Visiting Flagstaff, AZ

A couple of days ago we went to Flagstaff to enjoy the view from the San Francisco Peaks. The scenery was amazing as we looked down from 11000 feet on the valley below (at 7000). The temps were cool at 48 degrees. It was a good preparation for Aberdeen; when we arrive in less than a month, the temp will be about 52. Quite cool and only getting colder.
Take a close look at the Elk. Erin has good timing or bad depending on one's perspective. We purchased our plane tickets today. We leave on the 18th to begin our three years there. Everything is coming together nicely. Also, we have created a portfolio at the Kodak website. If anyone is interested in receiving more pictures than what we post here, please let us know.

Trials always come

Our preparation for Aberdeen had gone quite smooth until recently. In the last week, though, we have sat in limbo since our visas were mailed to the wrong address. We listed my parents' address as our corrospondence address, but the British consulate overlooked the address. We found out Wed that all this happened. On Thurs the consulate contacted us to correct the problem. Well, on Friday after several days of concern, we received our visas in KC. The only item left is to buy plane tickets. It is amazing how few problems have arisen in this process. The Lord is truly good and does meet all of our needs. His hand has guided this move, which brings comfort even when struggles do arise.
Our time in AZ is nearly over. It has been fun and relaxing. Erin has enjoyed seeing all her family and friends (as I have also). The realitively free schedule has allowed me much time to study, which was certianly needed. Next Wed we return to KC where we will spend the last few days before moving to Aberdeen.

What's that? SNAKE!!

Our day was typical: go to the pool and play with the dogs. When we arrived, though, a 4 foot blacktailed rattle snake had a different idea. As Ken (Erin's dad) got out of the vehicle, he heard it rattle. No problem for us humans and Bailey; we can just walk around it. But Jake, since he is not too bright, likes to attack snakes or anything that looks like one. So, we called a snake remover who came out, caught the snake, and took it about 1/4 mile away to release it. The snake had just eatten, and we could see the bulge in its skin. It was quite an adventure.
On a different note, we were approved for our visas, which means that we can stay in Scotland for 3 years. It won't be long before we arrive in Scotland. Also, here are a couple pictures of Sedona.

Now in Sedona, AZ

We have now made it to Sedona, AZ where we will spend 3 weeks. Everything we own is in boxes in my parents' basement. Neither of us are employed now, which reminds me of our first days of marraige. For 6 weeks we will live out of suitcases. It is an odd feeling being homeless. Companies do not know what to do when we call to tell them our address has changed to Aberdeen, Scotland. So far, they pause and say they will have to check procedure for how to list our address.
Since we have no pets, it is quite enjoyable to play with our parents' dogs and cats. Erin's parents have two Golden Retrievers, who run the house. Jake is full of energy, always has a ball in his mouth, and expects one to play with him at all times. Bailey is the exact opposite. He lays around, rarely chases the ball, and never gets very far from people. The cat does her own thing.
We have gone to the pool several times to play with the dogs. Jake loves jumping into the pool after the ball, and Bailey chases Jake around the pool. Bailey doesn't swim well, and he is afraid to jump into the pool.














We have spent some time visiting family and friends. This usually involves eating! We also have had plenty of time to relax.