Today was "kind of" the last day of school for my boys. Tomorrow is the actual last day- year book signing for 3 hours. Zach had an award ceremony since he is in 9th grade (they go to high school in 10-12th where we live) today. He got the Math Award for the 9th grade, some sports awards and a award for being 4.0 (the highest you can get in our school system) for all 7th, 8th and 9th grade. Honestly, I admire him. He focuses on academics and balances baseball (which is a big commitment of time).
Yes, he did not want this photo taken. I am just thankful he let's me take them anyway. He started baseball tonight- he plays on two teams, plus a traveling team. He will play games every single night but Sundays (no games). Okay... you may think that is a ton. It is so many games and you would think he would get sick of it but this it is his love and passion. He came home from the game tonight and asked his dad to go in the batting cage to practice some things with him.
IN two weeks... McKay is leaving for the MTC- Missionary Training Center.
Oh my heart is torn between exploding with happiness at her desire to serve others and knowing she will be gone for 18 months. Zach is having a hard time knowing she will be gone.
Tomorrow, I am headed for a long day traveling to Puerto Rico to teach. McKay, Taylor, Rachel and Josilyn are driving to Anaheim to see Matt and his family and go to Disneyland together. I love this. I'm thankful for Kayla and Matt for letting them stay with them. It will be a short 4 day trip for them. I know this will be a great weekend for McKay to enjoy the family, Disneyland and the beach before she leaves.
Family and Friends- McKays farewell will be on Sunday June 16th if you would like to come. She will be talking in church. It will be at 12:50 pm at our church. We would love to see all of you and we are having a open house at our home immediately following church. We would love to have you all there!
I wanted to share photos from our last two days in NZ. I loved this trip!!!!
I think I love this photo. It reminds me of being in Jodi's car and having the most amazing ride throughout the country side. The green & lush landscape, the animals (sheep), the long winding rooms... it was just so beyond beautiful.
McKay and I together. I loved having the one on one time with her. So important when you have as many children as I do. I always knew I wanted a large family. I gave birth to FIVE amazing children. I have two wonderful bonus sons. This is the ultimate gift(s).
We went to the ferry to head to Waiheke Island. This was on our last day. We were meeting Michele and Michelle to go ziplining. I was more than nervous but really wanted to do it.
We were at the very top of island.
They had McKay show us how to put on our gear. They said it would give us all an instant "butt lift." It was uplifting. ha!
My favorite photo from the day- right before we all went on one of three lines into the bush. Michelle, Michele, McKay, ME, Maggie and TC. We were all a little nervous. McKay and I decided to go first. We went down in pairs. The view from the top of the island- WOW! We went down all three lines and then had to walk about 30 minutes from the bottom- through the bush- to the top of island.
Our safety was top priority to the guides. I felt comfortable the entire time and safe. I think that is why I could allow myself to enjoy the experience.
Maggie and McKay. So thankful that Maggie invited us to stay at her home for two days after the event. She really made us feel welcome. It was wonderful to get to know her.
A cool view of the guides getting McKay ready to come down from doing a ride.
All safe... we loved it so much. It was the perfect day spent with amazing friends. THANK YOU Michele for coming and going with us. (& Michelle).
Then we went to lunch before we had to go to the ferry and race to the airport to come home.
We had a yummy lunch here. I am truly grateful for this trip. Seeing the world always makes me even more appreciative for life, for God's creations and I feel so blessed to get to meet new friends around the world.
I did not expect to being going back next year. When they asked me after the event- I immediately said YES! I am looking forward to going again.
Now for a few hours of sleep before the next journey...
