These are the four students I hung out with most and got the closest to:
Colin-
He is a sophomore and is a very caring, fun, and loving guy. We became very close on this trip, sharing problems and stories about home, friends, and relationships. We gave each other a lot of massages---I am grateful to find someone who loved them as much as me and didn't care if we did them all the time--score!! After getting to know Colin, I knew I could count on him for anything and everything. He was such a great guy, he gave me a lot of sarcasm, but I dished it right back. He unfortunately is transferring to William and Mary (he got in the last day we were in NZ-such excitement that day). I am so proud of him, sad that he is leaving, but excited for him to start something new!
Colin is part of band called Dreams of University. He plays guitar and is sick beat-boxer. His band is pretty successful-he has done many concert is multiple states and at many universities, however, his singer has recently resigned. The band did just pick up a new singer, but at this time they are not performing and on a hold. Colin's style is pretty punk, he does own and wear girls pants (which came in handy one evening when I needed his white pants in Sydney because I could wear his). He also loves the artist Childish Gambino who is a rapper and great one liners in his songs. He had a severe mohawk too when we go to Lennox until his hair grew out.
Colin is a great listener and always there to comfort, support, and help me and any other student. Lots of the students went to him to talk and he was always waiting with a hug. He is a very psychologically focused individual and helped a lot of students with issues/problems they were having with bf/gf/emotions.
Abby-
She is my cabin-mate and a junior at BSU. She was my assistant who helped me a lot over the semester. We started out sharing a room since one of the cabins wasn't ready when we arrived and two other students lived in my cabin, but once they moved out, Abby and I decided to still live together and just have a spare room. I liked having someone to talk to right before bed and some always there. She was a mom to the whole group and me. She did a lot of the cleaning and cooking in my cabin when I would be running around taking care of things. She talked her mom 2-3x/day on skype and her mom became my mom. Her mom would send Abby, Colin, and I packages for all the holidays and for no reason at all---so sweet!! Abby was a worry wort though--she always expected the worst and was not a huge risk taker, but she grew a lot this semester. She stepped out of her comfort zone and backpacking trips and even camped a few times in a van when we traveled in NZ. I look forward to the dinners and sleepovers we plan to have next fall.
Casey-
She is freshmen who was very competitive and loved soccer and volleyball. She is very sweet girl, I went over to cabin 1 one morning and crawled into her bed with her. Shes quite tiny but hugging and cuddling with her is perfect because when standing she fits right under my chin! She can rest on my chest and I can place my chin on her head--we fit like a puzzle. She also loved to play scrabble as do I which is great. We had a long over 2 hr conversation one day when we kayaked on the lake talking about relationships and future plans. She unfortunately is transferring as well, however, she is just going to St. Francis in Indiana so I will be able to see her still.
Cami-
She is a tall, red head senior who loves biology. She is such a warm person though she is very opinionated. She loves to snuggle and play chef! She is a very religious individual though very comfortable with her sexuality (smacked my behind a few times when I wasn't even that close to her yet). Her cinnamon apples were the best and he made an awesome pineapple upside down cake mmmmmm!
Australia Spring 2011
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Second May 1--arrived in LA, explored Santa Monica
After arriving in LAX, it took only an hour or so to get through customs. Customs consisted of waiting in a long line to get my passport checked and then finding my bags and bringing them to get checked. No one else's bags got checked but mine because I said I had an apple and it is not allowed to bring in Fruits and Veggies into other countries. All I had to do was send all my bad through a scanner and give them my apple and I was good to go!
I was expecting American customs to be more harsh from what others were saying, but it was not invasive and rather simple. I had to then drop my bags at the connecting baggage and proceed out.
Colin and I had to get our boarding passes for the next flight so we figured we would just get it now. Colin had a little trouble getting his boarding pass due to some confusion with the airline, his ticket was under another students name but we got it all figured out.
Then his dancer friend came to get him and I left to hang out in Santa Monica. I just took a free shuttle to the bus stop and then public bus for $1 to the pier and promenade. I walked to the beach, walked the pier, and looked at the stores at the promenade. It was kind of nice to have some time alone and I just walked where I wanted to go. I got free internet at the food court so I sat there for a bit checking my email and tried 7 different flavors of frozen yogurt in the promenade. By this time it was about time to head back to the bus stop. Again the fair was only $1 and then hopped on the free shuttle to the airport.
I found some of the students were sitting at the gate and we all hung out until boarding at 11PM. Once we all boarded, I guess the plane was having some safety issues and we had to have 3 mechanics come to try and fix it, however, the plane was telling them that it was unsafe to fly. I guess I should be grateful that we didn't take it and something unfortunate happened, but this meant we were delayed an hour and a half and we had to get off and board another plane. We got off around 12:45AM and took off finally just after 1 AM.
I slept on most of this plane which was nice, but I was really ready to be home. This pilot performed the best landing I have ever experienced. He graced the bottom of the ground, never touching it on the landing. I never felt the plane hit the ground and couldn't tell we were even on the ground, thats how softly he landed.
We got to the gate around 7:20AM which put everyone who had a connection a little delayed.
All the Indy connections were made because Dr. Avila got them to hold the flight for them to run through the airport, however, Colin missed his so I waited with him to reschedule his flight. Once he got it straightened out, I went down to baggage check to find my family. Right as I came down the elevator, Brando and Lauren ran to me. I saw my mom and dad with both of my suitcases already off the belt, making their way to me. I got a bit teary eyed seeing them running toward me. My mom was crying and I gave her and my dad huge hugs!! It felt so good to be back home!
We went right out to eat at LaPetite---mmm American food!!! It was very weird to be in a car though and be driven on the other side of the car. I think that will be the biggest adjustment for starters, going back to the right side of the road and the left side of the car. (When I drove the first time the next day, I pulled out on the left side of the street and also put the windshield wipers on and not the turn signal---oops!)
I had a lot to unpack and show when I got home. I went and surprised Kylie at her soccer game, but I think the jetl-ag was setting in because I kept falling asleep at the game and it was only 5PM.
The best feeling though was seeing everyone in my family and getting into my own bed!!! It feels great to be back and I can't wait to share all my adventures!!
I was expecting American customs to be more harsh from what others were saying, but it was not invasive and rather simple. I had to then drop my bags at the connecting baggage and proceed out.
Colin and I had to get our boarding passes for the next flight so we figured we would just get it now. Colin had a little trouble getting his boarding pass due to some confusion with the airline, his ticket was under another students name but we got it all figured out.
Then his dancer friend came to get him and I left to hang out in Santa Monica. I just took a free shuttle to the bus stop and then public bus for $1 to the pier and promenade. I walked to the beach, walked the pier, and looked at the stores at the promenade. It was kind of nice to have some time alone and I just walked where I wanted to go. I got free internet at the food court so I sat there for a bit checking my email and tried 7 different flavors of frozen yogurt in the promenade. By this time it was about time to head back to the bus stop. Again the fair was only $1 and then hopped on the free shuttle to the airport.
I found some of the students were sitting at the gate and we all hung out until boarding at 11PM. Once we all boarded, I guess the plane was having some safety issues and we had to have 3 mechanics come to try and fix it, however, the plane was telling them that it was unsafe to fly. I guess I should be grateful that we didn't take it and something unfortunate happened, but this meant we were delayed an hour and a half and we had to get off and board another plane. We got off around 12:45AM and took off finally just after 1 AM.
I slept on most of this plane which was nice, but I was really ready to be home. This pilot performed the best landing I have ever experienced. He graced the bottom of the ground, never touching it on the landing. I never felt the plane hit the ground and couldn't tell we were even on the ground, thats how softly he landed.
We got to the gate around 7:20AM which put everyone who had a connection a little delayed.
All the Indy connections were made because Dr. Avila got them to hold the flight for them to run through the airport, however, Colin missed his so I waited with him to reschedule his flight. Once he got it straightened out, I went down to baggage check to find my family. Right as I came down the elevator, Brando and Lauren ran to me. I saw my mom and dad with both of my suitcases already off the belt, making their way to me. I got a bit teary eyed seeing them running toward me. My mom was crying and I gave her and my dad huge hugs!! It felt so good to be back home!
We went right out to eat at LaPetite---mmm American food!!! It was very weird to be in a car though and be driven on the other side of the car. I think that will be the biggest adjustment for starters, going back to the right side of the road and the left side of the car. (When I drove the first time the next day, I pulled out on the left side of the street and also put the windshield wipers on and not the turn signal---oops!)
I had a lot to unpack and show when I got home. I went and surprised Kylie at her soccer game, but I think the jetl-ag was setting in because I kept falling asleep at the game and it was only 5PM.
The best feeling though was seeing everyone in my family and getting into my own bed!!! It feels great to be back and I can't wait to share all my adventures!!
The first May 1--Auckland city to airport, flew to LA
I woke up around 8:30, repacked me stuff and checked out around 10 from the hostel. We walked around Queens Street which was the main drag for about an hour and then took the Airbus back to the airport. We had to get our bags out of storage, repack my bags to get them the right weight and then check in. Luckily I got to check two bags at check-in and I marked them fragile to keep my souvenirs safe.
Auckland airport had free internet on three computers and I decided to check my email which meant I had to wait for a computer to become open and then jumped on.
We proceeded through security and surprisingly I got through with all my food except for one jar (I had two) of peanut butter (and it was the gross pb anyway). I had a jar of jelly and another jar of pb which they didn't even touch. Once we passed security, I met up with a few more BSU students and we hung out in the lounge area. I walked around to the other shops to waste time and a pb&j sandwich for lunch. We had about 3 hours to hang out so we played card games and shopped around. More and more students started meeting up and then the Avilas came too and we all headed to the gate. About 6:45PM, we all boarded the plane. The plane again was huge, however, not as high-tech (no touch screens this time, we had small remotes in the arm rests). All of us sat relatively close, either in the same aisles or across from each other.
It was freezing on the plane when I stepped on, but there was a pillow, a blanket, and headphones awaiting me at my seat. I started a movie ("No Strings Attached") right away when I got on. About an hour in, we were served dinner--I got a vegan meal just to be safe and got a fruit cup, salad cup, 2 rice/corn patties, steamed vegetables and beans--it was okay, a little bland but was filling. After dinner, I went to sleep and slept solid for about 4 hours. When I woke up, the plane was dark and everyone was sleeping. I had to get up and walk around a little, but then I laid back down for another 3 hours.
When I woke up this time, breakfast was being served. I had: 2 corn patties, mushrooms, 2 manicotti-looking things, OJ, cereal and soy milk, and a fruit cup. Again it wasn't bad but rather bland---kinda disappointed with the meals on this flight and the other students got pancakes----How are those not vegetarian it beats me.
After breakfast, I got up and stretched in the back of the plane for about a half hour and walked around. I listened to music for the rest of the flight and filled out declaration sheets. The plane ride went very fast for me, I mean I slept more of it, but it felt like only a few hours and we were landing. I guess there was some really bad turbulence and I just slept right through it. I also felt like I was eating the whole time. New Zealand Air took very good care of me and always made me feel comfortable.
We landed at 12:30PM in LAX to relive May 1st all over again.
Auckland airport had free internet on three computers and I decided to check my email which meant I had to wait for a computer to become open and then jumped on.
We proceeded through security and surprisingly I got through with all my food except for one jar (I had two) of peanut butter (and it was the gross pb anyway). I had a jar of jelly and another jar of pb which they didn't even touch. Once we passed security, I met up with a few more BSU students and we hung out in the lounge area. I walked around to the other shops to waste time and a pb&j sandwich for lunch. We had about 3 hours to hang out so we played card games and shopped around. More and more students started meeting up and then the Avilas came too and we all headed to the gate. About 6:45PM, we all boarded the plane. The plane again was huge, however, not as high-tech (no touch screens this time, we had small remotes in the arm rests). All of us sat relatively close, either in the same aisles or across from each other.
It was freezing on the plane when I stepped on, but there was a pillow, a blanket, and headphones awaiting me at my seat. I started a movie ("No Strings Attached") right away when I got on. About an hour in, we were served dinner--I got a vegan meal just to be safe and got a fruit cup, salad cup, 2 rice/corn patties, steamed vegetables and beans--it was okay, a little bland but was filling. After dinner, I went to sleep and slept solid for about 4 hours. When I woke up, the plane was dark and everyone was sleeping. I had to get up and walk around a little, but then I laid back down for another 3 hours.
When I woke up this time, breakfast was being served. I had: 2 corn patties, mushrooms, 2 manicotti-looking things, OJ, cereal and soy milk, and a fruit cup. Again it wasn't bad but rather bland---kinda disappointed with the meals on this flight and the other students got pancakes----How are those not vegetarian it beats me.
After breakfast, I got up and stretched in the back of the plane for about a half hour and walked around. I listened to music for the rest of the flight and filled out declaration sheets. The plane ride went very fast for me, I mean I slept more of it, but it felt like only a few hours and we were landing. I guess there was some really bad turbulence and I just slept right through it. I also felt like I was eating the whole time. New Zealand Air took very good care of me and always made me feel comfortable.
We landed at 12:30PM in LAX to relive May 1st all over again.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Flew Queenstown to Auckland-went to Auckland city/walk and meet other students
I slept very well---the bed was so comfy (compared to a van). I slept on the top bunk above Jenn.I got up around 8AM and found Misha staring at me at the side of my bed.Startled me a little, but them I laughed---the best way to wake up honestly--laughing that is not Misha standing by my bed hahaha. After that warm wake-up, I jumped off the top bunk, repacked my stuff, and we were off to the airport.
First we had to stop and fill up the vans for the last time. At the gas station we ran into Mark and his mom who had also been touring NZ too. We followed each other to the drop off the vans and all checked in together. Unfortunately all our flights were jumbled up and we flew 2 and 3 on 3 different flights due to online booking and tickets getting sold out before everyone was on.
Everyone was on the first flight together but Abby and Colin, but they had theirs only like 2 hours later. This first flight was only 45 minutes (still got an Anzac cookie, chips, and a drink) and stopped in Christchurch where I had a 2.5 hour lay-over. Rory and I were the only two on this next flight together (others had different connecting flights) so we just walked around the airport. In Christchurch is where the earthquake, however, I didn't see any damage directly. The cashier in one of the stores said they would be closing the next day and opening in their new facility, so I am assuming there had been some damage to the airport. I never left the airport either so that could be the reason I didn't see anything anyway. The three hours went pretty fast because I napped for about an hour and when I woke up, there was only 20 minutes until boarding and then I was back in the air. The flight to Auckland was only an hour and I got more Anzacs (I am really going to miss this biscuits they call them (cookies in America) because they are so good), chips, and a drink again. (That would never happen in the States--sometimes on 3-4 hours rides they don't offer anything). The flight was very smooth and once I landed in Auckland I had to go from the International airport to meet up with the rest of the group.
We repacked some of our bags and then decided to head to Auckland city for the night. We took the Air bus to the city which took about 30 minutes. We booked rooms at another Base hostel and went there to check-in. Then we all ran out to grab some dinner, I had some subway and then went back to the hostel to shower. Again the shower was a 20 second button which I had to constantly hit, but it did its job and I was out. We decided to head out on the town that night. The first stop as Freddy's Ice House, however, I chose not to go in. It cost NZ$25 for 30 minutes to stand in a small Ice bar. I guess it had some ice statues, the bar was completely ice, and about -5.5 degrees Celsius.They provide gloves, and a coat for those entering in.
I just waited outside and walked the harbour as the others went in. I took a stroll by the water, checked out the neat boats, walked by a ton of restaurants, saw some interesting people out that night (lots of costumes out that night, a 40-50 year old in a red, sparkly unitard, and lots of young, drunk kids).
I met back up with the others and we decided to head to the Globe bar which was the bar attached to our hostel. It wasn't hopping yet, and when I walked in I saw two stripper poles on the dance floor--kinda risque if you ask me. We only took a peek and then went to find the other BSU students apartment which they rented for a week as they stayed in Auckland. It was a good walk, about 20 minutes or so---including a few steep hills (which I enjoyed). It was nice being reunited once again! We hung out at the 2 bedroom apt for an hour, just filling each other in on what we did and where we went and then went back to the hostel.
Colin and I decided to go back down to the Globe which was now packed so we danced a little and then headed back to the room. We had a 6 bedroom dorm this time and shared it with a German girl backpacking around. She was very nice and we chatted for a little bit while we were there but not for long. Once I got back to the room it was bedtime for me---only one more day in NZ :(
First we had to stop and fill up the vans for the last time. At the gas station we ran into Mark and his mom who had also been touring NZ too. We followed each other to the drop off the vans and all checked in together. Unfortunately all our flights were jumbled up and we flew 2 and 3 on 3 different flights due to online booking and tickets getting sold out before everyone was on.
Everyone was on the first flight together but Abby and Colin, but they had theirs only like 2 hours later. This first flight was only 45 minutes (still got an Anzac cookie, chips, and a drink) and stopped in Christchurch where I had a 2.5 hour lay-over. Rory and I were the only two on this next flight together (others had different connecting flights) so we just walked around the airport. In Christchurch is where the earthquake, however, I didn't see any damage directly. The cashier in one of the stores said they would be closing the next day and opening in their new facility, so I am assuming there had been some damage to the airport. I never left the airport either so that could be the reason I didn't see anything anyway. The three hours went pretty fast because I napped for about an hour and when I woke up, there was only 20 minutes until boarding and then I was back in the air. The flight to Auckland was only an hour and I got more Anzacs (I am really going to miss this biscuits they call them (cookies in America) because they are so good), chips, and a drink again. (That would never happen in the States--sometimes on 3-4 hours rides they don't offer anything). The flight was very smooth and once I landed in Auckland I had to go from the International airport to meet up with the rest of the group.
