Tara and I had a very pleasant trip to Dunedin for the Christmas holiday. On day one we walked to the Cadbury factory and took a tour. During the tour we were sprayed by chocolate- specifically a ton of hot liquid chocolate pouring out in front of us in a matter of moments. The tour ends in a gift shop where all manner of chocolate were on sale (at a fraction of retail). We have some on hand- for emergency rations of course! From the factory we went to a nearby chinese garden. It is a beautiful small oasis in the heart of Dunedin. The walk home was long. We stopped briefly by the Speight's brewery. There were no tours on Christmas eve, but we bought one of their well-known cookbooks and a T-shirt for me. We would return later. We walked by St. Joseph's Cathedral (uphill) and then got supper on the way home.
Our room at the Comfort Inn was cozy and had a fine wee kitchenette which was well-stocked with tea, coffee and even a couple of biscuits.
Christmas began with mass at St. Joseph's Cathedral. Children were invited to come up at the homily and show their Christmas presents to the congregation and help illustrate what is essential to Christmas- the celebration of the birth of Jesus.
There were only five restaurants open, but we found The Huntsman open and serving a marvelous Christmas feast. We felt we were at a family home for the holiday. Our dinner needs were met with takeaway from the convenience store by our motel. They had everything we could want in fast food. We drove to the Otaga peninsula and saw albatrosses. Unfortunately, they saw me and I was splattered, but not with chocolate.
Monday we took a train trip over the Taieri Gorge. This was a half-day trip with impressive bridges, tunnels and scenery. The morning was beautiful and cool, but by our return it was quite warm. So off to Speight's brewery for a cool tour, followed by a liberal tasting of their wares.
Our last day included trips to Larnach Castle and gardens, Penguin Place and a pleasant drive home. More details to follow, but I must rest before our trip to Christchurch.
Cheers.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
On the town
I have yet to tire of the food selection in the Southland of New Zealand. Two nights ago, Tara and I went to H.M.S. Kings for supper. This was our first visit to this restaurantwhich features a variety of fish. Tara had Blue Cod- as we often do. I had the special- Monk fish, wrapped in bacon on seasoned potato wedges. I cannot recall if I've ever had Monk fish. It was meaty and quite good. I had a glass of Hawke's Bay Chardonnay. Tara was pleased with her cod. For dessert, we split a three-scoop sorbet (tart lemon, lime and raspberry).
After supper we went to Queen's Park for Christmas carols. This is an annual event, coordinated by the Y.M.C.A. with a band on the rotunda and a group leading several traditional carols. Families bring chairs. Children have balloons and Southland flags and all have candles. We chatted with a man we met at Tara's church and a lady we know from the "Y". It is nice to be able to recognize people in the community after less than two months. The songs put us in the Christmas spirit- even if it stayed light until after ten p.m.
Tonight, Tara was very brave. I noticed that at the Bombay Palace restaurant, all curry dishes are $12 (NZ) on Wednesday. Our last experience with Indian food, years ago in Washington D.C., still burns bright in our memory. Tara must have said no at least three times (I felt compelled to tease her about going). Later, after observing many people going in, she volunteered to try it. We both had a spinach curry- mine lamb and medium heat, hers beef and mild. I liked mine and would probably go with hot next time. I'll be having most of Tara's for lunch- not her favorite.
Tomorrow is movie/date night. Last week I got my movie loyalty card- yay! I also got my library card and am limited to fifty items at a time!
After supper we went to Queen's Park for Christmas carols. This is an annual event, coordinated by the Y.M.C.A. with a band on the rotunda and a group leading several traditional carols. Families bring chairs. Children have balloons and Southland flags and all have candles. We chatted with a man we met at Tara's church and a lady we know from the "Y". It is nice to be able to recognize people in the community after less than two months. The songs put us in the Christmas spirit- even if it stayed light until after ten p.m.
Tonight, Tara was very brave. I noticed that at the Bombay Palace restaurant, all curry dishes are $12 (NZ) on Wednesday. Our last experience with Indian food, years ago in Washington D.C., still burns bright in our memory. Tara must have said no at least three times (I felt compelled to tease her about going). Later, after observing many people going in, she volunteered to try it. We both had a spinach curry- mine lamb and medium heat, hers beef and mild. I liked mine and would probably go with hot next time. I'll be having most of Tara's for lunch- not her favorite.
Tomorrow is movie/date night. Last week I got my movie loyalty card- yay! I also got my library card and am limited to fifty items at a time!
Monday, December 5, 2011
Settling in
In our flat, we were twenty meters from a sheep ranch. Now, having moved to a rental house, we are a block away. Tara prepared two new dishes tonight- lamb and pumpkin. They were both very tasty. I have not reviewed nutritional info on lamb versus other options. The availability of lamb has put some additional variety in our menus. We also have seafood in abundance, so there is more than just red meat.
Three days a week, Tara and I go to the YMCA. This is starting to help with strengthening and aerobic capacity, but it is still early days as we say. We ride bikes once or twice a week- not a lot, but fifty times more often than last year. I also get to walk to work which is only a block away.
I get four-day weekends off for Christmas and New Year's. We try to use the weekends to check out southern New Zealand, but sometimes just rest at home instead. We now have phone, internet and satellite T.V., but willingly leave these behind for outdoor activities.
Three days a week, Tara and I go to the YMCA. This is starting to help with strengthening and aerobic capacity, but it is still early days as we say. We ride bikes once or twice a week- not a lot, but fifty times more often than last year. I also get to walk to work which is only a block away.
I get four-day weekends off for Christmas and New Year's. We try to use the weekends to check out southern New Zealand, but sometimes just rest at home instead. We now have phone, internet and satellite T.V., but willingly leave these behind for outdoor activities.
Sounding off about Milford Trip
Tara and I recently visited Milford Sound (see recent pictures) for the weekend. Google maps estimated travel time at three hours and twenty-four minute from Invercargill, but was uncharacteristically off by over half an hour. Tara drove us up through a very pretty part of the country. We saw the ocean, lakes, rivers and mountains, but waited until the return trip to take most of the pictures on the way. Thanks to some good driving and an hour of time for contingencies, we arrived with five to ten minutes until the cruise ship boarded.
