Farewell London!

We are in the midst of our move back to California. But just wanted to take a moment to say goodbye. Our time in London has been life-changing. We will never forget the friends we've made and experiences we have had. On Sunday we said goodbye to so many wonderful friends. It was a sad day knowing that we may never see some of these great people again. It's always a bittersweet thing to move... like finishing a great book that you don't want to end. Thank you dear friends. We will miss you! Thank you for all you have taught us. You have greatly blessed our lives. Our bishop and other counselor in the bishopric.
Yodit is our friend from Eritrea (formerly part of Ethiopia). She joined the church last March. She is a very faithful woman and has blessed our lives immensely. I was able to go to the temple with her in June and it is a lovely memory.
Kerry with the girls and Yodit's son, Beemnet and Joyce's daughter, Tara.

Last Day of School!

Oops... bad mommy. Forgot to post pictures of the last day of school for the girls. Makenna and Mrs. Channel... she was an absolute delight as a teacher. She had a perfect balance of being firm and fun. She played the guitar and sang with the kids everyday. If they were sad (really sad... and not whiny sad) she would pick them up to give them a hug. She is just lovely!
Brooklyn & Ms. Platt... she also is very lovely. She was great to make the kids think and feel loved. She was super creative and always encouraged the kids to be artistic.

Scottish Highlands

Just back from a trip to Scotland. Since my dad wasn't able to make it for a trip, Josh and I decided to do Scotland separately and without the kids. They are a little tired of travelling. My dear friend Kerry visits Scotland often and agreed to be my tour guide through the Highlands. She planned a wonderful trip. She loves to walk so planned a little walk around one of the lochs. We passed by Prince Charles' summer home... and enjoyed our time in the rain and cold. We went to Balmoral Castle (the Queen's summer home... why they can't share... I don't know? Looks big enough to me). Then went on a hunt for Nessie the Loch Ness Monster. No luck... so we went to see Mamma Mia instead. Thank you Sister Miller! Thanks Josh for staying home with the kids while I was partying... and FREEZING. Kerry and I at Balmoral Castle.
Nessie's Loch
Inverness by night

Makenna's Sports Day

Makenna's sports day was a much anticipated event. She talked about it for weeks in advance. We had a great time... especially Makenna. Z got a little tired but enjoyed climbing on the playground and playing in the trees.

Happy Independence Day America... from the British!

We have been rather thorough in celebrating American holidays as we've lived here in London. Best yet... the 4th of July! We invited tons of people over for a BBQ and fireworks. The attendees were great sports... bringing American balloons, flags and wearing stars and stripes! This a picture of the fireworks spectators... in the smokey aftermath!

tesco.com

Q: How do you shop for a family of five while living in London... without a car???

A: Tesco.com! Zack wanted to take a moment and thank the grocery guys that deliver to our kitchen counter... they are the only strangers he would ever go anywhere with!

HSM

High School Musical - LIVE ON STAGE (as Brooklyn calls it) is in London for the summer. I couldn't resist the cheap tickets... and thought it would be lots of fun for the girls. Our friend Kerry decided to come as well (since she has convinced the girls that Troy is her boyfriend)... so we had a super fun girls night out... a little late for a school night... but what American kids are still in school anyway???

Wimbledon

We were out of town last year during Wimbledon... so this year we decided we had to go! We took Z Man and left the girls with the Primary President... thanks T. After going to a different tournament... I realized tennis is not a spectator sport for children! We had a great time... enjoyed the strawberries and cream and actually had sunshine!