We repacked some of our bags and then decided to head to Auckland city for the night. We took the Air bus to the city which took about 30 minutes. We booked rooms at another Base hostel and went there to check-in. Then we all ran out to grab some dinner, I had some subway and then went back to the hostel to shower. Again the shower was a 20 second button which I had to constantly hit, but it did its job and I was out. We decided to head out on the town that night. The first stop as Freddy's Ice House, however, I chose not to go in. It cost NZ$25 for 30 minutes to stand in a small Ice bar. I guess it had some ice statues, the bar was completely ice, and about -5.5 degrees Celsius.They provide gloves, and a coat for those entering in.
I just waited outside and walked the harbour as the others went in. I took a stroll by the water, checked out the neat boats, walked by a ton of restaurants, saw some interesting people out that night (lots of costumes out that night, a 40-50 year old in a red, sparkly unitard, and lots of young, drunk kids).
I met back up with the others and we decided to head to the Globe bar which was the bar attached to our hostel. It wasn't hopping yet, and when I walked in I saw two stripper poles on the dance floor--kinda risque if you ask me. We only took a peek and then went to find the other BSU students apartment which they rented for a week as they stayed in Auckland. It was a good walk, about 20 minutes or so---including a few steep hills (which I enjoyed). It was nice being reunited once again! We hung out at the 2 bedroom apt for an hour, just filling each other in on what we did and where we went and then went back to the hostel.
Colin and I decided to go back down to the Globe which was now packed so we danced a little and then headed back to the room. We had a 6 bedroom dorm this time and shared it with a German girl backpacking around. She was very nice and we chatted for a little bit while we were there but not for long. Once I got back to the room it was bedtime for me---only one more day in NZ :(
Friday, April 29, 2011
Queenstown Explore/Zipline/Furgburger
I slept very well on this couch---it was very comfy compared to the van I guess! I got up at 9:30AM, packed up my stuff, Misha brought all of us some breakfast from the buffet to share. We had to check out by 10 and get Misha to his bungee jump. The rest of us looked around the bustling town and then had to move the vans---being in a town, it was back to time allotted parking. Colin and I decided to go zip-lining and we signed up to go at 4.
I decided to do a hike on my own up the huge Gondola (long ski lift). The hike was rather exhausting and difficult. It was completely up-hill and the path was made mostly of tree stubs, rock edges, and dirt. There was another path called the Vertigo path on the way up which was for dirt bikers--there were a few bikes that flew past me on their way down---one even coming a little too close, all I head was "watch out girl" and he zipped behind me. The second part of the path was a dirt and rock road. Cars I guess can drive up here on this road, but mostly its for walkers, runners, climbers. The hike usually takes about an hour, I was hauling it so I go up there within 40 minutes. What a magnificent view. I was out of breath several times on the way up and especially at the top but once i got up there it was well worth it. Surrounded by mountains and huge lake, I could see the entire town from there too! I saw the bungee jump-off, paragliding,a chairlift, the luge (racecar/bumper car course which went from the top of the chairlift to the Gondola), and gift shop (bought a beautiful necklace made from the native shell-peril shells).
I decided to continue hiking and started on the Ben Lemond hike (5 hour round trip hike for fit individuals the books suggested). The hike had a couple terrains to walk on--the first was dirt and rocks like the other I just took. The path was about a foot wide only. I walked through two forestry parts with very tall trees and much shade. The temperatures would change up there---since one minute I would be blazing in the sun on the side of this hill and the next be in trees and putting more layers on.
The second terrain was more sand and mud. This part was wet some of the time so my shoes were sliding and by the end completely covered. The sights were incredible though---I was walking on this hill and the mountains kept wrapping around me. I was facing the mountains and the lake and more and more expanded as I ventured around this hill. Such natural beauty---I never would have stopped on this track if I didn't have to go zipline soon. The only scary part of that the path was so narrow and the fall was so dangerous and deadly off the side of the hill if I even made one wrong step. I was freaking myself out being all alone, but I only crossed paths with 4 people or so, again that same good thing made me nervous too---what if I had trouble or needed help---no one was there! I was in the middle of nowhere so I was extra careful----the way down was more scary because now I was slipping down-hill. My heart start pounding twice when I slipped in the mud and thought it was it but I caught myself and kept trekking down. I love the hike, but had to turn around after about 40 minutes to get back to the Gondola.When the path got too muddy, I decided to turn around. On my way back, I heard two mountain goats in the distance making some weird noises and communicating in some way. I could only hear them, I couldn't see them at all. Passing a couple, they warn me to watch out for mountain goats, but I didn't come across any at all. Probably should have worn real hiking boots because my shoes were just covered in mud by the time I walked back.
I added a small hike up to the Skyline Loop where I can to the top of the chairlift and the beginning of the luge. I took some more pics of the beautiful scenery and then headed down to find Colin. He was waiting by the gift shop so we walked around a bit, i ate the lunch I packed, and then we went and checked in at the Zip-line treehouse. Colin was very nervous because he was scared of heights but he really wanted to do this. I said I would do it too, but I was looking to make it more adventurous and fly upside down.
The first step was getting some gear----gloves, hats for warmth, hard hat for safety, and harness. We looked super cool and very official in our gear--lol! We met our guides, heard some safety rules, and then were off to the first line.
The first line was the shortest just to give us a feel for it---we were allowed to do whatever we wanted! For ziplining, the guides hooked us up, controlled our braking speed, but we didn't have to hold any ropes or our own cords at all. I was a little nervous for the first one to see what it felt like, but very excited. Colin's teeth were chattering a lot, but he went before me and had a great time. Once I was clipped in, the safety door opened and I walked down about 4-5 stairs before weight was put on the cord and I took off down the line.
1-flew straight forward, lifted legs on the side, flew with no hands, swinging my legs and arms around
2-Guide taught us how to go upside down so I walked off backwards down the step, threw my head back, tucked my feet up, and released my hands---wow what a thrill!
3-Zipped upside down again, only hooked one foot this time and shot the other in arabesque. I guess the guide was impressed too Colin said after I went.
4-I videotaped this one while riding. This last one was 3x as long as the others so I went upside down, then face up to film the beautiful mountains I was passing, and then flipped upside down again.
I felt so free on the lines, and very safe. I liked how I could fool around on it and what a blast! I was very proud of Colin--he had a lot of fun!
To get to the next zipline, we had to walk down the treehouse and the next tree house was right there. As we traveled tree houses, the guides shared information about how NZ is working more and more on sustainability. The guides shared how the world needs to improve the sustainability of the land for future generations. Ziptrek is also dedicated to being a sustainable company. All of their power is generated by solar power panels on top of the trees and also a stationary bike at the check-in treehouse. I rode the bike when I first checked in and we were waiting for the other zipliners and to keep myself warm. The ziplines were not permanently embedded into the trees so when the tree grows, screw could be undone and adjusted to fit the new growth. At the last line, the guides shared how one of the guides is creating a new project for Laos---providing clean water system, sanitation system, and power system for the people who have nothing. One thing I thought was a phenomenal idea was the way he generated power. He was building a merry-go-round which kids would play on all day and then generate power at night for the neighborhoods. How neat is that!!! I hope his ideas take off and America adopts some of them too!
After the last line, we had to walk back up to the check-in treehouse to get our bags and then we walked all the way down the Gondola. It took about 40 minutes to get down. The sun was setting now so about half way down we were traveling in the dark, but luckily we had our flashlights. The path on the way down was just as tricky as on the way up. The path is not well distinguished in the light and in the dark its even worse so I slipped and missteped a couple times. Some parts were really steep too and I had to almost jump down.
Once we reached the bottom, we met up with the other students and went to Fergburger (known burger joint with wacky names and giant burgers). A typical burger was the size of my hand. I decided to get a kids Spring Chicken burger (NZ$7) so it was a bit smaller but delicious. This place was the hot spot though, constantly busy, burgers coming out nonstop.
Once we ate, we headed back to Base (our hostel). We got an eight bedroom dorm to share for NZ$25/person. This was a very nice hostel--beds were really comfy, the shower though had a button which had to be pushed every 20 sec to keep the water going or it would turn off. I guess that saves water! It was kind of annoying, but I got in and got out as fast as possible.
We each got a free drink for staying there so we got our free ticket and went to the bar. At the bar, I bumped into the girls who climbed with us on the Glacier who were also drive from Fox Glacier and were staying at Base that night too. We chatted about our adventures that day and then the rest of the BSU students and I went upstairs to shower. We all were really tired and ended up staying in the room that night playing some scrabble- I played with Rory, Misha, and Colin. I also go into a wrestling match with Colin somehow---we were playing around and laughing. He pinned me down a few times, but I seemed to get myself out every time. He is much like a brother to me and we pick on each other like we are siblings. We had a lot of fun just chilling in the room together. I had every intention of going back down to the bar for Ladies Night, but we were all too exhausted. I went to bed around 11-11:30PM. My calves were a bit sore and I was pooped so I climbed into the top bunk and went to bed. We all said goodnight to each other and Misha decided to say to goodnight to every one singularly which made me smile. We all have grown so close together its going to be very hard to say good-bye in a few days.
I don't want to think about good-bye, I have made some great friends and I will miss them all.
Minutes later I was asleep.
I decided to do a hike on my own up the huge Gondola (long ski lift). The hike was rather exhausting and difficult. It was completely up-hill and the path was made mostly of tree stubs, rock edges, and dirt. There was another path called the Vertigo path on the way up which was for dirt bikers--there were a few bikes that flew past me on their way down---one even coming a little too close, all I head was "watch out girl" and he zipped behind me. The second part of the path was a dirt and rock road. Cars I guess can drive up here on this road, but mostly its for walkers, runners, climbers. The hike usually takes about an hour, I was hauling it so I go up there within 40 minutes. What a magnificent view. I was out of breath several times on the way up and especially at the top but once i got up there it was well worth it. Surrounded by mountains and huge lake, I could see the entire town from there too! I saw the bungee jump-off, paragliding,a chairlift, the luge (racecar/bumper car course which went from the top of the chairlift to the Gondola), and gift shop (bought a beautiful necklace made from the native shell-peril shells).
I decided to continue hiking and started on the Ben Lemond hike (5 hour round trip hike for fit individuals the books suggested). The hike had a couple terrains to walk on--the first was dirt and rocks like the other I just took. The path was about a foot wide only. I walked through two forestry parts with very tall trees and much shade. The temperatures would change up there---since one minute I would be blazing in the sun on the side of this hill and the next be in trees and putting more layers on.
The second terrain was more sand and mud. This part was wet some of the time so my shoes were sliding and by the end completely covered. The sights were incredible though---I was walking on this hill and the mountains kept wrapping around me. I was facing the mountains and the lake and more and more expanded as I ventured around this hill. Such natural beauty---I never would have stopped on this track if I didn't have to go zipline soon. The only scary part of that the path was so narrow and the fall was so dangerous and deadly off the side of the hill if I even made one wrong step. I was freaking myself out being all alone, but I only crossed paths with 4 people or so, again that same good thing made me nervous too---what if I had trouble or needed help---no one was there! I was in the middle of nowhere so I was extra careful----the way down was more scary because now I was slipping down-hill. My heart start pounding twice when I slipped in the mud and thought it was it but I caught myself and kept trekking down. I love the hike, but had to turn around after about 40 minutes to get back to the Gondola.When the path got too muddy, I decided to turn around. On my way back, I heard two mountain goats in the distance making some weird noises and communicating in some way. I could only hear them, I couldn't see them at all. Passing a couple, they warn me to watch out for mountain goats, but I didn't come across any at all. Probably should have worn real hiking boots because my shoes were just covered in mud by the time I walked back.
I added a small hike up to the Skyline Loop where I can to the top of the chairlift and the beginning of the luge. I took some more pics of the beautiful scenery and then headed down to find Colin. He was waiting by the gift shop so we walked around a bit, i ate the lunch I packed, and then we went and checked in at the Zip-line treehouse. Colin was very nervous because he was scared of heights but he really wanted to do this. I said I would do it too, but I was looking to make it more adventurous and fly upside down.
The first step was getting some gear----gloves, hats for warmth, hard hat for safety, and harness. We looked super cool and very official in our gear--lol! We met our guides, heard some safety rules, and then were off to the first line.
The first line was the shortest just to give us a feel for it---we were allowed to do whatever we wanted! For ziplining, the guides hooked us up, controlled our braking speed, but we didn't have to hold any ropes or our own cords at all. I was a little nervous for the first one to see what it felt like, but very excited. Colin's teeth were chattering a lot, but he went before me and had a great time. Once I was clipped in, the safety door opened and I walked down about 4-5 stairs before weight was put on the cord and I took off down the line.
1-flew straight forward, lifted legs on the side, flew with no hands, swinging my legs and arms around
2-Guide taught us how to go upside down so I walked off backwards down the step, threw my head back, tucked my feet up, and released my hands---wow what a thrill!
3-Zipped upside down again, only hooked one foot this time and shot the other in arabesque. I guess the guide was impressed too Colin said after I went.
4-I videotaped this one while riding. This last one was 3x as long as the others so I went upside down, then face up to film the beautiful mountains I was passing, and then flipped upside down again.
I felt so free on the lines, and very safe. I liked how I could fool around on it and what a blast! I was very proud of Colin--he had a lot of fun!
To get to the next zipline, we had to walk down the treehouse and the next tree house was right there. As we traveled tree houses, the guides shared information about how NZ is working more and more on sustainability. The guides shared how the world needs to improve the sustainability of the land for future generations. Ziptrek is also dedicated to being a sustainable company. All of their power is generated by solar power panels on top of the trees and also a stationary bike at the check-in treehouse. I rode the bike when I first checked in and we were waiting for the other zipliners and to keep myself warm. The ziplines were not permanently embedded into the trees so when the tree grows, screw could be undone and adjusted to fit the new growth. At the last line, the guides shared how one of the guides is creating a new project for Laos---providing clean water system, sanitation system, and power system for the people who have nothing. One thing I thought was a phenomenal idea was the way he generated power. He was building a merry-go-round which kids would play on all day and then generate power at night for the neighborhoods. How neat is that!!! I hope his ideas take off and America adopts some of them too!
After the last line, we had to walk back up to the check-in treehouse to get our bags and then we walked all the way down the Gondola. It took about 40 minutes to get down. The sun was setting now so about half way down we were traveling in the dark, but luckily we had our flashlights. The path on the way down was just as tricky as on the way up. The path is not well distinguished in the light and in the dark its even worse so I slipped and missteped a couple times. Some parts were really steep too and I had to almost jump down.
Once we reached the bottom, we met up with the other students and went to Fergburger (known burger joint with wacky names and giant burgers). A typical burger was the size of my hand. I decided to get a kids Spring Chicken burger (NZ$7) so it was a bit smaller but delicious. This place was the hot spot though, constantly busy, burgers coming out nonstop.
Once we ate, we headed back to Base (our hostel). We got an eight bedroom dorm to share for NZ$25/person. This was a very nice hostel--beds were really comfy, the shower though had a button which had to be pushed every 20 sec to keep the water going or it would turn off. I guess that saves water! It was kind of annoying, but I got in and got out as fast as possible.
We each got a free drink for staying there so we got our free ticket and went to the bar. At the bar, I bumped into the girls who climbed with us on the Glacier who were also drive from Fox Glacier and were staying at Base that night too. We chatted about our adventures that day and then the rest of the BSU students and I went upstairs to shower. We all were really tired and ended up staying in the room that night playing some scrabble- I played with Rory, Misha, and Colin. I also go into a wrestling match with Colin somehow---we were playing around and laughing. He pinned me down a few times, but I seemed to get myself out every time. He is much like a brother to me and we pick on each other like we are siblings. We had a lot of fun just chilling in the room together. I had every intention of going back down to the bar for Ladies Night, but we were all too exhausted. I went to bed around 11-11:30PM. My calves were a bit sore and I was pooped so I climbed into the top bunk and went to bed. We all said goodnight to each other and Misha decided to say to goodnight to every one singularly which made me smile. We all have grown so close together its going to be very hard to say good-bye in a few days.
I don't want to think about good-bye, I have made some great friends and I will miss them all.
Minutes later I was asleep.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Glacier Climb/drive to Queensown
When we woke the car was completely fogged/iced over so it took 10 minutes to defrost the van. I did not sleep that much that night because I kept waking up, readjusting and trying to keep as much covered as possible.
I woke up around 7:30AM, moved the van to the Glacier Guides parking lot, added more layers of clothing and went to check in. Colin and I were doing the full day Nimble Fox hike, Jenn the half day, and Abby was just going to hang out for the day in town.
