I've been reminded of the joy and delights of marriage after surviving nine days (!!) away from Andrew. I was able to take a road trip down south with Dad Dickson, Zeke, and nephews- Jack and Jesse. Two days of gawking at NZ scenery (when Zeke could spare the attention :) from Mum and Dad's new X-Trail and a beautiful four hour ferry crossing from North to South Island landed us at the Tarbotten home (Andrew's sister Helen and family).
I enjoyed getting to know Dickson family relatives better as well as the stimulation and inspiration that comes from natural beauty, fresh air, and new experiences. The Tarbotten's live well out of Ashburton, surrounded by towering mountains and foggy hillsides. Short hikes lead to many breath-taking views. One afternoon we walked a muddy path down a steep track to 'Sandy beach'- a place along the Rangitata River gorge filled with deep, clear, blue water rapids and plenty of sand to keep a load of kids happy running around in.
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| Picnicing outside Parlimentary Buildings, Wellington. |
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| Waiting for the ferry. |
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| Entering the Marlborough Sounds, South Island NZ. |
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| Up in the barn down on the farm. |
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| Watersliding Woohoos by Joshua! |
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| Caleb's turn.. |
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| My turn to brave the whoosh. :) |
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| Heidi introducing Zeke to her pet sheep. |
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| Tramping time. |
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| A break from the car |
Over the course of friendship, courtship, engagement, and marriage Andrew and I have been on quite a few road trips together. It felt strange to be exploring his homeland without him. I had Andrew's babe beside me, his Dad in the front seat, and nephews on either side but the man himself was sorely missed. In the South Island as I enjoyed family and the beautiful country it hit me just how much this man has changed my life, if it weren't for him I'd never be here or know any of these people that are now family. Another aspect of the trip I enjoyed immensely were the times I spent with Abba. I found the trip to be a refreshing retreat with God where He met me again and again, showing me His all sufficiency, His deep love, care, and delight in me.
