2 week holiday: CANYONING!!!

Today was INSANE! I've decided that Queenstown is my favorite place in the world. The day started with a beautiful walk along Lake Wakatipu with a yummy chocolate croissant in one hand and flat white coffee in the other. The views were stunning! The mountains literally rise from the water all along the lake!

Then we were off for our CANYONING ADVENTURE!!! We found the little store to get briefed and sign our lives away! Then we loaded a van that drove us 15 minutes out of Queenstown to our canyon! Here we geared up in wetsuit, wet jacket, wet socks, wet shoes, life jackets, helmets and carabeaner harnesses! Then we were off to the water! We were instructed to "get acclimated" to the water! We belly and back flopped in and immediately I knew today was going to be epic! We started our short 10 minute walk up the canyon to our first zipline through the trees! We were instructed to not hit the two trees we flew through. And of course I couldn't control my body and smacked my foot into the tree. The guide who caught me lectured me to never do something like that again haha little does he know that I truly cannot control my body and may be the clumsiest person ever but he would soon find that out with our next adventures...

We got to do another zipline across a HUGE canyon! It was insane! Then we got to repel down a cliff side! I ACTUALLY REPELLED!! Our next stop was WATER! The water was by far my favorite! We floated, jumped off 15 meter cliffs, ziplined out to the middle of a canyon and dropped into the water 18 meters up with a repel down, rock climbing a cliff and even did rock water slides! Every moment was insane and I would kill to do again! We met some of the coolest people that were on our team. We saved each other from rapids, pulled each other up rocks and held each other through the waters!

One of the scariest moments of the trip happened during my second jump. As I rock climbed up to the guide at the top of the rocks who would help me jump our professional cameraman who was attached to the mountain above me fell into me! His carabeaner broke and he went hurtling into me. Thank god for my "catlike" reflexes (thanks to my dad of course) I was able to grab onto my guide and hold on for dear life! He saved me from falling 15 meters in a very ungraceful and dangerous way. Obviously in my mind I was thinking "this could only happen to me". But really the trip was fantastic and I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to go!

The rest of the afternoon was spent going up the gorgeous gondola to get a birds eye view of the mountains, Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu! We even got to do this fun activity called luging! It was like little go carts that zipped around the top of the mountain! Basically it was the best day ever!!!

Now we are heading off to Mount Cook which is the largest mountain in New Zealand! It's hard to believe I only have 3 days left! Can't wait to see what ahead for the rest of the week!!!

2 Week Holiday: BUNGY JUMPING!

Today was a day for the books!! I BUNGY JUMPED!!! But let's start from the beginning...

We woke up this morning to a beautiful day at Lake Wanaka. We had breakfast at a little cafe on the water and took in the long awaited sunshine. We then packed up and headed off towards Kawarau Bridge in the Kawarau gorge where 8 of us would be jumping off the first commercial bungy site in the world!

As we set off for the short drive, I was amazingly calm heading to my doom. When we arrived at Kawarau we were greeted and shown a short video of AJ Hackett, the man who opened this site. It was fun to see all the jumps he's done! It made me feel safe because I knew he had survived much scarier jumps! Then we were off to weigh, pay and go!

I made it to the counter first. After I paid I was told to go right outside. They immediately began harnessing me and before I knew it I was standing on the edge of a MASSIVE drop into water...

I had a minor panic attack and even cried a little at the top because I didn't think I could do it. I mean, what sane person throws themself off a bridge with only rope tied to their ankles? Apparently this girl because after much convincing from the saint-of-a-bungy-worker, I got counted down and stepped off!!!

The feeling was like nothing I can properly explain. Jordan put it perfectly by saying it feels like flying. For a moment you are suspended with nothing but air and space. And then you BOUNCE! I decided to go feet first which meant that when I hit the bottom I was whipped to a hanging position and then thrown up to drop again! After all of the build up and the fear it was easily the coolest thing I've done yet and I'm so glad I got up the nerve to jump! Next it was time to be pulled down! A boat was waiting in the river to fetch me with a pole and pull me down. I remember laying down and laughing uncontrollably! I couldn't believe I did it and I was so proud of myself!!!

After everyone jumped we headed off to Queenstown! This place is absolutely stunning! It reminds me so much of Vail or some other little Colorado ski town! It's my absolute heaven!