Colin and I had to get our gear, including crampons (ice skates with traction grips on the bottom), backpack, hiking boots, hat and mittens, raincoat, and packed lunches. We met our guides for the day, mine was Andrew (mid 20-yr old, fun, joked around) and headed out to the buses. We drive about 10 minutes to get to the car park where we began the hike. The initial walk took about 45 minutes, walking through sand and rocks to begin then a beautiful rain forest. Lots of lush, green trees, bushes, moss---it was a fairly long and up-hill hike. The sun was luckily out today and I think I may have over-dressed for this part. I had 3 shirts, a sweatshirt, and raincoat on with 2 pairs of bottoms, 3 pairs of socks and boots. So I was a little warm---sweating actually. The hike just kept getting more and more steep, so I had to take off 2 layers.
The rain forest was very damp but bright green, not what I was expecting by a glacier. We made it to this one ladder part which had a chain leading to the top. We were told to hold on because the step over was pure cliff. Looking out when I got to the top, I could see the Glacier---what a majestic scene-unbelievable.
We walked to the Glacier after this. Before entering, we had to get our crampons on, applied the layers I took off back on, and started to climb/walk. The crampons were a little odd at first---felt like walking on stilts, but they gripped very nicely on the ice surface.
We had a beautiful hike--I did get a bit chilly while walking---and was being extra careful not to slip. I felt every time I moved I would fall, but the crampons really help. The glacier was not as white as I imagined, although looked kind of dirty with all the debris which were embedded from rock falls and from the glacier moving around what rock had been there. We came upon 2 waterfalls and boy is that water delicious. Crisp and cold, the best water I have every tasted. Refreshing!!
We walked about 4-5 hours on the Glacier itself. We even had out lunch just off the glacier on some rocks. I packed us a pb & j,an apple,and teddy grahams. After lunch we went back to climbing until we couldn't hike safely anymore. The cliffs were too steep. We turned back around and had to headed back the way we came. It took us a quarter of the time we took getting up going downhill and were back to the bus in no time. Getting back to the shop, reunited with Abby and Jenn. Misha, Rory, and Misha went ice climbing Fraz Joseph--not far from Fox so we met them there and then went off to Queenstown together. Alyssa and I both drove than vans. I drove the whole way there---most small winds and a few of the most extreme curves. There were a lot of animals and roadkill on the streets. I unfortunately hit a possum right after Alyssa who was in front of me hit one too.
We had to make an emergency gas stop because we were under an eighth of a tank, and then continued on-ward. Right before getting to Queenstown---we hit the most windy road possible---basically half circles and u-turns all the time. Surprising, Queentstown was still awake when we arrived at midnight.Misha got us all an hotel room which was huge---two master bedrooms and beautiful and comfy couch which I slept on for the night. We all brought our stuff inside and we sat down to watch Dilemma. It was a funny! Then it was shower time---felts so good to be clean again. We all went to bed around 2:45-3AM.
The days are going way too fast here--I am so glad we get to see both islands, lots of driving, but thats ok. The northern island---more beach lik ane AUS-like
The southern island has more adventurous!
The NZ accent funds more educational, crisp than AUS and I think I like their better.
What an action packed day---not just some rest will do, on a couch that it!
My feet were killing me by the end of the evening.
I woke up around 7:30AM, moved the van to the Glacier Guides parking lot, added more layers of clothing and went to check in. Colin and I were doing the full day Nimble Fox hike, Jenn the half day, and Abby was just going to hang out for the day in town.
Colin and I had to get our gear, including crampons (ice skates with traction grips on the bottom), backpack, hiking boots, hat and mittens, raincoat, and packed lunches. We met our guides for the day, mine was Andrew (mid 20-yr old, fun, joked around) and headed out to the buses. We drive about 10 minutes to get to the car park where we began the hike. The initial walk took about 45 minutes, walking through sand and rocks to begin then a beautiful rain forest. Lots of lush, green trees, bushes, moss---it was a fairly long and up-hill hike. The sun was luckily out today and I think I may have over-dressed for this part. I had 3 shirts, a sweatshirt, and raincoat on with 2 pairs of bottoms, 3 pairs of socks and boots. So I was a little warm---sweating actually. The hike just kept getting more and more steep, so I had to take off 2 layers.
The rain forest was very damp but bright green, not what I was expecting by a glacier. We made it to this one ladder part which had a chain leading to the top. We were told to hold on because the step over was pure cliff. Looking out when I got to the top, I could see the Glacier---what a majestic scene-unbelievable.
We walked to the Glacier after this. Before entering, we had to get our crampons on, applied the layers I took off back on, and started to climb/walk. The crampons were a little odd at first---felt like walking on stilts, but they gripped very nicely on the ice surface.
We had a beautiful hike--I did get a bit chilly while walking---and was being extra careful not to slip. I felt every time I moved I would fall, but the crampons really help. The glacier was not as white as I imagined, although looked kind of dirty with all the debris which were embedded from rock falls and from the glacier moving around what rock had been there. We came upon 2 waterfalls and boy is that water delicious. Crisp and cold, the best water I have every tasted. Refreshing!!
We walked about 4-5 hours on the Glacier itself. We even had out lunch just off the glacier on some rocks. I packed us a pb & j,an apple,and teddy grahams. After lunch we went back to climbing until we couldn't hike safely anymore. The cliffs were too steep. We turned back around and had to headed back the way we came. It took us a quarter of the time we took getting up going downhill and were back to the bus in no time. Getting back to the shop, reunited with Abby and Jenn. Misha, Rory, and Misha went ice climbing Fraz Joseph--not far from Fox so we met them there and then went off to Queenstown together. Alyssa and I both drove than vans. I drove the whole way there---most small winds and a few of the most extreme curves. There were a lot of animals and roadkill on the streets. I unfortunately hit a possum right after Alyssa who was in front of me hit one too.
We had to make an emergency gas stop because we were under an eighth of a tank, and then continued on-ward. Right before getting to Queenstown---we hit the most windy road possible---basically half circles and u-turns all the time. Surprising, Queentstown was still awake when we arrived at midnight.Misha got us all an hotel room which was huge---two master bedrooms and beautiful and comfy couch which I slept on for the night. We all brought our stuff inside and we sat down to watch Dilemma. It was a funny! Then it was shower time---felts so good to be clean again. We all went to bed around 2:45-3AM.
The days are going way too fast here--I am so glad we get to see both islands, lots of driving, but thats ok. The northern island---more beach lik ane AUS-like
The southern island has more adventurous!
The NZ accent funds more educational, crisp than AUS and I think I like their better.
What an action packed day---not just some rest will do, on a couch that it!
My feet were killing me by the end of the evening.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Dolpin Encounter/drove to Fox Glacier
Woke up at 7:15AM and went to the front desk to book my Dolphin Encounter trip. I have always wanted to swim with dolphins and I thought this would be an amazing way to do so---hundreds of wild dolphins swimming along-side me. I was very nervous, but something I really wanted to do. I had to get all my stuff out of the hostel room while not waking the other three. Colin kindly drove me down the block to the Encounter place. When I got there, I signed in and got a wetsuit---this is a full, very buoyant wetsuit, socks, flippers, snorkel and mask, and wet suit hood. From head to toe, I was officially covered. After getting on the attire, I was taking into a briefing--where we were warned these are wild dolphins and they could either swim away or play with us. We were told not to reach out for them because that would scare them and to make noises with our snorkels to get them to play with us. I was getting a little more nervous seeing how close they dolphins were going to be and that there could be anywhere from 200-700 dolphins!
After watching the video, it was time to load the bus with my group (11 others). The bus brought us to the boat at South Bay. The boat was small-medium size---one skipper and one guide. We were all instructed of emergency procedures and then we were out to find these Dusky dolphins. After about 10 minutes of jetting out into the Pacific, we came up upon a pod of dolphins. The skipper got the boat surrounded by dolphins and told us to get all our gear on. He turned off the motor, blew the horn and we all slipped into the water. I think my body went into shock---it was beyond cold--- I stuck my head down and immediately there were dolphins darting past me. They would swim right along-side me. The group and I started making the funny noises (I felt like such a weirdo, but it made the dolphins feel at home). These dolphins were not very playful and the pod swam off within 5-10 minutes so the horn blew again and we all swam toward the boat, reboarded, and were off to follow them.
Now it was cold and windy and my fingers were going numb---not a great feeling. It was only about a 5 minute drive to catch up with the dolphins and where we found more. There were hundreds--200-300 dolphins all around the boat. The horn blew again and we slipped back into the water. I couldn't get away from the dolphins now----there were 3-4 around me the entire time. These were way more playful, they were jumping out of the water, darting super close to my face and body, gracing my sides, I even got to play with one in particular. We were told to make eye contact and swim in circles and act as much like dolphins as possible----so I did just that--I put my arms behind my back, made eye contact, and got a dolphin to follow me. It was such an amazing feeling---he/she was following me round and round and round. It was a game to them. To be honest the dolphins made me a little uncomfortable because they were darting so quickly and right by my side.
My hands were completely numb by now and the waves were getting fairly large. I kept getting water in my snorkel which was making my stomach hurt. Salt water just doesn't make me feel good and I think it was combination of rocking in the water too. I was fairly far from the boat so the waves were taller than the boat and that made me nervous.We stayed out here for about 25 minutes and even though the horn didn't blow, I had to get back to the boat--which was a swim since I was pushed out by waves. When I got back to the boat, I started to feel seasick. I knew I was done being in the water and had to get my wetsuit off and get some dry clothing on to feel better.
I was shaking uncontrollably because it was so cold. I couldn't use my own fingers and that made it really hard to get my flippers off. The guide helped me a lot by pulling everything off for me as I stood there and shivered. I couldn't help my teeth chatter and body convulsions-I was the coldest I have ever been I think. Everyone else was feeling the same and we were all struggling and freezing together. Once the wetsuit was off, I got my towel and put on as much dry clothing as possible. Normally I am pretty good about changing quickly, but my body was moving in slow motion and I couldn't do anything about it---It took me longer than usual to get clothing on, and part of it was because I was being rocked around the boat. I couldn't even tie my own shoes because my fingers were so numb.
There was a couple times I thought I was going to get sick and was about to get a barf bucket, but I kept myself calm and focused on getting dressed. The guide also gave us a tube of hot water which everyone took turns with as we were changing. This was extremely warm, but being so numb I couldn't really tell--it just felt refreshing. Once I was dressed, I moved to the front of the boat to take videos/pics, get some ginger cookies (help to settle the stomach) and some hot chocolate. The hot chocolate was steaming but I was gulping it down by the cup to get warm. I was still shaking and couldn't help it.
One woman wanted to go in one more time so we waited for her to get some more pictures and then we were back to the dock. I waited at the front of the boat--eating ginger cookies to keep from getting sick.
It never felt so good to be on land. From the boat, we went back to the bus and back to the shop. I felt like I was still rocking when we got back. I jumped right into the hot shower, warming all my extremities. I still couldn't feel my toes or fingers, but just being in the hot water felt amazing. After getting dressed again, I found Jenn, Colin, and Abby (traveling with this van now because we were climbing the glacier together) waiting for me in the cafe. I guess I still looked cold and was shaking, they said. They each tried to warm me up, gave me their blankets. About a half hour into the drive, I could feel me toes and fingers again. It felt so good to be warm. Jenn luckily drove first and I got to lay down for a little. I felt a little sick in the car though----I sat in the middle row of the van. Laying down made me feel more nausea so I sat up and watched the beautiful scenery passing. This is the only day trip we would have and it was beautiful to see how massive and gorgeous the mountains are.
A few hours in, Jenn and I had to go to the bathroom and there was nothing for miles and miles and miles. There were no rest-stops so I would have to face my fear. Danielle would have to learn to squat in the wild. I was not a huge fan of this and very scared to do so. But Jenn found me a spot and coached me through----its definitely a weird feeling to go to the bathroom in public and hope we didn't have to stop again. We took only three highways the whole way to Fox Glacier. From 70--to 7--to 6. Jen drove for about 4-4.5 hours. These roads were really windy---not helping me with my motion sickness already. From the sea to the van, my stomach hurt really bad. The scenery distracted me thought---such beauty. We also came across lots and lots of sheep, cows, alpacas, and llamas. Jenn did a great job driving and even came upon some huge cliffs which she carefully drive around.
At about 7:30PM, we made a gas stop, and then I took over driving. I only drive for the last 2 hours---lots of curves and crossed 8 one-lane bridges. These were a little nerve-racking and I had to approach very cautiously. There were not many other cars on the road, but the bridges were narrow and I just wanted to be extra careful. There were a few sharp turns, but we made it to Fox Glacier within 2 hours. The town was very very tiny---one street, 3-4 cafes (only things open when we got there), gas station, and small general store. Everyone was pretty hungry so we went to one of the cafes--we walked into one and we were all looked at pretty funny---I guess we looked very tired and like we had been driving in a car for sometime--go figure! We felt uncomfortable so we went to another one where we sat, had some hot chips and talked. That night we decided to sleep in the van and cuddle each other. Colin, Jenn, and I spooned in the back and Abby had the front. We bundled each other under many blankets, but still it got very cold during the night. Abby turned the heat on twice during the night to keep us warm, and I slept with the blankets over my head. Buurrrrrrr
After watching the video, it was time to load the bus with my group (11 others). The bus brought us to the boat at South Bay. The boat was small-medium size---one skipper and one guide. We were all instructed of emergency procedures and then we were out to find these Dusky dolphins. After about 10 minutes of jetting out into the Pacific, we came up upon a pod of dolphins. The skipper got the boat surrounded by dolphins and told us to get all our gear on. He turned off the motor, blew the horn and we all slipped into the water. I think my body went into shock---it was beyond cold--- I stuck my head down and immediately there were dolphins darting past me. They would swim right along-side me. The group and I started making the funny noises (I felt like such a weirdo, but it made the dolphins feel at home). These dolphins were not very playful and the pod swam off within 5-10 minutes so the horn blew again and we all swam toward the boat, reboarded, and were off to follow them.
Now it was cold and windy and my fingers were going numb---not a great feeling. It was only about a 5 minute drive to catch up with the dolphins and where we found more. There were hundreds--200-300 dolphins all around the boat. The horn blew again and we slipped back into the water. I couldn't get away from the dolphins now----there were 3-4 around me the entire time. These were way more playful, they were jumping out of the water, darting super close to my face and body, gracing my sides, I even got to play with one in particular. We were told to make eye contact and swim in circles and act as much like dolphins as possible----so I did just that--I put my arms behind my back, made eye contact, and got a dolphin to follow me. It was such an amazing feeling---he/she was following me round and round and round. It was a game to them. To be honest the dolphins made me a little uncomfortable because they were darting so quickly and right by my side.
My hands were completely numb by now and the waves were getting fairly large. I kept getting water in my snorkel which was making my stomach hurt. Salt water just doesn't make me feel good and I think it was combination of rocking in the water too. I was fairly far from the boat so the waves were taller than the boat and that made me nervous.We stayed out here for about 25 minutes and even though the horn didn't blow, I had to get back to the boat--which was a swim since I was pushed out by waves. When I got back to the boat, I started to feel seasick. I knew I was done being in the water and had to get my wetsuit off and get some dry clothing on to feel better.
I was shaking uncontrollably because it was so cold. I couldn't use my own fingers and that made it really hard to get my flippers off. The guide helped me a lot by pulling everything off for me as I stood there and shivered. I couldn't help my teeth chatter and body convulsions-I was the coldest I have ever been I think. Everyone else was feeling the same and we were all struggling and freezing together. Once the wetsuit was off, I got my towel and put on as much dry clothing as possible. Normally I am pretty good about changing quickly, but my body was moving in slow motion and I couldn't do anything about it---It took me longer than usual to get clothing on, and part of it was because I was being rocked around the boat. I couldn't even tie my own shoes because my fingers were so numb.
There was a couple times I thought I was going to get sick and was about to get a barf bucket, but I kept myself calm and focused on getting dressed. The guide also gave us a tube of hot water which everyone took turns with as we were changing. This was extremely warm, but being so numb I couldn't really tell--it just felt refreshing. Once I was dressed, I moved to the front of the boat to take videos/pics, get some ginger cookies (help to settle the stomach) and some hot chocolate. The hot chocolate was steaming but I was gulping it down by the cup to get warm. I was still shaking and couldn't help it.
One woman wanted to go in one more time so we waited for her to get some more pictures and then we were back to the dock. I waited at the front of the boat--eating ginger cookies to keep from getting sick.
It never felt so good to be on land. From the boat, we went back to the bus and back to the shop. I felt like I was still rocking when we got back. I jumped right into the hot shower, warming all my extremities. I still couldn't feel my toes or fingers, but just being in the hot water felt amazing. After getting dressed again, I found Jenn, Colin, and Abby (traveling with this van now because we were climbing the glacier together) waiting for me in the cafe. I guess I still looked cold and was shaking, they said. They each tried to warm me up, gave me their blankets. About a half hour into the drive, I could feel me toes and fingers again. It felt so good to be warm. Jenn luckily drove first and I got to lay down for a little. I felt a little sick in the car though----I sat in the middle row of the van. Laying down made me feel more nausea so I sat up and watched the beautiful scenery passing. This is the only day trip we would have and it was beautiful to see how massive and gorgeous the mountains are.
