I woke up late and didn't have my poop in a group. I had to shove everything I needed into a backpack for the day/night in a half an hour. I was definitely scrambling around to get stuff together when I should have been taking it easy and getting ready with plenty of time to "scramble" some eggs! Oh well. We made it on the 9:15am ferry and realized there was going to be another one later...we didn't think there was so that's why we got up so early. It was going to be a LONG day. We got to the beach and settled down. I contemplated whether or not I wanted to head back at 4:30pm on the last ferry because all I had were nuts and pretzels and I was getting nervous about classes starting Monday. I ended up staying which was a good choice.
We ended up hiking to the other side of the island. We stopped and looked at old World War I bunkers which was awesome. I love history. So crazy. "Scottie" also known as Blaire (he's from Scotland) had a sakata on his shoulder. I was like why does that bug sound like it's sooo close. Sure enough it was because it was just chillin there. I thought those things were invisible cause you always hear them, but you never see them!
You never know what you're going to smell when you're traveling. Sometimes I smell flowers or mint. That is how I want to remember New Zealand. I have to admit though...sometimes it doesn't smell pretty. Even New Zealand has cows. Yeah...I'm talkin about cow dung. Mmm... :) It's pretty sweet though that the only wild animals they have are cows, sheep, and horses. The island that we stayed at was preditor free. Except cats or something? I don't know. It was creepy cause when we got there this dude was like...you guys probably know the drill, but get inside this shed and close it and follow the directions. Get inside a shed? Hmm...kinda "dodgy" if you ask me. We had just talked about how someone had gone to another country and they were locked in a room and the guy wouldn't let them out even though they were dying of heat. Literally. He died. Sad story. We were kind of weirded out by this, but it was just to make sure we didn't have any "stowaways." Such as mice, or other animals in our bags. I'm pretty sure that was more so for the people that had been traveling for awhile already, but we went in the shed and just stood there until we thought it had been long enough. I was pretty sure I didn't pack a rat in my bag, but I dunno...I WAS in a rush that morning ;)
When we went back to the campsite Robbie had already tested out his stove he made. He made it out of a beer can, had fuel, and a copper coin in it. It was amazing. We weren't allowed to have open fire or whatever so he created his own concauction. He made lamb and rice, and Mike made some ramen noodles. I was so jealous. Here I was sitting with my nuts and pretzels and he whips out a gourmet meal. Typical. I was so excstatic though that Rebecca gave me one of her apples. I didn't have one that day and if you know me....you know I don't go a DAY without them. It made my night.
Our tent consisteted of a tarp on the ground and a tarp hanging between two trees. It worked for us I guess! We were really roughin it ;) All I had for covers was a sheet, fleece blanket, pillow and a towel. I was a little chillin that night. Apparently Mallory was perfect and she just had a fleece. Between Robbie having a sleeping bag and me warming her with my bum I guess she was warm as can be. Turd muffin. Oh well.
That night was so fun. Just gazing at the stars, jokin, and getting tired so everything was funny and worth laughing at. Love those times.
The morning. So we wake up at the crack of dawn. El baile de perrito comes out again. (joke from last night) and a ranger comes by and says there is a tsunami warning and to get to higher ground. Apparently an earthquake hit in Chile. Where I come from we just worry about floods, and snow storms. This was new to me. We were kinda freaked, but also excited at the same time. The ferry wasn't running though so we were kind of frustrated. After all, we DO have school on Monday! Luckily we had a ranger take us to Rangitoto and we got on the 12:45pm ferry. We couldn't have been more thrilled! We got back to Auckland and ate mexican food and then headed home and passed out. I was one tired cookie!
What a weekend!
I ended up getting off the trail a little bit and walking on all the big rocks by the shore in my flip flops. Smart. Wear flip flops when you go hiking, really? Yeah...I woke up late okay! Couldn't bring everything I needed. Along the way I saw snails, sardines, a starfish, and crabs. Nature is so funny.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
The Uni
School.
So I forgot that I'm here for school. I have honestly had since December until well Monday is our first official day of class...so it's been my summer technically. At the "Uni" (what thie Kiwi's call the University) I am here for their first semester. It's sort of opposite of ours. I am officially enrolled in all my "papers" (classes). Such a relief! I am, however, still wishing I could just take dance courses. I went to the dance studies orientation today and met some of the students and faculty. I'm in love. It's exactly what I want. The professors are nice and seem to love their job. They make it interesting and it looks like it will be challenging. I hope I can open my mind and let myself be as creative as I hope to be! I like being an international student. Everybody here seems to love the way we talk. I don't know why, because I feel the same about them. Theirs is just...cooler! It will be funny to come home and think that I will still be the center of attention cause I won't be, or will I? That's kind of who I am so maybe. Haha...I am the princess! Just kidding, but it's really cool to know that they are just as intrigued by American culture as I am about theirs.