Tonight we are enjoying our last night with our bus group because everyone separates from here. We've all grown really close and it's going to be so hard to say goodbye. I can honestly say I've made some good friends on this trip!

Tomorrow we will be CANYONING! Can't wait to share the crazy adventures to come!

2 Week Holiday: Franz Josef to Lake Wanaka

Today started my favorite leg of our journey so far! We are heading into Wanaka and Queenstown in the next two days!! After missing out on my glacier Heli-Hike because of weather I've decided to beef up my adventure!!! I've officially signed up to pilot a stunt plane and bungy jump tomorrow!!! But you'll hear all about that in my blog tomorrow, more about today!

We woke up this morning to make our way to Wanaka. The drive to Wanaka includes stops at some of the most gorgeous lakes in New Zealand. The first stop was Lake Matheson. This lake is called "mirror lake" because the lake contains a mineral that makes it reflect the scenery more than other lakes. The mountains above can be seen as clearly in the water! GORGEOUS! We took a walk along the lake, unfortunately the cloud cover was heavy and it was more difficult to see the Southern Alps than on a clear day. Regardless, it was a gorgeous start to our day! As you know, anytime I'm in the mountains I'm a happy girl.

Our next little lookout stop was at Knights Point where you can stand on the edge of a cliff and look down to the sea. It was, of course, raining and cloudy but I've realized some of our best moments have involved running to take pictures in the rain! So we sprinted to each lookout for photo ops and then ran back to the bus a little damp but laughing like crazy!

My favorite stop today was Thunder Creek waterfalls! It's a 75 meter high fall in Mount Aspiring National Park! It was absolutely stunning! Running down the path tothe falls in the rain may be a highlight! Leading up to the falls we counted 17 waterfalls and then another 5 after! These falls and this entire drive was gorgeous! This national park is where Lord of the Rings was filmed! No wonder! It's breathtaking!

Lake Hawea was our next short photo op stop! It was absolutely gorgeous and I'm in love with this scenery! Our last stop was Lake Wanaka where we will be staying tonight! Lake Wanaka is the brightest blue I've seen in a lake. Not exactly Geist beautiful but it'll do. GORGEOUS GORGEOUS GORGEOUS!!! As we were driving along each curve in the mountainside offered a more stunning view than the last. Sometimes I pinch myself to prove this is real life.

After we checked into our hostel we quickly went down to the beach to take yet more photos! We decided jumping pictures were a must! I honestly don't think I've laughed that hard in a very long time!

I'm missing all of you a ton and wish I could've packed you all in my suitcase! Sending my love home!

2 week holiday: Franz Josef Glacier

Today was supposed to be a day of extreme sport with a helicopter ride to the top if Franz Josef Glacier and a hike through crevasses, unfortunately the weather was poor and all heli-hikes were cancelled.

Commence Plan B:
We decided to stay in and be lazy all morning since we had no obligations. I was able to FaceTime my parents and Brian and it was the perfect piece of home I needed. Then we went off to explore Franz Josef!

We started at the West Coast Wildlife Centre. This little centre houses the rarest Kiwi birds in the world. They breed and release these funny little creatures. As we walked through the dark exhibit we were on the lookout for the birds! The enclosure has little protection around it and I was so tempted to pet the kiwis! They are the funniest little animal I have ever seen!

We then were off to lunch and window shopping! This little town is adorable. All of the shops are nestled between mountains and the view is breathtaking. It reminds me so much of Colorado and I was slightly nostalgic.

It's been a lazy afternoon with laundry doing, ice cream eating and hot tubbing. I think this is the most relaxed I've been since starting this trip! Can't wait to see what is ahead tomorrow! Sending my love!

2 week holiday: To Franz Josef Glacier

Today started with a bang and a boom and a walk that was pointless. Our backpackers had scheduled a lovely walking tour of Blackball, and when I say lovely Blackball, I mean a walking tour without the lovely but lots of history. Our guide was interesting and a little long winded. But really there was a lot of history and it was at least interesting to learn about New Zealand mining in the 1800s.

After hopping on the bus we were off for Franz Josef Glacier! Along the way we made a few fun stops. Our first stop was at Hokitika. This little quirky town is home of the largest jade factory in New Zealand. Cassie and I purchased some jade jewelry to take home! It's amazing that jade earrings here, in the homeland of jade, only cost $20! Gorgeous!!!

