Upbeat Communities

Our next location for our track placement was Derby. Which has also recently been referred to as The New Jerusalem or just simply Zion by one Ally Kay. It’s incredible to think that we will be moving there next week and it will change from being a destination we visit, talk about, think about moving to, and become our place. Woah.

It helps to know there are wonderful people already there, like these lovely ladies - Heili and Hannah who work with Upbeat Communities. During our stay, Kim and I got to help with a Community Fun Day, making boxes with kids, and I even got to try my hand at some face painting with proper nice paints and brushes. FUN! They are looking for volunteers in August and I’m so there.

the big three zero

This is Sarah.

Sarah is awesome (and will probably hate the above photo, even though she is gorgeous - ha).

Recently she had the privilege of joining Kim in Club Thirty and we had a little party to celebrate.

At this party there was cake, peggle, and barbies. Just your average turning thirty shindig! Sarah also celebrated with a girls weekend trip to Spain but I’m sure the majority of the fun was had right here…

On the road.

On the road.

Richard & Katy ♥

Richard & Katy ♥

Steve-O

Another important member of the Colechestor house was Steve!! What a guy. And if I’m not mistaken, recently married to Tina who he was waiting to arrive from the US when we stayed.

This particular photo, taken at their Sunday gathering really captures something of the man, and we enjoyed the meeting - so relaxed and fun, and such a diverse group of people. It was our last meal in the house and all our community lunch cooking skills paid off as we served one mean thai curry and chocolate brownie for dessert.

Mr Moses

Okay, so this little man was also a highlight of our time in C. Town. Just look at those cheeky eyes, rosebud lips and dungarees! Such a cutie.

Spending time with Richard, Katy and Moses gave me so insight into the joys of parenting. What do you do when your little boy decides to let out what at the time feels like a never ending piercing scream in the middle of the coffee shop, or to throw all the kitchen utensils (all the sharp ones safely on the bench top out of reach) around the room just for fun. Katy demonstrated so much patience and again and again the willingness to give up her own comfort or convenience so Moses could discover the fun of jumping in a puddle, or learn not to do something through repeated encouragement in a different direction, rather than a harsh word or raised tone.

When that time comes for us (hopefully it does one day!), I hope I can remember those little lessons from our short time with this beautiful family.

Turkish Coffee

Delicious.