I'm a bit nervous about my business courses. I'm taking Macroeconomics and Marketing Managment. They have finals at the end of the semester and have two WHOLE weeks off before for preparation: a tad intimidating don't you think? I'm not very good at econ so I might be bustin my butt in that class, but many people like macro better than micro so I hope I'm okay!
Dance.
That's what I'm most excited for. I'm taking Dance Education....perfect if I want to teach dance, Dance and Technology, and maybe a Hip Hop "paper." I have to decide which ones I will keep yet, but Professor Ralph Buck saaaaaaaid that I could come to whatever class and get it all situated. Being here I just want to go ahead and major in dance. I could be done in no time at all. There are so many things you can actually do with it that people don't even think about. I won't go off about that, but it's a long list.
Orientation Week.
This week has flown by! Monday was the first day of orientation, but we felt like it was more for first year students so we just went to the welcome and got things taken care of that we needed. We ended up hiking from the East coast to the West coast. This was about a ten mile walk mind you. Worth it though. We got to see the Tasman Sea! Yeee dawg. We got to see Mt. Eden again which is the Volcano we saw on the first day. Tried to go in it, but someone ruined our bad-a behavior and was like "not supposed to go down there retards!" Psh...duh..we knew that dude! We were being total rule breakers. Whatever.
Anyways...we went to a place called Margharittas and got our dance on one night, went to another beach...I believe it was called Waheiki. The ferry was a little spendy...30 dollars, but the views were incredible. We laid on the beach for a few hours. I actually fell asleep it was so peaceful. I never fall asleep on the beach! Always too hot, but it was just right. This island had wineries all over. We hope to do a wine tasting at some point. Had a meat pie. Reminded me of Sweeny Todd so I was hesitant about trying it, but dang it was goooood! Try one if you haven't.
I don't know if I've mentioned their milkshakes, but they are the BOMB! I had one today. We went down to the harbor the other night and I got one too. This little Italian gelato place is our go-to spot. We love it!
Hung out with a Kiwi.
Yesterday while everyone and by everyone I mean my gang, crew, wolfpack, peeps, or friends, went surfing and got burnt, hit their heads on their boards and their muscles were giving out, I spent a relaxing day just shopping Queen Street. My friend Grant from Minnesota did AustraLearn last semester and studied at Waikaito and his friend Olivia added me to Facebook. She said she was from Auckland and would be willing to show me around when she was in town. I met her yesterday and she is such a sweetheart! Love her accent. We just talked about some of the differences, sterotypes of americans and kiwis. We didn't have time to go to the Auckland museum, but she said she comes home every couple of weekends and whenever I head to Waikaito to give her a ring! We both share a love for clothes so it was fun to see where she liked to shop here.
Boyz Noize
Mallory, Robbie, Rebecca, and I got tickets to Boyz Noize. No idea who this band is, but I decided to be a sheep and follow the others. It sounded really fun...kind of technoey (that's not a word) style of music. I don't know...I'm just super pumped for that and going to Backstreet Boys with Connor! That's like a dream come true.
Camping
Just booked our campsite for the weekend. We are going to take a ferry to another island. This place is supposed to be good to fish, hike, swim, and camp. This is our last hoorah before school starts. We are going to get children's sleeping bags so we can do this camping thing tomorrow night. I'm sooo excited! Haven't been camping in awhile. Well...we can't cause you all know it snows in Minnesota! I won't be by a computer for awhile, but I will let you know how the weekend goes! Ps. Anyone in need of children's sleeping bags?
Ouch. My fingers hurt.
♥ Haylee
So I forgot that I'm here for school. I have honestly had since December until well Monday is our first official day of class...so it's been my summer technically. At the "Uni" (what thie Kiwi's call the University) I am here for their first semester. It's sort of opposite of ours. I am officially enrolled in all my "papers" (classes). Such a relief! I am, however, still wishing I could just take dance courses. I went to the dance studies orientation today and met some of the students and faculty. I'm in love. It's exactly what I want. The professors are nice and seem to love their job. They make it interesting and it looks like it will be challenging. I hope I can open my mind and let myself be as creative as I hope to be! I like being an international student. Everybody here seems to love the way we talk. I don't know why, because I feel the same about them. Theirs is just...cooler! It will be funny to come home and think that I will still be the center of attention cause I won't be, or will I? That's kind of who I am so maybe. Haha...I am the princess! Just kidding, but it's really cool to know that they are just as intrigued by American culture as I am about theirs.
I'm a bit nervous about my business courses. I'm taking Macroeconomics and Marketing Managment. They have finals at the end of the semester and have two WHOLE weeks off before for preparation: a tad intimidating don't you think? I'm not very good at econ so I might be bustin my butt in that class, but many people like macro better than micro so I hope I'm okay!
Dance.
That's what I'm most excited for. I'm taking Dance Education....perfect if I want to teach dance, Dance and Technology, and maybe a Hip Hop "paper." I have to decide which ones I will keep yet, but Professor Ralph Buck saaaaaaaid that I could come to whatever class and get it all situated. Being here I just want to go ahead and major in dance. I could be done in no time at all. There are so many things you can actually do with it that people don't even think about. I won't go off about that, but it's a long list.
