We took an unforgettable trip around the north of the South Island. It would really take WAY TOO LONG to write about every single thing we did, so instead, I've simply made an album.
Because blogger is being difficult and my pictures are taking hours/days to upload, I've decided to just add a link which will take you to a facebook album titled South Island Memories. I know a blue-underlined link doesn't look as appealing as colourful pictures, but it will make my life much simpler.
A few words:
Taking this trip with my grandparents will be one of those precious memories stored in large corner of my heart. It was a time of relaxation, laughter, deep talks, and close bonding. I couldn't be more blessed. God has given us unbelievably special grandparents. Yes, there are posted pictures, but they really do little justice to the true joy of our trip- being together in health. Definitely, a trip of a life-time!!
To view some of our adventure, simply click the link, and then click through the myriad of pics!
By the way, we experienced two earthquakes while on this trip- both in Christchurch. The one was a 5.1 (bed was shaking and room was swaying) and the second was a 3.9 (loud noise and rumbling). How Grandpa managed to sleep through the first one is beyond me :)!
Enjoy!
(I think you have to copy and paste this link into your browser because it's not turning blue.)
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=268092&id=505370958&l=862373c082
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Grandparents- Day 3,4&5 (Ten O'Clock Cookie, Castle Point and Church)
On day three (Friday), we decided to have a 'home' day where we simply relaxed and enjoyed the cottage and each other. Grandma and Grandpa needed a rest after the arduous labour we put them through on Thursday!
The weather was beautiful, so we sat outside and read in the sunshine. Grandpa enjoyed reading a book written about the start of the Reformed Church and Ponatahi Christian School. It gave him some more background about the community we live in and enjoy.
*Note about the following picture: We did not force our dear grandparents to sit on the hard wooden plank during coffee time. This was taken early in the morning. So much for sleeping in- these two young folk were up early and decided to begin soaking in the morning rays while Sam and I were still sound asleep!
Isn't Skype wonderful? Grandma and Grandpa were only in NZ for a little while before they were able to talk to their good friends, the Herfsts, online! They shared weather reports and discussed how the farm was doing back in Canada (the Herfsts are house-sitting for them).
Life doesn't stop when you get visitors, so out we went to do some grocery shopping. I love it that Grandma and Grandpa don't mind joining us on such mundane trips. To them it was exciting to compare NZ and Canadian prices. Grandpa and Sam spent some time in the electronic shop, while Grandma and I wandered around Countdown, my favourite grocery store in NZ. Grandma was astounded at the high prices of certain products (particularly the bacon, bread, coffee and eggs), but she was also pleasantly surprised to see some lower prices (leeks, yogurt and kiwis).
We couldn't go to Masterton (a large town about 15 minutes away from us) without stopping by the Ten O'Clock Cookie Company! This is a specialty coffee shop owned by some of our friends. Everything they serve is delicious- especially their authentic NZ meat pies and Dutch custard squares. It was obviously Grandpa's nap-time, as he soon conked out on the leather Dutch couches in the coffee shop!
Friday night we were invited to have dinner with the Bosch family- the ones who hosted Sam and I when we first arrived in NZ. They truly are a wonderful family and open their home to anyone that crosses their path. Even though they have plenty of their own children, they still make time to invite visitors over and often host people for months at a time. I made dessert for the evening: a modified version of a cake my Mom often bakes. I have to be creative in NZ because some of the key ingredients are not available here- most notably, Cool Whip! But who's complaining? Real whip cream isn't that bad of a substitute :). Having fresh NZ fruit on top really makes this a refreshing, summery dessert.
We enjoyed a tour around the Bosch's farm while the sun was setting. I wish I had brought our camera because it was breathtaking. I would have loved to take a video of Grandpa and Mr. Bosch comparing old farm equipment and reminiscing about antiquated engines, tractor models and farming techniques. They looked so adorable walking down the lane together, surrounded by dairy cows and green hills.
