Week 3, March 10, 2008

Finally got out for my first surf on the sixth, which was very refreshing. Just seeing the waves yesterday really showed the potential for what perfect waves can break here, though they were small, but reeling barrels with offshore winds. My birthday came and went, but it sure was fun. Trish took me out to a few local bars around the water, and then we met up with Stu for dinner at The Marina for some dank food, the best wine I have ever had so far (Laughing Magpie Shiraz) and a desert wine that tasted almost like apple juice, and of course more great beer. I had my first NZ "Crayfish", which look like kinda like lobster but are twice the size, taste way better, and don't have claws. I also ate mussels for the first time, which were great, and some scrumptious NZ icecream. I keep expierencing new foods every week so far, this week I ate a Nashi (pear/apple cross) and a passion fruit, both are really good. The number of kiwi beers has suprised me, though I have tried quite a few, there are still lots more left to try, and so far they all taste way better than any American beer. I really have no clue which is my favorite so far, because they all taste great. Going in to help out at the World Cafe for the first time tomorrow, so now its time to read The Holy Bible, and get some sleep.

March 1, 2008

After having lunch and chillinn out at the cafe today I went in for my second shift at the Wharf. The people seem to be quite nice and mellow, and the atmosphere is good. The free staff meals are definately a bonus, and it is good experience as well, as I still have a lot to learn working the bar, coffee machine, etc. The sky looked like heaven today as the sun started its descent towards the horizon and beyond. Just pausing for a moment to take it in brings such a great peace; just a reminder of how great God is and all the beauty He continues to bring forth every day. After work I found my way back to the cafe for a brewski with Uncle Stu and crew. My ears seem to have come into tune as I understood about 90% of everything he said tonight in all his stories about Uncle Jack and Barry. Stu is a real funny character. And now after some black beans n rice it is time to retire.

Day 1 - Thursday Feb.21 2008

After many exspenses paid [I suggest traveling light as possible when traveling, as the fees for my baggage was about $400] and arduous flying I arrive in Gisborne, New Zealand. I am greeted by my aunt Tricia at the airport and then we're off to go check out the local surfspots. There was nobody out surfing, though if the waves were in Corpus the lineups would be full. After seeing the local beaches, we stop in at the family cafe where i am greeted by my uncle Stu with my first NZ beer, Gizzy Gold, brewed locally here in Gisborne. After a couple mugs, its to the house, 20 minutes out of town on 10 acres of land consumed mostly by maiz at the moment. Arrival at the house is induced by the introduction to the gang of animals: Charles Barkley the large black rooster and several other hens who are a daily supply of fresh egss, Cochese the horse, the dogs Zoey, Cash, and Cutty, and the cats Derka Derka and Jihad. This was followed up by a muy sabroso dinner. All the food tastes really good over here and is really good for you too. NZ is said to have some of the most fertile land in the world. The fruits and vegtables especially are unbelievable. Dinner led straightaway into the best sleep of my life.