Abbreviated words that Kiwis use (instead of the not-much-longer word):
mozzy (mosquitos)
prezzy (presents)
rellies (relatives)
rezzy (reservation)
preggers (pregnant)
flatty (flat mates)
chewy (gum)
cuppa (coffee or tea)
arvo (afternoon)
ruggers (rugby)
lippy (lip gloss)
brekky (breakfast)
trackies (sweat pants)
mezzy (mezzanine)
lappy (laptop)
nappy (diaper)
cuzzy (cousin)
pokies (poker)
chippy (fish 'n chips shops)
Words that Kiwis say that are more phonetically correct than us:
zebra
herb
Words that just look funny in print: (and come up wrong on spell check every time):
tyres
travelling
yoghurt
harbour
decafe (as in coffee)
favourite
colour
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Friday, February 23, 2007
Julia
She's left!
She's moved out!
She took her husband and dog with her!
And yet, I am a bit sad... (barely a bit, but still a bit).
Yes, it's true. Julia has moved out. She's taken all of her possessions (most of the furniture, cooking ware, all of the silverware and plates, all major appliances...) and moved to her own place with her husband and dog (who have been living with us for the last month).
Flashback to one month ago: before we knew that Julia was deciding to leave, my flatties decided to move out and away from her (I was in Aussie at this time but was invited to join at their new place). They found a place just up the road and put down a deposit just before I returned. We were two days away from moving when Julia told us that she had bought a house. Instead of moving, we scrambled to drop the other house and stay in the one we're in. Our scrambling was successful, and we found that we were able to stay here with the lease transferred to Ian's name.
Now I still don't care for Julia, but I am not as glad to see her go as the rest of the crew. For starters, our dislike of her was a bond that brought the rest of us together. Also, the necessity for us to keep the house clean (because of her rules) was tolerable because we could complain about it and her. But it still got done. When she's gone, there's no telling how often this place will be cleaned (I don't live with the most motivated cleaners...).
But the thing that shocked me the most was the recent hour-long conversation I had with her in which she shared her insightful observations about all of the flatties with me. She told me what she thought about us all, about our personalities, and what kind of people we all are. Surprisingly, I think she hit the nail on the head. Her opinions of my flatties are similar to my own secret opinions based on observations. She also said that she trusted me second to Ian, and thought I was the strongest in the flat (when often I feel the opposite).
I think possibly, in a devilish kind of way, Julia is a lot more kind than we all thought, although even a couple of days after our heart-to-heart, I couldn't stand her again. And when she recently came and took the last of what she owned including the shelves in the bathroom, all of the drapes from all of the windows in the house, and the shades from the light fixtures in each of our rooms, I was really mad. (Luckily, though I was glad that I had thought ahead to pack my weighless, spaceless chinese lamp shade before coming to New Zealand - I knew that sucker would come in handy!).
If only her personality would have been a bit more tolerable and likable, we all would have gotten along much, much better.
So long Julia, good luck in your new place. Maybe invite us over for dinner (since we don't have a table, fridge, or flatware anymore)?
She's moved out!
She took her husband and dog with her!
And yet, I am a bit sad... (barely a bit, but still a bit).
Yes, it's true. Julia has moved out. She's taken all of her possessions (most of the furniture, cooking ware, all of the silverware and plates, all major appliances...) and moved to her own place with her husband and dog (who have been living with us for the last month).
Flashback to one month ago: before we knew that Julia was deciding to leave, my flatties decided to move out and away from her (I was in Aussie at this time but was invited to join at their new place). They found a place just up the road and put down a deposit just before I returned. We were two days away from moving when Julia told us that she had bought a house. Instead of moving, we scrambled to drop the other house and stay in the one we're in. Our scrambling was successful, and we found that we were able to stay here with the lease transferred to Ian's name.
Now I still don't care for Julia, but I am not as glad to see her go as the rest of the crew. For starters, our dislike of her was a bond that brought the rest of us together. Also, the necessity for us to keep the house clean (because of her rules) was tolerable because we could complain about it and her. But it still got done. When she's gone, there's no telling how often this place will be cleaned (I don't live with the most motivated cleaners...).
But the thing that shocked me the most was the recent hour-long conversation I had with her in which she shared her insightful observations about all of the flatties with me. She told me what she thought about us all, about our personalities, and what kind of people we all are. Surprisingly, I think she hit the nail on the head. Her opinions of my flatties are similar to my own secret opinions based on observations. She also said that she trusted me second to Ian, and thought I was the strongest in the flat (when often I feel the opposite).
I think possibly, in a devilish kind of way, Julia is a lot more kind than we all thought, although even a couple of days after our heart-to-heart, I couldn't stand her again. And when she recently came and took the last of what she owned including the shelves in the bathroom, all of the drapes from all of the windows in the house, and the shades from the light fixtures in each of our rooms, I was really mad. (Luckily, though I was glad that I had thought ahead to pack my weighless, spaceless chinese lamp shade before coming to New Zealand - I knew that sucker would come in handy!).
If only her personality would have been a bit more tolerable and likable, we all would have gotten along much, much better.
So long Julia, good luck in your new place. Maybe invite us over for dinner (since we don't have a table, fridge, or flatware anymore)?