Saturday was another day for adventure. Although it was quite windy, we decided to brave the coast of Castle Point. We set out for the drive to the beach and Grandma and Grandpa soaked up the picturesque, NZ hills covered in white sheep.
Sam managed to get our car stuck in the sand. We all climbed out of the car and tried to push, while Sam reversed the car, stinking up the clutch in the process. Finally,thanks to a scruffy looking man and his rover, we were able to get pulled out. Grandpa commented, "See?! The guys who look the scariest are usually the nicest!"
The wind was mighty strong; sand kept stinging our legs as it blew across the beach, so we found a protected spot between some sand hills, and there we set up our beach chairs and blankets. I had made a massive pasta and tuna salad which we quickly devoured. We relaxed/snoozed for a bit, trying to get our energy back after the intense workout pushing the car!
Soon we were up and at it again, exploring the beach and climbing dangerously steep rocks. After we had read the "Danger" signs warning us of potential hazards, Grandma, Sam and I decided it was worth the view. Once at the top, it felt like the wind was close to blowing us off of the rocks into the ocean, but thankfully we were clinging on to each other and managed to stabilize ourselves! Grandma was able to experience firsthand how powerful the wind can be in NZ.
On our way home from the beach, we stopped at some random sheep farm to eat a few snacks. We ended up meeting the farmer. Though surprised to see us on his private property, he was kind enough to discuss farm-related topics with Grandpa and let us watch him immunize his sheep.
Grandpa "shouted" (payed for) dinner that night- fish and chips! It's a real Kiwi meal. The fish here is fresh and delicious, the chips greasy, salty and tasty like all chips should be. Nothing healthy about this meal!
Sunday we heard two sermons from our pastor and enjoyed a much needed day of rest. Grandma and Grandpa were warmly welcomed by the people in the church and felt at home immediately. I've mentioned it before, but I'll do it again- we love the hospitality and warmth in our church community. I think Grandma and Grandpa were able to also experience this and they already know quite a few people in the church and have began making all the family connections- Dutch Bingo at its best! After some homemade burgers on the bbq, we spent the afternoon reading and napping before our evening service.
And that's all for these three days. Next post will be on our South Island trip! Stay tuned...
The weather was beautiful, so we sat outside and read in the sunshine. Grandpa enjoyed reading a book written about the start of the Reformed Church and Ponatahi Christian School. It gave him some more background about the community we live in and enjoy.
*Note about the following picture: We did not force our dear grandparents to sit on the hard wooden plank during coffee time. This was taken early in the morning. So much for sleeping in- these two young folk were up early and decided to begin soaking in the morning rays while Sam and I were still sound asleep!
Isn't Skype wonderful? Grandma and Grandpa were only in NZ for a little while before they were able to talk to their good friends, the Herfsts, online! They shared weather reports and discussed how the farm was doing back in Canada (the Herfsts are house-sitting for them).
Life doesn't stop when you get visitors, so out we went to do some grocery shopping. I love it that Grandma and Grandpa don't mind joining us on such mundane trips. To them it was exciting to compare NZ and Canadian prices. Grandpa and Sam spent some time in the electronic shop, while Grandma and I wandered around Countdown, my favourite grocery store in NZ. Grandma was astounded at the high prices of certain products (particularly the bacon, bread, coffee and eggs), but she was also pleasantly surprised to see some lower prices (leeks, yogurt and kiwis).
We couldn't go to Masterton (a large town about 15 minutes away from us) without stopping by the Ten O'Clock Cookie Company! This is a specialty coffee shop owned by some of our friends. Everything they serve is delicious- especially their authentic NZ meat pies and Dutch custard squares. It was obviously Grandpa's nap-time, as he soon conked out on the leather Dutch couches in the coffee shop!
Friday night we were invited to have dinner with the Bosch family- the ones who hosted Sam and I when we first arrived in NZ. They truly are a wonderful family and open their home to anyone that crosses their path. Even though they have plenty of their own children, they still make time to invite visitors over and often host people for months at a time. I made dessert for the evening: a modified version of a cake my Mom often bakes. I have to be creative in NZ because some of the key ingredients are not available here- most notably, Cool Whip! But who's complaining? Real whip cream isn't that bad of a substitute :). Having fresh NZ fruit on top really makes this a refreshing, summery dessert.
