Half of my pictures are up, in slideshow form, to the direct right of this post. You can click on them to go to my picasa web album and look at them in larger form.
Also, the movies of my bungy and skydive are at the bottom of the page.
I will put up the other half when I get to Williston (ahhh! more traveling!) tomorrow, as I'm staying in Fargo with TC tonight (and celebrating his and Kelci's engagement!!!)
Also, I plan on adding a few photos to each post, and maybe adding some more details, so you can better see what I did and don't have to guess what each photo is!
Anyways, a little update since I got home:
I got home at 12:30 am, and was exhausted. But I couldn't sleep. I felt like I needed to do something, so I went on my computer and just freaked until 6 am. Then I slept until 4 pm, went to Red Cross EMT training from 6-8, came home, couldn't fall asleep until about 2 am, then slept until noon. My schedule is still way off.
Well, I gotta get going to Fargo so I can see the two lovebirds...
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Back in da city.
I'm home.
After 28.5 hours en route, I have made it here safely.
and i'm hungry and tired, so this is all i'm typing.
After 28.5 hours en route, I have made it here safely.
and i'm hungry and tired, so this is all i'm typing.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
my last day...
So my flight to Auckland from CHC went without issue. I stayed in the same hostel as a girl I met before so we met up and hung out for the past few days.
We went shopping a little bit and traveled around Auckland. The hostel I stayed at was crap. really crap.
Last night we went and saw the Dark Knight at the IMAX and then had a long discussion on it on the walk home. it was grand.
Then we got back to our room. And there needs to be a little bit of background to this: our hostel has an apartment set up where there is a main room with a kitchen and couches and then 4 dorm rooms. 3 of the dorm rooms were filled with guy. the other had my friend and i. These guys had been pretty loud every night but really paid no attention to us.
Back to the story. We walk in to all of the guys looking at us and laughing. Whatever, walk on by and I get to the door and look back to see one of them completely naked on the couch. So i shake my head and go into my room. 30 minutes later when i go to brush my teeth, he is still naked.
Hostel life is definitely always a new experience...
My plane leaves at 4 today and I am so torn. I want to get back to mpls and see my friends, the kids i nanny for, and see my family, but being here is the best experience I've ever had. I have never been happier than in the past month, and it's hard for me to leave that.
We went shopping a little bit and traveled around Auckland. The hostel I stayed at was crap. really crap.
Last night we went and saw the Dark Knight at the IMAX and then had a long discussion on it on the walk home. it was grand.
Then we got back to our room. And there needs to be a little bit of background to this: our hostel has an apartment set up where there is a main room with a kitchen and couches and then 4 dorm rooms. 3 of the dorm rooms were filled with guy. the other had my friend and i. These guys had been pretty loud every night but really paid no attention to us.
Back to the story. We walk in to all of the guys looking at us and laughing. Whatever, walk on by and I get to the door and look back to see one of them completely naked on the couch. So i shake my head and go into my room. 30 minutes later when i go to brush my teeth, he is still naked.
Hostel life is definitely always a new experience...
My plane leaves at 4 today and I am so torn. I want to get back to mpls and see my friends, the kids i nanny for, and see my family, but being here is the best experience I've ever had. I have never been happier than in the past month, and it's hard for me to leave that.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Still in Christchurch....
Bought my plane ticket to head back to auckland today, and i leave at 11:00 tomorrow morning.
I had a great day today, spent a lot of time(the whole day) with a friend from atlanta. Went to two markets, played frisbee, walked through the botanical gardens (kind of), saw a movie (smart people), got lost, then went out to eat at Mickey D's, and sat around and talked at a great bar. Overall, good day, albeit a bit cold at times.
I said goodbye to the Irish couple this morning. Then I said goodbye to my friends from Atlanta, and I just said goodbye to the English couple. It's a weird day as I am so sad to see all of them go, yet excited because I've met these really great people that I can go visit whenever I want.
Anyways, I really need some rest, so I will, hopefully, update one more time before I leave for home, then update with pictures once I get there!
I had a great day today, spent a lot of time(the whole day) with a friend from atlanta. Went to two markets, played frisbee, walked through the botanical gardens (kind of), saw a movie (smart people), got lost, then went out to eat at Mickey D's, and sat around and talked at a great bar. Overall, good day, albeit a bit cold at times.
I said goodbye to the Irish couple this morning. Then I said goodbye to my friends from Atlanta, and I just said goodbye to the English couple. It's a weird day as I am so sad to see all of them go, yet excited because I've met these really great people that I can go visit whenever I want.
Anyways, I really need some rest, so I will, hopefully, update one more time before I leave for home, then update with pictures once I get there!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Back in Christchurch
Left Lake Tekapo this morning after a very full rest (about 11 hours, I'd say). I'm still pretty sick, so I'm hoping this ends soon (the sickness, not my trip!!) I didn't really do anything except play card games last night.
Had a late start this morning (we got to leave at 8:30!) then headed to a salmon farm (actually i think that was yesterday, oh well!) which was neat.
I don't really like christchurch, but there's a bar i'm heading to tonight with some friends that's supposed to be great. The Irish couple i'm friends with is leaving tomorrow and I am so sad. The english couple is still here, though, so that should be good, and I'm meeting up with some friends from Atlanta, too, before I leave for Auckland again and then head home. I am so sad to leave this place and this way of life!
Had a late start this morning (we got to leave at 8:30!) then headed to a salmon farm (actually i think that was yesterday, oh well!) which was neat.
I don't really like christchurch, but there's a bar i'm heading to tonight with some friends that's supposed to be great. The Irish couple i'm friends with is leaving tomorrow and I am so sad. The english couple is still here, though, so that should be good, and I'm meeting up with some friends from Atlanta, too, before I leave for Auckland again and then head home. I am so sad to leave this place and this way of life!
Friday, August 8, 2008
Life is amazing at 12000 feet!
I have so much to update!!!
Lets begin witih Wednesday: I woke up at 7 am after getting home at 4 to see if i could cancel my milford sound trip (for various reasons, one being that my camera battery had died and what's the point if i can't take pictures?) I accidently took my bedsheets with me when i checked out of the hostel, so i was slightly embarassed. Luckily, i got it canceled, walked back home, and slept until about 9, which at that time I decided to go skydiving with these two sisters from Coventry, England. About two hours later I was in a plane, strapped to a guy with a backpack, jumping out 12000 feet above the ground. It was the most amazing experience of my life. It was so gorgeous, the pictures i got do it no justice. My free fall was for 45 seconds, but felt like no time at all! Don't worry, I got the DVD of it to prove that i did it. I spent the rest of the night with soem friends I've made from Atlanta, playing cards and chatting.