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
My restaurant
IS NOT a gay bar. Is not.
When Mom called this week and said 'So, are you working at the gay bar tonight?' I knew I needed to clarify.
Mom, it's not a gay bar.
"I think that's what everyone thinks!' she said.
Mom. It's not a gay bar.
'Even Gary thinks so' (puts hand over the phone) 'Don't you, Gare?' (confirmation from the background) 'Yeah, Gary too.'
Garyls! It's not a gay bar!
SPQR is THE bar. It's THE MOST happening place in Ponsonby. I love working there.
But it's not a gay bar.
The poshest of posh hang out there. It's been a busy hot spot on Ponsonby road since it opened more than 12 years ago.
But it's not a gay bar.
Maybe Nay Nay DOES wave at firetrucks (and the public transportation buses) when they go by.
But it's not a gay bar.
Many of our male customers prefer pink.
Many of our male customers wear nicer clothes than most men.
MANY of our male customers wear nicer clothes than most women.
Many of our male customers prefer, well... nevermind...
But it's not a gay bar.
Any questions?
When Mom called this week and said 'So, are you working at the gay bar tonight?' I knew I needed to clarify.
Mom, it's not a gay bar.
"I think that's what everyone thinks!' she said.
Mom. It's not a gay bar.
'Even Gary thinks so' (puts hand over the phone) 'Don't you, Gare?' (confirmation from the background) 'Yeah, Gary too.'
Garyls! It's not a gay bar!
SPQR is THE bar. It's THE MOST happening place in Ponsonby. I love working there.
But it's not a gay bar.
The poshest of posh hang out there. It's been a busy hot spot on Ponsonby road since it opened more than 12 years ago.
But it's not a gay bar.
Maybe Nay Nay DOES wave at firetrucks (and the public transportation buses) when they go by.
But it's not a gay bar.
Many of our male customers prefer pink.
Many of our male customers wear nicer clothes than most men.
MANY of our male customers wear nicer clothes than most women.
Many of our male customers prefer, well... nevermind...
But it's not a gay bar.
Any questions?
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Update
(for the moms and grandmas)
Teaching:
I am still teaching each day. I have upped my schools from two to six, and have relief work on a near daily basis.
One of my permanent jobs is a weekly relief position at Richmond Road (the original school I started at). I work for a teacher named Mareta while she has a release day each Thursday. She's got the babies, the new entrants, all five years old (like beginning kindergarten kiddos). The best part? Since it's the beginning of the year, there' s only 12 of the little (monsters) cherubs.
I am fortunate to work at very high decile (highly ranked) schools, but am still glad that I chose not to take a full time position, as the lack of consistency and coordination within them is enough to drive me mad! I am enjoying my work, though, and am learning from the (sometimes serious) challenges of each new day. Plus I am really keen on the flexibility that my job provides. I'm trying to look for some professional development courses, but the ones I am finding leave a lot to be desired. Too much money for not enough information...
My other job:
I was promoted to manager at SPQR for one of my shifts per week for a short period of time. After training for about two weeks (and doing well, I assure you), my other manager and I realized that it would be more beneficial to train someone who'd been around longer, who works more full time, and who will be around longer than I can guarantee I'll be. So, effectively, I was demoted as quickly as I was promoted. I liked doing it, but was a bit relieved when he told me that he was going to train someone else, as it's really hard to be a manager to others who've been working there for 5-6 years. So, I am still working one or two serving shift a week and doing cashier work as well, and am still getting a bit of a raise. Which helps with the raise in rent (see next line).
Living:
My flatting situation has moved from 5 to 4 people. Upon moving out, Julia has taken all but the house with her. She has taken all of the kitchen ware (and most of the kitchen), all of the furniture, my bed (back to the floor for me!) and the fridge. She has left one handle-less pot, a few pieces of cutlery, some dirty floor rugs and a dodgy couch (thanks, Julia). So although I once kicked myself for packing silverware, cheap plates and a frying pan when I came, I am now thinking that was a pretty smart idea. And I am only eating food that doesn't require refrigeration, which in this country, luckily includes eggs.
I have enrolled in a hip-hop dance class at the Auckland Centre of Performing Arts. It rocks my world. I can get the moves just fine, but I have just about as much grace as Bob Dole. Which is why I enrolled.
Future(?):
Most recently, I am waiting to hear back about a nanny job in Europe. I have applied for positions mostly in France, London and Greece. If a position comes through, I'll leave New Zealand within a few weeks of accepting it.
I am also still waiting to hear about teaching jobs overseas as well, although I am not sure that there are many that will suit me. Primary aged teachers in Europe seem to be quite happy with their jobs...
I have back-up plans in case neither plan happens, but we'll see how we go. I am quite happy where I am, so no need to stress either way.
Completely unrelated...:
Congrats to my teacher-friend Tamara who just got engaged to her long-lost, lifetime love. Woo hoo!
Yesterday I waited on Earl Spencer, Princess Di's brother. Which was more cool because of the fact that he is the uncle to Princes William and Harry...
Teaching:
I am still teaching each day. I have upped my schools from two to six, and have relief work on a near daily basis.
One of my permanent jobs is a weekly relief position at Richmond Road (the original school I started at). I work for a teacher named Mareta while she has a release day each Thursday. She's got the babies, the new entrants, all five years old (like beginning kindergarten kiddos). The best part? Since it's the beginning of the year, there' s only 12 of the little (monsters) cherubs.
