Fortnight of Firsts

So it has been more than a fortnight, but Kiwi’s use the term all the time and I just had to pull it out for fun.

Not a whole bunch has happened if I look back on the last few weeks, which means I’m probably working too much. Nonetheless, I had my first earthquake! A 4.6 while I was playing X-box at the office, so it didn’t even register with me for about 15 seconds at which point when I asked the guy I was playing with if we just had an earthquake. He response was yes, and then he swiftly killed me for my lack of concentration.

Actually with a bit a thought, lots have happened. Jessie and Julie from Austin visited for many nights of fun, a four-day trip to Queenstown, climbing mountains, BBQ, and 11 PM sunsets! (Pictures coming after Xmas)

That reminds me, my camera is fixed! (Like finding out a pet is going to pull through surgery) Sweetness, thanks to kiwi get it done attitude. Nikon here actually re-soldered a connection. I have to assume I would have been told to replace well before soldering ever happened back stateside.

I got my tickets for my trip to Europe in July and the leave without a blink. (July 1 to August 5) As it turns out my Dad and step-mom will be in Italy during that time so I’ll meet them there, as I probably won’t be back in the states for another year. On the way back I’ll got four days in Dubai to see my first of the Middle East, yet this is a very westernised city – it should still be a ball.

I’ve been terrible about updating the blog as well as returning email… apologies to all waiting for email (emails stretching back 2 months!) but it’s happening over the break – better late than never.

So I’m bolting from work in a couple hours to cruise down to the Malboro Sounds and join some Enlgish friends for a couple of days sitting in a cabin amongst Fjords for a great view and some relaxation!

Merry Christmas to all! I’ll be toasting you all with sunsets at 11, flip-flops, and 80-degree warmth wishing you all the best!