Thursday: Left Queenstown unwillingly, and continued on to Dunedin, which was where I was planning on studying abroad. A gorgeous little town. I went on a tour of the Cadbury chocolate factory which was awesome, but would have been better if i liked chocolate!!! They even had a chocolate waterfall! (which wasn't as cool as it sounds) I BBQ'd with some friends (an Irish couple and an English couple) and it was great = bread, buns, enough sausages for everyone to have 2.5, and a burger and chips for under 4 NZD each! amazing. Went and played pool with the bus driver for about three hours which was really fun, except that I kept getting worse as the night went on.
Today: I started the morning by running up the worlds steepest hill (in Dunedin). It was tiring and my legs/butt hurt. I'm in Lake Tekapo now, but there's really nothing to do here because it's winter, but it really is gorgeous. We stopped at these cool boulders on our way in, and saw some beautfiul lakes: one thing about NZ isi that all the river and lakes are this gorgeous green/blue and I feel like I'm at the sea, no matter where I'm at!
I think we're going ice skating soon, and I'm running out of internet time, so I better get going. I leave so soon and I am definitely not ready for it!
Lets begin witih Wednesday: I woke up at 7 am after getting home at 4 to see if i could cancel my milford sound trip (for various reasons, one being that my camera battery had died and what's the point if i can't take pictures?) I accidently took my bedsheets with me when i checked out of the hostel, so i was slightly embarassed. Luckily, i got it canceled, walked back home, and slept until about 9, which at that time I decided to go skydiving with these two sisters from Coventry, England. About two hours later I was in a plane, strapped to a guy with a backpack, jumping out 12000 feet above the ground. It was the most amazing experience of my life. It was so gorgeous, the pictures i got do it no justice. My free fall was for 45 seconds, but felt like no time at all! Don't worry, I got the DVD of it to prove that i did it. I spent the rest of the night with soem friends I've made from Atlanta, playing cards and chatting.
Thursday: Left Queenstown unwillingly, and continued on to Dunedin, which was where I was planning on studying abroad. A gorgeous little town. I went on a tour of the Cadbury chocolate factory which was awesome, but would have been better if i liked chocolate!!! They even had a chocolate waterfall! (which wasn't as cool as it sounds) I BBQ'd with some friends (an Irish couple and an English couple) and it was great = bread, buns, enough sausages for everyone to have 2.5, and a burger and chips for under 4 NZD each! amazing. Went and played pool with the bus driver for about three hours which was really fun, except that I kept getting worse as the night went on.
Today: I started the morning by running up the worlds steepest hill (in Dunedin). It was tiring and my legs/butt hurt. I'm in Lake Tekapo now, but there's really nothing to do here because it's winter, but it really is gorgeous. We stopped at these cool boulders on our way in, and saw some beautfiul lakes: one thing about NZ isi that all the river and lakes are this gorgeous green/blue and I feel like I'm at the sea, no matter where I'm at!
I think we're going ice skating soon, and I'm running out of internet time, so I better get going. I leave so soon and I am definitely not ready for it!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
BUNGEE!!!
Yesterday I went bungee jumping. I got the DVD of it so people will actually believe that I did it.
How many people can say that?!?!
Got to Queenstown and it's so beautiful. I could stay here forever, with the mountains and mirror lakes. I've taken so many pictures the past few days it's ridiculous. The lakes here have the blue-green of the carribean. it's beyond spectacular.
I went on a bar crawl last night with my bus, which was amazingly fun. Nothing more to be said about that :)
Don't tell my mom, but I'm going skydiving in 45 minutes.
How many people can say that?!?!
Got to Queenstown and it's so beautiful. I could stay here forever, with the mountains and mirror lakes. I've taken so many pictures the past few days it's ridiculous. The lakes here have the blue-green of the carribean. it's beyond spectacular.
I went on a bar crawl last night with my bus, which was amazingly fun. Nothing more to be said about that :)
Don't tell my mom, but I'm going skydiving in 45 minutes.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Heli-hike and glaciers
Went out last night on the brewery tour, which was great because of all the beer and great food! I filled myself up to the brim! I hung out with these two guys from Atlanta most of the night and had a mighty swell time.
Woke up early and got on the bus. Stopped in a gold mining town (Ross) and learned how to pan for gold, then bought a beautiful hand carved jade necklace.
Our bus driver got pulled over by the cops, so that cut a little into our time, but it turned out okay. He's a swell guy.
Got to Franz-Josef and planned the Heli-hike. AMAZING. Took a 15 minute helicopter tour of the glacier and mountains (freaky! i kept thinking that everythign was closer than what it was and thought we were going to crash!!). We then landed on the glacier and took a 3 hour hike aroudn it. It is, by far, the most amazing experience of my life. The helicopter ride back down was amazing also. I can't even describe the greatness of this experience.
I'm just on my way to head to the pub with a few girls I've been staying with the past few days and to meet up with the Irish friends I've made.
This is the best experience of my life. I wish I could write down all the reasons why I love Enzed, but it would be endless. My mind can't even comprehend how amazing this is for me. I am, by far, the happiest person in the world right now!
Woke up early and got on the bus. Stopped in a gold mining town (Ross) and learned how to pan for gold, then bought a beautiful hand carved jade necklace.
Our bus driver got pulled over by the cops, so that cut a little into our time, but it turned out okay. He's a swell guy.
Got to Franz-Josef and planned the Heli-hike. AMAZING. Took a 15 minute helicopter tour of the glacier and mountains (freaky! i kept thinking that everythign was closer than what it was and thought we were going to crash!!). We then landed on the glacier and took a 3 hour hike aroudn it. It is, by far, the most amazing experience of my life. The helicopter ride back down was amazing also. I can't even describe the greatness of this experience.
I'm just on my way to head to the pub with a few girls I've been staying with the past few days and to meet up with the Irish friends I've made.
This is the best experience of my life. I wish I could write down all the reasons why I love Enzed, but it would be endless. My mind can't even comprehend how amazing this is for me. I am, by far, the happiest person in the world right now!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
A lot of catching up to do!
On Friday I walked around Wellington with the girls I met from London, then we headed to the rugby game (Wellington v Hawkes Bay). It was a beautiful stadium and I had a wonderful time. We went out and had a fun time. Some random guy told me he loved me, so I didn't stick around too long and went to bed somewhat early.
Woke up and almost missed the bus to the ferry! got on the ferry, which was way less turbulent and took a good nap. Got to Picton and the Magic bus was not there. Ended up not getting there until 5 hours later, so I got to meet my bus mates pretty well. And I ate subway (BARF). haha, oh well. Got to Nelson in time for the All Blacks (NZ) v Wallabies (OZ) rugby match, which was excellent at the local bar. Some guy there told me I would make the perfect wife and tried to convince me to stay in New Zealand and get residency and marry him. Nope. I told him I wasn't getting married for at least another 5 years. oh well. A bunch of the poeple on the bus are Irish, so I've been hearing a lot of riddles and Irish jokes, which I've really been enjoying. They are trying to teach me some Irish, but I'm no good at it, but they're no good at Ojibwe, so it makes sense. Stopped at a rainforest and walked to a secluded beach, saw seals, and saw pancake rocks today, and am on my way to go on a brewery tour in Greymouth, so I am pretty excited.
