Living in an Oven

Seriously, it is so hot in Oklahoma right now that when you step outside it's like being slowly baked in an oven. Even in the evenings- like at 8pm it's still 90+ degrees. We are fortunate to have air conditioning to make summers here bareable.

Another thing that helps is being in water. Chelsea and I have gone swimming in friends pools which is refreshing and my favourite summer past time. Recently we hit the lake with our good friends Gavan and Melody. It was great to be in their boat and cool off in the water. I promise not to compare everything to New Zealand but allow me this one. In New Zealand the water was beautiful, crystal clear and yes, freezing cold! In lake Arcadia the water was so muddy I couldn't see my feet while only ankle deep- however nice and warm.





Chelsea and her girlfriend Jaylen hanging out.






Finally check out this video of Pick tickling Chelsea.

Farewell New Zealand

We have made the big move across the Pacific Ocean and then across the United States and now have our feet safely planted in Oklahoma City. We have ridden the roller coaster of moving overseas; the turmoil of emotions, the stress of downsizing to a bare minimum, packing- weighing our bags- then repacking, farewelling our favourite spots around town, and hugging and crying as we left our dear friends. We are so grateful that we had the opportunity to live in Tauranga. It is a beautiful city with lovely people and our hearts hurt as we miss them.

Here's some pictures covering the last few weeks:

Here I am with my girlfriends (and Chelsea) at our going away party

The church praying for us. (Notice all the kids surounding Chelsea!)

Chelsea with Chris and Melinda Miller (the minister at Otumoetai)

We are missing everyone there already....

And so begins our re-entry to America.