Fortunately for us, the weather report was not quite right. It rained fairly little during the day on Saturday and not at all on Sunday. Going into Milford Sound we saw snow on the ground, even though this month marks the beginning of summer as reckoned by most n New Zealand. We had to pass through a one-lane tunnel. The signal is on from nine a.m. until six p.m. (which meant that we had to play chicken in an over one kilometer tunnel to leave early on Sunday). Many parts of the road narrow to one lane including most bridges. Many visitors come to this area and tragically some get disoriented and drive on the wrong side of the road. To lessen this, the lanes are marked with arrows and signs remind people to keep left.
We took an almost three-hour cruise (including a stop at a floating nature center) over lunch. There was a nice buffet on board at the start of the trip. I liked the lamb sausage. We get more lamb here than we did in the USA. Milford Sound gets 700 cm. (seven meters) of rainfall a year, but it had been relatively dry, so there were fewer waterfalls in view. The wind picked up and limited how far we could go. I have yet to see penguins,but two popped up briefly. Most left about a week earlier. The mountains and waterfalls were beautiful- see pictures as words are inadequate.
We stayed overnight at Milford Lodge. We had to book three weeks ahead. It was kind of like camping. There were shared bathrooms with showers at the end of a covered walkway. The rooms were very basic, clean and comfortable. There is a kitchen and small store on site. To get a prepared meal, we went up the road to the Blue Duck pub which serves meals from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. I had the special...wait for it...lamb burger and tomato basil soup with a draft Monteith's original. They even had ESPN via satellite- talk about roughing it. With no T.V., we hit the hay at seven p.m. We were awakened by heavy rains and wind that shook the wooden floors.
Sunday was cool and brisk. The sky was blue. We awoke early and made our way home.
Suggestions if you go to Milford Sound:
Bug repellant- little black bugs bite (bites itch for days)
Jacket and rain gear
Credit card or cash- debit cards do not work
A chilly bin (cooler) to bring some food along
Camera (I like to have a waterproof camera, and carry a disposable for this purpose)
Drive carefully and allow extra time (traffic in some places, photo stops)
Good walking shoes- I love my Keen sandals, waterproof with good grip and comfortable from the get go
Coming home, we stopped to walk a little over an hour on the Kepler Trek. The whole trek is over 60 km. New Zealand has numerous paths to hike on and we are just starting to take advantage of them. I got a book to help me identify native and indigenous birds. It is great to get close enough for a good photo, or even better, video with song. I'm not great at this yet, but it is funny to know a bird's name, sometimes its song and even behavior/personality.
Fortunately for us, the weather report was not quite right. It rained fairly little during the day on Saturday and not at all on Sunday. Going into Milford Sound we saw snow on the ground, even though this month marks the beginning of summer as reckoned by most n New Zealand. We had to pass through a one-lane tunnel. The signal is on from nine a.m. until six p.m. (which meant that we had to play chicken in an over one kilometer tunnel to leave early on Sunday). Many parts of the road narrow to one lane including most bridges. Many visitors come to this area and tragically some get disoriented and drive on the wrong side of the road. To lessen this, the lanes are marked with arrows and signs remind people to keep left.
We took an almost three-hour cruise (including a stop at a floating nature center) over lunch. There was a nice buffet on board at the start of the trip. I liked the lamb sausage. We get more lamb here than we did in the USA. Milford Sound gets 700 cm. (seven meters) of rainfall a year, but it had been relatively dry, so there were fewer waterfalls in view. The wind picked up and limited how far we could go. I have yet to see penguins,but two popped up briefly. Most left about a week earlier. The mountains and waterfalls were beautiful- see pictures as words are inadequate.
We stayed overnight at Milford Lodge. We had to book three weeks ahead. It was kind of like camping. There were shared bathrooms with showers at the end of a covered walkway. The rooms were very basic, clean and comfortable. There is a kitchen and small store on site. To get a prepared meal, we went up the road to the Blue Duck pub which serves meals from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. I had the special...wait for it...lamb burger and tomato basil soup with a draft Monteith's original. They even had ESPN via satellite- talk about roughing it. With no T.V., we hit the hay at seven p.m. We were awakened by heavy rains and wind that shook the wooden floors.
Sunday was cool and brisk. The sky was blue. We awoke early and made our way home.
Suggestions if you go to Milford Sound:
Bug repellant- little black bugs bite (bites itch for days)
Jacket and rain gear
Credit card or cash- debit cards do not work
A chilly bin (cooler) to bring some food along
Camera (I like to have a waterproof camera, and carry a disposable for this purpose)
Drive carefully and allow extra time (traffic in some places, photo stops)
Good walking shoes- I love my Keen sandals, waterproof with good grip and comfortable from the get go
Coming home, we stopped to walk a little over an hour on the Kepler Trek. The whole trek is over 60 km. New Zealand has numerous paths to hike on and we are just starting to take advantage of them. I got a book to help me identify native and indigenous birds. It is great to get close enough for a good photo, or even better, video with song. I'm not great at this yet, but it is funny to know a bird's name, sometimes its song and even behavior/personality.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
Stewart Island
Tara and I returned yesterday from a weekend trip to Stewart Island. The day before we left was a rare day in which both flights and ferry passage to the island were halted due to over 110 kpm winds which also caused Invercargill's motorcycle race, The Munro Challenge, to be cancelled.
We were glad we flew, although the flight over had some stomach jolting dips. Later we learned the ferry ride was delayed and left many passengers one plate shy of a buffet. New Zealand has a number of endemic species. Islands offer some protection against predators. Some of the islands, like Ulva Island , have been systematically rid of pest like rats. The result is an environment full of indigenous and imported flora and birds of various colors, sizes and songs.
Stewart Island Lodge is a beautiful place to meet other travelers for "tea and nibbles", rest between trips and tramps, and eat a marvelous breakfast at the start of a new day. Do not plan to sleep in as the Tuis start their three note melody an hour before dawn, and this time of year dawn is before six a.m.
I was able to see well enough to walk down the coast without a flashlight until ten p.m., but needed it continuously after "half ten" (a.k.a. ten-thirty). I did not, however, spot a Kiwi or see the penguins come home to nest- perhaps next time. Meanwhile, I am getting used to my Canon 550-D DSLR and have been able to take some distant and macro photos as well as video. I recently added a 32 gigabyte SDHD card which allows me to capture 4000 high-resolution photos or hours of video (at least at the lower levels of resolution. I just added a directional microphone and look forward to upcoming trips and and an eventual return to Stewart Island.
