to the last minute before leaving to catch our flight home.) The rainforest is thick with countless bushes, grasses, ground covers, trees and vines of all kinds. I loved the purple flowers and the tall red ginger plants. Once we stumbled on a mama goat and her twin kids. Another time a cow tied to a tree. There were a few pigs along the way as well. Fortunately, no snakes.

With the concentration on the work of climbing and dropping it was late in the hike on the first day before I took a moment to look back from the considerable elevation we had attained. Oh my word. It was incredible. My eyes followed the glimpses of river shining down in the valley to the edge of the ocean filling the distant floor. Floating in it but also somehow just above it was an island. There was a misty element that suspended this mass of earth just about 1/2 mile off shore. I hope there's a good pic of that. It was pretty cool.

Finally we stopped for the night at the village of Tabunbotari All I wanted was out of my shoes!! After a good scrub in the creek it was time to meet the Chief Chaunbose. He was tiny. So skinny and shy. He shook our hands, assigned us to a different hut and then mostly lay on his mat until time for the ceremony. Soon the guides were busy preparing the kava by putting the peeled branches and roots through a meat grinder then mixing it with water, straining it and mixing it again ( it took till the 3rd day to see the whole process). We were kept separate from the house where the the woman was cooking. I asked the boys to tell her I would help do anything but she didn't want help to the point of seeming nonplussed at my asking so I happily took my weary bones off to sit on a bench in front of the hut while the boys killed some time till dinner playing cards. We were awfully wet, tired, dirty and hungry.

"Number one rule. You must have ceremony with Chief." Once the kava was prepared they brought it in a bucket with old mugs. The chief gives a welcome speech (very short in order to get to the best part, gifts and kava). Bart (I guess he would be considered our chief, hee, hee) then handed him the plastic bag loaded with goods. Next, Chief Chaunbose gives Bart a mug of kava. Bart drinks it. Everyone claps. Then the boys each get one. They drink it one by one and everyone claps. Then Bart hands a mug to the Chief. He drinks it. Everyone claps. Last, the boys and Bart hand out mugs to the guides. They drink, one by one. Everyone claps. Got it? Drink, clap. Drink, clap. That's a kastom kava ceremony. Very romantic. It happened similarly without fail every night. After a couple of rounds we would be welcomed to stay or ushered to a hut for sleeping. At one point I learned that Alexi typically drinks 35 shells of kava when he's working as a guide. He told me, "I feel soo happy when I drink kava". The boys said it tastes like dirty water and gives you a tinny taste in your mouth. Later I confirmed my suspicions with a ward member that kava is completely off limits for Mormons. Ooops. Just between you and me, I am glad I didn't know for sure. One morning I was the only one sick while the boys and Bart were healthy as ever. We wondered if a shell of kava would have done me good!

Actually, a valium probably would have been more suitable for the first night. All I remember of the sleeping part (o.k. the WISHING you were asleep part) was the hard dirt floor, a pervasive dampness, acrid smoke from 4 fires burning through the night and the quiet talk of the guides in Bislama as they lay cherishing the last puffs on their rationed cigarettes. All night we woke from the pain of joints screaming for relief from the weight of our bodies. I felt like a pig being roasted on a spit as made half turns that brought comfort for a moment and then the pain again. It was a very looong night.

But let's not skip dinner shall we. Here I take my hat off to our two boys. When our meal arrived in a big metal pot and the lid was removed to reveal soggy steamed bananas and cooked cabbage leaves they dug right in! My boys ate bananas wrapped in wilted lettuce. It was unnatural and wrong but they acted as if it was a weekly occurrence. I heard not one complaint. We all ate what we could and commented on the fact that it wasn't too bad. No problem. Thank you very much. There may also have been some cooked taro. I don't remember. Just think bland and starchy and you'll have it. I am happy to say that although the kastom village cuisine we encountered wasn't all extremely delicious (except for the Su Sut (squash with ginger and coconut milk) and the Lap Lap (crushed yams, taro or manioc steamed in leaves), oh, and the Naura (crayfish) which I was too ill to eat on that particular morning) it was all edible.

So you may be wondering about the naked ladies. If you don't mind, I'll stop here for awhile and download a few pics. How about Part II tomorrow? Same time? Same place?

Worms, Cool Baby and Eli Creek on Fraser.

2008-06-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

More Fraser Pics

2008-06-26T00:27:00.000-07:00

FRASER ISLAND IN WRITING

2008-06-24T02:26:00.000-07:00

Combine the spirit of adventure with a dose of ignorance and what do you get? Three adults, 2 teens and a 15 month old baby humming three hours down the road towards a 4 x 4 beach camping weekend at Fraser Island. Once you're on board the Inskip barge it's only 15 minutes to Hook Point. They almost stop to let you off!

There's a very teensy window of opportunity for accessing this spot on the beach for the return trip. We should have paid a little more attention to that. It wouldn't occur to us till much later, in fact, too late. But, no worries, we were on our way up the Eastern Beach. It was 75 miles of straight sand and shore line. All we had to do was find our camp site, unload, set up tents and a kitchen and "Wa la!", play time!

After two hours of getting stuck, "Are we there yet?", singing songs to our cranky baby, picking a spot on the map only to find it's "not quite right", nearly getting lost on and inland road, wondering if we had lost Baby and Mom when they wandered off for a gander of the Champagne Pools while Bart and I used the lovely outhouses, eating ham sandwiches and all the apples and oranges Liz prepared and packed we did choose and plant ourselves in a wonderful spot near the turn off for Ocean Lake.

That's when the real work began. Bart had to go back for water so that left me and the boys who, as lovely as they are, aren't the most industrious duo in town, to set up camp. Riley was practically running the engineering of the tent for about 4 whole minutes then quickly lost interest. Jeremy, well, he has perfected the craft of avoiding work so I don't even remember what he was supposed to do or why he didn't do it. Past experience would tell me he was testing out the closest dune on his boogie board. If you're a camper you already know we were in trouble with one person trying to put it all together and an evening meal lurking right around the corner.

I always forget that it's dark in the blink of an eye when you're out camping. The minute you notice the sun going down, it's over. So of course, it's dinner prep under the light of our decidedly wimpy lantern. It takes a certain mindset to feed people when you have no table or cupboards or drawers or refrigerator or sink of any kind, one that, sadly, I was not in. Let's just say it was a bit of a grump that pulled that meal off. Not my proudest moment, but I must say that I got a lot more help the next day!

After all that whinging (aussie for whining) you might think that I didn't notice the gorgeous full moon that made the weak light of the lantern much more tolerable, the silver glow of the curling wave tops on the ocean, the cool sea breeze, the bird's talk out in the woods, the baby's laugh as the boys tickled and teased him, the suspense of possible dingo's in camp or my sister's quiet voice calming her little one in the night. It's a special place and no amount of inconvenience, travel stress, ill preparation or bad mood could ruin a camping trip with my family on the world's largest sand island.

You may be wondering about that oversight that I foreshadowed earlier. Yup, we missed the ferry. The trip to the largest perched (meaning above ground water) lake called Boojerim set us back a good hour, just enough to make the point impassable because of high tide. It meant a last minute new camp selection and set up by headlights. Somehow we scraped together leftovers and some cans of soup for dinner in mugs that we washed (never leave your dirty dishes for later!!) with 1/2 C of hot water. Everyone worked together this time and it went quick and easy. If not for the dew that soaked every single thing we left out and the surprise and very secret visit by the dingos it would hardly have been worth mentioning! Oh and the fact that Bart HAD to make a conference call the next morning.

I hope you enjoy the pictures up above. They should be pretty self explanatory. Since I haven't chosen them yet I can't exactly explain them all to you. I do know there will be one of large worms. They are elusive and practically impossible to catch so we were pretty proud of Bart who mastered the technique and Riley who spent hours on his knees in the surf to make his first big worm pull!

Well, it's back to the dishes, getting the boys to bed (yup, they still like the "process" of it even if it is just family prayer, a bit of a chat, a hug and a kiss and turning their fans on) and winding down myself.

I love the exercise of blogging. It's good for me to spend the time giving literary life to the experiences of my life. This is me thanking you for reading it. If you didn't I wouldn't.

That was funny. Bart and me and baby (Let poor Liz get some sleep after a very long cold night holding him in the car) edging onto the beach at high tide desparate to get up the shore to where there might be a pay phone. Amazingly we did find a phone. Bartman had the exhilirating experience of a phone call to the main office in the states on a public telephone in the middle of nowhere. He would talk for 10 second and the ZZZZZZZZZZZ the line would go dead, out of money. Basically he had to pop change in every few seconds to keep the conversation going. All to find out that the conference call had been changed to another day!! Ha! The best part was realizing that the bakery was getting an early start on the day. She agreed to serve us so we returned to camp as heros with our call accomplished and bearing goodies of muffing, eclairs, and toasted ham/cheese croissants. Mmmmm. Nice.