We enjoyed a tour around the Bosch's farm while the sun was setting. I wish I had brought our camera because it was breathtaking. I would have loved to take a video of Grandpa and Mr. Bosch comparing old farm equipment and reminiscing about antiquated engines, tractor models and farming techniques. They looked so adorable walking down the lane together, surrounded by dairy cows and green hills.
Saturday was another day for adventure. Although it was quite windy, we decided to brave the coast of Castle Point. We set out for the drive to the beach and Grandma and Grandpa soaked up the picturesque, NZ hills covered in white sheep.
Sam managed to get our car stuck in the sand. We all climbed out of the car and tried to push, while Sam reversed the car, stinking up the clutch in the process. Finally,thanks to a scruffy looking man and his rover, we were able to get pulled out. Grandpa commented, "See?! The guys who look the scariest are usually the nicest!"
The wind was mighty strong; sand kept stinging our legs as it blew across the beach, so we found a protected spot between some sand hills, and there we set up our beach chairs and blankets. I had made a massive pasta and tuna salad which we quickly devoured. We relaxed/snoozed for a bit, trying to get our energy back after the intense workout pushing the car!
Soon we were up and at it again, exploring the beach and climbing dangerously steep rocks. After we had read the "Danger" signs warning us of potential hazards, Grandma, Sam and I decided it was worth the view. Once at the top, it felt like the wind was close to blowing us off of the rocks into the ocean, but thankfully we were clinging on to each other and managed to stabilize ourselves! Grandma was able to experience firsthand how powerful the wind can be in NZ.
On our way home from the beach, we stopped at some random sheep farm to eat a few snacks. We ended up meeting the farmer. Though surprised to see us on his private property, he was kind enough to discuss farm-related topics with Grandpa and let us watch him immunize his sheep.
Grandpa "shouted" (payed for) dinner that night- fish and chips! It's a real Kiwi meal. The fish here is fresh and delicious, the chips greasy, salty and tasty like all chips should be. Nothing healthy about this meal!
Sunday we heard two sermons from our pastor and enjoyed a much needed day of rest. Grandma and Grandpa were warmly welcomed by the people in the church and felt at home immediately. I've mentioned it before, but I'll do it again- we love the hospitality and warmth in our church community. I think Grandma and Grandpa were able to also experience this and they already know quite a few people in the church and have began making all the family connections- Dutch Bingo at its best! After some homemade burgers on the bbq, we spent the afternoon reading and napping before our evening service.
And that's all for these three days. Next post will be on our South Island trip! Stay tuned...
Friday, January 21, 2011
Grandparents- Day 1&2 (Travel, Cape Palliser)
I've decided its much to overwhelming to fit everything into one post. So, instead, I will tackle a couple of days at a time.
We picked Grandma and Grandpa up on a Wednesday afternoon from Wellington airport. They looked so dapper and chirper, I couldn't believe they had just traveled over 24 hours across the world! I actually got butterflies in my stomach, I was so nervous/excited to see them!! They said the flights were better than they thought, and they don't know why everyone warned them about the trip because it was "just fine!" Talk about energetic and tough grandparents! They were impressed with the Kiwi service on Air New Zealand- free wine, creamy yogurt and they sweetest fruit they have had in a long time.
We travelled over the Rimutaka hills, back to our little home in Carterton. Of course, Grandma and Grandpa needed a refresher, so out came the coffee and homebaked apple cake with oozy caramel sauce...mmmmm... We took our time catching up, and we still are a week later!
They were eager to see our little town, church and school, so we went for a drive. We stopped by my messy classroom and office (still re-arranging for this upcoming school year) and spent time talking to other teachers and the pastor. Some of my students were playing at the school as well, and Sam and I took time to try out one of their new "skateboards"- not what it is called, but I can't remember the real name. Whatever it is, every kid in NZ is begging their parents for one!
