Damper, Dance and Barbies

            Today was my first real experience with my kids at school.  I was so lucky to be included in the “field day” at school today.  This day was can outdoor activity day that taught the kids basic outdoor skills.  They pitched tents, made grass huts from leaves and branches, completed ropes courses, participated in Maori dances and games, competed in obstacle courses, baked traditional Maori bread over a fire, and correctly orienteered throughout the school grounds.  This day was about participating in activities that        connected the children to nature and allowed for great fun!

            One of the best activities for me was the baking of the Maori bread called damper.  This dough was hand made by the students the day before, simply water and flour, then was cooked on a bamboo spit over an open fire.  This is a traditional Maori bread and the kids absolutely loved adding honey and jam to their finished masterpieces!  We then ventured to the Maori dance station where students had their go at Maori Poi Ball Dance.  This particular dance involves a ball connected to a string.  You hold one in each hand and complete intricate movements and dances.  This is done by the women of the Maori people.  I even got a chance to practice my Poi dancing! You’ll see by the pictures that my 6 year olds far outdid me in the talent of Poi!

            
           After our adventure to school, we came back and got ready for my first real “barby”.  I was invited to join my host family to a family friend’s house for a barby or what I now know to be a dinner party!  Over great wine, food and conversation I grew to know some great friends.  At the dinner party alone there were three Australians, two Kiwi’s, three Brits and me, the one American.  As conversation and wine flowed, the talk turned to funny stories about accents and differences in customs and sayings. 

          As the conversation started I told the crew that I was told never to say “root” as in “I will root for the Blues rugby team”.  They all died laughing and explained to me that, although I could truly root for the team, I would not want to be known as that girl…! This caused an eruption of laughter and other stories began to unfold.  So here is my list of must not says:

            Root=to whore oneself

            Shag=to have sex

            Fanny=women’s genitalia (this one made me laugh until I cried! Shout out to                                       all my sorority sisters and our fanny packs we love so much!!)

            Overall this may have been my favorite night thus far simply because I was able to spend time with such lovely people.  I am growing to love this country more and more as I spend time here.  To think that I was invited into a home for a “barby” without any question, offered fine New Zealand wine and provided endless hospitality and companionship simply for staying with this family’s friends.  I am so fortunate.  Tonight will easily go down as a highlight of my trip.