samm

Hanging out with Colin

2007-04-18T19:13:00.000+12:00

Well, after 2 hours of trying to connect at the airport, missing each other several times, Colin and I finally managed to meet up. In case I forget to mention to anyone, Colin and I arranged to meet while he was/is here in NZ, and so far we haven't killed each other (which we both thought was likely to happen within a matter of hours!) So we headed from Auckland to Thames our first day, and after some serious persuasion, I managed to convince him that staying in a hostel dorm room was a good idea- lucky for him we stayed in a 7 person dorm where we were the only people staying the night. We didn't do too much on our first day, other than get lost several times in a small town- I am a terrible map reader, aren't you all glad that you aren't driving home with me next month!!! So we hung out with some fellow backpackers in our Dawson City styles hostel, and we each polished off our half of the 18 pack of beer- good thing it was only 4%!! We woke up today, made some breakfast, luckily seeing the millions of ants on the counter after we cooked our food, and headed out for our drive to Coromandel Town. It was a very twisty ride, which doesn't sit well with my motion sensitivity, and after an hour+ drive, and 54 kms (very slow going!) we arrived. We decided on a few activities; a train ride and a stop at Waiau Waterworks for the day. We went to the Waterworks first, which was incredibly fun- they had rides to do, including a large hamster wheel for humans, and some really neat creations that ran on water. Again, I took lots of pics, but everyone will have to wait until I post them (should likely happen at mom and dads) Then we headed to the Driving Creek Railway, where we took a train up the hill and got to see the Coromandel at a great view. The owner of the railway is also a potter, so there we interesting pottery pieces all along the railway line. So that's where we're at- thought that I should post to let everyone know that we are both still alive, at least until this point!!!

I forgot!

2007-04-15T10:37:00.000+12:00

I also got to go sand boarding yesterday- basically you walk up a hill, and slide down on a boogie board- it was great. the only crappy thing was walking up the hill....man I am getting lazy! I just wanted to add that last piece of excitement to my last post.....

Northland

2007-04-14T18:16:00.000+12:00

Hey everyone!
I am in Paihia now, spending my last week and half seeing the last few places that I haven't seen in New Zealand! It's really beautiful here- though today we headed to Cape Reinga ( I think I spelled that wrong!) and it was amazing. I got to stand on the most northern tip of New Zealand, well the most northern accessible place anyway! We got to drive up 90 mile beach -which is really only 64 miles, though if you want to know why the name, google it, I don't feel like typing the story! The beach runs along the Tasmanian Sea, and we go to see where the Tasmanian Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, and the view from the Lighthouse was incredible. Overall, and even though we had to catch the bus at 7:15am, it was still a great day! Tomorrow I am heading back to Auckland, sigh, and then I am heading to the Coromandal as my last chance to see something new before I leave NZ! I have more to talk about, though I am not in mood to type, so I will write more soon!

A beautiful day!

2007-04-09T18:54:00.000+12:00

Well today a group of us headed for the beach to take advantage of the amazing weather! We went to a place called Piha, and it's the most amazing beach that I have seen- it was perfect! I even went into the ocean for a swim and some lame attempts at body surfing. While it seems hard to believe, and everyone has bugged me about it all day, today was the first time that I can recall swimming in the ocean- I didn't even go in when I was in Australia where it's warm!!! I did have a great time, and am sending a big thanks to Faye, Jessica and Catherine for basically forcing me in!!! As today was Easter Sunday, I tried to make a connection with Stacey and the girls, but I seems that the service en route to Piha is bad, so sorry about losing you Melissa! Hope you guys had a good dinner- a homemade real dinner sounds really good right now!
I also have some more exciting news- my ipod is working! Seems that the battery died, and then it seems to have reset itself and is now in top order again! Thanks to Adam for 'fixing' it for me! I am just glad that I now have tunes for the rest of my trip!
Well, the night is young as nice, so I am going to go sit in the garden with everyone and chat!

So much to write about!

2007-04-06T20:10:00.000+12:00

It's been a while since my last post, and lots has happened, so let's give this a go! I spent until Monday evening in Byron Bay- there was a tsunami warning all along the east coast of Australia, and beaches were 'closed'. This did not seem to hinder anyone in Byron Bay from taking advantage of the amazing day, and the beach was still packed- hate to say it, but I too was one of those people who ignored the warning. Nothing came of it all though, by that I mean that the tsunami did not reach the east coast, so I witnessed none of the devastation that was the result. Monday night I boarded my shuttle back to Surfer's Paradise, and got stuck in a room with three girls and a guy who were SO loud when they returned from the bar, that for the first time on my trip I got mad at those in my room. Needless to say that after a broken sleep, I was up early and getting my ticket to Dreamland, a theme park in Surfers. I only ended up going on one ride (it was the only one that appealed to me- the park held nothing to Canada's Wonderland!) though I did get my picture taken with a very cute animal- I got to hold a koala bear for a photo- while it's obvious in the pic that I am super tired and hot, the koala looks super cute! After Dreamworld I took the bus back to my hostel to gather my things and jump on another bus to the airport. After about an hour on the bus I arrived at the airport, and spent some time reading before my flight- which was uneventful as they usually are! I got into Christchurch at 11:20, and after a very long shuttle ride involving a family of 4 kids under the age of 7, I arrived at my hostel at 12:40. I promptly dropped off my stuff and headed out to meet up with some friends that I hadn't seen since January. The night was fairly short,though after the day that I had had, I was beat! In the morning I was up around 9, and got ready to hit the road with a friend who I travelled all the way back up to Auckland with- saves me taking the bus, which was GREAT!!! The drive through the rest of the south island was fairly uneventful, and then it was time for the ferry- three hours of sea sickness! Well, it wasn't that bad, but part way through I was feeling the effects of the ocean! I got to see a bunch of dolphins swimming and jumping in the ocean and before long we were in Wellington! WE drove for another bunch of hours to reach Taupo, where I again was so tired that I fell asleep in no time! Today we headed for Rotorua, where I got to do the Zorb (rolling down a hill in a huge plastic ball with water inside- it was incredible!! The Zorb is located in a place called the Agrodorm, and wouldn't you know it, but there was a woolen mill there too- needless to say that I have now purchased another 2 kilos (4.4 lbs) of wool to post back to Canada- the price was right, how could I say no!!! Mom sent me an email the other day to let me know that my spinning wheel and hand dyed wool had arrived safe and sound in SK, so I am going to be spending some quality time with my wheel and my now 4 kilos of wool! Tonight I am back at the Brown Kiwi, where it all started, talking to people that have been here since I was here last- catching up with old friends- on that note, I should get back out there and chat- just wanted to update this thing as I was terribly behind!

hitting the beaches...man it's hot today!