Only about 400 people inhabit Stewart Island. Around 1985, New Zealand stopped funding public ferry service. Thirty children attend the local school, but must leave the island for secondary education. There are two churches- a shared Presbyterian church and an Anglican church. Tara and I attended the Anglican service had the pleasure of meeting some members of the community. Attendance was lighter than usual as Sir Elton John was in Dunedin for the weekend, drawing many to visit the south island.
The flight home was much smoother. This week we will repack and prepare for our next weekend trip- to Milford Sound
We were glad we flew, although the flight over had some stomach jolting dips. Later we learned the ferry ride was delayed and left many passengers one plate shy of a buffet. New Zealand has a number of endemic species. Islands offer some protection against predators. Some of the islands, like Ulva Island , have been systematically rid of pest like rats. The result is an environment full of indigenous and imported flora and birds of various colors, sizes and songs.
Stewart Island Lodge is a beautiful place to meet other travelers for "tea and nibbles", rest between trips and tramps, and eat a marvelous breakfast at the start of a new day. Do not plan to sleep in as the Tuis start their three note melody an hour before dawn, and this time of year dawn is before six a.m.
I was able to see well enough to walk down the coast without a flashlight until ten p.m., but needed it continuously after "half ten" (a.k.a. ten-thirty). I did not, however, spot a Kiwi or see the penguins come home to nest- perhaps next time. Meanwhile, I am getting used to my Canon 550-D DSLR and have been able to take some distant and macro photos as well as video. I recently added a 32 gigabyte SDHD card which allows me to capture 4000 high-resolution photos or hours of video (at least at the lower levels of resolution. I just added a directional microphone and look forward to upcoming trips and and an eventual return to Stewart Island.
Only about 400 people inhabit Stewart Island. Around 1985, New Zealand stopped funding public ferry service. Thirty children attend the local school, but must leave the island for secondary education. There are two churches- a shared Presbyterian church and an Anglican church. Tara and I attended the Anglican service had the pleasure of meeting some members of the community. Attendance was lighter than usual as Sir Elton John was in Dunedin for the weekend, drawing many to visit the south island.
The flight home was much smoother. This week we will repack and prepare for our next weekend trip- to Milford Sound
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Monday, November 21, 2011
Getting to know you
Six days ago we were preparing for a wine and cheese drop-in for several of my coworkers and their guests and families. We stopped by Martin Street Takeaways for supper. This time I tried their squid rings (spicy, breaded and not as chewy as you might expect) and Tara had a mussel patty which was quite good. The desert, a "chocolate explosion", was less of a hit. It was a deep fried pocket of chocolate sauce and cherries. After eating most of one, I looked like a vampire who had just bitten into a vein of chocolate- running out the corner of my mouth.
Ten other adults and two children came by last Thursday for wine and cheese. One of our neighbors brought some cooked shrimp as well. Many are from the USA but one couple is from Sweden and another from Whales/France. Two couples are here for first time as we are; others had been before. There had not been many other social occasions to meet people working here, and the night was very pleasant.
This past weekend we stayed at home to rest. We did not see the local Santa parade, but half of Invercargill turned out for his. Tara picked up the car we have bought for the year- a 2009 Honda Civic and we located a flat nearby for the rest of the year. I got a haircut downtown. You can actually get a shave if you wish. Now Tara is arranging phone, internet and satellite television for the flat. We will move this week through the 31st. She is also looking into library cards.
We went to dinner with one of the new doctors and his wife two days ago and another doctor/neighbor has invited us for supper tomorrow. We are using the YMCA with some regularity and have started riding bicycles in the neighbourhood. There is are two nice bike trails at the end of the block.
Ten other adults and two children came by last Thursday for wine and cheese. One of our neighbors brought some cooked shrimp as well. Many are from the USA but one couple is from Sweden and another from Whales/France. Two couples are here for first time as we are; others had been before. There had not been many other social occasions to meet people working here, and the night was very pleasant.
This past weekend we stayed at home to rest. We did not see the local Santa parade, but half of Invercargill turned out for his. Tara picked up the car we have bought for the year- a 2009 Honda Civic and we located a flat nearby for the rest of the year. I got a haircut downtown. You can actually get a shave if you wish. Now Tara is arranging phone, internet and satellite television for the flat. We will move this week through the 31st. She is also looking into library cards.
We went to dinner with one of the new doctors and his wife two days ago and another doctor/neighbor has invited us for supper tomorrow. We are using the YMCA with some regularity and have started riding bicycles in the neighbourhood. There is are two nice bike trails at the end of the block.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Monday, November 14, 2011
Food, glorious food!
The weekend just past was very pleasant and included several opportunities for food and drink. Friday, Tara and I went to Invercargill's Speights Ale House. They have several varieties of brew on tap at their location at
38 Dee St Inivercargill. I tried Summit (light, all natural ingredients), Traverse (low carb) and Distinction (malt ale). Tara had ribs and I had a vegetarian stack. Portions were generous and the food was tasty. There was a pleasant ambiance- loved the door to the cooler and wood beams. Service was very courteous and fairly prompt.
For more info: http://www.speights.co.nz
Weather predictions were on the rainy side, so we hedged our bets and drove to Queenstown Saturday, only 2 1/2 hours to the north. Queenstown is beautiful, with a lake surrounded by mountains. It has numerous stores and restaurants and is a playground for adrenaline junkies with hang gliding, jet boats, parasailing and the home of bungy jumping nearby. Our second order of business, after checking our gear at a hotel, was to go to one of the pizzarias recommended upon check-in. Winnies had wood-fired ovens and delicious thin crust pizza reminiscent of pizza in Chicago. A glass of Montieth's original went quite well.
We found a British candy store and got several treats. The grandchildren would love the place! It was only the second time I've had jelly babies of Dr.Who (fourth doctor, Tom Baker) fame. www.remarkablesweetshop.co.nz
For supper we went to the Flame restaurant. Their smaller sirloin was tender and tasty (medium rare). Tara had chicken with servings enough for then and for us to share the next day. Fortunately we had a kitchenette in our room. New Zealand servings of chips (aka french fries) are typically enough for two and always well prepared. A reprise of Speights Summit went well with supper.