A few hours in, Jenn and I had to go to the bathroom and there was nothing for miles and miles and miles. There were no rest-stops so I would have to face my fear. Danielle would have to learn to squat in the wild. I was not a huge fan of this and very scared to do so. But Jenn found me a spot and coached me through----its definitely a weird feeling to go to the bathroom in public and hope we didn't have to stop again. We took only three highways the whole way to Fox Glacier. From 70--to 7--to 6. Jen drove for about 4-4.5 hours. These roads were really windy---not helping me with my motion sickness already. From the sea to the van, my stomach hurt really bad. The scenery distracted me thought---such beauty. We also came across lots and lots of sheep, cows, alpacas, and llamas. Jenn did a great job driving and even came upon some huge cliffs which she carefully drive around.
At about 7:30PM, we made a gas stop, and then I took over driving. I only drive for the last 2 hours---lots of curves and crossed 8 one-lane bridges. These were a little nerve-racking and I had to approach very cautiously. There were not many other cars on the road, but the bridges were narrow and I just wanted to be extra careful. There were a few sharp turns, but we made it to Fox Glacier within 2 hours. The town was very very tiny---one street, 3-4 cafes (only things open when we got there), gas station, and small general store. Everyone was pretty hungry so we went to one of the cafes--we walked into one and we were all looked at pretty funny---I guess we looked very tired and like we had been driving in a car for sometime--go figure! We felt uncomfortable so we went to another one where we sat, had some hot chips and talked. That night we decided to sleep in the van and cuddle each other. Colin, Jenn, and I spooned in the back and Abby had the front. We bundled each other under many blankets, but still it got very cold during the night. Abby turned the heat on twice during the night to keep us warm, and I slept with the blankets over my head. Buurrrrrrr
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Wellington/Ferry/Kaikoura
I woke up in the van multiple times that night—not a good nights rest at all. The wind throughout the night was outrageous. I felt the whole van rock a couple times because of how strong the winds were. It was hard to fall asleep with the loud gushes of wind. It was also quite chilly and raining all night and this morning. There was a parking services man at our window though minutes after getting up....bumbumbum......we were getting a ticket for parking there over the allotted time. It was only NZ$40 so we split the ticket and paid it right away. Then we went to the gas station which had a McDonalds and free wifi. We hung out in the McDonalds/gas station, made some pb and j sandwiches for the ferry ride.
We drove to the ferry and were about 45 min early so we hung out in a line of cars and talked. At about 2:15PM, we boarded the ferry---drove the van right on to the bottom of the ferry and then went upstairs to the passenger level. This ferry was fairly big---had a food court (had lots of food---I remember hot chips, ice cream, and corn dogs--random I know). There was also a movie theater which cost NZ$12.50 and also an observation deck---There were about 500 people on the ferry. The rocking started to pick up and of course that's when I decided to go to the bathroom. I kept falling over in the stall--quite humorous to watch. But then my stomach started hurting so I went back and laid down. The rocking got a little worse but subsided shortly where I couldn't feel anything. The ride was about 3 hours long, we got off at about 5:45PM. I was back driving and drove right off the ferry and headed to Kaikoura.
It was only a 2 hour drive, however, through windy, mountainous roads. There were more roads on these roads. I had to pass one car on this one-lane highway which was a little nerve-racking, but successful! The wind was very abrasive, I felt it shift the wheels a little which scared me, but over-all the drive went fast and well.
Once we got to Kaikoura, we found a hostel called Dusty Lodge---most of the rooms were taken in the town so we split up according to our vans--Alyssa, MIsha, and Rory shared a double room which had 2 bunk-beds--Alyssa and I shared the bottom and Rory had the top. Misha requested the floor and he had an awesome Mink blanket he bought. Colin, Abby, and Jenn shared a triple upstairs where we made a pasta dinner from a nearby grocery store. After dinner, we all showered. I had a long talk with Colin that night about the hostility (one van drove faster and felt they were being held back by the slower van, but the slower van didn't feel comfortable driving faster) between the vans and straightened a few hurt feelings between the two.I hated this because I was driving with the faster van, but was good friends with the slower van and I was stuck in the middle of trying to get both to get along. I felt the communication that night made our relationships better, how to communicate amongst the vans, and how nervous he was to hear back from William and Mary (where he was transferring). The conversation got a little heated----we were talking at one point, arguing at another, crying the next, and comforting the next---lots of emotions, but very well understood each other at the end. By the time we were done talking it was already 2AM and I needed to get to bed. I went down to my room, climbed over Alyssa, and was out within minutes.
We drove to the ferry and were about 45 min early so we hung out in a line of cars and talked. At about 2:15PM, we boarded the ferry---drove the van right on to the bottom of the ferry and then went upstairs to the passenger level. This ferry was fairly big---had a food court (had lots of food---I remember hot chips, ice cream, and corn dogs--random I know). There was also a movie theater which cost NZ$12.50 and also an observation deck---There were about 500 people on the ferry. The rocking started to pick up and of course that's when I decided to go to the bathroom. I kept falling over in the stall--quite humorous to watch. But then my stomach started hurting so I went back and laid down. The rocking got a little worse but subsided shortly where I couldn't feel anything. The ride was about 3 hours long, we got off at about 5:45PM. I was back driving and drove right off the ferry and headed to Kaikoura.
It was only a 2 hour drive, however, through windy, mountainous roads. There were more roads on these roads. I had to pass one car on this one-lane highway which was a little nerve-racking, but successful! The wind was very abrasive, I felt it shift the wheels a little which scared me, but over-all the drive went fast and well.
Once we got to Kaikoura, we found a hostel called Dusty Lodge---most of the rooms were taken in the town so we split up according to our vans--Alyssa, MIsha, and Rory shared a double room which had 2 bunk-beds--Alyssa and I shared the bottom and Rory had the top. Misha requested the floor and he had an awesome Mink blanket he bought. Colin, Abby, and Jenn shared a triple upstairs where we made a pasta dinner from a nearby grocery store. After dinner, we all showered. I had a long talk with Colin that night about the hostility (one van drove faster and felt they were being held back by the slower van, but the slower van didn't feel comfortable driving faster) between the vans and straightened a few hurt feelings between the two.I hated this because I was driving with the faster van, but was good friends with the slower van and I was stuck in the middle of trying to get both to get along. I felt the communication that night made our relationships better, how to communicate amongst the vans, and how nervous he was to hear back from William and Mary (where he was transferring). The conversation got a little heated----we were talking at one point, arguing at another, crying the next, and comforting the next---lots of emotions, but very well understood each other at the end. By the time we were done talking it was already 2AM and I needed to get to bed. I went down to my room, climbed over Alyssa, and was out within minutes.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Jucy van/drive/gardens/mud pools/mt drive/sleep in van
Because I slept on that McDonald's sofa couch which was surprising comfortable, however, I did not get much sleep because I was worried about our bags sitting out and very nervous about the next few days of travel. This morning I got up around 7AM. I had a huge swollen eye this morning which everyone made me aware of-I woke up to Abby saying, "Oh my god your eye"-so I went to the bathroom and yes indeed my eye was completely swollen, puffy, and still bloodshot. My eye felt very stiff, so I put some of Abbys drops in it, hoping the swelling goes down.
We got breakfast and then headed to the door to find the Jucy car rental guy who would take us to their office building where we got our two vans. Abby was driving Van 1 and I was driving van 2 for starters. We were about to start a 5 day exploration, covering 1520km or 944 miles!!! I was so excited!
We packed our van--I was with Rory, Alyssa, and Misha and Colin and Jenn were with Abby. We had to make a couple u-turns to start, but soon the GPS picked up signal and got us heading the right direction. The GPS I had was quite useless and would lead us off-roading so I switched with Abby since I was leading the group.
Driving was the same in NZ as it was in AUS. Left side of the road and right side of the car. This beginning drive was not bad at all---typical highway and pretty straight for now! My co-pilot was Alyssa who did a great job reading the directions and helping me get to where I needed to go. I am getting very used to driving opposite America and it feels rather normal for me now. I really enjoy driving and really like that there are no stop signs and lots and lots of roundabouts. The one thing that scares me every time is the people who pull out when about to turn left (like our right turn at home)---they pull out so far and I always think they are not going to stop and plow right into me, but it just makes me nervous.
Today was a Holiday here---called Anzac Day--its a day of remembrance to honor the Army Corps for WWI. Because of this, everything was closed until 1PM so we had to wait half a day for things to open and to get food.
We got on Highway 1 (the main Interstate) and headed toward Hamiliton. We drove for a couple hours and then stopped at a grocery store (New World) to get some Pb and j supplies, bananas (so much cheaper here than AUS-only 1.99/kg vs. 12.99/kg), and apples. Then we went to the Hamilton Gardens---these were beautiful. There were many cultural distinctions in the gardens---so there were American, Asian, Italian, Greek sections which we walked through--all with fountains, flowers, vines, statues----Even though it was drizzling the entire time, it was beautiful to see! I wished we had more time to walk around because we only saw a few areas, but we had to go Rotorua next.
Alyssa and Jenn drove the next leg of the trip---it was their first time driving so we took it a bit slower, but they each did a great job. It took about about an hour and half or so to get to Rotorua. Rotorua is a well known city for the hot, mud pools and distinct sulfur smell. We went to Kerosene Creek. Ewww this is was quite nasty, but neat to see the bubbling masses of water and mud. The smell was a mix of rotten eggs, acid, and dirty smoke. Not pleasant. We didn't make the public mud pool time because we were about 5 minutes late which was a bummer, but we drove to another spot to take pictures and breathe in enough of the awful air! I also lots of sheep, cows, and horses along the drive which were just gazing out in the fields.
We got back in the car and stopped about 15 min later at a lookout spot---where we saw much of Rotorua's town and a mountain (didn't know the name). We continued on to Taupo which is another popular place in the Northern Island. Taupo is known for their thrills of skydiving, bungee jumping and Lake. We stopped a huge commercial shopping/eating square where we found Hell Pizza for dinner. We could make our own personal pan pizza for NZ$5 so we ecstatic. I had a mushroom and cheese pizza which was delicious---tasted much like pizza huts.
Then it was back in the car and I was up driving again----on to Wellington (Southern tip of the Northern Island). This drive was a little more nerve-racking. There were huge cliffs and windy windy roads----I was even warned to go 25km/h when the typical speed limit was 100 km/h. A few of the turns were sharp and it was primarily long windy roads the entire 2.5 hours I drove. I also drove through 2 cute, small towns. I wish it was light out because I am sure the view was spectacular, but to get to Wellington we had to drive at night. I stopped around 10:15PM in Bulls. I was getting really tired and Alyssa who had been napping took over for the rest of the drive. The roads were not as bad I had been told and expected. There were occasional windy roads (which reduced my speed to 25km/h), but for the most part, the roads were typical highways---reminded me of Seattle with large hills around.
The only issue we had with the two vans was trying to stay together. One car drove much faster than the other one felt comfortable to so the cars kept having huge distances in between. This caused some separation and some tension between the groups. It all worked out because the fast car would just wait at a destination until the other car met up.
I slept about an hour because I was fairly uncomfortable in the second seat. It did recline back, but my back was uncomfortable. It was a nice nap and we were close when I woke up. We ended in Wellington just before midnight.We drove around trying to find parking, and pulled into a gas station where the guy told us we could park there for the night. We used their toilet and then bundled ourselves in our blankets and hoodies, put down the back seats, and got ready for bed. Misha, Rory and I slept long-ways in the back seat and Alyssa slept across the two front seats. I was surprisingly comfortable, got a little chilly during the night so Alyssa put the heat on in the car a few times during the night. I had trouble sleeping in the beginning, then Abby called and they arrived in Wellington about an hour after us and then parked right next to us. I fell asleep for a few hours and then woke up in the middle of the night freezing. I put some sweatpants on and then went back to bed. I woke up to a man tapping on the Alyssa's window, writing us a ticket for parking more then 2 hours. It was a NZ$40 which we went directly to the Parking Services to pay and then stopped at a BP/Mcdonalds which had free wifi!! We all had breakfast, I made the pb and banana sandwiches and then we hung out for a bit. Then it was off to get on the Ferry which would take us from Wellington to Picton.
We got breakfast and then headed to the door to find the Jucy car rental guy who would take us to their office building where we got our two vans. Abby was driving Van 1 and I was driving van 2 for starters. We were about to start a 5 day exploration, covering 1520km or 944 miles!!! I was so excited!
We packed our van--I was with Rory, Alyssa, and Misha and Colin and Jenn were with Abby. We had to make a couple u-turns to start, but soon the GPS picked up signal and got us heading the right direction. The GPS I had was quite useless and would lead us off-roading so I switched with Abby since I was leading the group.
Driving was the same in NZ as it was in AUS. Left side of the road and right side of the car. This beginning drive was not bad at all---typical highway and pretty straight for now! My co-pilot was Alyssa who did a great job reading the directions and helping me get to where I needed to go. I am getting very used to driving opposite America and it feels rather normal for me now. I really enjoy driving and really like that there are no stop signs and lots and lots of roundabouts. The one thing that scares me every time is the people who pull out when about to turn left (like our right turn at home)---they pull out so far and I always think they are not going to stop and plow right into me, but it just makes me nervous.
Today was a Holiday here---called Anzac Day--its a day of remembrance to honor the Army Corps for WWI. Because of this, everything was closed until 1PM so we had to wait half a day for things to open and to get food.
We got on Highway 1 (the main Interstate) and headed toward Hamiliton. We drove for a couple hours and then stopped at a grocery store (New World) to get some Pb and j supplies, bananas (so much cheaper here than AUS-only 1.99/kg vs. 12.99/kg), and apples. Then we went to the Hamilton Gardens---these were beautiful. There were many cultural distinctions in the gardens---so there were American, Asian, Italian, Greek sections which we walked through--all with fountains, flowers, vines, statues----Even though it was drizzling the entire time, it was beautiful to see! I wished we had more time to walk around because we only saw a few areas, but we had to go Rotorua next.
Alyssa and Jenn drove the next leg of the trip---it was their first time driving so we took it a bit slower, but they each did a great job. It took about about an hour and half or so to get to Rotorua. Rotorua is a well known city for the hot, mud pools and distinct sulfur smell. We went to Kerosene Creek. Ewww this is was quite nasty, but neat to see the bubbling masses of water and mud. The smell was a mix of rotten eggs, acid, and dirty smoke. Not pleasant. We didn't make the public mud pool time because we were about 5 minutes late which was a bummer, but we drove to another spot to take pictures and breathe in enough of the awful air! I also lots of sheep, cows, and horses along the drive which were just gazing out in the fields.
We got back in the car and stopped about 15 min later at a lookout spot---where we saw much of Rotorua's town and a mountain (didn't know the name). We continued on to Taupo which is another popular place in the Northern Island. Taupo is known for their thrills of skydiving, bungee jumping and Lake. We stopped a huge commercial shopping/eating square where we found Hell Pizza for dinner. We could make our own personal pan pizza for NZ$5 so we ecstatic. I had a mushroom and cheese pizza which was delicious---tasted much like pizza huts.
Then it was back in the car and I was up driving again----on to Wellington (Southern tip of the Northern Island). This drive was a little more nerve-racking. There were huge cliffs and windy windy roads----I was even warned to go 25km/h when the typical speed limit was 100 km/h. A few of the turns were sharp and it was primarily long windy roads the entire 2.5 hours I drove. I also drove through 2 cute, small towns. I wish it was light out because I am sure the view was spectacular, but to get to Wellington we had to drive at night. I stopped around 10:15PM in Bulls. I was getting really tired and Alyssa who had been napping took over for the rest of the drive. The roads were not as bad I had been told and expected. There were occasional windy roads (which reduced my speed to 25km/h), but for the most part, the roads were typical highways---reminded me of Seattle with large hills around.
The only issue we had with the two vans was trying to stay together. One car drove much faster than the other one felt comfortable to so the cars kept having huge distances in between. This caused some separation and some tension between the groups. It all worked out because the fast car would just wait at a destination until the other car met up.
I slept about an hour because I was fairly uncomfortable in the second seat. It did recline back, but my back was uncomfortable. It was a nice nap and we were close when I woke up. We ended in Wellington just before midnight.We drove around trying to find parking, and pulled into a gas station where the guy told us we could park there for the night. We used their toilet and then bundled ourselves in our blankets and hoodies, put down the back seats, and got ready for bed. Misha, Rory and I slept long-ways in the back seat and Alyssa slept across the two front seats. I was surprisingly comfortable, got a little chilly during the night so Alyssa put the heat on in the car a few times during the night. I had trouble sleeping in the beginning, then Abby called and they arrived in Wellington about an hour after us and then parked right next to us. I fell asleep for a few hours and then woke up in the middle of the night freezing. I put some sweatpants on and then went back to bed. I woke up to a man tapping on the Alyssa's window, writing us a ticket for parking more then 2 hours. It was a NZ$40 which we went directly to the Parking Services to pay and then stopped at a BP/Mcdonalds which had free wifi!! We all had breakfast, I made the pb and banana sandwiches and then we hung out for a bit. Then it was off to get on the Ferry which would take us from Wellington to Picton.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Last day at Lennox Head/New Zealand
I got up at 6AM this morning to do some final stuffing of my suitcase, shower, and load the bus. I was trying to take in the last bit of Australian air I could and all the students and I kept running around hugging each other. We were all going to miss each other and this place---I think it is the hardest to leave Lake Ainsworth because we have spent so much time here and has become our new home. As we all boarded the bus, we said our good byes to Lyn, Yvonne, and the Avilas and were on our way to Brisbane. The drive took about 2 hours, I was exhausted so I slept most of the ride so we were there in no time.