2007-03-30T12:51:00.000+12:00

Well I have spent the last 2 days on the beach, and other than getting sand everywhere it's been great! It is only 10:50 and it's already super hot outside, so I can just imagine how it's going to be this afternoon. Today has the feel of the hottest day since I got here! I am also going to take my surf lessons on Sunday, while I am excited, I am also a little hesitant- I'm not the strongest swimmer, so we'll see!! Byron Bay is a great little town, and I am realizing that I prefer to spend time in smaller cities than the large ones- they always seem to have more character. Since this town is all about surfing and the beach, it's really relaxed and pleasant to be in- no big rush to get anywhere!
I only have a few more days here in Byron Bay, I am planning on leaving Monday, heading back to surfers paradise, and then getting some tickets to an amusement park- thankfully my flight back to New Zealand isn't until 18:15, so I get almost a whole day! Then it's three more weeks in New Zealand, and off to Toronto for Stefi's wedding. I am really looking forward to seeing the Sesti family and Sarah, it's going to be a great weekend! After that, I am flying to Saskatchewan and catching up with mom and dad and am going to see how much my dog hates me for abandoning her! Then comes the fun part though, the 3000 km drive from Saskatchewan to home- YIKES!!!
Well, I am off to another stressful day at the beach- life is rough!

Byron Bay

2007-03-28T12:18:00.000+12:00

I am currently in Byron Bay, a cute little town (same size as Whitehorse, but much nicer!) that is on the beach. As today is the first nice day since I got to Australia, I am going to spend some much needed time doing nothing in the sun!
Last night was great- I met up with Linn and Christian, friends from the Paradiso in NZ, and it was the perfect night to get a little crazy! We spent part of the time catching up and talking about all the crazy antics that we got up to in NZ, then headed out for the night. While it's always fun to hang out, it was more fun just chilling and laughing! Today they are off, so who knows if I will ever see them again- they do want to come to Canada (and go hunting with Dustin in SK!!) so perhaps I will see them then!
Now I get to complain! I hate Ipods. That's right, another problem with my ipod- it doesn't freaking work! It was fine the other day, then yesterday when I went to use it- nothing. I am getting really tired of going through this, and if it wasn't for the fact that they replace them, I wouldn't have one- there has to be a better MP3 player out there that will last more than 4 months (since that is how long this ipod lasted!!) Grrr, it is making me very agitated! K, I feel better having vented- now I get to deal with them!
Otherwise though all is well!!! I am switching hostels today, going to meet some other people that I know from Surfers Paradise, and stay at the same hostel as them (that's how I ended up at this one!) This one is a little bit out of town though, and I want one that I can walk to the beach in a few minutes, which I can't here! Anyway, I am running out of internet time (aren't I always?!) so I am going to run! Not that I am counting down, but I will be home in less that 2 months now- and I can't remember if I mentioned it, but I still have my job when I get home, so that's a good thing!!!!

In Australia

2007-03-25T19:36:00.000+12:00

Well, after a 2 hour delay, a 2 hour time change and a 4 hour flight, I have made it to the Gold Coast! I am staying at a pretty cool hostel, and am stuck in a room with 4 guys- at least they are cool, so it's not so bad! I didn't get to the hostel until about 20:00, and there was this event going on, where backpackers all went out together and did a pub crawl type thing- needless to say that I was more than willing to join in after my long day! The night was fun- it's so warm here (which sucks in out non-air conditioned room at night!) Today was overcast, so that kept me from the beach today- hoping tomorrow will be better! I am heading to Byron Bay on Tuesday, ans so are my current roommates, so I might be stuck with them longer! Actually it's nice to meet people straight away who you get along with, it makes it so much easier! Well, since I haven't been here for 24 hours yet, I don't have too much to write, though will post more later!

my favourite purchase!

2007-03-23T15:21:00.000+12:00

Well, today I managed to spend lots of money, though it's my fav purchase so far- that's right, I bought myself a new spinning wheel! I actually went to where the wheels are made, in Ashburton, so now I can say that I bought my wheel directly from the company (Ashford). Mom and I have been trying to figure out if it made more sense for me to buy here or in Canada, and though we found a place to buy them in Canada, they weren't too helpful, so I decided to buy here. The ladies at Ashford craftvillage were super helpful, and made the experience enjoyable. I was able to get the wheel at a sort of discount (no GST which is 12.5% here) and they also through in the wool I was planning on buy and some extra parts 'just in case'. I ended up with about $30 of free stuff, and am super excited to try out my new wheel. Now before anyone asks, the price isn't important- I really wanted the wheel, and that's all that matters! At this time, the wheel is en route to Eastend Sk, and this in one thing I don't have to worry about mom getting into- she can't spin! Well, I am going to head out- ran into some friends from Queenstown a while ago, and I am going to hang out with them for the night- good thing my flight isn't early tomorrow!

Kaikoura

2007-03-21T14:40:00.000+12:00

Well I am in Kaikoura, which a great little coastal town just north of Christchurch. I got a ride up here with some people that I met in Christchurch- I am not getting too much use out of that bus pass that I bought! The first night we spent the night in tents along the beach, and it was great. We had a decent sized bonfire, and got to listen to the waves hit the beach. It was so peaceful- until the first train went by- seems that we sent up our tents VERY close to the train tracks!!! It wasn't so bad, and I only recall one train going by! I got a ride back into town, and checked into a hostel for a couple days. Yesterday I didn't do much, and that was fine with me! Today I rented a bike- that's right, I rented a bicycle! I bikes for about 30-40 minutes out to a seal colony and got pretty close to some lazy seals. After a while of walking around and a short trek up to the view point, I decided to head home. That's when me and the bike had issues- it was making my butt really sore, and I was not impressed! All in all it was a great experience; this in no way means that I will be joining a bike relay or anything!! Now I am just checking my email, still trying to figure the best way to buy my spinning wheel, and make plans for the next few weeks. On that note I am off!

