Spring in our steps

I can't believe its been over three months since our last entry. It's flown by. We are truly loving our new life in Te Atatu.

We've made loads of lovely new friends, have fully settled into our wonderful house and now the winter has passed, we are looking forward to a bright and happy summer.

Best of all, the girls and I have had their beloved Dadda home more than ever before - apart from a rather long 7 weeks when he was covering the Olympics in London.



We survived via Skype.
 
Even Jon's birthday was virtually enjoyed.

http://vimeo.com/50023519


Towards the end, Orla was literally counting down the days.

And a very sweet reunion it was for Jon and his little SmOrl.

Sylvie and I were also very happy to see him!


Sylvie even saved up her first proper steps.
http://vimeo.com/49998147

We chased up the reunion with a celebratory long weekend at the beach house in Whangapoua. 

Sleep ins for us and sleep outs for the kids...

... sandcastles and running races on the beach...

 

... and lots of lovely long walks.

  

And a Happy Fathers Day on the Sunday for Dadda.

Now we're attacking our garden with Spring in our steps.


The banana and privet trees are down...

... and a trampoline has been added.

Jon is also teaching the girls to play golf in a hope to re-transform his Sundays.

Last weekend we enjoyed a visit with Great Great Aunt Flis with both parties very excited to be seeing each other again.

We then called in to the Ellerslie Fairy Festival.

Fairy floss was first tasted...

... and a pacifier was required for the Team Leader.

We of course have our very own fairy in the family now with Orla head over heels about ballet.

Night before her first class...

... and away she went.

This is her new BFF and kindy compadre Lola Yates.

The Birdie Dance.

http://vimeo.com/50020719
Orla is also learning to ride a bike.

 

We have decided that our other daughter is definitely more pet than person - perhaps our fault for nicknaming her after a common pest.


She is no longer the placid English rose baby - instead, rather determined and outdoorsy!

She has also developed an impressive Worley Scowl....

... and her favourite game is withholding kisses!
http://vimeo.com/50000761
In her defence, she has a wicked sense of humour and makes us all laugh with her possum like antics.

She, like Orla, can be impatient (nothing to do with me), throwing my slippers on my head in bed each morning, exclaiming 'Hereare'.

She calls Orla Bubba, an irony completely lost on her. 

The girls continue to be devoted to each other.

Jon is back off to the UK on Saturday for a couple of weeks so we're looking forward to heading south to visit Jeck, Stu and Isabella Marr.

Cant wait to see you Issy!

 

Lots of love from us all,

Jon, Hannah, Orla and Sylvie xoxo