Orientation Week.
This week has flown by! Monday was the first day of orientation, but we felt like it was more for first year students so we just went to the welcome and got things taken care of that we needed. We ended up hiking from the East coast to the West coast. This was about a ten mile walk mind you. Worth it though. We got to see the Tasman Sea! Yeee dawg. We got to see Mt. Eden again which is the Volcano we saw on the first day. Tried to go in it, but someone ruined our bad-a behavior and was like "not supposed to go down there retards!" Psh...duh..we knew that dude! We were being total rule breakers. Whatever.
Anyways...we went to a place called Margharittas and got our dance on one night, went to another beach...I believe it was called Waheiki. The ferry was a little spendy...30 dollars, but the views were incredible. We laid on the beach for a few hours. I actually fell asleep it was so peaceful. I never fall asleep on the beach! Always too hot, but it was just right. This island had wineries all over. We hope to do a wine tasting at some point. Had a meat pie. Reminded me of Sweeny Todd so I was hesitant about trying it, but dang it was goooood! Try one if you haven't.
I don't know if I've mentioned their milkshakes, but they are the BOMB! I had one today. We went down to the harbor the other night and I got one too. This little Italian gelato place is our go-to spot. We love it!
Hung out with a Kiwi.
Yesterday while everyone and by everyone I mean my gang, crew, wolfpack, peeps, or friends, went surfing and got burnt, hit their heads on their boards and their muscles were giving out, I spent a relaxing day just shopping Queen Street. My friend Grant from Minnesota did AustraLearn last semester and studied at Waikaito and his friend Olivia added me to Facebook. She said she was from Auckland and would be willing to show me around when she was in town. I met her yesterday and she is such a sweetheart! Love her accent. We just talked about some of the differences, sterotypes of americans and kiwis. We didn't have time to go to the Auckland museum, but she said she comes home every couple of weekends and whenever I head to Waikaito to give her a ring! We both share a love for clothes so it was fun to see where she liked to shop here.
Boyz Noize
Mallory, Robbie, Rebecca, and I got tickets to Boyz Noize. No idea who this band is, but I decided to be a sheep and follow the others. It sounded really fun...kind of technoey (that's not a word) style of music. I don't know...I'm just super pumped for that and going to Backstreet Boys with Connor! That's like a dream come true.
Camping
Just booked our campsite for the weekend. We are going to take a ferry to another island. This place is supposed to be good to fish, hike, swim, and camp. This is our last hoorah before school starts. We are going to get children's sleeping bags so we can do this camping thing tomorrow night. I'm sooo excited! Haven't been camping in awhile. Well...we can't cause you all know it snows in Minnesota! I won't be by a computer for awhile, but I will let you know how the weekend goes! Ps. Anyone in need of children's sleeping bags?
Ouch. My fingers hurt.
♥ Haylee
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Playing catch up.
So I kind of touched base on arriving in Auckland, and settling in. I haven't, however gotten to the good stuff. I'm playing catch up before I forget all of it. I am at the computer lab with Robbie and Mallory and we were trying to think of what we even did on Thursday night when we arrived. Robbie replies back with; "What day is it?" That just shows how much everything is running together now. Thursday. Okay. We figured it out. When we got to our apartments, brought our junk upstairs, etc, we went to the warehouse. It's like worse than the old Walmarts, but it's cheap and we can get the things that we needed.
NEXT!
Friday. Friday we got up and went to get our classes figured out. They are pretty laid back here and said if I want to just walk into classes to figure out which ones I want to take to feel free to do so. It's a good thing too because one of my classes overlaps with another so I will have to find a substitute. After we did all that we went to "Slurp." Slurp is a cafe on campus, very good btw. I have to fix my computer still, but we went to a store and I spent about 75 bucks for them to instal a pointless program. Yeah...don't wanna talk about it.
Mallory and I needed grocery store so we went to O'Rorke Hall (right next to our apartments) and asked people at the front desk. They were very helpful, printed out maps, and even highlighted them. Matt, one of the RA's, said that he would be willing to take us to the grocery store even! So, we took him up on the offer. He drove us to "Countdown." Good thing too, because that would have been a mighty walk! He said he would pick us up in a half an hour. It was sooo nice! Mallory and I decided that we needed some wine with our meals for supper, because we were going to make dinner together. When Matt picked us up he took us out to Mission Bay and saw an awesome view of the ocean. He mentioned that he and some others were going to go to Phia on Saturday (the black sand beaches on the west coast) and invited us to join! We were ecstatic! Espessially since he was a kiwi and we were actually going to hang out with locals.