Christchurch

2007-03-18T11:02:00.000+12:00

Well I arrived Friday here in Christchurch(after a 9 hour bus ride!)- it's a lovely town with beautiful stone buildings and is known as the garden city of NZ- and for good reason! Friday I hung out with Dustin and Sheena and caught up on all the going ons of late. I shared all my wool stories (Dustin was polite enough to listen, though likely couldn't have cared less!) and they talked of their travels and funny things that had happened to them. It was really great to see them again, and it made the buds ride worth it! Friday was a relatively early night for us, as Saturday was going to be a big day! After a late start Saturday morning, we headed into town to check out the markets and listen to music in the park. It was also the first nice day that I have seen in a long time(+28), so it was nice to be outside for it! I was beginning to think that I wasn't going to see any nice weather! After the park we headed back to the hostel to get ready to got a rugby game- as I know nothing about the sport, it was a little hard to follow, and I'm not going to lie to you, I found it boring! We went with 2 bus loads of other backpackers, so the spectators were more fun to watch than the game was! We left the stadium just after 9, then headed to another hostel to have a few drinks with some people that Sheena and Dustin had met previously. Well it wasn't too long before we were all ready to head back to our hostel- they had to catch 07:00 planes this morning, and I was just plain tired! It was day light savings last night, so even though we got an extra hour, I think we were all in bed by about 23:00 0r 00:00- it's sad really! So this morning I said goodbye to the Hickes, who are now off to Fiji for a couple weeks before returning to Canada. I thought that I would be stuck here is Christchurch for the week, but there are some other people from the hostel who are heading to Kaikoura, which is where I wanted to go, and I think that I am going to hitch a ride with them! They are leaving Monday and coming back Friday or Saturday. I need to return on Friday though, so that I can get to the bank, so I might need to bus it one way- we'll see! So I am sitting at some internet cafe, and it's a beautiful day outside, so I should go enjoy it! Will post again soon and thanks everyone for all the comments, it's great to hear from all of you- seems like a long time until I get home mid-May still, though I am not trying to rush my holiday!
Ciao

a day with the spinning group

2007-03-15T20:48:00.000+13:00

So today I went with 20 other women, most of them much older than me, though all of them weavers and spinners, on a day trip to many interesting places. We started by going to the Mill, which is where special ordered and commercial yarn is produced- after seeing all that goes into making that lovely ball of yarn in the store, I now know why is costs so much! It was such an interesting and eye opening experience- I took pics, though I doubt anyone would be interested in seeing them other and me and Gen! After this we went to an alpaca farm, where they have 140 alpacas!!! We got to see different types of fleece and learn about alpaca fiber- again, no one would likely be interested other than Gen and I! We also went to different weaving studios, as well as this amazing artist studio where artist, Angela Micchum, works her magic- and magic it is. She makes some of the most amazing pieces of art using all sorts of different things- anywhere from sand to silk to wax to plaster- how inspiring! I now have some cool ideas for things that I want to try when I get home!
I also saw the creepiest thing ever today- I went to the washroom, where there were clear toilet seats with RAZOR blades in them- who thinks of these things?!
I am now also looking into buying my first spinning wheel....I have some amazing wool that needs to be spun (that's right, my dyeing turned out great!) that I am sending to my parents house tomorrow (keep and eye out for that huh mom?? I am getting a tracking number this time....hopefully it gets there before me!)
Well, I am sure that I am missing things, but I am going to get going- this is my last night here with Biddy and Russell, and I don't want to spend it on the computer!
Tomorrow I am off to Christchurch tomorrow to meet up with Dustin and Sheena, as they are flying out to Fiji Sunday and I want to see them off!
Will post again soon!

dye dye dye!

2007-03-14T18:10:00.000+13:00

well, things are moving along fast here in Gore, where I experience some of the busiest days that I have had since getting to New Zealand! We continue to work with fleeces, waiting patiently for them to dry- the weather here is wet and cold ( I may as well be at home!) and they are taking days instead of hours to dry- ooh well!
Yesterday I spend the day making knitting needles- sounds like a strange thing, but there's lots to it! After making the needles, we got to be creative and make fimo tops (ends) for them- after a day of hunching over a table and rolling fimo I was left with a very sore back, as well as some really great looking needles!
Today we spent the day natural dyeing as well as using more fun and colorful chemical dyes- those where for me! I am currently waiting to see how my wool has turned out- I can't wait to see it! I am also researching spinning wheels and trying to get my hands on one while I am still here with Biddy and can take advantage of all her knowledge! Well, it's almost dinner and I need to go check on my dyed wool- wish me luck.....!

wool wool wool!

2007-03-12T20:47:00.000+13:00

well, it's been a while since I last posted, and lots has gone on.....here we go!
After my crappy attempt at spinning I was feeling discouraged, and decided to take a short break from the wheel. The next day after helping Biddy around the house, I spent the afternoon and evening with my old faithful knitting needles....I can rarely go wrong there! The next day I got to learn another key aspect to the production of wool- carding. Thankfully this is an easy task, and I was delighted to find I was good at it (though I can't see how anyone could be otherwise!) I spent late morning and afternoon over that carding machine, and did I get a lot of work done! Biddy's spinning club (www.creativefibre.org.nz) is putting together a hand dyed, spun and knitted rug for a raffle, and I got to participate in way of carding a large quantity of the dyed wool. After many hours, and several ibuprofen later (man it's hard in the right shoulder!) I completed almost all the carding and decided to call it a day!
One afternoon Biddy also took me out to hunt down different plants for natural dyeing. Now these have to sit, and after 4 days we still haven't used them, but they are now boiled, simmered, and we are going to dig in on Wednesday....who knows how that will turn out......
This past weekend I got to go with Biddy to the Queenstown market. Saturday morning I was up at 05:20 and we were on the road at 06:00. After a two hour drive that consisted of Biddy driving and my chin reaching for my chest, we arrived in Queenstown. The setting up of the market is both bizarre and long, so we'll skip that part and talk about the day- and what a day it was! There were tons of tourists everywhere, music, and a lot of wool sold that day. This was also the day that I decided to attempt my hand at spinning again- after all, that is why I am wwoofing no?! Let me just say, that I may not have had beginners luck, but my second time around I was spinning like a pro- a pro of maybe a few months, but a pro none the less! The improvement in my skill was amazing, and I was glad to see that I am able to spin wool of a fairly consistent size- ooh the first attempt was bad! That night, after a very successful though tiring day, at the market, Biddy and I headed over to this great Thai restaurant for some tea (NZ term for dinner.....I don't get it, but....!) After dinner we headed to Biddy's friend's flat where she (Biddy) stays on the weekends that she heads to Queenstown for market. It was a great little place that looked over the lake, and was out of the way, away from the bustle of the city. I fell asleep at 7: 30 that night. Was I ever tired.
Sunday was more reasonable, only having to get up at 07:00, instead of 05:20. The day was much slower, though I still got to spin- better every time- and people watch as the strolled by. After the day we packed up and headed for home. We got in my 7:30, had tea, and watched some tv then headed for bed.
Today was a very busy day. I learned how to skirt fleeces, and got to see first hand how much prep work goes into different things that you can do with a fleece. I learned how you treat a fleece that is going to be shipped internationally (Biddy has an order from Japan) as well as how to prepare a fleece that gets sent out for a wash and carding. let me say now that I am all for sending out a fleece for a wash and carding- there's so much work in doing it yourself! I got to learn about different fibres and what's good for what though, and I am really grateful for getting first hand knowledge and work experience on this.
Well, tomorrow promises to be another busy day of working with more fleece, so I should pack in and get ready for bed.......

