Stefan and Abigail's Wedding Reception

 

 

 

 

 

Stefan and Abigail's Wedding Ceremony

It was just like Stefan to have his wedding ceremony and reception at a ski lodge. His house is actually just down the road from the lodge, which is very convenient. Thankfully, the weather cooperated and it did not rain on the beautiful couple. The ceremony was short and sweet, and it was special to be able to celebrate in their happiness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stefan and Abigail's Rehearsal Dinner

Just two weeks after touching down in the good old US of A, I loaded my bags into my Uncle's suburban and road tripped out to Idaho with family for my cousin Stefan's wedding. Stefan and Abigail were sweet enough to move the date of their wedding just so that I could be there, so I wasn't going to miss it for the world. My aunt Jo, Uncle Mike, and my parents and I arrived in time to make it to the rehearsal dinner. It was so good to see Stefan and Missy, Uncle Pete and Elke, and to get the chance to meet Abigail for the first time. We all had a great time catching up, laughing, and of course eating! I was especially touched to see all of my aunts old furniture in my cousin's house.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nana and Bapa's House

Nana took us to her favorite neighborhood park. They boys loved climbing, sliding, exploring, etc. at Nana's park. What a treat it has been to be in warm weather again. Ahhh...

 

 

 

 

 

Connecting with Friends!

Alana invited me over to her mom's house for a Stampin' Up/Tea Party presented by Angela. It was really, really good to see Alana, Angela, Jen, Alana's mom, and aunt again, not to mention being able to meet and hold sweet baby Ellie for the first time. What a treat to be around close friends, and to connect with people who understand my life in New Zealand. Alana's sister Jen, and her cousin Melanie both married New Zealander's, so Alana's whole family can relate and understand what life was like for me overseas. Unfortunately, I had a stressful cultural moment on the drive to the party. I forgot how "BIG" and "SPREAD OUT" Colorado is, not to mention how large the houses and cars are. I was so overwhelmed. Let's just say that it wasn't my favorite moment since being home. Somehow I managed to figure out how to get to Alana's mom's house for the party, and once I was amidst friends, I forgot all about my nutty drive there. Whew!

 

 

Catching up with Grandpa and Grandma Felix

Grandma Felix is such a creative grandma. She got out the paint brushes and encouraged the boys to paint on the sidewalk, the car, etc. with water. I believe it was Isaac's idea to "think outside of the box" and paint on himself and the trees. Love it! You can see in the photos how meticulous Hudson is about his artwork. He was so detailed and thoughtful as he painted. I love the sweet picture of Hudson talking to his daddy. That picture is priceless. We finished off the evening by eating yummy Chinese food on the balcony. It was a gorgeous night to be with family and to celebrate life together again in Colorado!