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!
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