Sunday started with yummy leftovers (really). After church we decided to fast until after a jet boat ride. One hour skipping along the lake and river at up to 60 kph did not work up an appetite, but at least it did not kill it. The ride was great fun. The skies were blue, the sun was warm and the air was pleasantly cool and crisp.
www.kjet.co.nz
Three more stops and then we would end our weekend adventure. We went to a travel office and booked two of our next weekend trips (for Stewart Island and Milford Sound). Then off for a second pizza, this time at The Cow. We sat by a warm wood fireplace which was welcome in the cool indoors. The pizza was wonderful. I ate the eleven inch personal pizza with no leftovers accompanied by Monteith's Celtic Red. Tara had spaghetti, which she enjoyed. Finally back to a mall where I saw an establishment which keeps eighty varieties of wine chilled for tasting 1,2, or 4 ounces at a time. You get a glass and a card to dispense wines which are priced by the serving size and cost of the bottle. I selected a Chardonnay, a Riesling and a Pinot Noir for a wine and cheese drop-in later this week.
We were tired and happy on our return. One of our physician neighbours invited us over for supper- a tasty home-prepared Thai meal.
38 Dee St Inivercargill. I tried Summit (light, all natural ingredients), Traverse (low carb) and Distinction (malt ale). Tara had ribs and I had a vegetarian stack. Portions were generous and the food was tasty. There was a pleasant ambiance- loved the door to the cooler and wood beams. Service was very courteous and fairly prompt.
For more info: http://www.speights.co.nz
Weather predictions were on the rainy side, so we hedged our bets and drove to Queenstown Saturday, only 2 1/2 hours to the north. Queenstown is beautiful, with a lake surrounded by mountains. It has numerous stores and restaurants and is a playground for adrenaline junkies with hang gliding, jet boats, parasailing and the home of bungy jumping nearby. Our second order of business, after checking our gear at a hotel, was to go to one of the pizzarias recommended upon check-in. Winnies had wood-fired ovens and delicious thin crust pizza reminiscent of pizza in Chicago. A glass of Montieth's original went quite well.
We found a British candy store and got several treats. The grandchildren would love the place! It was only the second time I've had jelly babies of Dr.Who (fourth doctor, Tom Baker) fame. www.remarkablesweetshop.co.nz
For supper we went to the Flame restaurant. Their smaller sirloin was tender and tasty (medium rare). Tara had chicken with servings enough for then and for us to share the next day. Fortunately we had a kitchenette in our room. New Zealand servings of chips (aka french fries) are typically enough for two and always well prepared. A reprise of Speights Summit went well with supper.
Sunday started with yummy leftovers (really). After church we decided to fast until after a jet boat ride. One hour skipping along the lake and river at up to 60 kph did not work up an appetite, but at least it did not kill it. The ride was great fun. The skies were blue, the sun was warm and the air was pleasantly cool and crisp.
www.kjet.co.nz
Three more stops and then we would end our weekend adventure. We went to a travel office and booked two of our next weekend trips (for Stewart Island and Milford Sound). Then off for a second pizza, this time at The Cow. We sat by a warm wood fireplace which was welcome in the cool indoors. The pizza was wonderful. I ate the eleven inch personal pizza with no leftovers accompanied by Monteith's Celtic Red. Tara had spaghetti, which she enjoyed. Finally back to a mall where I saw an establishment which keeps eighty varieties of wine chilled for tasting 1,2, or 4 ounces at a time. You get a glass and a card to dispense wines which are priced by the serving size and cost of the bottle. I selected a Chardonnay, a Riesling and a Pinot Noir for a wine and cheese drop-in later this week.
We were tired and happy on our return. One of our physician neighbours invited us over for supper- a tasty home-prepared Thai meal.
Monday, November 7, 2011
It's a wonderful day in the neighborhood!
Last week was a typical week for the Tour of Southland- cold, wet and windy. I cannot imagine trying to cycle in the weather we had this weekend. It was also my first weekend on call for the hospital. I was glad the weather was off on a weekend I had to work anyway. More on work later.
Today, in contrast, had some sun and it was actually warm. Ten minutes from our flat there are walking/bike riding trails. One goes through some dense woods and the other is at least an hour loop around a lake. We went part way around the lake, along with walkers, bicyclists, joggers and dogs being walked. The lake had several ducks and beautiful black swans. I took a few pictures, but I will return with the long lens to get closer photographs of the swans.
It is a nice neighborhood. Many houses have flowers, some gardens, and there is even a large field where sheep are raised. We already know the doctors living on either side of us. It feels as if we are settling in a neighborhood, although I know they will move on in a few months, back to their homes.
Tara has found us a car- a pre-owned Honda Civic We will wire money so we can buy it this week. It is a lot of fun driving a stick, especially in a right-hand drive car. Tomorrow we will join the YMCA and take advantage of our civilized schedule. Later in the week, Tara will check out a flat near downtown. I will no longer be able to walk across the street to the hospital, but we will be able to walk downtown including the "Y" , church, parks and shopping.
Today, in contrast, had some sun and it was actually warm. Ten minutes from our flat there are walking/bike riding trails. One goes through some dense woods and the other is at least an hour loop around a lake. We went part way around the lake, along with walkers, bicyclists, joggers and dogs being walked. The lake had several ducks and beautiful black swans. I took a few pictures, but I will return with the long lens to get closer photographs of the swans.
It is a nice neighborhood. Many houses have flowers, some gardens, and there is even a large field where sheep are raised. We already know the doctors living on either side of us. It feels as if we are settling in a neighborhood, although I know they will move on in a few months, back to their homes.
Tara has found us a car- a pre-owned Honda Civic We will wire money so we can buy it this week. It is a lot of fun driving a stick, especially in a right-hand drive car. Tomorrow we will join the YMCA and take advantage of our civilized schedule. Later in the week, Tara will check out a flat near downtown. I will no longer be able to walk across the street to the hospital, but we will be able to walk downtown including the "Y" , church, parks and shopping.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Novembrrrr !
Just past the halfway point in spring, we had a few flakes of snow today in Invercargill. There was some drizzle as I walked home (crossed the street) from hospital. My attempt to shield myself from the rain was thwarted by our typical brisk breezes which promptly inverted my umbrella. Ten centimeters of snow fell in Queenstown. Our high was 9 C (48 F) today. I picked a good weekend to work. At least I can stay indoors.
To be fair, the temperature is projected to rise to 14 C tomorrow and 17 C Sunday. It is also supposed to rain daily for a week.
No worries.
To be fair, the temperature is projected to rise to 14 C tomorrow and 17 C Sunday. It is also supposed to rain daily for a week.