I am fortunate to work at very high decile (highly ranked) schools, but am still glad that I chose not to take a full time position, as the lack of consistency and coordination within them is enough to drive me mad! I am enjoying my work, though, and am learning from the (sometimes serious) challenges of each new day. Plus I am really keen on the flexibility that my job provides. I'm trying to look for some professional development courses, but the ones I am finding leave a lot to be desired. Too much money for not enough information...
My other job:
I was promoted to manager at SPQR for one of my shifts per week for a short period of time. After training for about two weeks (and doing well, I assure you), my other manager and I realized that it would be more beneficial to train someone who'd been around longer, who works more full time, and who will be around longer than I can guarantee I'll be. So, effectively, I was demoted as quickly as I was promoted. I liked doing it, but was a bit relieved when he told me that he was going to train someone else, as it's really hard to be a manager to others who've been working there for 5-6 years. So, I am still working one or two serving shift a week and doing cashier work as well, and am still getting a bit of a raise. Which helps with the raise in rent (see next line).
Living:
My flatting situation has moved from 5 to 4 people. Upon moving out, Julia has taken all but the house with her. She has taken all of the kitchen ware (and most of the kitchen), all of the furniture, my bed (back to the floor for me!) and the fridge. She has left one handle-less pot, a few pieces of cutlery, some dirty floor rugs and a dodgy couch (thanks, Julia). So although I once kicked myself for packing silverware, cheap plates and a frying pan when I came, I am now thinking that was a pretty smart idea. And I am only eating food that doesn't require refrigeration, which in this country, luckily includes eggs.
I have enrolled in a hip-hop dance class at the Auckland Centre of Performing Arts. It rocks my world. I can get the moves just fine, but I have just about as much grace as Bob Dole. Which is why I enrolled.
Future(?):
Most recently, I am waiting to hear back about a nanny job in Europe. I have applied for positions mostly in France, London and Greece. If a position comes through, I'll leave New Zealand within a few weeks of accepting it.
I am also still waiting to hear about teaching jobs overseas as well, although I am not sure that there are many that will suit me. Primary aged teachers in Europe seem to be quite happy with their jobs...
I have back-up plans in case neither plan happens, but we'll see how we go. I am quite happy where I am, so no need to stress either way.
Completely unrelated...:
Congrats to my teacher-friend Tamara who just got engaged to her long-lost, lifetime love. Woo hoo!
Yesterday I waited on Earl Spencer, Princess Di's brother. Which was more cool because of the fact that he is the uncle to Princes William and Harry...
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Mary says
When Mary got home, she e-mailed me right away. It's interesting to see that the 'weirdness' goes backwards as well, and things we once found common at home are now unfamiliar and worth mentioning. Her e-mail from home follows:
---
"Things I did immediately upon getting to Union Square in San
Francisco...went into the Gap. You aren't missing much, but it is still way
better than Supre and Glassons. Then I ate an authentic, well sort of,
burrito at the food court! It was delicious!
Things I have noticed since arriving home about an hour and half ago:
there is too much water in the toilet bowl*, and it feels strange to
shower in a shower with a bathtub**.
I have caught myself getting ready to say "flash," and I have
repeatedly said "no worries" and "I'll see how I go."
I was nervous about maybe not remembering how to drive, but when I
drove to Gigi's for lunch on Tuesday, it was completely second nature!
I asked my dad if he'd ever heard of vegemite, and he said yes, but
he's never tried it.
When I plug something in to the outlet, I keep reaching to flip on the
switch (but, it is nonexistent, of course!).***
My parents have 5 huge jars of mild salsa in their pantry...my dad eats
it on everything...I forgot how much I missed salsa..."
----
*in New Zealand there is about 1-2 cups of water in each toilet bowl
**90% of showers here are square, 3x3 showers
***EVERY light switch here has a toggle switch to turn the current on, and it is common practice to always have the electricity off unless the outlet is in use.
---
"Things I did immediately upon getting to Union Square in San
Francisco...went into the Gap. You aren't missing much, but it is still way
better than Supre and Glassons. Then I ate an authentic, well sort of,
burrito at the food court! It was delicious!
Things I have noticed since arriving home about an hour and half ago:
there is too much water in the toilet bowl*, and it feels strange to
shower in a shower with a bathtub**.
I have caught myself getting ready to say "flash," and I have
repeatedly said "no worries" and "I'll see how I go."
I was nervous about maybe not remembering how to drive, but when I
drove to Gigi's for lunch on Tuesday, it was completely second nature!
I asked my dad if he'd ever heard of vegemite, and he said yes, but
he's never tried it.
When I plug something in to the outlet, I keep reaching to flip on the
switch (but, it is nonexistent, of course!).***
My parents have 5 huge jars of mild salsa in their pantry...my dad eats
it on everything...I forgot how much I missed salsa..."
----
*in New Zealand there is about 1-2 cups of water in each toilet bowl
**90% of showers here are square, 3x3 showers
***EVERY light switch here has a toggle switch to turn the current on, and it is common practice to always have the electricity off unless the outlet is in use.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Mary
When I decided to come to New Zealand, I knew Mary would be very excited. I never thought she would want to really actually come with though.
