tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50779173974533867502023-11-16T05:51:12.213-08:00A Different Kind of SouthernThe Life and Times of an American Girl Living in New ZealandKatie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-50321125937794095812015-07-25T15:07:00.000-07:002015-07-25T15:11:49.141-07:00A Winter Escape to Fiji<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Somehow we live in a world where Adam has to go to Fiji for work. Yes Fiji. For work. I was not about to let him go to a tropical island without me, so his work trip quickly turned into a last minute family vacation. Well, as last minute as a trip can be when a passport is involved. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPK9keOFUuF6TPMfjog_RX1e80ft6Ophr2yXPFkNP4S1XHRtE7dnKk35jMq6dZSpK4Zgq9pLD9Ol2GsnT97ksbexfvXU-2zjN3AaMm299Gksbhqe9Yw-5FnyzZOTEDyebWv8mmjmvmr2a/s1600/hazel+dancing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPK9keOFUuF6TPMfjog_RX1e80ft6Ophr2yXPFkNP4S1XHRtE7dnKk35jMq6dZSpK4Zgq9pLD9Ol2GsnT97ksbexfvXU-2zjN3AaMm299Gksbhqe9Yw-5FnyzZOTEDyebWv8mmjmvmr2a/s1600/hazel+dancing.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh and it happened to be our wedding anniversary. Coincidence? I think not. Our newlywed days seem so long ago now... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00PCLZ6FbYs4HneGPIKUEwa4G0WTWdy30YnPXCyXpJpaEQ1lMVzNtFYtJH1x4UVXaHpqi6J5eGszvkB00ZL0IXaDIsEmPb2FNpCVT0ORpy87kpd48Uh53SGjGYRpE9h1gONYHNf2bpJcr/s1600/newlyweds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00PCLZ6FbYs4HneGPIKUEwa4G0WTWdy30YnPXCyXpJpaEQ1lMVzNtFYtJH1x4UVXaHpqi6J5eGszvkB00ZL0IXaDIsEmPb2FNpCVT0ORpy87kpd48Uh53SGjGYRpE9h1gONYHNf2bpJcr/s1600/newlyweds.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been an eventful 4 years to say the least. I could take a trip down memory lane, but for now I'll stick to the trip at hand. I've written about Fiji before so I won't bore you with the details of warm ocean breezes and overpriced cocktails. It was Maggie's first trip though and she fit right in. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76W4X4FEOKZl85vmqxueV5Rvyl6zd-lMkP4gK7mf_vWfdNRm2WRFdyWaGetuqN5GG8rkuUy7LyiJa_ZjHQujZVY_hYpf7juhq6GQ_14gZ5-zOe1HzbE9sD04qWxyUsb1Jb3VczNM6YYSu/s1600/maggie+hammock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76W4X4FEOKZl85vmqxueV5Rvyl6zd-lMkP4gK7mf_vWfdNRm2WRFdyWaGetuqN5GG8rkuUy7LyiJa_ZjHQujZVY_hYpf7juhq6GQ_14gZ5-zOe1HzbE9sD04qWxyUsb1Jb3VczNM6YYSu/s1600/maggie+hammock.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hazel, of course, had a ball.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0zDC5shnCmouUiRRD-GMgzZIBxUkEW-gX0ppJvxbihTSCOSUkV_5izD-C7CAabbZDn2h7d0VIvxb_TflEZoSP1fESPmIWHjBPygn6NMztYjkDztWz2lKVJO0Sgzneb6xSBeksYmgA7m-/s1600/hazel+adam+waterslide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0zDC5shnCmouUiRRD-GMgzZIBxUkEW-gX0ppJvxbihTSCOSUkV_5izD-C7CAabbZDn2h7d0VIvxb_TflEZoSP1fESPmIWHjBPygn6NMztYjkDztWz2lKVJO0Sgzneb6xSBeksYmgA7m-/s1600/hazel+adam+waterslide.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Besides a water slide, our hotel also came with a 10-year old babysitter. Technically just a girl Hazel met at the pool, but she made it clear she was adopting Hazel for the duration of her stay and played with her for hours in the pool each day. We didn't mind.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0D3xktrUQ9xU2HYSS44_K46kDfS4msw1lIHDpsp634yOxDuD_MhW75KHFwlqc5lzTOMwn1XemExw_-EQ2O56M7OfTauF-BsBNgPMnfgwFpLmZFfDW83UAy4dVFWzOysNhY9sIQFn9dfDD/s1600/adam+katie+feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0D3xktrUQ9xU2HYSS44_K46kDfS4msw1lIHDpsp634yOxDuD_MhW75KHFwlqc5lzTOMwn1XemExw_-EQ2O56M7OfTauF-BsBNgPMnfgwFpLmZFfDW83UAy4dVFWzOysNhY9sIQFn9dfDD/s1600/adam+katie+feet.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fiji really is so incredibly family friendly. I've never seen a culture embrace children they way the Fijians do. And it's not just the women, I'm talking grown men fawning over babies and children. It's quite remarkable and makes spending time there that much more enjoyable. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBwrIKEbfGBjdwqQfFtuNyU_vToNg-DM4nu6T1XrXkF2L4y1ff_XPicM7rYRa2Ij3cSCoL8eDPxKTMqxFgFbYMbQrS5vYzgNQJLcjoX6BdIxjzqHGPXkqUDHWKT1U5F1wn16dGnrTncxK/s1600/hazel+float.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBwrIKEbfGBjdwqQfFtuNyU_vToNg-DM4nu6T1XrXkF2L4y1ff_XPicM7rYRa2Ij3cSCoL8eDPxKTMqxFgFbYMbQrS5vYzgNQJLcjoX6BdIxjzqHGPXkqUDHWKT1U5F1wn16dGnrTncxK/s1600/hazel+float.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Most resorts have toddler pools, a playground, kids club, and babysitters available ($8 FJD/$5.5 NZD/$3.75 US an hour!) I'm all about taking a few hours of adult time to recharge the battery and remind ourselves of the old days. There might have been photographic evidence of said alone time if we hadn't both fallen asleep in the hammock. Fun in the sun makes everyone sleepy though.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA6szrPWluCQvvFd_Ar1PaAQPoRJx_A0gcz6oSl-gP7CcSPXxaMvnxNzyrSa2jR4U6YKbQ_uQEadsPuk6121cq3FZOoj7OTPjj5uEhtBNIBu0gRLxnXnyYnYQy7SChjF8CcftaX2I70o4/s1600/hazel+maggie+sleeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA6szrPWluCQvvFd_Ar1PaAQPoRJx_A0gcz6oSl-gP7CcSPXxaMvnxNzyrSa2jR4U6YKbQ_uQEadsPuk6121cq3FZOoj7OTPjj5uEhtBNIBu0gRLxnXnyYnYQy7SChjF8CcftaX2I70o4/s1600/hazel+maggie+sleeping.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A good friend of mine was staying at a neighboring hotel so it worked out perfectly. Hazel was happy to have her bff Harry around.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSjzOQLb-VXGUFW5o9U_c5UhwHCMsUJFT79EQ-ajSdfz3YTtksU2HKPFwESG5VtWAe03i7xJ90RAiv0-1ZBhmbiA3kVhmFtZhv6eMmhHQVMgg43Q4uHhLvkze85xC2rVFawyZ6gHG7Z8I/s1600/hazel+harry+pool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSjzOQLb-VXGUFW5o9U_c5UhwHCMsUJFT79EQ-ajSdfz3YTtksU2HKPFwESG5VtWAe03i7xJ90RAiv0-1ZBhmbiA3kVhmFtZhv6eMmhHQVMgg43Q4uHhLvkze85xC2rVFawyZ6gHG7Z8I/s320/hazel+harry+pool.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And we appreciated the extra entertainment provided by Harry's big sister on the plane. </div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwSV-b5ksYmRKE5hNs1ppXumuj4fhfjt7iTRLu32x_kF5Kn56ASYbYeDZTioq_GxIVzQWgEq5t7g5fP6NRgRP6oZRkPgWI0Nrz104jBrBy4l7nL8sElOhMuyIuS4hCxke992sD42Y0N9I/s1600/hazel+bella+plane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwSV-b5ksYmRKE5hNs1ppXumuj4fhfjt7iTRLu32x_kF5Kn56ASYbYeDZTioq_GxIVzQWgEq5t7g5fP6NRgRP6oZRkPgWI0Nrz104jBrBy4l7nL8sElOhMuyIuS4hCxke992sD42Y0N9I/s1600/hazel+bella+plane.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Speaking of flying, I've become such a nervous nellie the past few years. Problem is I love to travel, turns out I just don't like to fly. Ahhh, but the romance of travel gets me every time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXV6fBcByqMJC7a7zqDFkKAQRtjtZd3uQZvI79BfieaKnEnkFk06REDpH5cnQLP3Pa5POKiLe0_DjrtJsz4brcLTsCnmf0mQ4Q1w-T5-qEFd-Fr1sktvo4Jn3FP1JX6v4aeUocBHjWPAY/s1600/air+new+zealand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXV6fBcByqMJC7a7zqDFkKAQRtjtZd3uQZvI79BfieaKnEnkFk06REDpH5cnQLP3Pa5POKiLe0_DjrtJsz4brcLTsCnmf0mQ4Q1w-T5-qEFd-Fr1sktvo4Jn3FP1JX6v4aeUocBHjWPAY/s1600/air+new+zealand.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maggie proved to be a great little flyer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHeFqIMQVUtouflSB90jF_56jnIcQJsIY5SvoXVx-Ig6SshxnmpYpzp48jfKG2BArahJSnZgrFI03JqvBV3B7MTbt6Nt4MfKiQu2egQYy6JyYtw63DNLB7tToJ6_BzivMJNAyfCj2hdlzR/s1600/maggie+bassinet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHeFqIMQVUtouflSB90jF_56jnIcQJsIY5SvoXVx-Ig6SshxnmpYpzp48jfKG2BArahJSnZgrFI03JqvBV3B7MTbt6Nt4MfKiQu2egQYy6JyYtw63DNLB7tToJ6_BzivMJNAyfCj2hdlzR/s1600/maggie+bassinet.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a lovely trip and Fiji comes as close to a real vacation as you can get when kids are involved. Here's a few more pics from our time in paradise.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IB1DAbe3fpxUL4nLa1JyrZFAPouVZUzcqpCeCGY9krROZIKczn0ugYFN0Ra58V-ATtRVABOqkqbdIJsqfbDXsWWZQ7FMk8Uu8ALk6uW7Yy_2ULa9YDv6Lr-6CNlm0iQTkoLVu2UwG_Ur/s1600/adam+maggie+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IB1DAbe3fpxUL4nLa1JyrZFAPouVZUzcqpCeCGY9krROZIKczn0ugYFN0Ra58V-ATtRVABOqkqbdIJsqfbDXsWWZQ7FMk8Uu8ALk6uW7Yy_2ULa9YDv6Lr-6CNlm0iQTkoLVu2UwG_Ur/s1600/adam+maggie+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I mean what kid doesn't love the beach?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd1z1j36SvThiXcUf6JJPuhjNWRmYAuUFD1KmN9aGEb9_KigJOoBytqWR0PNpTxhvtMvuNMcv7xLpUVBgvlb6xLJblrvQvUoKywoczZmcrQUkjoVI0-o7EjmMZavH6qEyu3H9qerEKm46/s1600/Hazel+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd1z1j36SvThiXcUf6JJPuhjNWRmYAuUFD1KmN9aGEb9_KigJOoBytqWR0PNpTxhvtMvuNMcv7xLpUVBgvlb6xLJblrvQvUoKywoczZmcrQUkjoVI0-o7EjmMZavH6qEyu3H9qerEKm46/s1600/Hazel+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The great thing about this age is they don't move, so she pretty much did this most of the time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIh_XlD6xpaiWyBsvvguv3rSNYY04yUMS4leVRrcpMJ0q4kwEtYFp-6sMDCxb70eOcRE5-fw6TB87vnR6g_hlo5A_MmuP65_V9YuqBnmrAohSU6ZCv3mpBWOlWS2vzuErybM7z5InyvaO0/s1600/maggie+chilling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIh_XlD6xpaiWyBsvvguv3rSNYY04yUMS4leVRrcpMJ0q4kwEtYFp-6sMDCxb70eOcRE5-fw6TB87vnR6g_hlo5A_MmuP65_V9YuqBnmrAohSU6ZCv3mpBWOlWS2vzuErybM7z5InyvaO0/s1600/maggie+chilling.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If anyone has any tips on how to get a toddler to actually smile for the camera, I'd love to know. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3gdoHucT6Gqx1wKIt401v6Z6zRfd9bsOaTE2XaSVALMQ2s-KaZY6HXzpJmnlBQKhKAS3xUCVXp578q13D0hGY57-cDtuypE7xMkWNV68P_nKxS4cvwoDCMu76_34gv2dn6vE1qWOQtsQB/s1600/hazel+katie+sunnies+selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3gdoHucT6Gqx1wKIt401v6Z6zRfd9bsOaTE2XaSVALMQ2s-KaZY6HXzpJmnlBQKhKAS3xUCVXp578q13D0hGY57-cDtuypE7xMkWNV68P_nKxS4cvwoDCMu76_34gv2dn6vE1qWOQtsQB/s1600/hazel+katie+sunnies+selfie.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This one had no trouble relaxing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbms5W8qHXrexBkPHwy41kzKZHgHicgy1mMzZeihpT_Div4NFym_ukCp1liLE9HF5UD34BRO8h3rRpkfXXNTUnNC1EbNc7ViOPHWhn7A58h8aFSrpQNtXsg8WMNydo0MqkVmxS-p8MWfb-/s1600/maggie+yawning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbms5W8qHXrexBkPHwy41kzKZHgHicgy1mMzZeihpT_Div4NFym_ukCp1liLE9HF5UD34BRO8h3rRpkfXXNTUnNC1EbNc7ViOPHWhn7A58h8aFSrpQNtXsg8WMNydo0MqkVmxS-p8MWfb-/s1600/maggie+yawning.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a short, but sweet getaway. On the drive home from the airport Hazel spent the first five minutes of the car ride screaming, "I want to go back to Fiji." </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLcCOtZaD5f9BaL4Juj8eM4vbWvJrefC_a5Vg8g7mzsAYOQQYo3dYWBUUZ0rBmtTrYY4UiIv_VcVtaSx43eIJu9dj5M8FZm4w4khDp3vejI11ZPfRLs6j5JMXGiQH-ONGwMhZZqxtUjaLA/s1600/beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLcCOtZaD5f9BaL4Juj8eM4vbWvJrefC_a5Vg8g7mzsAYOQQYo3dYWBUUZ0rBmtTrYY4UiIv_VcVtaSx43eIJu9dj5M8FZm4w4khDp3vejI11ZPfRLs6j5JMXGiQH-ONGwMhZZqxtUjaLA/s1600/beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Exactly child, exactly.</div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-50136872636818353232015-06-18T13:40:00.000-07:002015-06-18T13:40:19.144-07:00Welcome to the World: Maggie Everett Wolf<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOiGEwIZgERhHQQ-Oq5siLjyQxqcjTBSVqxwiHhiO9ATDZ5xxDC0jJ_qnfh2IL8Eg08Q0GuiAY8yvhtTnQ2c7K203KmUuGUFeqi1edf4KZrcAMVoJrmeWXNXWw-J2d1YZ8JgCCPDf5K0pl/s1600/magggie+mommy+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOiGEwIZgERhHQQ-Oq5siLjyQxqcjTBSVqxwiHhiO9ATDZ5xxDC0jJ_qnfh2IL8Eg08Q0GuiAY8yvhtTnQ2c7K203KmUuGUFeqi1edf4KZrcAMVoJrmeWXNXWw-J2d1YZ8JgCCPDf5K0pl/s320/magggie+mommy+smile.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
And just like that we are a family of 4....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQATcfsPi06PEGte_Kqzp_3OVShLqWLgexEqSdiLhlazqbvwQ_CVQzGuo-C3emnWIVc9Y9Y_jkdl6xXn0PP3Z0KBu-J7ewUywQbh1rh0qMo6VxuzCC9_j4P3wr_qTy8N7Nx7qdjcKaIP8/s1600/muriwai+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQATcfsPi06PEGte_Kqzp_3OVShLqWLgexEqSdiLhlazqbvwQ_CVQzGuo-C3emnWIVc9Y9Y_jkdl6xXn0PP3Z0KBu-J7ewUywQbh1rh0qMo6VxuzCC9_j4P3wr_qTy8N7Nx7qdjcKaIP8/s1600/muriwai+family.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Maggie Everett joined us on March 12th at 1:05 am, weighing 7.6 lbs and 20" long. By the time she arrived, I was 12 days past my due date (Hazel was 15!). Apparently my womb is a mix of hot baked cookies, puppies, and freshly laundered sheets that makes our girls not want to ever come out. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZztAH0v3ox6BoleFf61YJH1MrYwAymCE2wKuJ8UACinTRdM5Y8Ha8VwcFW65ajzUp9JW1F_tgNA-iiO17Ah6XbVvmjb2pmV_mQtWDVdCrm8NTaHACmWRXXAvYRSyvBhQ5BuJcJbKYTyD/s1600/hazel+maggie+hospital.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZztAH0v3ox6BoleFf61YJH1MrYwAymCE2wKuJ8UACinTRdM5Y8Ha8VwcFW65ajzUp9JW1F_tgNA-iiO17Ah6XbVvmjb2pmV_mQtWDVdCrm8NTaHACmWRXXAvYRSyvBhQ5BuJcJbKYTyD/s1600/hazel+maggie+hospital.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
But come out she did - happy, healthy, and with a full head of hair. It was really special to have the same midwife that delivered Hazel, deliver Maggie. Variety is the spice of life, though, so this time I mixed it up and got pain relief. I went au natural with Hazel and well let's just say I can see why people get that little thing called an epidural.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoAxHQKbwL4BWV4KSaANZZATpX-HL8eD6MI-bJANy0DP-i5zojg8EKL12QoaKhlKF5lIu1uie-5jVTzAYwBe50JhQzg45Tj68omc94MJvvLdyCRfRyAGUFGa7OfT8O6vNWqF-7OFH_hYW/s1600/maggie+newborn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoAxHQKbwL4BWV4KSaANZZATpX-HL8eD6MI-bJANy0DP-i5zojg8EKL12QoaKhlKF5lIu1uie-5jVTzAYwBe50JhQzg45Tj68omc94MJvvLdyCRfRyAGUFGa7OfT8O6vNWqF-7OFH_hYW/s1600/maggie+newborn.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Ahh that moment you meet your baby it's truly one of the most amazing moments in life. That part honestly makes me want to have about fifty babies, the other parts well they make me want to stick to the single digits. Hard to believe Maggie is already 12 weeks old.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJTTqAaIUyuilusm47VZ-H7CeBg1JmXpshYtWoZQNkDndbqF82hSyUH3ptrNhRu9wvNpphhhj8tEU7E-j-55GRiYTsAgjNEnSRvNyaLfXqf8rpkzwB9iYB9LqUE86Vj5i85pXCZ59j8vx/s1600/maggie+baby+wolf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJTTqAaIUyuilusm47VZ-H7CeBg1JmXpshYtWoZQNkDndbqF82hSyUH3ptrNhRu9wvNpphhhj8tEU7E-j-55GRiYTsAgjNEnSRvNyaLfXqf8rpkzwB9iYB9LqUE86Vj5i85pXCZ59j8vx/s1600/maggie+baby+wolf.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The past 3 months have flown by and I've found the transition from 1 to 2 kids much easier than the 0 to 1 adjustment. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaDYnZSQp_HB3XSFYjVgxPOVFypbzIx4UevOVUXg0iR4kvhWUYjXazLpTQBdRbjMKS7UScjk_vQVx3J5IKlYmtaisQQv4cRQXZnrSLErkhMd6i5vd3UDPP62-TFmrdBx1MCl1fYbHdmlb/s1600/kt+hazel+maggie+window.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaDYnZSQp_HB3XSFYjVgxPOVFypbzIx4UevOVUXg0iR4kvhWUYjXazLpTQBdRbjMKS7UScjk_vQVx3J5IKlYmtaisQQv4cRQXZnrSLErkhMd6i5vd3UDPP62-TFmrdBx1MCl1fYbHdmlb/s1600/kt+hazel+maggie+window.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