Mommy Moment

2008-06-13T06:03:00.000-07:00

Hey again. Yeah, I recovered from my one whole day of babysitting darling, dimpled, diaper man. We all survived. Liz was anxious to be back to her little one. He was thrilled to find her in her bed where she belonged this morning and I was relieved to be able to hand the reins back to my gorgeous sister. Watching her mother her sweet toddler through his breakfast and morning mischiefs I felt overwhelmed with love for this amazing woman. She possesses a remarkable strength for it. She is physically strong, easily lugging his 30 + pounds all over the place. Her spirit is strong. She loves enthusiastically with kisses and smiles and hugs. Somehow she knows all the tricks for appeasing his demanding personality without spoiling him rotten. It leaves me wondering what sort of mother I was. Was I cheerful? Did my boys have the slightest idea how much I love them? Oh well, it's never too late. I can't hardly lift them a centimeter off the floor these days. They would just as soon spend the night away from me with a friend much less cry "Mama" when they think of me and realize I am not there. Most of the time I get the rolling eyes if I want to "talk" about anything too serious. But...every night they want me to tuck them in and kiss them. I still feel that tender, eternal connection that a mother has for her child and I know that their young souls need that. I hope they always will. I know I will.

As a finale note, can I confess that at long last, after nearly 10 years, I am grateful I don't have a uterus.

Whew!

2008-06-11T20:16:00.000-07:00

He's in bed. Sound asleep as far as I can tell.

Will someone please tell me how anyone survives small children? How do you clean your teeth, make meals, keep up with laundry, fulfill church callings, have friends, read the sriptures, grocery shop, make your bed, work outside the home, volunteer in the schools and community, sleep and keep your marraige alive through the hours and hours that demanding little ones are awake?!! In the last couple of hours I have managed to feed him, put the dishes away, feed him some more, do (or should I say, help baby do) sommersaults, follow him around the porch while he pulled rocks out of the owner's potted plants, play with him in an empty tub, help him play in the kitchen sink, get him a drink or two, feed him some more, change his diaper, change his clothes, read him a story, sing him songs, put warm pants on him for his nap, put him in his crib, take him out into the kitchen to see if he needs a drink (nope, just wanted out) and finally settle him (or should I say quietly leave him screaming) in his little bed for a nap. Whew! Just about 8 more hours till Mama gets home, but who's counting?!!

Been Busy!!

2008-05-31T21:54:00.000-07:00

It's been a wonderful time entertaining my sister Liz and her little Bennett. We have been to the Ginger Factory for a rainy day of treats, train ride and a short themed boat ride. Then we made it out to Wellington Point just in time for an unbelieveable gorgeous sky. Afterwards we went out for a real Aussie Burger (just throw on a slice of beetroot, an egg, and a big piece of middle rasher(bacon). There was a lovely morning of park time where Liz and Bennett battled with sticks and rode the swing. Our life is better than ever, filled with the joy of baby talk and raisens and sippy cups.

I'm Getting Old

2008-05-08T18:27:00.000-07:00

I notice my jowels (sp?) now. They're beginning to sag, just like Grandma Hooten's did. She was a beautiful woman but she did have heavy, baggy cheeks. I love her. I don't like my stage 2 jowels. My mom doesn't have them, by the way. Don't ask me why I get them.

Gray hair is popping out of my head in very obvious places. My little sister, Liz, used to pick them out "back in the day", just 10 years ago. She would rummage around, find one and "plunk," it was out. We would laugh, examine it and toss it aside. Just a novelty, a silly distraction, sisterly bonding. No big deal. Now they're invasive. I can see them clearly in recent pictures of me.

My mother in law bought me a magnified mirror. It's beautiful. She has one and I had never considered asking for one like it, until last year. I found myself borrowing hers to hunt down and remove the unlady like black hairs growing from my chin. That mirror is incredible for that but it's been alarming to see my skin up that close. I won't go into detail. It's just too, well, yucky. (I am trying to stay in denial as to the aging of my skin at this point).

There's more. Today I realized that I am pushing pills on my husband. I give him one for his prostate (why take a chance?!), a multi-vitamin (the best I could buy), 2 vitamin C, and one called Gastro Health. That one's tricky because you have to take it 30 min before you eat. The vitamin is supposed to be taken with a meal. Most of the time I can get most of it into him. Today he reminded me that he's only humoring me. I teased, "I gotta take good care of my man!" As I walked back upstairs with his empty pill cup I knew my age.

I know it. I embrace it. It's what I've wanted all along and I am getting it!! Yeah!!!!

Worth the Wait

2008-05-08T18:13:00.001-07:00

Straddy Sunrise

2008-05-08T17:51:00.000-07:00

Monday, pre-dawn, I walked out to the beach in the dark and sat up on the dune overlooking a huge ocean overhung by an enormous sky.

At first, it was stars and the sound of waves rushing and the invigorating, cool breeze off the water. I wondered if I should go back for a jacket but surrendered the notion completely as the scene began to change.

I began to sense motion in the black sea. Light appeared in the horizon. Clouds took on color and form. Moment by moment our gigantic, rising sun brought me, as it does quite simply every day, a beautiful new morning.

I walked down the beach overwhelmed to be alone with all of that beauty. I thought about life, (I do that a lot. Comes with the gray hair!)) how light changes the way we see things. The more light became available the more glorious my setting became. Absolutely nothing was needed other than that availability of life giving sunshine to transfom my entire world.

And then there was nothing. Quiet nothing time. Almost boring really. Without a hand to hold or an arm to snuggle me the grandeur of it waned. I turned back, picked up my pace (and a black shoe, a child's sandal, and a plastic bottle) and went back to my family.

Stradbroke Island

2008-05-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

Finally! Our first trip to Stradbroke Island for a camping trip. The long weekend was the perfect oppotunity to take advantage of the close proximity of this bit of heaven on earth. It's the only reason we own an SUV and after our first dose of beaching it, it's unanimous. Good choice!!

As you can see we are way over packed. Next time we'll leave the crab pot home and maybe even the fishing poles. The only one that caught anything was Bart and that was with his spear gun. What did we leave behind? Chocolate!! We'll definitely need more of that! One little bag of chocolate aniseed rings didn't last long.

I'll post more pictures later. Right now DH is talking about our future with present employer. His 6th boss just quit. I should at least look interested! Hee, hee

Sad Day

2008-04-26T02:29:00.000-07:00

I wonder if it would be o.k. to ask for some faith and prayer on behalf of my Aunt R. Her ex husand was killed by a great white shark in Solana Beach while out for a training swim about 20 hours ago. His name is Dave Martin. She is devastated and so are the kids of course. It's a very complicated and painful time. I wish I was there to help with anything they would let me do. They don't even know how much I love them.

Miraculously my mom was in the area and able to get quickly to her sister shortly after she heard the news and realized who it was. That meant a lot to her to be able to spend time with my aunt and the kids. My mom loves her sisters so much. In fact, my parents are in the process of moving to Alpine, Ca. which is only an hour from Solana Beach. I am sure that the weightiness of this loss will not be quickly lifted. I am so glad that she will be there as a sweet support.

Dave was a very gentle man. I remember him at the Christmas eve parties with their little children, patiently waiting on them. He always had a smile on his face and I liked him. He was a very handsome, lean man who exuded calm. One time he brought his two sons from his first marriage to our family party. They were handsome and fun and we all enjoyed them so much and then we never saw them again. Now they're grown with little children of their own. I understand that their dad adored them all. Uncle Dave was kind to our family. If we ever had a need with one of our pets we called him. He always helped.

My aunt is a gorgeous woman of strength with a quick wit, a bright mind, and a soft heart and an amazing smile. The past few years following the divorce have been hard in just about every way possible. This is rocking her world. Especially as she watches her children suffer the unbearable pain of losing their father. I believe these children are remarkably strong, each in unique ways, different from eachother's. They will survive. My prayer is that they will have what they need to show them the way as they tunnel through this dark time to the other side, where there is peace.

Thanks for your time and faith and love. I know you'll make a difference.

Click on Liz and Trevor under Blogging Buddies for her thoughts.

Madi's Daddy

2008-04-25T06:34:00.001-07:00

Anyone who read the post about Madi will remember her story. She's the precocious, precious 3 year old that touched my soul at a certain dinner at my mom and dad's house in Joshua Tree.

You can read about it in the post "The Gem I Almost Forgot".

For all who might have interest, you should know that Madi's daddy returned home last week safe and sound. My mom was thrilled to be invited to the homecoming. I asked how Madi had handled seeing her dad after such a long time. Seven months is a long time for a 3 year old.

"She was squeeling with delight!" she said. According to Mom it was a beautiful reunion and a joy to behold.

So I am guessing it doesn't get much better than that.

Welcome home Luke! We are so grateful for your service and sacrifice. Our prayers will continue to be with you as you shift back into US life.

Much love from all who have read her post and been taught by the love of a little girl for her daddy.

Kelli the Koala

2008-04-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

Poor little thing up in the tree. You'll have to click on the picture to hunt for her in that mass of trees. She has cystitis, it's similar to a urinary tract infection. It can turn into clamydia (sp) and as you can imagine, not a good thing for the koala population.

So my good friend Liz, who, by the way, does not remotely resemble an animal rescue girl, was on call with the Animal Rescue Ambulance parked in front of her house when she got notice of this little gal with a "dirty bum". Long story short, Jeremy and I went.

It was dark and thank goodness the man who spotted her showed up to point the way. We walked through grass over our shoulders, climbed trees, finagled nets on the ends of long poles, tried to knock her into a big net, and finally pulled a thin tree down to the ground, grabbed her by the back just like a baby and plopped her (still gnawing away at what would have been a huge chunk of my hand minus the thick leather glove) into a cage that Jeremy manuevered excellently into place at just the right moment.