Her exact words were:
"Wendy! I'm coming with you, and I am NOT joking".
She wasn't...
Although it took a little push and pull, but she made the decision to expand her worldly experiences by spending a few months overseas.
But now it's Mary's time to leave.
(sad, but true)
I think Mary, like myself, has grown a lot since coming. I know she'll return to the States with a renewed sense of self and the confidence to do anything she wants, including things she might not have done previously. All because she can say she took a step and made the biggest decision of her life work out splendidly.
While here, our agendas were a bit different. Although more traveling would have been ideal, a little less leaves something for the reunion tour, right?
Mary has been a rock for me here. I have so enjoyed calling on her for lunch a couple of times each week, and she is a brilliant travel partner. Our differences allow us to be together well, as she is calm, collected, and organized, where I am not (at all). We've seen a lot, done a lot, and been through a lot, which will always be a huge part of our friendship, a part that others will never be able to understand.
(Besides, she can also say she was the official friend who was with me when I got my first tattoo...)
So Mary, I wish you the best. I hope that the explanation of all that you've seen and done does justice to the experience you actually had, even though you know it never will. But in me you'll have a friend who can always laugh at that funny joke about Canadians and hockey or your use of the term 'snow monkeys'.
Needless to say, you'll be sorely missed. Good bye and good luck Miss Mare...
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Three (7) squares a day
When I come back to the States, this is what I am going to eat during the first day:
For breakfast:
three large, warm Cinnabons and two bowls of Lucky Charms
Morning snack:
16 rice krispie snacks from Java Joe's and a large bowl of italian tomato salad from Palmer's
Lunch:
a hot dog with ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish and nachos with orange nacho cheese
Afternoon snack:
bacon, bacon and bacon with a side of Velveeta Shells and Cheese (one box should be enough)
Dinner:
Olive Garden (one of everything on the menu plus 80% of my body weight in breadsticks and 20% in salad)
Dessert:
fried ice cream (two servings)
Evening treat:
grandpa's homemade ice cream
(And this is all just day one. On day two I'll start on 7 boxes of Pizza Hut breadsticks with maranara and a sugar-free raspberry lemonade icee from Target...)
ps - Don't take it personally that taco casserole didn't make my list, Mom...
For breakfast:
three large, warm Cinnabons and two bowls of Lucky Charms
Morning snack:
16 rice krispie snacks from Java Joe's and a large bowl of italian tomato salad from Palmer's
Lunch:
a hot dog with ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish and nachos with orange nacho cheese
Afternoon snack:
bacon, bacon and bacon with a side of Velveeta Shells and Cheese (one box should be enough)
Dinner:
Olive Garden (one of everything on the menu plus 80% of my body weight in breadsticks and 20% in salad)
Dessert:
fried ice cream (two servings)
Evening treat:
grandpa's homemade ice cream
(And this is all just day one. On day two I'll start on 7 boxes of Pizza Hut breadsticks with maranara and a sugar-free raspberry lemonade icee from Target...)
ps - Don't take it personally that taco casserole didn't make my list, Mom...
Friday, February 02, 2007
Who wins?
Australia v. New Zealand
Best accent: Aussie (hands down)
Cuter boys: Aussie (hands down)
More things to do: Aussie
Cheapest: Aussie
Best cafes: New Zealand
Best mussels: New Zealand
Best city: Sydney (hands down)
Best landscape: tie
Better national anthem: New Zealand
Most beautiful overall: New Zealand
Funnier looking money: tie
Better weather: New Zealand
Best drivers: Australia
Best grammar: neither
Best rugby: NEW ZEALAND (hands down)
Best cricket: who cares?
Which am I most likely to visit on my reunion tour: New Zealand for the memories, Australia for all that I haven't seen...
Overall winner: is in the head of the writer (which will stay private, thank you very much...)
Best accent: Aussie (hands down)
Cuter boys: Aussie (hands down)
More things to do: Aussie
Cheapest: Aussie
Best cafes: New Zealand
Best mussels: New Zealand
Best city: Sydney (hands down)
Best landscape: tie
Better national anthem: New Zealand
Most beautiful overall: New Zealand
Funnier looking money: tie
Better weather: New Zealand
Best drivers: Australia
Best grammar: neither
Best rugby: NEW ZEALAND (hands down)
Best cricket: who cares?
Which am I most likely to visit on my reunion tour: New Zealand for the memories, Australia for all that I haven't seen...
Overall winner: is in the head of the writer (which will stay private, thank you very much...)
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Done and done
And back to reality.
Our Aussie tour ends today.
Being on a Contiki tour allowed me to be devoid of any responsibility whatsoever. I didn't expect that upon booking, but was appreciative of it while I was there.
Each day we were told where to be and when to be there, where we could and couldn't eat, and what was or wasn't included. Buses picked us up and dropped us off at every stop. Our hotels and most meals were arranged. I really had to sit back and enjoy. Plus, being with 45 others who are in the same place in their lives as you was a treat as well.
During my last few days I spent time deep-sea diving in the Great Barrier Reef (which cost a fortune but was worth it), hiked and slept in the Australian rainforest (did you know Australia even had a rainforest? see picture above), and saw the only place in the world where two natural ecosystems (the reef and the rainforest) come together.