my first go at spinning!

2007-03-06T22:47:00.000+13:00

Well, I am now in Gore NZ, staying with a great couple- Biddy and Russell. Biddy is what you would call a fiber guru- man she knows a lot! I have only been here one night and I have already had a go at the spinning wheel, and will be using my first batch of wool/yarn tomorrow- that's right, I am amazing! Actually, turns out that I do not have beginners luck at learning to spin, and my first go definitely is going to need some work- now I have a goal! I have been talking to Biddy about purchasing a spinning wheel, and she has agreed to help me research the best one for me should I decide to buy one (which I likely will- it's quite a good time!) Otherwise things are pretty quiet, which is great! I will write more as my time goes on!

Still hanging out in Queenstown!

2007-03-03T14:15:00.000+13:00

So we are all still in Queenstown- Wednesday we headed to a national park called Milford Sound- it was amazing! We got picked up at 8:15 (which was rough since we didn't get home until 4am that morning!) by our bus, and were on our way. We had a great driver, Karen, who was very knowledgeable on NZ and also had a great sense of humor! We got to see some beautiful landscape, and made various stops to see attractions along the way to Milford Sound. The whole park is made up of mountains and hundreds of waterfalls- its strange to see so much land with no large animals anywhere. NZ doesn't have an native mammals except the bat, so there are no bears, moose etc. There are deer, but they were imported in, and lots are farmed, rather than in the wild. There are lots of rabbits and possums, though that also means that there is a LOT of roadkill. NZ people aim for possums in their cars like Saskatchewan people aim for gophers! After the bus ride there, we went out on a boat to see waterfalls and seals, all of which were beautiful and so worth the long bus ride. The ride home was much quicker, though we did stop to take pics of the Kea- a parrot found in NZ- who like to land on cars and eat the weatherstripping- makes people agitated! We didn't get home until 9:30 that night, though the day was definitely worth it- a great time!
Yesterday we went lugging- what a rush! You get going so fast, and its so fun! There were 6 of us who went, so we all had chances to gain up on one another. Louise, a girl who stays in our room at the hostel works there, so we even got a free ride out of the deal. Perfect!
We are staying here for another night, then heading to Dunedin. I bus down to a town called Gore on Monday to my next farm, and I am really excited! If I don't post again before, I will post from Gore!

Queenstown

2007-02-28T13:33:00.000+13:00

Well I am now in Queenstown NZ. This is located towards the south of the south island. It's a beautiful town that is beside a lake and is nestled in mountains- an amazing view! Tomorrow we are going to Milford Sound, which is supposed to be one, if not the most, beautiful places in NZ- guess I will find out tomorrow. I head to my farm on Monday in Gore, and I am really looking forward to it. I don't have too much to update on right now, so I will post more later!

What a trip!

2007-02-20T20:38:00.000+13:00

I spent the last 2 days in an amazing place- Abel Tasman. I headed there with Dustin and Sheena, and after catching the bus at 6:55 am on Monday we were en route to the park. We arrived and after paying got onto another bus which winded it's way along a very twisty road- not too good for those of us (me!) that get motion sickness! After about 20 minutes of sick moments, we arrived at the location of the water taxi where we met our guide for the day- KP. We took the water taxi to where our kayaks were waiting and began getting ready for our day. Things were moving along smoothly until I got stung by a wasp- in the armpit! Did that ever hurt! After a short while we were off in the kayaks, paddling around white sand beaches in search of seals. I got to go with our guide, who was a NZ native, so I got to hear some great stories and pieces of history. I got to see my first penguin- the sad news is that it was dead in the water- KP said that they often die naturally of lack of food. As the blue penguin is nocturnal, there was little chance that I was going to see one alive. It wasn't long before we found some seals- most were being lazy, though there were a few playing around. KP then took us over to a seal breeding area, where there were lots of seals of all ages (the babies are so sweet!) and there was a lot of noise being made by the seals- it was great. After watching them, we stopped for lunch on a beautiful white beach, and had a quick swim in the sea. Back in the kayaks we headed out to sea and tried our hand at sailing the kayaks- it was great, especially since I didn't have to do hardly anything! We arrived back at Anchorage, which is where the park was that we camped at. There were some other people we knew camping there, so we all hooked up and set up tents together. We sat and ate some dinner, played some cards and I had a nap that lasted a few hours! Once up, I played some more cards, then it was time to head to the fire. We sat around talking to some different guides, and other travellers until we all agreed that it was definitely time to head to bed. The sleep was okay, though the kayak company forgot to send our foam beds, so it was kind of a hard sleep! When we woke in the morning it was unbelievably hot and sunny- not how you want to wake up in a tent! We packed up camp, and began our tramp home. We did some side walks, and after about 6 hours of walking we finally got back to our pick up location. The ride home was long, and we all smelled bad, but it was so worth it. If anyone ever comes to NZ, you MUST go to the Abel Tasman!

