faraway friends come a'visiting

We had more visitors this week ... our friends Liz and Andrew who have stayed at every apartment and home we've had since we were married! And incredibly, they've either been living in Europe or Australia when they happen to "pop in" for a layover or a drive over from whichever airport they're stopping in to. It really is astonishing.
Liz and I met when we worked together at the youth hostel in Amsterdam in 2000, while Andrew was working at our sister youth hostel across town. Granted, Liz came to Amsterdam the second time because of Andrew but in the process we became kindred spirits which has stood the test of time and distance. She honored Sam and I by standing up as one of my bridesmaids at our wedding and we have kept in close contact over the years.
This time we finally were able to meet their wee son, Simon, and he was a charmer and a little gentleman the entire time. Sophie took to everyone quite comfortably as well and greatly enjoyed Simon's rolly-bell toys and little Simon himself.
Though ironically, it's been brutally cold this week, only letting up today to a balmy -20c. We were down to -38c the past few days and with the wind chill we were treated to -52c temperatures!! It's been quite a shock to the system, to say the least, but at least this a rarity here and not the norm.
We're so glad they came, in between flights, family visits, and heartbreaking family tragedy, and by their insistence to make time and plans to come our way once again they continue to be faithful and very much loved friends.

But it's only fair that we come a'visiting to your home in Australia next time, don't you think?!