She was definitely not happy about a single bit of it. For something so adorable they can make the most terrifying sounds! Fortunately Liz is a great teacher. Very calm and good at making order out of chaos. She was the one who said, "Just slide the glove off and let her have it in the cage." Otherwize I am sure I would have tried to pull my whole arm out othe cage with koala attached and climbing up my neck!

We toted her back to the ambulance and off to Liz's house where she spent a quiet night waiting for the guys from Steve Erwin's zoo to come pick her up and take her to the vet. She'll be treated, tagged and then released back to the spot where we first found her. Her name? Kelli.

Bad Weather

2008-04-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to complain a little bit. I am sure you'll all feel quite sorry for me.

It's raining. It's been raining all day. The wind is blowing. In fact, it almost, practically qualifies as bad weather. And it's not the first we've experienced. There's been at least a handful of days that have been a bit gloomy. Not Australia like at all if you ask me.

If anyone could give me a little advice on how to handle it, you know, make it through the nasty weather blues, I would really appreciate it.

We may not even be able to swim this afternoon. If that ole sun doesn't come out we may be forced to stay inside for the entire day!

I knew you would all appreciate my suffering! He, ha, hoo, eeee!!!

Seriously, though, it's really bad. (chuckle, chuckle)

Delightful Day Pics

2008-04-16T02:31:00.000-07:00

In the harbor.

Five men on a dingy. Aren't they cute?

Sun setting.
Sweet D and Big T.

Dear hubby's turn to steer. With a little help.

Delightful!!

2008-04-16T01:49:00.000-07:00

I have never been sailing in all my days. Well, if you don't count the short hobycat ride with hubby at the helm that is. ( I loved it Hon but you have to admit that the constant jumping from one side to the other in an effort to keep from capsizing was a bit distracting. You are my number one captain!) So, when our lovely friends invited us for a day out on the water we jumped at the chance.

It was heaven. It was peaceful and quiet. The weather was perfect. The new friends were an easy lot to hang with; anyone would love them. (by the way, can anyone tell me if that's an appropriate use of a semi-colon?) Funny, great stories and willing to climb the Big Sandhills (Yes, there was an actual sign at the bottom of, well, 2 big sandhills that said just that.) for the view at the top. Hopefully I'll get some pics from T so you can see what we all accomplished and why it was competely worth it.

From the pics you'll see that the boat was a real beauty. She is a source of true joy for big T. (He is the one with the beard and little T is his son. We'll call cute wife friend, Sweet D.) For at least 5 months of the year she, the boat, a 42 foot, 10 ton cruiser/racer, is consistently his companion for the weekends. They race, sometimes up to 40 hours a go. That's like a marathon. Sweet D says it didn't bother her a bit to take on a second wife. She keeps him relaxed and healthy and gets him out of the way, hee hee. O.K. she didn't say exactly those words but she is remarkably easy going about Big T's boat obsession. Little T knows his way around the ropes but prefers the kind that take you up a very large rock!!

I think we all agreed that it was a special day. One of the highlights was the sting ray show! When we went ashore we passed ray after ray resting on the ocean floor. Most would explode up and out of the sand in a huge hurry to disappear but occasionally one would remain dug in while we passed just a foot or two above him. I loved watching them swim under the dingy. They were beautiful. Seriously, it was a wonderful experience.

So thank you to our thoughtful friends for taking the time for and thinking to invite us along for the ride of a lifetime!

New friends and vacation

2008-04-11T21:48:00.000-07:00

We had the delightful experience of hosting a family that my parents met a few years ago while living in Colorado. Elizabeth, the mom, and I hit if off right away. The kids slowly relaxed into the new environment as we surfed, wake boarded, swam, shopped, ate, rode horse back and explored our way through as much of southern Queensland as possible.

The weather wasn't wonderful. Not everything went perfectly. Jerett, for instance, hated the horse show night. Izzy didn't exactly love the afternoon spent with 7 boys back at the house while her mom and I went to the temple. Tate wasn't loving the rashes a fella can get from surfboards and the ocean water. Mom, Elizabeth had her first date since her divorce. It didn't go quite the way we had all excitedly expected.

But all in all, it was a wonderful time of new adventures and new friendship. One I hope that will be repeated (minus the horse show, Jarett!) again in the not too distant future.

So now what do I do? I have had house full for 10 days and now, nothing.

Guess it's time to do the floors, catch up and laundry, sweep the porches and make dinner for...(boo hoo) 4.

IT'S A LOOK!

2008-03-31T21:20:00.000-07:00

We finally got most of our uniforms. They are missing hats and the socks. Who knew they had a fire at the sock maker's factory? Oh well, they are happy to wait. The last picture shows friends in full uniform. It's from a different school but almost exactly what my boys complete look should be. Can you believe that 14 year old boys willingly dress like this? They iron their own shirts, too. I'm loving that idea!

Kimberly College is turning out to be a very good experience for the boys. The jury is still out on their performance compared to their USA peers. Only moving back will tell us. All I know is the teachers seem very capable, R and J are so happy to be there, and they are learning.

They are expected to write 200 words or more a night as well as the 20 min read. It's been amazing to see how weak the boy's writing skills are. R's teacher sat down for a 45 min. one on one to explain brainstorming and organizing your thoughts. I think she even called it a thought map? While the other kids will continue turning in daily writing he will do his in steps until he has learned the skills he needs. I loved that. I might add that he loves writing and has eagerly attacked all of his assignments. They're finishing up the term this week with a debate on movie censorship, a forum on celeberities and their contributions, and a mock trial. Not to mention that Wed night we go to their Animaniacs night to watch the kid's animations.

Jeremy is among the youngest so he gets a little special treatment as well. At parent teacher conference one of his teacher's explained that she hadn't been able to read his papers. That's why he has to type everything. Now if we can just get him to capitalize and puctuate. Wow. Now that they've been here awhile I have asked the teacher to help make sure he gets a book from the library (we brought hardly any with us) and continues to work on literacy. Math (they say "mets") is of supreme importance to Bart so between the two of us and this neat school we may just see the day R and J graduate from high school knowing how to read, write and do a bit of "rithmitic".

It's hard to feel like you know what's going on academically with your kids. At least for me, I often worry that they won't be prepared for college. I wonder how stiff the competition will be at that point? We'll see. Will they even have the desire to go? I can say that Kimberly College is the first school where I have seen my kids enjoying their learning. That's got to be worth something as well!!

The Flat Tire Blessing

2008-03-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

I finally talk myself out to the bike around 9 am. Within minutes I make a very bad decision. Can you believe that I actually looked down, realized I'd left my patch kit and pump at the house and decided to continue the ride regardless? It would have taken me about 5 minutes to go back and grab all of that. And that I rode hard for 15 minutes up and down hills away from my house, miles from a phone or gas station without a mobile phone or money or anything buy my water bottle? Well, why not? I mean, I had never had a flat tire before.

Bart always gets those. His tire goes pffffffffft! We stop. I watch him only because I feel I should. Maybe I'll remember his procedure. He loosens the bolt, releases the brake, pulls the tire off, rips out the tube (usually dripping sweat everywhere by now). Next he spits on it looking for little air bubbles fizzing indicating the hole. He grabs a little abrasive disk and rubs like crazy then carefully applies the adhesive followed by a little perfectly round patch of rubber which he patiently smoothes and pats. The edges have to be flat. Finally he puts the whole thing back together again. Kelli happily watches as he pumps up the tire then pops the cap back on the metal stem. "Good Job Honey!" I say. Usually I have felt quite grateful for the rest.

Well sisters (and the odd brother or two who may have logged on by accident!) it ain't the same when it's you, alone, out on the hightway! It's not restful or interesting. It's stupid. Especially when you're missing all of the ingredients required for a successful repair. If I'd had that I would have just looked, you know, cool. The girl on the side of the road in the hot sun, independent, resourceful, capable.

Instead, I find myself feeling remarkably ashamed as I walk, pushing my beautiful bike, in my stocking feet down the long road home. Bike shoes are impossible for walking. Those bike shorts are no treat either. They are great for bike comfort but not a cute or comfortable thing for those of us with a more generous thigh. Feels like you're wearing a loaded diaper, too, that's not cool, ever.

Honestly, I nearly cried. I wanted to but I kept the faith and continued on my journey. "Should I flag someone down? Will someone just stop for me? I am so dang embarrassed. Prayer. Prayer. Bart, come and get me. Bart. Bart. Bart. You're wife is is trouble come get her. Prayer. Prayer. Prayer. (Might as well talk to someone that can hear me) Geez, Kelli, why don't you stop at that house back in the trees? I am way too embarrassed. Just keep walking. It shouldn't take more than ....well, than .... hmmm, oh my goodness, an hour and a half!! Ohh, it's hot. Why isn't anyone stopping?! What's the matter with you people? That guy had a truck and everything. C'mon people. You think I am just out here for joy walk?!! You guys are sooo stupid!!"

"Hey, here comes a biker!" "What, no cell phone either?" "No worries, it's not far." "Yeah, thanks for stopping anyway." "Have a great ride."

At that point I knew from that little act of kindness from someone who knew exactly what I was going through that this problem would solve itself. Two minutes later a lovely lady by the name of Claire stopped, asked me where I lived and then offered to take me home. The bike slid smoothly into the back of her SUV. We chatted for the short ride to the house. She is from the Mauritius Islands and, you guessed it, she's a biker. Hopefully I'll run into her again when I start riding with the women's bike club.