And then I said goodbye and went home.
Back to reality.
(and bills) :(
Saturday, January 20, 2007
So much to do!
I LOVE Australia!
Since last time, I have met up with my tour group and started my trip up the east coast of Australia.
It is worth mentioning that this tour group makes the trip amazing. 45 others, just like me, who want to see Australia.
Since leaving Sydney I've seen incredible sights including the sun rising over the Pacific, held a koala, and today I became a surfer. I even got up for about 7 seconds on my last run. It was amazing.
Unfortunately, the trip is nearly devoid of good-looking blokes, as there are only 12 to the 30 sheilas on board. There are a couple, though...
We're partying like rock stars each night. Last night we went to the worst club as part of our whole group. Needless to say, two of my new, bestest girl friends and I took the party elsewhere, to a bar where there was noone. Before we knew it, the place was jamming, and we were to blame. :)
Oh. And did I mention that I now own TWO pairs of skinny jeans?
I pretty much feel like I'm 20 again. Which is ok.
(no, actually it's great...)
Since last time, I have met up with my tour group and started my trip up the east coast of Australia.
It is worth mentioning that this tour group makes the trip amazing. 45 others, just like me, who want to see Australia.
Since leaving Sydney I've seen incredible sights including the sun rising over the Pacific, held a koala, and today I became a surfer. I even got up for about 7 seconds on my last run. It was amazing.
Unfortunately, the trip is nearly devoid of good-looking blokes, as there are only 12 to the 30 sheilas on board. There are a couple, though...
We're partying like rock stars each night. Last night we went to the worst club as part of our whole group. Needless to say, two of my new, bestest girl friends and I took the party elsewhere, to a bar where there was noone. Before we knew it, the place was jamming, and we were to blame. :)
Oh. And did I mention that I now own TWO pairs of skinny jeans?
I pretty much feel like I'm 20 again. Which is ok.
(no, actually it's great...)
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Things I know
1. I love to jaywalk.
2. Sydney is THE MOST BEAUTIFUL and amazing city I've ever been to. Ever.
(And I'm not usually impressed that easily.)
I want to come back very, very soon.
Maybe for a long, long time...
Monday, January 15, 2007
Lauren and Simon
Traveling is all about connections.
In my adventures so far, I have met the most amazing people who live all over the world. And I have met people who know people who live all over the world, so that even if I don't know them, my friends do. Like friends of a friend of a friend.
But it's still all about connections.
In Melbourne, Mary and I have been set up with Lauren and her husband Simon through my connection with Tera, my bestest Florida friend, who I know through traveling to Maine.
Lauren is an ex-pat from Merrett Island, Florida, where Tera is from too. Lauren headed to Australia for a holiday about three years ago and met her husband, Simon. They've been married since not too long after she arrived (good on you, Lauren!).
I got in touch with Lauren once we finalized our plans for coming to Melbourne, and she offered to take us around for some shopping. For her occupation, Lauren buys incredible clothes at cheap prices and re-sells them on Ebay. She is also looking into designing her own label very soon. She knows her shopping. So on Monday, she took us to her favorite part of town for shopping and we had a ball.
That evening, we met up with her and Simon for dinner. They took us to the most INCREDIBLE Italian restaurant for dinner. Best pizza I've ever had. The wine was incredible too - they sell it in a litre carafe for $12. We each had our own pizza and shared a litre and a half of red wine for less than $60AU (about $50US). Then we had the best gelati ever, and went to a bar to sit on comfy vintage couches while drinking (more) red wine and listening to Michael Jackson.
Simon and Lauren were great hosts, and it was a night I'll never forget.
Now, the moral of this story is that traveling is all about connections. Had we not met up with Lauren and Simon (through Tera, bless you...) my (as I can't speak for Mary) personal experience in Melbourne would have been mediocre. We would have walked around the city and seen the sights that we could on limited budget, transportation, and time. But instead, we could easily come back to Melbourne again with a new sense of understanding of more of the city because of the generosity of new friends.
Friends who, through connections, might someday have a place to stay with me, wherever I may be...
The land of OZ
(really, though, I am not sure how they got Oz out of Australia, but I've learned not to question these kinds of things...)
In Aussie, safe and sound.
The two words I'd use to describe Australia on first sight: big and brown.
New Zealand: vegetative. Australia: dry and dead.
Hot too. I prefer temperatures between 20-25(C), tomorrow it's supposed to be 39.
The hotel we're staying in is a bit dodgy, but they do have A/C, which I haven't seen since leaving America. In fact, to me, A/C in New Zealand means 'always cold.' But seeing a heating/cooling unit makes me feel a bit more civilized again.
This girl was like a giddy child once she had her Australian Open tickets in hand. I haven't squealed that much since, well... that's none of your business. But it's been awhile.
Oh, and no streets in Australia are named after Martin Luther King Jr. But happy MLK Jr. day anyway?
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Enough about me!
Since I've been gone...
my dad got a new job (and now he has more than my mom and I, if that's possible...).
my little sister Sara got a rabbit.
my little brother Sam has gotten so tall!
Nikki has kept on keeping on in her (incredibly challenging) classroom (Go Nik!).