There is still the same amount of spit ups, poos, and sleepless nights, but it's much easier to handle second time around (even with a toddler in tow). People tell you it's temporary the first time, that this stage will pass, and with your second kid well...you can actually believe them. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9nFgm5F4VCnYJrkkUNglBBp9jtAX3plMQN5vr5gzyCygsjqgTEctHjFz_XPpijKbMFLQM1cFjF4-sL9NIrRnJzfAS28FjN-9ODOfSdCGMcu7NAU-tX5nAJaeAg-O2v0-3N0D34DAzk9o/s1600/maggie+thurston+red+couch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9nFgm5F4VCnYJrkkUNglBBp9jtAX3plMQN5vr5gzyCygsjqgTEctHjFz_XPpijKbMFLQM1cFjF4-sL9NIrRnJzfAS28FjN-9ODOfSdCGMcu7NAU-tX5nAJaeAg-O2v0-3N0D34DAzk9o/s1600/maggie+thurston+red+couch.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Shortly after delivery I went to Warkworth Birthing Centre to recoup and get some one on one time with Maggie. Adam and Hazel came to visit and it was great to be back in such a supportive environment. Birthcare is basically like a B & B for new mothers. Located in the country, you get round the clock care, meals delivered to your room, midwifes there to you help establish feeding and answer any questions you may have. And it's all free! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1i6oNUj0OuCqORALLo-QcrcPD08hALGK80dL1hcQ9TeJ3oz0g9JcHBX-fw92qhqo6_bHibXM6J2taUlWcfJ51W66PdCtFg8Ns2wKanldRSBanUbT3SPAiyYOUDuuCPw-S8yd0DoLEop54/s1600/adam+maggie+3+days+old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1i6oNUj0OuCqORALLo-QcrcPD08hALGK80dL1hcQ9TeJ3oz0g9JcHBX-fw92qhqo6_bHibXM6J2taUlWcfJ51W66PdCtFg8Ns2wKanldRSBanUbT3SPAiyYOUDuuCPw-S8yd0DoLEop54/s1600/adam+maggie+3+days+old.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Cultural side note: NZ has a huge breastfeeding initiative and it's just the norm here. So if you are doing something besides that, don't expect to hear Journey's, "Open Arms" playing in your hospital room.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6N76er54Z__ryPlqRkCZm2PyWDNfz-ESjCzJxTwmp70TUDiuvIrY-on8D9gL_xaSgjrS8ax30NsJs5VcbhQLd9oUGfbu0jSQa11fKENkwssXi_msVYYlfc-9moUSK37ukDWpYX5aYQuK-/s1600/katie+warkworth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6N76er54Z__ryPlqRkCZm2PyWDNfz-ESjCzJxTwmp70TUDiuvIrY-on8D9gL_xaSgjrS8ax30NsJs5VcbhQLd9oUGfbu0jSQa11fKENkwssXi_msVYYlfc-9moUSK37ukDWpYX5aYQuK-/s1600/katie+warkworth.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
As great at birthcare was, it was nice to be home. Hazel was so excited to have her new sister under the same roof. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJNxeTGHLOAumSsQ_0WHV0rHk9EI22T0xEGhK8mzNiQvhq8ygXR7OBP9Y4JToCwW3bJz86UuHAGPA29ZJ7Any8qEeAPscgSSutlZXPCPBRqLP15aaTefUtr-UCP34Mqwjs3bkc3YvrXL5/s1600/hazel+kissing+maggie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJNxeTGHLOAumSsQ_0WHV0rHk9EI22T0xEGhK8mzNiQvhq8ygXR7OBP9Y4JToCwW3bJz86UuHAGPA29ZJ7Any8qEeAPscgSSutlZXPCPBRqLP15aaTefUtr-UCP34Mqwjs3bkc3YvrXL5/s1600/hazel+kissing+maggie.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I could regale you with tales of leaky boobs and diaper blowouts but I think we will just hit the highlights picture style. Here's some from the last few months.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sisterly love:</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-Ptriuw7j9fnBodCkjAdwegYlyrVPsIQR5Ix7yC79Mcak1jqCzUKHwva51lWTL723ueo-JgprGDRyR8xM4u1sz7aSCr7Au4XhQ5l_1EXUsnMNlZpS2Entp8DznHm_u0Rkd1jahIF0dGr/s1600/hazel+pushing+maggie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-Ptriuw7j9fnBodCkjAdwegYlyrVPsIQR5Ix7yC79Mcak1jqCzUKHwva51lWTL723ueo-JgprGDRyR8xM4u1sz7aSCr7Au4XhQ5l_1EXUsnMNlZpS2Entp8DznHm_u0Rkd1jahIF0dGr/s1600/hazel+pushing+maggie.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVjgN1w92ixCVTc6A7MQGDXrvpCKBG7tRLze3SoFVtdyBzJQSlrp4nJD96j89VpJZhQCR2w8vqR2cQKIlgrwKwdYbNSsq6RuD06-DYzto_QH8Rg4SAnY4bexlMaZD5lrEriKKtlDKqFiu/s1600/hazel+reading+maggie+sleeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVjgN1w92ixCVTc6A7MQGDXrvpCKBG7tRLze3SoFVtdyBzJQSlrp4nJD96j89VpJZhQCR2w8vqR2cQKIlgrwKwdYbNSsq6RuD06-DYzto_QH8Rg4SAnY4bexlMaZD5lrEriKKtlDKqFiu/s1600/hazel+reading+maggie+sleeping.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mother's Day "pup pup" outing:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX76AlqFTBj8vOnx-JWQ4u5SAB73h3hyphenhyphenlAl9Kj881Yb1NH6zx8kuJq8go4Esnpjlle6sMEnvpNN0-DrrshzrH2h6uHewTC8T3UVt_uydxiWc7egnjRW2YOCyUBuV2fYwxkTP2x7jdati4A/s1600/hazel+kt+pup+pup.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Swingin': </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkptedomV1akbz41xx5Rkxi7a32nA0xQcBZC6mZwuajje8jbulPlEz_AZZnD4pTmMAYnpOlcKz1gQZRQdAK9taVc0mPKLmdnY1RoV4VZAIgpeVwW5oAEUmFUt3bI_Nw2Ynlex2B6xCXqHJ/s1600/hazel+swing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkptedomV1akbz41xx5Rkxi7a32nA0xQcBZC6mZwuajje8jbulPlEz_AZZnD4pTmMAYnpOlcKz1gQZRQdAK9taVc0mPKLmdnY1RoV4VZAIgpeVwW5oAEUmFUt3bI_Nw2Ynlex2B6xCXqHJ/s320/hazel+swing.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A visit from "Gaga," Adam's mom:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSF9YrL7DHXIsvjcQ8cNQJK0nqnQsBJ_7sJsacUzNnNw-3YSPfIW_36qKr8pGqQLXEiMYwG6k7as31dM0XCQr81HZXavPbh9xbKNFAup5Llo3Z6Jvbr9jwMbSoFopTGArsqfZvK446FLvE/s1600/gaga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSF9YrL7DHXIsvjcQ8cNQJK0nqnQsBJ_7sJsacUzNnNw-3YSPfIW_36qKr8pGqQLXEiMYwG6k7as31dM0XCQr81HZXavPbh9xbKNFAup5Llo3Z6Jvbr9jwMbSoFopTGArsqfZvK446FLvE/s1600/gaga.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Trips to the park:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd4Rjxp9dJJaYH-fnfiLKq7U4OrlNipvSuQSsZ4xvGtlDWzkFxTtXIKh7PfUv-ETuHa8l-4Ul9vn9E19QNmIkkCLcK1_AbR6i-oaEPU-MSO4FNVmYtuPfHQxQRKH0EzkIyVug3vI9imaA/s1600/rothesay+bay+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd4Rjxp9dJJaYH-fnfiLKq7U4OrlNipvSuQSsZ4xvGtlDWzkFxTtXIKh7PfUv-ETuHa8l-4Ul9vn9E19QNmIkkCLcK1_AbR6i-oaEPU-MSO4FNVmYtuPfHQxQRKH0EzkIyVug3vI9imaA/s1600/rothesay+bay+family.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of our favourite stops, Juicy ice cream in Kumeu:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAXf0kNWGsNJ6trKlR3TOFEu_l0vGapY4JBYEqV9dOlMKCmfQiJDW3PoroFKJ1-NzYKrehK8edyijifjmV8OK1Nt7Ek1dygQ3sq99vkFWZvDk-8rfLkgJ0L2HspZmNKWcDvfLKB6Amg04_/s1600/hazel+ice+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAXf0kNWGsNJ6trKlR3TOFEu_l0vGapY4JBYEqV9dOlMKCmfQiJDW3PoroFKJ1-NzYKrehK8edyijifjmV8OK1Nt7Ek1dygQ3sq99vkFWZvDk-8rfLkgJ0L2HspZmNKWcDvfLKB6Amg04_/s1600/hazel+ice+cream.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hazel's first pony ride:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKn3qW2VxkBMXCO5-U9wO8hWaQl35abEVgZwpzt7dpaZfu6ddjcIfY7M5KfZxEPVl-aVP61tCELkKhKwjvjX5nZUyirWiZY2WH2FPiozUCv0Jk7uY4jWXRgLSFaS3ReKClPNEDzZ6zmHWZ/s1600/hazel+pony+ride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKn3qW2VxkBMXCO5-U9wO8hWaQl35abEVgZwpzt7dpaZfu6ddjcIfY7M5KfZxEPVl-aVP61tCELkKhKwjvjX5nZUyirWiZY2WH2FPiozUCv0Jk7uY4jWXRgLSFaS3ReKClPNEDzZ6zmHWZ/s1600/hazel+pony+ride.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Still loves her scooter:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOFL4ROaU6k3dkwKNqN2Fp7KT_uwAFoYIB7L0_tuFFRLfuH5PDVKWL0Htmwk1sSbhbzahwukvLqkpK3EFzcY_DwFMyjzGzl7mWJ2z-VUkXALVyOS8Sig5FXFoOVQzs7wn76Z-Pw3jrE4CC/s1600/hazel+scooter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOFL4ROaU6k3dkwKNqN2Fp7KT_uwAFoYIB7L0_tuFFRLfuH5PDVKWL0Htmwk1sSbhbzahwukvLqkpK3EFzcY_DwFMyjzGzl7mWJ2z-VUkXALVyOS8Sig5FXFoOVQzs7wn76Z-Pw3jrE4CC/s1600/hazel+scooter.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They start out so small:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOAehr-ZyDoIa61WmBJUWy7TkyHdf5p1ZqMY6tke4VUzi67HvpYhX-1LUbDep5BCVUrXYqZijyjUJTg7FzcNdOk8SSU7Nkocq5kDAdDtklZxRaSB59xrFgppZwAx_oj73e9qL0Mc_YKLHm/s1600/maggie+stretch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOAehr-ZyDoIa61WmBJUWy7TkyHdf5p1ZqMY6tke4VUzi67HvpYhX-1LUbDep5BCVUrXYqZijyjUJTg7FzcNdOk8SSU7Nkocq5kDAdDtklZxRaSB59xrFgppZwAx_oj73e9qL0Mc_YKLHm/s1600/maggie+stretch.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ahh those first smiles:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5dJPVUiN_ieK5lo0eoZ9eCPriSHnkleuirtBc7md7cnR2Wlj8xoLnmTDxVEc5jlKHbdK3CUiTb90PqJBT3o2ELGho5gdjJaq8DhyBUTucTvNOvvckEcvC_R7Q1L6YQlCLbpnjtm-s1Xd/s1600/maggie+smiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5dJPVUiN_ieK5lo0eoZ9eCPriSHnkleuirtBc7md7cnR2Wlj8xoLnmTDxVEc5jlKHbdK3CUiTb90PqJBT3o2ELGho5gdjJaq8DhyBUTucTvNOvvckEcvC_R7Q1L6YQlCLbpnjtm-s1Xd/s320/maggie+smiling.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ptGG5rrcbZghwNuSYdkzjKpgBHl7QopflFJq-uxvn69_9n5KH9X2LONB0NZ4Fw1h2iVSUKFpilFibKkqlGTAMzciD3auurG-Ifweh_yVVrcQ8Z1c996lLd0aXX8iN6leu5rFRmVBPOhq/s1600/maggie+purple+smiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ptGG5rrcbZghwNuSYdkzjKpgBHl7QopflFJq-uxvn69_9n5KH9X2LONB0NZ4Fw1h2iVSUKFpilFibKkqlGTAMzciD3auurG-Ifweh_yVVrcQ8Z1c996lLd0aXX8iN6leu5rFRmVBPOhq/s1600/maggie+purple+smiling.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Almost as sweet as the newborn cuddles:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhK0pP2sfUExKeL2jzItSdc1zKpJJJDK-VVh_24fa6-4pOWnjcKz-WCqDfLsMB-QgKoLLM008RXwVV0HHGIl3ZR7UODXL8YyMYSMilXrymMj_sRRHm2E6XWoPqi4Y1obJ1ucvSMfkHUs9d/s1600/kt+maggie+cuddle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhK0pP2sfUExKeL2jzItSdc1zKpJJJDK-VVh_24fa6-4pOWnjcKz-WCqDfLsMB-QgKoLLM008RXwVV0HHGIl3ZR7UODXL8YyMYSMilXrymMj_sRRHm2E6XWoPqi4Y1obJ1ucvSMfkHUs9d/s320/kt+maggie+cuddle.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And right before your eyes they go from a newborn to a baby:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsKYKNTQhIkDD4fKpRMz6ngoJMkonn34tknCpi-y_jS1j6bqn4pDkE9qZEhJjtvzzJ3RCRkGBI31K1e8cRv22E56FXV9tRmekb1dhKVgQ1fllqGhe-H7aIF3v9m37HUFn2GwzcRcVKCuL/s1600/maggie+stars+blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsKYKNTQhIkDD4fKpRMz6ngoJMkonn34tknCpi-y_jS1j6bqn4pDkE9qZEhJjtvzzJ3RCRkGBI31K1e8cRv22E56FXV9tRmekb1dhKVgQ1fllqGhe-H7aIF3v9m37HUFn2GwzcRcVKCuL/s1600/maggie+stars+blanket.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maggie 2 months old:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbuXkhBWOlcJlGPgN8tLhWeF3JbStiDI1vmV12rITTugORU-_Qh97TQw7d2I_pPG5keQAIADCWZ63X0c3sXf3pgvuvVkjMyHPsiiPscQtUYjGfxNUB_wDa38auvu3UCpDsb2TAII2Q6Ck/s1600/maggie+2+months+old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbuXkhBWOlcJlGPgN8tLhWeF3JbStiDI1vmV12rITTugORU-_Qh97TQw7d2I_pPG5keQAIADCWZ63X0c3sXf3pgvuvVkjMyHPsiiPscQtUYjGfxNUB_wDa38auvu3UCpDsb2TAII2Q6Ck/s1600/maggie+2+months+old.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now 3 months old:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHz86oSH4y8p-I9hyeyb9YZ3vBnKB49kYu-cE9ZNdV_OPeWWsn9nTKubj8lAiT3-UZUq7MhulOidh42IpTo8K6sUZ6F5iNaRSjwbvyZpEdEvA-CQf_Wl1V6NY5cckxDKgNopcFyJH_WDuS/s1600/maggie+3+months+and+a+few+days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHz86oSH4y8p-I9hyeyb9YZ3vBnKB49kYu-cE9ZNdV_OPeWWsn9nTKubj8lAiT3-UZUq7MhulOidh42IpTo8K6sUZ6F5iNaRSjwbvyZpEdEvA-CQf_Wl1V6NY5cckxDKgNopcFyJH_WDuS/s1600/maggie+3+months+and+a+few+days.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Making friends:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nlz6ep0rr_TAT3xxFsX2KKsmJi7BHlXLt2NHeT5L6IPIIjE487ttocDt8MsjbxWIC1PLGJ9Ldci8fw2BgwhnBVx55-c4BKwWYG5LWTy9Bg7hVuNNMDadYYCZliR-p_M9oZcgqHwacUcB/s1600/maggie+and+friend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nlz6ep0rr_TAT3xxFsX2KKsmJi7BHlXLt2NHeT5L6IPIIjE487ttocDt8MsjbxWIC1PLGJ9Ldci8fw2BgwhnBVx55-c4BKwWYG5LWTy9Bg7hVuNNMDadYYCZliR-p_M9oZcgqHwacUcB/s320/maggie+and+friend.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And no post would be complete without a scenery shot:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhKkvufu3pP4TbQBmjhu1R8MwNk61_zOlZBOKIoGg7lFyi7ZrwejlFviT8uhFw4MV39KgFnrsDUWaO3IiJS4wTT33KWaI3lFkMdE1vyP_gAZEN5yHWfrGjJXO1gULiia81ZxGnsC5cxNY/s1600/scenery+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhKkvufu3pP4TbQBmjhu1R8MwNk61_zOlZBOKIoGg7lFyi7ZrwejlFviT8uhFw4MV39KgFnrsDUWaO3IiJS4wTT33KWaI3lFkMdE1vyP_gAZEN5yHWfrGjJXO1gULiia81ZxGnsC5cxNY/s1600/scenery+shot.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-7501466510473312072015-03-04T11:13:00.000-08:002015-03-04T11:24:00.943-08:00Waiting for a Baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't believe it's already March and we are heading into Autumn here in the Southern Hemisphere. I could say I can't believe I'm still pregnant, but I can. I was so late with Hazel that I've been preparing myself for that elusive due date to come and go, and come and go it has. The whole waiting for a baby thing is an excellent test in patience and self control, as in literally not torching the three maternity items that still fit me and I can comfortably move in. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfeD1bGTeiH8WZr2OAmZsowWrepRCcIkoaQliyEwg_KNkOoQ1L0U3cb6NK2vO6jqsCC8GZ2Kyt4owpJRftdEl6Sucmbr-WBgEFcYKm1cevjWS1UqdEXiQMm9xR4WWjU1BW3DMFPWUBsSx/s1600/kt+ferry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfeD1bGTeiH8WZr2OAmZsowWrepRCcIkoaQliyEwg_KNkOoQ1L0U3cb6NK2vO6jqsCC8GZ2Kyt4owpJRftdEl6Sucmbr-WBgEFcYKm1cevjWS1UqdEXiQMm9xR4WWjU1BW3DMFPWUBsSx/s1600/kt+ferry.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Speaking of torching, did you know Kiwis call flashlights torches? I didn't for a long time. When we first moved here we got these great books called NZ Frenzy which highlight all these cool, off the beaten path hikes and adventures. I would flip through the book to pick out possible places to explore, but I was often put off by certain locations since the author suggested bringing a torch. I kept imagining King Arthur and Guinevere and finally vented to Adam, "I mean who has a torch these days." Adam kindly told me that flashlights are called torches here. Right.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnK4XIBrV9_77PDFyMAZkucgZoOWSbW3JZarYW-4FowL5im1A0zOrrHT6TzHiBWXDVHq33RyCWCW_JznDjAZ1weSPd2wJvVKQkvL0BQuzANvdrtLsk0oBllt_53eKi2c_mfbdxQ-Ixn4TC/s1600/frenzy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnK4XIBrV9_77PDFyMAZkucgZoOWSbW3JZarYW-4FowL5im1A0zOrrHT6TzHiBWXDVHq33RyCWCW_JznDjAZ1weSPd2wJvVKQkvL0BQuzANvdrtLsk0oBllt_53eKi2c_mfbdxQ-Ixn4TC/s1600/frenzy.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But I digress. Back to the current state of affairs, me barefoot and pregnant. There was a time I thought the summer heat might bring me down, but alas it didn't. Thank goodness for swims in the ocean. Overall, I can't complain. I've truly had a fantastic pregnancy and am so excited to meet our new baby whenever he or she decides to enter the world. In the meantime, here's a few pics from the past couple months.</div>
<br />