So, a fellow biker saves the day. She knew exactly what was going on with me because of her own personal experiences. Truly living a life opens us up in so many ways. Could it be that the sweetest part is that we recognize better when someone needs our help. And we are prepared and willing, even desiring to give it. I can't wait for my next chance to serve. I hope I have the eyes to see the need and am in the position to offer it quickly and willingly.

There you go.

Biker Babe

2008-03-15T02:48:00.000-07:00

Well, not exactly. It's not as edgy and cool as that. Think more along the lines of spandex shorts that hit right at the meatiest part of a lady's thigh, dorky red bike helmet, borrowed bike gloves, neon yellow shirt and a pair of bright white, $5 sunglasses. It ain't purdy, but I am over that by now.

Riding out of the garage and down the hill is a breeze. Then it's left at the first turn and on up the hill to the main road that takes us along the coast. Most of the time, we go south towards the boy's school. Bumpy but at least it's a downhill start. With our bikes and teeth rattling we buzz through the round about, weeeee. Fun's over. Let the hills begin.

On school mornings, when we're racing the boys to class in the bright blue car ( I call it my Hot Wheels car) the road stretches out like a roller coaster. It's a whoopdeedoo road. On a bike it's a brutal tease of up and down. You get the sweet downhill for a moment or two before you're back to it, powering up the hill one section at a time.

I have learned to switch gears quickly, though I couldn't tell you what they're called. Adjust the black button on the right handle bar on the way down. Use the silver hooky bob on the front of the same handle bar for the uphills. The concept is reversed on the opposite handle. For a real monster uphill I will push the black button on no occasion the silver hooky bob because that's for very fast descent and I am afraid I'll press too hard and topple head over heels at top speed. No thanks.

It's a dirty business. I sweat and strain. My legs burn. Sunscreen melts into my eyes and makes me cry. But, just lately, I have begun to attack the hill just as I near the top by standing in the pedals and using my arms to pull and my body weight to press for each downward pedal stroke. I feel very strong and intimidating when I do that. (Roooaaar!)

Mostly I ride with my biker dude partner, Bart, also my husband. Usually I follow him. He's a leader and knows where he wants to go, plus he's stronger and creates a draft for me. That means if I ride close behind him, there's a pull. We're like magnets. It's amazing how in that position I can coast along while he does most of the work. I really like that. What I don't like is feeling like he has to wait for me.

It happened this morning. We were returning from a ride out to have breakfast at the bay. He was up there going full steam into a head wind and up a hill, probably thinking that I would be hot on his heels. I wasn't. My ego wouldn't allow it for long. I waved him on, shouting up to him "Go ahead, I know the way home." He wasn't having that. "We're fine at this pace. It's all the same distance." I struggled to keep from insisting. Back in his draft my legs got a rest and soon we were battling up the last hill with me only 10 feet back. It was a nice finish to a long ride. Ego's really aren't in our best interest, are they.

To be honest, I have only been out twice by myself. It's good to go alone as well, but I'll always opt for my partner given the choice.

A few things I have learned from biking:

1. Don't forget your water. Drink it.

2. Make sure and unclip one foot from your pedal at a stoplight. Make that ANYTIME you stop.

3. Hills are never as bad as they seem. Sometimes they're worse.

4. Don't go out of the bike lane without checking first. Remember the big trucks.

5. Be confident. It's just a bike.

6. Adjust your gears for the work you're doing.

7. Keep good form. Heels down. Push and pull.

8. You'll be more surprised at how strong you are than how weak you are.

9. Be a good follower. Don't criticize. Definitely tuck into that draft, baby!

10. When it's your turn to lead, enjoy the front!

There's more but let's save it for later. Every ride teaches me something new.

The Gem I Almost Forgot

2008-03-14T06:42:00.000-07:00

It amazes me that I could put off posting this experience. Sometimes a child can change your perspective with a simple phrase.

We had just sat down to a dinner at my parent's house in Joshua Tree, Ca. Seated at the corner next to Dad's left elbow was our guest, a busy, 3 year old, little girl, Madi. Her mom was at a church meeting and her dad is in Iraq. She seemed quite at home and I know my parents have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know their sweet family, happy to be a support in any way they can, probably even more so because of Dad's service in the Airforce.

From the minute she walked in the door, I noticed that she had my mom hopping to keep up with her. Into the candy, needing to go potty, looking for toys. I am afraid I hadn't taken the time, yet, to get to know her as I was distracted by my little nephew. I was totally unprepared for what this small being would soon teach me.

She was quiet as my dad began to offer a prayer over the meal. Then we heard a little mumble from her. Most of us, at that point, assumed she was mimicking my dad's words. You know how little kids sometimes try to pray at the same time as the adult? We listened more closely. "Please," she spoke up this time. "Please pray for my daddy." It was a matter of fact, simple request. Dad stopped mid sentence, then, began to pray specifically and at length for Luke, Madi's daddy.

In an instant it was more than prayer, more than one little girl, more than just Luke.

She was, in my mind and heart, representing each little child who's parent is gone overseas, serving in the military, to do the job they committed to do. They see it simply. Please keep my Dad/Mom safe. And why shouldn't they expect each of us to keep them in our prayers as well?

Thank you Madi. I will. Promise.

THE BOTTOM LINE

2008-03-12T19:34:00.001-07:00

It's true. Those were his exact words. (A little giggle is at this very moment on the verge of bubbling up and out. ) My normally bright husband said, "The bottom line is, we are getting another car." This, after some discussion where I argued against and he for the purchase of a second vehicle. I won't bother to defend the point here. Let's just leave it that we were in disagreement. Doy.

Don't we all disagree from time to time with our spouses? What do you do with those "bottom line" statements?

By the way, I am reminded of another "bottom line" statement having to do with paying for the house in Va to be power washed. Let's see, I believe that time it was more like, "I absolutely am not paying money to have the house power washed!" (Again, this is an incredibly intelligent man) I feel for him. I mean who wants to eat that kind of cow poo poo later on? How does one feel knowing that his "final word" is just hot air dissipating into outer space? Of course the house needed it and of course "he" was going to pay for it. And did. To the tune of $400. Ouch.

Shame on me. I am, mercilessly, enjoying myself at the expense of my most favorite person in the whole world. To our credit, it was all over with a sweet reminder that his undies were in the proverbial bundle and, "Honey, don't forget the last time you laid down the law!" Hee, hee, haaaa, hooooeeeee, ooo. Yes, I was laughing hysterically as I recounted the whole power washing incident while he covered his ears and in a loud voice said, "I'm not listening, I'm not listening."

The bottom line is, we work it out. Doy.

O.K. on with the latest and greatest highlights. We had a great weekend recently with our good friends the E. family. It was our privilege to host them here at the house. Finally, little people's fingerprints on my sliding glass doors! We swam and ate and talked. It was wonderful to have them with us. Little J. and Big M. are 5 and 3 respectively, just two years apart just like our big boys who are now 13 and 11. It's fun to see some similarities in the dynamics of brothers. I always find myself reminiscing on that time when my guys were small much more when J and M are here.

Amazingly Kevin and Julie left the kids with us for an evening on Saturday. Even though they know us pretty well by now they still trust us! Hee, hee. Putting the boys to bed was a hoot. First we had to have dinner, then a bath, then pajamas, warm milk, a story and then, finally, sleep. Dinner was quick and easy. Bath was a breeze. They even looked a little sleepy. I had high hopes there for a minute. Maybe this was going to be completely different than my experience putting boys to bed when mine were young? The warm milk was the hitch. "Nope" "I don't want it" No problem, I thought, by the time we're done with the story and snuggled into bed, they'll be goners. Nope. We had several stories. We had songs. We talked. No sleeping. I rehearsed the game plan. What was missing? Oh yea, the milk. We went back up for another go. This time the milk went over well. I mixed warm milk with vanilla and a little sugar. Mmmm. They wolfed it down and off we went to sleep, I hoped. They got into their bed (actually a thin queen mat with sheets and a blanket). Big brother, Little J, right to sleep. Big M, who is actually little brother was having nothing to do with it. He wanted more of that yummy milk (now we know why he's built like a professional rugby player!) That little guy sat up in bed with his head nodding slightly forward then to the right than backwards always just catching it to sit up straight, then starting with the nodding again. He lasted about 10 minutes and then finally, at long last, kerplunk! It took all the mothering left in my bones to get through it! Actually, I found myself crying real tears for the loss of all the hours of mothering my own little ones, just that way, that I expected to have. That hurt usually lies dormant so I am glad to have had a chance to spend time with those sweet "little -ies" and heal a little in the meantime.

My big boys, if you wanna know, were awesome with those two kiddos.

Australia, is turning out to be an adventure in more than just travel, pools, beaches, koalas and kangaroos. It's relationships that bless. Each time has it's purpose for changing and growing us, preparing us for experiences that are around the corner.

By the way, just so Mom P knows, although I have been a little irreverent here, I make sure that your very intelligent, bright son with the great "bottom liners" always gets his vitamins and a great meal these days. I would rather no other man be giving me ultimatums than him!