No worries.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
The Catlins
We took our first excursion out of town this weekend. We drove to the Catlins, an area along the east coast of Southland, New Zealand. In our first hour on the road, I believe I saw more sheep than in my entire prior life. Our first stop was at Waipapa Point. There we saw and heard several sea lions. It was a lot more interesting to see them on the beach than in a zoo habitat. Another man got a bit close, but fortunately did not provoke these massive creatures.
We then walked up to the nearby Waipapa Point lighthouse. This is a beautifully restored lighthouse. We were almost alone at the site, save for four to six others until we were ready to leave. That was when a tour bus pulled in as we left.
Next stop, Curio Bay and a large fossil forests on the coast. We were not fortunate enough to see any of the rare yellow-eyed penguins this trip. Nearby, surfers were heading out to enjoy a beautiful day and modest surf.
The highlight of the trip was a visit to a working organic sheep farm. We went on an hour horseback ride at Te Taunga, www.catlinshorsriding.co.nz , near Owaka. The ride was across part of the 1600 acre farm. Our horses had a steep climb up a 140 meter hill overlooking the valley below. There is a spectacular view from the summit of the meeting of three bodies of water. The Owaka and Catlin rivers meet the Pacific at Pounawea, as the Maori call it. At the top our horses were a bit put off by sustained 60 kph winds. It is a beautiful area and we plan a longer return visit with a longer morning ride on the beach.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Starry, starry night
For the first time since we arrived in New Zealand, there are clear skies at night. We have some street lights around so viewing is not ideal, but in only four or five minutes I saw two meteors streak overhead.
It has been decades since I was an astronomy lab assistant spending hours looking up and I am lost in a sea of bright, beautiful stars that are foreign to me. I will have to get a guide to the southern sky that I can take with me to a dark area and have a good look around. If the clear skies prevail, the new moon will make for ideal stargazing, just in time for the weekend.
It has been decades since I was an astronomy lab assistant spending hours looking up and I am lost in a sea of bright, beautiful stars that are foreign to me. I will have to get a guide to the southern sky that I can take with me to a dark area and have a good look around. If the clear skies prevail, the new moon will make for ideal stargazing, just in time for the weekend.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Sunday, October 23, 2011
The morning after
No spoilers! For my slugabed family and friends in the States, who have yet to watch the Rugby World Cup, I will defer any comments on the match or its outcome.
Earlier I posted that we had visited Queen's Park, but I was mistaken. We were in Otepuni Gardens.
Tara and I made it to Sunday services and then spent a quiet day at home before going out to a nearby restaurant and pub. They are adjacent to each other and only a couple of blocks from our flat. Supper was quite good. I had Toad in the Hole, which as far as I can tell is the same as bangers and mash- sausages and mashed potatoes with green beans and peas. They had me with the name. After dinner I had a short black, a small cup of very strong coffee.
We then saw the entire rugby match from the adjacent pub with several local fans, a large satellite TV screen, and many varieties of brew on-tap. Apparently one can bring children to a pub here and there was off-site betting as well with smaller screens showing horse races. One could also play pool or darts. There was an outside area with a roaring fireplace.
Tara just cleared off breakfast and I am finishing my tea. The sky is blue and partly cloudy. Threatened gale force spring winds have not materialized. So far there have not been any clear nights for star gazing. Later we will go for a walk in Queen's Park. We have reviewed travel brochures for the area and have the prospect of several local weekend hikes and excursions in the months to come.
Tomorrow I go for an orientation day at work. Wednesday, I begin work in earnest.
Earlier I posted that we had visited Queen's Park, but I was mistaken. We were in Otepuni Gardens.
Tara and I made it to Sunday services and then spent a quiet day at home before going out to a nearby restaurant and pub. They are adjacent to each other and only a couple of blocks from our flat. Supper was quite good. I had Toad in the Hole, which as far as I can tell is the same as bangers and mash- sausages and mashed potatoes with green beans and peas. They had me with the name. After dinner I had a short black, a small cup of very strong coffee.
We then saw the entire rugby match from the adjacent pub with several local fans, a large satellite TV screen, and many varieties of brew on-tap. Apparently one can bring children to a pub here and there was off-site betting as well with smaller screens showing horse races. One could also play pool or darts. There was an outside area with a roaring fireplace.
Tara just cleared off breakfast and I am finishing my tea. The sky is blue and partly cloudy. Threatened gale force spring winds have not materialized. So far there have not been any clear nights for star gazing. Later we will go for a walk in Queen's Park. We have reviewed travel brochures for the area and have the prospect of several local weekend hikes and excursions in the months to come.
Tomorrow I go for an orientation day at work. Wednesday, I begin work in earnest.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
One for all and two for Three!...
...Musketeers that is. Anyway, that is what I said to the lady at the Reading Cinema when ordering tickets for "The Three Musketeers in 3-D". She got it, but Tara groaned. We saw "Johnny English Reborn" at eleven a.m. and then walked around downtown. For lunch, we went to a turkish restaurant. The lamb and chips was excellent (a bit spicy which I like) although the portion was enough for two. I had a "tall black" with it, a large strong cup of coffee- delicious and strong enough to overcome the spice of the meal.
We walked an hour and a half, checking out shops, info on flats for rent, offers for travel and places to eat.
We also saw St. Mary's Basilica (1905) and Otepuni Gardens. I will post photos as words will not do either justice. We did not go inside the basilica. That will wait until morning.
After the second movie, we stopped at the Pak N Save, a big box grocery with a large selection. We finally got salt (salt substitute not to be found here), more milk and some canned vegetables. We have only a little room, so do not want to buy too much at once.
With such a large lunch followed by drinks and a shared expresso brownie at Starbuck's, we will have only soup, juice and tea tonight. My tummy is still very happy.
The skies cleared considerably today. I hope to catch my first glimpse of the southern stars shortly. Pictures to follow. Tomorrow evening we plan to get dinner and drinks at the nearby pub- if we can get in. The rugby match starts at nine p.m. I understand little of the game (apologies to my two children who do or have played), but do know an historic event when I see one.
We walked an hour and a half, checking out shops, info on flats for rent, offers for travel and places to eat.
We also saw St. Mary's Basilica (1905) and Otepuni Gardens. I will post photos as words will not do either justice. We did not go inside the basilica. That will wait until morning.
