We 're counting: Christmas 2023 - Home in Nelson 🎄

Family photo 💕 - thanks Hamish

For the first time in fifteen years, all the Family were home for Christmas. How excited was Sheryl? Nick & Em flew into New Zealand two weeks before Christmas, taking a week coming down from Auckland, catching up with cousin Paull & Marta in Tauranga and to show our lovely country off to Em.

Ophelia quite happy in the Bus

They arrived in Nelson the same day as Rocky. I met Rocky at the airport and Bill drove to Picton to pick up N&E. A very emotional day. Rocky had already shared her news that she was having a baby (big shock to her and Daniel!) with Bill & I. So when N&E shared their news that they were having another wee one in the new year we were over the moon. Can't say that was exactly Rocky's emotion at the time. I think this is why pregnancies are the length they are - to allow women time to adjust to the thought they are about to be a Mum. All going well, the births should be close to each other, July / August 2024.

Able Tasman Lookout

One night at home before heading over to Golden Bay ( Ligar Bay) to have a few nights at Rod & Anne's Bach while Rocky & Nick relived all their childhood memories of our holidays over there and show Em beautiful Golden Bay. The Bach was a perfect set up for our day tripping and lovely to take Ophelia over the road to the beach.

On our return to Nelson, Shannon and AC were already settled in, a big surprise for Rocky who gets upset when her sister arrives Christmas Eve or Christmas day! So we had a few days before Christmas to make the most of the beautiful weather and all being back in Nelson. S&A were out in her old room - the sleepout. Rocky had her old room. E&N and Ophelia had our room. Bill & I were happily out in the Bus for the period, everyone was home. Daniel turned up two days after Christmas, so I was able to get the Family photo before people started heading off in different directions.

Wharariki Beach

It was a lovely relaxed Christmas. Nick had tested positive for Covid the day before, so we didn't socialise with Bill's extended family. Sadly, poor Joan got it at the Rest Home just before Christmas too, so it was pretty quiet for her as well. And with two of the four women pregnant, and Nick on zero beer, it wasn't a boozy affair either. Shannon and AC did have one or two drinks with Bill and I. 😊

Moutere Hills Vineyard for lunch

It was a wonderful 3 weeks, being able to catch up with cousins as well. Simon, Nicki & Family joined us on a trip into the Able Tasman for the day. Paull and Marta also came down staying with us for a few nights and also with Simon & Nicki. It was a lovely family time, of course Bill and I thoroughly enjoying all our cuddles with Ophelia. She loved coming out to the Bus and pressing every button possible 😂. A wonderful way to start the new year - welcome 2024.