And it's been one hell of a great week at that! You know, as nervous as I was for this whole experience, I am delighted to say this transition has been incredibly smooth! I was worried about meeting new people, gaining new friends, figuring out where everything is, etc. But I've honestly surprised myself! I can't believe it's already been one week in New Zealand. Hey, it's just like I said earlier, the busier I am, the faster time will go. However, I'm not sure when that newness will wear off and culture shock will set in...
Anyways, the farmers market this morning was pretty good! I enjoyed a crepe (thought of you, Mom! No Nutella though...) with lemon curd as I wandered through the market, surveying what each tent had to offer. In the end, I ended up purchasing some eggs. Exciting I know. I figure I love breakfast food, so might as well have plenty of options to choose from at home! Actually ended up making eggs and potatoes for lunch. Like I actually cooked something...and it actually tasted good...and it was kind of healthy...and I'm still alive...not sure what that is all about. Maybe I am finally growing up! ;) If I gain nothing else here, at least I will be a decent cook come time to live in the sorority house winter quarter. Last year it seemed like I didn't know a thing about cooking. My roomie Megan definitely showed me up in that department! Except I was a pro and making mac and cheese and ramen noodles. Although I think that is a talent that every college student gains sooner or later. I'm pretty sure everyone in the house (~30 girls) saw me make ramen noodles at least one time throughout the year. So we will see what kind of new recipes and cooking skills I come home with. Maybe then I can actually cook a meal for you guys, Libby!
Anyways, the farmers market this morning was pretty good! I enjoyed a crepe (thought of you, Mom! No Nutella though...) with lemon curd as I wandered through the market, surveying what each tent had to offer. In the end, I ended up purchasing some eggs. Exciting I know. I figure I love breakfast food, so might as well have plenty of options to choose from at home! Actually ended up making eggs and potatoes for lunch. Like I actually cooked something...and it actually tasted good...and it was kind of healthy...and I'm still alive...not sure what that is all about. Maybe I am finally growing up! ;) If I gain nothing else here, at least I will be a decent cook come time to live in the sorority house winter quarter. Last year it seemed like I didn't know a thing about cooking. My roomie Megan definitely showed me up in that department! Except I was a pro and making mac and cheese and ramen noodles. Although I think that is a talent that every college student gains sooner or later. I'm pretty sure everyone in the house (~30 girls) saw me make ramen noodles at least one time throughout the year. So we will see what kind of new recipes and cooking skills I come home with. Maybe then I can actually cook a meal for you guys, Libby!
As a little 4th of July celebration (even though it was actually the 5th of July here) as well as a little celebration of the one week milestone, I purchased my first legal alcoholic beverage. My kiwi host Kim decided to have a pizza party with our flat and her friend Megan's flat so beforehand,.we drove over to the liquor store. I walked inside with some feeling of freedom, excitement and a little bit of puzzlement. I mean it's my first legal alcohol purchase, what do I even buy?! But as soon as I saw it, I knew. Jack Daniel's Tennessee whiskey and coke, all in one bottle! I'm sure my choice only surprises like 1% of you reading this post. But right away I thought of Dacia! I know she would have been all over those babies! So that one was for you girl! :) I also learned that drinking games are a big thing here. So it looks like I have a few more fun games to teach you all when I get home. Luckily those Jack and Coke drinks weren't too powerful, because those games could easily do you in for the night! My tolerance from drinking at 5,280 feet kept me fine through just over 2 of those Jack and cokes. The only thing I noticed was my body temperature rose, which in this weather was perfect. I wasn't miserably cold sitting around the flat tonight. I had a great night full of laughs with some wonderful people. But now it is time for me to catch some z's. I have a 9:30am train to catch in the morning! Here's to more adventures!
I will write again soon! Get ready for some beautiful pictures from the train ride!
I will write again soon! Get ready for some beautiful pictures from the train ride!