After the second movie, we stopped at the Pak N Save, a big box grocery with a large selection. We finally got salt (salt substitute not to be found here), more milk and some canned vegetables. We have only a little room, so do not want to buy too much at once.
With such a large lunch followed by drinks and a shared expresso brownie at Starbuck's, we will have only soup, juice and tea tonight. My tummy is still very happy.
The skies cleared considerably today. I hope to catch my first glimpse of the southern stars shortly. Pictures to follow. Tomorrow evening we plan to get dinner and drinks at the nearby pub- if we can get in. The rugby match starts at nine p.m. I understand little of the game (apologies to my two children who do or have played), but do know an historic event when I see one.
Friday, October 21, 2011
A what warning?
Before filling you in on Friday, 21 October... Today we had a good rest and awoke to early morning light. I turned on the living room light and television. Upon flipping through channels, I was notified of the local weather forecast and a tsunami warning. There were no details at first and I started Google Earth to see where we are in respect to the sea. We are at a towering elevation of nine meters. At least we are across the street from hospital. A subsequent announcement shows the offending earthquake to the northeast of the north island.
Yesterday was productive. Tara and I made a trip to the supermarket in the morning. Food costs are higher than in the States, but the meat is very pretty. Yams are small and orange-red. Tara did not venture to buy any as yet. I had a brief meeting at Southland Hospital to sign some papers and get additional information on our flat and loaner car. We drive (and walk) on the left in New Zealand. There is a law, not yet rescinded, in which a car turning right opposite a car turning left has the right of way! Go figure. I also asked about work attire. Casual is the way to go. Ties are rare and I was told I would stand out were I to wear a white coat. I was shown the senior doctors' parking lot, the residence (on-grounds) of the chief medical officer, shown where my office will be and briefly met the woman who will serve as my secretary. I also dropped off my MRSA screening tests.
The hospital visit was brief and I was home in an hour. Tara and I ate soup and then went out to get my IRD number. This is a tax number similar to a social security number. I found the office fine, but a notice on the door stated we needed to call for an appointment. We went inside and called the number. I was advised that for $10 NZ we could go to a NZAA office (the local AAA) and fill out an expedited application- getting my number by phone in two business days. Monday, October 24th is Labour Day, a holiday. While at AA, the staff member was very helpful (a common trait in New Zealand) and helped us transfer our US AAA membership while in New Zealand. She also gave us maps of Invercargill, the south island, and Queenstown- a warmer coastal city two hours to the north. Later, when we buy a car, we can get insurance through AA and qualify for a lower rate if we get New Zealand driver's licences.
We then went to one of the banks to open an account. We were worked in on the spot by yet another very helpful person and were done in about forty minutes. We also learned that insurance, including renter's insurance, can be bought at the bank.
Tsunami warning cancelled at 8:32 a.m. local- Yay!
We saw Queen's Park briefly while going to/from AA. It looks beautiful. Three more trips wound up our chores. I bought a multi-function printer. Electronics costs are similar to the States. Furniture, in another part of the store, are another matter. Gulp! We then stopped at the green grocer. The carrots were beautiful. Tara got cabbage for supper to go with the lemmon-pepper Hoki (fish) we got earlier. She also got tips on preparing the local yams, but did not buy any. The proprietor refers to the hospital, with its physicians of varied origins, as the United Nations. We got home and Tara began cooking. I went out for forgotten items (and still forgot salt). By seven p.m., we were both tired. Instead of staying up to watch Whales versus Australia (television versus local pub in walking distance) we went to sleep early and got up thirteen hours later.
For today, Tara and I are going to do something we have not done in several weeks- go to the cinema. We will see the new Johnny English movie (love Rowan Atkinson) walk around a bit and eat and then return for The Three Musketeers in the afternoon.
If you want to see our flat, one of four at this address, use Google Earth to look at 146 Kew Rd., Invercargill, New Zealand. The white roofs behind are the place we park.
Yesterday was productive. Tara and I made a trip to the supermarket in the morning. Food costs are higher than in the States, but the meat is very pretty. Yams are small and orange-red. Tara did not venture to buy any as yet. I had a brief meeting at Southland Hospital to sign some papers and get additional information on our flat and loaner car. We drive (and walk) on the left in New Zealand. There is a law, not yet rescinded, in which a car turning right opposite a car turning left has the right of way! Go figure. I also asked about work attire. Casual is the way to go. Ties are rare and I was told I would stand out were I to wear a white coat. I was shown the senior doctors' parking lot, the residence (on-grounds) of the chief medical officer, shown where my office will be and briefly met the woman who will serve as my secretary. I also dropped off my MRSA screening tests.
The hospital visit was brief and I was home in an hour. Tara and I ate soup and then went out to get my IRD number. This is a tax number similar to a social security number. I found the office fine, but a notice on the door stated we needed to call for an appointment. We went inside and called the number. I was advised that for $10 NZ we could go to a NZAA office (the local AAA) and fill out an expedited application- getting my number by phone in two business days. Monday, October 24th is Labour Day, a holiday. While at AA, the staff member was very helpful (a common trait in New Zealand) and helped us transfer our US AAA membership while in New Zealand. She also gave us maps of Invercargill, the south island, and Queenstown- a warmer coastal city two hours to the north. Later, when we buy a car, we can get insurance through AA and qualify for a lower rate if we get New Zealand driver's licences.
We then went to one of the banks to open an account. We were worked in on the spot by yet another very helpful person and were done in about forty minutes. We also learned that insurance, including renter's insurance, can be bought at the bank.
Tsunami warning cancelled at 8:32 a.m. local- Yay!
We saw Queen's Park briefly while going to/from AA. It looks beautiful. Three more trips wound up our chores. I bought a multi-function printer. Electronics costs are similar to the States. Furniture, in another part of the store, are another matter. Gulp! We then stopped at the green grocer. The carrots were beautiful. Tara got cabbage for supper to go with the lemmon-pepper Hoki (fish) we got earlier. She also got tips on preparing the local yams, but did not buy any. The proprietor refers to the hospital, with its physicians of varied origins, as the United Nations. We got home and Tara began cooking. I went out for forgotten items (and still forgot salt). By seven p.m., we were both tired. Instead of staying up to watch Whales versus Australia (television versus local pub in walking distance) we went to sleep early and got up thirteen hours later.
For today, Tara and I are going to do something we have not done in several weeks- go to the cinema. We will see the new Johnny English movie (love Rowan Atkinson) walk around a bit and eat and then return for The Three Musketeers in the afternoon.