Sunbathing in Nelson

2007-02-15T15:27:00.000+13:00

I am still in Nelson- and having the best weather yet on my trip! This is known as one of the warmest towns, and it's great! Always fun to sit poolside and talk with people- a rough life! I still share a dorm with the three people from SK (they have names- Sheena, Dustin and Derek!) as well as two other Canadian girls (Danielle and Robin) who are from Port Hope ON. Needless to say that when the Canadians get together it's a good time- and a very loud time as we all talk lots and in loud voices! We are looking into a 2 day kayaking trip to Abel Tasman on Sunday- as it's my job to research and price check, it hasn't been done yet!!
After that, or if we don't go, I have no clue what will happen after Sunday- have to wait and see!
Well the sun and pool are calling my name- and who am I to say no?!

Nelson

2007-02-11T22:09:00.000+13:00

Well I arrived in Nelson today- and I am staying at a crazy fun hostel! There's a pool, a hot tub and a sauna- living in luxury hostel style! I share my 7 person dorm with 3 Canadians (and a German, and 2 Swedish girls!) all of whom are from Saskatchewan- so far it's been a great time, and nice to hang out and chat! Nelson seems to be a nice town- much better than Blenheim was (which was quite a dive- and come to think of it, so was the hostel!) There is lots to do here too, so I am looking forward to the Abel Tasman, kayaking and going to the beach (a hard life!) Well I am going to go back down the ladder (you have to climb a ladder to get to the computers- sounds strange but it's really cool- there's a TV room like this too!) and hang out! Will write again soon!

Oops!

2007-02-07T11:41:00.000+13:00

Well, yesterday turned out to be an expensive day for me....after passing my camera to someone while on a hike, it ended up in the ocean- needless to say, it doesn't appear to be working anymore! I am hoping that the memory card is still good (as I haven't uploaded pictures!) but I have to wait until tonight when I try it on someone else's camera- fingers crossed! The camera is currently drying in the sun- perhaps it will work- I did wash a cell phone in the washer that worked after drying out- fingers crossed!
So I am still in this squat little town of Blenheim- YIKES! Plus I am getting screwed over by my contractor, so I think it's time to head out of here soon- I think that I am going to head to Nelson- maybe try fruit picking there.....I think that I am going to work to pay for a trip to Australia for a couple weeks...though if I hate work, I am likely going to go anyway! I am looking at heading to the Gold Coast- beach and surfers for miles- DONE! I am currently waiting for a cheap flight, though there is a deal happening Feb.18 at travel agencies across NZ, so perhaps I will get a flight then! Just have to wait and see- I need a deal though, since I likely have to buy a new camera!
Otherwise things are good- not too exciting- another reason to move on!
Who knows where I will be when I post next.........

my new job- though not forever!

2007-01-31T18:56:00.000+13:00

Well I started my new job today- I am working in the vineyards in a town called Blenheim. the town is a small sad sort of town, though like all places- people can make all the difference! There are some really nice people at my hostel (all of whom work in the vineyards too- seems that that is the only reason you would come here!) I get picked up every morning at 7am- that's right, 7am and then am driven to where ever there is work to be done. Today I spent 8 hours pruning the grapes- a very simple minded task though in some ways, that is why it rocks! I am the only person who speaks English as a first language, so it makes conversation hard! I look at it like this- this gives me a great chance to learn french on my ipod! List of things that are essential for this job: ipod, lots of water, and a large container or 30+ sunscreen- I applied it three times today! Well, I should get back to the hostel- it's only 7pm here, and I am beat!

cell phone number

2007-01-29T17:50:00.000+13:00

hey everyone!
I am sitting in Wellington- NZ's capital- at the ferrie terminal, and thought that I would send a quick message! Also wanted to let everyone know that I now have a cell phone- so feel free to call or text!! The number is 02102415111...well, seems that I am almost out of time and the ferrie leaves soon anyway! Will write again soon!

Pictures finally!

2007-01-26T11:19:00.000+13:00

This is a picture of Awatea Lodge where I have been staying the last week and a half- it's a beautiful home, and has an incredible view. There are flower gardens everywhere and just when you think that you have found your favourite flower, you notice the color of the one beside it and realize that they are all perfect!

This is a picture of Samm, on of the the baby alpacas- she was born when it was rainy and cool, so she got to wear a cute little rain jacket! When this picture was taken she was less than an hour old, and was quite unsure on her legs! She's super cute and it's a great time watching the three babies run around and play- they look very similar to fawns...

Lastly, this is a picture of me and JerryLee just before going for a walk (don't I look great in my rubber boots!?!)

babies!

2007-01-25T15:33:00.000+13:00

well, I seem to be terrible at updating this, but I usually don't have the desire to do anything on the computer! Things here are going great- 3 baby alpacas have been born, and the cutest one was born the other day, and her name is Samm- yep, after me! There have now been two girls and one boy, and they are priceless! I will put pics up this weekend (or I will make attempts to anyway!) Things here are going well- this weekend I am house sitting, and then I am heading south- I am going to cancel my next farm and go fruit picking. I figured that I should get lots of experiences, and they are desperate for fruit pickers so that's my plan! I am looking into it today, though should know by this weekend where I am going- hopefully! Otherwise all is well- I have now helped shear 5 alpacas, and got spat on as a result! It's really quite gross!
I am going to get going and go read my book in the sun- the joys!

hello hello!

2007-01-20T19:24:00.000+13:00

I know, I know- it's been a million years since my last blog (well, 4 days but still.....) but I have been busy and have had no interest in sitting in front of a computer!
I am currently at my first farm, which is this amazing place- perhaps the most beautiful place I have ever seen- which just happens to be an alpaca farm! The house is located with a stunning view, and there are gardens with flowers everywhere! When you walk out of the dinning area onto the deck they have grapes growing from the deck rafters, and I don't know why, but it seems like the most incredible thing to me. I will post pictures (honest, just not today, but soon!) The owners are super nice, and it's fun being around them- I even cook!
My jobs here includes feeding the chickens (YIKES- I am trying to face fears!) as well as feed the alpacas, which is the best! I have done gardening the last few days all morning, then I get afternoons off to do what I want. My first day was sunny, so I headed to the beach (a 30 minute walk to a white sand ocean beach- life is rough!) and hung out. I managed to get a slight sunburn, though not too bad, so hopefully it won't peel! Yesterday was overcast, so I napped and read my book. Today we headed to an agriculture fair, which was very- farmish! I didn't stay long, and headed home with Brent and Joans (the owners) daughter, Virginia, to meet her friend. While like we didn't head to a town close by to go shopping! I didn't buy anything, though it is so tempting!
The coolest thing happened tonight- an alpaca was born! She's so sweet and little and amazing! Alpacas have their babies on their own, and Brent just happened to notice that there was some strange commotion in the alpaca pen, and that's when he found her! She was less than an hour old, and so cute that I can't even describe it! Since Brent and Joan are going out of town next weekend, and the alpacas are starting to have babies (they are early) I am going to house sit here next weekend, and will not be leaving Wednesday as planned. Perhaps more babies will come along!
Anyway, it's dinner time so I should get going!
Hope all is well with everyone, and I will write again soon!