Random pics

2008-03-02T02:28:00.000-08:00

Thought you might like to see the tank system for the house. All the rain water collects off the roof. This is the water you use to fill the pool, water you plants, clean your brick and pavement, etc. They have had serious drought conditions in the area, such that, this past weekend, because of recent heavy rain, people washed their cars with a hose for the first time since 2006. Odd # houses on Sat. from 4 - 5 p m and evens on Sunday at that same hour. It was a huge front page deal!

Maria asked for pic of house and pool This is the upstairs dining with master and kitchen/living. There's a great porch off to the side of dining that master shares. Great for pool/bird watching.

I thought this sign warning cars to be on the watch for the aged was hilarious. Do you think the parents would mind something like this for Christmas?

Last of all, my little bird in a tree up at the Bunya Mountains. It was such a cool morning with the mist and then the little orange berries caught my eye. The bird was an extra treat!

Marco Polo Pros

2008-03-02T01:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Yous-

First of all, to any and all who might not know, there is a little word at the bottom of each blog post that says, "comments". If you click on that you can send me a little message (hint, hint Moms). It just occurred to me that some of my dear non-blogging family and friends may never have noticed that, especially since it took me awhile to figure it out myself. Yes, that's even writing on my own blog. I am a little slow but if you give me some time and tell me straight out, I'll get it!

Believe me, us bloggers live for our comments!

Let's jump into the next section of this blog for the night. My boys, including my husband, have turned out to be champion Marco Polo players. Who knew? Several weeks ago we all played and had a dandy time. I fared O.K. and got stuck with being "it" a few times. No big deal. I may have mentioned how I love listening to R and J with their dad in the pool while I am puttering around the house having a mommy moment. They'll play for over an hour and I have thought much of it until yesterday. Geez. I can hardly compete and if I'm "it", forget about it. Plan on Mom doing the Marco to their Polo for at least the next 20 minutes. The pool is not big, nor is it deep, not to mention that I'm a pretty good swimmer so what up?! They are all so good! Jeremy takes a big rock and his goggles and hunkers down in the deep end. Sometimes you'll cluelessly right next to him. He just stays still and you won't find out till you're no it. Riley stays on the move. He's always going and is quick. I am amazed how long he can hold his breath as well. Hubby is always taunting you with little splashes and close up "Polos" in a loud voice. I guess he's the resident master of the game because we each consider it a major plus if we tag him. Rarely happens!

But I have to say the highlight of my game yesterday had to be watching dear hubby be it. The rule is you have to start at the shallow end while everyone else collects in the deep end. Once we are all ready the "it" person starts off with, "Marco" and we answer, "Polo". Dear hubby's style is aggressive to say the least. After he psyches us out by asking us if we're scared. "You little guppies nervous? Are you scared?" he closes his eyes and begins. "Marco?" (sounds like a creep of a Stephen King movie) "Polo" (then we dive down) He hesitates as he listens for our voices then explodes in our direction at full speed. If he doesn't grab one of us he'll stop and thrash his feet out in a huge double straddle kick, reaching out with both arms at the same time then twist and reach over and over for a minute. No luck for the big fish. He goes again, "Marco?", "Polo" we answer quickly, waiting to see which direction he turns. "Marco?" Boom! He's after one of us, all of us if he can. He's fast and furious and like the agitator on a top loader washing machine. And I am laughing my head off. One time I was laughing so hard, and trying not to make a sound, that I couldn't move much less go under water. If he would have stuck one hand out he would have had me! The sight of him was just too much! So, I am in now. No more listening to the Marco Polo from the kitchen or computer. Mom's gotta get in the game before it's too late.

Tomorrow, serious Marco Polo training begins!

Pics Bunya Mts

2008-02-25T04:16:00.000-08:00

I hoped this would be a better pic of the view. It is mind boggling. Then you have Bartman going for the gusto, all the way to the top. Sorry Mom P, no way to stop him.

Of course I had to get the actual jump.

We were shocked to realize that gorgeous pink flower was a bloom on a Eucalyptus tree. We took a lot of pictures of this one little tree. Hope you love it.

There's Bart with a Bunya. Bunya Bart. Did we mention that they're big?

Bunya pics

2008-02-25T03:43:00.000-08:00

This is the Bunya tree. It is a monsterous pine that grows only in the Bunya mountains. Those three pine cones are filled with Bunya nuts! They are huge and tasty when baked.

The pink flowers were growing all along the side of the road. It's a grass that is abundandt because of all the recent rain. Fortunately we are enjoying a very green, lush time. On the last day this foot race happened as a result of what I don't know. Riley kept winning and Bart kept insisting on a rematch until finally they tied! Of course, now Bart can hardly walk for the pain in his hips. Sprinting is, well, painful even under the best of circumstances. I can assure you he was in no way in shape for all out sprinting with no warm up what so ever.

And can you see the little wallabies out for breakfast? They didn't give us a second look!

A few pics from The Bunya Mountain Trip

2008-02-25T00:55:00.001-08:00

Too much fun?

2008-02-24T19:31:00.000-08:00

Is it o.k to have too much fun? To have too many sweet friends? To see too many beautiful things? To have too much opportunity be inspired by the loveliness that life has to offer? To miss church in order to have one more day of the mountains? To miss early morning seminary in order to have one more hour of sleep? (o.k. I realize I am fuzzing the lines here!)

Life requires a certain ability to, shall we say, justify. Looks like I am managing very well wouldn't you say!

We have been off playing again. If it's just making you sick with envy sign off now, meanwhile, I'll do my best to throw something unfortunate into the mix of what must sound like a never ending vacation. Surely I mentioned my washer breaking down a couple of weeks ago? The mud all over the boys new white tennis shoes? The fall Jeremy took at the water falls? Lest I forget, this most recent excursion had a nice whack of stinging nettle in the calf region of my right leg that was most unpleasant. There was a spider the size of a full bloomed peony in the kitchen at the condo, along with an array of spider webs loaded with a nice variety of dead bugs hanging in the corners of every wall. The wallabies pooped on our sidewalk and we forgot the ice cream for the birthday cake. Oh, and the birthday candles, too. Riley and Jeremy had to do some babysitting for the two little ones and they got bored. Um, what else? We got lost going out to the swimming hole so we had to, horror of horrors, ask for directions. No one was home at the first two houses where we stopped. The roads are narrow out in the country and sometimes I sorta yelled at Bart to slow down. He didn't like that. The water at the swim hole was brown. Several people were smoking which is something you won't see in the pretty pictures. I gained weight and Bart pulled muscles. We all smelled like bugspray. We ran out of milk. Hmmm, maybe there's more, but that' about all the bummer stuff I can think of right now. I promise there's always more where that came from. It's just a matter of putting some real energy and focus into it. Looking for the negative takes practice, effort and time you know!

So, back to the good stuff. Bart works for/with a man named Kevin. Bart refers to him as his client/customer. That's how we are connected originally but I can truly say that now he, his sweet wife Julie, two little ones, Jonathon (5) and Michael (3), are our good friends. You either are or aren't going to be bonded after 4 days and 3 night together. We are. And you would be too. These are delightful people that know how to enjoy the simple goodness of life. They are gentle souls and have managed to blend the South African (him) and American (her) cultures in their 12 year marriage. Throw in Kenya, Malowi, Virginia (they were with Delta T at one point as well but left about 5 months before we came on board)Wisconsin (hated it), Florida and Brisbane and this last move to the Australian country side and you've got the recipe for some great stories! We enjoyed learning about them and getting to know them better. We all felt so much happier and relaxed after sharing time together as families in the beautiful Bunya Mountains.

We actually started at their home out in Dalby. They graciously hosted us overnight on Thurs. and then we all went up Friday to a great condo with 2 master rooms and a 3rd room with 2 sets of bunkbeds. It was a super arrangement for us. Julie had rolls and meats and cereals and milk and had also brought up her goods for her "tea time". She even brought me some Rooibus! The first day was feeding the birds, a hike to a scenic overlook and home for lunch. Unfortunately I left the camera home for our quick walk over to the local "Tea House" so there are no inside shots of the gift shop, balcony out to the trees or gorgeous food. The big boys tended the little boys for that one. (They would much rather that then sit in a restaurant of any kind, hee, hee) It was great to see and remember what happens when a man and a wife take that first step out of the house for a little free time. Ahhh, the relief was visible! They are amazing parents and the boys are at that age of requiring lots of physical attention, plus, Kevin is quick to inform us that at 47 he just doesn't have the strength to keep up all the time like he used to with his two older children from a previous marriage. We think he still does great after watching him ferry each of his children across the swimming hole and chase them around the rocks!

After lunch we were all HOT, HOT, HOT so we found out about this little swim hole about 40 minutes away from the lady that runs the place. The directions were a little sketchy and we did get lost but eventually joined a nice group of locals at this hidden swim hole. The water was so refreshing, thank goodness, and the big boys had a total blast jumping off the rocks on the other side. Despite being on high alert (Mom Packer would be so proud. I promise, I watched every jump to make sure they came back up!) for drownings and falls on the rocks I still enjoyed the time there so much. You felt privileged to be with all these "real" Australians enjoying their cooling off treat with them.

