First Post!

Hello! Just thought I'd give 'blogging' a whirl to keep everyone posted on what is happening in New Zealand! I'm trying to figure out how to change the background, etc - so please bear with me while I have some growing pains. ;-)

Well, 2011 has been such a rapid whirlwind for us - Gretchen Klara Maria was born on the 13th of January - Edan's birthday! She is such a fun addition to our family - such a sweet happy girl! Mom arrived the evening of the 12th, so she arrived just in time - which was absolutely fantastic! Even Jen made it down from Taupo in time for Gretchen's birth.

In February we celebrated Jen's and Sam's wedding - it was a beautiful day and everyone had such a wonderful time. Welcome to the family Sam! Couldn't ask for anyone better for Jen! :) Both Dad and Daniel were in New Zealand for the wonderful event as well.

Beautiful bride!

Being cute is so exhausting! 

The "Thorstad" family

In March, mom and dad flew back to cold Minnesota to start their calving season. Daniel went down to the south island and spent some time hunting with his college buddy Ryan, and their NZ mates down there. He brought back some venison and crayfish for us to enjoy, which was yummy! :)

Two months old - by Belle's 2nd birthday cake!

April has come before I could even blink! Gretchen is 12 weeks now - oh where has the time gone? She's such a wonderful baby - she's fully discovered her hands and loves to put them in her mouth! She also enjoys reaching out and grabbing, as well as playing with her musical gym and her stuffed animals on her bouncy chair. (Tigger is her favorite!) She has a very similar smile to her brother and we are constantly reminded of him when we look at her - which is really nice. We wish he was here with us to enjoy her as well, but we know he is here in spirit everyday. :)

Dan's crayfish

Cheeky monkey! 

It's coming into autumn here now, leaves are starting to drop and the air has a bit of a chill in it. Netball season has also started and I am playing for the Te Kawau social team. We had our first game (grading game) on Saturday, and we had a blast together as a team. Despite that we lost 25-39, but nevermind - it was very fun to get out and play. (PS To all my American friends, here's what netball is: NZ Netball) It's a very fun game!

Well, until next time... :)