"There's no place like home!"

We haven't posted in awhile, as we've settled into a nice routine here, and in part because in the face of Hurricane Irene, our adventures seem trivial.  For those of you who may not know, Hurricane Irene missed Manhattan, but hit our beloved hometown in Wilmington, Vermont.  Although schools and roads have reopened, and water and sewer are repaired, the Village of Wilmington has suffered losses and faces an uncertain future.

It is interesting to notice how human nature responds to tragedy. One would think we would feel lucky to be so far away from the trials Irene has wrought.  Instead we feel a longing for home more intense than any homesickness.  This is an important time for Wilmington, where the future is being shaped and we long to be there.  We are not alone.  Through Facebook we found kindred spirits in others who "missed" the flood.  Those who happened to be away or recently moved, or second home owners who couldn't get there.

Our hearts go out to the business owners who have suffered and need to make really tough decisions.  It's been inspiring to witness the outpouring of support and encouraging to discover what a community we are!

We are headed to Napier this weekend.  In the early 1930's the entire city was destroyed by an earthquake.  The city organized and was rebuilt.  They made the decision to rebuild in the popular style of the time.  Luckily, it was the time of the Art Deco movement.  Interestingly, it took fifty years to realize what a treasure they had built. Today it has a strong tourism industry and is a destination for those interested in architecture.

The tragedy to our town may also present an opportunity to be reborn, one I hope we don't pass up!

We are with you in spirit and will be with you in body soon!

Shelley, the clear winner in this rugby race!

Touring wine country with these French Boys!

Napier destroyed 1931 earthquake, rebuilt with vision!

Home!

Stay tuned for more Kiwi adventures!