My camera died, but someone took pictures for me and is going to put them on a disc, so thats okay. I'm charging it right now!
Tomorrow I am going on a heli-hike which they fly me to the top of a glacier (Franz Joseph), then we hike down! i am so excited!
I ended up not meeting up with someone that I was going to in Wellington, but I had a blast of a time anyways.
p.s. Mirah bella- I have been meaning to send you a postcard, but haven't quite got to it yet... but I want you to know that when you get a wee bit older, I am taking you here, just as my auntie took me to the bahamas... It's the best place in the world and you would love it. I can't wait to see you again my dear.
Woke up and almost missed the bus to the ferry! got on the ferry, which was way less turbulent and took a good nap. Got to Picton and the Magic bus was not there. Ended up not getting there until 5 hours later, so I got to meet my bus mates pretty well. And I ate subway (BARF). haha, oh well. Got to Nelson in time for the All Blacks (NZ) v Wallabies (OZ) rugby match, which was excellent at the local bar. Some guy there told me I would make the perfect wife and tried to convince me to stay in New Zealand and get residency and marry him. Nope. I told him I wasn't getting married for at least another 5 years. oh well. A bunch of the poeple on the bus are Irish, so I've been hearing a lot of riddles and Irish jokes, which I've really been enjoying. They are trying to teach me some Irish, but I'm no good at it, but they're no good at Ojibwe, so it makes sense. Stopped at a rainforest and walked to a secluded beach, saw seals, and saw pancake rocks today, and am on my way to go on a brewery tour in Greymouth, so I am pretty excited.
My camera died, but someone took pictures for me and is going to put them on a disc, so thats okay. I'm charging it right now!
Tomorrow I am going on a heli-hike which they fly me to the top of a glacier (Franz Joseph), then we hike down! i am so excited!
I ended up not meeting up with someone that I was going to in Wellington, but I had a blast of a time anyways.
p.s. Mirah bella- I have been meaning to send you a postcard, but haven't quite got to it yet... but I want you to know that when you get a wee bit older, I am taking you here, just as my auntie took me to the bahamas... It's the best place in the world and you would love it. I can't wait to see you again my dear.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Landslides and Washouts
Yesterday was a long day.
I was really excited to go to Kaikoura, and then we almost got stranded there. The roads were all washed out (i'm pretty sure they became rivers at some parts) but luckily we got through finally at 3 (I was supposed to leave at 8) and made it to the ferry to Wellington.
The ferry was huge. It was bad weather, so I almost got seasick, but I didn't. The ferry had a cinema, cafe, lounge, arcade, and was absolutely beautiful. Part of the "entertainment on board" was a "crazy Irishman" getting his foot stuck in an armrest :)
After arriving in Wellington I checked into my hostel and then went out with some of the girls that I met from my trip (from the UK and Ireland). We went to a few slow bars (including the base one, where Faviano proceded to annoy me from the last night I met him) and then went to one with this great live band, the noodles. A few creepy old men hit on me, to which I pushed them aside, and then me and this Argentinian guy danced latino style to 500 Miles by the Proclaimers. It was amazing.
I slept in late this morning, then just wandered the city again. Tonight I am going to a rugby game (yay!!!!) and then going out again, maybe meeting up with someone later on.... I leave tomorrow morning at 8 back for the south island. woo for glacier climbing and the milford sound!!
i can't believe i have less than two weeks left.... i don't think i'm ready to leave!
I was really excited to go to Kaikoura, and then we almost got stranded there. The roads were all washed out (i'm pretty sure they became rivers at some parts) but luckily we got through finally at 3 (I was supposed to leave at 8) and made it to the ferry to Wellington.
The ferry was huge. It was bad weather, so I almost got seasick, but I didn't. The ferry had a cinema, cafe, lounge, arcade, and was absolutely beautiful. Part of the "entertainment on board" was a "crazy Irishman" getting his foot stuck in an armrest :)
After arriving in Wellington I checked into my hostel and then went out with some of the girls that I met from my trip (from the UK and Ireland). We went to a few slow bars (including the base one, where Faviano proceded to annoy me from the last night I met him) and then went to one with this great live band, the noodles. A few creepy old men hit on me, to which I pushed them aside, and then me and this Argentinian guy danced latino style to 500 Miles by the Proclaimers. It was amazing.
I slept in late this morning, then just wandered the city again. Tonight I am going to a rugby game (yay!!!!) and then going out again, maybe meeting up with someone later on.... I leave tomorrow morning at 8 back for the south island. woo for glacier climbing and the milford sound!!
i can't believe i have less than two weeks left.... i don't think i'm ready to leave!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Start of the bus...
Last night I went to the hostel bar with one of my dorm mates, where I saw a guy on a 15 foot unicycle juggle. Then my mate won a rock paper scissors championship (I got like 6th place) and got free drinks, which he spent on me, so I got a lot of free drinks last night. He also offered to buy my dinner, but I politely declined.
The bus left at 8 this morning, so I got up and ready to go at like 7:30, but I didn't sleep well last night, so it feels like I've been up for days. Which I kind of have been. The bus ride went well. The bus driver tells stories and gives lots of info, and drives to lots of fun areas. I saw a bunch of newborn lambs, which have to be the cutest thing you could imagine!
There are horrible storms in the area (don't worry, i'm safe!) and lots of roads are washed out or have been hit by landslides, so hopefully this doesn't cause any problems for me.
I am in a little town called Kaikoura, which usually has great seal, dolphin, and whale watching, and sea kayaking amoung them, but since the weather is horrendous, I only got to see a few seals and nothing else. Just more of a reason to come back during the summer months!
Anyways, I just enjoyed a big hunk of fresh fish and chips, which really hit the spot after walking in the torrential rain for a half hour. Fresh fish is now my favorite thing I could ever imagine.
I realized I lost a pair of pants (my comfy yoga ones) so I'm kinda disappointed, but that's okay, because I can always buy more!
I came to the conclusion on the bus today that I need to do something more influential with my life (yeah, I've been saying that for almost forever, but I really mean it). I am pretty sure I am going to try to go to somewhere in Africa or India. We'll see where life takes me...
The bus left at 8 this morning, so I got up and ready to go at like 7:30, but I didn't sleep well last night, so it feels like I've been up for days. Which I kind of have been. The bus ride went well. The bus driver tells stories and gives lots of info, and drives to lots of fun areas. I saw a bunch of newborn lambs, which have to be the cutest thing you could imagine!