Our next stop was Lake Mahinapua. This little lake is usually a gorgeous stop, but of course these girls forget they are traveling with the "Cheslyn Curse" so instead of gorgeous mountains and blue skies, we got grey clouds covering the views and buckets of rain. It was still fun to run in the rain and act a fool!

Then we were off to Franz Josef! We arrived without any issue and the rain continued to fall! We went to dinner and had drinks at the local bar. We woke up this morning to more rain and no chance of the glacier helicopter hike that we planned to do because of the awful weather! Looks like today we might be making our own fun! Wish us luck!

2 Week Holiday: BLACKBALL(ed)

We got up early this morning to head off to the Wild West Coast! Today is Anzac Day which is a day of remembrance for all the New Zealand soldiers who have perished in war. In remembrance you wear a red poppy flower on this day. I have mine on now. As we traveled we came across an army procession in one of the little towns. We got to stop and get out to commemorate the fallen. I thought of Adam my cousin and his dedication to our country. Across borders, across world and cultural differences there is an appreciation to all service men and women. I was emotional looking at the wreaths laid upon the war memorial for the fallen and still serving Anzac troops (Australia and New Zealand), knowing my family has a similar connection. I said a little prayer for Adam at this gorgeous memorial where the mountains meet the sky.

As we started off this morning, Cassie and I fought for the front seat of our bus! We were determined to have leg room today! It's the longest day of traveling with little stops but the most scenic views! Lonely Planet calls this drive the top 10 most scenic must-drives in the world! Absolutely breathtaking! You can see the sheep perched on the side of the mountains and the trees starting to color for autumn.

We stopped at gorgeous Buller River for a photo-op (our driver clearly knows he has American girls on his trip). Then off we went to Tauranga Bay where we saw a seal colony and STUNNING rock cliffs!!! I took off from the group for a few to find the perfect cliff. I stood by myself capturing the view. It was so peaceful and exactly what I needed, a short time to reflect on how lucky I am.

Punakaiki was our next stop. This place is known for its pancake rocks. The pancake rocks are some of the coolest rocks and cliffs I have ever seen! You realize how small you are when among such magnificent beauty!

Finally we made it to the teeny tiny town called Blackball. We dropped our stuff and since there was nowhere else to go and nothing else to do everyone headed to the bar. This night turned out to be the most fun I've had yet!!! All of the Stray Bus passengers ended up playing Bullshit, Kings and other drinking games! It's amazing how games go across languages and cultures! At one point we started playing a game where everyone had to choose a piece of dress up clothing (dress up clothes were actually provided at this bar-hopefully you are getting a picture in your mind now of where we are staying) if you chose the wrong color card. I lost every time. I ended up wearing a dress, skirt, 4 hats, a cow skin vest, a mascarade mask, and a clown costume. People had wigs on and the beer kept flowing! I've never had more fun getting to know people! I feel like we have made incredible friends that will continue for the rest of this trip! We have Canadians, Germans, Swedes, Scotish, Swiss, English, Columbians, and one kiwi (our driver). I'm loving this trip and can't wait for our next stop FRANZ JOSEPH GLACIER!

2 week holiday: Abel Tasman SAILING

Today was absolutely fabulous! We woke up early this morning to have breakfast and pack for our day-long adventure! We headed off for the first part of our day which was hiking 12 kilometers! With our packs stuffed we headed off on one of the Abel Tasman's most scenic hikes.

We were so lucky to have gorgeous hiking weather. After three hours hiking through waterfalls, up and down hills and through the rainforest we finally made it to Anchorage Beach. This beach is known as the gold sand beach and I was amazed at how gorgeous it was! We joked that it was the consistency of cornbread mix! So different!

As we were eating we watched our catamaran boat pull to shore! WE GOT TO GO SAILING!!! We went through some rough ocean and I got SOAKED! It was incredible! I had never been sailing on such a huge boat and loved every minutes of it! We even got to see seals! So cute!

After a long day of testing our sea legs we finally made it home absolutely FROZEN! We grilled up mean chicken salads and now It's barely 7:30 and we are all locked in our room in pjs and ready for bed! So much for four wild college students! Goodnight from Abel Tasman! Off to Blackball (some nowhere western town) tomorrow!! All my love to you all!

2 week holiday: Picton to Abel Tasman

We started our morning with breakfast in a lovely garden outside our backpackers (NZ name for hostel). After some toast and a coffee we got ready to head into Picton!