Wednesday night we had a vegetable stir fry with rice/noodles and a crunchy peanut sauce. My mom sent a package of home videos for us, and we watched parts of them, basking in nostalgia. After more chatting and drinking of red wine in the cozy, dim-lit cottage, we headed off to bed. Thankfully, Grandma and Grandpa slept well!
Thursday morning was glorious- sunshine and warmth! Grandma and Grandpa found it difficult to believe they had just left the frigid province of Ontario and now were in a tropical NZ!
Grandma began some serious unpacking and we were spoiled rotten with pounds of droppies and chocolates! Mom also sent Leah a book about Christian life in the Tudor time period -I think its titled Caught in the Web. She's already drinking it up. I can't believe how fast that girl reads- she's usually finished her first library book an hour and half after we get home!
We were a little over exuberant about showing Grandma and Grandpa NZ. We decided to take them out to Cape Palliser to see the Pinnacle Rocks and the fur seals. It was a long day and they were tired, but still thoroughly enjoyed it as is evident in the following pictures!
Drive to Pinnacle Rocks:
We stopped at a ritzy wine town called Martinborough for a few pictures of some cute homes and to show Grandma and Grandpa where Sam had installed fireplaces.
Grandma noticing that the dandelions are a little different in NZ:
Picnic before the trek:
The trek through a dry riverbed up to Pinnacle Rocks:
I almost had a heart attack watching my grandparents climb steep, gravel inclines and bound over large, round, river stones! The walk went well for the first bit, but it was much longer than we expected. Grandpa and I stayed back and relaxed on an old log, talking about the past, future and life in general, while Sam and Grandma braved out on their own. They eventually came to the Pinnacle Rocks- stunning! Grandpa and I were thankful they took lots of pictures so that we could see how truly majestic they are!
I'm frustrated. It takes WAY TOO LONG for pictures to load onto blogspot!!!!!!!!! Maybe I am doing something wrong- I dunno. But it kinda saps the joy outta sharing experiences with you all!
Plod on I will...
Lighthouse and Fur Seals:
On our way home we stopped by a unique town on the coast. Most of the men are fishermen, and their fishing boats are attached to old, rusty, sea-salt-eaten bulldozers! It's quite a sight to see this equipment lined along the beach. As you'll notice, some proud owners lovingly take the time to paint, decorate and show-off their machines.
We were tired after this adventure! Poor Grandma and Grandpa had a long day. Don't worry, we didn't put them through this much agony the next day :)!
After all that fun, we ended the night with a huge steak and fish dinner! Don't ask where we found the energy to make up a three course meal- salad, homemade garlic bread, fresh fish sprinkled with squeezed lemon juice and dill, barbecued steak, garlic and cheese mashed potatoes, fresh silver-beet (similar to spinach, but a little less bitter), custard, yogurt, fresh blueberries and raspberries and NZ wine. YUM!
We slept soundly :)
I made through this post without pulling my hair out. Success! I like including too many pictures which seems to make the posting process endless. Oh well, I hope you enjoyed the final product!
Now I am heading back to the couch to enjoy some reading with Grandma, Grandpa and my 27 year old hubby, Sam! Yes, it was his birthday yesterday and guess who completely forgot about it?! It wasn't just his wife! He also forgot about his own special day. Talk about embarrassing to find out its your husband's birthday on facebook :)! We were just too busy having fun with our grandparents to remember (lame excuse, I know).
Cheerio!
We picked Grandma and Grandpa up on a Wednesday afternoon from Wellington airport. They looked so dapper and chirper, I couldn't believe they had just traveled over 24 hours across the world! I actually got butterflies in my stomach, I was so nervous/excited to see them!! They said the flights were better than they thought, and they don't know why everyone warned them about the trip because it was "just fine!" Talk about energetic and tough grandparents! They were impressed with the Kiwi service on Air New Zealand- free wine, creamy yogurt and they sweetest fruit they have had in a long time.