That night we made dinner: carrots, celery, and dip, apples slice (of course) and spaghetti with wine to drink! It was awesome. I "dined" with Robbie, Kathlene, Mike, Mallory, and Connor. We had a blast. That night we decided to go out and about. We went to the club called Crow. Let's just say Mallory and I danced our booties off! My body hurt the next day. Kiwi people usually don't go out till midnight and well....we were about done at midnight so things were just getting lively when we left, but it was still great. I think from all the travel and being so busy made us tired.
Phia-the black sand beach.
Can I get a b-e-a-utiful? Oh my word. I felt like I was on a different planet. Like serioulsy.
When Matt picked us up it was kinda funny cause my roommate, Zac, was there too! Small world. It took about 40 minutes to get there, but Matt got to take the "Uni" (university) car. Their boss is very chill and said to take people out and show them around. How fun that WE got to be those people huh?! Anyways...we just hung out at the beach for a couple of hours. Shaina and I went for a yawg, saw some jelly fish eggs or something, and caught some rays. I was like one of the only ones who didn't burn that day. Go me! Didn't your mother tell you guys to apply sunscreen? ;)
Nightlife
Saturday night was a blast. We went out on the town again. The group consisted of Mallory, Rebecca, Robbie, and me by the end of the night. We went to "Holy Beans" and danced some more. I got hit on a few times. One dude was just NOT getting the picture. He was like "do you want to dance?" and I was like no thanks...taking a break...maybe later. "Why not now?" I was like I'm tired and then I don't know if he didn't here me or what but then asked if I wanted to dance a couple more times. No buddy! No...I don't. I didn't say that, but I was just more persistent about saying no. Really? Come on peeps! Then he was like "can I buy you a drink?" And I asked "right now?" He said no...like tomorrow sometime. I'm busy...sorry! Haha wow. He was annoying. Then Robbie interupted and was like hey man do you know where we are? The guy seemed kinda pissed. (the kiwi version of pissed means wasted, but he was both that and the american version!) He didn't seem to understand what Robbie was asking so he finally stopped bugging us.
Went back to Crow to finish our night up, but before that we stopped at Nachos. Robbie stole a poncho, stuffed it in his pants. It was hilarious. He was like I want one of those...I'm going to the bathroom quick. Didn't think he was actually going to take it, but he needed a blanket! Haha
Stealing is bad. If you're reading this...don't do it!
(but not gonna lie it was pretty funny)
SUNDAY
We took a ferry to Rangitoto Volcano, took an hour to climb up and we were hot, sweaty, tired, hungry, and dying of thirst by the time we got to the top, but it was entirely worth it. The view was amazing. It is a small Island so you can see EVERYTHING around you, the city, other islands, the blue ocean. It was amazing. We then explored some caves that developed from the volcano. Cool stuff.
I'm tired of writing though, but I think I pretty much caught up. Today was orientation. That's all that's happend so far.
Over and out.
NEXT!
Friday. Friday we got up and went to get our classes figured out. They are pretty laid back here and said if I want to just walk into classes to figure out which ones I want to take to feel free to do so. It's a good thing too because one of my classes overlaps with another so I will have to find a substitute. After we did all that we went to "Slurp." Slurp is a cafe on campus, very good btw. I have to fix my computer still, but we went to a store and I spent about 75 bucks for them to instal a pointless program. Yeah...don't wanna talk about it.
Mallory and I needed grocery store so we went to O'Rorke Hall (right next to our apartments) and asked people at the front desk. They were very helpful, printed out maps, and even highlighted them. Matt, one of the RA's, said that he would be willing to take us to the grocery store even! So, we took him up on the offer. He drove us to "Countdown." Good thing too, because that would have been a mighty walk! He said he would pick us up in a half an hour. It was sooo nice! Mallory and I decided that we needed some wine with our meals for supper, because we were going to make dinner together. When Matt picked us up he took us out to Mission Bay and saw an awesome view of the ocean. He mentioned that he and some others were going to go to Phia on Saturday (the black sand beaches on the west coast) and invited us to join! We were ecstatic! Espessially since he was a kiwi and we were actually going to hang out with locals.
That night we made dinner: carrots, celery, and dip, apples slice (of course) and spaghetti with wine to drink! It was awesome. I "dined" with Robbie, Kathlene, Mike, Mallory, and Connor. We had a blast. That night we decided to go out and about. We went to the club called Crow. Let's just say Mallory and I danced our booties off! My body hurt the next day. Kiwi people usually don't go out till midnight and well....we were about done at midnight so things were just getting lively when we left, but it was still great. I think from all the travel and being so busy made us tired.
Phia-the black sand beach.
Can I get a b-e-a-utiful? Oh my word. I felt like I was on a different planet. Like serioulsy.