Hazel turned 2: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OEQj1brnD0ZIkbhHw8rUeIO6hNcu_hOSds2WYa8N8-6GJd19rcGedfX2d2Og4-3nfScxOiNyTPrx6C-5YRSWX_htuIbAXGmnqHbGf6R2hYTM87dpspbdAJQ-hKH2oAhcPn4_mgCjNShO/s1600/hazel+bday+tutu2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OEQj1brnD0ZIkbhHw8rUeIO6hNcu_hOSds2WYa8N8-6GJd19rcGedfX2d2Og4-3nfScxOiNyTPrx6C-5YRSWX_htuIbAXGmnqHbGf6R2hYTM87dpspbdAJQ-hKH2oAhcPn4_mgCjNShO/s1600/hazel+bday+tutu2.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She got a scooter which she LOVES to ride:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsPtYVbjpMCr5rtwOArxVqfL4ICC6PH8IXXtoy0QQvw7PpzHRZ5X6kFwUcSJcLbenDFRdTeECWQXZd7sf1lMGEmSzYaLA3P7i3K4jv9NbQYRcjqMA7gLJOFcPC_iE3pTY9Te7UDrDfQCZ/s1600/hazel+pjs+scooter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsPtYVbjpMCr5rtwOArxVqfL4ICC6PH8IXXtoy0QQvw7PpzHRZ5X6kFwUcSJcLbenDFRdTeECWQXZd7sf1lMGEmSzYaLA3P7i3K4jv9NbQYRcjqMA7gLJOFcPC_iE3pTY9Te7UDrDfQCZ/s1600/hazel+pjs+scooter.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We spent New Years Day at the beach:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6SFY5c-UedMXePGphOYFIA5yMbBOXEqCJrmqSiXuc0yFRcX_Efcn7CQ-tumViQbgDtqEU2ZKGLbtqIZb0OhGhMBopZ3vCxJh3Z7CjqtgJM1loKn7lA-60i6MZW8RizmVNbQyca9bozLM/s1600/kt+hazel+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6SFY5c-UedMXePGphOYFIA5yMbBOXEqCJrmqSiXuc0yFRcX_Efcn7CQ-tumViQbgDtqEU2ZKGLbtqIZb0OhGhMBopZ3vCxJh3Z7CjqtgJM1loKn7lA-60i6MZW8RizmVNbQyca9bozLM/s1600/kt+hazel+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I think we might be ruined for life because this is the beach we walk to when we can't be bothered to do anything else. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHGhVsqkmKfCvK6Ukzq0QrzOqvqA0cCWxKkGErzM6QvbXlkLT1Ey7zBl9ss_OUc4Daf3v3rJJ0GlCV2gBUAb3mir7r9S1N_xyCaPEaojee-txUkzLdbFr0Mt2pIsAGqknS-sqe-Z9KC4Z/s1600/hazel+adam+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHGhVsqkmKfCvK6Ukzq0QrzOqvqA0cCWxKkGErzM6QvbXlkLT1Ey7zBl9ss_OUc4Daf3v3rJJ0GlCV2gBUAb3mir7r9S1N_xyCaPEaojee-txUkzLdbFr0Mt2pIsAGqknS-sqe-Z9KC4Z/s1600/hazel+adam+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Days at the park:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDAaQeTlVd3Tr1fUBNwpEt_H58GmbPvnXe_eFNtlXFIxdLEuz6noV41OWHOO_0e92uC9Z78XWTNjsAJAa0JbivL8i1PVlElPWf6TKkH7DkMGlawEN98ZC6p_Lp8ZSGmlWTcFqn_yrkR04/s1600/hazel+ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDAaQeTlVd3Tr1fUBNwpEt_H58GmbPvnXe_eFNtlXFIxdLEuz6noV41OWHOO_0e92uC9Z78XWTNjsAJAa0JbivL8i1PVlElPWf6TKkH7DkMGlawEN98ZC6p_Lp8ZSGmlWTcFqn_yrkR04/s1600/hazel+ball.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hanging out with friends:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCn_9KKxzIoHz0vqShdFUhqgFnzjtNWDc9cX-oGDShCaA7BbcIFkD2fxSFEEhZ32_En0LLsG0W22HHRq_KZuLfJvQb_71RDXQh9BGevRLukB7AD9iWyhBVFmfKo0wEdvOTe8_2n30o_Jsr/s1600/hazel+harry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCn_9KKxzIoHz0vqShdFUhqgFnzjtNWDc9cX-oGDShCaA7BbcIFkD2fxSFEEhZ32_En0LLsG0W22HHRq_KZuLfJvQb_71RDXQh9BGevRLukB7AD9iWyhBVFmfKo0wEdvOTe8_2n30o_Jsr/s1600/hazel+harry.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Loves to wear her gumboots even when it's not raining:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6wPoXiJyJ7NM9QosjKvNF173Mgg8OseLgIFZnE0qvRw75AQFAJHn3NI_R8VjtbbGqXk5EpxInVkqQUMHUKkjG7CA2s12SapypOVEbNY2Y8tvZ64oYOpiBdZR4CALdt9hwojxoFuBMdJq/s1600/Hazel+gumboots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6wPoXiJyJ7NM9QosjKvNF173Mgg8OseLgIFZnE0qvRw75AQFAJHn3NI_R8VjtbbGqXk5EpxInVkqQUMHUKkjG7CA2s12SapypOVEbNY2Y8tvZ64oYOpiBdZR4CALdt9hwojxoFuBMdJq/s1600/Hazel+gumboots.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lots of coffee and scone outings with my girl:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRYsmGlhaRikBxAoGjb4OjLH-qHF8XHqUOWN8SUUKAvRYONBEkxgNXSzKYKzJryk-UEzf_a5yUGeuyOYl3TjIqvrNQTAzMWUZHGqDLDqVxoDFzIhoZsBYR2Rk54cPbk9aujCPVQdeZVgn/s1600/Hazel+scone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRYsmGlhaRikBxAoGjb4OjLH-qHF8XHqUOWN8SUUKAvRYONBEkxgNXSzKYKzJryk-UEzf_a5yUGeuyOYl3TjIqvrNQTAzMWUZHGqDLDqVxoDFzIhoZsBYR2Rk54cPbk9aujCPVQdeZVgn/s1600/Hazel+scone.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No shortage of kid friendly cafes:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35mF5A9IXAz0Fe_2E1m_Tb8h6RPViBxeuSFeVCQ7hD3pb-SEiyrP_MmEnVv89DUc1smQgYCQ8PahhmCoqIqBsXt5Mn2KNmfqevjoq5iI5KEKTwwB_N55F8AP1IAEpu3tR9dV3m14vOX-C/s1600/hazel+stripes+cafe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35mF5A9IXAz0Fe_2E1m_Tb8h6RPViBxeuSFeVCQ7hD3pb-SEiyrP_MmEnVv89DUc1smQgYCQ8PahhmCoqIqBsXt5Mn2KNmfqevjoq5iI5KEKTwwB_N55F8AP1IAEpu3tR9dV3m14vOX-C/s1600/hazel+stripes+cafe.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Baking at home is always a treat:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Z-GRVxGiYN0MIX7nAY80vIk-hmRBCHHgSDsgw3iR23JFmzTwyxsalkgjjm3yc83Mk2SJuo1pR0IC8dRjmdnlzoYYUNxzwxuO78uHvfhwAHUMVidsCEduSzsgpRKCARbjDuCjU2lzqw5I/s1600/hazel+kt+baking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Z-GRVxGiYN0MIX7nAY80vIk-hmRBCHHgSDsgw3iR23JFmzTwyxsalkgjjm3yc83Mk2SJuo1pR0IC8dRjmdnlzoYYUNxzwxuO78uHvfhwAHUMVidsCEduSzsgpRKCARbjDuCjU2lzqw5I/s1600/hazel+kt+baking.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fun at the farmers market:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcsShf8MBrVf4BTnK-bkiWPNWaAdRDWKLmUOIOOS-swa4LQD1wY3Y4ELBea3LaVdQq5osVMEFMm7mkgmMfnhI20FEYjilpqTiy3ti9tSU99BKNAa0Hr1kf8InJ_QYPaLbErlT__68A8ep/s1600/hazel+tutu+farmers+market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcsShf8MBrVf4BTnK-bkiWPNWaAdRDWKLmUOIOOS-swa4LQD1wY3Y4ELBea3LaVdQq5osVMEFMm7mkgmMfnhI20FEYjilpqTiy3ti9tSU99BKNAa0Hr1kf8InJ_QYPaLbErlT__68A8ep/s1600/hazel+tutu+farmers+market.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A view from Adam and Hazel's AM walks (they go every morning!) :</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSlGB8vmXzJkUFZtK17jnGZQ3CtTdkzteYei4TbtXJ6q_YBdWwOYPUaIqoL-gmJDCYn65sGzNklQ7m8Wl2V0NjN4zigwGFFV-rRZ4DsG1408DwEskWj6miTxeXA3qS2PuZtRUjHa_vptRy/s1600/sunrise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSlGB8vmXzJkUFZtK17jnGZQ3CtTdkzteYei4TbtXJ6q_YBdWwOYPUaIqoL-gmJDCYn65sGzNklQ7m8Wl2V0NjN4zigwGFFV-rRZ4DsG1408DwEskWj6miTxeXA3qS2PuZtRUjHa_vptRy/s1600/sunrise.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A day out at the aquarium:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhyphenhyphenzg4nJy2frOdGqVd2QMSSvJpqW5ktC-R6tSUcUk-IOkBR2DORZYyPEhpHAa5cte-vodjTcjQVk5rRaxuhhPfDNE2uLl55G8Qsyce0B4TlpMMAqKdE3GAAsRzcRqhAX-jwx7F2UK_-Jj/s1600/hazel+adam+aquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhyphenhyphenzg4nJy2frOdGqVd2QMSSvJpqW5ktC-R6tSUcUk-IOkBR2DORZYyPEhpHAa5cte-vodjTcjQVk5rRaxuhhPfDNE2uLl55G8Qsyce0B4TlpMMAqKdE3GAAsRzcRqhAX-jwx7F2UK_-Jj/s1600/hazel+adam+aquarium.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtJYDUsCWRMe0MAuOlq0pTBjAAR_L4updSzl4UIA9zq2CGKZp3Z-B03l6sWjtd_C5QW3Fh95ePHfLzBXajSMPtUvHbNN-QcIKlBav2iIreF1O7rxFrFwNM2ODYXOwCPM7-1qw3rQJm1m4/s1600/hazel+shark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtJYDUsCWRMe0MAuOlq0pTBjAAR_L4updSzl4UIA9zq2CGKZp3Z-B03l6sWjtd_C5QW3Fh95ePHfLzBXajSMPtUvHbNN-QcIKlBav2iIreF1O7rxFrFwNM2ODYXOwCPM7-1qw3rQJm1m4/s1600/hazel+shark.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Practicing up for her new big sister role:</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2JleR7_yLWyKaHqodSlrs7fuZcp7ZqK9-yM1rsy7saOpSlnMWZinXb7alvd6_cPXu9rOT3sqUWmd9vlzhOBqFL_8udBn6p_co0wyFQINStB1ET7eaySv53HVq52LArh_qnJNxNTizR1C6/s1600/hazel+baby+carrier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2JleR7_yLWyKaHqodSlrs7fuZcp7ZqK9-yM1rsy7saOpSlnMWZinXb7alvd6_cPXu9rOT3sqUWmd9vlzhOBqFL_8udBn6p_co0wyFQINStB1ET7eaySv53HVq52LArh_qnJNxNTizR1C6/s1600/hazel+baby+carrier.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I think she would scoot everywhere if she could: </div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1PuA4ieJ-avW1BsVqERi8Rj6t3D189T36bXwLTB06mB1KVApB0Bn5L-DYokgT38FwgJ9aiqdtwfVKvVwaZOy0F71GSb1EEw8U4UTigzxeXADHfqvrrg8C-vFu_oxxMw6LUzvTkiJ3eGLk/s1600/hazel+scooter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1PuA4ieJ-avW1BsVqERi8Rj6t3D189T36bXwLTB06mB1KVApB0Bn5L-DYokgT38FwgJ9aiqdtwfVKvVwaZOy0F71GSb1EEw8U4UTigzxeXADHfqvrrg8C-vFu_oxxMw6LUzvTkiJ3eGLk/s1600/hazel+scooter.jpg" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In honor of my due date, we took the ferry into the city to get gelato: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0GS3bpdkqIdA7hbBTX8qvG_KHxM6q4OfdxO6eDJp8c1EJHq4IQolyRSrWy41HmN1Xq24K07cmFgBIS-i0-XmveR29w3jue7DkK6PcRscgt6NnBwzh-UqU21qeiSdcIJyhI2UAPsQOGnh/s1600/hazel+kt+icecream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0GS3bpdkqIdA7hbBTX8qvG_KHxM6q4OfdxO6eDJp8c1EJHq4IQolyRSrWy41HmN1Xq24K07cmFgBIS-i0-XmveR29w3jue7DkK6PcRscgt6NnBwzh-UqU21qeiSdcIJyhI2UAPsQOGnh/s1600/hazel+kt+icecream.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The original baby in my life: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXfVCDZd8oYqKjZL5pKeIcoNkKclis_T7y1STr6GeaqatUY3_UyK31JdpCGPYP8SWm7Jl8dTqa09wAUQ-VCrBm0ckhYiXRE_c69VoWQv3kZGG6XjeQoiucXLhyphenhyphenP39SVUFuYbwGg2LtwOG/s1600/Thurston1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXfVCDZd8oYqKjZL5pKeIcoNkKclis_T7y1STr6GeaqatUY3_UyK31JdpCGPYP8SWm7Jl8dTqa09wAUQ-VCrBm0ckhYiXRE_c69VoWQv3kZGG6XjeQoiucXLhyphenhyphenP39SVUFuYbwGg2LtwOG/s1600/Thurston1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Only a few more days (hours??) until we are a family of 4.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3w1V2-JZkjmDM7LV7zZZnoclNqH2JVB2c83jOEPk9bXA1aHPA6sGRzlG6ntlb1ocrroqKfOdYBpPRDPJB8kKKOfuwXnICCsGlLoUuiCJTEDGs5NlXz5xrYN82gLtZYLqBn41V0XxJfp0/s1600/hazel+kt+rose+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3w1V2-JZkjmDM7LV7zZZnoclNqH2JVB2c83jOEPk9bXA1aHPA6sGRzlG6ntlb1ocrroqKfOdYBpPRDPJB8kKKOfuwXnICCsGlLoUuiCJTEDGs5NlXz5xrYN82gLtZYLqBn41V0XxJfp0/s1600/hazel+kt+rose+garden.jpg" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-3547362522543285802015-01-15T10:54:00.000-08:002015-01-15T10:54:35.717-08:00Holly Jolly Christmas in FijiI find the whole living a million miles from home around the holidays kinda depressing, so this year we decided to do the only sensible thing I could think of and spend Christmas in Fiji. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRa-HWSe8j3yMV2xy-_sCUD6bk4Wd6VOu_5eipfI3dohJhtqYSQA7sVpmqAIsN97NvMq1wRmI-VlCkMotV5pwQypcacyLK3PkCrwkd66p1TSALg8pgHFwZ1v0ere7cnkm4UR0iyBtnQXC-/s1600/south+seas+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRa-HWSe8j3yMV2xy-_sCUD6bk4Wd6VOu_5eipfI3dohJhtqYSQA7sVpmqAIsN97NvMq1wRmI-VlCkMotV5pwQypcacyLK3PkCrwkd66p1TSALg8pgHFwZ1v0ere7cnkm4UR0iyBtnQXC-/s1600/south+seas+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We wanted to go some place that was easy to get to, toddler friendly, but also had that I'm on a tropical vacation and we are going to live it up before this other baby gets here vibe (6 weeks to go now!). Voila Fiji. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYNyQtYdZ3i42wAUWtPWWBwHLXbUV5SC026PXH5EoQdmKyoN2Km6uCMqhRW-Bo3WVpTpM2a_Kz9O0BSSG6c8bxw9cL0fl4HoPhvClxgEjYQ8Af6PXVHCZsQQScspbZJI60uFaep3HToEF/s1600/hazel+yellow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYNyQtYdZ3i42wAUWtPWWBwHLXbUV5SC026PXH5EoQdmKyoN2Km6uCMqhRW-Bo3WVpTpM2a_Kz9O0BSSG6c8bxw9cL0fl4HoPhvClxgEjYQ8Af6PXVHCZsQQScspbZJI60uFaep3HToEF/s1600/hazel+yellow.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It is literally the closest place you can fly to outside of New Zealand, even closer than Australia. It's an easy, direct 3 hour flight from Auckland to Nadi. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jwviFoebwsC9__p95ES0qlvACO7g4eqVV6h9WUYTnM-2rt07eNXLR78pX82LYh-H8uxSV3c5B5xPk7uKDznGXZjsAWe30XGWRmbaT_XtaFLEaYrloJEg5T2cyk70Qic8sHNRvw807v78/s1600/palm+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jwviFoebwsC9__p95ES0qlvACO7g4eqVV6h9WUYTnM-2rt07eNXLR78pX82LYh-H8uxSV3c5B5xPk7uKDznGXZjsAWe30XGWRmbaT_XtaFLEaYrloJEg5T2cyk70Qic8sHNRvw807v78/s1600/palm+tree.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Adam and I had been once before when I was pregnant with Hazel and stayed on one of the smaller islands which was great, but this time since we had miss thing with us we decided to go the resort route and stay on the main island. Breakfast buffet and crab races anyone? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzcb9Dj-ke3utHBTGyMKmf7hCPYS_JkXBkbEJkWERwjThds7HHmMOnuzXCPgRws4at6gt6Wwl3ZVl2wX05RqEIWohmKhVedIqs-l3fQqlGQF4lcbKedG4qQElKzAQGSfEOpy87mhZ1qKc/s1600/family+sunnies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzcb9Dj-ke3utHBTGyMKmf7hCPYS_JkXBkbEJkWERwjThds7HHmMOnuzXCPgRws4at6gt6Wwl3ZVl2wX05RqEIWohmKhVedIqs-l3fQqlGQF4lcbKedG4qQElKzAQGSfEOpy87mhZ1qKc/s1600/family+sunnies.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It was actually a lot of fun. I should have know it was going to be a good trip when as we were boarding they upgraded us to first class (sittin' next to Vanna White). No Vanna wasn't there, but I know all of the middle aged men who actually paid for their first class tickets were very happy to see a family with a toddler sharing their cabin space. Clearly we were psyched. Hazel even had her own seat, that turned into a bed of course.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8s_1Lm-YwcG212p3iGms4BBMZN1nuqyhPs0VBu30KOLRxxQgWr0Rvkl4boMlw-xzs6wGQuibtnymRGgf6eHvFfFwz_iktPEPSEhMJSL2UsGF4DM_lZOTQFSqkY-dD2APtvmtYPOWcvNeq/s1600/hazel+1st+class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8s_1Lm-YwcG212p3iGms4BBMZN1nuqyhPs0VBu30KOLRxxQgWr0Rvkl4boMlw-xzs6wGQuibtnymRGgf6eHvFfFwz_iktPEPSEhMJSL2UsGF4DM_lZOTQFSqkY-dD2APtvmtYPOWcvNeq/s1600/hazel+1st+class.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But alas we couldn't stay in first class forever and had to get on with our Fijian holiday. It was sum sum summertime and we spent a lot of time in the pool. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpSbeOl1E2NOuoWjQcnrsQ1C0ZcHWy2oDfIuwkBbpMGPzHfM1TAo7FU7Zo22yJd8E5pxc-chvzMlDOMKxEgQGwGMaIuc6Ol5AOD6xGzXJuUu6G2fNn3IDUZNNEJCglBZakUONuIX69cWe/s1600/hazel+pool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpSbeOl1E2NOuoWjQcnrsQ1C0ZcHWy2oDfIuwkBbpMGPzHfM1TAo7FU7Zo22yJd8E5pxc-chvzMlDOMKxEgQGwGMaIuc6Ol5AOD6xGzXJuUu6G2fNn3IDUZNNEJCglBZakUONuIX69cWe/s1600/hazel+pool.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