There are horrible storms in the area (don't worry, i'm safe!) and lots of roads are washed out or have been hit by landslides, so hopefully this doesn't cause any problems for me.
I am in a little town called Kaikoura, which usually has great seal, dolphin, and whale watching, and sea kayaking amoung them, but since the weather is horrendous, I only got to see a few seals and nothing else. Just more of a reason to come back during the summer months!
Anyways, I just enjoyed a big hunk of fresh fish and chips, which really hit the spot after walking in the torrential rain for a half hour. Fresh fish is now my favorite thing I could ever imagine.
I realized I lost a pair of pants (my comfy yoga ones) so I'm kinda disappointed, but that's okay, because I can always buy more!
I came to the conclusion on the bus today that I need to do something more influential with my life (yeah, I've been saying that for almost forever, but I really mean it). I am pretty sure I am going to try to go to somewhere in Africa or India. We'll see where life takes me...
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
In Christchurch
So I arrived at my hostel in Christchurch at about 10:30 last night and was exhausted. So I went to bed.
When I woke up, I found 5 guys in my dorm with me, so, being me, the first thing I hoped for was that they were all cute guys, but I was slightly disappointed. Oh well. There's hope for me yet (maybe in Wellington hehe).
I walked around Christchurch this morning for an hour or so, and it is a gorgeous city. My hostel is right outside of a beautiful cathedral.
I also found out yesterday that one of my best friends is engaged, so that was very exciting news! I have another wedding to help plan and pick out dresses for! yay! I'm glad I had a year off of weddings so that I can be excited about this one!
I hear that my Mirah Belle has 2 teeth now and I am so excited to see her and spend time with her. I think about her "like all the time. It's absolutely ridiculous" :)
Anyways, I'm gonna find some stuff to do around here and then venture out some more.
When I woke up, I found 5 guys in my dorm with me, so, being me, the first thing I hoped for was that they were all cute guys, but I was slightly disappointed. Oh well. There's hope for me yet (maybe in Wellington hehe).
I walked around Christchurch this morning for an hour or so, and it is a gorgeous city. My hostel is right outside of a beautiful cathedral.
I also found out yesterday that one of my best friends is engaged, so that was very exciting news! I have another wedding to help plan and pick out dresses for! yay! I'm glad I had a year off of weddings so that I can be excited about this one!
I hear that my Mirah Belle has 2 teeth now and I am so excited to see her and spend time with her. I think about her "like all the time. It's absolutely ridiculous" :)
Anyways, I'm gonna find some stuff to do around here and then venture out some more.
Monday, July 28, 2008
More Planning!
I slept all day and all night yesterday. I think I needed the 16 hours of sleep I got. I'm still sick, so it felt pretty good to catch up on some good sleep.
I've spent all of today either on the phone or internet planning the rest of my trip. So far, this is what I have planned:
Fly to Christchurch at 8 pm, stay the night.
Stay in Christchurch for the day
Leave Christchurch on Wednesday and head to Kaikoura
Leave Kaikoura on Thursday and head back to Wellington
Leave Wellington on Saturday for Nelson
Stay in Nelson then leave for Greymouth on Sunday
Stay in Greymouth then head to Franz Joseph (hike the glacier!!).
Stay in Franz Joseph on Monday and head to Queenstown.
On the 6th and 7th I will go to Milford sound and Catlins, then make my way to Dunedin.
Stay in Dunedin on the 8th and head to Lake Tekapo
Leave Lake Tekapo on the 9th for Christchurch, then head back up to Auckland/Bay of Islands to hopefully visit with Angela (a relative) for the 9/10 or something, then stay in Auckland until I leave on the 13th.
Ahhhhh! I have a full rest of my trip! I am so excited!
I am hoping my visit to Wellington is worthwhile. I am excited to spend time with someone I met there (Chatta and Sara - I want to talk to you so bad to tell you of this new adventure!). I am to the point where I feel if I don't go back, I might be asking myself later why I didn't... after all, I have nothing to lose by going there, but everything to gain!
I hope I will still be able to visit Angela, as there was a storm that hit the Bay of Islands (where she lives) that was the biggest in the past 15 years, and I hear that it's flooded. I hope her and her family are safe, and that I will be able to meet this part of my family.
Anyways, I have more reservations to make and hostels to book, so I better get to that. I hope to call Sara soon so we can chit chat (I spend too much money on the phone, hehe) and I don't really know what time it is/have Chatta's number in Sweden, so I'll save my chit chat with her for later...
I've spent all of today either on the phone or internet planning the rest of my trip. So far, this is what I have planned:
Fly to Christchurch at 8 pm, stay the night.
Stay in Christchurch for the day
Leave Christchurch on Wednesday and head to Kaikoura
Leave Kaikoura on Thursday and head back to Wellington
Leave Wellington on Saturday for Nelson
Stay in Nelson then leave for Greymouth on Sunday
Stay in Greymouth then head to Franz Joseph (hike the glacier!!).
Stay in Franz Joseph on Monday and head to Queenstown.
On the 6th and 7th I will go to Milford sound and Catlins, then make my way to Dunedin.
Stay in Dunedin on the 8th and head to Lake Tekapo
Leave Lake Tekapo on the 9th for Christchurch, then head back up to Auckland/Bay of Islands to hopefully visit with Angela (a relative) for the 9/10 or something, then stay in Auckland until I leave on the 13th.
Ahhhhh! I have a full rest of my trip! I am so excited!
I am hoping my visit to Wellington is worthwhile. I am excited to spend time with someone I met there (Chatta and Sara - I want to talk to you so bad to tell you of this new adventure!). I am to the point where I feel if I don't go back, I might be asking myself later why I didn't... after all, I have nothing to lose by going there, but everything to gain!
I hope I will still be able to visit Angela, as there was a storm that hit the Bay of Islands (where she lives) that was the biggest in the past 15 years, and I hear that it's flooded. I hope her and her family are safe, and that I will be able to meet this part of my family.
Anyways, I have more reservations to make and hostels to book, so I better get to that. I hope to call Sara soon so we can chit chat (I spend too much money on the phone, hehe) and I don't really know what time it is/have Chatta's number in Sweden, so I'll save my chit chat with her for later...
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Caving and Driving
We sat in a cafe all day and read a romance novel to eachother, which at times was awkward (for me) because there were youngins around. Oh well.
At 3 pm we went caving. OMFGOMGMOMGOMGOMGOMG. It was beyond epic.
First we had to stand in our already wet wet suits and learn how to abseil while frozen. We then walked down to the cave. We climbed down a small ladder, and then next thing you knew, we were abseiling down 3 waterfalls, crawling through very small holes, learning about/seeing glowworms that looked like stars, rock climbing up waterfalls and being just over 70 meters below the ground. It was beyond amazing.
