Saturday, February 28, 2015

Karratha Branch Changes

We had our branch conference in February and Clinton was called as the new branch president in Karratha. We had mixed emotions about it, obviously we knew what this would entail for our family...Clinton at meetings and visiting people throughout the week, me sitting by myself at church again etc but we also know of the blessings that come with making that sacrifice. We can't deny the blessings that came to our family when Clinton was Bishop in Perth and the way our family grew spiritually through the experience. The branch is much smaller than the ward Clinton served in last time so that made it a little less daunting, plus Clinton has some experience this time around. We felt a lot of love and support from the Mission President and his councillors when Clinton was called. The previous branch president, Bryan Pilkington, did a great job and was much loved by the branch - big shoes to fill!

From the left Clinton's Exec Sec Arty Dimitrov, 2nd Councillor Reagan Erickson, Clinton, Branch Clerk Kent Baker, 1st Councillor Stephen Clarke and the previous branch president Bryan Pilkington. 
 The group with President Brown and President Lindsay
 Clinton and his councillors 
 We tried to take a decent family photo but it was after three hours of church and it was hot outside! A small tender mercy was that Alissa decided to stay in nursery that day and has ever since. She loves her nursery class with Amy...I'm so happy about that! 

 My gorgeous friend Emi dropped this 'Branch President's Survival Kit' over the day after Clinton was called. 
Sienna and Alissa thought they were treats for them!
Whats Inside:
Door Stop - because your door is now always open
Mints - to remind you that you are worth a mint to your congregation
Rubber Band - you will need to be flexible
Cotton Wool Ball- to cushion the rough road ahead
Crayons - to help colour everyone's world bright
Bubblegum - everything works better when everyone sticks together
Marbles - to replace the ones you're sure to lose
Candle - to light the darkness
Bandaid - to heal the pain and suffering in our branch
Tissues - to wipe away tears of joy and sadness 
Life Savers - all the times other people need your help 
Eraser - to remind you everyone makes mistakes and they can be erased
Jewel - to remind you how valuable you are 
Puzzle - to remind you that you are a very important piece in Heavenly Father's plan 
Pack of nuts - Just remember every branch has got em!  

Monday, February 2, 2015

First Day of School 2015

On the 2nd of February, Harrison started year three and Sienna had her first day of Kindergarten. Sienna now goes to school every Tuesday and Thursday and every second Monday. She has a wonderful teacher, Mrs Bosman (Mrs Bozzie) and her assistant Mrs Aston and has settled into school very well. She cries a bit when I drop her off but is fine once I've gone and happy when I pick her up. She's made lots of friends and enjoys making things to bring home for me. 

Harrison has had a harder time this year as his teacher, Mrs King, has a very different teaching style to the one he's used to. He's managed to adapt though and is very happy to be in Michael's class. 

Here are the first day of school pictures...

 My big girl ready for her first day of school 
 Amy took this photo of Harry and Michael in their classroom
There were lots of activities set up in Sienna's classroom on her first day- she chose to do this threading activity with me


 When we picked Sienna up Alissa ran straight to her to give her a hug!