People had told us before we went that Fijians loved kids, but nothing could have prepared me for what we experienced. Everywhere we went all the Fijian people treated Hazel like they had never been happier to see a child before, I'm talking grown men picking her up and kissing her and just overall joy oozing from every Fijian when they came in contact with a baby or young child. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEBg99fAPdyZBfNDyLTREXoj_5FZ9srUV1Cd7G5BrPaJBsUhz_ND59PVRSuPTCB_TD_jA7t6Y2fEf72vPF7kG9CqUcymzN3moa1mYFyMKO5FNyyP3DcMGagh-NYRO5UrFfdjJroDbz90s/s1600/hazel+silhouette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEBg99fAPdyZBfNDyLTREXoj_5FZ9srUV1Cd7G5BrPaJBsUhz_ND59PVRSuPTCB_TD_jA7t6Y2fEf72vPF7kG9CqUcymzN3moa1mYFyMKO5FNyyP3DcMGagh-NYRO5UrFfdjJroDbz90s/s1600/hazel+silhouette.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In any other situation it would have weirded me out, but in this case it was remarkable and made our vacation that much more relaxed and fun. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5DzH9uLfzv7HbPMeElqFwHBngJljkDfWdE_oLT_MA2trXRSJsQ2HAAKPNIBsGMl7UcpvsbhWmGjRoSFlZWfwYzDmUZmxMyff05P-URP1dkNA2_I3_iJrP1Aoyh_EHPMyAqvShV-i3z2_/s1600/hazel+flower+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5DzH9uLfzv7HbPMeElqFwHBngJljkDfWdE_oLT_MA2trXRSJsQ2HAAKPNIBsGMl7UcpvsbhWmGjRoSFlZWfwYzDmUZmxMyff05P-URP1dkNA2_I3_iJrP1Aoyh_EHPMyAqvShV-i3z2_/s1600/hazel+flower+dress.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of Hazel's favorite things to do was to take the Bula Bus around town. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoZL-1s9SOE8hVIeJ40owog6V6eYIx08l3JKuhk8vUkDKggb1V1-x3Vn9WadDh-wtzNbvEy3oU7e_slCsnLOwSgP9ni7tBi0AYxM95_263b_E21GE8GZ1LxWlnHeJcfXiWuPqImh7EFaH/s1600/the-bula-bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoZL-1s9SOE8hVIeJ40owog6V6eYIx08l3JKuhk8vUkDKggb1V1-x3Vn9WadDh-wtzNbvEy3oU7e_slCsnLOwSgP9ni7tBi0AYxM95_263b_E21GE8GZ1LxWlnHeJcfXiWuPqImh7EFaH/s1600/the-bula-bus.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She referred to this woman who took the tickets all week as, "my friend," and would look for her every time a bus passed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSyPg5DVDeOZpKbq-ozvDzKGoPWKpnrNBjt6fX7U9AkPf99fID-WgMv-1MHxh1Z2kYq3ZCZZIAg7EoGWoHFSTPAxlcGcWKgVGZLt2UvvCuVn_dXnrbFo2T6FNFsIPo0ZbppP2fxIG-GHJ/s1600/hazel+bula+bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSyPg5DVDeOZpKbq-ozvDzKGoPWKpnrNBjt6fX7U9AkPf99fID-WgMv-1MHxh1Z2kYq3ZCZZIAg7EoGWoHFSTPAxlcGcWKgVGZLt2UvvCuVn_dXnrbFo2T6FNFsIPo0ZbppP2fxIG-GHJ/s1600/hazel+bula+bus.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mostly we just went to the pool, hung out, and read a lot. Naps were taken and relaxation was made a top priority.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2K9u1fLf8jmDvxEZUlFys40XampQZeXYeJWB1ZTFVZqHrUs7EMkWo5csSZKtMvbkn8V00LhrZjedMbXprUxOArGxCQ-mteC9CpHi2FuN9V2y2au7FJ_cUPXc3l4XCWLfKQsQlJOrJo3U/s1600/hazel+bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2K9u1fLf8jmDvxEZUlFys40XampQZeXYeJWB1ZTFVZqHrUs7EMkWo5csSZKtMvbkn8V00LhrZjedMbXprUxOArGxCQ-mteC9CpHi2FuN9V2y2au7FJ_cUPXc3l4XCWLfKQsQlJOrJo3U/s1600/hazel+bed.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There was that one day I did water aerobics and the time on Christmas day when I decided to participate in an egg race, where I balanced an egg on a spoon while racing against mostly 6-12-year-olds. I don't know about anybody else, but I find a certain sense of freedom being massively pregnant. I mean not this free, but pretty free.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZkyy-5mBkk6xUlwRyVMUOnuGGXkiKbhGa_O42RXnqd38g4cvyF53U1ze_KVz6CPSl2sUmNN6CviqbuOqhajIOthh6dvScqB_AYGcdT7r_OYJfFk1bzS5SNqWryqiEgLWMkBtPGQG-yzi/s1600/hazel+naked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZkyy-5mBkk6xUlwRyVMUOnuGGXkiKbhGa_O42RXnqd38g4cvyF53U1ze_KVz6CPSl2sUmNN6CviqbuOqhajIOthh6dvScqB_AYGcdT7r_OYJfFk1bzS5SNqWryqiEgLWMkBtPGQG-yzi/s1600/hazel+naked.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One day we did venture away from our place and take a boat to one of the smaller islands. We went to the South Seas Island which, although only 30 minutes away, really gave us a taste of that Castaway meets the Bachelor kind of location feeling. Our greeting committee when we got off the boat: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0y6YaU_I9HslhXv1NplPigUERDG9Q71FjuJuS1zYJcSfj88VamU9qg5MaYA6B0GQTA6Th4Tkv6NUF6FA6VXNchof3HBJBvQKsezK4JyidHylsWKkd2wbSFUIsvjj34I7LERusPDsYav9/s1600/south+seas+greeters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0y6YaU_I9HslhXv1NplPigUERDG9Q71FjuJuS1zYJcSfj88VamU9qg5MaYA6B0GQTA6Th4Tkv6NUF6FA6VXNchof3HBJBvQKsezK4JyidHylsWKkd2wbSFUIsvjj34I7LERusPDsYav9/s1600/south+seas+greeters.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was great because they provided a free kids club so we got to drop Hazel off while we did some snorkeling. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpj5SER7aC9x1v9dtk4WnoHELAzU9ElMLs4d_jwPz5W5TQ750m7rNJf6atHyh4dN4OHWQArb5G4gx7LNyVoDCyad-9u6nYzg2jv3m8Bh2WWvavpwY-Qs_EfhFqsHHNViSmp5a2NTGzR3m/s1600/kids+club.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpj5SER7aC9x1v9dtk4WnoHELAzU9ElMLs4d_jwPz5W5TQ750m7rNJf6atHyh4dN4OHWQArb5G4gx7LNyVoDCyad-9u6nYzg2jv3m8Bh2WWvavpwY-Qs_EfhFqsHHNViSmp5a2NTGzR3m/s1600/kids+club.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Otherwise it was business as usual.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUuWl6E43X1SoZX-8nJ7_gHthyZk6ogbnUPQ3AIRuBEQVJB00eAX7uj82LRk8aldFXq2DjhKk2QdnRxRhL1wfr4262s6ZyrRqknKHbBBXGIMCyM7gLoDeKyUevjs7llqrT0uCPZgreoSQT/s1600/hazel+kt+south+seas+hut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUuWl6E43X1SoZX-8nJ7_gHthyZk6ogbnUPQ3AIRuBEQVJB00eAX7uj82LRk8aldFXq2DjhKk2QdnRxRhL1wfr4262s6ZyrRqknKHbBBXGIMCyM7gLoDeKyUevjs7llqrT0uCPZgreoSQT/s1600/hazel+kt+south+seas+hut.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I wasn't sure what to expect doing an island Christmas, but if you can't be home with your actual family this certainly was a fun way to do it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8t27cDXEKjjjasX-foriDh6Np_m2CyTpxCQUBZRcdR2momnv9vNzdEKauREVB69YQWWhynxrmJ4gT9UphNL15OJOpnlpB9xoWpWJ4BKxqYLB_rfUmToczQp8nD2ZCbf0GSWKSLMQjtV5Q/s1600/hazel+carolers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8t27cDXEKjjjasX-foriDh6Np_m2CyTpxCQUBZRcdR2momnv9vNzdEKauREVB69YQWWhynxrmJ4gT9UphNL15OJOpnlpB9xoWpWJ4BKxqYLB_rfUmToczQp8nD2ZCbf0GSWKSLMQjtV5Q/s1600/hazel+carolers.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They had carolers each night and a big Christmas tree in the lobby. We packed a few presents for Hazel to open Christmas morning, it was easy and completely stress free. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdium0OR5f9DkbdENI2aehg6y_FoX5ba2avuvD48oVHhgHZUaRaGDsDYFqmHt2LmF6PKKZ6Hj6nSSlL6HKz5uxEa4MjMlJvf4TDIWpsSio4Rv0e3FIDvwSGcygvcgdXL8h62MfMqu4mvwp/s1600/hazel+christmas+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdium0OR5f9DkbdENI2aehg6y_FoX5ba2avuvD48oVHhgHZUaRaGDsDYFqmHt2LmF6PKKZ6Hj6nSSlL6HKz5uxEa4MjMlJvf4TDIWpsSio4Rv0e3FIDvwSGcygvcgdXL8h62MfMqu4mvwp/s1600/hazel+christmas+tree.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had a couple great meals at the Flying Fish and got some serious R & R in, overall a super way to end 2014.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbfDW3sYvkL-CuxnU6l5q4zECmnsy7DHthNJ60nDmPqYQPjuEXEqCau9BPsGVEj4ffoiQ65ubwv56ncNZ5BaFfbgPQBYSyyVwqK_x97L6td2-4lmtGKUUe0_yH11FUlf-FRTXoCu05rhu/s1600/family+airport+shuttle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbfDW3sYvkL-CuxnU6l5q4zECmnsy7DHthNJ60nDmPqYQPjuEXEqCau9BPsGVEj4ffoiQ65ubwv56ncNZ5BaFfbgPQBYSyyVwqK_x97L6td2-4lmtGKUUe0_yH11FUlf-FRTXoCu05rhu/s1600/family+airport+shuttle.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-26081404805783203162014-12-02T11:52:00.001-08:002014-12-02T11:52:28.779-08:00Auckland in the Springtime<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiL9PGUqXhFc1hfw7m0DTPkRR4tkMd_I9psaIEHevdu7BCZI2Az5bmyJgCAQL_f3E8R9_KZMbyWD3vCJwDXRue8mXT4RzFKc7PT6_-PtPDSYcUWXC1XOQBiOU94Xy-ovsHNAlthYv_OZc/s1600/hazel+beach+stripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiL9PGUqXhFc1hfw7m0DTPkRR4tkMd_I9psaIEHevdu7BCZI2Az5bmyJgCAQL_f3E8R9_KZMbyWD3vCJwDXRue8mXT4RzFKc7PT6_-PtPDSYcUWXC1XOQBiOU94Xy-ovsHNAlthYv_OZc/s1600/hazel+beach+stripes.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Greetings from beautiful New Zealand! Spring has sprung in the Southern Hemisphere and we are now heading into summer. I have just entered my 3rd trimester (woot woot!) and Hazel is going to be 2 next month. Where does the time go? And to boot, this week marks my 3 (gasp!) year anniversary in Auckland. Holy guacamole. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippFmxPcK3qcInJhyh0BTZqAPGYzPywpKaC034Ttv7fWX23Dg04iuZidWHO7WB3SvTvVGdeT_LiLiVJIwod9AyAVpMB-0w3ZFoPpowJIf9mjKP1U4kPq8d-NIgJmCGNWmwQH7bVk9kNs6T/s1600/hazel+skytower+view.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippFmxPcK3qcInJhyh0BTZqAPGYzPywpKaC034Ttv7fWX23Dg04iuZidWHO7WB3SvTvVGdeT_LiLiVJIwod9AyAVpMB-0w3ZFoPpowJIf9mjKP1U4kPq8d-NIgJmCGNWmwQH7bVk9kNs6T/s1600/hazel+skytower+view.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Thankfully I've been blessed with another good pregnancy. Of course it's not without its hormone surges, back aches, and high level of ice cream consumption. I am growing another human for goodness sake and it can't live on lettuce alone. As much as life continues on as normal, pregnancy does change things. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcBfclHBPJFQb-QJM_RgFLuDSnQeli3IwCMU_L1D0u133onYB7h7QdxiMNxdefOMf2jr2rmSmI9FeH7DyozZ5rFn_CcMB4Gsj2iitmwTnIvP9W7HIEHURHyXveF9H-CiCOdjwGTEk1i_X/s1600/Hazel+dogbowl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcBfclHBPJFQb-QJM_RgFLuDSnQeli3IwCMU_L1D0u133onYB7h7QdxiMNxdefOMf2jr2rmSmI9FeH7DyozZ5rFn_CcMB4Gsj2iitmwTnIvP9W7HIEHURHyXveF9H-CiCOdjwGTEk1i_X/s1600/Hazel+dogbowl.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
We had bought concert tickets a while ago for a show at Town Hall, a venue I was looking forward to checking out, not to mention the great seats we had and the 8pm show start time. But then I got an email which might as well have been titled: Pregnant Woman's Worst Nightmare because it said 1. the location had been changed to a standing room only venue and 2. the artist wasn't coming on until 10:15pm. What were they going to tell me next, bathrooms were an additional charge, off sight and port a potty inspired? <br />
<br />
It took me about 24 hours of trying to convince myself that I could make this fun and that I wasn't dead yet just pregnant before I was on the phone pleading my case with Ticketmaster - "Please don't make me do this! This is not what I signed up for! I can't be that far from my bed after 9 at night!" Of course all this translated in a warm, but professional I mean business sort of way. When the door to the concert closes, one to your couch opens. Shockingly Ticketmaster had mercy on my pregnant soul and refunded us our money. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitUVR8qG5PksVr2yfxmNhVycVHnitKwO4ydb5YNqGuK33Up2BKQ46XyZOEWkqK0TPN2RX-fAssn0sDVZ3hURLftzqZDyUdXa35KB_9syCLR0hCWJ6YZpHGwTccxxq7VaiQJxmFHxiaDw10/s1600/hazel+playhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitUVR8qG5PksVr2yfxmNhVycVHnitKwO4ydb5YNqGuK33Up2BKQ46XyZOEWkqK0TPN2RX-fAssn0sDVZ3hURLftzqZDyUdXa35KB_9syCLR0hCWJ6YZpHGwTccxxq7VaiQJxmFHxiaDw10/s1600/hazel+playhouse.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Good thing since I recently paid $2.50 for a lime. A single lime. You would have thought at that price it would at least come with a Corona. Three years in and I still get sticker shock periodically. Good thing my American friend Alicia came over from Melbourne to visit me back in October. We could reminisce in person about our days in college and what it was like to pay a normal price for produce. Alicia and I have been friends for years and since she now lives in the Southern Hemisphere we are one of each others only friends that really can just come over for a weekend, something you treasure being this far away. It was awesome to have her here. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6avpccs1ccc3InOriWPHoHiukwDnJeUh-0xhIxVNdfKQWc9qv-lrbk4waYg3KPoZnpjjlEYZtvYfqALGFFEmHruWS3Q7mLHlfI_GPBVsXbxvWZUUJr0iXNxzFnQgO40z1SzPjzRFLBKu9/s1600/hazel+alicia+katie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6avpccs1ccc3InOriWPHoHiukwDnJeUh-0xhIxVNdfKQWc9qv-lrbk4waYg3KPoZnpjjlEYZtvYfqALGFFEmHruWS3Q7mLHlfI_GPBVsXbxvWZUUJr0iXNxzFnQgO40z1SzPjzRFLBKu9/s1600/hazel+alicia+katie.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
In other news, I've been volunteering with an organization called Thrive, co-facilitating a teen mother's group out in Henderson. Ever since having Hazel, single parents and teen parents have been heavy on my mind and heart. It was quite a small group and seeing these young girls with their babies was quite inspiring. And unexpectedly, made me really excited for our own 2nd one because man they are so little and so cute and getting to cuddle newborns once a week is pretty sweet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3fxNmhYOKKGupGpaEsK9r7lK3uEbhfKvavA0-2OddXiAXHCxsDJX8rnBhx5-K9l1eD6bgWWWAwoNq7R0W1hPskG3RM2cHRc6y1V5HOowAmPEizzAjKUM1XUZ9V1Dtz4bAPU_s8eFUity/s1600/thrive.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3fxNmhYOKKGupGpaEsK9r7lK3uEbhfKvavA0-2OddXiAXHCxsDJX8rnBhx5-K9l1eD6bgWWWAwoNq7R0W1hPskG3RM2cHRc6y1V5HOowAmPEizzAjKUM1XUZ9V1Dtz4bAPU_s8eFUity/s1600/thrive.png" /></a></div>
<br />
It was an interesting experience and nice to do something semi-professional. When I was pregnant with Hazel I knew my life would change, but only in an abstract way because you can't really know to what extent until you go through it. So this time I'm aware of some of the changes coming my way and feel a sense of urgency to live life to the fullest, minus late night concerts of course. My vision for my current life does not include what happened to me last week though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghV5mTRprk241X_pGMu7RmdrwYU5DTKCtu4-MYFgdGYkTg-SPcpNXLGTTFdXk5tU7o8RpmEwICpu1Fa1hSlVzURsrPTl5atZpUvukeG9prnoghn9hurGZovUGmjju9QuC55hP7_5PHfVkC/s1600/hazel+creche+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghV5mTRprk241X_pGMu7RmdrwYU5DTKCtu4-MYFgdGYkTg-SPcpNXLGTTFdXk5tU7o8RpmEwICpu1Fa1hSlVzURsrPTl5atZpUvukeG9prnoghn9hurGZovUGmjju9QuC55hP7_5PHfVkC/s1600/hazel+creche+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Picture it. Auckland 2014. It's a rainy Monday morning and Hazel and I are heading to her little gym class (Olympics 2036 watch out!) and I grab my raincoat as I head out. Now I haven't worn this coat in forever, but it was hanging up in my closet which indicated to me a level of ready to wearness that I don't expect from the pile on my floor where I usually get most of my clothes from. So I put the raincoat on and head out. We get to class and after putting my bag down I take the hood down and raincoat off, but still feel something on my head. Strange I think so I reach up so investigate this phantom hood and from the top of my head I pull off a pair of underwear. I wish I made this story up for entertainment purposes only, but alas this is my actual life. I urge you, please check your raincoat for underwear so that you too don't end up a victim like me. <br />
<br />
When I'm not embarrassing myself in public, this is what else we've been up to the past few months. Since my life revolves around my child the following will be copious pictures of her.<br />
<br />
Ooh first I almost forgot - Halloween. Kiwis forgot it permanently up until a few years ago. It's really just taking off here so everyone that is our age didn't grown up trick or treating. Now those people have kids and it's starting to become more popular so they are trying to figure out what this holiday is all about. We didn't see any pumpkins or house decorations, just a handful of people dressed up. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-58fozt9i3yRQ-ERcaqjrdD3-vICB0FuP6ODiJG1K_VnQPtxWsZU0wLN3tTuohXiNYysKY4-ELigKb9DXhAylltzQUwxzWmZjPT2FWbMsT2VNKDzYJ4OdzY_eIXpr0mcLLOxUtpiONyu/s1600/hazel+halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-58fozt9i3yRQ-ERcaqjrdD3-vICB0FuP6ODiJG1K_VnQPtxWsZU0wLN3tTuohXiNYysKY4-ELigKb9DXhAylltzQUwxzWmZjPT2FWbMsT2VNKDzYJ4OdzY_eIXpr0mcLLOxUtpiONyu/s1600/hazel+halloween.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I really wasn't expecting anyone, so much so that when two teenage-ish boys came to the door in grim reaper masks I was certain death truly was knocking and it was my time to go. I quickly recovered and thankfully had some mini Snickers on hand to throw their way. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-lbk3zJbnQzNW05NdarF0bpqn-hrZfhiO4RZwFNcqiwHj-PwFD5W59bX517fSl6oK1J2CzBSNbUrb-Kgl50Jt36tdL3Y8E9tz4ANeCfxnq4JEZUYeDxSwcyX83XCvvg0MjPQdYJNiiid/s1600/hazel+daddy+halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-lbk3zJbnQzNW05NdarF0bpqn-hrZfhiO4RZwFNcqiwHj-PwFD5W59bX517fSl6oK1J2CzBSNbUrb-Kgl50Jt36tdL3Y8E9tz4ANeCfxnq4JEZUYeDxSwcyX83XCvvg0MjPQdYJNiiid/s1600/hazel+daddy+halloween.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We ended up taking Hazel to a few houses in our neighborhood and I gotta say she loved it, but what's not to love about strangers and candy? And Strangers with Candy (1999-2000) for that matter, I mean how great is Amy Sedaris. Maybe I'll be Jerri Blank one year. Anyway, back to our life lately...<br />