We travelled over the Rimutaka hills, back to our little home in Carterton. Of course, Grandma and Grandpa needed a refresher, so out came the coffee and homebaked apple cake with oozy caramel sauce...mmmmm... We took our time catching up, and we still are a week later!
They were eager to see our little town, church and school, so we went for a drive. We stopped by my messy classroom and office (still re-arranging for this upcoming school year) and spent time talking to other teachers and the pastor. Some of my students were playing at the school as well, and Sam and I took time to try out one of their new "skateboards"- not what it is called, but I can't remember the real name. Whatever it is, every kid in NZ is begging their parents for one!
Wednesday night we had a vegetable stir fry with rice/noodles and a crunchy peanut sauce. My mom sent a package of home videos for us, and we watched parts of them, basking in nostalgia. After more chatting and drinking of red wine in the cozy, dim-lit cottage, we headed off to bed. Thankfully, Grandma and Grandpa slept well!
Thursday morning was glorious- sunshine and warmth! Grandma and Grandpa found it difficult to believe they had just left the frigid province of Ontario and now were in a tropical NZ!
Grandma began some serious unpacking and we were spoiled rotten with pounds of droppies and chocolates! Mom also sent Leah a book about Christian life in the Tudor time period -I think its titled Caught in the Web. She's already drinking it up. I can't believe how fast that girl reads- she's usually finished her first library book an hour and half after we get home!
We were a little over exuberant about showing Grandma and Grandpa NZ. We decided to take them out to Cape Palliser to see the Pinnacle Rocks and the fur seals. It was a long day and they were tired, but still thoroughly enjoyed it as is evident in the following pictures!
Drive to Pinnacle Rocks:
We stopped at a ritzy wine town called Martinborough for a few pictures of some cute homes and to show Grandma and Grandpa where Sam had installed fireplaces.
Grandma noticing that the dandelions are a little different in NZ:
Picnic before the trek:
The trek through a dry riverbed up to Pinnacle Rocks:
I almost had a heart attack watching my grandparents climb steep, gravel inclines and bound over large, round, river stones! The walk went well for the first bit, but it was much longer than we expected. Grandpa and I stayed back and relaxed on an old log, talking about the past, future and life in general, while Sam and Grandma braved out on their own. They eventually came to the Pinnacle Rocks- stunning! Grandpa and I were thankful they took lots of pictures so that we could see how truly majestic they are!
I'm frustrated. It takes WAY TOO LONG for pictures to load onto blogspot!!!!!!!!! Maybe I am doing something wrong- I dunno. But it kinda saps the joy outta sharing experiences with you all!
Plod on I will...
Lighthouse and Fur Seals:
On our way home we stopped by a unique town on the coast. Most of the men are fishermen, and their fishing boats are attached to old, rusty, sea-salt-eaten bulldozers! It's quite a sight to see this equipment lined along the beach. As you'll notice, some proud owners lovingly take the time to paint, decorate and show-off their machines.
We were tired after this adventure! Poor Grandma and Grandpa had a long day. Don't worry, we didn't put them through this much agony the next day :)!
After all that fun, we ended the night with a huge steak and fish dinner! Don't ask where we found the energy to make up a three course meal- salad, homemade garlic bread, fresh fish sprinkled with squeezed lemon juice and dill, barbecued steak, garlic and cheese mashed potatoes, fresh silver-beet (similar to spinach, but a little less bitter), custard, yogurt, fresh blueberries and raspberries and NZ wine. YUM!
We slept soundly :)
I made through this post without pulling my hair out. Success! I like including too many pictures which seems to make the posting process endless. Oh well, I hope you enjoyed the final product!
Now I am heading back to the couch to enjoy some reading with Grandma, Grandpa and my 27 year old hubby, Sam! Yes, it was his birthday yesterday and guess who completely forgot about it?! It wasn't just his wife! He also forgot about his own special day. Talk about embarrassing to find out its your husband's birthday on facebook :)! We were just too busy having fun with our grandparents to remember (lame excuse, I know).
Cheerio!
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