travelling south

2007-01-16T16:40:00.000+13:00

Well, I am now out of Auckland-
I was supposed to have been at my first farm, and would have been had I not gone out until 6am Saturday night and missed my 7:30 bus! Ooh well, I made it the next day, and looking back now, I don't think, even had I made it to my Sunday bus, that I would have had fun, as I was dreadfully sick!
So my first day out we headed to Rotorua. En route, we stopped at the glow worm caves, which reminded me of what it looks like to fly over a city, though in the caves you are looking up. After walking through limestone caves, we got into a boat (which is where you see the glow worms) and we were told not to stick out hands out of the boats. I, not liking to be told what to do, thought that it wasn't that outrageous to dip a finger in the water to test the temperature- well, that was until I heard what I thought was a fish jump- we were all corrected of that notion and learned it was an eel- you better believe that I did NOT dip my finger in the water after that!
Prior to the caves a group of us went for a hike through some pastures, even getting a chance to scare up some cows- thanks to Susan and Wendy, I was the smart one who knew that just because a cow has horns, it isn't necessarily a bull- yes I know, it's simple, but I like it!
I have learned from these last two days on the bus that as soon as I sit down, I get tired. We can be on the bus for minutes and I am already asleep. While this is good in the sense that it elevates all chances of motion sickness, I also end up missing a lots of the scenery.
what I have seen of it though has been wonderful, much of what I expected- soft green rolling hills with scatterings of trees everywhere- there are no real clear cut fields, and with such a variety of trees, its makes every field, every hill, unique.
Today we headed to Taupo, which is this cute little town located alongside of a lake that has formed from a volcano crater. It is a fresh water lake, and has a stunning color. We watched some crazy folk bungy jump, and with each person I realized more and more that I will never do it!
So now I am walking around the town, looking for a cheap place to use the Internet, though I should head back to my hostel (Burkes backpackers- nice huh Mom?!) and get dressed. I am meeting a couple of people from my bus for dinner- there's a special for dinner and 3 pints for $20- let's hope there isn't a repeat bus miss due to drunken stupor again tomorrow- wish me luck!

What a time!

2007-01-12T23:45:00.000+13:00

So Gen and I went to the Cirque du Soleil tonight- and it was incredible! It was the most most amazing piece of entertainment that I have ever watched, I loved it! The colors, the music (which was done by a live band and singers) the acrobatics and the amazing things that people can do to their bodies- I can never describe just how intense it was, so I strongly suggest to anyone who gets a chance to go- GO!
So tomorrow is my last day in Auckland before I head out for some WWOOFing; while I am looking forward to being out of the city, I am going to miss the great people that I have met- though I am sure that there will be more great people in my future- I hope!
Well, I am exhausted- and motion sick- I have never been on a bus that was driven as violently and scary as the buses in Auckland- you have been warned!
ciao

Gen is here!

2007-01-10T18:15:00.000+13:00

well, I figured that since I haven't posted anything in a while, I should do some updates! Gen arrived today, and was nice enough to wake me up at 8:30 this morning- isn't she nice??!!
The weather here has been rainy and sad the last few days, though today did have some sunny breaks, so that was nice. After taking a walk to the harbour, we stopped for a much needed beer and chat- seems like forever since we have got to do that! It was nice to talk to someone who you already know, though there is nothing wrong with talking to other backpackers either!
There are no big plans for the rest of the evening, or for the next few days, but that is okay with me!
Actually, there is one thing that we get to do that is going to be great- we are going to see a Cirque de Soleil- Varekai- performance on Friday night. We had agreed that we would be willing to spend the 110$ to get a decent seat if there were any availabilites...well, we found a ticket office by fluke, and after a short line, we got a great surprise- someone had cancelled their VIP tickets, and we were able to get great VIP tickets (which run for 240$) for 110$ each...good deal! I always knew that we were VIP!
Anyway, gonna jet, and I will write again soon!

walking through Auckland

2007-01-07T17:14:00.000+13:00

I went for a walk today through a residential part of Auckland, and though I am not usually one for spending much time looking at homes, today I was taken by how incredible the homes here are. Each house is unique, and even the ones that aren't in the best of shape look beautiful. Every yard is lush and green, most with either palm trees, huge cactus and bright colored flowers, or some with all mentioned. I took many pictures of homes that I found interesting, though I have yet to even try to figure out how to put picks on here, so that will have to wait for a rainy day!
I walked down the shore edge today as well, and it is amazing, and I am very jealous, that people get to see that every day! the smell is Auckland is clean, which isn't always to be expected in a city, though I couldn't be happier to be breathing clean air!
Well, the clouds are moving and the sun is now shining again, so I am going to get off the computer and head outside- don't worry everyone, I am wearing my sunscreen! UV ratings here are incredibly high, and you can burn in less than a half hour outside- YIKES!
Hope all is will with everyone- talk to you soon!

I made it!