Tera and Zach just bought a FLASH new bed and celebrated a Gator win in the BCS.
my grandparents have migrated to Tucson once again.
my mom decided she wanted to live forever...
Kelli and Justin had a baby! Welcome, Corbin! (see picture above).
Jess and Ty had a baby too! Welcome Ella (and hello to big sister Addie).
the MOs have moved.
the Elders have stayed right where they are.
my brother Tyler started high school this fall!
my friend Jen has happily rekindled an old romance (and consequently has been opening up to her more conservative side...).
my 88-year old great grandmother tried to send me orange salad for Christmas (but customs ate it)!
Auntie Barb has officially given my portion of the beneficiary money to my cousin Ruby.
Grandpa and Marvel have continued charitable work for children.
Don and Jean became grandparents (congratulations!).
Jen and Pete went to London and back.
my friend Ben and I talk more.
my teacher friends and I talk less (I miss you guys!). :(
Dad and Lisa are celebrating their 11th year together!
my cousin Ryan moved all the way across the country.
my cousin Adam has stayed right where he is (good on you, Adam!)
--------------
So, go on... Live your lives! Keep on keepin' on!
(just keep me posted?)
Hawks RULE
True story:
While out shopping yesterday I went to a very cool vintage store that I frequent quite often. The FIRST thing I spotted on sale was an old vintage Iowa State University hat (which made me squeal with delight, literally, out loud). This thing was probably circa 1983. And I wondered who went all the way to America in 1983 to buy an Iowa State University hat only to give it to a vintage shop 23 years later.
And then I thought, 'Well, anyone. Who wants an Iowa State University hat?'
While out shopping yesterday I went to a very cool vintage store that I frequent quite often. The FIRST thing I spotted on sale was an old vintage Iowa State University hat (which made me squeal with delight, literally, out loud). This thing was probably circa 1983. And I wondered who went all the way to America in 1983 to buy an Iowa State University hat only to give it to a vintage shop 23 years later.
And then I thought, 'Well, anyone. Who wants an Iowa State University hat?'
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
The best week?
And as if Polynesian mass wasn't great enough...
It started the Tuesday night after Christmas when I went to the Western Springs speedway just up the road from my house with my flatmate Ian and his buddy (our buddy) Anton. Anton is a cool, cool guy that I've known since I moved in, and he's really fun to hang out with. Anton's cousin was one of the racers, and it was so cool to be there to cheer him on. There were some incredible American racers too, which was fun for me to cheer for. But the coolest part was when Anton said to Ian, "There's Scott's parents" and by Scott's parents he really meant Scott Dixon, the Indy car racer who came in third this year at the 500 (which I was at). He's a Kiwi and one of Anton's good friends. By the end of the night I had actually spoken to them. Which was the coolest. Because I cheered for that Kiwi at the Indy this year...
The next day I met one of Ian and Anton's other friends, Norm. Norm owns a gym here in Auckland and is a pretty damn cool. He knows about everyone in the city, and is very fun to hang out with. He and Anton ride Harleys. Very cool Harleys. They wanted to take Sheen and I on the Harleys, to which we politely obliged. We got to take an hour long ride through Auckland, over the Harbor Bridge, and along the coast line on the back of Anton and Norm's very, very cool Harley bikes. It was breathtaking and amazing fun. Sheena's biker name is Doris. I liked Dorothy, but decided on Gladys instead.
On Saturday before New Years I ate at Orbit restaurant which is on the top level of the Sky Tower. The restaurant rotates, and the 360 view of Auckland as the sun went down was more incredible than I could imagine. I went with Ian's other really cool friend Hamish and his two (very fun) American friends Marty and Sarah, who were in on holiday. We spoke Yankee for a whole night and it was glorious.
New Year's Eve was fabulous. I had to work that night (as someone had to be responsible for feeding and fueling the flash and posh of Ponsonby). But the atmosphere at the restaurant was incredible, and I was so glad that I was there. At midnight, I kissed all of my gay coworkers and I slipped out to catch the fireworks that go off at the Skytower, as SPQR has a fine panoramic view of the city downtown. It was magical. Then, I drank and drank and drank (success) and tried to serve drinks (I failed) and danced and danced with customers (success!). But, even better than that, was the really good looking Kiwi guy who asked me for my phone number...
The week after New Years, Norm was house-sitting for the man who owns the gym that he owns. He invited us (me, my three flatties, Anton, and another friend Troy) over to play tennis on the private courts and swim in the private pool all week. We politely obliged. We played tennis all week at the oldest, most beautiful, gigantic, flash house I have ever seen (imagine an 1860's, deep south plantation home). We had spas in the hot tub, followed by dips in the pool, and terrific bbqs with fish and steak. Norm was an incredible host to all of us (and will be receiving a bottle of very expensive champagne from me for his efforts).
To end the week, Friday the 5th was the opening night for the Cirque de Soliel show, Varekai, in Auckland. Sheena and I got last-minute (and I mean LAST MINUTE) tickets that we bought from Norm, who mentioned he had extras from his gym. But what was cooler is that he had tickets to the cast after party as well. So Norm, his friend Adam, Sheena and I all hob-knobbed (well, Sheena and I stood around and gawked, Norm knew everyone) with some of Auckland's finest, about 1000 of them, and the performers after the show. It was a rockin' late-night party that I'll never forget (thanks to the one blurry picture of Sheena and I that turned out, see above).