The climb back up to the shed was the longest climb ever, being that we had just climbed up 3 rock walls and various ladders to get out with our wet suits weighing about 500 pounds and our boots full of water, weighing another 500 pounds.
After we got back into town (Waitomo) we were told that the All Blacks rugby game was on, so we were excited to sit with a few locals and have a cold brew while watching the game, but we were lied to. It didn't start until like 2 hours later, and we had to drive to Auckland (about 3 hours) that night. So we set off and went to KFC where there were NO BISCUITS. I just about died. I've been craving a biscuit for so long. So we went to McDonalds to get a Coke and a chocolate shake, only to be disappointed yet again. The coke tasted like there was rum in in, and the chocolate shake tasted like strawberry, even though it was brown.
We got a little lost in Auckland, but we finally found our hostel at midnight and passed out. We woke up this morning and dropped of el cheapo (our beloved car) after a quick stop at Dunkin Donuts (SWEET AS). We're gonna hang out in the afternoon, walking around Auckland until Bridget leaves at 2:30. Then I'm gonna sit in the hostel and plan my trip a little better, maybe.
At 3 pm we went caving. OMFGOMGMOMGOMGOMGOMG. It was beyond epic.
First we had to stand in our already wet wet suits and learn how to abseil while frozen. We then walked down to the cave. We climbed down a small ladder, and then next thing you knew, we were abseiling down 3 waterfalls, crawling through very small holes, learning about/seeing glowworms that looked like stars, rock climbing up waterfalls and being just over 70 meters below the ground. It was beyond amazing.
The climb back up to the shed was the longest climb ever, being that we had just climbed up 3 rock walls and various ladders to get out with our wet suits weighing about 500 pounds and our boots full of water, weighing another 500 pounds.
After we got back into town (Waitomo) we were told that the All Blacks rugby game was on, so we were excited to sit with a few locals and have a cold brew while watching the game, but we were lied to. It didn't start until like 2 hours later, and we had to drive to Auckland (about 3 hours) that night. So we set off and went to KFC where there were NO BISCUITS. I just about died. I've been craving a biscuit for so long. So we went to McDonalds to get a Coke and a chocolate shake, only to be disappointed yet again. The coke tasted like there was rum in in, and the chocolate shake tasted like strawberry, even though it was brown.
We got a little lost in Auckland, but we finally found our hostel at midnight and passed out. We woke up this morning and dropped of el cheapo (our beloved car) after a quick stop at Dunkin Donuts (SWEET AS). We're gonna hang out in the afternoon, walking around Auckland until Bridget leaves at 2:30. Then I'm gonna sit in the hostel and plan my trip a little better, maybe.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Mount Doom
We had a long drive yesterday. Left early in the morning and drove back up north. We saw so many cute little towns on our way up, and loved it.
We also drove by mount doom, which was fabulous/gorgeous.
We went for a drive last night up to Raglan, which took about 2 hours longer than expected because we took the back roads for a more scenic route. It was pitch black and there were possums running around all over. We scared ourselves silly.
We stayed in Waitomo and are going on an adventure today, which should be good and cold. Hopefully everything works out.
Both days that we have been driving all day it's been beautiful, but whenever we settle down the rain catches up with us :)
I bought a bus and plane ticket today for the South Island, which should be fun, although I'm a bit nervous still about traveling alone. Bridget leaves tomorrow, then I have a day or so in Auckland before I fly south. I hope everything goes okay as I am a freak about this stuff. Luckily I've met a lot of people traveling alone, so I'm sure I'll meet more.
I'm considering stopping back in Wellington to meet up with someone I met from there... We'll see what comes of that.
We also drove by mount doom, which was fabulous/gorgeous.
We went for a drive last night up to Raglan, which took about 2 hours longer than expected because we took the back roads for a more scenic route. It was pitch black and there were possums running around all over. We scared ourselves silly.
We stayed in Waitomo and are going on an adventure today, which should be good and cold. Hopefully everything works out.
Both days that we have been driving all day it's been beautiful, but whenever we settle down the rain catches up with us :)
I bought a bus and plane ticket today for the South Island, which should be fun, although I'm a bit nervous still about traveling alone. Bridget leaves tomorrow, then I have a day or so in Auckland before I fly south. I hope everything goes okay as I am a freak about this stuff. Luckily I've met a lot of people traveling alone, so I'm sure I'll meet more.
I'm considering stopping back in Wellington to meet up with someone I met from there... We'll see what comes of that.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Epic
Start with batman because we can't think about anything else. We just saw batman, the dark knight, and just died. We are speechless.
We went to bed early a few nights ago because we were tired. Yesterday we went to the wineries in Martinborough, which was great (sampling $125/half bottle wine was amazing). We drove back to Wellington and took a very long nap. We then went grocery shopping and cooked dinner and finished the last of our specialty cheese. We then watched the end of Rules of Engagement before going down to the Basement Bar to meet with our British friend Sonia, who I might travel with on the South Island when Bridget leaves. She's so cute.
We met a few guys and bar/club hopped all night. Bridget met some guys from Kazakhstan (spelling?) and her life was complete. I met a bunch of Kiwi's. And we were caught in the middle of a throwdown because a guy with a girlfriend was flirting with a girl we didn't know, but we knew and were dancing, but she was protective.
I got two phone numbers. Haha. We couldn't sleep all night because our window is broken and was banging and we just about broke it. again.
We woke up late, at some toast, walked around the city and got kinda lost, but not at the same time (Wellington is like the cutest place ever!!!!) Then we went to the dark knight (please refer to top).
We leave tomorrow (so sad!!!!!!) to head back up to Auckland, with a stop at the Waitomo Caves (if they're not flooded) for a 7 hour epic adventure, and maybe stopping in Hamilton to see the rugby game at a pub.
We went to bed early a few nights ago because we were tired. Yesterday we went to the wineries in Martinborough, which was great (sampling $125/half bottle wine was amazing). We drove back to Wellington and took a very long nap. We then went grocery shopping and cooked dinner and finished the last of our specialty cheese. We then watched the end of Rules of Engagement before going down to the Basement Bar to meet with our British friend Sonia, who I might travel with on the South Island when Bridget leaves. She's so cute.
We met a few guys and bar/club hopped all night. Bridget met some guys from Kazakhstan (spelling?) and her life was complete. I met a bunch of Kiwi's. And we were caught in the middle of a throwdown because a guy with a girlfriend was flirting with a girl we didn't know, but we knew and were dancing, but she was protective.
I got two phone numbers. Haha. We couldn't sleep all night because our window is broken and was banging and we just about broke it. again.
We woke up late, at some toast, walked around the city and got kinda lost, but not at the same time (Wellington is like the cutest place ever!!!!) Then we went to the dark knight (please refer to top).
