Searching

As children we are taught so many things regarding relationships with Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and Family. These are just some of the fundamentals of Primary that we learn. I have been trying to go back to these simple principals. Trying to go back to where it all began; where we became, who we are today. Not only in our religious beliefs, but in what we do, where we go, who we are friends with, who we marry, etc.

I think by coming out here, it has helped me re-focus so many aspects of my life. To try to figure out what is important to me, to think about what I want to do, or more accurately what I don't want to do! I am still searching for so many things: my career, my home, my husband, MY life!

Believe me when I say, this is only the beginning...I don't know if I have found any of the answers to any of my questions. But luckily for me, I am given the opportunity to continue the search...

A lot of these pictures are taken from the Auckland Zoo. It was pretty amazing to see most of these animals not behind glass, just a rope. Loved it.

Smooth Ride

Someone told me that upon arrival if it is raining, the Island is welcoming you...well let's just say the Island was ecstatic to have me here. Dad and Liz picked me up from the airport with plans to visit a few beaches on the way home, specifically to find BIG shells. Well my dad and I attempted to get out on the beach, unfortunately the rain pounced all over us and before long we were on our way to what would now be my new home.

It's all a bit overwhelming but everything seems to be falling into place. I think that reality will hit shortly; I am on amazingly beautiful island, I am working and making money while I get to travel around the world, I get to be with family, I get to meet more amazing people and friends. I don't know if most people get to experience such a great opportunity in their lives, and I am so grateful for this time. One day I will settle down somewhere permanent?? At least my dad hopes so ;)

The last 5 days I have seen:

• Muruwai Beach - Gannets
• Orewa Beach - Wenderholm
• Takapuna Beach
• Manukau Harbor - Cornwallace
• Devonport Beach - walked through a bed of live sand dollars, kind of freaky!

Accomplishments of this week:

1. Job - start working Monday :) Jan 11
2. Friends - made at least 1 friend and went to singles activity
3. Cell phone - got a number and pre-paid phone for my 'friends' to get a hold of me ;) hehe
4. Bus pass - made my way around Auckland all by myself...eke.

As of today, I felt I have learned a few lessons on life:

Relationships are hard, especially when you are together 24/7, but it is worth it for the companionship, caring and love, you just have to choose your battles. People all over the world are good and have amazing hearts. Anthropology fascinates me! Change is good for the soul.

Upon arrival, Auckland Airport 5 am

...and the rains come down

Tidal Wave

Tiki Post

Gannets

they say more sheep than people...this is a start.

Rangitoto across the way from the Takapuna Beach

Picture this - Orewa

Devonport - Big guns

Bay of sand dollars, every step we took!

Tiny Window

Through a tiny window, the world is at my fingertips. For now I see a valley of bitter cold white, snow. The tiny flakes, like a feather, float to the earth so beautifully swirling round like ballerinas covering the earth so no warmth can escape.

The valley looks so cold and lonely. But as I travel onward the desert is alone. Rocks, sand, cactus, trees and what appears to be one road through the center, allowing you to pass through and bring life for even just a moment. But in an instant life emerges as the skyscrapers take over the entire view below.

Now everything appears to be backwards out of this tiny window; the flush of the toilet, the time of day, driving on the left side of the road…the list could go on and on.

But here I sit, in my new home staring out into the world through a big window…

Everyone but Shane's 4 (nieces and nephews)

A White Christmas

Whip Cream Fun!!

Rose Bowl Parade floats

Sunset with the girls, Thousand Oaks.

Why put a sign like this...when you know people like me will be here ;) hehe

They say there are more sheep than people here??

So as this shot is being taken, the swell completely hits me and drenches me...haha so great!