Saturday 15 May 2010

One Big Happy Family

We are back home at last after five weeks away in the USA. Jeff and I drove 6,616 miles together (that's 10,647km!) through 12 states. Our route took us through California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, more of Colorado, more of Utah, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and then more of Oregon and finally California again. We visited 12 National Parks, Monuments and Historic Sites plus numerous National Forests and Wildlife Preserves. And we came away inspired to be tourists in our own city, exploring Perth together with our children.

Today we began our hometown tourist exploits, walking up Reabold Hill in Bold Park, with a few stops to explore the bush on the way, and admire the banksias, taking in the views of city and sea. It was a great "adventure" and we all had a lot of fun. The complete absence of mountains, after so many weeks admiring them, was somewhat startling. But the presence of four happy children more than made up for the absence of mountains.It is absolutely marvellous to be home again with our four beautiful, beloved children.

Thank You God for holidays. And thank You for bringing us home. Amen.

4 comments:

Mrs. Edwards said...

It is so good to see you all together again. Or at least Jeff with the kids! Where's your picture? :)

What a fun outing! It is funny how we sometimes don't see the sights of our own home until visitors come to town! Which reminds me--Mr. E's sister and family are coming to town at the end of the month and guess what? My SIL suggested we eat at Carriage Crossing. I don't want to go back there but don't know what to say!

Great to see your kids and I hope someday to see them in real life!
xx,
Amy

Meredith said...

Welcome back! The family reunion must have been FANTASTIC. The children all look really well. Hope the settling in and return to routine goes smoothly and contentedly.
Mxx

Karen Webb said...

Hi Sharon, welcome back! Your post reminded me of when I came back from Canada. Our once impressive Darling Scarp just looked liked a small undulating piece of land to me. I also have to wonder how some people must perceive Perth City from your photo - looks like a small country town doesn't it!!
Love Karen Webb

argsmommy said...

That view in the second to last picture is incredible! I'm sure it's wonderful to be back with your kids and are settling back into everyday life.