We leave tomorrow (so sad!!!!!!) to head back up to Auckland, with a stop at the Waitomo Caves (if they're not flooded) for a 7 hour epic adventure, and maybe stopping in Hamilton to see the rugby game at a pub.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
In Wellington
So back to two nights ago.
Bridget and I watched Constantine and went in the hottub for an hour or so before going to bed. The next day was gorgeous so we went for a little hike to Huka Falls (There is a LOT of water there).
Then we drove to Wellington. We saw a Celtic winery and tried to stop by, but it was closed, which saddened us. Our drive to Wellington had the most beautiful weather alongside some beautiful rolling hills, sheep, and mountains/volcanoes in the distance. We stopped in a random town (they are all so cute here!) and shopped for a few hours. We bought some sweet gold jewelry to look cute in.
We got completely lost in Wellington. It's a pretty small city, but the drivers are crazy and the maps not so correct. The hostel we are at in Wellington is pretty hoppin. There are tons of people here. Once we arrived we talked to one of our roommates (and Englishman) and then went grocery shopping and bought some "Specialty cheese" also known as parmesan ($8 for a little bag, but we found some on sale for $5!!!). We then made (the stoves were impossible to use, so it took like an hour to boil water)/ate supper, headed down to the bar in the basement of the hostel where it was happy hour.
We ended up playing some intense games with these four guys from England for the entire night. And ended the night laughing in the hallway at the fact that someone left a bowl of rice in front of our door.
We woke up this morning to bright sunshine and a beautiful day so we were excited to walk around town, but as soon as we stepped out the door it started pouring torrentially. We bought tickets to see The Dark Knight for the 24th! yayayayayaya! We went to a museum that was very talked up, but it sucked, which was disappointing since we were soaking wet from the rain. Oh well. Now we are planning for a our night ahead, which will probably be with more cute English boys in the basement bar. Also planning on going back to old times and going for a late night Mickey D's hamburger or nuggets.
We are really enjoying our time together and I am mad that Bridget is leaving me, but I will cope. And she's completely broke. I'm not yet, thankfully. I found a good way to get around called the Kiwi Experience bus, so I'll probably end up doing that.
Lots of love.
AK
p.s. Bridget army crawled down a set of stairs and I took pictures.
p.p.s. We are suckers for accents
p.p.p.s. We had to physically hold our umbrella on the sides for it to be effective, which made it compelete ineffective as our arms got completely soaked.
YAY FOR VOLCANOES!.... and sheep (they wear what's natural).
Bridget and I watched Constantine and went in the hottub for an hour or so before going to bed. The next day was gorgeous so we went for a little hike to Huka Falls (There is a LOT of water there).
Then we drove to Wellington. We saw a Celtic winery and tried to stop by, but it was closed, which saddened us. Our drive to Wellington had the most beautiful weather alongside some beautiful rolling hills, sheep, and mountains/volcanoes in the distance. We stopped in a random town (they are all so cute here!) and shopped for a few hours. We bought some sweet gold jewelry to look cute in.
We got completely lost in Wellington. It's a pretty small city, but the drivers are crazy and the maps not so correct. The hostel we are at in Wellington is pretty hoppin. There are tons of people here. Once we arrived we talked to one of our roommates (and Englishman) and then went grocery shopping and bought some "Specialty cheese" also known as parmesan ($8 for a little bag, but we found some on sale for $5!!!). We then made (the stoves were impossible to use, so it took like an hour to boil water)/ate supper, headed down to the bar in the basement of the hostel where it was happy hour.
We ended up playing some intense games with these four guys from England for the entire night. And ended the night laughing in the hallway at the fact that someone left a bowl of rice in front of our door.
We woke up this morning to bright sunshine and a beautiful day so we were excited to walk around town, but as soon as we stepped out the door it started pouring torrentially. We bought tickets to see The Dark Knight for the 24th! yayayayayaya! We went to a museum that was very talked up, but it sucked, which was disappointing since we were soaking wet from the rain. Oh well. Now we are planning for a our night ahead, which will probably be with more cute English boys in the basement bar. Also planning on going back to old times and going for a late night Mickey D's hamburger or nuggets.
We are really enjoying our time together and I am mad that Bridget is leaving me, but I will cope. And she's completely broke. I'm not yet, thankfully. I found a good way to get around called the Kiwi Experience bus, so I'll probably end up doing that.
Lots of love.
AK
p.s. Bridget army crawled down a set of stairs and I took pictures.
p.p.s. We are suckers for accents
p.p.p.s. We had to physically hold our umbrella on the sides for it to be effective, which made it compelete ineffective as our arms got completely soaked.
YAY FOR VOLCANOES!.... and sheep (they wear what's natural).
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Rain, Rain, you can stay!
After I updated last, Bridget and I went out to the lava bar, which was filled with attractive, gay men. oh well. in the morning it was raining pretty hard so we decided to wait to zorb until today. We went to a place called Hell's Gate where we had a mud bath and sulphur spa. it was excellent to soothe our still aching muscles from horseback riding. It rained the entire time, but that was okay since it was flipping hot in them!
We carved some cool little wood things as memorobilia. yay.
Then we ate and saw Prince Caspian (we gotta get some movies in there!!!)
Then we went home and slept for like 12 hours.
Today we woke up, and went zorbing, which we could have done all day. it was beyond amazing.
We then drove to taupo where it's been pouring the entire day, except for right now. We went to the bungy jump place, and got a little intimidated (and it was closed for a few hours) because darth vader's face was reflected on the lake. Not because of the 17 story drop. So we took a walk in the rain towards the huge waterfall, but the path was flooded, so we just went for a bit and turned around.
I am getting a sore throat and might die. so we stopped at a chemist (pharmacist) and i'm gonna be better by tomorrow.
We would like to eat, but everything is closed in the middle of the day, so we'll starve for a few hours more.
That is all.
Mom, I love it when you call. hehe.
We carved some cool little wood things as memorobilia. yay.
Then we ate and saw Prince Caspian (we gotta get some movies in there!!!)
Then we went home and slept for like 12 hours.
Today we woke up, and went zorbing, which we could have done all day. it was beyond amazing.
We then drove to taupo where it's been pouring the entire day, except for right now. We went to the bungy jump place, and got a little intimidated (and it was closed for a few hours) because darth vader's face was reflected on the lake. Not because of the 17 story drop. So we took a walk in the rain towards the huge waterfall, but the path was flooded, so we just went for a bit and turned around.
I am getting a sore throat and might die. so we stopped at a chemist (pharmacist) and i'm gonna be better by tomorrow.
We would like to eat, but everything is closed in the middle of the day, so we'll starve for a few hours more.
That is all.
Mom, I love it when you call. hehe.