<br />
Butterfly Creek:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IVMKIRXG2m49M5oqEGnMhHkVfnAcaK1ACfzMGdZb0NfKHtcPOwBnGJFmDS_uNlFm8a7C0zjbi-lrdl71QwQxu2H2a1hZqbEPnNNWG8pN5pR4XfIubhnffH7Acx4PlRuI6PkkeEK6pI5P/s1600/hazel+butterfly+creek+train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IVMKIRXG2m49M5oqEGnMhHkVfnAcaK1ACfzMGdZb0NfKHtcPOwBnGJFmDS_uNlFm8a7C0zjbi-lrdl71QwQxu2H2a1hZqbEPnNNWG8pN5pR4XfIubhnffH7Acx4PlRuI6PkkeEK6pI5P/s1600/hazel+butterfly+creek+train.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOthWogZda4dy41Ta4vYWfyKM13ZKH8C4x7qIqEylxqWpCCsIRAvIWMqm7dsJsXhL69p4S489X0apK0g8rw4TX6_jnqu_-h7CKo1kXozHT0GfQj9OkXQOydb6HZ3upVXM2MA8WN_kV-3J/s1600/hazel+butterfly+creek+roar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOthWogZda4dy41Ta4vYWfyKM13ZKH8C4x7qIqEylxqWpCCsIRAvIWMqm7dsJsXhL69p4S489X0apK0g8rw4TX6_jnqu_-h7CKo1kXozHT0GfQj9OkXQOydb6HZ3upVXM2MA8WN_kV-3J/s1600/hazel+butterfly+creek+roar.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Hitting the local trails:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4FGmAoqL2swhxmATh5M5nhHYAYeOjD-VEEjm8N8VwgzZWYB3L_ypzSfsyU6JC4CQiBVAHK_UJQv_C6DTvYYY-A4KkH0yRq2x9IB4UBx2Hw2hLu4zHoRE5IB2wVofqv8YTGWVJoL3exQt/s1600/hazel+bayswater+trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4FGmAoqL2swhxmATh5M5nhHYAYeOjD-VEEjm8N8VwgzZWYB3L_ypzSfsyU6JC4CQiBVAHK_UJQv_C6DTvYYY-A4KkH0yRq2x9IB4UBx2Hw2hLu4zHoRE5IB2wVofqv8YTGWVJoL3exQt/s1600/hazel+bayswater+trail.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Exploring new playgrounds:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4AMeOtsx3u70mjlT2Bx29P1cIvrRVAFq-EgZWMlwiO3KAKwlUX39Cxr5NyBZv8n4x1bHb_WvnJswBMXcOVMXXUCubCUKcqqn7EC9dZz9BSZIAHY_OJYh34NQOtPNoinfiMFOPDq_7sTe/s1600/hazel+playground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4AMeOtsx3u70mjlT2Bx29P1cIvrRVAFq-EgZWMlwiO3KAKwlUX39Cxr5NyBZv8n4x1bHb_WvnJswBMXcOVMXXUCubCUKcqqn7EC9dZz9BSZIAHY_OJYh34NQOtPNoinfiMFOPDq_7sTe/s1600/hazel+playground.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwJps75MjGprhuJ_XJxlIErPPKrwQWIO3KwP62YaKRfcbZHKkVp-5NoUQntJAPhjxC03oVRj0NJH9ENnFYZK9-sW7jsETd7CfjovdB588PU88F_L2BNugdPgBfVpO12rN_rYwSzqo8PVk/s1600/hazel+motat+car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwJps75MjGprhuJ_XJxlIErPPKrwQWIO3KwP62YaKRfcbZHKkVp-5NoUQntJAPhjxC03oVRj0NJH9ENnFYZK9-sW7jsETd7CfjovdB588PU88F_L2BNugdPgBfVpO12rN_rYwSzqo8PVk/s1600/hazel+motat+car.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieihr-GyfBs_EEJ0WyHXlE4JoYAAvS3r5qP77ps0PqBLgIhJFxz_q_mgJvy5MWCMILHgj4nyTE315xSMF1Zjsb11LrwDr2hZ4cpPWFnf3GsvUy_vUH7dIkcWaGfxp-Gd1JSm41zEsTq76/s1600/hazel+motat+train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieihr-GyfBs_EEJ0WyHXlE4JoYAAvS3r5qP77ps0PqBLgIhJFxz_q_mgJvy5MWCMILHgj4nyTE315xSMF1Zjsb11LrwDr2hZ4cpPWFnf3GsvUy_vUH7dIkcWaGfxp-Gd1JSm41zEsTq76/s1600/hazel+motat+train.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Trips to the beach:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8vr7K_YLEOFyDEatczjW63LlJhX-E5idn_IKKXqeiKcgPFYMKurUtwLa7Iy3KpIj7SMdGMcWsYFon5-Jnj5_pN82fxLmRNzA2psetzFSHyR6YbGdgl6ITYeH32RK3Ozg9FyKmaWPM-m5/s1600/hazel+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8vr7K_YLEOFyDEatczjW63LlJhX-E5idn_IKKXqeiKcgPFYMKurUtwLa7Iy3KpIj7SMdGMcWsYFon5-Jnj5_pN82fxLmRNzA2psetzFSHyR6YbGdgl6ITYeH32RK3Ozg9FyKmaWPM-m5/s1600/hazel+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Whangaparoa Railway:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVktA1ZYzjMyjRRRNML569e9OhzWjTqYIseAMKswazQzDGsyUs73PC1S2n1pfnoYMZ18LR8_hCBpGPEz_Un2Aty6NZBSQNi4_yGepLbpseCRVHdQBI1r-WM1lqGavoUnQbBmNO1jkN8b-n/s1600/hazel+whangaroa+railway+firehose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVktA1ZYzjMyjRRRNML569e9OhzWjTqYIseAMKswazQzDGsyUs73PC1S2n1pfnoYMZ18LR8_hCBpGPEz_Un2Aty6NZBSQNi4_yGepLbpseCRVHdQBI1r-WM1lqGavoUnQbBmNO1jkN8b-n/s1600/hazel+whangaroa+railway+firehose.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZBNhd-C0j3tqXkW1SHMx9Q_YFU7kRteD3_6DddReYBQuANynZZrjrDEaN6coOD6MSaAydytrNfszBPXr3L3wgcr73Pt7E4XdS588MCTtin7FCU198SzwBFULGl_Dn2G1V4kUGtw3ICGF/s1600/hazel+railway+chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZBNhd-C0j3tqXkW1SHMx9Q_YFU7kRteD3_6DddReYBQuANynZZrjrDEaN6coOD6MSaAydytrNfszBPXr3L3wgcr73Pt7E4XdS588MCTtin7FCU198SzwBFULGl_Dn2G1V4kUGtw3ICGF/s1600/hazel+railway+chair.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Practicing up for her new role:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdYz5VgoUMy2SpjTvu2AN2pAtGC2hyM4ssivIufbuWJEwCR5MZWBUmOCW2Bb5R5PplCodNVkuKTRNDlfc-eqP5yWqeLLDSCzEp05bpxDRR1YW0LmNMZ7HeRzgFVcDgfOHsp8zkpu9G1al/s1600/hazel+feeding+baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdYz5VgoUMy2SpjTvu2AN2pAtGC2hyM4ssivIufbuWJEwCR5MZWBUmOCW2Bb5R5PplCodNVkuKTRNDlfc-eqP5yWqeLLDSCzEp05bpxDRR1YW0LmNMZ7HeRzgFVcDgfOHsp8zkpu9G1al/s1600/hazel+feeding+baby.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hazel 23 Months:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9tCvpl1BAGe90yt5KKH4_K2fFIhtsFGQRrCNdO5KoqaO76tfx1tmO_A9m0ftcnwgX6nfhp4Vo7qdiRYPjEW2DX8AfHm8COjUFAyvfvzyAEadRf8czx_b6GyGZ3aOQiolr3DY4R4zj95f/s1600/hazel+23+month+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9tCvpl1BAGe90yt5KKH4_K2fFIhtsFGQRrCNdO5KoqaO76tfx1tmO_A9m0ftcnwgX6nfhp4Vo7qdiRYPjEW2DX8AfHm8COjUFAyvfvzyAEadRf8czx_b6GyGZ3aOQiolr3DY4R4zj95f/s1600/hazel+23+month+B.jpg" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-42298784564313892092014-11-03T11:25:00.000-08:002014-11-03T11:25:33.555-08:00G'day Mate: A Long Weekend in SydneyAs I was standing in front of the Sydney Opera House, I was thinking this has to be one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It's iconic really and quite remarkable in person. As much as I love finding those hidden gems when travelling, it's so exhilarating to see something in the flesh that you have seen so many times in pictures alone. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KFNV1pk2YrYklCpaBvUv2sBNXpUZP1z-Rs_kwyEGw0PONmkd3awlNQCrbTOMybwaPurp4C-shK6EjHBQhBW-Rbnk1AlXJD1VjZrlxNav-UD8lBs9Yj8LzvojIAW-UyDHNtQE17B9sb4h/s1600/Opera+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KFNV1pk2YrYklCpaBvUv2sBNXpUZP1z-Rs_kwyEGw0PONmkd3awlNQCrbTOMybwaPurp4C-shK6EjHBQhBW-Rbnk1AlXJD1VjZrlxNav-UD8lBs9Yj8LzvojIAW-UyDHNtQE17B9sb4h/s1600/Opera+House.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Sydney is a beautiful city. It was recently Labour Day here in New Zealand so we decided to take advantage of the long weekend and head to someplace we'd never been before. Sydney is 3 hours and change from Auckland. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2neJbHHIHKvTSwsL-bRVGR48IyF275yhZNEfNrpYDCMYwXFsOyqcnl-G1hyphenhyphengr1oa26EkIa6NBXLv66Gxn1aW8JgW3KhWzQxmyIYmFxWeAkAoHdq4wQ8p_uckViP9UYaEfv9zrrlPZT8h4/s1600/Backpack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2neJbHHIHKvTSwsL-bRVGR48IyF275yhZNEfNrpYDCMYwXFsOyqcnl-G1hyphenhyphengr1oa26EkIa6NBXLv66Gxn1aW8JgW3KhWzQxmyIYmFxWeAkAoHdq4wQ8p_uckViP9UYaEfv9zrrlPZT8h4/s1600/Backpack.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Hazel loves the airport and we love the fact that the Air New Zealand lounge has a kids room. This thing is priceless, especially when travelling internationally and you have those two hours to kill before your flight.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeDvtPuAXb1YI5EGAXBnY4b6SjUkwNlGrI9PZ1v1LWqZGOfk9wZvzEvK2WOHBuo3PGLYIzTlxofzILTs30ArVb0j5wl0G896e1i57UTppWdt1qevWf-Zh8NJnMxvsXMDtXHHmCVKcF8rK/s1600/Koru+Club.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeDvtPuAXb1YI5EGAXBnY4b6SjUkwNlGrI9PZ1v1LWqZGOfk9wZvzEvK2WOHBuo3PGLYIzTlxofzILTs30ArVb0j5wl0G896e1i57UTppWdt1qevWf-Zh8NJnMxvsXMDtXHHmCVKcF8rK/s1600/Koru+Club.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It also meant I could eat my Krispy Kreme donuts in peace. I was beyond excited to stumble upon the famous doughnut maker in the Sydney airport. I did pay an exorbitant $2.50 for each original glazed. Back when I was a kid you use to be able to get a whole dozen for $3.99. I can almost see the Hot Doughnuts sign flashing after church now...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZjPj51xZ1pqrQF5dhFnRvQemLGKkJGcVj83TcFx009inLdNs8GCBO_mVYWR-2ADu62CcNxi36skaaSCu-DL6ogT8jG9z5OVOEExFcwQMTWJeuRPr8P4tP0gJhBawDo0y6GWa6RJk-EXl/s1600/Krispy+Kreme.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZjPj51xZ1pqrQF5dhFnRvQemLGKkJGcVj83TcFx009inLdNs8GCBO_mVYWR-2ADu62CcNxi36skaaSCu-DL6ogT8jG9z5OVOEExFcwQMTWJeuRPr8P4tP0gJhBawDo0y6GWa6RJk-EXl/s1600/Krispy+Kreme.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Sydney, besides being one of the most expensive cities in the world and the place where Michael Hutchence of INXS died, is full of nice beaches, great shopping, and lovely restaurants with sweeping water views everywhere you turn. At least that's what it felt like, I mean even the zoo had amazing views.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZbHLp88mNn-gotFXxuP0vCiQDq5kKSRAOOi_iM-o17Im_5EjpQDoNkL1XHRPa-yvb5olhuWumTCOkXZlU-emNZrbKzq43NxsybTh9e0fJJdVeFqKJlfgWN-4-lIshwzCvYEDowjUB5Ws/s1600/Hazel+Zoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZbHLp88mNn-gotFXxuP0vCiQDq5kKSRAOOi_iM-o17Im_5EjpQDoNkL1XHRPa-yvb5olhuWumTCOkXZlU-emNZrbKzq43NxsybTh9e0fJJdVeFqKJlfgWN-4-lIshwzCvYEDowjUB5Ws/s1600/Hazel+Zoo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The animals were pretty cool too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJM_aS5qvKQfH33_w9K5NJR9hpY86e_Kg65HBT7eoGRVGwByI3kqzi4arbHESV3YKbM1KcWiVzIUrAxpOnes0qgcIcxTwUXIyu9FJM3adaV1BygP3JT5pjCQEgy-vD_km2IYuqiCbmhBJ/s1600/Tiger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJM_aS5qvKQfH33_w9K5NJR9hpY86e_Kg65HBT7eoGRVGwByI3kqzi4arbHESV3YKbM1KcWiVzIUrAxpOnes0qgcIcxTwUXIyu9FJM3adaV1BygP3JT5pjCQEgy-vD_km2IYuqiCbmhBJ/s1600/Tiger.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You take a ferry to get there!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4l_juJDab8twMs0zu1aFgagWLfOeyrAqcHqeZJ7z9WaT114oZzKEkQ9SkYemYGK6lG48UPMeWcbNWDzn8RUVGiEwxpWjoF4bL5kO_WTIV-P1BcRt3n1c7GK71iMGkG4t_E-RV0AtI0GI/s1600/Hazel+Katie+Boat+laughing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4l_juJDab8twMs0zu1aFgagWLfOeyrAqcHqeZJ7z9WaT114oZzKEkQ9SkYemYGK6lG48UPMeWcbNWDzn8RUVGiEwxpWjoF4bL5kO_WTIV-P1BcRt3n1c7GK71iMGkG4t_E-RV0AtI0GI/s1600/Hazel+Katie+Boat+laughing.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I love a good boat ride, to me it makes everything more magical. If only the dentist and DMV were accessible by boat only, how our world might be different. <br />
<br />
It's a very easy city to get around with good public transportation and since we were staying downtown we didn't need a car. We walked A LOT. <br />
<br />
Opera House check.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVD1KowiW-BtUjXN4xhQBp107c3WSeBvhYqzZyb-zZawnVIpe_4WVPtY76o2QVeUYvS9XhlEGMtYiqfqq7sqdv6Sw5eNshAhFLbqY5aV5rADWNoNl4iE9DbDtqi5nc4IWOg9GqgPRd8Dh/s1600/Hazel+Katie+Opera+House.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVD1KowiW-BtUjXN4xhQBp107c3WSeBvhYqzZyb-zZawnVIpe_4WVPtY76o2QVeUYvS9XhlEGMtYiqfqq7sqdv6Sw5eNshAhFLbqY5aV5rADWNoNl4iE9DbDtqi5nc4IWOg9GqgPRd8Dh/s1600/Hazel+Katie+Opera+House.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Botanical Gardens check (did you know Kiwis don't say check, they say tic?)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuA-vnf_Z0i_utTrWRntpcsfPPCzHY-fhB6NpleshmArK01yzokOJsYjEzwJRLXKdt75No-IbF3fZKFJ_IuviDtQymyBcutoqXIApcvX7C3U_iLIFnZrS0rRgZuyAgrH-gnNatWts-RmPl/s1600/Hazel+Botanical+Gardens.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuA-vnf_Z0i_utTrWRntpcsfPPCzHY-fhB6NpleshmArK01yzokOJsYjEzwJRLXKdt75No-IbF3fZKFJ_IuviDtQymyBcutoqXIApcvX7C3U_iLIFnZrS0rRgZuyAgrH-gnNatWts-RmPl/s1600/Hazel+Botanical+Gardens.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DCULegg9zSkum8sBVD46GhTh6EPcPhL829C3nOCeNbfzNGj-DBeW4PiI9wNMhIo8YzvMW2OunBcbpJXrbZfEl4tcW2awW7kkzqQvFnEIk74hj8_tmVeTQ31qKDOUfZ_rvXN-kDXZ4UNw/s1600/Hazel+Rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DCULegg9zSkum8sBVD46GhTh6EPcPhL829C3nOCeNbfzNGj-DBeW4PiI9wNMhIo8YzvMW2OunBcbpJXrbZfEl4tcW2awW7kkzqQvFnEIk74hj8_tmVeTQ31qKDOUfZ_rvXN-kDXZ4UNw/s1600/Hazel+Rose.jpg" /></a></div>
Bondi Beach check. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8PmQ7QsexHV4nBzJRwx7mpax4ydPkhHO91rfD19lVfwtRZfny56N2Yd2mouY8TtvFOYIivKfnvgMO_Vkuy_b-3lZQ9LllrpGDHSnOk7Ny6fv-FfI4OhzZMD3TiRLBbfGA9ZngM4aPIfI/s1600/Bondi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8PmQ7QsexHV4nBzJRwx7mpax4ydPkhHO91rfD19lVfwtRZfny56N2Yd2mouY8TtvFOYIivKfnvgMO_Vkuy_b-3lZQ9LllrpGDHSnOk7Ny6fv-FfI4OhzZMD3TiRLBbfGA9ZngM4aPIfI/s1600/Bondi.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The weekend we were there they were having their Sculpture by the Sea exhibit so we did a cliff walk from Bondi to Tamarama to take it all in. The views were stunning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJywHyYwh3RLHvFi6-3gif5mZ5pwf_KoTKf3cHohKW_04XxzfZtTKo-vnvZgBfPYokJ-XjB7zOy5vY8Pan14Re9PSwYSA_LDCERlnG-RchKPTIRY9Z9u_Q-2JJKV9kUi5wCpFNexl0mL8X/s1600/Bondi+Tamarama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJywHyYwh3RLHvFi6-3gif5mZ5pwf_KoTKf3cHohKW_04XxzfZtTKo-vnvZgBfPYokJ-XjB7zOy5vY8Pan14Re9PSwYSA_LDCERlnG-RchKPTIRY9Z9u_Q-2JJKV9kUi5wCpFNexl0mL8X/s1600/Bondi+Tamarama.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
But as they say here in NZ it was chock-a-block, just so many people. Apparently cool sculptures and dramatic ocean views appeal to others besides Adam and me. After almost 3 years in NZ, I gotta say my crowd limits have decreased dramatically. I've gotten so use to living in a place that is underpopulated that when I go to bigger places or events it's often too much (that's code for I get easily irritated). Despite the number of people it was still worth it as the scenery was really spectacular and the company wasn't half bad. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bEbUpFmFM8QLAvEODQF7q29gqQu-HXoPQxka43mfEskz_vka0L-HheH22mrw2055SJ-Y-w_St5-Y1y3EWAwQRDdHDaqLfao47q1gpc8YZ2PT__zF40ESzNMak5ZPYQ03ahoK9AuFZE9i/s1600/Family+Trail+View.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bEbUpFmFM8QLAvEODQF7q29gqQu-HXoPQxka43mfEskz_vka0L-HheH22mrw2055SJ-Y-w_St5-Y1y3EWAwQRDdHDaqLfao47q1gpc8YZ2PT__zF40ESzNMak5ZPYQ03ahoK9AuFZE9i/s1600/Family+Trail+View.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And we always had our hotel to return to, to recharge and relax. Although there was that one time when Hazel and I were in the elevator and I got off and she didn't. As in, our not even two-year-old was riding in the hotel elevator totally alone. It happened very fast and I attempted to used my pregnant superwoman strength to stop the doors from closing, but couldn't do it. FYI, this does not bode well for Hazel if she ever gets trapped under a car. So yes the doors closed and Hazel was on one side and I was on the other. Adam happened to be out getting us lunch during this time. I alerted the hotel staff and they got security on it and assured me that there was people on every floor looking for her.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMRWWVfzDdu1YqcYH5d5_rKCcZIPb89sg3EdkFvccCVMdmERHAXSfGKQk0ml7tjmhvSaQkRW-bjER3bmIgwgZAGxTrrHjOp8HPQnpwjuUj4Q0aGXoTACg3aqPqBwXV-cuaXzabaXewGV0/s1600/Hazel+Hotel+Bed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMRWWVfzDdu1YqcYH5d5_rKCcZIPb89sg3EdkFvccCVMdmERHAXSfGKQk0ml7tjmhvSaQkRW-bjER3bmIgwgZAGxTrrHjOp8HPQnpwjuUj4Q0aGXoTACg3aqPqBwXV-cuaXzabaXewGV0/s1600/Hazel+Hotel+Bed.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
