Arrived safely!

Below is a quick note from my Dad from Wednesday night - they have also let me know that they are working on getting internet service and getting settled in their new home.  They sound great and said no problems driving so far :)
Love, Shireen


We have had a full day meeting with all the office staff and an interview with the Mission President.  President and Sister Runia picked us up at the airport and drove us to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge.  What a beautiful harbor and surrounding area.  President Runia gave us our area of work.  Our assignment is on the West side of the Blue Mountains in a small city named Armidale.  This is the North part of our mission, about a 6.5 hour drive from Sydney, and about a 3 hour drive from the Pacific Ocean.  We will be living in a two bedroom duplex house.  We will be working with one branch and a small cluster group that is about a 1.5 hour drive away from our home.  I have the assignment as the Branch President and Penny will assist me in my responsibilities, and she will be given a calling.

It is strange to have missed a complete day.  We left on Monday and arrived in Sydney on Wednesday - we never experienced Tuesday.  All we have met have been wonderful and helpful.  We have been made to feel so welcome and needed.  We love you all.  The Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is true. 

Love the Browns

Elder and Sister Brown at the Sydney Opera House 

Sydney Harbor Bridge 

Airport selfie! 

 Map of the mission

And they're off!

When my parents send me pictures and no specific text to include, I get to say whatever I want, right?  

Mom and Dad spent a week in the MTC in Provo, Utah last week.  Got a lot of good information, enjoyed some wonderful devotionals and, if I know my dad like I think I do, some ice cream at the BYU creamery.

We were all able to spend a little time together at Jeff's in Salt Lake - the whole family other than Gabe, who is on a mission in Cincinnati, OH.  Aren't we all so good looking?  

And they're off - they took a selfie (I'm still shocked) from the plane from LA to Sydney.  They left at about 10pm Pacific last night, and it is about a 15 hour flight, so they are still flying.  I wish I could get them to take an "after" picture, I'm guessing they won't look quite as bright eyed!  

I'll post an update once we hear where they are and how they're doing!  Looking forward to another 18 months of adventures with our missionaries.  

Love to you all, Shireen