But as all good things do, the awesomeness had to come to an end. All of my flatties are back to work this week, and I am back to researching jobs online. It's raining everyday in Auckland, and life has gone on as usual. But two weeks of amazing times I will never forget put a big smile on my face each night as I go to bed...
Monday, January 08, 2007
Pissed off
I'm grumpy today.
It's raining.
And you'd think I'd be happy that I am not working.
But I'm bored.
And you'd think I'd be happy because my FBI background check came back.
But I'm not.
Because after 17 weeks of waiting, I received the same fingerprint card that I sent in. Only it was stamped 'No arrest record' on the back.
Well DUH.
17 weeks for that?
Federal Bureau of Idiots.
It's raining.
And you'd think I'd be happy that I am not working.
But I'm bored.
And you'd think I'd be happy because my FBI background check came back.
But I'm not.
Because after 17 weeks of waiting, I received the same fingerprint card that I sent in. Only it was stamped 'No arrest record' on the back.
Well DUH.
17 weeks for that?
Federal Bureau of Idiots.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Aussie Holiday
For my Auntie, who wants an itinerary for my trip to Australia
(and we always listens to our Auntie)...
Sunday, 14 Jan - Leave AKL 8:30 a.m., Arrive MEL 10:20 a.m.
Spend time in Melbourne shopping, enjoying the sights, out in the nightlife, and catching up with new friends...
Tuesday, 16 Jan - Attend Australian open in Melbourne
Wednesday, 17 Jan - Leave MEL 9:30 a.m., Arrive SYD 10:50 a.m.
**Spend time with my FAVORITE SPQR gay waiter, Aaron, who happens to be (incredibly HOT) living in Sydney to persue his acting career...
Thursday, 18 Jan - Begin tour of East coast of Australia with the Contiki tour group. For a detailed, day-by-day account of where we'll be and what we'll be doing, click here:
http://www.contiki.com/en-NZ/Tours/Australia/Beaches.and.Reefs/Itinerary.htm
Fri, 2 Feb - Leave Cairns 11 p.m., ARRIVE AKL 6:45 a.m. on Sat, 3 Feb.
(and we always listens to our Auntie)...
Sunday, 14 Jan - Leave AKL 8:30 a.m., Arrive MEL 10:20 a.m.
Spend time in Melbourne shopping, enjoying the sights, out in the nightlife, and catching up with new friends...
Tuesday, 16 Jan - Attend Australian open in Melbourne
Wednesday, 17 Jan - Leave MEL 9:30 a.m., Arrive SYD 10:50 a.m.
**Spend time with my FAVORITE SPQR gay waiter, Aaron, who happens to be (incredibly HOT) living in Sydney to persue his acting career...
Thursday, 18 Jan - Begin tour of East coast of Australia with the Contiki tour group. For a detailed, day-by-day account of where we'll be and what we'll be doing, click here:
http://www.contiki.com/en-NZ/Tours/Australia/Beaches.and.Reefs/Itinerary.htm
Fri, 2 Feb - Leave Cairns 11 p.m., ARRIVE AKL 6:45 a.m. on Sat, 3 Feb.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
The New Year
Hmm... let's see what it brings.
Do you remember when you were in college and people would ask you 'What are you going to do when you graduate?" And if you were like me, you were really annoyed at that question because you really didn't know for sure.
Sometimes I feel like that here as well. At home, at work, with friends...
"So, how long have you been here?" (Although I do know the answer to that question...)
"How long are you staying?"
"Do you like it here?" (A pretty broad question)
"What are you going go to do next?
And I know that many of you don't know what I am going to do because I haven't told you yet. So, in case you are wondering what my new year will bring, it's a matter of choice.
As I mentioned before, I am not going to stay for whole year of teaching.
In the past three months I have been offered two jobs through my hiring agency and have been informally encouraged to apply for an open position by the principal at Richmond Road for the 2007 year. For me, though, teaching here for a year is something that I have a hard time committing to. It's just not the right fit for me, and especially not right now. Each day I teach makes me excited to teach in a full classroom again. Just not here, and just not right now.
I looked into staying through one term of full-time teaching this year (commencing in February 2007 and lasting 10 weeks) so that I could immerse myself in a full classroom and have the experience of learning the curriculum, but every job I applied for (33) needed long-term relievers for the entire year, not one term.
I have applied (and am continuing to apply) for teaching jobs in Europe which will start next fall. I have registered my name and information with two highly recommended overseas teacher staffing services. I have also directly applied to schools including The American School in London and The American School in Switzerland. And although I haven't yet, I am seriously considering applying at some American schools (in America) for more unique experiences closer to home. Either way, my current overseas experience paired with two years of classroom work and excellent recommendations (thanks Wendy, Tamara, and Randy!) make me feel very qualified and confident for any job I apply for.
Because I'll have about 7 months to continue to apply and prepare for a teaching job, I have the opportunity and time to leave for a few months to try something else abroad. So, just for fun and giggles, I have applied with Imperial Nannies, which is a high-profile company out of England that places nannies with families all over the world. Again, highly qualified and available immediately, and it pays EXTREMELY well. The only downfall is that I'd only be available for about 5-6 months, which might be too short of a time to suit many families.