We hiked out of there and back for dinner which was, again, delicious. Our favorite has to be the Pickled Bunya Nut relish on brushetta. MMmmmm. Plus I had some Aubergine (eggplant) that was very yummy. Usually it's thin cut but this was thick and loaded with a cheese and tomato sauce. Of course now there's no money for this week's groceries but I don't think anyone will mind! He, he (Just kidding. We still had some old milk and Bart found a moldy piece of bread in the pantry. Hee, hee)

I think this was one of the most laid back outings we have had since we arrived. It was just enough time to let down your hair and stay awhile versus our customary drive and drive, arrive, eat, sleep, hike, get dirty, wash off, load up, drive home. Playing is sometimes harder than staying, if you know what I mean?

Highlights for me? Carrying little Johnathon (Johno) back up the trail and having him use his little baseball cap to brush hanging vines and foliage out of my face. Listening to Michael call for the turkeys, all of the eating (as ususal), witnessing Bart race Riley in a short sprint until he beat him (whew, that was a close one - thus the sore muscles), my run through the trees, chocolate cake for breakfast, seeing Jeremy let Michael drag him around by his pinky, having Riley take on Michael as his one and only responsibility for our lunch, the talk about religion (who knew Kevin is practically a preacher?), celebrating Julie's birthday, the flowers on the little Eucalyptus tree, breathtaking views, the Glass family that we met at the scenic overlook who's teenage son introduced our kiddos to all sorts of bugs he'd collected and then gave Johno the cup with a millipede, beetle, and a grub.

O.K. time to pick up the boys.

Do I really need a title?

2008-02-20T16:14:00.000-08:00

O.K. here we are on my Thursday morning which is your Wednesday late afternoon. Just think, I am finally one step ahead of even the most ambitious of my high achieving friends, ha ha! Even with that I am finding ways to dawdle away just enough time to leave myself in a bit of a need to hustle to "get it all done" today!

Bart will be on the curb at Brizzy (Another cute Australian shortcut for Brisbane) by 1pm meanwhile I have been up since 5 am for the run (making up for the dozen of the best chocolate chip cookies I ever shouldn't have eaten!) then off to seminary with R, home with 10 min to spare to wake up J (no working cell phone right now) who MUST be 100% ready to go by the time I'm back with R so we can pile in and off to school. Feels like I am driving for 3 hours by the time 9 am rolls around. I have a name for ride possibilities and prices for the bus. Can you believe they want $33/ week because it's not state funded, just a private company bussing the kids? Yikes. With Bart home I may just take R and stay to run around the neighborhood while Bart gets J ready for the day. In fact, if he travels again I might just give R the seminary lesson myself!!! Whew.

In spite of all that, my life still feels like a vacation, minus the maid. Part of my "work" today is packing for the next trip to the mountains. There are palm trees in my yard and a pool! What kind of a fantastic deal is that? I would have died for that all those years back my family lived in hot, hot El Cajon, California with NO AIRCONDITIONING! On my runs I am looking at the ocean with the sun just coming up and islands off in the distance. Everything is just different enough to be stimulating and interesting for now. I even answer the phone to telemarketers and enjoy the way they talk before I tell them, very nicely, no thank you.

And, to top it off, we have a great neighbor family across the cul de sac. They have done so much for us, ie. internet connection (he's and IT guy), turning us on to the school the boys attend, having us over for a bahbie (bar b q), sending their kids over to play, taking R and J to school AND giving them lunch money when I got stuck in traffic and couldn't make it back in time. If all they had done was be kind to Bart while we were away from him that long couple of weeks he was here at the house alone it would have been enough, but they have been 100% since day one. And they are the only ones. No one else has come over to introduce themselves or say hi or drop a goodie or anything.

So I wanted to say thank you, the only way know how, by taking cookies over. It's taken awhile but I finally got over last night. You would all love this woman. She reaches for me and kisses my cheek and says thank you over and over, asking me how I am doing, offering to do more. Heavenly Father always sends me the best of the best. You know who you are my friends and family. I love each of you so dearly. Thank you. Lee Anne reminded me of the gift you are.

Jeremy has a friend or two he's made at school. He's pretty proactive when it comes to the social scene. Morgan came over yesterday to swim and hang out in wet bathing suits on the couch hee, hee. When we picked him up he introduced us to his dog, AhhChee. I thought is sounded very vogue and odd for a freckle face Aussie boy. Then it hit me, "Duh, Archie. Not AhhChee." It catches you off guard just enough to make you feel a little silly.

But nothing makes me feel more conspicuously ridiculous than throwing my stuff in the car then going around to plop myself in the driver's side only to realize there's no steering wheel.

There's no cool way to recover from that one. Or the other one, when you flip the wipers on instead of the blinkers and the sun is shining high in the sky. Oooops. Oh and this one, when the person tells you their address and even though they are standing next to you spelling slowly for you you're writing down some strange word. It was Iron Bark but I could have sworn she said Iron Baik. Of course I had the same problem one morning when my cute neighbor with the southern accent instructed me to head on down "Ionbond". She was gone and I was eating dinner before I realized it was "Ironbound". I think I am losing my hearing.

Well, I hope you are all "going" well today. This is eating up lawnmowing, laundry hanging, packing time but before I go, CONGRATULATIONS TO MY 1 year old NEPHEW BENNETT WHO IS WALKING CIRCLES AROUND HIS FATHER in the latest video from home. Can you believe just weeks ago his mom was slightly wigged out that he wasn't crawling yet. Can't wait to get home and chase him and Duncan around! Can't wait!

More pics and crazy Monday.

2008-02-18T19:15:00.002-08:00

First pic, boys are looking for anything that might wiggle, crawl, or scoot through the rocks and tide pools.

The second pic is Jeremy getting ready to let Dad have it - back, that is. Bart started it.

Third, what it looked like on the little island to which the sandbar led.

Last, the kite boarding crew exploded into action on the way back. The day started with just 3. I counted nearly 20 in all by then.

Now, if you will, forgive the humdrum content of today. (It's for our moms, ya know how that goes!)

We got up early to get Bart off to the airport (My running buddies will be proud to know I was up at 5 for a nice run and then, inspired by my Maria, jumped in the pool). Unfortunately the traffic was thick. What should have taken 40 min. took close to two hours. Guess we learned our lesson the hard way. One of those little glitches.

We needed to call the very nice neighbors to see about a ride for our boys. She was darling about it so as long as they were able to find the lunch money all should be well with them at the moment. Happy to say Bart even made his flight! I told him so. I am a believer ever since the "10 minutes till take off and 13 pcs. of luggage" miracle (thank you Maria and Kristyn!!!!).

On the way home I found shopping nirvana. It's called the mall and it's in Capalaba. I already knew that but was iffy about directions. Needless to say I was thrilled when the very nice navigator lady on the little computer told me to turn right and I saw the mall. Poor Bart. Now I can get there all by myself. He, he.

The best part of the day so far was finally getting over to the little fruit store which is right next door to the butcher there in Vic. Point. My neighbor, Steve (or Stevo as they nickname here) recommended it right off. Boy was he right. The fruit is in great shape, much less expensive than the supermarkets and they had fenugreek (funky spice for some odd recipe I found on the net)! I had been looking everywhere for it. Plus they have my favorite yogurt. Mmm. Thick and rich and mango-ey. And the meat place was big and beautiful and clean. Everything was laid out nicely and the fish is easily accessible and up close on ice.

So now it's put all the stuff away. Clean and get ready to get the boys from school. Later we'll go to the skate park if the weather cooperates. We have had storm after storm after storm. I put the clothes out to dry yesterday but I keep forgetting to pull them off before the next rain hits!

Love you you,

Kelli

First pic from Wellington Point

2008-02-18T01:57:00.000-08:00

Hey, it worked! I'll do some more later. This one took FOREVER!

Way off in the distance you can see the island. It took about an hour for the tide to go out

completely. At this point it looked like people were walking on water out in the middle of the bay.

Last words for today, I promise!

2008-02-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

O.K., dinner was fabulous. I might have to put the recipe down here for ya!

I wanted to tell you about school. We have the kids in Kimberly College. The principal, Paul Thomas, quite a character might I add, has strong negative feelings about the word "alternative" but that's the best way to describe it. Very little is traditional. I have never seen anything like it though he claims he was inspired by educational programs from the states? The class sizes are larger with 2 - 3 teachers plus and aid. It saves moving from class to class thus saving time. Each group has multi-aged students. The reasoning? Children shouldn't be learning at grade level. They should be able to study at the appropriate level for them all the time. They do testing that helps gauge that. I am not sure how it works. He insists they learn creative, critical thinking. He wants them to know why and how to use what they are learning. No bullying, whatsoever, is allowed on campus. There is a strict uniform code with grey dress shorts, black belt with a custom Kimberly College button down dress shirt and tie. They wear black shoes with, get this, grey knee high socks! And a hat! Oh my gosh am I ever excited to see the day that all happens. Believe me there will be pictures! They are short on uniforms so it will be a couple of weeks...

The important thing at this point is that the boys seem very happy there. The other children have received them well. The teachers seem to be kind and funny if a little strict here and there. It's a beautiful area and once they are finished with all the building plans it should be an impressive looking school. It's not extremely expensive, except for the uniforms! We'll see. The jury is still out. Once we get out permanent visas they can go to the state school.