We all had to get trolleys to carry all our suitcases and head up to check-in. Once through security, we sat at our gate, got some lunch, and relaxed a little. Before we knew it, it was time to board. The flight went very smoothly--I watched "The Kids Are All-Right" and some music, had lunch served----grilled eggplant, rice and peas, salad and bean compote, and a granola bar, and some orange mix which was really really spicy---
It got a little bit chilly after arriving in New Zealand. It was very cloudy and overcast in New Zealand. Landing I saw lots of water and huge lands of green---fields and field of bushes, trees, and grass!
In the airport, some of the students and I got storage for our big suitcases for the week so we repacked our little suitcases and stored the others.
I stayed with Alyssa, Jen, Rory, Colin C, Abby that night in the airport where we decided on where we wanted to go and what we wanted to do for the next 6 days as we explored the Northern followed by the Southern Island. Unfortunately I had to finish a school paper, I was exhausted and headed to bed around midnight. I slept on long cushioned benches right next to the McDonald's. Cant wait to explore tomorrow morning!
We all had to get trolleys to carry all our suitcases and head up to check-in. Once through security, we sat at our gate, got some lunch, and relaxed a little. Before we knew it, it was time to board. The flight went very smoothly--I watched "The Kids Are All-Right" and some music, had lunch served----grilled eggplant, rice and peas, salad and bean compote, and a granola bar, and some orange mix which was really really spicy---
It got a little bit chilly after arriving in New Zealand. It was very cloudy and overcast in New Zealand. Landing I saw lots of water and huge lands of green---fields and field of bushes, trees, and grass!
In the airport, some of the students and I got storage for our big suitcases for the week so we repacked our little suitcases and stored the others.
I stayed with Alyssa, Jen, Rory, Colin C, Abby that night in the airport where we decided on where we wanted to go and what we wanted to do for the next 6 days as we explored the Northern followed by the Southern Island. Unfortunately I had to finish a school paper, I was exhausted and headed to bed around midnight. I slept on long cushioned benches right next to the McDonald's. Cant wait to explore tomorrow morning!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Packing/Pancakes/Easter Vigil/Packing
I packed all day!! Today is my last full day in Australia---and its so sad!
I started today with an Insanity Max Plyometric Circuit with Colin---it kicked my butt for sure but was a great workout!
Today was the last meal together and it was a pancake brunch! We had mounds and mounds of pancakes for the students along with chocolate chips, peanut butter, syrup, cinnamon apples---mmm delicious! Once breakfat was over, it was time to pack, pack, pack! I had to move my things around a lot to get them situated and also leave a lot of stuff here as well because I just didn't have room for it!
I went off to Ballina with Yvonne (sweet lady who watches camp and whose house is right at the lake) to get some last minute things like starburst babies to bring home for everyone and then went back to packing and cleaning/organizing the cabin! Abby did most of the cleaning, and I did the inventory list.
I went to Easter Vigil with the Avilas tonight as well as St. Francis'. I don't think I have gone to an Easter Vigil before but it was quite a long mass and I was exhausted so I was prying my eyes open to stay awake. After mass, we dropped by In the Pink for one last scoop of ice cream before home to make sure my suitcase was under the weight limit. I think I got it to be 48.5 lbs---yikes thats close. My carry-ons are packed to the brim too! I hope I can get everything on!
I hung out with the students for the rest of the evening and also rearranging my stuff to make sure everything would fit! Where did I accumulate all this stuff---I was bursting at the seams! But I had so many souvenirs and all my new clothes and shoes---I just hope the airline isn't that picky!
My eye started feeling weird yesterday and continued all today too so I checked it out in the mirror and it appears I busted a blood vessel in my eye---it is just really uncomfortable and hard to keep open! I am not sure what caused it, but I hope it goes away soon.
I can't believe it my last night in Australia---it feels so weird to be saying that and to be walking around for the last time here at Lake Ainsworth Rec Centre.
I really enjoyed this place and have come to know and love the students. I will miss these cabins, kids, and this place! I have had such an amazing time here and will never forget the experiences I have had!
I stayed up as late as I could to spend as much time with the students as possible and then headed to bed around midnight. Casey came into my bed to cuddle one last night----it made me sad to think tomorrow we would be leaving and not returning!
I started today with an Insanity Max Plyometric Circuit with Colin---it kicked my butt for sure but was a great workout!
Today was the last meal together and it was a pancake brunch! We had mounds and mounds of pancakes for the students along with chocolate chips, peanut butter, syrup, cinnamon apples---mmm delicious! Once breakfat was over, it was time to pack, pack, pack! I had to move my things around a lot to get them situated and also leave a lot of stuff here as well because I just didn't have room for it!
I went off to Ballina with Yvonne (sweet lady who watches camp and whose house is right at the lake) to get some last minute things like starburst babies to bring home for everyone and then went back to packing and cleaning/organizing the cabin! Abby did most of the cleaning, and I did the inventory list.
I went to Easter Vigil with the Avilas tonight as well as St. Francis'. I don't think I have gone to an Easter Vigil before but it was quite a long mass and I was exhausted so I was prying my eyes open to stay awake. After mass, we dropped by In the Pink for one last scoop of ice cream before home to make sure my suitcase was under the weight limit. I think I got it to be 48.5 lbs---yikes thats close. My carry-ons are packed to the brim too! I hope I can get everything on!
I hung out with the students for the rest of the evening and also rearranging my stuff to make sure everything would fit! Where did I accumulate all this stuff---I was bursting at the seams! But I had so many souvenirs and all my new clothes and shoes---I just hope the airline isn't that picky!
My eye started feeling weird yesterday and continued all today too so I checked it out in the mirror and it appears I busted a blood vessel in my eye---it is just really uncomfortable and hard to keep open! I am not sure what caused it, but I hope it goes away soon.
I can't believe it my last night in Australia---it feels so weird to be saying that and to be walking around for the last time here at Lake Ainsworth Rec Centre.
I really enjoyed this place and have come to know and love the students. I will miss these cabins, kids, and this place! I have had such an amazing time here and will never forget the experiences I have had!
I stayed up as late as I could to spend as much time with the students as possible and then headed to bed around midnight. Casey came into my bed to cuddle one last night----it made me sad to think tomorrow we would be leaving and not returning!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Insanity/Layout/Sailing and Archery/Birthday parties
Started this morning with a dual insanity workout with Colin---we did a plyometric circuit followed by upper body strength training. This is the first time I have done a strength training exercise from Insanity---it was not as hard as I thought it would be, but a great workout.
It was a beautiful day today so after breakfast, I went to lay out outside and get some sun! It was just gorgeous! I had to work on my tan before I leave here.
Today at 1, we went sailing and then did some archery. A guy named Josiah (Juice) taught us how to sail on Lake Ainsworth--we played around on them--splashing each other, taking turns puling the sail out and in. Archery was a lot of fun too. After learning how to shoot the bow and arrow, I shot at a couple of the targets--missed the first few times, but got better the more I shot. We even blew up balloons on the targets and shot at them----I made one bullseye---probably 10 shots in but still it was pretty cool!
Later this evening we celebrated AJ and Jake and Kate's bdays----we all got together in Cabin 5 for a lil bday party, cake, ice cream!
We finished the evening with a bonfire and reminiscing about the time we spent here, embarrassing moments, and all the adventures we shared!
This has been such an incredible journey, I can't believe its time to leave!
It was a beautiful day today so after breakfast, I went to lay out outside and get some sun! It was just gorgeous! I had to work on my tan before I leave here.
Today at 1, we went sailing and then did some archery. A guy named Josiah (Juice) taught us how to sail on Lake Ainsworth--we played around on them--splashing each other, taking turns puling the sail out and in. Archery was a lot of fun too. After learning how to shoot the bow and arrow, I shot at a couple of the targets--missed the first few times, but got better the more I shot. We even blew up balloons on the targets and shot at them----I made one bullseye---probably 10 shots in but still it was pretty cool!
Later this evening we celebrated AJ and Jake and Kate's bdays----we all got together in Cabin 5 for a lil bday party, cake, ice cream!
We finished the evening with a bonfire and reminiscing about the time we spent here, embarrassing moments, and all the adventures we shared!
This has been such an incredible journey, I can't believe its time to leave!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Run/End of Semester Party
This morning I did about a 4K run with Colin and one of the Avila's daughters friends Andrea. We ran to the first roundabout and back. So far it is a beautiful day and hopefully stays like this for the party today and tonight. Great start to the day--sun shining, lots of people in town and in the caravan park on Holiday, walking around, surfing---typical Australian morning! I headed out to the beach to lay in the sand before the party started!
The festivities started at 2 with volleyball games. Dr. Avila, Kate (his daughter), Abby, and I were all on a team---during the first match Dr. Avila tore he Achilles and hobbled out of the game. His other daughter Ann who was visiting stepped in as his sub, unfortunately, we still lost...boo! More games continued and soon it was time to head down to the Education Building and BBQ area for our party.
The party started off with some students awards, had some dinner (kangaroo, steak, chicken, sausage, lots of salads, tim-tams, lamingtons, anzac cookies, watermelon---way too much food), had more awards, gave some professor awards, Dr. Avila/Terry/I presented very humourous awards to each student---had them all laughing and crying because they were laughing so hard!! We closed with an awesome slide-show by Misha which was a great way to remember all the places we have gone, all the things we did, friends we made, and times we had!
Later that evening, just the students and I went back to the Education building and watched the uncorked version which was very entertaining---mostly drunken nights on this slide-show. Then it was off to the pub for some evening drinks and fun. We just hung out for the night!
We all talked about how close we all have become (everyone considers each other family and we can't imagine this trip without any one of us), we all connected so well and have become such great friends!
The festivities started at 2 with volleyball games. Dr. Avila, Kate (his daughter), Abby, and I were all on a team---during the first match Dr. Avila tore he Achilles and hobbled out of the game. His other daughter Ann who was visiting stepped in as his sub, unfortunately, we still lost...boo! More games continued and soon it was time to head down to the Education Building and BBQ area for our party.
The party started off with some students awards, had some dinner (kangaroo, steak, chicken, sausage, lots of salads, tim-tams, lamingtons, anzac cookies, watermelon---way too much food), had more awards, gave some professor awards, Dr. Avila/Terry/I presented very humourous awards to each student---had them all laughing and crying because they were laughing so hard!! We closed with an awesome slide-show by Misha which was a great way to remember all the places we have gone, all the things we did, friends we made, and times we had!
Later that evening, just the students and I went back to the Education building and watched the uncorked version which was very entertaining---mostly drunken nights on this slide-show. Then it was off to the pub for some evening drinks and fun. We just hung out for the night!
We all talked about how close we all have become (everyone considers each other family and we can't imagine this trip without any one of us), we all connected so well and have become such great friends!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Class lecture/beach pic/mall/tennis
This morning I had my lecture bright and early. By the time it was over---the sun was shining! Yeah!!! Finally the sun has returned! I didn't know if I would see it to be honest again after the last few rainy and cloudy days!
But it was gorgeous! This morning we would be taking some pictures out by the point and the ocean so all the students met at 8AM (not very awake or happy to be up that early) and got the pictures completed! The students just moaned the whole time and looked like walking dead----the minute the pictures were done, they either rushed back to bed or went off to a final.
It was such a beautiful day though----sun was shining. Everyone grabbed their swimmers and laid out/played volleyball. You could tell we had not seen the sun in awhile because everyone ran out in their swimmers and towels were sprawled everywhere.
At 1:00PM, we were having our last grocery/mall day, taking by the big bus at the Recreation Center. So a bunch of students and I headed to do some last minute shopping before we head off this weekend. When we returned, we continued to lay out for a bit and then I went off to play some tennis (tennis courts just down from the cabin) with Jen, Jason, and Casey. I am not good by any means, but they all helped me serve and play better. I think I missed three balls---which was really embarrassing---she swings, she misses---haha I was laughing at myself. But luckily I had Jason on my team and he is great so it made up for my awfulness. We played two games and then it got pretty dark and the courts looked as if they were crawling. There were huge beetles and bugs everywhere so we finished and headed back to the cabins. I had some dinner and continued working on some last minute things for the big end-of-the-semester party tomorrow.
I met with the Avila late in the evening to put some humorous "gift" ideas for the students together and then it was bedtime for me. I can't believe the days are dwindling so quickly, I am starting to get really sad!
But it was gorgeous! This morning we would be taking some pictures out by the point and the ocean so all the students met at 8AM (not very awake or happy to be up that early) and got the pictures completed! The students just moaned the whole time and looked like walking dead----the minute the pictures were done, they either rushed back to bed or went off to a final.
It was such a beautiful day though----sun was shining. Everyone grabbed their swimmers and laid out/played volleyball. You could tell we had not seen the sun in awhile because everyone ran out in their swimmers and towels were sprawled everywhere.
At 1:00PM, we were having our last grocery/mall day, taking by the big bus at the Recreation Center. So a bunch of students and I headed to do some last minute shopping before we head off this weekend. When we returned, we continued to lay out for a bit and then I went off to play some tennis (tennis courts just down from the cabin) with Jen, Jason, and Casey. I am not good by any means, but they all helped me serve and play better. I think I missed three balls---which was really embarrassing---she swings, she misses---haha I was laughing at myself. But luckily I had Jason on my team and he is great so it made up for my awfulness. We played two games and then it got pretty dark and the courts looked as if they were crawling. There were huge beetles and bugs everywhere so we finished and headed back to the cabins. I had some dinner and continued working on some last minute things for the big end-of-the-semester party tomorrow.
I met with the Avila late in the evening to put some humorous "gift" ideas for the students together and then it was bedtime for me. I can't believe the days are dwindling so quickly, I am starting to get really sad!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Insanity/grocery/homework
This morning Colin and I did Pure Cardio---I am really going to miss just being able to throw workout clothes on and walk over to the gym. I will also miss having Colin around to do hard workouts with!
After the workout, I went back and finished off the french toast, off course with some peanut butter and then got down to finishing my paper.
I skyped Lindsey today too----I can't wait for her big wedding day in June!! We had a very good conversation though---I miss her so much! I am looking forward to her bachelorette party!!
I made a run to the mall and grocery store with the Avilas to get some last minute items for the end of semester party, brunch, and some thank you gifts for those that have helped us over the last few months. This trip was quick and finished up my paper when I got back to the cabin. What a sigh of relief to have that done.
Unfortunately today was another rainy day but it looked like it was beginning to clear by the end of the day---hopefully the next two days will be nice!!
A meeting was held in my cabin for the end of the semester party tonight and then I went to bed---I was so tired, I couldn't even see anymore--definitely time for bed! Casey (freshmen student) came into my room and rubbed my back and like a baby I went right to sleep!
After the workout, I went back and finished off the french toast, off course with some peanut butter and then got down to finishing my paper.
I skyped Lindsey today too----I can't wait for her big wedding day in June!! We had a very good conversation though---I miss her so much! I am looking forward to her bachelorette party!!
I made a run to the mall and grocery store with the Avilas to get some last minute items for the end of semester party, brunch, and some thank you gifts for those that have helped us over the last few months. This trip was quick and finished up my paper when I got back to the cabin. What a sigh of relief to have that done.
Unfortunately today was another rainy day but it looked like it was beginning to clear by the end of the day---hopefully the next two days will be nice!!
A meeting was held in my cabin for the end of the semester party tonight and then I went to bed---I was so tired, I couldn't even see anymore--definitely time for bed! Casey (freshmen student) came into my room and rubbed my back and like a baby I went right to sleep!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Insanity/byron bay
This morning I did a Max Sport Interval workout---had basketball, track, gymnastic, and football training. Again I have never sweat this much in the US ever---I am just constantly dripping--I know thats gross to share but I can't believe how much I sweat here. We used the new gym which was just recently opened---big basketball court and workout facility inside--As we were working out, I noticed some windows in the court were open and i saw a huge green monster! It was big and green and hairy and it had wings like a gigantic bird!!! i was terrified.....but I was strong and conquered my fear of birds and stabbed the hairy green bird monster in the heart with the sword i had in my back pocket. whew... glad i made it through that one....talk about a good workout! (I walked away from my computer for 2 minutes and I get this crazy story from my dear friend Cami----hahahaha)
Anyways the real story is that as we were working out, two Magpies flew into the basketball court. Luckily I was in the gym part with doors closed because I started to get really nervous. There were two that flew in and they were walking and flying around, making me really apprehensive. I was very grateful for Colin because he scared them away from the door and also opened the door after they starting squawking to let them out. I was very relieved when they flew out.
When I got back to my cabin, I showered and made some left-over french toast with peanut butter and bananas----mmmmmm delicious!!! I also skyped Marinna and Amy!
Then I went off to Byron Bay, the small shopping town about 20 minutes away, to get some more souvenirs and make a grocery run for more family dinners which are planned for this last week here. Byron was jam packed with people---this week and next week are the local schools holiday-schools here are all year round but they have holidays throughout the year for two weeks at a time breaking up the year. So these two weeks randomly are one of those holiday weekends--along with Good Friday which is their Easter here.
