AUSTRALIA DAY 2008

Australia Day, celebrated annually on 26 January, is the official national day of Australia, commemorating the establishment of the first European settlement on the continent of Australia. The date is that of the foundation of a British penal colony, by Captain Arthur Phillip, who was to become the first Governor.

We started out Australia day with a ward BBQ at the park. Where we ran into the David and Roxann who are in town for a couple of weeks. It was good to see them again and catch up. They lived in Sydney for five years, where he served as bishop for the ward we are currently attending, and have been back in the States now for a few years. He works for AMEX as well. David also used to be Kevin's bishop when he went on his mission - what a small world. Roxann also brought goodies from the States - which she will bring to Church tomorrow (can't wait).We spent a good portion of the morning at the park playing on the equipment, chatting with friends, eating yummy food, and Kev and the kids played tennis. Although it started out really early for us (7:00 am), and we were late because the kids just wouldn't wake up, we had a great time celebrating our first Australia Day!

We ended the day with a BBQ - can't have Australia Day without one, as is evident by the smell coming in through the windows all night long - and a trip to the park to play with Cooper's parachute man. To end the night we played Blokus and then had baths and bed. It was a nice relaxing day.

BTW - Thanks to Dan and Linda and family for the package. We got it in the mail upon returning from our vacation to Adelaide. It had to go through quarantine and customs - but nothing was taken out - so I think it may have taken longer than usual. We love all the goodies and the kids loved the toys (especially the parachute man!! It was a huge hit!!!) Thanks you guys are the best!!