Thursday, May 31, 2018

Madagascar


I admit that I am somewhat embarrassed about all the traveling I have done over the last few months. Kenya in February, Adriatic cruise in March and a 2 week trip to Madagascar in May.  Yes I  admit that I most definitely have wanderlust! When my cousin Scott Boyle and his wife Cassie received their mission call to serve in Madagascar, I immediately started thinking of a trip there.  My plans were put on hold when all the missionaries were evacuated because of the plague!  Yes, the plague!!!  Luckily they were able to return a few months ago so my dreams of a trip to Madagascar were back in the plans.  Our daughter Mary agreed to be my travel buddy, tickets were purchased and we were off on a fantastic Mom-Daughter adventure.  
I have to talk about my cousins before I say anymore about the trip.  Scott Boyle is my 1st cousin.  His father was my mother's only brother.  Although raised in Monticello, Utah, he always felt connected to Arkansas and the family there.   We were at BYU at the same time, married at about the same time and have children who are about the same ages.  I have always admired him so much. And his wife Cassie is simply one of kindest, funnest, most loving and capable women I have ever known.  My mother adored her and Mary and I do too!
Staying with them was just perfect!  Comfortable apartment, a chauffeur, knowledgeable shopping buddy, plus fantastic food.  I could go on and on about Cassie's homemade bread, that in the words of one of the young missionaries, "has changed the face of the mission." 
They made us feel 'Tonga soa!" Welcome!
Thanks Elder and Sister Boyle!  You are simply the best and we love you! 

Wednesday, May 2, 2018

African Dresses!

Clemence, one of the Kenya Keys staff in Taru, operates a tailor shop. Naturally Carolyn and I had to go and have some skirts and dresses made.   The seamstress took careful measurements and spent a few days sewing for each of us.  John had sent me Isabella's measurements, as well, so that they could make a dress for her.  These dresses in traditional 'Duruma tribe' fabric are so fun! 
 Isabella's favorite part was that it has a full skirt making it a perfect dress for twirling around.  Makes me realize that she is definitely not a baby anymore.  We have a little girl now! 

Tulips, Ponies, and Carousels!

Last weekend we had a visit from these three. Unfortunately they missed the 80 degree weather we had last week but at least it didn't rain the entire time they were here.  We had a great outing to the Tulip Festival.

Isabella took time to stop and smell the 'tulips'. Or maybe try to pick the tulips!
She had her first pony ride....not a fan! 
But her first carousel ride was a different story.  She loved that! 
We surely enjoyed spending time with this little family!