After an exciting ten minutes, I returned to the lobby to find Hazel in the arms of a very nice housekeeper. She seemed to think it was all fun and games and was laughing and smiling when she saw me. She got off on the 6th floor (I had originally gotten off on the 12th floor where our room was) as I'm sure that's one of the only buttons she could reach. Oh sweet Hazel. It gave me such a fright and I was so relieved when I saw here. Shortly after we returned to our room there was a knock at the door and the manager had sent up chamomile tea and fancy bottles of water. Que Iggy Azalea {I'm so fancy I loose my kid in the elevator and get free tea}. Never a dull moment in the hotel world.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54OqOcSjBmSicBHTqivhnGK1EEuG_LU0wU5qZS_ZkcddPcHAt3BLUOKXVqRGfToxx70wtwQANHI5uEoItKi7UkEbh3fiX6j2KP2XfRw-DCHQnbXijD28jP5YzyTA0I3y9bwLFwKKnu-HD/s1600/Bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54OqOcSjBmSicBHTqivhnGK1EEuG_LU0wU5qZS_ZkcddPcHAt3BLUOKXVqRGfToxx70wtwQANHI5uEoItKi7UkEbh3fiX6j2KP2XfRw-DCHQnbXijD28jP5YzyTA0I3y9bwLFwKKnu-HD/s1600/Bedroom.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
In fact, the day before I was at the bar getting my water bottle refilled before heading out for the day and the guy next to me was waiting for his coffee and after being faced with the harsh reality of his coffee 1. not coming in a takeaway cup and 2. having too much milk in it, he actually yelled "f*ck you" at an employee. I mean can you imagine?! What is wrong with people. Well I am a therapist so I can actually answer that, but c'mon. Cringe. <br />
<br />
But back to our non hotel adventures. Sydney had tons of kid friendly stuff to do. We took a gorgeous boat ride through Darling Harbour that went under the actual bridge. That was really cool. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPe3J34oXi6Fnaa5B6ovu4Kg19y-WMbJb5CwZqkMITPGKWFODs_R0YLPIvYG07YLyBfQgYZJ8iIX0cPV7CuVmqXhaasGlT_7J_3n7TI-alTgsLoSbDwubp_53hb2l7WFgH1WsdgHthbMw/s1600/Hazel+katie+Boat+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPe3J34oXi6Fnaa5B6ovu4Kg19y-WMbJb5CwZqkMITPGKWFODs_R0YLPIvYG07YLyBfQgYZJ8iIX0cPV7CuVmqXhaasGlT_7J_3n7TI-alTgsLoSbDwubp_53hb2l7WFgH1WsdgHthbMw/s1600/Hazel+katie+Boat+2.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Hazel loved the playground at Darling Quarter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGi4EVCxcdasD28N-8ca8Up2FExZ24HwJM9FLvOSakwQcMzDJ28TnanL7xxzUQDlxQGo89fQVyd5S11o0zKR-_o1q-tU0YO5vNjLDMPK9n64v27bZ-BBpjnjsfdq6hcEJAr9udLZ9HY6J8/s1600/Hazel+flying+fox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGi4EVCxcdasD28N-8ca8Up2FExZ24HwJM9FLvOSakwQcMzDJ28TnanL7xxzUQDlxQGo89fQVyd5S11o0zKR-_o1q-tU0YO5vNjLDMPK9n64v27bZ-BBpjnjsfdq6hcEJAr9udLZ9HY6J8/s1600/Hazel+flying+fox.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Even warm enough for some water play!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4-VqnjoQNDtgDxZzxlAWXICbSOesLRmcP356G-DsqPLNGSQ30jiQCZw3xWaTXKWDwWJIwxAdBtCSCC9LVe5TfLSQ1LuvKj9eeZdKE5oEgutjv0f2-e0seFtY5a78696rJZ91cN6esRS8/s1600/Hazel+waterplay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4-VqnjoQNDtgDxZzxlAWXICbSOesLRmcP356G-DsqPLNGSQ30jiQCZw3xWaTXKWDwWJIwxAdBtCSCC9LVe5TfLSQ1LuvKj9eeZdKE5oEgutjv0f2-e0seFtY5a78696rJZ91cN6esRS8/s1600/Hazel+waterplay.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Another day we strolled through some local neighborhoods - Kings Crossing. Darlinghurst, Potts Point ( I couldn't help but be reminded of Brooklyn) with a fantastic gelato stop at Messina. We stumbled upon the Night Noodle Markets in Hyde Park. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NKuQvuh6gazDyWLoGzNiVMxB7xnX7XbShL_CJ6iGfhgQyX7tKyqoo7UorDWAE3esh9DNEyPgRM1BbmVzhgPaX-kW7nL9x7GSS_aemoHAXoaXuzowcZWfsc6e6ktQ09umQdLtgKoSQATg/s1600/Noodle+Markets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NKuQvuh6gazDyWLoGzNiVMxB7xnX7XbShL_CJ6iGfhgQyX7tKyqoo7UorDWAE3esh9DNEyPgRM1BbmVzhgPaX-kW7nL9x7GSS_aemoHAXoaXuzowcZWfsc6e6ktQ09umQdLtgKoSQATg/s1600/Noodle+Markets.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Sydney is a great city and one that I would love to return to one day. Perhaps with this guy*?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqZkI2aGN7-QiYbFBSIIvG_26amuEgzHzeyhkQNKtYfH1FscVYHmyomCyg7hp7rEL-83BYpj9pKsMuK2IdPJLvNKB3wX6ONhYPCeCldBZTbjseeBLViou4uFTN38GcCgTOloaIwoOYCRp/s1600/Adam+selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqZkI2aGN7-QiYbFBSIIvG_26amuEgzHzeyhkQNKtYfH1FscVYHmyomCyg7hp7rEL-83BYpj9pKsMuK2IdPJLvNKB3wX6ONhYPCeCldBZTbjseeBLViou4uFTN38GcCgTOloaIwoOYCRp/s1600/Adam+selfie.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*I will take this time to thank the man behind most any of the good pictures on this blog. He's way better at taking pictures then I am so thank you Adam Wolf. </div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-31579992235070446322014-10-21T12:27:00.000-07:002014-10-21T12:27:20.969-07:00Great Barrier Reef: 5 Child-Free Days in Port Douglas, Australia" You don't have to die to be in Heaven." That was the tagline of the resort we stayed in on our recent trip to the Great Barrier Reef. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-9SIn-GQxx5ir1jIpha9oHjkZIhEKq_IyeBaDgs4XBpIMH4_j-tVlLAgArACqRwzJR_gF-M5FA6MEgYO0N5JuvgyxEmrra7zJkGHsnb9JqvUn0bdGC57bD-t2ytnctU7PQbTwLRW7S9C/s1600/mai+tai+viewA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-9SIn-GQxx5ir1jIpha9oHjkZIhEKq_IyeBaDgs4XBpIMH4_j-tVlLAgArACqRwzJR_gF-M5FA6MEgYO0N5JuvgyxEmrra7zJkGHsnb9JqvUn0bdGC57bD-t2ytnctU7PQbTwLRW7S9C/s1600/mai+tai+viewA.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I should have know it was going to be a good trip when I was crying tears of joy before we even left the Auckland Airport. That's apparently what happens when you send me on my first child-free vacation ever, well you know since having a child. Man I love that girl, but whew the time had come to have more then a few hours of adult time. Like I might want to get crazy and shower and use the bathroom alone in the same day. I became overwhelmed with joy after we checked our bags that I didn't physically have to carry anything. That combined with wearing white jeans without fear was enough to bring a tear to my eye. Despite being pregnant I had never felt lighter. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYliDTEUZl-Dv2jX8yNUuoMaq2h3YGCikCrDTNJkPbEf5t_IqmcaWVBoKxq-u1ntpYhffNai-t7dx0VSXMfXSel0UdLDEWCdwCw_IUVdHb-a5Vwn2uha3qkm2uHBdhJS9nzDct6laB9FO8/s1600/plane+view2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYliDTEUZl-Dv2jX8yNUuoMaq2h3YGCikCrDTNJkPbEf5t_IqmcaWVBoKxq-u1ntpYhffNai-t7dx0VSXMfXSel0UdLDEWCdwCw_IUVdHb-a5Vwn2uha3qkm2uHBdhJS9nzDct6laB9FO8/s1600/plane+view2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Here's the thing about having a kid, your standards for what can bring you happiness drop immensely, in a really good way. All the sudden that boring cup of coffee pre kids is elevated to a magical moment when you actually get to sit down and enjoy it. We were in the Koru Club before our flight and I order a flat white and well it wasn't that great. No problem! I ordered another one and happily stood there for another five minutes waiting for perfection, because I could. Because I was only responsible for myself and it was amazing!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmT1vyJAY6_UZ9UCLBowxzabKjf9g_QOqF52alkfqRFXOywfOYmdhMDugJjApaLE7Q_GgOQEwzfSsULcztXlLLxCIYQdHV-EZANSmFKepSjF0odpdNO9bkIWXN1Jiw7hz3RU-Wi_fCxqUA/s1600/4+mile+beach2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmT1vyJAY6_UZ9UCLBowxzabKjf9g_QOqF52alkfqRFXOywfOYmdhMDugJjApaLE7Q_GgOQEwzfSsULcztXlLLxCIYQdHV-EZANSmFKepSjF0odpdNO9bkIWXN1Jiw7hz3RU-Wi_fCxqUA/s1600/4+mile+beach2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The Great Barrier Reef was on our bucket list and it did not disappoint. The Mai Tai Resort in Port Douglas was a indeed a little slice of heaven. Since we weren't bringing Hazel I certainly didn't want to be subject to any other little rug rats on our precious grown ups trip, which is why we chose a place that didn't allow children. When I was telling my father-in-law about our adults only retreat I quickly realized it sounded more like ADULTS only and the vacation version of the back room in the video store. Glad we cleared that one up. <br />
<br />
We were served breakfast every morning outside and the view was incredible. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARx5cmC6GpqzECPmKIqlMyLF9QGR1l06zOgXwRw8WLUVRFEzLVHxafpHz3zvya3yduRgWQxn5ndHMKEaeoquMxWqD1FC3mP5DaPKla_G06mxE6XN-d-wZzJ40nGnbeY1Sl_TdybyDZa0X/s1600/mai+tai+view+2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARx5cmC6GpqzECPmKIqlMyLF9QGR1l06zOgXwRw8WLUVRFEzLVHxafpHz3zvya3yduRgWQxn5ndHMKEaeoquMxWqD1FC3mP5DaPKla_G06mxE6XN-d-wZzJ40nGnbeY1Sl_TdybyDZa0X/s1600/mai+tai+view+2B.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The pool was not too shabby either.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTn69t3XHlcOSgnLuB_gKLLT-aipPg8xF6Ek71wN1UNvQpVKn44YXLiw1Mf5SPM5xulgRoFGd1VBLtKuAtUm42CLrhzWit7I7ofvLFMOAR7Jc4ZqSqP3zMUp6f_ZT3T7JHdiIvRPn_mroj/s1600/pool2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTn69t3XHlcOSgnLuB_gKLLT-aipPg8xF6Ek71wN1UNvQpVKn44YXLiw1Mf5SPM5xulgRoFGd1VBLtKuAtUm42CLrhzWit7I7ofvLFMOAR7Jc4ZqSqP3zMUp6f_ZT3T7JHdiIvRPn_mroj/s1600/pool2.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Port Douglas in a resort town an hour away from Cairns, Australia, the main hub for the region and the place you fly in to. It's a beautiful, easy drive along the coast.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0F03KYpSDnsf8TV8FVwBsH__rFxd5gxOQYYIdO2Pyk0uoW1fOFu6K5QGzldCEI5C7rk4sU4XRkNZ8VMpCnPsx5wKlOyCZAUUYf7lk8c24TIhDcm7V8lT0Z1pR0H6d2_R4EncKxF0rHhNV/s1600/road+from+cairns+to+port+douglas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0F03KYpSDnsf8TV8FVwBsH__rFxd5gxOQYYIdO2Pyk0uoW1fOFu6K5QGzldCEI5C7rk4sU4XRkNZ8VMpCnPsx5wKlOyCZAUUYf7lk8c24TIhDcm7V8lT0Z1pR0H6d2_R4EncKxF0rHhNV/s1600/road+from+cairns+to+port+douglas2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The main beach in town is 4 Mile Beach. As far as beaches go it is pretty sweet. Wide and beautiful, and a great place to spend the day.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7kLJG9-JYgcgbqu0mPavMvsMYUqW6eQPXM6bF8n2coRzJD-UZGnJJjeBzX4hJhYNiddtftGX12NstyjNnTjggb-fHUYZsSEeXtXuXCLvGZkiGlbuz3qAWGy-5jtnmEylFZyWLL0LNd5U/s1600/katie+adam+4+mile2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7kLJG9-JYgcgbqu0mPavMvsMYUqW6eQPXM6bF8n2coRzJD-UZGnJJjeBzX4hJhYNiddtftGX12NstyjNnTjggb-fHUYZsSEeXtXuXCLvGZkiGlbuz3qAWGy-5jtnmEylFZyWLL0LNd5U/s1600/katie+adam+4+mile2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We got a tip from a local to go the opposite end of beach from where the tourists go and that made for a truly relaxing experience. The view from the Lookout:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihq56GCavsb8jCuJxcdjIah7m_GJOHZGUW3HEHoTCzkWIe2ESmY5tbzlBIdqUig_81V6G4zkXVqvgDxxH7dpngn_lx8aC6vkTRbF2-tQAR5bJMhWkqPs3zHgspT6wy4aRg1Z-FdQx3dhIR/s1600/lookout+view2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihq56GCavsb8jCuJxcdjIah7m_GJOHZGUW3HEHoTCzkWIe2ESmY5tbzlBIdqUig_81V6G4zkXVqvgDxxH7dpngn_lx8aC6vkTRbF2-tQAR5bJMhWkqPs3zHgspT6wy4aRg1Z-FdQx3dhIR/s1600/lookout+view2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
One of the best things about Port Douglas is Shakes Gelati. I should know as I went there every single day. And one time twice in one day. De-lish. Ice cream on vacation just taste better, doesn't it?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLdPBW1Gs-iVshBghnIfqPvOeo41NZkVKqbdw-XDY7y9kguzVLKK2BXZdXphoYSP85QlG0o3AmnSJH0Zp5VBJE3NEQsffTcnuY4N9lrfCktqS5Oxxh0xb4HWoVtA9c5eBvCILQwjcbd-kD/s1600/gelato2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLdPBW1Gs-iVshBghnIfqPvOeo41NZkVKqbdw-XDY7y9kguzVLKK2BXZdXphoYSP85QlG0o3AmnSJH0Zp5VBJE3NEQsffTcnuY4N9lrfCktqS5Oxxh0xb4HWoVtA9c5eBvCILQwjcbd-kD/s1600/gelato2.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Gelato aside, the main reason we were there was to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOTeDOTjLcdvY740pO1TmgyuljhwWPwwVZWggvKkRXo2R7hAVlJDJM6RKESzdP9SmHtsP-mm_eu_8wAo3sV-w0hecmrU-5b2qOWcXW4LvlnYI-K-Ge4NvJK7pa2wYJa7a38cF5dw7MD1IP/s1600/adam+boat2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOTeDOTjLcdvY740pO1TmgyuljhwWPwwVZWggvKkRXo2R7hAVlJDJM6RKESzdP9SmHtsP-mm_eu_8wAo3sV-w0hecmrU-5b2qOWcXW4LvlnYI-K-Ge4NvJK7pa2wYJa7a38cF5dw7MD1IP/s1600/adam+boat2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
It was truly spectacular. The reef was unlike anything I've ever seen. I didn't know what to expect, but a boat takes you about an hour and a half out and on the surface it looks like you are just being dropped in a random spot in the middle of the ocean.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8qHBzK6V_vczM2Qf4hRSII74olKztQFIw6TAaAUsGmZ1Cm18sadeZo34prJWMe4Y7H4ZiuxFH8j9AFeQd3mXQys6ouwQkyWSfiPsFl-GS3O3tS3BtnCrXMp983mx0QRZMb4qieLdEXb1l/s1600/adam+snorkelling2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8qHBzK6V_vczM2Qf4hRSII74olKztQFIw6TAaAUsGmZ1Cm18sadeZo34prJWMe4Y7H4ZiuxFH8j9AFeQd3mXQys6ouwQkyWSfiPsFl-GS3O3tS3BtnCrXMp983mx0QRZMb4qieLdEXb1l/s1600/adam+snorkelling2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Once you are in the water, though, you look down and see the magical world below. It is one of the coolest things I've ever seen or done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_W_G3WnCZKvWs38F96oZDgCbcYB-tI_EvSgXiwIfwd_sq6vAuS8Yoii5PkD0rJ09LNE4R9OyopxhMKcTvGoiL93k_2Vv4H9XxWadr5v-UpKYAX8sUPRnBROBUyUFQm_mjdQJ7HK89XYP/s1600/reef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_W_G3WnCZKvWs38F96oZDgCbcYB-tI_EvSgXiwIfwd_sq6vAuS8Yoii5PkD0rJ09LNE4R9OyopxhMKcTvGoiL93k_2Vv4H9XxWadr5v-UpKYAX8sUPRnBROBUyUFQm_mjdQJ7HK89XYP/s1600/reef.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For me it's the most unbelievable peace combined with an element of terror of what could be around the next corner. What everyone looks for in a holiday I know. And yes, we saw a freaking shark. I was assured if we did see one it would just be a reef shark and it would not be interested in us. That sounded reasonable and reassuring when I was on the boat, but when I was actually in the water and saw one I was less convinced. I swam away from it and Adam swam towards it. The fish and the colors are just spectacular. We went to three different snorkel spots, all really great.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbXkdkhWTjdM7Ry9INeeWwP9jiipAAcza5owHS2H8MG1Fc5Mzwnlt685xAdzXNlRGIOtztHlKSKdJKh3aTixpOEiefZ9erGG8V0A9XorS5rrQ7qGrbbMPSvfREcRERA8toZI_XioTEBCf/s1600/katie+boat2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbXkdkhWTjdM7Ry9INeeWwP9jiipAAcza5owHS2H8MG1Fc5Mzwnlt685xAdzXNlRGIOtztHlKSKdJKh3aTixpOEiefZ9erGG8V0A9XorS5rrQ7qGrbbMPSvfREcRERA8toZI_XioTEBCf/s1600/katie+boat2.