We started among the shops stopping into the arty ones. We went into a little shop that had Evolve jewelry! This is the jewelry that is New Zealand made and similar to pandora! My host family had bought me an Evolve "love" bead for y birthday! I was so excited that this place had the wrap bracelet I wanted and even a kiwi bird for it! I treated myself to a belated birthday gift/only souvenir!! It's gorgeous and the perfect thing to remind me of this gorgeous trip!

We then wandered to the bay, having no idea what it looked like since we came in at night. We walked through a gate into the most gorgeous view I have ever seen. Mountains literally rise from the ocean and the colors are unimaginable! I will never forget the pure beauty that this place holds. And to think Picton is considered a "nonstop" for our trip! I can't imagine what beauty lies ahead!

We headed back to our backpackers to wait for our bus! An hour later than expected we boarded our Stray Bus! Our driver informed us our first stop would be a $2...wait for it...WINE TOUR OF OUR FAVORITE NZ WINERY!!! We knew we had chosen the right bus tour!!!

As we drove each side of the bus was surrounded by vineyards! We were informed we were touring through Marlborough wine country! I was in heaven!! We stopped at Bouldevine's winery to sample the delicious wines! We were clearly in our element sampling the wines, not to mention it awarded us some of the most gorgeous views yet!

Back on the bus we headed to the Abel Tasman National Park for two days of adventure and beauty! Tonight we are staying in Old Macdonald's Farm Barn! We cooked out, drank wine and sat by a bonfire! I couldn't have asked for a better stay! Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings! All my love from New Zealand' sweet dreams and good morning :)

2 Week Holiday: Wellington and THE FERRY

Today was such a gorgeous day...for Wellington. Haha the winds here are ridiculous and I've decided at no point on this trip am I going to have a fabulous hair do, so no judgement from you all!

We left our gorgeous cafe for Tepapa Museum. It was fun to see all of the different exhibits that express New Zealand's history. My favorite part, if I'm being completely honest, was walking along the Wellington seaside wharf. Some of the most gorgeous views of the city and the sea can be seen from the boardwalk on the wharf!

After our museum adventure we grabbed a beer and sat along the seaside before heading off to shop! It was so fun seeing and experiencing this city but I was ready to board our ferry for the South Island!

As we approached our port we picked up our friend Lauren and headed to the boat! I was blown away with how HUGE our ferry was. It was basically a cruise ship! I have never been on a large boat before and I have to admit I was a little worried. We headed to find comfy seats by the snack area and bar, claiming couches and a table! Score! Then we were off for a 3 hour ferry ride. We had been warned that the ferry can be terrifyingly rough, even throw people from their seats due to rough seas. Thank god this didn't happen to us! It was pretty smooth sailing and we even made it to Picton without anyone losing dinner!

When we made it to shore we were picked up by our hostel. Upon walking in the door we were given warm apple crumble and vanilla bean ice cream. This little hostel is absolutely gorgeous! It's a little colorful house with pink walls and gorgeous wood floors! I'm already in love with this place and I know so much is to come!

Tomorrow we catch our Stray Bus for our massive trip!! Wish us luck :)

Two Week Holiday: Wellington

We flew into Wellington last night. After having been warned that the winds can make the flight impossible, I had been anxious all day. I was so glad it was smoothish! I guess when you are expecting an awful flight anything is better!! I think Jordan and Cassie might be regretting booking a trip with this anxious flier!!

When we got to Wellington we grabbed a taxi to our hostel before heading out to dinner. We stopped at a flash little bar that had the BEST burger I may have ever experienced! YUM!
Today we started with a delicious breakfast at a local cafe! I've never had a more delicious muffin and mocha! Then we hit the town! After shopping and exploring with a short ride on the hillside trolly, we decided we were sick of the rain. Off we went to Weta Museum (roof=no rain)!!

The Weta museum holds archived props from Lord of the Rings, Avatar, The Hobbit, District 9 and many more! After spending about 20 minutes we realized we had seen everything...TWICE...so off we went on our next adventure.
Being three brilliantly stupid girls we decided to try to walk back to a cool theatre called the Roxy. (Preface it had been raining cats and dogs all afternoon, we were all drenched and exhausted). We took off thinking we knew the way. After 40 minutes, a shortcut through a school and a bunch of laughter as the rain literally pelted off our foreheads, we finally made it to the Roxy theatre. It was pretty but at this point we were all exhausted and ready for a nap. We headed back to our hostel to unwind before dinner!