If you want to see our flat, one of four at this address, use Google Earth to look at 146 Kew Rd., Invercargill, New Zealand. The white roofs behind are the place we park.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Arrival in Invercargill
Tara and I have arrived in Invercargill. Air New Zealand has wonderful crew and that feed you much better than American airlines. Their on-time service- not so much. Zero for three. On the first leg of our trip today, the plane failed to meet specs and we had to deplane and board another plan about one hour later than the original flight. For staff and service- A, equipment B (generally nice and spacious, but some signs of aging such as the worn remotes on the earlier trans-Pacific flight), schedule C-.
Upon arriving in Invercargill we could see green fields, bordered by rows of vegetation, similar to what we saw landing at Christchurch. We also saw many sheep, grazing between runways. The wind was strong and a bit cold. We were met at the airport by a woman who did not realize our arrival was delayed two hours. I’ll blast a phone service provider later.
We are in a flat provided by the hospital for the first six weeks. I also have a loaner car (manual shift, right-sided controls) and managed to get us to the KFC for dinner. It took us awhile to comprehend our menu choices. Tara was thrilled to find Mountain Dew, while I had Peepsie (spelled phonetically). Tomato sauce for my chips (ketchup for fries) carried a $1.00 NZ surcharge ($1.47 with tax). Most everything in New Zealand appears to have a charge (hotel internet, breakfast) but our Auckland hotel newspapers were gratis and the New Zealand Herald is a real newspaper at that- full-sized with local news in abundance. On the way home, my driving amused Tara so much, she nearly peed herself. It was mostly trying to stop the wipers whose control is where our turn signals are in the States. I nearly had to lock her out in the cold until she composed herself.
Time for bed- I have some paperwork in the a.m. We have unpacked and eaten. I have set up a wireless network and network-attached storage. We have several adapters for the local electricity.
First meal in New Zealand
Tara and I walked down to the habour in Auckland through a cool drizzle. We went by the wharf passing a couple of nice restaurants in each direction. We made our way to the bars and restaurants by the Hilton. Tara (never-met-a-stranger) inquired of two locals where was a good place to eat. Their first and primary recommendation was Euro. The bill of fare posted outside was promising. Despite no reservations we were able to be seated although the table was needed in ninety minutes. If it ever takes me ninety minutes to eat, well I guess I'll be back to eating strained prunes by then.
Our server was very attentive and helpful, as well as very British in his speech. We started with warm bread, nice enough in itself, but made wonderful with a butter-mushroom-truffle spread. Tara had prawns which were seasoned and breaded as well as I have ever tasted (she shared one) and I had a truffle-cauliflower soup which was much nicer than it probably sounds to most. Tara had rotisserie chicken and cole slaw, while I chose lamb on chick peas in a barbeque sauce. The recommended Syrah was quite good. I fear I did not note whether it was domestic or not. Tara apologised for not remembering our server's name at which point he gave it- for the first time. "Well, there you are". We Americans can be a bit familiar. No room for desert, but we could not have picked a nicer place for our first meal in New Zealand. Food and service were impeccable. Next time I will call ahead for reservations and allow time and room for desert.
I considered going next to a nearby comedy club and calibrating my sense of humour in this culture, but we decided rest and a little time catching up on the internet would be more reasonable after a long trip and some residual sleep deficit. We rested well, although briefly awakened as Auckland's downtown reverberated between two and three a.m. with the revelries of Kiwis anticipating the World Cup in four days with New Zealand's All Black facing off in the finals against France.
Our server was very attentive and helpful, as well as very British in his speech. We started with warm bread, nice enough in itself, but made wonderful with a butter-mushroom-truffle spread. Tara had prawns which were seasoned and breaded as well as I have ever tasted (she shared one) and I had a truffle-cauliflower soup which was much nicer than it probably sounds to most. Tara had rotisserie chicken and cole slaw, while I chose lamb on chick peas in a barbeque sauce. The recommended Syrah was quite good. I fear I did not note whether it was domestic or not. Tara apologised for not remembering our server's name at which point he gave it- for the first time. "Well, there you are". We Americans can be a bit familiar. No room for desert, but we could not have picked a nicer place for our first meal in New Zealand. Food and service were impeccable. Next time I will call ahead for reservations and allow time and room for desert.
I considered going next to a nearby comedy club and calibrating my sense of humour in this culture, but we decided rest and a little time catching up on the internet would be more reasonable after a long trip and some residual sleep deficit. We rested well, although briefly awakened as Auckland's downtown reverberated between two and three a.m. with the revelries of Kiwis anticipating the World Cup in four days with New Zealand's All Black facing off in the finals against France.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Arrived Auckland
The flight on Air New Zealand was delayed leaving Los Angeles, but otherwise uneventful. We had a pleasant dinner (wine included in economy). I was able to sleep most of the 13 hour trip and saw most of two recent movies in the time I was awake.
Customs was quick. Tara got to converse more once it was known she is in law enforcement in the States. On an impulse, I decided we would rent a car rather than take a taxi. The person at Avis was able to find my business account and put us in a Toyota Corolla. Our five large suitcases just fit but I had to put Tara's carry-on between my legs to keep the rear window clear. Tara drove (right-sided conrols, left lane) while I referred to the map that the lady in Avis had kindly marked with directions. Tara had driven on the left in Aruba, but the controls were not switched as they are here.
We made it to the hotel and located the car park. We got a nap and shower before going to meet a representitive of the medical council of New Zealand. We were given directions on how to return along the bay. Tara is now famished so off to eat we go. Pretty city. More later (and pictures).
Customs was quick. Tara got to converse more once it was known she is in law enforcement in the States. On an impulse, I decided we would rent a car rather than take a taxi. The person at Avis was able to find my business account and put us in a Toyota Corolla. Our five large suitcases just fit but I had to put Tara's carry-on between my legs to keep the rear window clear. Tara drove (right-sided conrols, left lane) while I referred to the map that the lady in Avis had kindly marked with directions. Tara had driven on the left in Aruba, but the controls were not switched as they are here.
We made it to the hotel and located the car park. We got a nap and shower before going to meet a representitive of the medical council of New Zealand. We were given directions on how to return along the bay. Tara is now famished so off to eat we go. Pretty city. More later (and pictures).
Monday, October 17, 2011
Up up and away!