When Matt picked us up it was kinda funny cause my roommate, Zac, was there too! Small world. It took about 40 minutes to get there, but Matt got to take the "Uni" (university) car. Their boss is very chill and said to take people out and show them around. How fun that WE got to be those people huh?! Anyways...we just hung out at the beach for a couple of hours. Shaina and I went for a yawg, saw some jelly fish eggs or something, and caught some rays. I was like one of the only ones who didn't burn that day. Go me! Didn't your mother tell you guys to apply sunscreen? ;)
Nightlife
Saturday night was a blast. We went out on the town again. The group consisted of Mallory, Rebecca, Robbie, and me by the end of the night. We went to "Holy Beans" and danced some more. I got hit on a few times. One dude was just NOT getting the picture. He was like "do you want to dance?" and I was like no thanks...taking a break...maybe later. "Why not now?" I was like I'm tired and then I don't know if he didn't here me or what but then asked if I wanted to dance a couple more times. No buddy! No...I don't. I didn't say that, but I was just more persistent about saying no. Really? Come on peeps! Then he was like "can I buy you a drink?" And I asked "right now?" He said no...like tomorrow sometime. I'm busy...sorry! Haha wow. He was annoying. Then Robbie interupted and was like hey man do you know where we are? The guy seemed kinda pissed. (the kiwi version of pissed means wasted, but he was both that and the american version!) He didn't seem to understand what Robbie was asking so he finally stopped bugging us.
Went back to Crow to finish our night up, but before that we stopped at Nachos. Robbie stole a poncho, stuffed it in his pants. It was hilarious. He was like I want one of those...I'm going to the bathroom quick. Didn't think he was actually going to take it, but he needed a blanket! Haha
Stealing is bad. If you're reading this...don't do it!
(but not gonna lie it was pretty funny)
SUNDAY
We took a ferry to Rangitoto Volcano, took an hour to climb up and we were hot, sweaty, tired, hungry, and dying of thirst by the time we got to the top, but it was entirely worth it. The view was amazing. It is a small Island so you can see EVERYTHING around you, the city, other islands, the blue ocean. It was amazing. We then explored some caves that developed from the volcano. Cool stuff.
I'm tired of writing though, but I think I pretty much caught up. Today was orientation. That's all that's happend so far.
Over and out.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Little people.
February 16th, 2010
Today was our community day. The primary school was awesome. We basically got to hang out with kids ages five to ten until school was out. They were great. It was so funny that they all wanted our autographs too. It's not like we're famous, but getting to meet people from somewhere else I guess is pretty sweet. They sang a song in I believe it was Maori, but in return we taught them an american song: Take me out to the Ball Game. Yeah. You know that one. Well little did we know...root root root for the home team was well probably not something we should teach the kids. Root...yeah that means sex apparently. Sex sex sex for the home team! Haha the kids gave us such a strange look. Didn't strike us until it was too late. I got it on tape though. It was pretty fun anyways.
Today was our community day. The primary school was awesome. We basically got to hang out with kids ages five to ten until school was out. They were great. It was so funny that they all wanted our autographs too. It's not like we're famous, but getting to meet people from somewhere else I guess is pretty sweet. They sang a song in I believe it was Maori, but in return we taught them an american song: Take me out to the Ball Game. Yeah. You know that one. Well little did we know...root root root for the home team was well probably not something we should teach the kids. Root...yeah that means sex apparently. Sex sex sex for the home team! Haha the kids gave us such a strange look. Didn't strike us until it was too late. I got it on tape though. It was pretty fun anyways.
Awhile back...
So I haven't had the chance to really write on a computer so I'm playing catch up.
February 13, 2010
In the book that I got from Lauren it says; "I remember experiencing my first fog with you...our adventure to Duluth..But it never stopped us from geting there...I actually found it beautiful." Under that I wrote about how going to Duluth with Lauren was amazing. Yes. I know. I'm talking about Duluth and I'm in New Zealand! So what, who cares? Anyways...it was so fun to see Lauren experience Duluth for the first time. I knew how much she loved Portland and it was a tiny taste of Minnesota's very own Portland, Oregon. Thinking about this trip was a good reminder to think about my loved ones back home and all the fun times we share.
Today was the longest day of my life. We got to Auckland at 5:25am this morning and were going till about 10:30pm. I was lucky that I could sleep as much as I did on the plane though. When I finally realized I was in New Zealand I was overcome with excitment.
When we got to the airport we were greeted by the AustraLearn gang. We were told to call home so I did. Then I called my mom's cell. Then I called my Dad's cell. THEN i called my Dad's work phone. Ron picks up. Gary is on the line. "Okay, well can you just let him know that his daughter made it to New Zealand safely?" So, I can't get a hold of my parents and I only know a few numbers by heart. I wanted to talk to someone from back home...I mean for me this whole thing has kind of been a big deal. So, I call Andrew. It was nice to hear someone's voice that was familiar to me. I didn't have a whole lot of time to chat, but it was good. In fact, here, I don't have hardly any time to talk which is why I got skype. Hopefully that will be helpful. It's free AND I can see people's faces :)
I had a moment tonight just visiting with some other AustraLearn students when I missed home. I hope that doesn't happen so often that i don't experience what I should. This is a growing opportunity and I know I will have obstacles to overcome like your note says below.