Friday, July 18, 2008
The Hobbits are Coming to Isengaard
Bridget and I went out last night and had a mighty swell time. We then woke up, tried to go to Vodafone to buy more minutes for the phone I have, but they just looked at us and made us wait 20 minutes. Boo. Then we drove in the rain to Matamata aka Hobbiton. We were worried we wouldn't find it, but the sign was ridiculously huge. It was on some random farm and we happened to be the only ones on the tour at that time, so we got our own private tour. I WALKED THE SAME STEPS AS GANDALF, FRODO, AND FRIENDS. I also found out you can have a party by the party tree.
Destination wedding? maybe yes, maybe don't. most likely definitely. yes.
We saw a sheep sheared by some crazy shearer. It was a male. both of them were. We then bottle fed to orphan lambs. they were hungry and cute.
WE then started our drive to Rotorua. We are staying in a cactus. actually, it's cactus jack's. which is a pretty good place to be, albeit a little creepy with the mexican theme. the beds are so soft, they might as well not exist. bridget and i haven't stopped laughing for the past 8 hours.
WE just went to a hangi meal (traditional maori under the ground made meal) and they did a sweet performance. Maori men are extremely attractive and intense, which we realized first last night when we went out, but it was exemplified tonight when they were warrior-ed up. Some 15 year old girls called us annoying, so I told them that was very inconsiderate.
I've had horrible stomach problems today that resulted in a large group of people surrounding me and an older woman loudly saying "whoever smelled it dealt it" Must of been her haha.
The bathroom in the hostel has a timed light, and bridget and i were chatting when the light just turned off, which was a bit of an issue because I couldn't find the end of the tp. oh well.
Tomorrow we are going zorbing and spending the entire day in the mud baths and in the spa. Rotorua smells like sulfer, but I don't mind.
Destination wedding? maybe yes, maybe don't. most likely definitely. yes.
We saw a sheep sheared by some crazy shearer. It was a male. both of them were. We then bottle fed to orphan lambs. they were hungry and cute.
WE then started our drive to Rotorua. We are staying in a cactus. actually, it's cactus jack's. which is a pretty good place to be, albeit a little creepy with the mexican theme. the beds are so soft, they might as well not exist. bridget and i haven't stopped laughing for the past 8 hours.
WE just went to a hangi meal (traditional maori under the ground made meal) and they did a sweet performance. Maori men are extremely attractive and intense, which we realized first last night when we went out, but it was exemplified tonight when they were warrior-ed up. Some 15 year old girls called us annoying, so I told them that was very inconsiderate.
I've had horrible stomach problems today that resulted in a large group of people surrounding me and an older woman loudly saying "whoever smelled it dealt it" Must of been her haha.
The bathroom in the hostel has a timed light, and bridget and i were chatting when the light just turned off, which was a bit of an issue because I couldn't find the end of the tp. oh well.
Tomorrow we are going zorbing and spending the entire day in the mud baths and in the spa. Rotorua smells like sulfer, but I don't mind.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Many posts in one
I haven't had internet for a while, and Bridget and I just got our new phone number today, but still have to buy some time for it.
Anyways, here's a little update on the past few days!
Monday, July 14th, 6:41 PM
Flight to LA went well. I met some nice people in the airport from Canada and Australia. I read a book with somewhat inappropriate chapter titles. There were like 5 Catholic friars on the plane, which made me feel even more awkward.
Monday, July 14, 8:20 PM
My flight to Fiji has 10 seats across. The people greet you in a touristy way when you get on board. It even has a second floor! I have 10 hours on this flight. Hopefully I'll sleep. This still isn't real!
Tuesday, July 15, 5:15 PM
Still en route to Fiji. Sitting next to Tom, a guy from San Francisco. Pretty much a hippie but a nice guy to visit with.. Weirdest flight I"ve ever been on. Got face towels before bed and in the morning. Also got socks, eye covering, toothbrush, and toothpaste, besides 2 meals. I'm loving it. I could stay on this plane for a long time. I"ve never met nicer flight attendents than the Fijians. I'm watching Flight of the Conchords on the plane.
Tuesday, July 15, 8:00 AM
Made it to Fiji and can sense it in the air. The airport here is quite annoyhing. I am so excited I am almost to New Zealand, albeit exhausted.
Wednesday, July 16, 10 AM
Bridget arrived and we got a ride to our hostel by a Samoan dude I met at the airport. WE sat around a gossiped for a few hours then went to go find some food (Fruit Loops), then planned our trip. Yay! We were asleep by 10 last night!
Thursday, July 17, 10 AM
Woke up. Rented "el cheapo" and had some problems at first. Drove north to Pakiri and rode horse in the ocean (yay!!!!). Rapheal (the dog) took care of us as we walked and rode. We galloped around corners and had a smashing time. Stayed at Pahiri. GORGEOUS. Stayed in a co-ed dorm and the girl in the bunk below me slept naked, which was somewhat awkward.
Thursday, July 17, 11:30 pm
Went on a dolphin safari. got seasick and barfed. ended up not seeing any dolphins, but got a voucher to come back any time for the rest of my life. It was beautiful. Drove far and am now in Hamilton and going to explore the night life! Pahiri was beautiful and I wish I could have stayed forever (Bridget and I found a house for sale that would make the perfect bakery! oh no!) Tomorrow we see HOBBITTON! our lives are crazy busy.
I love you all and know I am safe and I will call my family soon!
Anyways, here's a little update on the past few days!
Monday, July 14th, 6:41 PM
Flight to LA went well. I met some nice people in the airport from Canada and Australia. I read a book with somewhat inappropriate chapter titles. There were like 5 Catholic friars on the plane, which made me feel even more awkward.
Monday, July 14, 8:20 PM
My flight to Fiji has 10 seats across. The people greet you in a touristy way when you get on board. It even has a second floor! I have 10 hours on this flight. Hopefully I'll sleep. This still isn't real!
Tuesday, July 15, 5:15 PM
Still en route to Fiji. Sitting next to Tom, a guy from San Francisco. Pretty much a hippie but a nice guy to visit with.. Weirdest flight I"ve ever been on. Got face towels before bed and in the morning. Also got socks, eye covering, toothbrush, and toothpaste, besides 2 meals. I'm loving it. I could stay on this plane for a long time. I"ve never met nicer flight attendents than the Fijians. I'm watching Flight of the Conchords on the plane.
Tuesday, July 15, 8:00 AM
Made it to Fiji and can sense it in the air. The airport here is quite annoyhing. I am so excited I am almost to New Zealand, albeit exhausted.
Wednesday, July 16, 10 AM
Bridget arrived and we got a ride to our hostel by a Samoan dude I met at the airport. WE sat around a gossiped for a few hours then went to go find some food (Fruit Loops), then planned our trip. Yay! We were asleep by 10 last night!