Hey, we also made it out to church this week. Last week we missed the time and the week before we went to a building that was under construction so we (Okay, it was actually just me) were really looking forward to meeting our new friends in the Capalaba ward. They were lovely of course. You could plop them right into the Jamestown Ward or Idaho Falls 19th but then they would all be taken into the heavens what with all their being too darn perfect! Hee, hee. Let's just say it was a relief to be well received and see that there are young people for Riley and Jeremy. Riley found out that he gets to start seminary. Hee, hee. The start them the year they turn 14 here. Let the early mornings begin!

But not tomorrow, Bart flies out early and we only have one car so guess who's his taxi driver? Yup, and aren't I lucky? You betcha! So the boys will be on their own for getting up and getting ready but I'll make it back just in time to get them to school. Thank goodness it's only for 2 days. We have gotten used to him being around now and we're not about to have that change without a fight!

In fact, they are in the pool playing Marco Polo as I write. It's cold and they want me to come out. Yikes!

Love to you,

Kelli

Albondigas Soup

one carton of beef broth

1 pound ground hamburger

1 - 2 slices bread, torn into small bits

1/2 onion, fine diced

3 large clove garlic, shredded

1 egg plus one egg white

1 - 2 T water

1 tsp chili pwdr (or less if it's hot)

1 tsp oregano

1 1/2 tsp cumin (I used a little more)

1 green pepper, diced

3 - 4 carrots (used 4 large), sliced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 can stewed tomatoes with juice ( I just dumped in a can of crushed tomatoes instead)

1/2 med cabbage, sliced

salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Serve with sour cream, cilantro, nachos.

Blend meat, garlic, onions, egg, water, bread for meatballs. Form into small, bite-size balls. Bring broth to a boil, add meatballs, cook 5 minutes. Add spices, veggies, including tomatoes, cover and simmer at least 30 minutes. Not more than 40.

Oh man was that good. The boys scarfed in down!

2008-02-10T20:27:00.000-08:00

The 3 wet amigos after the crazy jet boat ride through Circle Quay and Darling Harbor in Sydney. Dripping!

To All the Girls on the Go

2008-02-08T13:33:00.000-08:00

Well, I beat ya to the Sat morning run as usual since we're 17 or so hours ahead of you and boy was it a hot one. If you wait till 8am (wimps, hee, hee) to run in Redland Bay your asking to leave this world in a pool of your own sweat on the side of a road next to a dead wallaby. It's like running in a microwave oven switched on high.

So, you'll be proud of me! I was off by 6:17 am. I ran the whole way except for a short talk with a super cute retired couple out for a morning walk. It was slow and mostly miserable just like all of my runs without my running group girls and my amazing running/workout boss, friend Maria. But seriously, it does motivate me to know that all of you will be up and at'em Saturdays. I can picture you all chatting and beginning to breath a little harder as you start down the hill. Leah making up all sorts of lame excuses for why she'll be slow and then racing up the hill to sprint the finish. Kristyn will be running at whatever pace she likes for as long as she likes because as one GOG mentioned, according to her "It's all mental baby!" Anna and her long legs will be keeping stride with whomever is running fastest that day. It will look effortless but she'll claim to "really be feeling it". Ya, uhuh. So many are coming back after babies. (I LOVE MY "AFTER" PICTURE, BY THE WAY! JUST THINKING ABOUT IT MAKES ME SMILE) You are the most amazing of us all!

O.K. I am going to haul my sweaty, stinky self off to the pool. You guys stay warm. I wish I could blink you all here along with all my Idaho buddies and every lifetime friend for a gigantic slumber party with a swim and bar b q and trips to the beach and the city and whatever else you would like to do.

By the way, Leah, I guess being pregnant would be a legitimate reason to slow it down. But I swear if I find out your fibbing me on that 12 minute mile story, you're in grande troubl0!

Bit of a back track and a catch up on the day!

2008-02-08T03:40:00.000-08:00

I have uploaded a couple of pics from our first trip to a "real" beach. You know, one with waves. This took place a week and a half ago. It's on Stradbroke Island. Just hop on a ferry, take a bus to the other side of the island, hike a mile down to a gorgeous, completely empty beach. Realize that the beach is OFF LIMITS. Hike back up the hill and up another mile to the first open beach you find.

You are supposed to swim between the flags. We don't. Bart's idea. We lived. Had a wonderful time swimming in the perfect surf, playing frisbee and eating melted chocolate cookies. Mmmmm. And I didn't see one shark!

The trip home was a bit more of an adventure, waiting for an hour to be crammed on a bus with the other 100 people trying to catch the last ferry of the day. What did we expect on Aussie day? Not the Packer's most brilliant move but at least we'll have the Stradbroke Island Excursion all figured out for the rest of you. When you come. Hint, hint. We have decided the car is key, as well as an ice chest, blanket for sand, an umbrella for shade and a few chairs. Even better, bring the tent and stay the night. Ahhh.

Well back to the present. Today is counted as one of our more productive. We have a school that will take us. We finally received the money for the cars. We have actually come close to practically almost deciding on maybe which one we might possibly want. Wow! (I like the red one!) I was able to do 4 loads of stinky laundry at the laundromat. (Washer broke 5 days ago!) and ....hmmm, I guess that's it. Sounds boring but these are all biggies for us this week.

I can think of so many things to tell you all when I am out and about, but, funny, it all eludes me once I sit down to the big screen and keypad.

For now, just know how much I love and appreciate you. I live on your replies and chocolate at the moment. At some point it will be time to "get a life". In fact, I may be getting close to that tipping point now. You know you're getting desperate when you don't want to leave the family who's car you are considering buying because you can't quit talking to the nice wife and you wave goodbye as your driving away wishing she lived next door instead of an hour away. Oops. Sorry nice car lady. Don't worry. I could never find my way back alone and Bart's not the stalker type.

Love to each of you.

JUST BEACHY!

2008-02-08T03:11:00.000-08:00

Wet and Wild

2008-02-05T23:07:00.000-08:00

Hey, how yoa goin? It's incredibly difficult to copy an Aussie "o". It has a bit of a 'ya' to it?

No worries.

We had quite an adventure today. I thought I would put on my Amazing Mom hat, rarely used I am afraid, and take the boys off to a museum in Sydney. Let me back up.

It's another business trip. Last minute just like the trip to the outback only this time we are in a lovely hotel, Sheraton on the Park, in downtown Sidney. Believe me, when you come for your visit (yes, I am expecting LOTS of company!) you'll definitely want to add a skip over this way. This is tourist season and the tickets were about $350 each on short notice so...

O.K. so we head out walking. We buy breakfast and eat it in the gigantic park across the street before the big museum attraction. I might add that neither Jeremy or Riley were the slightest bit interested in going to a museum but since they are truant (as in, NOT ATTENDING A SCHOOL because of visa problems) and their mother is worried about their intellectual future, and going to jail? - they were going along with this great "field trip" idea of mine.

It was a long walk. They were thrilled that it was closed except for Sat and Sun to the general public. And yes, it hurt to hear that they only allow schools for their field trips during the rest of the week.

We ended up down at the harbor, Circle Quay. It was a nice and warm and the friendly agents at the boat ramp looked good hearted enough as they joked and teased us to come along. It wasn't 5 minutes later that we had handed over an outrageous amount of $$ for a jet boat outing. The seat belts and rubber ponchos should have alarmed me but it only lured me in further. I mean how bad could it be? And who needs a poncho on such a grand day on a boat? Wimps. Not us!

Soaked, I tell you. Sopping, dripping, squishing we were. He purposely drenched us, let us dry out some and then started the whole process over again. Was it awesome? Yes, it was. We had such a view of the bay and the beaches (inluding a darling cove with rocks and, hmmm, did I mention the nudists?) I have never had such ride! The boys had the prime seats right at the front. I don't know how they survived. It was constant waves washing over their heads with the occasional breath of air. You know it was extreme when Jeremy tell me later that he almost raised his fist (the universal sign of "STOP THE BOAT") but didn't want to ruin the ride for the rest of us. We all decided it was a must have but only once life experience and the view of the coast and activity of ships moving throughout the harbor was the best. Well worth it!

Well, the boys are waiting up in the room and some old guy is hanging over my shoulder waiting for internet access.

Much love too you all from Sydney and the Packers.

A pic or two

2008-01-31T04:48:00.000-08:00

Bart drove us to a wonderful neighborhood where he had seen lots of little roos. We searched and finally found our first little guy. By the way, do you know what they call kangaroos that have been hit by a car? Wasaroo! Sorry, that's pretty desparate but it's getting pretty late. Incredibly we also saw a fat koala curled up in this tree. They actually publish a little Koala Sightings newspaper to help keep track of where they are and aren't showing up. Don't you love that beautiful home? It's called a Queenslander. Very typical of homes built in a country type setting. Our neighborhood is more of a contemporary style. Lots of colored corrugated steel with random windows of all shapes and sizes. I like that, too but if I were building it would definitely be a Queenslander.

Surprise trip

2008-01-31T03:17:00.000-08:00

Sorry to be gone so long. For my large reading audience, all three of you, let me explain. It went like this. Bart had a business trip to the outback planned. I was supposed to take him to meet the others driving out only, oops, he was late so we decided to go with him! After 5 crazy minutes of grabbing what you thought you might need for doing who knows what at who knows where, we were off.!!