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We also did a day exploring the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world. I had high hopes as what doesn't sound amazing about the oldest rainforest in the world, but ehh to me it just felt like a forest. Perhaps if you had just gotten out of prison it would be awe inspiring, as fresh air and green trees can be quite exhilarating. We did this tour and the guide kept telling us to keep a lookout for the elusive cassowary, a flightless bird that looks like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQ-YN2dMMHWvk0tzRdxTi_fWQYuFMANHp3EmLYM-M_yrKfq00oyPEujcjwPhTgfHpYd0QThfvKZ9kzKQpL7JEyJtZg7sBEKWJkNZ-zoS5GPbzCHOFLWN1f1nVLcVHFN2LKxHotcMFJYGF/s1600/cassowary2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQ-YN2dMMHWvk0tzRdxTi_fWQYuFMANHp3EmLYM-M_yrKfq00oyPEujcjwPhTgfHpYd0QThfvKZ9kzKQpL7JEyJtZg7sBEKWJkNZ-zoS5GPbzCHOFLWN1f1nVLcVHFN2LKxHotcMFJYGF/s1600/cassowary2.JPG" height="251" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I've never looked so hard for a bird I'd never heard of or cared about. Our tour also included a "crocodile cruise" down the Daintree River in which we saw not a single croc. HA! We did get to go to a secret spot with some pretty waterfalls and gigantic eels. Adam and I apparently are the only two out of 538 people on TripAdvisor who didn't think the whole Daintree stuff was amazing. Well, may a cassowary cross our paths when we least expect it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcg3B5a0Z8MkP-MO2h8RlDufChz7iz76Q4th3u0Zy3VpQchwU7ihQXHWOXu_Qhsrx_d7rY-Yz-_OR-BGaHcVbh-91GDBXKH_nVZ-3sZ4Wd2D-WAAA5jK5aGIrXQFbxDbPHxOgXhq-nt2Aw/s1600/waterfall2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcg3B5a0Z8MkP-MO2h8RlDufChz7iz76Q4th3u0Zy3VpQchwU7ihQXHWOXu_Qhsrx_d7rY-Yz-_OR-BGaHcVbh-91GDBXKH_nVZ-3sZ4Wd2D-WAAA5jK5aGIrXQFbxDbPHxOgXhq-nt2Aw/s1600/waterfall2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Overall it was such a relaxing, fun trip. Hazel was a superstar and I was so excited to see her when we got back. It wouldn't have been possible though without the help of the grandparents. Adam's Dad and stepmom, Lois, came to visit us in September and Lois was kind enough to stay on an extra week and take care of Hazel while we went away. Thanks Grandma Lolo! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5UavvyWxexCVmH5DnB2ofGznE4yyY-6LrboQ9O-H0qEua_ACmXTPBA4fYFyhmrgAckdmX-W971EE6d8b2q-VGCdM1Fwyl5pQycYQm3dYDTi5spWVmoL_GtvmGjqy1zQ6KIcWKvXKhmxJm/s1600/grandma+hazel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5UavvyWxexCVmH5DnB2ofGznE4yyY-6LrboQ9O-H0qEua_ACmXTPBA4fYFyhmrgAckdmX-W971EE6d8b2q-VGCdM1Fwyl5pQycYQm3dYDTi5spWVmoL_GtvmGjqy1zQ6KIcWKvXKhmxJm/s1600/grandma+hazel2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To many more child-free holidays....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIpyaig8nf5AODKglLgpupEdHBM6_coVCbH4UN1i2vAsmUIPFD0PE43KFa6_qVkGikOMdQ-lYzh-DAwNN7Phyphenhyphen3-ztI8uRh7UnOS_cNiCgHyG17HUWkYzs1O_2DBA7tTshrvhYu0aJIrS0/s1600/dinner2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIpyaig8nf5AODKglLgpupEdHBM6_coVCbH4UN1i2vAsmUIPFD0PE43KFa6_qVkGikOMdQ-lYzh-DAwNN7Phyphenhyphen3-ztI8uRh7UnOS_cNiCgHyG17HUWkYzs1O_2DBA7tTshrvhYu0aJIrS0/s1600/dinner2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-21145438551215115522014-09-05T12:53:00.000-07:002014-09-05T12:53:01.551-07:00Bump Watch 2.0We're having a baby! Another one! Kiwi baby #2 is coming to a theater near you at the end of February. Thankfully that whole situation will not actually be on the big screen, but it will be coming to a hospital near us. At least that's the plan. I'm sure that was the woman's plan who gave birth on the side of the highway too. We will not be finding out the sex this time. Side note friends and family: please cancel all surprise parties you are planning for me as this surprise should tide me over for the next year. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZMGsBC4H5tf_ohsWqYjjhIIj5O7mBbr4fqvOFMfkGaaJWQnBbHjfoF8fBFpdaD6NvlZ6P2HuFwlh5zgCdrjbhUZrwDOKAZjCD3g1N_DWQ1v94AiAfj1-jaYkVsM0V0h40gL5h2Z4dMbBK/s1600/hazel+baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZMGsBC4H5tf_ohsWqYjjhIIj5O7mBbr4fqvOFMfkGaaJWQnBbHjfoF8fBFpdaD6NvlZ6P2HuFwlh5zgCdrjbhUZrwDOKAZjCD3g1N_DWQ1v94AiAfj1-jaYkVsM0V0h40gL5h2Z4dMbBK/s1600/hazel+baby.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We've got the same midwife as we did with Hazel which is really great. I've been feeling fine and thankfully have only been sick once. It was almost comical because as I was over the toilet Hazel was next to me actually trying to shut the lid on my head. Humor is a great distraction from pain. So really I can't complain, but I still do. Mostly about how exhausted I am. The first trimester I pretty much had that tired, hungover feeling all the time without the fun of the night before. You know those feelings of, "please just let me lay on the couch and watch copious amounts of tv and shove my face with pizza" ones. Much to my chagrin that didn't happen. Mostly because of this small person I live with. I did realize last week when we went to see Cirque du Soleil that it was the first time I had left the house past 6:30 in 6 weeks. Yep. I'm pretty cool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vL4gvrzzJ1Zeyud2ndP6OwlJH3gCEUJWLbZ_GYuRhHqfV766XQMthwKmmDp7gLbfYIHjBYU7Benn7M6mDwYIyUQ2jj90ccz1X2EwvgEyqCHsNIKp7w4peXsxMs_i_zraVnqx4jzDDxrR/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vL4gvrzzJ1Zeyud2ndP6OwlJH3gCEUJWLbZ_GYuRhHqfV766XQMthwKmmDp7gLbfYIHjBYU7Benn7M6mDwYIyUQ2jj90ccz1X2EwvgEyqCHsNIKp7w4peXsxMs_i_zraVnqx4jzDDxrR/s1600/photo+4.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
It doesn't help that Adam got me an electric blanket for Mother's Day, that thing has been life changing (and clearly social life ending). With no central heating it's just cold in NZ in the winter even though it's not actually that cold outside. Anyway, this thing is awesome. Previously, I had ideas about what an electric blanket was, but the ones here or maybe just modern day ones, you put on your mattress with a fitted sheet over it and it's just heaven. I realize to native New Zealanders this sounds ridiculous, basically like someone moving to Atlanta in the summertime and discovering air conditioning. Ridiculous, but incredible nonetheless. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWlgigLCQYEktQ1a5E9GrpsQ0n1Mh8Lrr6WrmPmmXZSTcv0KgQiHdWIkKh3-xn8MKOVoiTKFfR7m3NtFSBQcvA0KID5ebvZ7rKWO78gHWYMLlpeN4_T8bwRPZGZEQ7rs7iWz0c96vN1SW/s1600/hazel+big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWlgigLCQYEktQ1a5E9GrpsQ0n1Mh8Lrr6WrmPmmXZSTcv0KgQiHdWIkKh3-xn8MKOVoiTKFfR7m3NtFSBQcvA0KID5ebvZ7rKWO78gHWYMLlpeN4_T8bwRPZGZEQ7rs7iWz0c96vN1SW/s1600/hazel+big.jpg" height="320" width="297" /></a></div>
<br />
I do still play tennis and hopefully will be able to for a couple more months. Hazel of course doesn't really understand that her world is about to be turned upside down. Like many parents, we have high hopes that she will be able to help out with new baby, but at this point all she has done is tried to feed it raisins through my belly button. Otherwise it's business as usual.<br />
<br />
Trips to the park:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-kvBTzxVDNW5DjWNw8a_GopkA15i6N4bN3xLYjHvyCzNvB_TTNyHu1e6Upf1XaVl_5OLQsLNDOm6bhIt5rtCOJ4LTEm3xGcPuOYlsqnNltZ7492b_kAXmnZXhbPm5wBw2DwzgBCu_JCb/s1600/Hazel+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-kvBTzxVDNW5DjWNw8a_GopkA15i6N4bN3xLYjHvyCzNvB_TTNyHu1e6Upf1XaVl_5OLQsLNDOm6bhIt5rtCOJ4LTEm3xGcPuOYlsqnNltZ7492b_kAXmnZXhbPm5wBw2DwzgBCu_JCb/s1600/Hazel+hat.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEZqCLF14_AvJfWRw39O8-VdHPNoQiVP1b_UlMgcKCT8EI5ZlSpOBzpy3Ne_ITeRKGitydDLbznuaw9AHuJsM2AKhKO3YsRrN8B1ACKRcQvC_pjZkVYtbszVOuh7i5ervY8tOsmiQE9DP/s1600/hazel+daddy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEZqCLF14_AvJfWRw39O8-VdHPNoQiVP1b_UlMgcKCT8EI5ZlSpOBzpy3Ne_ITeRKGitydDLbznuaw9AHuJsM2AKhKO3YsRrN8B1ACKRcQvC_pjZkVYtbszVOuh7i5ervY8tOsmiQE9DP/s1600/hazel+daddy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Days at the beach:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrXMPX-_bFVBmW3_pqWuKx6KS5pPcjimf05tNJhKylnZioR4ZZ6zzpLyjcO6Drn-ZNl7iWjKYZWXsDDJGuBMhlIWw-bmtO9H0VFXiNTaBx5L7x5Nzr_a-ZvCMOpKUn7v1BUMOE519JQ8x/s1600/hazel+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrXMPX-_bFVBmW3_pqWuKx6KS5pPcjimf05tNJhKylnZioR4ZZ6zzpLyjcO6Drn-ZNl7iWjKYZWXsDDJGuBMhlIWw-bmtO9H0VFXiNTaBx5L7x5Nzr_a-ZvCMOpKUn7v1BUMOE519JQ8x/s1600/hazel+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0IK97ot7IthFduxMelGVNwhXAc-4nR7TQR962PTuvU-nSDOmeYeomaqsGXkO9BMp2LAnMWSK176rM_XxJORTZJc1ZMpKO92XCLejLQQWv_HEujwK_MPiCrugf6OsSeNO2DsI9YogdwAMi/s1600/hazel+beach+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0IK97ot7IthFduxMelGVNwhXAc-4nR7TQR962PTuvU-nSDOmeYeomaqsGXkO9BMp2LAnMWSK176rM_XxJORTZJc1ZMpKO92XCLejLQQWv_HEujwK_MPiCrugf6OsSeNO2DsI9YogdwAMi/s1600/hazel+beach+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jumping Beans:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtUELWX1XvyI_rUBx9qCyWRne7b0-xc6jX7ftFvwf8qKZMveAQxxh793dHurT-ZqS2CbFb99eEUD54m7kuUzvCeEtc_lvWpe6vO8wLLn2Cpg71JF9RSX2vUQvkO2tR5F7Cq0wwWbfu1jx/s1600/hazel+jumping+beans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtUELWX1XvyI_rUBx9qCyWRne7b0-xc6jX7ftFvwf8qKZMveAQxxh793dHurT-ZqS2CbFb99eEUD54m7kuUzvCeEtc_lvWpe6vO8wLLn2Cpg71JF9RSX2vUQvkO2tR5F7Cq0wwWbfu1jx/s1600/hazel+jumping+beans.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Aquarium:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNKKkx2moIyoASc2Nu22-eGVUm5YUwnYOaChgCfdm5bva4bolCbcKfOAkXGtNXVqCNYumQwGY9YbXWxsaruEXpeI58KqEbPxUjdTacZJsuIV-LsMFu6G1y9LqbRSoFzcX8j5-GLimG0_3/s1600/Hazel+aquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNKKkx2moIyoASc2Nu22-eGVUm5YUwnYOaChgCfdm5bva4bolCbcKfOAkXGtNXVqCNYumQwGY9YbXWxsaruEXpeI58KqEbPxUjdTacZJsuIV-LsMFu6G1y9LqbRSoFzcX8j5-GLimG0_3/s1600/Hazel+aquarium.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJbyieZyHUQUejxb61Vu3kNnsjuMXE3a9UTYvQgxpHGzy82fpDhjIgJFNwU1fN5dfBA8vNypkl0b-hTlHM-J4xc_7JnY5jyrRfE0SIK3xfFU0axDCRzakxsYNr5yeaGLWuZVkQznW2eM2/s1600/hazel+aqua+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJbyieZyHUQUejxb61Vu3kNnsjuMXE3a9UTYvQgxpHGzy82fpDhjIgJFNwU1fN5dfBA8vNypkl0b-hTlHM-J4xc_7JnY5jyrRfE0SIK3xfFU0axDCRzakxsYNr5yeaGLWuZVkQznW2eM2/s1600/hazel+aqua+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJbyieZyHUQUejxb61Vu3kNnsjuMXE3a9UTYvQgxpHGzy82fpDhjIgJFNwU1fN5dfBA8vNypkl0b-hTlHM-J4xc_7JnY5jyrRfE0SIK3xfFU0axDCRzakxsYNr5yeaGLWuZVkQznW2eM2/s1600/hazel+aqua+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fun at local playgroups:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LfgtWQslBsHnvrUdnjN865QKi81RpvInIBnXcu18zm3W7yWWUnaZE52ZwFw11N0uGW0xSfBNjwBxO36eSoeszXLhxth2KQXFl0iV4issf2qZTKoSPKSVoyu7O7pNfE8r__DkylKtiD-A/s1600/hazel+playgroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LfgtWQslBsHnvrUdnjN865QKi81RpvInIBnXcu18zm3W7yWWUnaZE52ZwFw11N0uGW0xSfBNjwBxO36eSoeszXLhxth2KQXFl0iV4issf2qZTKoSPKSVoyu7O7pNfE8r__DkylKtiD-A/s1600/hazel+playgroup.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rainy day trips to the pet store:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-CMW_uVdJzPX6xr_QCr1aoXO7m2unDHUFKAm9e8dc0sEKh4-q8D0GmYwGDhe6Ly6EshHTQs-wb6I9iWoq8o1HlpEaj7G2rai_UvqWFwL7HkgpV4_U-IUUFFWgjx8D8pMG23sgj0d6QZk/s1600/hazel+pet+store.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-CMW_uVdJzPX6xr_QCr1aoXO7m2unDHUFKAm9e8dc0sEKh4-q8D0GmYwGDhe6Ly6EshHTQs-wb6I9iWoq8o1HlpEaj7G2rai_UvqWFwL7HkgpV4_U-IUUFFWgjx8D8pMG23sgj0d6QZk/s1600/hazel+pet+store.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Parnell French Market (this child is a dancing fool!):</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNz_7tRHfia7-v4PgT64JXBOIcAwAu6vJ69mDdw2TWIeqbhvmV_ZuHyLFdACuF0BtCLk4KOoDTq18JQgtPAZipR-V9H9pC3Qpj13y1ShXFLEATWrIwViwB5b2f9yXcDQb3uC585NHtQex/s1600/hazel+french+market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNz_7tRHfia7-v4PgT64JXBOIcAwAu6vJ69mDdw2TWIeqbhvmV_ZuHyLFdACuF0BtCLk4KOoDTq18JQgtPAZipR-V9H9pC3Qpj13y1ShXFLEATWrIwViwB5b2f9yXcDQb3uC585NHtQex/s1600/hazel+french+market.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She's really into hats at the moment:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oLy-kJPLhCdu9ZGqz74BNiX-aRMVuCV7Ft9WJaxXAQdEGCiQ81uiISk2jUUZJSywnANngvlOPmy8bBhYAoHqshrmZNyccKLVMdNMvsXhr7IACpQRYEY8dEujChJXl65Vx9ixdiFccn36/s1600/hazel+hat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oLy-kJPLhCdu9ZGqz74BNiX-aRMVuCV7Ft9WJaxXAQdEGCiQ81uiISk2jUUZJSywnANngvlOPmy8bBhYAoHqshrmZNyccKLVMdNMvsXhr7IACpQRYEY8dEujChJXl65Vx9ixdiFccn36/s1600/hazel+hat+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0-6sfuH2pj1Qa6_DnyakWvY6o1xfP4sEhMjkv5UAVx7Fw24mgFvYgrIJA1zbW8rU7QzUIC6UpErWa06OLXvIxrJgZxvXunbImfQCA73DJ22-cXgsvRm3d9PlqdQ3X_UoOx1ObRkRbFUW/s1600/hazel+santa+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0-6sfuH2pj1Qa6_DnyakWvY6o1xfP4sEhMjkv5UAVx7Fw24mgFvYgrIJA1zbW8rU7QzUIC6UpErWa06OLXvIxrJgZxvXunbImfQCA73DJ22-cXgsvRm3d9PlqdQ3X_UoOx1ObRkRbFUW/s1600/hazel+santa+(2).jpg" height="320" width="297" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1paFgOudIaUfI1sXXvgVW2i45Hch12Imr8j6gRswdoLuXUF7F8JJruXC0jZ98e3VjnobZs6oQ6TzRLC8AOrnDrJfwClG6bmX8thjVGBu7VBtD_1Mw6O9HRRU-7-S4tCL7g9WQbGurPDWd/s1600/hazel+coloring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1paFgOudIaUfI1sXXvgVW2i45Hch12Imr8j6gRswdoLuXUF7F8JJruXC0jZ98e3VjnobZs6oQ6TzRLC8AOrnDrJfwClG6bmX8thjVGBu7VBtD_1Mw6O9HRRU-7-S4tCL7g9WQbGurPDWd/s1600/hazel+coloring.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
20 Months old:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnIKj3zPXFcpTLQBIcfnqricKktVXWAlN4sVWCOA74bZDvyJ_hFiu7gV3BEENoTnE_726SpRciEEb937CY8blZtlfYTXG5Z-8nIAggBe93UXqHvuTmOK9G3FnVE9tv5dnrZwgg2QyMIkd/s1600/hazel+20+months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnIKj3zPXFcpTLQBIcfnqricKktVXWAlN4sVWCOA74bZDvyJ_hFiu7gV3BEENoTnE_726SpRciEEb937CY8blZtlfYTXG5Z-8nIAggBe93UXqHvuTmOK9G3FnVE9tv5dnrZwgg2QyMIkd/s1600/hazel+20+months.jpg" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-25845919804789999722014-08-21T17:44:00.000-07:002014-08-21T17:53:38.756-07:00USA Trip: Part 2We kicked off our tour in LA. Adam had a big work conference at the Langham Huntington in Pasadena so that was our first stop. Oooh this place was nice and it was such a lovely way to get adjusted to US time and relax for a couple days before the frenzy of people and places we were about to embark on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxcDxGuTdeL5xUNiNDA1yzuKZu-wF_7sinHLnIb8ywUWiFLMXzhy8U1GLbBGwX5Gi5TJTw7FTSIkqKqUm9LYCGQeKra1rkbCiS9T3tE0P6OpsYIliA-Xn_nfp7fS3BlSs-QT7MsZHDQHf/s1600/Hazel+Adam+langham+pool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxcDxGuTdeL5xUNiNDA1yzuKZu-wF_7sinHLnIb8ywUWiFLMXzhy8U1GLbBGwX5Gi5TJTw7FTSIkqKqUm9LYCGQeKra1rkbCiS9T3tE0P6OpsYIliA-Xn_nfp7fS3BlSs-QT7MsZHDQHf/s1600/Hazel+Adam+langham+pool.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I went for a bike ride, they had a great spa, and even a free shuttle to take us into places like old town Pasadena (Hazel heard her first mariachi band!) and the Huntington Gardens, which were quite impressive I must say. We also both have friends that live in LA so we got to see them which was great. <br />
<br />