Sleeping took precedence and we all passed out for hours. The rest of our night was spent with subway and a movie in.
Today we woke up to gorgeous weather, suddenly we all had a little more pep in our step. It's amazing what the lack of rain can do for a persons psyche! We headed off to the pier for a coffee and muffin on the water! I am so excited for today and can't wait for the rest of this trip to get started! We will be taking a 3 hour ferry ride tonight to the South Island! And tomorrow starts our bus tour!! Keep you updated!!! Love you all!!

Birthday Girl!

         

           What a spoiled little birthday brat I am!!! I have just had an amazing day filled with children singing happy birthday, a dinner out with my family away from home, and a major change in school that is going to give me some room to breathe and enjoy the rest of my time here.  Overall this day was incredible!

            I woke up this morning and immediately facetimed Brian.  I knew if I could facetime him before school I could catch him between classes, and then I could facetime my parents at lunch at school because my dad would be home from work by then (is it not crazy how messed up being halfway around the world is?!)  It was the perfect way to start my birthday!! It’s amazing how comforted you feel by talking to your boyfriend and parents. 

            When I walked upstairs for breakfast, my host family immediately shouted happy birthday and began singing to me! It was so so sweet!!  Next they brought out a whole bag of individually wrapped gifts (compliments to Emma who begged Tanya to wrap each gift individually).  I was blown away by all of the meaningful gifts they gave me.  I received two beautiful cards, a stuffed animal Kiwi Bird (one of the national birds of New Zealand), New Zealand magnets, a deck of cards for my two week trip (and to teach my host family how to play euchre since I’ve been blabbing about how much fun it is), key chains, a gorgeous wooden sign that says “Aotearoa” (New Zealand in Maori), and this incredible “love” bead for a Pandora bracelet that is only made in New Zealand.  Oh and of course, my addiction here, CADEBERRY CHOCOLATES!!! I was so touched that it took a lot not to cry on the spot.

            I then headed off to school.  I got to see an ESOL class, and a Reading Recovery class, which was amazing!! I learned so much!  But the best part of my day had to have been the meeting I had with my assistant principal.  I have been having a lot of trouble with my host teacher. Long story short, my time here has been a bit miserable as far as teaching is concerned.  After talking to my assistant principal on Monday (I actually stood up for myself for once!!!) I was told today that I am able to move rooms!  As if Tanya was not already my guardian angel, she is going to be my new host teacher!!!!! I GET TO TEACH A BRAND NEW CLASS OF NEW ENTRANCE KIDDOS (kindergarteners-my favorite age!!!!).  The school system is set up differently here so every child starts school on their 5^th birthday.  So this class will be starting school for the first time EVER after my two week break!!!! I am so beyond excited and blessed!!!  Again I will say TANYA IS MY GUARDIAN ANGEL!

            As if my day wasn’t already perfect, Nick drove the family and I into Takapuna for dinner at an authentic New York Style pizza place called Sal’s!!  I got a little slice of home-pun intended! I ate pizza, drank beer and enjoyed the first night of being 23!!! Every day I am here I know I am so blessed to be in the host family I am in.  I cannot express the love they have shown for me and the support in all of the difficulties I have had abroad.  Although I miss home everyday and wish I could have spent my birthday with Brian and my family, I have a second family here and they made today the perfect day.  I love and miss you all! Today is officially the halfway point of my trip, so be ready because this traveling girl only has 6 weeks left!!!!

Pinch me I must be dreaming...

            

            Today was incredible!! I started off the day FaceTiming my mom and talking on the phone with my dad.  Isn’t it amazing how right the world can feel again just by talking to your parents?  After chatting, Nick drove me to the bus stop to catch a bus into the city.  I got to meet up with Jordan, Cassie and Allison to plan our two week holiday!  After some annoying set backs we finally booked our two week trip! We will officially be going on the Stray Bus Short Willy Bus Trip of the south island! (here it is: http://www.straytravel.com/explore-your-pass-options/stray-hop-on-hop-off/south-island-passes/short-willy-pass/)

            After booking everything we had a quick lunch and then headed off to the museum.  Cassie and I were the only ones that headed to New Market to see the Auckland War Museum (Jordan had something come up and Allison was meeting friends).  So Cassie and I got to explore this incredible museum.  The Auckland Museum is filled with Maori artifacts.  I got to walk inside a sacred Maori house, touch a Waaka (war canoe) and even sit through an earthquake simulator! Such a fun day exploring! I couldn’t have asked for better!