What a difference in scenery along the way. Here in Redland Bay it's obviously coastal so think breezes off the ocean and lots of palm trees, thick vegetation along the roadside, meadows sparsley filled with Eaucalyptus trees. Naturally, sites for ethanol plants are off in the middle of nowhere, which, turns out to be somewhere after all. We drove 4 hours west to drier and higher ground. The sky was a huge universe filled with rolling clouds. There were fields and fields of sorghum and corn and a green leafy mystery crop. Some of it was hilly. Seeing it for the first time was all magical. Even the whining in the back seat didn't bother me.

I wish could give you the flavor of it all. My photo ops leave a bit to be desired. I promise to do better for the next time. It was a great trip.

Our farthest stop was in a little town called Miles to see a potential site with a potential customer interested in building a fuel grade ethanol plant next to a power plant. Somehow it's a symbiotic relationship with the ethanol plant using water resulting from the power plant's process. I am not sure what it, the power plant, gets in return. Maybe free gas? Hee, hee.

It was hot. We went along on the truck with the rest of the guys but only lasted till our skin began to charbroil. Then we went looking at ants to distract ourselves until Bart was finished. We ended up staying in this darling hotel eating chocolate (me, can you believe they make a chocolate bar with brownie inside as well as a wonderful bar with different filling in each square?!!) and watching old movies on the one movie channel available. If you have a chance to see The Last Starfighter again. Please miss it.

The next day we stopped in Dalby, a name I have been hearing for the past 10 months. Finally the place has a face! It's a cute town and the planned plant is a small one. Right now it's just people in hard hats and flourescent orange vests scurrying around what looks like a foundation while others meet in air conditioned trailers to work out the kinks and deal with lenders. Soon it will be a plant processing ethanol at about 20 million gallons a day. Cool.

There is an American woman named Julie who is married to Kevin, a South African and also working on the project, who is living in Dalby. Their family has been in Australia for more than 5 months now. They have two little boys, 5 and 7. Michael and Jonathon. Bart has wanted me to meet her for awhile now. She is a lovely woman and next time I go to see her I'll take her picture for you. They met in Malowi Africa and have lived in many different countries and states, including about 6 months in Williamsburg, VA. I look forward to getting to know her better and meeting her boys. R and J were just that age when we were in Russia. Has it been that long? Anyways, I am sure she'll have lots to teach me even though she is 1 1/2 hours away.

Next stop was Toowoomba. A wonderful city at the top of wide flat mountain range. That makes no sense but that's exactly what it was. The drive from the bottom of the valley takes a good 10 minutes and seemingly takes you straight up 2000 feet. From there it was mostly flat with a few small hills in the distance. At the bottom of the range is a town called Withco where we stopped for traditional lunch of meat pies and delicious deserts. I think I am still full from that.

O.K. time for bed. More to blab about later. One last thing that I hesitate to share. It's gross. Are you ready? I mean, don't let this stop you from buying your plane tickets to visit us. You promise? Cockroaches. Not many, but enough to turn my stomach and make me think twice about walking into the kitchen in the dark. The first "visitor" walked right up my foot while I was at the sink. We just found two in the box of donuts I cleverly had hidden in the oven. Needless to say we are not thrilled with the company. Those buggars are fast! Blahhhkkkk, and the sound of their little feet on the cardboard. EWWWWWW!

My love to all. Don't have roach-mares tonight!

Wallabies and a Koala

2008-01-24T02:02:00.000-08:00

Bart hauled us off to look for kangaroos in a nearby neighborhood. Sure enough we saw close to 10 wallabies! Two of them were laying like dogs in front of someone's hedge. Jeremy tried to catch them but they go from lazing around to disappearing in the blink of an eye. Then Bart found a koala sitting in another person's eucalyptus tree! It was adorable. They sit in the L shape that the branch makes with the trunk. With their little chins tucked to chest it's almost impossible to make them out. What a fun treat. So now we can't wait to show all of the rest of you! So get your tickets. Qantas is having great deals until the end of February. The time is restricted but that's o.k. the weather here will be good till June.

As soon as I find the CD for my camera, (O.K., technically it's Bart's from Christmas) I'll get some pictures from the day.

Tomorrow will be all about getting the kids signed up for school. The next door neighbor, Leanne, has her kids in private school but it's pretty expensive and the boys aren't at all interested. The uniforms and stricter teachers (that's according to a very reliable source, Jeremy's buddy Heth) are a big no, no in their book.

The pool is working out wonderfully. Let's put it this way, I haven't heard the sounds of tv, xbox or even the psp for 2 whole days. Now it's the pool and some computer program where you write you own sheet music. Now if we can just get them being nice to each other, we'll be set.

Whew, the melatonin is setting in. We slept through the night till nearly 7 am so I have high hopes for the same tonight. Another benefit of the pool is how tired it makes you.

For all the Girls on The Go, congratulations on your continued meetings. Keep it up. I fully plan to join you one day in the not too distant future. And I know, I know...don't show up till 8am. No problem! We'll have lots to catch up on. Gee, we could do at least 10 miles with so much to chat about. Don't you think? By the way, I had my first Aussie run this morning. 8:30 am was way too late. The breeze was up but this sun(not that it's different than yours) is way strong for this immigrant! I barely made 30 minutes.

Love to all,

Kelli

2008-01-20T22:32:00.000-08:00

This is Bennett! 10 months old, 25 pounds. He was born with Tranversal of the Great Artery and had open heart surgery at 5 days old. Now he's happy and huge. His big bright blue eyes paired with a smile that melts your heart make him hard to resist. He is the first child of my little sister Liz. They timed their visit to coincide with our stay but left two days before us, and, like I'll repeat again in the next blog, we miss them so much. You'll be meeting all of the family at some point. Lucky you!

Ready for take off

2008-01-20T21:31:00.000-08:00

Well, tomorrow is the big day. It's two hours to LAX. We'll board at midnight and arrive 16 hours later in Brisbane. So simple and yet, there's an underlying current of stress agitating my system. I am on high alert.

What am I forgetting? Will it all fit? Is the Visa accurate and acceptable or will they deny us entry and send us back? How much time should we allow for travel to the airport? Where will the boys go to school? What grade will they be in? Should we go with a state school or a private school? Where are the stores? How much do groceries cost? Is the internet going to work? Ahhh, the voices in my head are getting out of control! Whew, best not to allow those many thoughts to formulate. Just pray the important stuff gets through. Let the rest sift.

It's been a quiet Sunday of church, packing, gniochi making, organizing taxes, digging holes in the backyard(boys) and now, more packing. The house seems so quiet without my sister and her baby Bennett. I'll see if I can find a picture of him to upload. He's sooo delicious!

It is absolutely right to be here with my family. There have been some great discussions, not all of them pretty, but all of them pretty important. I am re-learning how the people closest to us are our best teachers.

Stay tuned for the story of "The Incredible Departure". It's a whopper. You might not believe it, but it's verifiable and besides that, would I lie? Exaggerate maybe, but not lie!

Here's the hymn that's running through my simple head: "Come, come ye saints no toil or labor fear, but with joy wend your way. Tis better far for us to strive our useless cares from us to drive; do this and joy your hearts will swell - All is well! All is well!

Late Night In the Desert

2008-01-16T23:36:00.000-08:00

It's late. I am tired but just for Tami, I am speaking out of the darkness to say "Hi".

We have traveled, shopped for Christmas, wrapped Christmas, unwrapped Christmas and cleaned it up. The road has taken us as far north as Idaho Falls, where we painted, tiled, cleaned, recovered from illness (me), watched lots of movies and played video games (Guess who?), visited with friends, and rediscovered the useless junk we pay $35/month to store, and now south, to the small town of Joshua Tree where we ride dirt bikes and 4 wheelers (Riley and Jeremy), eat and lay around talking with family, recover from an odd out-of-the-blue and as heavy as a wet blanket depression (me), do hair, and play with baby Bennett.

It's crazy. One day my hands are death gripped on the rental car steering wheel praying to survive Utah and Idaho's dark icy roads and relentless snowflakes, the next I am nonchalantly cruising So. Cal. old highway 62 where my biggest concern is my Dad's occasional aggresive tailgating. You may know the technique. He wants to pass so he pulls within inches of the car ahead of him whilst looking backwards through the rearview mirror at the car to the left, then, surges around the poor soul who had the audacity to drive slower. Come to think of it, it sixes. Ice, Dad. Hmm?

At least the passports are all in order and in my possesion, the visas are underway and tickets have been purchased for Australia. We are only 6 days later than originally planned! Bart has occupied the new house and after a long frustrating battle with the electric company's brick wall customer service, has power. He also has internet through a neighbor's set up that works, "sorta", as long as his garage door is open. We are quickly seeing that life in a foreign country, regardless of what we had imagined, is going to have a glitch or two! Hey, the way I see it, better stories!

Well, this blogging is going to be addictive. If it could only replace chocolate!

G'night.

My policy it going to be no rereading of the entire blog to check for errors. So there.

Last Night in Williamsburg

2007-12-16T16:41:00.001-08:00

So, that means that I have absolutely NO time to post anything! Check back tomorrow night, no, make that the following night for all the delirious details! Oh, like for instance, the fire truck that pulled up in front of the house this morning. The neighbor called on us for burning paper in the back yard. So now we have a huge pile of partly burned private documents that will have to be picked up and bagged and carried to the curb tomorrow morning sometime between loading 9 suitcases, a dog, a cat, 2 boogie boards, 2 snowboards, a bike and, oh yeah, US!

Time to clean. See you Tuesday!