Things may be har to get through...obstacles may appear. But keep your head up. Strive for the best.
ps I love you
February 14th, 2010
Happy Valentines Day! Heading to Rotorua. Had breakfast at the hostel. I'm listening to Josh Groban and thinking about family and friends.
"Where has that old friend gone, lost in a February song, tell him it won't be long before he opens his eyes. Where is that simple day before colors broke in two shades, how did I ever fit into this life. I never want to let you down. Forgive me if I slip away. All that I've known is lost and found. I promise you I will come back to you one day."
February 15, 2010
Today was our "Day of Adventure." I went luging and on a giant swing. I LOVE swings and this swing was like the biggest one in the world. It was totally awesome! The only downfall was the rain. It poured there for awhile. "It was just an awful day...it was raining in Madrid and my shoes got drenched and....this one time when I was in Hawaii it rained...yeah it wasn't fun." (I hope a few of you get that ;) ahem...Andrew.
Mallory and I went for a jog later. It was nice to be able to be active. We explored downtown some more. Mallory, Connor, and I were trying to figure out nicknames for each other. I, of course, am Princess :) I'm tired and want to go to bed though. I feel like I am doing good with listenting to my body though. I don't give in and stay up if i really need the rest. Tomorrow is our community day. We'regoing to a primary school. It should be cool to see since we have been so lucky to hang out and have fun these past few days. It should be an eye opener since the kids come from a lower class. I hope that what we do tomorrow puts a smile on their faces. I have no doubt it will be a great experience.
February 13, 2010
In the book that I got from Lauren it says; "I remember experiencing my first fog with you...our adventure to Duluth..But it never stopped us from geting there...I actually found it beautiful." Under that I wrote about how going to Duluth with Lauren was amazing. Yes. I know. I'm talking about Duluth and I'm in New Zealand! So what, who cares? Anyways...it was so fun to see Lauren experience Duluth for the first time. I knew how much she loved Portland and it was a tiny taste of Minnesota's very own Portland, Oregon. Thinking about this trip was a good reminder to think about my loved ones back home and all the fun times we share.
Today was the longest day of my life. We got to Auckland at 5:25am this morning and were going till about 10:30pm. I was lucky that I could sleep as much as I did on the plane though. When I finally realized I was in New Zealand I was overcome with excitment.
When we got to the airport we were greeted by the AustraLearn gang. We were told to call home so I did. Then I called my mom's cell. Then I called my Dad's cell. THEN i called my Dad's work phone. Ron picks up. Gary is on the line. "Okay, well can you just let him know that his daughter made it to New Zealand safely?" So, I can't get a hold of my parents and I only know a few numbers by heart. I wanted to talk to someone from back home...I mean for me this whole thing has kind of been a big deal. So, I call Andrew. It was nice to hear someone's voice that was familiar to me. I didn't have a whole lot of time to chat, but it was good. In fact, here, I don't have hardly any time to talk which is why I got skype. Hopefully that will be helpful. It's free AND I can see people's faces :)
I had a moment tonight just visiting with some other AustraLearn students when I missed home. I hope that doesn't happen so often that i don't experience what I should. This is a growing opportunity and I know I will have obstacles to overcome like your note says below.
Things may be har to get through...obstacles may appear. But keep your head up. Strive for the best.
ps I love you
February 14th, 2010
Happy Valentines Day! Heading to Rotorua. Had breakfast at the hostel. I'm listening to Josh Groban and thinking about family and friends.
"Where has that old friend gone, lost in a February song, tell him it won't be long before he opens his eyes. Where is that simple day before colors broke in two shades, how did I ever fit into this life. I never want to let you down. Forgive me if I slip away. All that I've known is lost and found. I promise you I will come back to you one day."
February 15, 2010
Today was our "Day of Adventure." I went luging and on a giant swing. I LOVE swings and this swing was like the biggest one in the world. It was totally awesome! The only downfall was the rain. It poured there for awhile. "It was just an awful day...it was raining in Madrid and my shoes got drenched and....this one time when I was in Hawaii it rained...yeah it wasn't fun." (I hope a few of you get that ;) ahem...Andrew.
Mallory and I went for a jog later. It was nice to be able to be active. We explored downtown some more. Mallory, Connor, and I were trying to figure out nicknames for each other. I, of course, am Princess :) I'm tired and want to go to bed though. I feel like I am doing good with listenting to my body though. I don't give in and stay up if i really need the rest. Tomorrow is our community day. We'regoing to a primary school. It should be cool to see since we have been so lucky to hang out and have fun these past few days. It should be an eye opener since the kids come from a lower class. I hope that what we do tomorrow puts a smile on their faces. I have no doubt it will be a great experience.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Second day in Auckland. I love it here so far. I got all settled in last night. A bunch of people went out to a scary movie, but I'm just not into that. I created collage of newspaper and magazines on my bulletin board and hung up my jewelery to add some flava. I also hung up an outfit on my wall to make everything more homey along with a map of New Zealand. It's getting there. I also went grocery shopping. Made some spaghetti for myself. I can't wait to get the pictures I have so far on here! I don't have internet on my computer yet which is why I'm using the unions, but soon ;) I LOVE my flat. It's absolutely ADORABLE. It's got a modern feel to it. Windows surround the living room and it overlooks the city. Today I got registered for three out of my four classes. It's a process since two of them overlap. It should be all straightend out though. I have plenty of time. Classes don't start till March first and then we have two weeks after that even. Today we are going to the beach! I'm super excited :) Might even go for a yawg (jog) today!!! 