            After having a quick dinner, Cassie and I caught a bus to Eden Park for the Blues v. Hurricanes (from Wellington, NZ) game! Tanya and Nick offered Cassie one of the family passes, so Cassie and I were able to got into the family room again! I am starting to think I am a very spoiled person.  After that we went to our seats and watched an incredible win against the Hurricanes! It was such a fun game to watch! Then, of course, we went to get autographs from the players! I even got an autograph from an ALL BLACK! The longer I am here the more honored I feel to have had such incredible experiences.  I know I am so lucky and blessed.

            After getting many autographs (I swear I have the whole teams signature basically)  Nick offered to take us into the CEO suite!! Cassie and I entered the suite dumb-struck.  As we grabbed a wine, we settled into the “flash” (gorgeous, beautiful, popular) crowd, Tanya pointed out that we were sharing air with Auckland’s Mayor, the CEO of the Blues, and former All Black’s captains.  I think the look on my face may have given away how star-struck I was.  I got to meet the CEO of the Blues and not only that but stand in a suite that only managers and executives of the team and their families stand.  I felt so honored.

            As if that wasn’t enough, we headed back to the family room to wait for the players arrival.  I got to stand in the same room as the starters of the Blues.  I watched and even talked to some of them!!!! My life is ridiculous and I can’t believe that I am standing on New Zealand soil, let alone rubbing elbows and swapping stories with the most famous rugby players in New Zealand.  Least to say, I feel so blessed and cannot wait to see what is ahead!!!  I hope everyone is doing well! Know that I think about all of you daily! All my love is sent your way!!

            

Hot Air Balloon Festival?

          This weekend was interesting to say the least.  Cassie, Jordan, “The Morgans” and I decided to jet off to Hamilton, New Zealand for a Hot Air Balloon festival.  We rented a car and learned first-hand what driving in a different country is like! I can now say, I successfully drove half of the way to Hamilton! It was weird to not only be on the opposite side of the car, but to drive on the opposite side of the road!!! We giggled the whole way because the turn signal is also on the right and not the left! Every time I hit the windshield wipers instead of the turn signal!   Somehow we made it safely into Hamilton! To preface, according to Jordan's host family Hamilton is the SDT capital of New Zealand. We knew this place was not known for its beauty...just food for thought as you read!

            We got all settled in our hostel which was extremely nice! I am still amazed that I can sleep somewhere for $27! Sweet (or as they say here “sweet as”).  After dropping off our packs, we headed to explore the town! We had lunch at a little pub.  I had the most delicious BLT and of course some incredible beer! We kept wondering through pubs throughout the afternoon.  Around 3:30 we decided to walk to the college where this festival was.  An hour later, after following some high schoolers who took us through some short cuts, we made it to the grounds! Rides and fair food everywhere, but no balloons…curious.  We decided not to stick around and left for another pub to wait until the night where there would be a “glow” festival of the balloons lit up.

            We grabbed the tiniest margarita’s I have ever seen at a local and very expensive Mexican restaurant, and then had dinner and drinks at yet another pub!  Finally it was 8:30 and the festival should be back on, so we caught a cab back to the festival!  We were adventurous and even wondered into a house party! It was just like a frat live out at home and made us laugh a little to be back in the college atmosphere.  Finally making it to the festival……..WE MISSED THE WHOLE THING!!!! We made it barely in time to see a really crappy firework show.  I don’t think I’ve laughed more at myself than I did this weekend!  I mean really?! We drove 2 hours for a festival we didn’t even see?! I didn’t even see ONE BALLOON!!! Still laughing as I write this!

            Having missed the fun, we started heading back with the thousands of people walking in the streets.  We weren’t going to walk all the way back again because it would just add insult to injury to have to walk after seeing NOTHING so we stopped at a pool bar and played some pool and had some drinks to let the traffic clear. 

