The Hendersons

At the recent wedding party in Te Puke I was asked to gather the Henderson's for a shot. Here is Grandma (in the centre wearing green) with all her 6 children, about half the grandchildren (she has 19) & great grandchildren (she has 9) plus partners. Quite a clan!

Alexa's new cardy

It is getting colder in Auckland with some days fine, some grey and high humidity (muggy) and others (like today) drizzly and cold. Change of season means that now even more than usual you need to carry something for all seasons. We are finally on the internet at home which means access to blog updates should be more frequent. It also means my hunt for a job is gaining pace and with Alexa going to 3 days per week childcare after Easter I really need to find something soon. Otherwise I have to keep finding things to tidy/clean around the house to show how busy I am!!!

I am now truly Mrs Chappy and have changed my name in most places - banks etc. I find it a bit frustrating that I can set up a new account in my old name only a week ago without this much hassle, but to change the name on this account requires forms and proof of marriage. It still sounds bizarre to my ears and of course the signature thing requires much more practice.

Recently Alexa was given an Alpaca jersey and hat for her birthday by Uncle Dougal and Aunty Emma. I decided that the weather was cold enough for her to try it one day. So here she is with her favourate toy - Pooh Bear. He is much loved and often ends up smelling of marmite or sticky banana so has had a few washes. We have his back-up in the cupboard but haven't had to use it yet.

And Alexa was there too!

With Anne (Grannie Annie) and Kathryn (Aunty Kate).

Shores of Lake Taupo

The romantic shots

Kirsten's brothers - Jamie and Dougal

The Ceremony

The Entrance

Girls & Boys

In the girls: Caroline (Mark's g'friend), Lisa (D's sister), Granny CS, Grandma H, Kirsten, Kim, Lynne H (K's mum), Emma, Anne CS (D's mum), Kathryn CS (D's godmum & Aunt)

The boys: Dougal (K's bro), Jamie (K's bro), Hamish (K's Dad), David, John (D's dad), Mark (D's bro)

The Wedding Party

Wedding Day

On 10 March 2007 I became Mrs Chappie. What a day it was! The weather was sensational with clear blue skies and views from our balcony across Lake Taupo and to the mountains beyond.

The boys spent the morning playing 9 holes of golf at Wairakei, while the girls went for a casual walk around the property and out to a rocky point on the lake front. Then it was into town for coffees and I began the long and arduous task of being ‘dolled up’. Hair coiffed, fake tan liberally applied, nails buffed and polished, make-up expertly applied and then finally the dress (well actually skirt and top). It was quite an experience and one I actually enjoyed. I had a wonderful attendant – Kim who shepherded me thru the process making sure I was not streaky or left hungry.

At 4ish Dad and Mum joined me in my room for a weepy hug then it was off along the long walk down the hall, out the verandah and out to the lawn where 17 family and friends were waiting. It was awesome so very awesome to see the people that mean so much to us waiting there and surrounding us as we said our vows. Both David and I looked our best (you’ll have to wait for the pics to see for yourself) and absolutely loved the day. We were very lucky to have D’s Granny and my Grandma contribute to our day by both saying something during the ceremony – we will treasure their words of wisdome.

Alexa was a good little girl and kept the ceremony light by making little noises including saying “Dad, Dad, Dad” during David’s vows. She loved all the attention, and I’m sure thought the whole day was all about her. I put her down to sleep at 7 and she slept thru the night waking only once briefly.

Meanwhile, we had a great evening with scrumptious food and wine. There was plenty for all, although David said he could have fitted in a small piece of chocolate wedding cake had that been arranged. David was given his wedding CD - full of songs selected by some of his friends and me. Following the meal Mum had some sparklers so we all trouped out to the deck lighting up the evening with swirls and sparks. It even dragged a neighbour to our door to check all was well.

This weekend coming we are having a larger gathering at Kiwi360, near Te Puke. It is a chance for our extended families and all our friends to get together to celebrate the recent nuptials and our return to NZ. We are looking forward to it and keen to catch up with so many folks.

First B'day

More shots from the first b'day. John and Hamish (the Grandads discussing when they should get Alexa her first car). Here I am showing Alexa her new toy - a baby walker that she loves. I had fun constructing it the night before. David helped Alexa blow out her one candle - and was also the one feeding her chocolate. Below - David asks Alexa to show him what she got for her birthday.