Blue-winged Teal...

Another family of ducks visited our pond recently. (Thursday, 5th April.) These are blue-winged teals and they spent the whole morning paddling around the pond. There were two males and a female in this little family. :)

 The family of blue-winged teals early on a frosty morning.

 The same ducks later that day.

Flying away from our pond.

Gifts from Granny...

Mom's first day in Indiana was a pretty low-key affair. We spent the day resting and relaxing at home, and enjoying hot cups of rooibos tea. Mom also unpacked her suitcase full of gifts from the family back in Cape Town. It was as if it was Christmas in April. Riaan was so excited to see what Granny had brought with her! :) Thanks to all who sent something from South Africa to us here in Indiana!

 Mom brought over an antique car transporter that belonged to my late great-uncle Peter.

 Riaan has already had a lot of fun playing with it!

 New Thomas the Tank Engine trains!

 3D printed toys and a xylophone. He's a happy boy!

Reading a book with Granny.

Granny Arrives...

My Mom arrived for a three-week visit on Tuesday, 3rd April. She departed yesterday, after a wonderful time connecting with her grandchildren, meeting friends and family, and seeing many sights and sounds of southern Indiana. The next few blog posts will document her time with us in Indiana. Here are some photos of her arrival at Indianapolis International Airport very late on that stormy Tuesday night.

 Our chalkboard at home.

 Candace made a South African flag cushion cover and we had a basket of goodies ready for Mom's visit. :)

 Riaan inspects an Indy Car while we wait for Granny to arrive at Indianapolis International Airport.

 Granny's here!

 Selfie at the airport.

Snuggling Eliza at 01h00 in the morning after we arrived home. It was a late night!

Spring Fun...

We had a rather rare warm day earlier this month. (3rd April.) This spring has certainly been much colder than usual, and we even had snow just a week ago! And so when the weather is warmer, we take the opportunity to go and have fun outside. Riaan was out in his Oakiwear suit, having a blast splashing in puddles, chasing bubbles, and digging in the mud! :)

 Chasing bubbles...

And playing in the mud! :)

Easter Sunday...

We spent a lovely Easter Sunday with our friends at church. (Sunday, 1st April.) We had a yummy breakfast before the service and then enjoyed the message and fellowship. We decided not to dress up for Easter, but instead wore t-shirts supporting Charity: Water, an organisation that brings clean water to communities around the world. It was founded in 2006 by a former Mercy Shipper, Scott Harrison. Our decision was inspired by the Forget the Frock movement, and you can check out their website here. :)

 Eliza wore the same dress Candace wore for her first Easter.

Family photo prior to leaving home. It didn't work out too well!

Easter Egg Hunt at Shakamak...

We took Riaan (and Eliza) to the Easter egg hunt at Shakamak State Park last Saturday. (31st March.) Little man enjoyed the Easter egg hunt, despite being rather crowded, and we then had a lovely time playing at one of the fun playgrounds. :)

 Riaan was a bit uncertain of the Easter Bunny.

 Children (and parents) search for Easter eggs.

 Riaan hunting for eggs.

 Riaan's little egg collection.

 Happy boy on the see-saw.

 Enjoying the swing.

State Parks have lovely playgrounds for children.

Seder Meal...

We commemorated the Passover and how it points to Jesus with a lovely Seder meal on the evening of Good Friday, 30th March. It was lovely to meet together as close friends and remember what Jesus did for us on the Cross - as well as how significant the Old Testament scriptures are in pointing to the Messiah. :)

 Eliza snoozing on the couch.

 Fellowship around the table.

 The Passover Seder plate.

My dinner plate. The food was delicious!