Christmas

Early on Christmas Day we drove up to Auckland, to join the Gray clan at Alison's for brunch.

We each brought a $20 gift and played a game which meant you could open a gift or opt to steal someone's. Some gifts were very popular and were 'stolen' several times - just as well there was a limit, you could only lose 'your' gift a maximum of three times!

Christmas

Then over to Waiheke Island (45 minute ride on the ferry) where John's brother Peter lives. We arrived in time for pavlova, strawberries and cream - YUM!

Christmas

More fantastic views from Pete's place & we enjoyed the most amazing sunset that evening.

Joe's Graduation

Joe (John's son) graduated from Faith Bible College in November 2008. Proud friends & family gathered to watch. Big surprise to us all (including Joe) when he received the Eagle Award for Outstanding Excellence - good on you, Joe!
photos from top: Joe & his proud Dad, Joe with girlfriend Ali, Joe and his mum Jenny, Joe with his Diploma and award, Joe & Ali

Bella learning to surf

Bella thoroughly enjoyed her Learning to Surf time with John. I took some video but missed all the best bits - such as when she was balancing on the (polystyrene) board and it began to float. She has great balance, persisted in trying and did really well.

more from Grandparents' Camp

Bella had a go at most things: archery, boating (row, kayak, paddle), and skimming (hold on tight to a plastic disc that skims down a hill - must be very wet with dew)