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...
I love reading your posts. I don't know your grandparents, but they're amazing!! The bond you have with them is a real blessing. You & your grandma look like kindred spirits. :)
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