After a couple hours shopping in Byron, I returned to the cabins and went back to my paper.
The weather today was on and off rain, but stayed remotely humid. The entire day was dark and dreary which made me want to nap all day, but there so much to do in so little time---only 6 days left!
I got a great lift in later in the evening, had a delicious sweet potato and corn on the cob for dinner, wrote more of my paper and then headed off to bed. What a busy Monday---my last Monday in AUS :(
Anyways the real story is that as we were working out, two Magpies flew into the basketball court. Luckily I was in the gym part with doors closed because I started to get really nervous. There were two that flew in and they were walking and flying around, making me really apprehensive. I was very grateful for Colin because he scared them away from the door and also opened the door after they starting squawking to let them out. I was very relieved when they flew out.
When I got back to my cabin, I showered and made some left-over french toast with peanut butter and bananas----mmmmmm delicious!!! I also skyped Marinna and Amy!
Then I went off to Byron Bay, the small shopping town about 20 minutes away, to get some more souvenirs and make a grocery run for more family dinners which are planned for this last week here. Byron was jam packed with people---this week and next week are the local schools holiday-schools here are all year round but they have holidays throughout the year for two weeks at a time breaking up the year. So these two weeks randomly are one of those holiday weekends--along with Good Friday which is their Easter here.
After a couple hours shopping in Byron, I returned to the cabins and went back to my paper.
The weather today was on and off rain, but stayed remotely humid. The entire day was dark and dreary which made me want to nap all day, but there so much to do in so little time---only 6 days left!
I got a great lift in later in the evening, had a delicious sweet potato and corn on the cob for dinner, wrote more of my paper and then headed off to bed. What a busy Monday---my last Monday in AUS :(
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Sunrise/rainy/paper/family dinner
Jason, Jen, Cami, Casey, and I decided to go to the Point this morning for a sunrise. It was sprinkling already but nothing terrible. Since there were only 5 of us, I decided to take van last minute, hoping the professor didn't need it early this morning! We left at 4:40AM and then rested in the van in the car park for about 45 min. We left the van at 5:30 and started hiking up the side of the Point. It was already getting fairly light out, however, there were so many clouds we didn't know what we were going to see this morning. We took lots of fun pictures and must have just missed the rain because we saw raincloud spots pouring in the ocean. There was a little pink purple to the sunrise but remained fairly cloudy the entire sunrise. We enjoyed the morning together and then retreated back to the van and back at the cabins.
I went to Cami's cabin for a little to chat since we were both awake and then started working on my paper again. I only got so far before I felt myself getting really tired. I took a 2 hour nap---I do not really like naps and they make me feel even more drowsy...boo. I knew I had to get up and continuing working more on my paper though. I felt very productive today and the rain helped a lot. It just poured on and off today---the loudest rain I have ever heard. I stopped a couple times during my work because of the immense sound the rain made.
I took a small break and did a spinning class with Colin--listening to a new artist, Childish Gambino the entire ride---he is a great new rapper, a little sexual for my liking but has some great one liners in his music. After a great workout, it was time to help make family dinner--french toast, cinnamon apples, sausage, and hash-browns. It took awhile to make 5 loaves of bread for the group but it was delicious!!! Everyone was very satisified, had a quick touching base meeting, and then it was back to my cabin for clean-up and more homework!
I cannot believe there is only 7 days left....squeezing every minute I have left!
I went to Cami's cabin for a little to chat since we were both awake and then started working on my paper again. I only got so far before I felt myself getting really tired. I took a 2 hour nap---I do not really like naps and they make me feel even more drowsy...boo. I knew I had to get up and continuing working more on my paper though. I felt very productive today and the rain helped a lot. It just poured on and off today---the loudest rain I have ever heard. I stopped a couple times during my work because of the immense sound the rain made.
I took a small break and did a spinning class with Colin--listening to a new artist, Childish Gambino the entire ride---he is a great new rapper, a little sexual for my liking but has some great one liners in his music. After a great workout, it was time to help make family dinner--french toast, cinnamon apples, sausage, and hash-browns. It took awhile to make 5 loaves of bread for the group but it was delicious!!! Everyone was very satisified, had a quick touching base meeting, and then it was back to my cabin for clean-up and more homework!
I cannot believe there is only 7 days left....squeezing every minute I have left!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Circuit workout/rainy
I guess there was a storm last night however, I was so exhausted, I must have slept through it. When I got up at 8, I went to do a long circuit with Colin. We did 2 min of cardio and 1 min of strength (16 sets). It was a killer workout---great way to get this rainy day started! We finished in the sauna which felt awesome!
The day was entirely cloudy---opposite to what it was yesterday---no blue sky today but that's okay because I have so much work to do.
It was very overcast the entire day. I ended up running to the mall with the Avilas and few other students to get some groceries for the family dinners and ended up getting some clearance souvenirs to being home at Target and Cotton On (An Australian branded clothing store). I even got an awesome deal at Woolworth, the grocery store. There was a service cart full of veggies and fruit and the deal was I could fill a bag for only $3 with whatever I wanted!!! I jam-packed that bag and got a ton of fruit and veggies! What a deal!
After getting back to my cabin, I worked on my paper the rest of the evening and then went to watch some of The Office with Casey and Colin. I fell asleep in Caseys bed on her legs and woke up when it was all over! I guess that means its bedtime for Danielle! I slid back home and went right back to sleep!
The day was entirely cloudy---opposite to what it was yesterday---no blue sky today but that's okay because I have so much work to do.
It was very overcast the entire day. I ended up running to the mall with the Avilas and few other students to get some groceries for the family dinners and ended up getting some clearance souvenirs to being home at Target and Cotton On (An Australian branded clothing store). I even got an awesome deal at Woolworth, the grocery store. There was a service cart full of veggies and fruit and the deal was I could fill a bag for only $3 with whatever I wanted!!! I jam-packed that bag and got a ton of fruit and veggies! What a deal!
After getting back to my cabin, I worked on my paper the rest of the evening and then went to watch some of The Office with Casey and Colin. I fell asleep in Caseys bed on her legs and woke up when it was all over! I guess that means its bedtime for Danielle! I slid back home and went right back to sleep!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Slept in/lay out/vball/kayak/made earnings/ran at Shaws Bay/pub
I was letting myself sleep in this morning---my knee has been giving me trouble and I needed some extra sleep. Unfortunately my body woke me up at 7:30, so much for sleeping in! But it was just gorgeous today---not a cloud in the sky and already 80 degrees at 8AM! I got a few homework things done before heading to catch some sun. By the time I got outside, there were about 6 students already there! Pretty soon after I laid down, another 5 or so joined, it was a great lay-out day!
We got a great 6-on-6 volleyball game going--great volleys and plays! At 1:00, a group of students went down and we kayaked on Lake Ainsworth--I hadn't gone in awhile and the lake felt great with it being so hot! I kayaked out in the middle and then attached to the other kayaks and just drifted along! The lake was so calm and relaxing---I stayed out for over 2 hours---got a lil red on my back but nothing too bad---luckily I put suntan lotion on prior to going out there! I talked with Casey and Kate for awhile and then Kate went in. Casey (freshmen on the trip) and I stayed out for awhile longer just talking about relationships---I enjoyed having her company! We decided to head in and I stopped off to talk with Ivonne (little old lady who lives by the lake and takes care of the BSU students every semester looking after the cabins when we are gone and giving us recommendations). Ivonne helped me make some earnings from the beads she had out---i really enjoyed all her beautiful beads, shells, and accessories and made a beautiful silver and pearl pair to take back home!
I headed back to the cabins, did some jumpy beach pictures with Cami at the ocean and then got ready to go to the Triathalon practice (swim and run) with the Triathalon club here. Unfortunately I went over to Shaws Bay and I guess they were not practicing anymore because no one was there! So I just ran by myself down along the pier.
When I got home, Kate brought me some manicotti over which Terry (Professors wife) had made and it was delicious!! It is so nice being the GA and having dinners and desserts made for me and Terry is a great cook--everything is delicious! Tonight I promised Kate I would watch "Life As We Know It" with her and a few other students were interested so we headed to the Education Building and had a little movie night--with some baked cinnamon apple oatmeal, no bake cookies, and popcorn! The movie put the audience on an emotional roller coaster. Very cute, sad, happy, loving, and sarcastic emotions. I enjoyed way too many desserts, but enjoyed getting to relax!
A few students and I headed down to the pub but I stayed only about an hour---too much Reggae music for me and I was quite tired! What a beautiful and fun filled day, these are the days why I don't want to leave Australia.
We got a great 6-on-6 volleyball game going--great volleys and plays! At 1:00, a group of students went down and we kayaked on Lake Ainsworth--I hadn't gone in awhile and the lake felt great with it being so hot! I kayaked out in the middle and then attached to the other kayaks and just drifted along! The lake was so calm and relaxing---I stayed out for over 2 hours---got a lil red on my back but nothing too bad---luckily I put suntan lotion on prior to going out there! I talked with Casey and Kate for awhile and then Kate went in. Casey (freshmen on the trip) and I stayed out for awhile longer just talking about relationships---I enjoyed having her company! We decided to head in and I stopped off to talk with Ivonne (little old lady who lives by the lake and takes care of the BSU students every semester looking after the cabins when we are gone and giving us recommendations). Ivonne helped me make some earnings from the beads she had out---i really enjoyed all her beautiful beads, shells, and accessories and made a beautiful silver and pearl pair to take back home!
I headed back to the cabins, did some jumpy beach pictures with Cami at the ocean and then got ready to go to the Triathalon practice (swim and run) with the Triathalon club here. Unfortunately I went over to Shaws Bay and I guess they were not practicing anymore because no one was there! So I just ran by myself down along the pier.
When I got home, Kate brought me some manicotti over which Terry (Professors wife) had made and it was delicious!! It is so nice being the GA and having dinners and desserts made for me and Terry is a great cook--everything is delicious! Tonight I promised Kate I would watch "Life As We Know It" with her and a few other students were interested so we headed to the Education Building and had a little movie night--with some baked cinnamon apple oatmeal, no bake cookies, and popcorn! The movie put the audience on an emotional roller coaster. Very cute, sad, happy, loving, and sarcastic emotions. I enjoyed way too many desserts, but enjoyed getting to relax!
A few students and I headed down to the pub but I stayed only about an hour---too much Reggae music for me and I was quite tired! What a beautiful and fun filled day, these are the days why I don't want to leave Australia.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Insanity/grocery/layout/vball
This morning I wasn't feeling that great but Colin and I went and did a power and resistance Insanity work-out anyway. After the work-out, my left knee was killing me and felt like it would hyper-extend again----time to take it easy today.
Today is grocery day so we made one of our last trips to Aldis and Woolworth. Everyone got their final supply of food for the last week :(
Today is a beautiful day----sunny all day so after putting the groceries away, I headed out to catch some rays! It was very warm in the sun, but there was a nice chilly breeze to keep cool! I played numerous volleyball games today as well. Match after match, there was always someone willing to pass around the ball! I am really going to miss all these students, this beautiful weather and atmosphere. I just kept looking around today at all the friends I have made, the environment I have lived in, and how much I will miss everyone and everything! This has been an amazing adventure and a life changing experience!
Enjoying days like this is so simple and gratifying. Lounging around in the sun, playing volleyball, and laying out---can't pass that up!
A group of us went to the gym to get a strength session in and a little Ab Ripper, followed by dinner (cooked by Abby)---mmmm chicken pattie, penne pasta and marinara, and peas! What a great day----
Ending the day with a short meeting about the t-shirts and then to do more work----I do not get as much done day to day it seems because there's always something new to do the next day. It is never ending, however, when the weather is gorgeous it makes it even harder to stay on track.
I book a Glacier Hike in the Southern Island of New Zealand--I am super excited! I also put the order in for the t-shirts and again did not get anywhere on my paper---time is running out, I need to sit down and write it---really praying for rain to help me out in the next few days!
Today is grocery day so we made one of our last trips to Aldis and Woolworth. Everyone got their final supply of food for the last week :(
Today is a beautiful day----sunny all day so after putting the groceries away, I headed out to catch some rays! It was very warm in the sun, but there was a nice chilly breeze to keep cool! I played numerous volleyball games today as well. Match after match, there was always someone willing to pass around the ball! I am really going to miss all these students, this beautiful weather and atmosphere. I just kept looking around today at all the friends I have made, the environment I have lived in, and how much I will miss everyone and everything! This has been an amazing adventure and a life changing experience!
Enjoying days like this is so simple and gratifying. Lounging around in the sun, playing volleyball, and laying out---can't pass that up!
A group of us went to the gym to get a strength session in and a little Ab Ripper, followed by dinner (cooked by Abby)---mmmm chicken pattie, penne pasta and marinara, and peas! What a great day----
Ending the day with a short meeting about the t-shirts and then to do more work----I do not get as much done day to day it seems because there's always something new to do the next day. It is never ending, however, when the weather is gorgeous it makes it even harder to stay on track.
I book a Glacier Hike in the Southern Island of New Zealand--I am super excited! I also put the order in for the t-shirts and again did not get anywhere on my paper---time is running out, I need to sit down and write it---really praying for rain to help me out in the next few days!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Class lecture/layout/tattoo/swim
This morning at 6 I had to watch my live lecture from Muncie. Because of the time change here and in the States, the class had been bumped up to 6 in the morning----I am barely awake, huddled in a sweatshirt, and a blanket watching my lecture. I had some oatmeal and peanut butter this morning and it was excellent---the mornings and evening are getting a bit cooler now that the seasons are changing---heading from Fall to winter---so it was a tid bit nippy and oatmeal warmed me up. When I stepped outside after class, it was warm and sunny and only 8:45AM! Yeah---a full sunny day ahead!!! I grabbed my suit, said bye to the students who were heading on a Wildlife field trip, and went to lay out.
Abby was getting a Southern Cross tattoo today on the inside of her ankle and wanted my moral support so I went with her to Lennox Head to "Rock of Ages Tattoo" and waited for her to get it done. It only took 40 minutes, but I wasn't allowed to sit with her during the process unfortunately. We then came back to the cabin and laid a little bit more---it was just gorgeous!
I told myself I would swim the length of Lake Ainsworth (I am guessing its about 300M) and I did today. The TeeTree lake is a medicinal lake made by TeeTrees---its makes the water a dark brown, murky color. I was a bit nervous to be honest---I went by myself and there were a couple kayaks out, a few other swimmers, and a few ducks in the water. I put my goggles on, not that I could see anything 2 inches in front of my face anyway because it was so dark under the water, and got in. The water was a bit chilly, but once I got going I was alright. There were a lot of warm followed warm current patterns the entire time across, but I was on a mission---swim until I got to the other end. I started at the far end, opposite to the education building and swam across in about 12-15 minutes I am guessing. I had to get my breathing back because I started to freak myself out a little about fish and other marine life, but I just kept my feet kicking and my arms moving.
I got a little sidetracked a few times and was not swimming in a perfect line, so I had to adjust a couple times along the way. Over-all I think I did an okay job for the first time in a lake and want to do it once more before I leave.
After the lake I headed to the pool for some drill practice---working on kicking, longer strokes, and speed! After about a half hour, it was time to head back to the cabin, shower, and because Abby made dinner last night, I chose to make pancakes for the two of us tonight! Mmmmmm pancakes and peanut butter--I think the two of us have gone through 5 large containers of peanut butter since we have been here! Yikes!! It made for a great dinner though.
The field trip got home around 7:00PM and I welcomed them home by my cabin. For the rest of the evening I did homework--lots to get done!
Abby was getting a Southern Cross tattoo today on the inside of her ankle and wanted my moral support so I went with her to Lennox Head to "Rock of Ages Tattoo" and waited for her to get it done. It only took 40 minutes, but I wasn't allowed to sit with her during the process unfortunately. We then came back to the cabin and laid a little bit more---it was just gorgeous!
I told myself I would swim the length of Lake Ainsworth (I am guessing its about 300M) and I did today. The TeeTree lake is a medicinal lake made by TeeTrees---its makes the water a dark brown, murky color. I was a bit nervous to be honest---I went by myself and there were a couple kayaks out, a few other swimmers, and a few ducks in the water. I put my goggles on, not that I could see anything 2 inches in front of my face anyway because it was so dark under the water, and got in. The water was a bit chilly, but once I got going I was alright. There were a lot of warm followed warm current patterns the entire time across, but I was on a mission---swim until I got to the other end. I started at the far end, opposite to the education building and swam across in about 12-15 minutes I am guessing. I had to get my breathing back because I started to freak myself out a little about fish and other marine life, but I just kept my feet kicking and my arms moving.
I got a little sidetracked a few times and was not swimming in a perfect line, so I had to adjust a couple times along the way. Over-all I think I did an okay job for the first time in a lake and want to do it once more before I leave.
After the lake I headed to the pool for some drill practice---working on kicking, longer strokes, and speed! After about a half hour, it was time to head back to the cabin, shower, and because Abby made dinner last night, I chose to make pancakes for the two of us tonight! Mmmmmm pancakes and peanut butter--I think the two of us have gone through 5 large containers of peanut butter since we have been here! Yikes!! It made for a great dinner though.