Sunday, February 14, 2010
NZ
I'm here! I cannot believe it. I only have 8 minutes left on my internet usage so this entry is just going to be short. I absolutely love it so far. My days are busy and filled with fun things to do. Yesterday we learned the Haka which is a traditional dance by the Maoris. We painted our faces and dressed in traditional garments. They even taped it! I wouldn't be suprised if that somehow wound up on youtube or something. I have met a ton of amazing people. The people in the Australearn program are great. I've already made some friends I think that will be around for good. It's nice that I already feel that and it's only the third day. Yesterday was Valentine's Day for us. It was weird knowing that it wasn't though for people back home...it's like I'm living in the future! Well...sorta. All I can say is that so far...so good!
Haylee
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
You start to grow up
This weekend at home has been absolutely amazing. I came home on Saturday to two joyful kids running into my arms saying HAYLEE! I couldn't have been happier to see those smiling faces. Jordan, my Mom, and I got to take Ava and Jayden out sledding after a long struggle in finding all their snow gear and Jayden crying because he wanted to skate instead. We went to Ridgewater to try out the slopes. Once we got there I knew that all the hustle and bustle of getting them there was worth it. Ava and Jayden were so excited. Watching them was bittersweet. I realized that this was the last weekend I would see them for a little while. It was so fun to watch them go down all by themselves. They would call up from the bottom of the hill and say HELP! They didn't want to carry up the sleds cause it was so hard for them, especially Jaydo. I loved that Jordan came out with us too. It reminded me of when we were little and right now typing I just remembered a story about being out in the cold. Jordan, Danny, and David (our neighbors) and I would always go over to Roosevelt school and basically walk over the fence because the snow drifts would be so high. We would trudge around and play pretend. I remember falling into a hole by a window at the school and my brother heard me screaming and went over to me and helped me out. Now...after so many years I'm sure the extent of how stuck I was is exaggerated, but I always thought he saved my life that day. It's amazing how scared you get when you're little about getting lost, or being stuck when someone is right beside you or right around the corner. This brings me to my little ones. Ava, Jayden, Paige, and Kail. They are in those precious moments of growing up. I love being there for them as much as possible, but I'm realizing that I can't always be there. Right now I have to be away from the people I love, but that doesn't mean I love them any less. As a matter of fact I think that because of this experience I will realize how important they are in my life. I did my best to explain to Ava (6) and Jayden (4) that I was not going to be around for a little while. I don't think Jayden understood, but Ava seemed to be listening to me. I told them that I was going to miss them very much and for them to send pictures. Ava has already lost her two front teeth and I can hardly believe it. I know that all my nieces and nephews are going to grow up way too fast and in all reality I'm only going to be gone a short time, but for childhood it's like 2 doggy years. I was looking through my facebook at the pictures Lauren took of me, Jayden, and Ava in Duluth and came across lyrics to a special song. It's called "In my Arms" by Plum
Your baby blues
So full of wonder
Your curly cues
Your contageous smile
And as I watch
You start to grow up
All I can do is hold you tight
Knowing clouds will rage
And storms will race in
But you will be safe in my arms
Rains will pour down
Waves will crash all around
But you will be safe in my arms
Here's the youtube link if you're bored and want to listen...it has the characters from Twilight for whatever reason, but it works cause I like Twilight anyways ;)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6rSPDyzaR8
Your baby blues
So full of wonder
Your curly cues
Your contageous smile
And as I watch
You start to grow up
All I can do is hold you tight
Knowing clouds will rage
And storms will race in
But you will be safe in my arms
Rains will pour down
Waves will crash all around
But you will be safe in my arms
Here's the youtube link if you're bored and want to listen...it has the characters from Twilight for whatever reason, but it works cause I like Twilight anyways ;)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6rSPDyzaR8
Thursday, February 4, 2010
7 days
I woke up this morning at wanted to know what the countdown was for my adventures. I have been pretty laid back and wanting to just take one day at a time. It's been going great for me and I haven't been stressed out, well not TOO stressed out at least. It was suprising when I looked at the calendar on my phone and realized I was leaving the country in SEVEN days. Seven. I know, crazy! So when I wrote my first blog yesterday saying how yeah I was leaving in a couple of weeks I was just kidding. I am leaving in well now six days since technically it is now February 5th. I cannot believe it! I had a wonderful day though. Got up late...finished loading things in my car for the most part. I will have a nice box of toiletries to accompany in the passengers side on my ride home Saturday :) I had a few other things that needed to be done today such as getting my classes approved. Oops haha yeah...about that. Marsha was out of the office when I got my butt in gear so it looks like Miss procrastination will have to have her sign it off tomorrow. Oh well, it will get done right?