            Finally we made it back to the city center to hit the town! We had some drink vouchers and ended up doing Hamilton BIG! We laughed and danced and pretended we were just college kids again!  It was such a blast! Our disappointment changed to hilarity and we have chalked this whole weekend up to a “good story for our blogs”.  No we didn’t get to see balloons, yes we did drive 2 hours to go to pubs that we could do at home, BUT we had fun and if the only thing I remember from this weekend is the god-awful breakfast we all had this morning, it was still worth it because I got to see another part of New Zealand!  What a weekend! Now I’m sure you have all laughed at my disappointing blog but I hope it made you smile! Lots of love to you all from New Zealand! 

My First Rugby Game-The Blues!!

         Tonight I got a real treat! I was able to go to my first Blues rugby game in Eden Park.  My host dad is the high performance manager for the team and they offered for me to come along to the game and sit in the family and friends section.  This means that I was sitting with all of the players families!!! I even got a special pass to sit and go into the family venues!  I felt so cool and so touched that my host family would offer for me to come experience this with them, especially since this is my host dad’s job and career!

            When we first got to Eden Park, which is the Blues home field, we went into the family lounge.  This lounge is made only for players and staff families (how lucky am I?!)  We had a drink and relaxed with some of the other players faimilies before going out and finding our seats.  Tanya and Nick were kind enough to take TONS of pictures for me, so we stopped a few times on the way to our seats for prime photo ops!

            Once we were seated, the game began! The Blues had a rough start but we ended up pulling through in the second half to win! It was such an exciting game and I truly enjoyed every moment! I am starting to learn a little bit more about rugby and actually really enjoy it because in many ways it is like football but the game moves much quicker because they don’t stop between plays but continue to pass the ball! So fun to watch!!

            After the game Nick took us to where we could get autographs and meet the players! I was able to get three different autographs and pictures with three separate players! I was so excited and terrified because I have this awful habit of getting extremely star-struck and being very very shy.  But I managed to pull through and ended up with some great autographs to prove it!

            As if I didn’t already have a big head and think I was cool enough, Nick took us back into the family lounge where we could wait again with the families of the players to congratulate the team.  Unfortunately, after 2 hours of waiting the team still hadn’t finished their locker room chat so we headed home! It was still amazing to be a part of that VIP experience and I am so beyond grateful for such an incredible night! 

           Tomorrow I am off to a hot air balloon festival with all of my girls, so I must head to bed! This week has been a whirlwind of fun and first-times! I cannot wait for what the weekend holds! Goodnight, from New Zealand!

            

Learning to Sail

           

          Today was another incredible day.  I am starting to pinch myself every morning to make sure I am not dreaming! I was able to tag along with the year 5 and 6 classes today for their Waterwise sailing program. Yes I said SAILING!!!!  I boarded the bus with 22 excited 10 year olds and headed off to Torbay! As we drove up to the gorgeous waters, 30 little sailboats lay beached on the sand.  I started to get so excited for what the day was going to hold! 

            I have never been sailing before and didn’t think I would make the best skipper, so I was slightly relieved to find out that I was only going to help man the rescue boat!  With a motor and no need for skill, I was exactly where I fit!  The morning was spent teaching students how to move their sails and rudder to move their little boats.  I was able to get a full lesson on what sailing means simply by listening to the instructors out on the water.  I am surprised daily about the amount of time spent in “outdoor education”.  This idea that learning can be hands-on and often occurs outside of the classroom is refreshing and exactly how I want to teach!

            There were three different sessions of sailing.  The first session went very smoothly, with just the right amount of wind.  The second session had a wonderful start, but ended in chaos because we lost the wind.  The five rescue boats had to then tow 30 different sailboats back into the beach.  With kids screaming and laughing and trying to capsize their boats while tied to the motor, it is a miracle everyone arrived safely to shore! The last group finally got some incredible wind and we ended up far out into the ocean.  I was so impressed by these little people and their innate capability.  They battled huge waves, changing winds and rain and still managed to have a successful trip out and back to shore. Had I been in a sailboat I am sure I would have been lost to sea!

            As the weeks go on, I am being reminded every day how precious a child’s mind is.  So many times I think we forget that 10 year olds are only 10.  They aren’t authors, historians or mathematicians yet.  They are simply kids.   It has been fun to be involved in such an open school philosophy, where kids curious minds are put to test in real life scenarios and inquiry.  I am being challenged and stretched in ways I never imagined and am better for.  I truly hope I can bring back this freedom, inquiry and hands-on learning to my future classroom.