The field trip got home around 7:00PM and I welcomed them home by my cabin. For the rest of the evening I did homework--lots to get done!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Bike ride/t-shirt shopping
This morning I took a bike down the beach and up to the more private beaches with Colin C. The tide was low luckily. We cruised down the beach and then uphill for the rest of the ride, finding many smaller, more private beach and coming across a pasture of cows! This path was mostly gravel and cement and entirely uphill. I stood up for most of the ride. This time we past Whites Beach (entrance was a downhill path-where I explored last time I went down there) and kept heading uphill. We past another beach entrance but nothing else really. We continued on for another 5 minutes or so and then turned around. Now the way down was way easier---all downhill! This way was far less difficult. The difficult part was now biking back on the beach, the wind was at our front making the trek home a bit more challenging.
The afternoon clouds broke up and it turned sunny---time to catch some rays!
I also decided to design a t-shirt for the students before they leave so I put some ideas together and got a few of the students opinions. I am hoping they get done before we all leave, which is only a week and a half away---it is going way too fast!
Volleyball games were played all today---unfortunately my team took a loss....better luck next game!
Tonight I booked the start of my New Zealand trip---got a free van rental from Jucy (This company looks for people to drive their cars and vans from Auckland to Queenstown) and this is where the group I am traveling with wanted to go so it works out nicely. I also booked a plane ticket---now we are just looking up adventurous glacier hikes, mountain hikes, hot spring pools, skydives, and bungee jumps. Lots to plan and little time to do so!! Very excited to explore yet another country, but sad to be leaving this one!
Today I also got to talk to my family whom I miss so much! I can't wait to see everyone back at home in three short weeks!
The rest of the night I got some work done, finished the t-shirt design, and then it was time for bed!
The afternoon clouds broke up and it turned sunny---time to catch some rays!
I also decided to design a t-shirt for the students before they leave so I put some ideas together and got a few of the students opinions. I am hoping they get done before we all leave, which is only a week and a half away---it is going way too fast!
Volleyball games were played all today---unfortunately my team took a loss....better luck next game!
Tonight I booked the start of my New Zealand trip---got a free van rental from Jucy (This company looks for people to drive their cars and vans from Auckland to Queenstown) and this is where the group I am traveling with wanted to go so it works out nicely. I also booked a plane ticket---now we are just looking up adventurous glacier hikes, mountain hikes, hot spring pools, skydives, and bungee jumps. Lots to plan and little time to do so!! Very excited to explore yet another country, but sad to be leaving this one!
Today I also got to talk to my family whom I miss so much! I can't wait to see everyone back at home in three short weeks!
The rest of the night I got some work done, finished the t-shirt design, and then it was time for bed!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Difference between the US and AUS
While doing my research, I came across some interesting differences between the two countries I thought I'd share:
Power: 110 volt. Power points have 2 vertical slots on top of a round slot (earth), as opposed to our 2 slanted slots on top of a vertical slot (earth). The power points do not necessarily have on-off switches like the Australian equivalents.
Measurements
Power: 110 volt. Power points have 2 vertical slots on top of a round slot (earth), as opposed to our 2 slanted slots on top of a vertical slot (earth). The power points do not necessarily have on-off switches like the Australian equivalents.
Measurements
- Length: Miles (1.6 km), Feet (30 cm), Inches (2.54 cm).
- Temperature: Fahrenheit ((9/5 * Celcius) + 32)
- Fluid Volume: Gallon (3.78 litres and 0.8326 of a British Imperial gallon), Wet Pint (0.473 litres and 0.832 of a British Imperial pint). Also different is the concept of a wet and a dry pint, as opposed to the single imperial pint. A dry pint is 0.550 litres (still shy of the imperial pint's 0.568 litres). Also note that American's spell "litre" as "liter".
- Weight: Pound (0.45 kg), Ounce (28.3 grams
| Category | System | Quick Conversion | Example |
| Women's clothing | US vs UK. | Add 2 to the US size to get the UK equivalent. | 10 (US) is 12 (UK). |
| Women's shoes | US vs UK | Minus 1.5 from US size to get UK equivalent. | 8 (US) is 6.5 (UK). |
| Men's shirts | US vs European | Inches to centimetres (ie multiply US by 2.54) | 17 (US) is 43 (EUR). |
| Men's shoes | US vs UK | Minus 1 from US size to get UK equivalent. . | 12 (US) is 11 (UK) |
- Drive on the other side of road (ie the right-hand side). This means that controls like wipers and headlights are on the opposite side of the steering column to what we're used to. When driving in the US for the first time (or is that for the first 100 times) expect to see your wipers go on whenever you want to change lanes :-)
- As a pedestrian you will also need to walk on the opposite side of the footpath [sidewalk]. That is, keep to the right and let people pass you on your left.
- Crossing the road means looking to the left FIRST. This is very important to remember.
- Dates are written Month/Day/Year (as opposed to Day/Month/Year)
- Telephones have letters on the dialpad. There are 3 letters per digit starting with "ABC" on the "2" and finishing with "WXY" on the "9". Companies generally have toll free numbers that spell words such as 1800 DIALME (I don't think this is a real number). When quoting a phone number you may be pulled up if you say the letter "O" when you mean the number "0". Also worthy of note is the number to dial in case of emergency is 911 (not 000).
- The format of VHS videos in the USA is NTSC [its PAL in Australia]. This means that unless you have a dual standard VCR you won't be able to exchange videos between the two countries.
- Currency:
- Notes [bills] are all the same colour and shape. They can only be distinguished by looking at the number or the president.
- The 5c coin (Nickel) is bigger than the 10c coin (Dime). As one reader pointed out this is similar to our $1 coin being bigger than our $2 coin.
- Although 50c and $1 coins exist they are not widely used. The coin of highest denomination that is actually used is the 25c (Quarter).
- Similarly it is rare to see any note higher than a $20
Additional random differences:
Doors to buildings (offices, restaurants etc) open outwards. This is for safety reasons.
Light switches are upside down compared to ours (ie down is off and up is on). The electrical outlets also all have switches to turn or off to save energy.
The fridge also beeps loudly when opened for a certain period of time and doesn't stop until the door is completely shut!
Numbering scheme for floors to buildings always start from 1 (whereas Australia has many buildings that use the English system of Ground and Basement floors below the 1st floor).
Although its obvious that the education system differs between the 2 countries--
Americans continue their general education for an extra four years. Consequently they are about 2-6 years behind the rest of the world in the time it takes to get a professional qualification. Their Year 12 is about equivalent to an Australian Year 10. The American Bachelor Degree is a 4 year general degree where the "major" accounts for only one quarter of the work and is equivalent, in many cases, to the work which Australians do in Years 11 and 12.
Just thought I'd share---now back to researching! - Notes [bills] are all the same colour and shape. They can only be distinguished by looking at the number or the president.
Beach circuit/Lyn's last class/vball
I woke up today and it was just gorgeous and sunny out. I went with Colin C for an beach circuit. There were so many people on the beach--everyone else thought it was beautiful too! I found some random large logs along the run to use in the circuit which made it more fun!
By the time I got back it was time to shower and head to Lyn's last lecture! There was one student presentations about the sports in Australia---rugby (15 players on a team, two different categories--Rugby League and Rugby Union, a team game played with an oval ball that may be kicked, carried, and passed from hand to hand, points are scored by grounding the ball behind the opponents' goal line (thereby scoring a try) or by kicking it between the two posts and over the crossbar of the opponents' goal.)), surfing (very competitive sport, competed all over AUS, NZ, and US), and cricket (bat and ball sport, One team bats, trying to score as many runs as possible while the other team bowls and fields, trying to dismiss the batsmen and thus limit the runs scored by the batting team. A run is scored by the striking batsman hitting the ball with his bat, running to the opposite end of the pitch and touching the crease there without being dismissed. The teams switch between batting and fielding at the end of an innings, games can last a short period of a day or long for 3-5 days at a time). Class finished up with Lyn discussing the media of Australia and the effects of war, debt, and change on Australia. AUS is much like the U.S. I learned with debt increasing among people, divorce rates increasing, and marriages happening later in individuals lives.
After class it was sunny for about a half hour and then started to get very cloudy and began raining/pouring. I guess I was being told it was homework day! I planned a few things for New Zealand which takes place in a 2 weeks and also my independent study paper
Mother nature is a little crazy over here. One minute it is sunny and hot and the next its pouring and a bit chilly---today's experience exactly! I was shocked to see such drastic changes in weather. Sometimes form rainy sunny which was what it was like about a month ago (rained everyday but got really nice afterward), however, today it was the opposite.
It rained for the rest of the day and got really chilly but that did not hold us back from playing volleyball---the games played and we were all drenched!
Once I dried off, I did some Insanity's Insane abs with the students and then watched "The Proposal." Watching the movie made me really tired and I think tonight was the earliest I went to bed---about 9:30! Hahaha the ole grandma is coming back out in me! I needed some rest though so it felt great!
By the time I got back it was time to shower and head to Lyn's last lecture! There was one student presentations about the sports in Australia---rugby (15 players on a team, two different categories--Rugby League and Rugby Union, a team game played with an oval ball that may be kicked, carried, and passed from hand to hand, points are scored by grounding the ball behind the opponents' goal line (thereby scoring a try) or by kicking it between the two posts and over the crossbar of the opponents' goal.)), surfing (very competitive sport, competed all over AUS, NZ, and US), and cricket (bat and ball sport, One team bats, trying to score as many runs as possible while the other team bowls and fields, trying to dismiss the batsmen and thus limit the runs scored by the batting team. A run is scored by the striking batsman hitting the ball with his bat, running to the opposite end of the pitch and touching the crease there without being dismissed. The teams switch between batting and fielding at the end of an innings, games can last a short period of a day or long for 3-5 days at a time). Class finished up with Lyn discussing the media of Australia and the effects of war, debt, and change on Australia. AUS is much like the U.S. I learned with debt increasing among people, divorce rates increasing, and marriages happening later in individuals lives.
After class it was sunny for about a half hour and then started to get very cloudy and began raining/pouring. I guess I was being told it was homework day! I planned a few things for New Zealand which takes place in a 2 weeks and also my independent study paper
Mother nature is a little crazy over here. One minute it is sunny and hot and the next its pouring and a bit chilly---today's experience exactly! I was shocked to see such drastic changes in weather. Sometimes form rainy sunny which was what it was like about a month ago (rained everyday but got really nice afterward), however, today it was the opposite.
It rained for the rest of the day and got really chilly but that did not hold us back from playing volleyball---the games played and we were all drenched!
Once I dried off, I did some Insanity's Insane abs with the students and then watched "The Proposal." Watching the movie made me really tired and I think tonight was the earliest I went to bed---about 9:30! Hahaha the ole grandma is coming back out in me! I needed some rest though so it felt great!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Lifestyle Markets/Pacific Fair/Surfers Paradise
This morning I got up at 7:30, repacked my things, and headed down to the same breakfast we had yesterday----cereal, pears, and toast! All the students were slowly waking up and coming down to breakfast a few at a time--everyone seemed a little lethargic today (a little too much alcohol and partying the night before). Some were still a little drunk, some hungover, and most exhausted! We left the hotel at 9AM and headed off to the Lifestyle Markets in the city. The sun was shinning and it was going to be a gorgeous day. These markets were right by the river and had tons of food, jewelry, clothing, shoes, and sweets! I got some beautiful earrings for my sisters and my friends! I walked up and down all the tents and before I knew it, it was time to get back on the bus and head to the Gold Coast.
About an hour later, the bus was pulling into Surfers Paradise which is another name for the Gold Coast. Anthony, the bus driver, drove us to see the Main beach which was filled with tons of people, surfers, and children. I was crawling to get outside in the sun! The first place we went to was Pacific Fair to grab some lunch and shop a bit. I packed a pb and j so I had that a chicken teriyaki sushi roll! Mmmm delicious! I also got an vanilla ice cream from Hungry Jacks. Again those 50 cent scoops are something I can't pass up and neither could the students I was with!
I was ready to head outside after this, and none of us really wanted to shop, so we all walked to Surfers Paradise, about 15 minute walk down the road. The beach was very relaxing, the sand so soft, and I just laid my head down for about an hour. It was still sunny and at the beach, there was a nice gentle breeze to stay cool too! Some of the other students met us there, but pretty soon it was time again to head back to the bus. This time it was time to go to Lennox. We got on the bus and about 2 hours later, we all arrived at the cabins. What a weekend! It felt good, as usual, to get back to the cabins and sleep in my own bed!
It was time to unpack, check the emails, and then grab dinner for family dinner--it was pizza night so I ran with the Professor to Domino's and brought back 21 pizzas for the group! The pizza sizes are very small here--a typical medium is a large here and the biggest they serve so when feeding this many students, we needs lots and lots of pizza! After feeding my face, it was time to finish packing and then go to bed!
I enjoyed this weekend and had a great time in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. I liked Brisbane, but the city was not easy to navigate compared to Melbourne or Sydney.Brisbane had many shops and delicious restaurants. I enjoyed the little town area and the markets, wish I could have got into the club, however, I prefer Melbourne more so than Brisbane.
Very happy to be resting in my own bed tonight and getting some real sleep!
About an hour later, the bus was pulling into Surfers Paradise which is another name for the Gold Coast. Anthony, the bus driver, drove us to see the Main beach which was filled with tons of people, surfers, and children. I was crawling to get outside in the sun! The first place we went to was Pacific Fair to grab some lunch and shop a bit. I packed a pb and j so I had that a chicken teriyaki sushi roll! Mmmm delicious! I also got an vanilla ice cream from Hungry Jacks. Again those 50 cent scoops are something I can't pass up and neither could the students I was with!
I was ready to head outside after this, and none of us really wanted to shop, so we all walked to Surfers Paradise, about 15 minute walk down the road. The beach was very relaxing, the sand so soft, and I just laid my head down for about an hour. It was still sunny and at the beach, there was a nice gentle breeze to stay cool too! Some of the other students met us there, but pretty soon it was time again to head back to the bus. This time it was time to go to Lennox. We got on the bus and about 2 hours later, we all arrived at the cabins. What a weekend! It felt good, as usual, to get back to the cabins and sleep in my own bed!
It was time to unpack, check the emails, and then grab dinner for family dinner--it was pizza night so I ran with the Professor to Domino's and brought back 21 pizzas for the group! The pizza sizes are very small here--a typical medium is a large here and the biggest they serve so when feeding this many students, we needs lots and lots of pizza! After feeding my face, it was time to finish packing and then go to bed!
I enjoyed this weekend and had a great time in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. I liked Brisbane, but the city was not easy to navigate compared to Melbourne or Sydney.Brisbane had many shops and delicious restaurants. I enjoyed the little town area and the markets, wish I could have got into the club, however, I prefer Melbourne more so than Brisbane.
Very happy to be resting in my own bed tonight and getting some real sleep!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Australian Zoo, church/dinner, club
I woke up at 7:10AM and headed down to grab some breakfast. We were served pears, nectarines, cereal, toast, juice, and milk. It was a very stable breakfast! Good thing because today would be a big day! I repacked my backpack and boarded the bus at 9 to go to the Australian Zoo. It took about an hour and 20 minutes to get there. Today's weather looked nice though---lots of sun!
The zoo was gigantic--such big exhibits with far more land! I got up close and per Koalas, kangaroos, snakes, crocodiles, red pandas, and fed the elephants. We went to many shows throughout the day---went to an otter show, the huge Crocodile show---had snakes, birds, and crocs in it, and fed kiwis and cucumbers to 2 elephants. I got to pick a food item from this big bucket and the elephant would take it right from my hand with its trunk leaving nothing but slobber.
The zoo had tons of Steve Irwin memorabilia and was a very interactive, hands-on zoo which I really enjoyed. The zoo had a shuttle---long train basically--which we rode to get to the far back exhibits. We also had a picnic lunch inside the zoo too. Around 430 we decided to head back to the hotel.
The Avila invited me to attend church with them and the Landons (Dani's parents). We were dropped off at St. Stephens which was beautiful church and service. Then we were starving so we stopped at a local restaurant only a couple blocks from the church. Dr. Avila spotted one with outside eating and it was a great pick! I had Fettuccine Marinara with scallops, shrimp, calamari, mushrooms---mmmmm delicious! Kate, professors daughter, and I wanted ice cream so on our back we grabbed some from McDonalds. Both McDonalds and Hungry Jacks (much like Burger King) always have $.50 cones----best cheap treat!!
After ice cream we hiked back to the hotel, I showered and got ready to go out with the other students! I met the students outside the hotel, we got a few maxi taxis to take us to the downtown area where we would find Family--a bar suggested to us. However, i was stepped because I was in flipflops and couldn't enter with them. Colin and Rory stayed with me outside, tried a couple more times to get me in, but all efforts failed. We went to a couple bars called Tempo and Mustang which we fun---had good music, but because there were only three of us together and the bars were starting to charge covers, we decided to head back to the hotel.