Now, in the past, I would have called and called and called the nanny service to find out the status of my file, and would be trying to work my way into a family with the utmost urgency. But this time, I'm sitting back. To be honest, completely honest, I LOVE living in Auckland right now. I'm not going to sweat staying in New Zealand for the next few months, and I would actually welcome the opportunity to do that as much as I would to leave and see more of the world. I LOVE relieving, as the money and experiences are GREAT, and I know I'll have plenty of work on a daily basis. I love, love, love my flatties and my house, I'm making incredible friends and connections, and doing the most amazing things that I could have never dreamed of.
I feel very fortunate that EITHER staying or leaving is going to be a win-win, excellent opportunity for me to have amazing personal experiences as well as the chance to learn and grow professionally in educational, child-filled settings. Because don't both support my entire reason for coming this far in the first place?
New year, schmew year. Bring it on.
Do you remember when you were in college and people would ask you 'What are you going to do when you graduate?" And if you were like me, you were really annoyed at that question because you really didn't know for sure.
Sometimes I feel like that here as well. At home, at work, with friends...
"So, how long have you been here?" (Although I do know the answer to that question...)
"How long are you staying?"
"Do you like it here?" (A pretty broad question)
"What are you going go to do next?
And I know that many of you don't know what I am going to do because I haven't told you yet. So, in case you are wondering what my new year will bring, it's a matter of choice.
As I mentioned before, I am not going to stay for whole year of teaching.
In the past three months I have been offered two jobs through my hiring agency and have been informally encouraged to apply for an open position by the principal at Richmond Road for the 2007 year. For me, though, teaching here for a year is something that I have a hard time committing to. It's just not the right fit for me, and especially not right now. Each day I teach makes me excited to teach in a full classroom again. Just not here, and just not right now.
I looked into staying through one term of full-time teaching this year (commencing in February 2007 and lasting 10 weeks) so that I could immerse myself in a full classroom and have the experience of learning the curriculum, but every job I applied for (33) needed long-term relievers for the entire year, not one term.
I have applied (and am continuing to apply) for teaching jobs in Europe which will start next fall. I have registered my name and information with two highly recommended overseas teacher staffing services. I have also directly applied to schools including The American School in London and The American School in Switzerland. And although I haven't yet, I am seriously considering applying at some American schools (in America) for more unique experiences closer to home. Either way, my current overseas experience paired with two years of classroom work and excellent recommendations (thanks Wendy, Tamara, and Randy!) make me feel very qualified and confident for any job I apply for.
Because I'll have about 7 months to continue to apply and prepare for a teaching job, I have the opportunity and time to leave for a few months to try something else abroad. So, just for fun and giggles, I have applied with Imperial Nannies, which is a high-profile company out of England that places nannies with families all over the world. Again, highly qualified and available immediately, and it pays EXTREMELY well. The only downfall is that I'd only be available for about 5-6 months, which might be too short of a time to suit many families.
Now, in the past, I would have called and called and called the nanny service to find out the status of my file, and would be trying to work my way into a family with the utmost urgency. But this time, I'm sitting back. To be honest, completely honest, I LOVE living in Auckland right now. I'm not going to sweat staying in New Zealand for the next few months, and I would actually welcome the opportunity to do that as much as I would to leave and see more of the world. I LOVE relieving, as the money and experiences are GREAT, and I know I'll have plenty of work on a daily basis. I love, love, love my flatties and my house, I'm making incredible friends and connections, and doing the most amazing things that I could have never dreamed of.
I feel very fortunate that EITHER staying or leaving is going to be a win-win, excellent opportunity for me to have amazing personal experiences as well as the chance to learn and grow professionally in educational, child-filled settings. Because don't both support my entire reason for coming this far in the first place?
New year, schmew year. Bring it on.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
A Kiwi Christmas
Christmas here is weird. Er, I mean different...
For starters, it's warm.
Nobody puts lights on their houses.
TV programming has NO commercials (on any station - it's not allowed).
They set fire to the christmas pudding.
When you sit down at the table your plate has a Christmas cracker (not an eating cracker, but a toy cracker present). Before eating, everyone joins hands and pops thier Christmas cracker to reveal a surprise inside. Mine had glue, which I traded for Damien's tweezers.
Boxing Day (the 26th) is a 'national statutory holiday', meaning that everyone doesn't work. And if you do, you get paid extra. Because it's a national statutory holiday.
Oh, and I think the queen needs a new stylist. During this year's Christmas message, she was wearing a lime green suit.
For starters, it's warm.
Nobody puts lights on their houses.
TV programming has NO commercials (on any station - it's not allowed).
They set fire to the christmas pudding.
When you sit down at the table your plate has a Christmas cracker (not an eating cracker, but a toy cracker present). Before eating, everyone joins hands and pops thier Christmas cracker to reveal a surprise inside. Mine had glue, which I traded for Damien's tweezers.
Boxing Day (the 26th) is a 'national statutory holiday', meaning that everyone doesn't work. And if you do, you get paid extra. Because it's a national statutory holiday.
Oh, and I think the queen needs a new stylist. During this year's Christmas message, she was wearing a lime green suit.
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