We had a grand and different Christmas this year.  Santa kept in mind our upcoming move and brought travel items - small games, neck pillows, videos, and such.  The children were happy to learn that we are going to Disneyland while in LA.  In fact, this time next week we will be at Disneyland!

This move has gotten here so quickly.  I have the bags packed - we need one more suitcase - I need to complete packing the kitchen and bathrooms.  The movers come next Tuesday - a mere 4 days! What we are not giving away will go in storage and to other family members who have a need or desire.

We are still working.  Adrian will work his last shift tomorrow and I on Monday.  Luckily and thanks to the schedulers, he has been at all of his places so has been able to bid farewell to all those friends he has made over the years.  We have really felt so loved by all of our friends at work.  So many kind words, cards, and a really special book for me and photograph for Adrian.  We had a lovely meal with friends, some new for me and some long-time friends of Adrian's.  Thanks to all involved in sending us off in such a thoughtful and kind way.

We received a great package of information about our new city - Palmerston North.  We have all enjoyed looking at all there is to do and see.  Palmerston North is in the Manawatu region.  The name "Manawatu' is derived from two words, Manawa and tu.  Manawa refers to the heart - tu describes something that has come to a halt.  The ancestor Hau uttered the words "ka tu taku manawa" meaning 'my heart stands still' at the sight of the awesome Manawatu River.

We will be heading to the Land of the Long White Cloud next Friday night and I will keep you posted on our progress. As they say, "Pomarie" Good Night!

Four weekends...

The tree is up but the house is not trimmed as usual.
The packages are being dropped at the door by the overworked delivery people.
Accounts are being closed here and opened in new lands.
Cars are sold and furniture has new homes.
Homes are rented, praise God!
Packing has begun in earnest.
Excitement is mounting and tears are flowing from time to time.
We are all looking forward to the unexpected and hesitant about leaving our people.
The pantry is getting bare.
We are really doing this!

Santa will find us no matter where we lay our heads but this will be the last time for the foreseeable future that he finds us in Nolensville.  When next he comes we will be in the summer wearing shorts and Santa hats in Palmerston North...

Happy Holidays to all...