2007-01-05T14:46:00.000+13:00

Well I have arrived in NZ!!
Everything went great!
The flight from Calgary to Vancouver went without any problems, then I got to wait in Vancouver for a few hours- security takes a while, you even have to get your baggage, walk it through a set of doors and then give it to them- why can't they just move them themselves?! The flight to LA was good- I sat beside an Australian girl who was very nice, and who enjoyed celebrity watching with me- that's right, I saw my first celebrity! John Locke (no idea what his real name is!) from LOST was on my flight! I was so excited when I got off the plane, that once in the terminal at LAX I went directly to a payphone and called to tell Gen!! Imagine, all that stood between me and him was a curtain- ooh yeah, and a whole class in the airplane- damn me for not flying first class!
I was completely blown away by the number of people in my area at LAX- that and the lack of stores to browse- I was glad that we were an hour late leaving Vancouver since that was one less hour that I had to spend in LAX! As for my 12.5-13 hour flight to NZ, it was great! Air New Zealand is a great air line, and I would fly them again over any other airline in a heartbeat! They have individual televisions, thick fleecy blankets, and I ended up having 2 free seats beside me! A lady did move into the isle seat (I was window) though she was super nice, and very chatty! While in flight you get to choose your movies from a large selection, and even though there were a few that I wanted to see, after all sleep etc. was done, I only ended up watching 1. The thing was, it was a great flight, and I am so glad that it went well, as I was dreading it very much!
We arrived in Auckland and it was dark- customs took no time to get through, and your bags arrive quickly, especially compared to most airports! After getting out of the airport I was amazed my the humidity in the air-I could almost feel the moisture returning to my skin, it was the only time feeling plump was a good thing! I ended up taking a shuttle to my hostel- it was a bit more money, but it saved doing transfers, and lets be honest, I was tired after the last day! I arrived at the Brown Kiwi to find it closed, it would seem that they don't open until 8am, and I arrived at 07:20- so I got to sit around for a while. Luckily for me there were people awake to let me in. I ended up having a 1.5 hour nap, though found that I couldn't sleep and just wanted to go look around. I got up, showered, got ready and went out for a walk. It was amazing how green and alive everything is! Every house seems to have a palm tree of some sort on it, and there are these beautiful pink and purple flowers everywhere. The smell here is so refreshing- it's almost like you can smell the green in the air, and even though I'm in a city (and let's be honest, a city is a city!) it still is fresh clean air! I just woke up from a nap- it would seem that my lack of sleep caught up with me! I have no plans for what to do now, which is great and a little scary, though I wouldn't change it for the world! I look forward to Gen arriving, it will be nice to talk to someone I know- not that it isn't fun to talk to strangers too! I am going to go now, and find something to do. When I start taking pictures, I will post them, and then everyone can see how wonderful it is here- well, at least as far as my lame photography skills can manage!

next location!

2006-12-31T06:58:00.000+13:00

Well, one more night in Eastend then I am off to Brooks AB for New Years, time with family, and the end of my vacation in Canada! New Years is going to be spent with my aunt and uncle, as well as a couple days after. January 02, we are off to Calgary for some shopping (my parents, not me!) and one last night with mom and dad.....January 03, all travel breaks loose and I am off on my flights that will seem to never end! OOh but it's worth it!
I got to talk to Gen last night, and there is only a short time before we are both in summer weather (did I mention that it is going to be 18-20 degrees when I get there and for the days after?!) and in the sun- first 2 days are dedicated to replenishing my vitamin D supply and parking myself on a beach somewhere- so rough! The following link is a weather site for NZ, if anyone is interested!

http://www.metservice.co.nz/default/index.php

Anyway, I should get going, help mom clean up, help dad with some drywall, and pack up my back pack! Hope all is well with anyone who reads this, and I will post again soon!

Happy New Year

if I don't get back on here before then!

Ranchin'

2006-12-28T09:47:00.000+13:00

Well I got to do something yesterday that I would never get to do in Whitehorse- I got to go and do chores at a ranch! Mom and dad (and myself) have some friends- Susan and Wendy, who have this incredible ranch just outside of Eastend, and yesterday I got to head out and do their daily chores with them. Who would have thought that chasing after a truck trying to keep the hay unwinding, and walking through cow crap could be so much fun! After feeding the herd out in the fields, we headed in to feed the bulls, the calves (which are so cute!) and the jerseys. It was also a good time for Penelope, who had never before seen a cow, and who was not well liked by Tombstone. Note for the future- donkeys are known to be great at keeping coyotes-and city dogs- away from herds! After a while, and once away from the field, Penelope quickly warmed to the idea of being on a farm, and really wanted to play with some cows who had zero interest in playing with her! She's just lucky that the cows aren't more aggressive towards dogs! All in all the experience was great, and I hope that maybe I can get out there again before I leave, or at least at some point when I am back in May! Thanks Susan and Wendy for letting me tag along and ask ridiculous questions, I had a great time!

'the Shack-teau'

with my parents

2006-12-23T09:23:00.000+13:00

Well, I am in SK and have been for a while, and it's so nice to be lazy!
Having a great time hanging out with my parents and their puppy Nacho. He is the sweetest little puppy who is so friendly it's crazy! Plus, he keeps Penelope well exercised and tired- it's a win-win!!
Well, I am off to go downtown(a very loose term!) Eastend with my mom, so hope everyone has a great Christmas!

last night in whitehorse....

2006-12-17T19:01:00.000+13:00

Well, tonight is my last night in town, and after last night, there is NO WAY that I am going out! I am still feeling ill, though it was worth every agonizing moment! Thanks to everyone who made it out...it's always fun to hang out!
Well, I need to get my ass in gear and finish packing.....fun times!!

one last thought

2006-12-14T22:40:00.001+13:00

ooh yeah...and have I mentioned that it's only 4 more days until I leave?!

ladies night

2006-12-14T22:28:00.000+13:00

Well we finally threw a surprise gathering that was a surprise....we managed to plan, organize and lie our way into getting Christine to Lillie Pie lotions for a ladies night; it would seem that I am a better liar (at least on the phone- in person, not so good!) than I thought, and after a fabricated fight with Stacey, it was all downhill from there!
The night was a success and a great time- it's always fun hanging out with the girls and talk about......err....girl things! While we may not get to do it again with Christine, we definitely do need to do it again some time....perhaps next time we can bring more food...just a thought!

One more week!