We have flown across the USA today. In 14 minutes we board a plane for Auckland, New Zealand. I could not install the international SIM cards in our phones. Details. Got to go. This will be fun if I can get past the details.
Back in six months for visit. Love to family and friends.
Back in six months for visit. Love to family and friends.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Say Goodnight Gracie
Moderately tired. Lots I could do. Much will have to wait.
Three of us just wrenched the last screw out of the last license tag to turn in tomorrow. I nearly put my left trapezius into spasm getting it loose.
Today started with church, followed by a family breakfast. Tara spent time with an ailing aunt while I took a peek at some family videos with my parents. Earlier this summer I had several dozen home videos spanning the last quarter century digitized onto a two terabyte drive. I made this available to my parents while Tara and I are away.
Tara and I repacked and weighed our luggage and had dinner with our families.
Now we need to not stay up too late. Tomorrow is a big day and we will need our wits about us. I look forward to the opportunities that this position and trip promise.
Three of us just wrenched the last screw out of the last license tag to turn in tomorrow. I nearly put my left trapezius into spasm getting it loose.
Today started with church, followed by a family breakfast. Tara spent time with an ailing aunt while I took a peek at some family videos with my parents. Earlier this summer I had several dozen home videos spanning the last quarter century digitized onto a two terabyte drive. I made this available to my parents while Tara and I are away.
Tara and I repacked and weighed our luggage and had dinner with our families.
Now we need to not stay up too late. Tomorrow is a big day and we will need our wits about us. I look forward to the opportunities that this position and trip promise.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Back to beginnings
My wife Tara and I could have left for New Zealand five days ago, but with a 35th college reunion this weekend, I wanted a chance to renew the aquaintance of many of the people who shared that important time in my life. This whole week has been filled with last minute tasks and good-byes.
Tara and I worked our last days (for a while) in the U.S.A. on October 10, 2011. On the 12th, Tara sold her car. This was fortunate as otherwise we would have had to drive two cars to my 35th reunion at Randolph-Macon College and then to our parents homes in coastal North Carolina. Tara had swapped trailers with a friend so we could transport her candy-apple red Honda Shadow 750 behind us.
We got out of our home in Hendersonville,North Carolina just after 11:30 a.m. on the 13th. One more trip to the storage units and a brief stop for brunch with two daughters, a fiancee, and the youngest grandson, Liam- only six weeks old. We had fifteen minutes according to Google Maps if we were to get to the college in time for the first event that evening.
Tara drove and I navigated which is basically how most of our road trips go. A campus police officer, she works nights. Between her topsy-turvey sleep schedule and the excitement of the last day, she got almost no sleep on our makeshift air mattress. Despite this she drove the approximately seven hour trip with almost no break and we made it to Randolph-Macon College in time to hear an excellent presentation by Charles Krauthammer about healthcare in the United States. One of my hopes working in a hospital in New Zealand for a year is to see how they deliver quality healthcare for significantly less cost than we do.
Friday the 14th, two of our friends, Brenda and Darrel came up from their home in Virginia to see us. We met them along with a couple from Georgia, Tiffany and Ron, on a land-cruise trip to Alaska in 2008. Since then Tara and I have travelled with one or both couples several times. It was great to see Brenda and Darrel. They like historic sites and we went to Hanover Tavern which dates back to 1733. In the 1950s,
one of my former professors, the late David S. "Pete" Kilgore, his wife Nancy, and three others established Barksdale Theatre, the nation's first dinner theatre at that site.
Last night and today, Tara and I participated in Homecoming activities. It was great to see so many people again. Some e-mails were exchanged and I hope to keep in touch. It was also moving to note the traditions of the school go on. There is another generation benefitting from a liberal arts education and, as in my case, the opportunity to prepare for subsequent medical training. Greek life and athletics are also alive and well at R-MC. Tara observed that all of the students she spoke to were pleasant and polite.
Now we are at Tara's parents' home. In less than forty hours we head for the airport and start the first leg of our trip to Invercargill, New Zealand, culminating a year of preparations. I hope to share some of our motives, experiences and photographs for family, friends and others with interests in travel, healthcare, and our personal journey.
Tara and I worked our last days (for a while) in the U.S.A. on October 10, 2011. On the 12th, Tara sold her car. This was fortunate as otherwise we would have had to drive two cars to my 35th reunion at Randolph-Macon College and then to our parents homes in coastal North Carolina. Tara had swapped trailers with a friend so we could transport her candy-apple red Honda Shadow 750 behind us.
We got out of our home in Hendersonville,North Carolina just after 11:30 a.m. on the 13th. One more trip to the storage units and a brief stop for brunch with two daughters, a fiancee, and the youngest grandson, Liam- only six weeks old. We had fifteen minutes according to Google Maps if we were to get to the college in time for the first event that evening.
Tara drove and I navigated which is basically how most of our road trips go. A campus police officer, she works nights. Between her topsy-turvey sleep schedule and the excitement of the last day, she got almost no sleep on our makeshift air mattress. Despite this she drove the approximately seven hour trip with almost no break and we made it to Randolph-Macon College in time to hear an excellent presentation by Charles Krauthammer about healthcare in the United States. One of my hopes working in a hospital in New Zealand for a year is to see how they deliver quality healthcare for significantly less cost than we do.
Friday the 14th, two of our friends, Brenda and Darrel came up from their home in Virginia to see us. We met them along with a couple from Georgia, Tiffany and Ron, on a land-cruise trip to Alaska in 2008. Since then Tara and I have travelled with one or both couples several times. It was great to see Brenda and Darrel. They like historic sites and we went to Hanover Tavern which dates back to 1733. In the 1950s,
one of my former professors, the late David S. "Pete" Kilgore, his wife Nancy, and three others established Barksdale Theatre, the nation's first dinner theatre at that site.
Last night and today, Tara and I participated in Homecoming activities. It was great to see so many people again. Some e-mails were exchanged and I hope to keep in touch. It was also moving to note the traditions of the school go on. There is another generation benefitting from a liberal arts education and, as in my case, the opportunity to prepare for subsequent medical training. Greek life and athletics are also alive and well at R-MC. Tara observed that all of the students she spoke to were pleasant and polite.
Now we are at Tara's parents' home. In less than forty hours we head for the airport and start the first leg of our trip to Invercargill, New Zealand, culminating a year of preparations. I hope to share some of our motives, experiences and photographs for family, friends and others with interests in travel, healthcare, and our personal journey.
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