I was really mad I didn't have the right shoes on---it was a huge disappointment after hurrying to get ready. We met up with three other students and walked back to the hotel together. None of us knew where we were so we just guessed a general direction and surprisingly made it back. I talked with some students who returned shortly after, and waited in the hallway to make sure all the students came home safely. I got really tired around 2:30 and couln't keep my eyes open so I just had to go to bed. Cami joined me tonight since some of the students got a little wasted and were climbing into each others beds so Cami lost her bed to another student and came to sleep with me. I passed out right away and didn't wake up until the next morning!
The zoo was gigantic--such big exhibits with far more land! I got up close and per Koalas, kangaroos, snakes, crocodiles, red pandas, and fed the elephants. We went to many shows throughout the day---went to an otter show, the huge Crocodile show---had snakes, birds, and crocs in it, and fed kiwis and cucumbers to 2 elephants. I got to pick a food item from this big bucket and the elephant would take it right from my hand with its trunk leaving nothing but slobber.
The zoo had tons of Steve Irwin memorabilia and was a very interactive, hands-on zoo which I really enjoyed. The zoo had a shuttle---long train basically--which we rode to get to the far back exhibits. We also had a picnic lunch inside the zoo too. Around 430 we decided to head back to the hotel.
The Avila invited me to attend church with them and the Landons (Dani's parents). We were dropped off at St. Stephens which was beautiful church and service. Then we were starving so we stopped at a local restaurant only a couple blocks from the church. Dr. Avila spotted one with outside eating and it was a great pick! I had Fettuccine Marinara with scallops, shrimp, calamari, mushrooms---mmmmm delicious! Kate, professors daughter, and I wanted ice cream so on our back we grabbed some from McDonalds. Both McDonalds and Hungry Jacks (much like Burger King) always have $.50 cones----best cheap treat!!
After ice cream we hiked back to the hotel, I showered and got ready to go out with the other students! I met the students outside the hotel, we got a few maxi taxis to take us to the downtown area where we would find Family--a bar suggested to us. However, i was stepped because I was in flipflops and couldn't enter with them. Colin and Rory stayed with me outside, tried a couple more times to get me in, but all efforts failed. We went to a couple bars called Tempo and Mustang which we fun---had good music, but because there were only three of us together and the bars were starting to charge covers, we decided to head back to the hotel.
I was really mad I didn't have the right shoes on---it was a huge disappointment after hurrying to get ready. We met up with three other students and walked back to the hotel together. None of us knew where we were so we just guessed a general direction and surprisingly made it back. I talked with some students who returned shortly after, and waited in the hallway to make sure all the students came home safely. I got really tired around 2:30 and couln't keep my eyes open so I just had to go to bed. Cami joined me tonight since some of the students got a little wasted and were climbing into each others beds so Cami lost her bed to another student and came to sleep with me. I passed out right away and didn't wake up until the next morning!
Friday, April 8, 2011
John Deere/Dreamworld
I got up at 6:25AM to get some last minute packing done before the weekend trip. We were off to Brisbane and the Gold Coast. I had some oatmeal and boarded the bus at 7! I fell asleep right when we started driving for about an hour and felt much better---refreshed for a full day now. Unfortunately the weather was not cooperating today ---pouring on and off on the drive. Everyone was pretty tired so the drive was very quiet. We arrived at John Deere Distribution Centre at 9:25AM. We were welcomed in the break room with cookies, coffee, and soft drinks. Then we went to see the newly released machines, including 4 gigantic tractors-with new GPS systems on all of them. These tractors were really neat and so massive. We then went into the training room where we listened to four employees talk about the art of Deere and how they are dedicated to working hard for the land. Also two guys in the graduate programs talked about the program they were in and their experience as a trainee. They were very attractive too!! Then we took a break and had some lunch provided by Deere. Tons of delicious sandwiches and 2 huge fruit platters!! Mmmm delicious! We went back to the training room for some last Q & A's. The Centre was very nice, classy, and I enjoyed being taught about the company.
We then drove and saw the city front by the river and headed to our hotel. The hotel was called Explorers Inn. I went in to check us in and assign rooms--luckily this time I would get my own room and bed! Once we moved all the stuff from the bus to the room, Colin, Casey, and I walked a few streets to waste time before it was time to grab dinner and go to Dreamworld.
We stopped at an outdoor food court with all kinds of options--McDonalds, KFC, Pizza place, fish and chips place, Baskin Robbins. Mmmmm fast food before we get on roller coasters----bad idea!!!
Dreamworld is an amusement park which turns into "Screamworld" tonight. We got our tickets and ran off to the rides. There were only 6 large rides including: The claw---awesome ride---my first and last ride of the evening--it spins and swings. Then we went to Cyclone--poor roller coaster which rattled my head too much, then Wipeout--this one was crazy--very wild and moved in all kinds of directions as well as upside down. I didn't really like this one---just threw me around way too much! Then it was off to Moto-cross which was really fun. This ride took place on motorcycles---being hunched over on the handle bars and shoots out really fast like its racing! We did the Giant Drop next---actually 3x in a row since now one else was in line----after the first time the operator made us walk around and enter again but then after the second time, he just kept us on the ride and shot us back up in the air! My stomach dropped each and every time with the drops---enjoyed this thrill! Then we went to the Tower of Terror II---it was the longest line we waited in, about 45 minutes, and was rather weak---it shot backward and the straight vertical and then dropped us. Rather unimpressive. We ran to the Claw one last time before the park closed and finished watching an awesome light show. Lots of American music was playing, a strobe was going, dancing, and cool lights in many different shapes and forms. Some lights were people, words, shapes---neat show. Luckily the rain had stayed away for the rest of the afternoon until the light show was ending---then got a few sprinkles, but otherwise we were very lucky for the weather today.
We left at 10 when the park closed and were back to the hotel in about 50 minutes. Colin, Casey, and Rory came over to my room and played some Egyptian Ratscrew. We only played two games and then all fell asleep on my bed with the hotel door wide open. Colin was laying on Casey's calves, I was behind Colin on my side and Rory was lying flat right behind me. It was definitely a little weird when we woke up--about 10-15 minutes later. The other students left shortly later and I was out within minutes in my huge bed to myself. I slept very well--what a long first day!
We then drove and saw the city front by the river and headed to our hotel. The hotel was called Explorers Inn. I went in to check us in and assign rooms--luckily this time I would get my own room and bed! Once we moved all the stuff from the bus to the room, Colin, Casey, and I walked a few streets to waste time before it was time to grab dinner and go to Dreamworld.
We stopped at an outdoor food court with all kinds of options--McDonalds, KFC, Pizza place, fish and chips place, Baskin Robbins. Mmmmm fast food before we get on roller coasters----bad idea!!!
Dreamworld is an amusement park which turns into "Screamworld" tonight. We got our tickets and ran off to the rides. There were only 6 large rides including: The claw---awesome ride---my first and last ride of the evening--it spins and swings. Then we went to Cyclone--poor roller coaster which rattled my head too much, then Wipeout--this one was crazy--very wild and moved in all kinds of directions as well as upside down. I didn't really like this one---just threw me around way too much! Then it was off to Moto-cross which was really fun. This ride took place on motorcycles---being hunched over on the handle bars and shoots out really fast like its racing! We did the Giant Drop next---actually 3x in a row since now one else was in line----after the first time the operator made us walk around and enter again but then after the second time, he just kept us on the ride and shot us back up in the air! My stomach dropped each and every time with the drops---enjoyed this thrill! Then we went to the Tower of Terror II---it was the longest line we waited in, about 45 minutes, and was rather weak---it shot backward and the straight vertical and then dropped us. Rather unimpressive. We ran to the Claw one last time before the park closed and finished watching an awesome light show. Lots of American music was playing, a strobe was going, dancing, and cool lights in many different shapes and forms. Some lights were people, words, shapes---neat show. Luckily the rain had stayed away for the rest of the afternoon until the light show was ending---then got a few sprinkles, but otherwise we were very lucky for the weather today.
We left at 10 when the park closed and were back to the hotel in about 50 minutes. Colin, Casey, and Rory came over to my room and played some Egyptian Ratscrew. We only played two games and then all fell asleep on my bed with the hotel door wide open. Colin was laying on Casey's calves, I was behind Colin on my side and Rory was lying flat right behind me. It was definitely a little weird when we woke up--about 10-15 minutes later. The other students left shortly later and I was out within minutes in my huge bed to myself. I slept very well--what a long first day!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Run/grocery day/sun and beach/vball/taco salad dinner
This morning surprisingly it wasn't raining so I went out for a run. On my way back it started to sprinkle and when I stepped in my house, it just started pouring---perfect timing! Good run too! Then it was time to go grocery shopping---I didn't need food, but I went to the Target in the mall and looked around. By the time the students and I were done shopping, we headed back to the cabins. It was so sunny today so we all ran off to the beach---it was a bit windy but the sun felt so good. I spent about an hour on the beach and then came back to play volleyball. The game we played was so much fun--I think it was 6 on 6 and some intense volleys going on. I love sand volleyball!
I couldn't get myself out the sun, but it turned cloudy about 4PM so I retreated inside to get some homework done. Some of the guys started running after a turkey and trying to catch it, but the turkey won this time and ran quickly away. I showed some the guys the new gym which they were excited about and did my own cardio/strength training circuit. I came back to find Abby, my roommate, made me some chicken for a chicken taco salad---mmm delicious!
This weekend we were all heading to Brisbane so I had to get a few things packed, shower, and clean up the cabin before leaving bright and early in the morning. It was a long night to say the least----lots to do!
I couldn't get myself out the sun, but it turned cloudy about 4PM so I retreated inside to get some homework done. Some of the guys started running after a turkey and trying to catch it, but the turkey won this time and ran quickly away. I showed some the guys the new gym which they were excited about and did my own cardio/strength training circuit. I came back to find Abby, my roommate, made me some chicken for a chicken taco salad---mmm delicious!
This weekend we were all heading to Brisbane so I had to get a few things packed, shower, and clean up the cabin before leaving bright and early in the morning. It was a long night to say the least----lots to do!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Class/workout
This morning I had to watch my leadership class online. It was already raining this morning---I think the last week it has rained! I went to the education building with Colin and did Insanity's Max Cardio Circuit--this was 59 minutes of 45 second cardio spurts! Wow what a workout! By the end I had so much sweat in my eyes I couldn't even open them! Now thats a killer workout!
Volleyball started once the students returned from class--luckily the clouds parted and we finally saw some sun!!! I had been missing it for awhile but it came back on and off today! A bunch of students and I laid out right in between our cabins---it was beautiful! Sunny and breezy--just perfect! Volleyball continued throughout the day---my team made it to the championship, but then we lost the big game!
I got to use the new gymnasium which was just finished this past weekend. The gym is 3x as big and way more equipment so I am super excited. Better late than never! I came back to my cabin to do some Ab Ripper with 4 other students and then made dinner for Abby and I. I made chicken patties, mac and cheese, and peas---mmm delicious! Then it was off to the last dessert night at the Avila! Mmmmmm oreo pies, cookies and cream ice cream, cheesecake!! I ate way too much but it was delicious! I went back to my cabin to play some Scrabble (starting to love that game) with some students! I was exhausted by midnight when I crawled into bed----time for some zzzz's!
Volleyball started once the students returned from class--luckily the clouds parted and we finally saw some sun!!! I had been missing it for awhile but it came back on and off today! A bunch of students and I laid out right in between our cabins---it was beautiful! Sunny and breezy--just perfect! Volleyball continued throughout the day---my team made it to the championship, but then we lost the big game!
I got to use the new gymnasium which was just finished this past weekend. The gym is 3x as big and way more equipment so I am super excited. Better late than never! I came back to my cabin to do some Ab Ripper with 4 other students and then made dinner for Abby and I. I made chicken patties, mac and cheese, and peas---mmm delicious! Then it was off to the last dessert night at the Avila! Mmmmmm oreo pies, cookies and cream ice cream, cheesecake!! I ate way too much but it was delicious! I went back to my cabin to play some Scrabble (starting to love that game) with some students! I was exhausted by midnight when I crawled into bed----time for some zzzz's!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Spin/drive to Bangalow/Butler game
I did a spinning exercise this morning-I have never dripped sweat this bad before---as gross as this sounds it was dripping in my mouth, eyes, and nose---ewww!! But a great workout! Then I had to quickly rinse off and drive four students to Bangalow Primary School to volunteer. I am getting very accustomed to driving on the opposite side-it actually feels normal! I may have problems adapting back once I get to the U.S.
When I got back I had a taste for some eggs so I made some scrambled eggs and toast--mmmm! I had a few papers to catch up on so it was back to the homework for the afternoon!
I got to skype with my mom and talk with Natalie too! Its so nice hearing from home! I had to go pick up the students from Bangalow and I stopped at the Macadamia Castle on the way back to get all of us ice cream--I tried some carrot cake which was not the best I have ever had but a nice treat!
When I got back it was still raining on and off so volleyball was delayed! I had a paper to write so I did homework most of today anyway. It was a very cloudy, rainy, rather depressing day. It is starting to get really chilly---I wore a sweatshirt all day. Australia is going into their Fall and Winter season now. I hope the sun comes back soon!!!
When I got back I had a taste for some eggs so I made some scrambled eggs and toast--mmmm! I had a few papers to catch up on so it was back to the homework for the afternoon!
I got to skype with my mom and talk with Natalie too! Its so nice hearing from home! I had to go pick up the students from Bangalow and I stopped at the Macadamia Castle on the way back to get all of us ice cream--I tried some carrot cake which was not the best I have ever had but a nice treat!
When I got back it was still raining on and off so volleyball was delayed! I had a paper to write so I did homework most of today anyway. It was a very cloudy, rainy, rather depressing day. It is starting to get really chilly---I wore a sweatshirt all day. Australia is going into their Fall and Winter season now. I hope the sun comes back soon!!!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Insanity/class/grocery/vball/monday night dinner
This morning, Colin and I did 2 Insanity workouts---Pure Cardio and Cardio Abs--we had been slacking on the weekends since we were traveling so this morning kicked our butts hard! It felt great getting back into routine and kicking my butt. It was right off to Australian Life and Culture with Lyn after the workout. I learned about Australian film, poetry, and movies today. The top three box office movies in AUS were "Crocodile Dundee", "Australia", and "Babe". Popular music in AUS in the 50s,60s, and 70s were the Beegees. The during the 90s more rock, punk,and pop mix became popular featuring Screaming Jacks, Kylie Monoque, and Powderfinger (very popular country band). Then in 2000s--music became a huge teenage market-- Savage Garden was very popular. Lyn played a lot of songs and short clips of films throughout class which everyone enjoyed!
After class, I took a few students to the grocery store. Once I started driving it started to pour! It was coming down hard and fast----it was very bright and sunny this morning so I never expected the rain but it hit rather suddenly however lasted less than an hour, mostly hard rain and drizzling trading on and off.
Once the clouds cleared it was time to play volleyball and start up the matches. I won this week with my team of Cami, Misha, and Austin. We go to Round 2 tomorrow!
After my game, I went to the gym for a little while to strength train and then had to return and help out for group dinner--it would be sloppy joes and mac&cheese tonight! Cami made some with a spicy sauce and some with a sweet sauce. It was not my favorite, but it sure served a lot of people---with tons of left-overs for tomorrow! The night ended with a short meeting and then it was off to my cabin to catch up on homework! This week is going so fast and I have so much to do! The time in AUS is so limited now, every minute counts!
After class, I took a few students to the grocery store. Once I started driving it started to pour! It was coming down hard and fast----it was very bright and sunny this morning so I never expected the rain but it hit rather suddenly however lasted less than an hour, mostly hard rain and drizzling trading on and off.
Once the clouds cleared it was time to play volleyball and start up the matches. I won this week with my team of Cami, Misha, and Austin. We go to Round 2 tomorrow!
After my game, I went to the gym for a little while to strength train and then had to return and help out for group dinner--it would be sloppy joes and mac&cheese tonight! Cami made some with a spicy sauce and some with a sweet sauce. It was not my favorite, but it sure served a lot of people---with tons of left-overs for tomorrow! The night ended with a short meeting and then it was off to my cabin to catch up on homework! This week is going so fast and I have so much to do! The time in AUS is so limited now, every minute counts!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Cairns/flight to Gold Coast
I woke up around 8:30AM, repacked my backpack, and made a little oatmeal--which was left in the free food bin at the hostel so I tried it and it wasn't bad. The window in the hostel was open all night and it felt great---there was a nice breeze coming in all night! We checked out at 9:30AM and headed to Dunn St. On the map, I found a street called Dunn and I had to visit it so we walked about 7 blocks to find it! The street was only one block, but it was neat to see! Then we had to walk all the way back to town, grabbed some breakfast at a local cafe, and headed to the airport pick-up spot. We got back to the airport, got checked in very quickly--again super easy and just hung out with the other BSU students until boarding. I sat next to Colin and Abby on this flight again, but ended up standing in the back talking to the flight attendants for most of the trip. The girls were all from Gold Coast and were asking if I had ever met Oprah, strict security in America, traveling to America, and US-cities. The flight went very well and after landing we met the bus driver that was driving us all home. The ride took about an hour---and I fell asleep in the front seat! What a long weekend!
After getting back to the cabins, I went to church with the Avila and then unpacked the rest of the evening---just taking it easy and getting situated again!
After getting back to the cabins, I went to church with the Avila and then unpacked the rest of the evening---just taking it easy and getting situated again!
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