Anyways...so while I was home alone when Lauren was making herself useful....babysitting and making money and all I was writing notes on heart post-its. I think I ended up writing about 20-25 notes at least when everything was done. I still want to add more since Lauren already found four! I wanted to leave little fun hidden notes around in the apartment though for my roomie so she could just randomly come accross them and would hopefully brighten up her day. She is amzing and I will miss her beautiful smile when I'm gone. So Lauren, if you read this, let the search begin! I hope you keep the notes and do as they say...well as some of them say. Some are just made to make you smile, but others are orders!
Tonight Lauren and I had a girls night planned: "Just the two of us, building castles in the sky, just the two of us, you and I." Ok. Anyways...we were going to go out and get some food and have a few drinks, because well...we can. We both just turned 21 and we live downtown. Yeah...we're cool...whatever. So we head to Juanosl, the Moorhead one, like planned. No big deal...just chattin away with Lauren. We get inside and look who is there...my friends! Andrew, Sam, Mitch, and Pam were all there. Looks like another great wolf pack! Then Annika, Chelsey, and Janelle joined in later. It was a complete suprise. I have such awesome friends. Thanks guys! They weren't serving food anymore, but the waitress was really nice and ended up brining us some chips and salsa and when Annika came she brought me an ice cream cake that said "Have Fun in New Zealand Haylee!" She also gave me a wonderful gift. Thanks girlie. Lauren and I hadn't eaten yet, but we were really diggin this Juanos atmosphere and well Pizza Patrol is right next door. We asked the waitress if she was cool with us eatin some pizza in the restaurant and she was so Sam ordered the pizza. It was great and just wonderful that we were even allowed to do that. Later Janelle was teaching me some of the dance that they learned tonight at class. I'm bummed that I will be missing out on that. I LOVE my dance girls. It didn't really feel like I was saying goodbye and not going to see them for a long time when I left tonight. I honestly think that every girl on that team brings their own fun energy and life to our team. I absolutely love it and I am excited to see everyone when I get back!
Anyways...so while I was home alone when Lauren was making herself useful....babysitting and making money and all I was writing notes on heart post-its. I think I ended up writing about 20-25 notes at least when everything was done. I still want to add more since Lauren already found four! I wanted to leave little fun hidden notes around in the apartment though for my roomie so she could just randomly come accross them and would hopefully brighten up her day. She is amzing and I will miss her beautiful smile when I'm gone. So Lauren, if you read this, let the search begin! I hope you keep the notes and do as they say...well as some of them say. Some are just made to make you smile, but others are orders!
Tonight Lauren and I had a girls night planned: "Just the two of us, building castles in the sky, just the two of us, you and I." Ok. Anyways...we were going to go out and get some food and have a few drinks, because well...we can. We both just turned 21 and we live downtown. Yeah...we're cool...whatever. So we head to Juanosl, the Moorhead one, like planned. No big deal...just chattin away with Lauren. We get inside and look who is there...my friends! Andrew, Sam, Mitch, and Pam were all there. Looks like another great wolf pack! Then Annika, Chelsey, and Janelle joined in later. It was a complete suprise. I have such awesome friends. Thanks guys! They weren't serving food anymore, but the waitress was really nice and ended up brining us some chips and salsa and when Annika came she brought me an ice cream cake that said "Have Fun in New Zealand Haylee!" She also gave me a wonderful gift. Thanks girlie. Lauren and I hadn't eaten yet, but we were really diggin this Juanos atmosphere and well Pizza Patrol is right next door. We asked the waitress if she was cool with us eatin some pizza in the restaurant and she was so Sam ordered the pizza. It was great and just wonderful that we were even allowed to do that. Later Janelle was teaching me some of the dance that they learned tonight at class. I'm bummed that I will be missing out on that. I LOVE my dance girls. It didn't really feel like I was saying goodbye and not going to see them for a long time when I left tonight. I honestly think that every girl on that team brings their own fun energy and life to our team. I absolutely love it and I am excited to see everyone when I get back!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
My first blog. My bags are packed and I only have a few more to put in my red alero. I leave home on Saturday. I CANNOT wait to see my family! It's weird to think that I will not be able to drive a couple of hours to see their faces in a few short weeks. It hasn't really hit me that I will be leaving for FIVE months. That is a very long time in my book. The longest I have been away where I did NOT have an option what so ever to come home was my trip to Hawaii in tenth grade for a week and my trip to Spain in eleventh for two weeks. For some reason I am just super excited. It might be because I will be completely on my own and independent. When I was little I loved to bug my brothers and try to fit in with them and play video games. I look at this experience as a level in my life that i have to beat. It's kind of a challenge and I can't wait to press the start button!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)