2006-12-11T12:36:00.000+13:00

Only 1 week until I fly out of Whitehorse- I am excited and very anxious all at the same time. I have this sense of panic that I will forget something crucial, and that I am going to be stuck in New Zealand scrambling...though I am sure it won't happen (ooh the power of positive thought!!)
So yeah, I fly to Calgary to see my mom and dad next Sunday, and then get to spend the following two weeks in Eastend- thought that I would hate it there, but in a strange way, it's almost my ideal place for a break! I can't wait to see my mom and dad, and it's going to be nice to not have to work, or really to have to do anything!
After Christmas we head to my aunt and uncle's house in Brooks AB where we are going to spend New Years. I also can't wait to see them...it's going to be perfect.
I fly to New Zealand on January 03, which is going to be a crazy long day:
Calgary to Vancouver; depart at 7:45, arrive at 8:13
Vancouver to LA; depart at 12:05, arrive at 2:55pm
LA to Auckland; depart at 7:45pm, arrive at 5:00am- I mean, it's only a 12.5 hour flight! I am really going to struggle keeping track of this time zone thing!
Anyway, the day includes 17 hrs of fly time, though with airport time, it works out to about a 27 hr day.....that's not so bad....YIKES!!!
Ooh well, at least I have 4 months to recoup before doing it again (and the way home is way shorter!)
In the end, it's all going to be worth it, so I am definitely not complaining!

ahh Meghan!

2006-12-08T15:02:00.000+13:00

You can't go wrong with guitar glasses and cake face...well, at least Meghan can't anyway!

I'm done!

2006-12-07T04:26:00.000+13:00

If you can picture this; doing a little dance, 'stirring the bucket' and shaking my hips like a fool...that's what I was doing last night at around 21:10 when I finished my exam! Glad to be done, and even more glad that the exam was well written and that I knew everything on it- always a good thing. Now it's 11 days until take off, and I can focus on getting myself ready and spending time with friends- like at Stacey's Dance Dance Revolution party tonight- Nerd Night!
Ahh, it's all easy from here....I hope......

Less than 2 weeks!

2006-12-05T13:06:00.000+13:00

Well, there is less than 2 weeks until I leave Whitehorse! All I have left is 6 days of work, and 1 exam (tomorrow night!) and then it's over for the next 5 months...5 MONTHS! That's crazy to think about! I just filled out all my leave forms and time sheets, which was time consuming, and kind of strange to see the next 5 months all planned out. Everything seems to be coming together pretty well, I am even already packed....don't make fun, I am just trying to not leave it until the last minute like usual! Well, I should be looking at my notes for my exam, not writing a post, so I am going to jet...

17 days and counting!

2006-12-01T21:19:00.000+13:00

Happy December 1st! I know it's clique, but seriously though, where did this year go?!
There are now only 17 days until I leave, and in one way I am glad that it is going to go by fast, and on the other, I am sad. I am looking forward to seeing my mom and dad et al....plus I get to see all the cool people I met in Eastend...and then for New Years we head to Brooks to see Gary and Belle, does it really get any better than that!
I suppose that I should get myself packing one of these days too, but it has been so nice these last few days to be lazy and do very little, so packing can wait for another week or so I think!!!
There's no much involved in the whole process though...there's figuring out how much is reasonable to bring, what I will need and on and on and on....too much to think about right now!
Perhaps another day.......

it's over...almost!

2006-11-29T17:59:00.000+13:00

Well, I just finished my last class, and handed in my two assignments...the end is near! Only 1 exam (thanks to Janice) and then school is done.....that combined with the fact that yesterday was my last day at Coles, and now I have so much free time! I am sure that my house is going to appreciate my freetime, as it has been neglected for quite some time...oops! I also think that Penelope is going to love me being home more, she's gone a little crazy with all the time alone that she has spent! Only 19 more days until my trip....and a lot of organizing and packing.....but this has all been worth it! It's hard to believe, with the weather we are having right now, that in a month I am going to be warm and experiencing summer....my life is good!

Re. My birthday

2006-11-29T17:56:00.000+13:00

Thanks to everyone who faced the weather and made it to my birthday party, I appreciate it more that you know! It was great to see everyone, and I couldn't have asked for a better 25th birthday..you guys are great!

It's my Birthday!

2006-11-26T11:35:00.000+13:00

Well, it has came and gone, and I am now 25...though tonight is the night to really celebrate!
Having the party at Shenanigan's, even got to sell tickets, always good to know people! After selling tickets for the last week+ we managed to get a great group of people together, so tonight should be fun! I will try to post pics from the night in the coming days, though it's a crazy busy time with school and all, so it might take me a few days! Ciao for now!

closer and closer

2006-11-19T11:58:00.000+13:00

I seems to go through waves of blogging; I would love to write more often, but I am so busy right now, I never have the time! I only have 3 more shifts at Coles, and three sets at the annex, then I am off to Sask. to see mom and dad (and Loci & Nacho!). After a couple weeks there, I am off to NZ...while I am excited, I just keep thinking about the 2 major papers due, and two exams, which puts a bit of stress behind my excitment!
On a fun note though, my birthday is in less than a week, and a week from today is my party...thanks to Keith for being so accomodating to my request! Looking forward to seeing everyone there, it should be a good time!
well, after talking about how much I have to do, I should get myself back to my school work!

Booked my first hostel!

2006-11-09T12:01:00.000+13:00

For my first time ever I have booked a hostel- did some research since I have the time to do it, and want/hope that my first one to be a postive experience that I am remember as I am stuck in the inevitable dumps that I am going to encounter!

Happy Birthday Stacey!

2006-11-09T11:55:00.000+13:00

Just want to say a quick happy birthday to Stacey;
we tired to keep it a surprise, which never works,
but at least it was fun!  Hope you have
a great 25th year, and remember....YOU ROCK!!!

Celebrating Stacey's Birthday

2006-11-09T11:54:00.000+13:00

Last night was yet another example of just how crazy we all are! It was great to see everyone all dressed up and having a good time, though I must say that it's going to be hard to pick a best dressed- there's Denis who pulled off the Einstein look no problem, though I think that he liked pulling the creepy old man card more than the smart card! Of course we can't forget how bright Andrew was too- only his was the reflection off the top of his head- a little self tanner and some bronzer would have been nice- kudos for taking the razor to your head; from Dave to Lester, quite a change, though maybe not for the better! And who can forget Stacey- not because it was her birthday celebration, but because she was the only person who walked around with her boobs being touched all night...creepy person in the rubber gloves! Thankfully Tara thought to tape Stacey's bra as to not grant easy access to any person walking by- perhaps this is a result of Tara's incident that involved the removal of her bra in a public area- all in the name of education right Tara?! Anyway, great night everyone, and it was nice getting to see you all!