We have had the most busy and fun past month. So much has happened, it’s hard to summarise it in just one blog. I will try to be brief and include lots of photos. Well it all began just after our renovation. The reason (which we couldn’t say at the time) for the big rush to finish was that we had Joel’s family come to stay with us for a couple of weeks. Joel’s brother Zac, his wife Fraze and baby Eliza came to stay with us from around 16th December. Then together with Simon, Joel’s brother who also flew in from Melbourne, we flew to Paris and north into the countryside to stay at a farmhouse that Joel’s dad John and his family had rented for a week. This was a huge surprise to Joel’s sisters Em and Bec, and was in honour of Emma’s 21st Birthday. We spent a night at the farm and then drove down to Paris where we stayed a few nights.
Paris was beautiful, especially as it was just before Christmas so the place was lit up with lights and decorations, and there was definitely a buzz in the air. Joel and I finished some last minute Christmas shopping and enjoyed seeing some of the sights with the others. A particular highlight was visiting Notre Dame during a Carols Concert and hearing the organ in action with a choir. It was absolutely packed, standing room only.
One very special treat for us having all the family visit was that we got to meet our little niece Eliza for the first time. She was born while we were living over here in Norway, so we were so excited and thrilled to meet our little 18 month old darling. She is just a delight, a really happy, fun little girl with a beautiful face and a cheeky grin. We adored getting to know her and miss her already now that we are back.
After a few nights in Paris we all flew back together to Stavanger on 23rd December. Joel took an expedition of those that were game up to Pulpit Rock, not an easy climb at the best of times but even more treacherous in the middle of winter with snow and ice everywhere (just ask Sally!). We also showed everyone around Stavanger including some trips to town and around Mosvanet, the lake near our house. The Oil Museum was also fun, and Joely loves to get everyone involved in a bit of oil industry propaganda!
Christmas Day was a big family affair with 9 of us plus the baby all helping with the preparations and serving a big lunch. It was a really lovely day and so special for us to have everyone here at our home.
All too soon it was all over and everyone was flying back to Melbourne or continuing their holiday in Europe. So then Joel’s and my thoughts turned to our trip home to Melbourne.
