The Helmer Family: A Trip Home for Me!

I still feel a little bit indulgent when I think about my trip back home. But, not that much. Maybe I was just a little bit homesick or maybe I just really needed a break from this little Aussie life! Whatever it was, I had a ticket and a husband that convinced me that he could handle things just fine without me. And he did. Everyone survived, got to majority of their activities, had clean uniforms most of the time, and had a whole lot of fun while I was gone for nearly 3 weeks!

On August 16, I left Sydney and flew 31 hours to Myrtle beach where I got to spend a few days with my parents, Trevor, Heather, and kids at the somewhat official "Pool Family Reunion." Even though, the other half of our family wasn't there. We had some great time on the beautiful Carolina Coast!

After Myrtle Beach, I went back to Greensboro, NC and stayed with my dear friend Abbey, who had just had twin girls. It was so much fun to see her and spend time with her family. It brought back so many memories of when I had Avery and Carson 8 years ago! I still don't know how I survived that first year!

Then, on to Raleigh where I got to spend time with Garrett's family and many wonderful friends. I did not stay nearly enough time there!

Next, I flew to SLC to see Justin and Erin. I was hoping that we could get Erin to go into labor before I left. Well, needless to say, it didn't happen. She was induced and had baby Oaklee on the day I left! It was still so much fun to see them and the kids! I also was able to meet up with a few dear friends that I hadn't seen in such a long time! It made it all worth it! Oh, and I shopped. Not just a little bit of shopping, but a whole lot of shopping! I had to buy an extra suitcase to get it all home! And my bags were so heavy that I literally fell over in the SLC Airport car park trying to get them to the curb! It was one of my most embarrassing moments ever! I was flat on my back like a turtle upside down on its shell!

Last, I flew to LA where Tracy picked me up from the airport and we had lunch at a Creperie in Longbeach with Whitney and Emily Jane. We stuffed ourselves and I did my best to convince Tracy to come and visit us! Kristie picked me up from Longbeach and we headed to Orange county where we got to get a way for a beautiful dinner on the beach in Laguna Beach. It has kind of been our tradition.

My last day I spent in Temecula trying to see as many friends and former neighbors as I could! It was a fantastic way to end my trip. I feel so blessed to have so many great friends! I loved seeing them and catching up!

And finally, after a wonderful ride back to the airport with Rachel, Kelly, and Julie, I had to go. I was excited to go "home." I was exhausted! I missed my family and my little Aussie life! It was an amazing trip that I enjoyed every minute of...just what I needed! My only regret was that I hardly took any pictures! When am I going to learn?