Well, it was about that time. Our one and a half year adventure in Australia and New Zealand was now to a finish. We flew out Tuesday evening the 23rd. But before we flew out, there was some business to be done… the big trade. I must say, Jeremy and Eliza were a huge blessing in our lives. Not only because of this life saving trade, but because of the friendship and encouragement they gave us. Colin and Jeremy were like two peas in a pod. They had an instant bond when macintosh computers were mentioned – and it just grew from there. Then, what started as a simple joke about trading a van for an iphone – slowly started to get some consideration, until the day came for us to leave and the van hadn’t sold. So, the trade became offical. Thanks Eliza for your super skills of photo documenting this memorable moment and event… It’s not one that will soon be forgotten in our lives!
It was definitely a bitter sweet day for us. We were so excited to come home and see family. On the other hand – when you live in a country for a year, it kinda becomes your home. We were sad to leave the green grass, hills, rain, snow, mountains, and seeing at least 5 rainbows a day. It was also very hard to say goodbye to our new “family.” From the start of our time in New Zealand, the Marlar’s opened their house to us, while we got situated and figured out what we were going to do. I’m sure it was hard at times to have two extra people in the house (for almost 2 months), but they never showed it. Casey and Callie became like two more siblings to us. We watched movies together, played tons of cards, went to basketball games, and even some mornings got up super early so we could all go to the YMCA to play b-ball. We got to be a part of their lives and see the wonderful work they are doing in their church. I can truly say Scott and Rissa Marlar the two most selfless people I know. They gave up their lives in Texas to come serve and help a church in Auckland. God is doing amazing things there and wish we could have stayed longer.
Here is our final picture with the Marlar family before we headed off to the airport.
Just a picture with Callie and I. We bought matching shoes – and this picture makes us look like bobble heads!!
Jeremy and Eliza came to the airport as well. We all ate dinner together in the food court then the Marlars left for a meeting. These two stayed and played some cards with us to help pass some of the time! Then, it was off to the terminal… time to leave New Zealand.
We truly had a life changing experience these last 1.5 years. God has changed us and we made some great new friends. It’s impossible to put it down in words, but I hope the blogs of our adventures has given you a glimpse into a part of our journey. We are excited to see what is in store for us next!
By Colin and Andre’a Feldhaus
by admin
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