We rented our house out in June and have been nomads for the past 1 1/2 months. We are counting down to December 1 when we start our mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints!
So far we visited family in Tucson, vacationed with family in San Diego, took our five year olds to Disneyland, visited our fam in Cedar City, visited Vegas (too hot!), and dog sat and visited the Trese family in Oxnard – and the beach! So fun! We then headed to New Mexico for Eric’s 40th class reunion. We visited his mom, Mary Jo, and Frank. We also visited Durango and Silverton, CO. On to Los Alamos to visit my Mom and Dave – hiking in the mountains and sightseeing in Santa Fe. Our final stop in NM was in Albuquereque where we visited my Aunt Shelley where we watched Flamenco dancers and had a great time catching up! We were also able to see Eric’s brother, Chris, and family.
Some things we’ve learned as nomads:
* Spending time with family is a blessing! We have loved our time with extended family too! So fun – but don’t overstay your welcome-ha ha! A huge thank you to all our fabulous hosts for the delicious meals and great company!
* Every church we visited, in each city, people were welcoming, kind, and loving! We had a lunch invitation, hugs and so many well wishes. A beautiful reminder that we are ALL children of God!
* When I miss my house and my “routine,” (which I’ve experienced many times!), this quote from Russell B. Nelson has come to my mind. “The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.”
* I know that as I try to focus my life on trusting and following the Savior, loving and serving as He would, I can find peace, joy, and comfort in various life circumstances.
Stay tuned for more of our “Journey to Australia.”
The Helland's Down Under 