Thursday, July 17, 10 AM
Woke up. Rented "el cheapo" and had some problems at first. Drove north to Pakiri and rode horse in the ocean (yay!!!!). Rapheal (the dog) took care of us as we walked and rode. We galloped around corners and had a smashing time. Stayed at Pahiri. GORGEOUS. Stayed in a co-ed dorm and the girl in the bunk below me slept naked, which was somewhat awkward.
Thursday, July 17, 11:30 pm
Went on a dolphin safari. got seasick and barfed. ended up not seeing any dolphins, but got a voucher to come back any time for the rest of my life. It was beautiful. Drove far and am now in Hamilton and going to explore the night life! Pahiri was beautiful and I wish I could have stayed forever (Bridget and I found a house for sale that would make the perfect bakery! oh no!) Tomorrow we see HOBBITTON! our lives are crazy busy.
I love you all and know I am safe and I will call my family soon!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Sunday, July 13, 2008
One last time before I leave...
So I thought I'd update one last time.
I just dropped my mom off at the train station. It was so great that she came and we walked around Lake of the Isles and Minnehaha Falls so that calmed my nerves a lot. I have such a great family :)
It was Nick's birthday today, so I was thinking about him a lot. He e-mailed me a really cute video of Mirah with a party hat and balloon. It was adorable.
I was hoping for a really good night of sleep tonight, but it seems that life has other plans for me: the person in the apartment under mine is playing music RIDICULOUSLY loud. This hasn't happened in like 8 or 9 months. So right now I'm not too happy about that.
Chuck is giving me a ride to the airport tomorrow, which is really nice of him. I will have my phone on until I leave from LA, which is about 9:00 pm Pacific time. I'll probably be calling my mom/family a lot!
Anyways, I'm going to try to fall asleep after I stomp around a bit. Next time you hear from me, I'll be in NEW ZEALAND!!!!!
I just dropped my mom off at the train station. It was so great that she came and we walked around Lake of the Isles and Minnehaha Falls so that calmed my nerves a lot. I have such a great family :)
It was Nick's birthday today, so I was thinking about him a lot. He e-mailed me a really cute video of Mirah with a party hat and balloon. It was adorable.
I was hoping for a really good night of sleep tonight, but it seems that life has other plans for me: the person in the apartment under mine is playing music RIDICULOUSLY loud. This hasn't happened in like 8 or 9 months. So right now I'm not too happy about that.
Chuck is giving me a ride to the airport tomorrow, which is really nice of him. I will have my phone on until I leave from LA, which is about 9:00 pm Pacific time. I'll probably be calling my mom/family a lot!
Anyways, I'm going to try to fall asleep after I stomp around a bit. Next time you hear from me, I'll be in NEW ZEALAND!!!!!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
To Do & To Pack
So, I leave in 5 days.
I had to change a flight today. I called the airline that I'm flying from LA to Auckland with, and I found out that during my two hour layover in LA, I have to leave the secure area, check in, then go through security again, in the 5th busiest airport in the world. Hmmm. I don't think two hours is quite enough time. So I changed my flight so that I would have four hours, just in case something happens.
I made a list of things to do before I leave and things to pack and where to pack them. So here it goes, and if I forget something, make sure to leave a comment or write an e-mail!
To Do:
I might start packing the little toiletries now, just so I don't have to think about them, along with some of the other things that I won't need until I leave.
My mother might come and visit right before I leave, so that might alleviate some of the stress she has about me going, and it'd be really nice to have someone be here to make sure I haven't completely lost my mind.
I am going to see Wolf Parade (a band) tomorrow, and I am super excited. I am probably more excited to see them right now, mostly because it still doesn't seem that this dream that I've had to go to New Zealand is actually coming true, let alone just a few days away!
*****Note that I have now added the current time and weather in New Zealand and a currency converter, located at the bottom of the page. There is an interactive map on the right hand side if you would like to see where I am. Also, the time of my posting is in New Zealand time, so it's not quite accurate until I leave*****
I had to change a flight today. I called the airline that I'm flying from LA to Auckland with, and I found out that during my two hour layover in LA, I have to leave the secure area, check in, then go through security again, in the 5th busiest airport in the world. Hmmm. I don't think two hours is quite enough time. So I changed my flight so that I would have four hours, just in case something happens.
I made a list of things to do before I leave and things to pack and where to pack them. So here it goes, and if I forget something, make sure to leave a comment or write an e-mail!
To Do:
- Laundry
- Take out the trash/recycling
- Unplug all electrical except fridge
- Take out perishable items from fridge
- Leave a window partway open
- Make sure stove/oven is off
- Dishes
- PACK!!!!
- Send an e-mail to my mother with various phone numbers in case of emergency
- GET ADDRESSES FOR POSTCARDS!!!
- Wallet
- Camera
- iPod
- Keys
- Itinerary/Boarding Pass
- Passport
- Book(s)
- Toiletries (razor, facewash, toothpaste/brush, shampoo/conditioner, bodywash, deodorant)
- Brush
- Ponytails
- Shirts
- Pants
- Socks
- Undies
- Camera Charger
- iPod charger
- Converter
- PJ's
- Dress(es)
- Bra
- Towel
- Jacket (w/ hood)
- Sweatshirt(s)
- Dress shoes
- Sandals
- Hiking shoes
I might start packing the little toiletries now, just so I don't have to think about them, along with some of the other things that I won't need until I leave.
My mother might come and visit right before I leave, so that might alleviate some of the stress she has about me going, and it'd be really nice to have someone be here to make sure I haven't completely lost my mind.
I am going to see Wolf Parade (a band) tomorrow, and I am super excited. I am probably more excited to see them right now, mostly because it still doesn't seem that this dream that I've had to go to New Zealand is actually coming true, let alone just a few days away!
*****Note that I have now added the current time and weather in New Zealand and a currency converter, located at the bottom of the page. There is an interactive map on the right hand side if you would like to see where I am. Also, the time of my posting is in New Zealand time, so it's not quite accurate until I leave*****
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Less than two weeks to go!
I leave in less than two weeks now, and it doesn't even seem real. I keep telling myself that I have so much to do to get ready, but I really can't think of anything. In other words, I'm getting really anxious!
I got an e-mail from Bridget, the friend that I will be traveling with for the first 12 days, and we have planned some stuff to do!
- Zorb in Rotorua
- Polynesian spa in Rotorua
- The Dark Knight in Wellington
- Black Water Rafting in the Waitomo Caves
- Wine tours
- The Shire (we are LOTR geeks, ya know)
- Meet my future husband (oh my, where did that come from?)
So those are our only plans, besides our plan to just let the unexpected happen and experience life to the fullest! There will probably be more pre-trip updates as I get more and more anxious and the fact that I'm actually doing this becomes more real.
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