Friday, February 12, 2010

A family away from home

Things in New Zealand are off to a great start (other than Rachel calling me a creep all the time)! I'm starting to feel more adjusted, I will get my missing bag back today, I finally shaved my legs so I don't have to wear pants in the warm weather-overall I'm just having a great time. Yesterday was a really good day. In the morning Robbie's wife, Christine, took me shopping. I managed to get most of the things I need, such as sheets, towels, a computer cord, and a cell phone. Then in the afternoon I was around Susan's house, I worked on planning my timetable, then went for a walk. In the evening Susan and I headed back to Robbie's house for dinner. Susan cook a delicious mac and cheese, then we headed out for a walk. (I know I should have brought my camera, sorry...) This included me, Robbie, Susan, Katrina (12), Reuben (15) and Isaac (9). We walked over near a beach, where we stopped for a while to overturn rocks looking for crabs (which we found, in large quantities). After a while of playing, it was getting dark so we headed home-only to be distracted by a play structure, where we stayed for another 30 minutes. I had a wonderful time playing with the kids, and was touched when Katrina asked if I would come back for her birthday party in April. Now I am about to head off to the beach with them! I'll be sure to take some pictures today.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Arrival in Auckland

4 rounds of airport security (each of which resulted in by bag being checked, once for a pack of batteries I had, once for something that looked like an aerosol can, and twice for a small pair of scissors in my first aid kit), 3 sets of customs, four airplane rides, and one missing suitcase later- I have made it to Auckland! I am staying in South Auckland with a lovely lady named Susan, who is an old friend of an old work contact of my dad's, until the 15th, when I will be able to move into my on campus flat.
For now, I'm about to head off on a walk so I can familiarize myself with this area, and most likely get lost!

Monday, February 8, 2010

The journey begins

Here I am, at the Portland airport. Enjoying the free Wi-Fi PDX offers, and about to head to Los Angeles, and then to Melbourne, and then to Sydney, and then finally to Auckland. I'm a mere 36ish (miserable) hours away from beginning my 4+ months in New Zealand. I managed to get my visa and pack everything at the last minute, and I'm certain I forgot several things, but I'm off! 
Goodbye everyone, I'll talk to you from the other side of the world!