Lots of changes for the Coopers

So I am few years out from my last post.  I am starting again (I never really wanted to stop). This turns into a great family diary that I  hope the kids can look at.

So this school year was a big one as we changed the kids to our neighborhood school.  It was a great decision.  Although we loved their other school it wasn't getting the kids where they needed to be academically.  And it is great being part of our neighborhood community.  The kids have friends that live just houses away.  And they LOVE that.  They run up and down the street to play with their friends.

That was a big change but they have done well.  Sylvie never missed a beat.  She has thrived in Kindergarten and is finishing the year reading on her own.  And Archie worked so hard this year on his reading and math.  I am amazed at his progress and so proud of the work he has done. 

Warm weather and dinners outside!

......And now the big news, Campbell has taken a new job that will move us to NZ!  Auckland to be exact.  We have been back in the states for 3 years and I can't believe it but we are leaving again.  We are now in May and will be leaving in July.  Campbell is really enjoying his new job and is getting our life lined up there.  We are excited to be near his family and our friends.  We are also excited about the schools and quality of life that we will have.  I am excited because I have never lived there and there are so many places I have wanted to explore.  Now we will have time to do that.  

At School Carnival

The kids are doing ok as we near this big move.  Archie is already sad to leave his friends and understands that we are leaving them.  Sylvie wants to go so she can swim in PE and get a dog.  

I am solo parenting it right now as Campbell is already traveling for work.  That has been hard and I feel for all those that have to do this on their own.  It is not easy on anyone.

Going for a walk....in our socks

I hope to continue working as an architect.  I love my current job and friends at work.  I will miss both dearly when we leave.  It is one of the best firms in the US and am so proud that I have been able to contribute to it.  I don't want to leave my friends and our work.

Enjoying sunshine with good friends

We are also sad to leave family and friends here.  We have just finally felt settled and started an new routine and school with the kids.  So it is hard to just leave when it feels like we weren't finished here.

Impromptu slide with some extra cardboard....kids thought they should wear the helmets!

Ultimately, this will be a great move for our family and we are excited.  At the moment, I just want to get through this hard part but then I remember that I don't want to rush our last weeks and wish it away.  I am nostalgic as the sunny weather is here and the city is so beautiful and scenic.  The mountains are visible with their snow still on top.  And everything is green as spring is just finishing.  

But we are keeping our house and pieces of our hearts will always be here.