Between my beauty and Hazel's lack of ability to care for herself, we decided our presence would provide too much of a distraction for Adam so we flew to San Francisco once his conference got into full swing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_N7qjP9Vs7W204bBHqXm9nEMTArymepxxs6CCRyatuJUvJOta8mYvY6VcFnDTqugHk81_D4FPUFeYsPYgl_owKoBGss-mpvFKZwYpsxCwC6wic6MfY48oKI2BiSGjE3tp3n91ne5vvBS/s1600/Hazel+KT+GG+Bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_N7qjP9Vs7W204bBHqXm9nEMTArymepxxs6CCRyatuJUvJOta8mYvY6VcFnDTqugHk81_D4FPUFeYsPYgl_owKoBGss-mpvFKZwYpsxCwC6wic6MfY48oKI2BiSGjE3tp3n91ne5vvBS/s1600/Hazel+KT+GG+Bridge.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I lived in the city by the Bay for pretty much my entire 20's and many of my dearest friends are still there. It is always a treat to visit. There was lots of eating at amazing restaurants and catching up with equally amazing people. If I was 13, I would list them all and put a matching emoticon next to their name, but I'm not so just know I loved seeing all of you and getting to meet new additions, like little baby Teddy:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9iHur9ZQtU_RPHZhcNkCWuvMSqaqwVrNrkIdsBrW_xL2MYBAe4OKvtln___Od5V-Jwm2W8e7YWNnHBYAFMK109GZsBaNBaivwCF_x5-dNRBvdubEF5ldFx4HF8Xs3KDMgPI8fTaZYbV8/s1600/Teddy+Holbrook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9iHur9ZQtU_RPHZhcNkCWuvMSqaqwVrNrkIdsBrW_xL2MYBAe4OKvtln___Od5V-Jwm2W8e7YWNnHBYAFMK109GZsBaNBaivwCF_x5-dNRBvdubEF5ldFx4HF8Xs3KDMgPI8fTaZYbV8/s1600/Teddy+Holbrook.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
The Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito and Train Town in Sonoma were great stops. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZB-Ip7UwOWLaVeIdtiaa6gdHPxMOGulSWf6LzMsWfHdHdoLulxPd-PpcRm59qxy2BU8_JQOiW9i_6e7ps3MGfnw7H-DynUkHQH3MNm6dyteHm0wajklx7_swnOkS3Tif4cYCTQC97W-Lf/s1600/hazel+discovery+museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZB-Ip7UwOWLaVeIdtiaa6gdHPxMOGulSWf6LzMsWfHdHdoLulxPd-PpcRm59qxy2BU8_JQOiW9i_6e7ps3MGfnw7H-DynUkHQH3MNm6dyteHm0wajklx7_swnOkS3Tif4cYCTQC97W-Lf/s1600/hazel+discovery+museum.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrCo7FehJVm5kWKEqS97xXWstXZQHY_OPIBcDufOjauTKWJfSBMEPb056J7gRdj6Vt61HwmIvM9kQa4-iE7gDDFvNDHjc0sIF_xmh8avUy5qq6uOVwee8OpEuyVMTe3ldNJ_ENkZFtu9o/s1600/Hazel+train+town+sonoma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrCo7FehJVm5kWKEqS97xXWstXZQHY_OPIBcDufOjauTKWJfSBMEPb056J7gRdj6Vt61HwmIvM9kQa4-iE7gDDFvNDHjc0sIF_xmh8avUy5qq6uOVwee8OpEuyVMTe3ldNJ_ENkZFtu9o/s1600/Hazel+train+town+sonoma.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And just taking Hazel to some of my old haunts, like Tartine Bakery, was a lot of fun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWJXFhfhm-AtDXXx4rqUV0GSyV0h0ZzAzkGdZLJ8XouNp51uRhCjoDVuxSJO5gqd8kvOXzfN1X3iH4VqbCptt6L0i1jvxnErSOK_mTTSiuFHfAn2Km8ajvCKE-1SAx6jypDePsLdY-yDgZ/s1600/Tartine+Bakery+SF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWJXFhfhm-AtDXXx4rqUV0GSyV0h0ZzAzkGdZLJ8XouNp51uRhCjoDVuxSJO5gqd8kvOXzfN1X3iH4VqbCptt6L0i1jvxnErSOK_mTTSiuFHfAn2Km8ajvCKE-1SAx6jypDePsLdY-yDgZ/s1600/Tartine+Bakery+SF.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I will give a special shout out to Mallary and Johnny because staying at their house in Mill Valley is better then any hotel and well you just can't have moments like this on Facetime:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKM0Y-OWNyjNJ_cLa96huVxOmiG6l2dyllIm7_YH6lFVAVC0gZCGyBm4fDkmxlb4dpVjdz83HLgYUUWrpTq8nxCtp429XLHB_2n9pbAqPVQ_niHkG1SfvfeNgGF5eJow5u3eaYSbmz6MgC/s1600/Hazel+Stewart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKM0Y-OWNyjNJ_cLa96huVxOmiG6l2dyllIm7_YH6lFVAVC0gZCGyBm4fDkmxlb4dpVjdz83HLgYUUWrpTq8nxCtp429XLHB_2n9pbAqPVQ_niHkG1SfvfeNgGF5eJow5u3eaYSbmz6MgC/s1600/Hazel+Stewart.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Ok, next up is Atlanta, the city where the players play... and Adam's family lives. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqIxcUIEWYScmYgonBXjVGZHs8QNqn3wD78mbRY4T8W9e0zQmgN59CZmyJ_bppgR9HiISnakyYS9iLV6vnAgGi6YjfJSs1IX7CX35RE9QkW8kYyhDNOLyg9R3HsFOs0NOsISSSXlKxEHV/s1600/Hazel+Adam+Father's%2BDay%2B2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqIxcUIEWYScmYgonBXjVGZHs8QNqn3wD78mbRY4T8W9e0zQmgN59CZmyJ_bppgR9HiISnakyYS9iLV6vnAgGi6YjfJSs1IX7CX35RE9QkW8kYyhDNOLyg9R3HsFOs0NOsISSSXlKxEHV/s1600/Hazel+Adam+Father's%2BDay%2B2014.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There was lots of great times with all the fam, seeing good friends, shopping, and a belated wedding anniversary dinner for Adam and I. 3 years baby!! We had the most wonderful meal at St. Cecilia. Traditionally, 3 years means giving a leather gift, but I opted for a heart shaped cookie cake instead. Keep him on his toes, know what I mean? <br />
<br />
After some lovely time in Atlanta, we headed up to the mountains in North Georgia where Adam's Dad and stepmom have a place. It's always so relaxing and nice to be up there. We split the time between family and friends and Hazel had her first time in a proper country creek (crick). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7NrGA_5dj-7jgXgB2VTHegeUVTc1fvQ_CHH2HiOujP6Cgo_jQbf8dnuNCZcVlyd157_07P3jUe4PS9Blu_rzzdr1QEI6Bx6JMRANoie2bsggp8EGr1FPsAJ3zlie43dJnRHjuJAdCslv/s1600/Hazel+Adam+creek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7NrGA_5dj-7jgXgB2VTHegeUVTc1fvQ_CHH2HiOujP6Cgo_jQbf8dnuNCZcVlyd157_07P3jUe4PS9Blu_rzzdr1QEI6Bx6JMRANoie2bsggp8EGr1FPsAJ3zlie43dJnRHjuJAdCslv/s1600/Hazel+Adam+creek.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Knoxville was our next stop and there really is no place like home. Ahh summer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQz4ZnBfWF401P7COgmM6obDU-nRKXOAb_OoSeBWadY_POmcm22sriXu9fvRR9z5WnpKAbSQEgiqRHIsE-srkEYmfrjJhExcL-v80bLQ_4Gt2hraPyLGRmGlfRjxa9aUM_En8IeY-fxgM-/s1600/Hazel+Taylor+Spash+Pad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQz4ZnBfWF401P7COgmM6obDU-nRKXOAb_OoSeBWadY_POmcm22sriXu9fvRR9z5WnpKAbSQEgiqRHIsE-srkEYmfrjJhExcL-v80bLQ_4Gt2hraPyLGRmGlfRjxa9aUM_En8IeY-fxgM-/s1600/Hazel+Taylor+Spash+Pad.jpg" height="320" width="296" /></a></div>
<br />
Adam spent a few days with us but had to head back to New Zealand and China for work. Hazel and I settled into our Knoxville routine and spent a lot of time with family and friends. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFo-NTlpjvIWkuUslMSf5Q65JtiBzctEB2HIVAvlSOyKd3RL0lYu4HHN18UGzMJ-gZegNlMP5hfslRfogUIS5Ll3UPOX-FL5HnF7-I02Pwn_A3eJuxvrusbjVfgKu0756QWG9dtOE2ci3/s1600/4+generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFo-NTlpjvIWkuUslMSf5Q65JtiBzctEB2HIVAvlSOyKd3RL0lYu4HHN18UGzMJ-gZegNlMP5hfslRfogUIS5Ll3UPOX-FL5HnF7-I02Pwn_A3eJuxvrusbjVfgKu0756QWG9dtOE2ci3/s1600/4+generations.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We made a quick trip to Murfeesboro in middle Tennessee to see my grandmother, get some Whitts BBQ, see my cousins, and meet their adorable twin boys. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZnqLqmKkXMPrETHREX85fv6H6_zMOWnVeI_FT4u4zEbG4PNzm5yq6r2Tf_UGmyYHGaT-rEo5dupMzL-jd-ffex-t8zwFCCwvUU5kmy2B9Icr9MeJ3vgfD07OCdlNB_u2IU4HxjbiA22P/s1600/hazel+and+twins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZnqLqmKkXMPrETHREX85fv6H6_zMOWnVeI_FT4u4zEbG4PNzm5yq6r2Tf_UGmyYHGaT-rEo5dupMzL-jd-ffex-t8zwFCCwvUU5kmy2B9Icr9MeJ3vgfD07OCdlNB_u2IU4HxjbiA22P/s1600/hazel+and+twins.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
After filling up the many empty duffle bags we brought with us and spending as much energy trying to zip them as I did trying to zip my own pants at this point, it was time to start making the trip back to my New Zealand home. This leg I was doing alone. It's the trade off for getting to stay 2 extra weeks in the US. Truly, it's just a moment in time and one day of your life. <br />
<br />
A word about travelling with a toddler, though, as people do often ask me what it's like and how the actual trips go. We are very fortunate that Hazel is the baby she is. I'm not sure if it's a case of we travel with her so she's a good traveler or we travel with her because she's a good traveler. Either way, I know we got real lucky. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6223qP98SxUKRRnSR-vvsvhv7HsV0ZonDBbwTGjYMdtxqvC_fSgVUZBO-BGG9pe7xG69BRrH7Cl7unF_wp29cqRGnSQfZzd0ZEqUv4lHbw6JUDggeGIq-wUsPFJIX59fNpFvMXtjEtQY/s1600/Hazel+airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6223qP98SxUKRRnSR-vvsvhv7HsV0ZonDBbwTGjYMdtxqvC_fSgVUZBO-BGG9pe7xG69BRrH7Cl7unF_wp29cqRGnSQfZzd0ZEqUv4lHbw6JUDggeGIq-wUsPFJIX59fNpFvMXtjEtQY/s1600/Hazel+airport.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
With that being said - if you have never flown with a small child then I've just given you something to be thankful for at your next gratitude group and if you have, well you know what it's like. Let me just say in general I like to keep "route talk" to a minimum. Hearing about how someone got some from point A to point B is rarely interesting. I mean try to remember the last good traffic story you heard. It's usually up there with a good menstruation story or hearing about someone's dream from the night before. Anyway, I mostly just find it very long and tiring. Hazel doesn't cry, but she does maintain her busy toddler personality even in the box in the sky. She did have her own seat so that helps a lot. That and bourbon.<br />
<br />
Air New Zealand is wonderful and honestly the international leg is easier in a lot of ways than the domestic one. On one of my legs from Knoxville to SF they showed a movie. I was thrilled as Hazel had actually fallen asleep when the screen dropped down. I was less thrilled when over an hour into it the movie it just shuts off and the screen goes back into the ceiling. Oh right, 'cause we are landing. I look around the plane hoping to connect with someone who finds this as equally as ridiculous as I do, but no such luck. Who shows a movie, but doesn't bother to make sure all of it can be shown? Apparently United. Anyway it was back to SF for a few days and then on to Auckland. We survived, which is all you can really expect with a small human as your travel partner. I'm glad to be back and look forward to not getting on another plane for a while. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2JH6KDDzGcxur67wdKhBbF4vZ5SNBwBTibx1mKck3pe1nueH8adre_SgiUjg_bkk3-ETODYJhqwKA3sXs0Dw3WNMbAG1A0yZdVdqYBdqsDuRhky4jgIuakl7b4gNO29nb38ju-attNMc/s1600/Hazel+carry+on+luggage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2JH6KDDzGcxur67wdKhBbF4vZ5SNBwBTibx1mKck3pe1nueH8adre_SgiUjg_bkk3-ETODYJhqwKA3sXs0Dw3WNMbAG1A0yZdVdqYBdqsDuRhky4jgIuakl7b4gNO29nb38ju-attNMc/s1600/Hazel+carry+on+luggage.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Or at a least a month or two.Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-40996800069112602742014-08-21T17:35:00.000-07:002014-08-21T17:49:44.532-07:00USA Trip: Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3fWQLmGPyGK6Txm7AtljcfoFqr2wWUB6H8m6tf8WaotYb9FMgNTV8C9zU3BB5fXUCk_dFCbS-cXeWy2YYatL3ZDSuMGJjMyZbNUhUFgVBYpNCMvTOSr_-SqqOGcNaSvqIf5lvSkZQ9iv/s1600/map.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3fWQLmGPyGK6Txm7AtljcfoFqr2wWUB6H8m6tf8WaotYb9FMgNTV8C9zU3BB5fXUCk_dFCbS-cXeWy2YYatL3ZDSuMGJjMyZbNUhUFgVBYpNCMvTOSr_-SqqOGcNaSvqIf5lvSkZQ9iv/s1600/map.gif" height="156" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Amurica. Land of the free and home of the brave. And possibly the largest cars and parking spaces in the world? I've lived in New Zealand for two and a half years now so each time I return to the US I notice my perspective shifting. This time I noticed a big shift.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPP12ywDyxl23gCInvK0d-YyyOmJjKCcEICVQjDfU7L6uAKqyYuiZuzJgg_BdOi4c8dUeFHeEY08yew514ETzj6uM04u3LlCGr6ara0VQLBPXPMt8U3yHQ9nJ8hdSITdWc_1W-IsfMxML/s1600/parking+space+USA.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPP12ywDyxl23gCInvK0d-YyyOmJjKCcEICVQjDfU7L6uAKqyYuiZuzJgg_BdOi4c8dUeFHeEY08yew514ETzj6uM04u3LlCGr6ara0VQLBPXPMt8U3yHQ9nJ8hdSITdWc_1W-IsfMxML/s1600/parking+space+USA.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Parking spaces, car parks as they are called here, seemed so huge to me this time. Btw, this shift did not involve me acquiring a Mercedes or becoming handicapped, it was just slim pickings for parking space pictures on the interweb. Anyway, I was at lunch one day. Ok fine I was at the waffle house eating waffles in the middle of the day (ALONE - it was bliss!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0OyhFgyxpiwUvL4SNqinvv9O0UjnH7aX8iEK0Gce9AZhYBrwutUH5AdznItQDSSLMPvzOaX84R-P3UEEeemcjYTdatJxm89lPjWRZteyR7ZaGhXGxk3z5GphFn3yfTxnN00-6NL-hLY8/s1600/waffle+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0OyhFgyxpiwUvL4SNqinvv9O0UjnH7aX8iEK0Gce9AZhYBrwutUH5AdznItQDSSLMPvzOaX84R-P3UEEeemcjYTdatJxm89lPjWRZteyR7ZaGhXGxk3z5GphFn3yfTxnN00-6NL-hLY8/s1600/waffle+house.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Anyway, I had a table with a view, to the parking lot, and I spent my entire meal staring at my car in its spot and how much space there was on each side. I really couldn't get over it. Despite the fact the above picture is a handicap spot, I can assure you this is how much space there was on each side. In New Zealand, I pretty much have to suck in to get out of the driver's seat so you get the idea. Everything in America really did seem super sized to me. <br />
<br />
I was at a coffee shop in California and without looking at the sizes I ordered a medium coffee. What I got handed was a cup like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdeB-M2XPgwvWxDsWwBEfJRe9-6ltlL8tQniPGhMcKHx_w17lM5XDu0yT2CvJeDudPtQK-XqKHgQC9bwlMevCfy6WgAaxflRLZ5iQ1G4FC1LysS8BmHWj8ySTUKH4yz12v7L0a4NGFbAe/s1600/16oz+coffee+cup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdeB-M2XPgwvWxDsWwBEfJRe9-6ltlL8tQniPGhMcKHx_w17lM5XDu0yT2CvJeDudPtQK-XqKHgQC9bwlMevCfy6WgAaxflRLZ5iQ1G4FC1LysS8BmHWj8ySTUKH4yz12v7L0a4NGFbAe/s1600/16oz+coffee+cup.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I was shocked, I couldn't believe how big it was and the fact that there was a size that was even larger, what?! I mean this is the largest size at my coffee shop in New Zealand:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBATYKVfXHK935-ZwBvveancn1rJuCud32vLJb_TS7d9VbEIcEUi4PQ1k-JO7aIAzG4oDRQn1KjqJP83ndL7KycG6doXN6cKGuGAdW4nQE1wMaHqHKxyFK9xb4-WIvkAbFgcN9YjeQS1N/s1600/coffee+cup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBATYKVfXHK935-ZwBvveancn1rJuCud32vLJb_TS7d9VbEIcEUi4PQ1k-JO7aIAzG4oDRQn1KjqJP83ndL7KycG6doXN6cKGuGAdW4nQE1wMaHqHKxyFK9xb4-WIvkAbFgcN9YjeQS1N/s1600/coffee+cup.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You have to understand this is coming from someone who loves to get her eat and drank on. I do not fall into the, "well are <em>you</em> going to order the fries?" type or the, "I don't know how you could possibly eat that whole piece of cake." Well I do, so hand it over. I'm just sayin, even for me everything seemed big, unnecessarily so.<br />
<br />
I had the same feelings when I went into a DSW in Atlanta. For those not familiar, it's a huge shoe store that might be a good idea if you were trying to provide shoes for life for say the Duggar's and their 19 children, but this time when I was in there I just thought this is too much. Why on earth are there so many shoes in one place? Who possible has the time and energy to go through all these aisles? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwdK_KYWRWcyrTo1KSpxzVXCnmZnoJsMSBkKfoe2ggsDdt4lKUQblgMw6aHf3jDPSVInI3l3FZ2QFuMfoJaNkLqcKMslRj5thyphenhyphenXXkV4XIQU5SqGBH0rb79F32PZ7HR1wT-L36nrSDGx7s/s1600/DSW.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwdK_KYWRWcyrTo1KSpxzVXCnmZnoJsMSBkKfoe2ggsDdt4lKUQblgMw6aHf3jDPSVInI3l3FZ2QFuMfoJaNkLqcKMslRj5thyphenhyphenXXkV4XIQU5SqGBH0rb79F32PZ7HR1wT-L36nrSDGx7s/s1600/DSW.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course, some things don't change. I'll always have room in my heart and wallet for TJMaxx.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqt3IQ1TmdQpF2iFHUOCxrBScFw0HazXkbuMxlAoGOW7149efJ4s8UskEwAJuNjcvJLX0Mqs4EpwZxqSaWbUyGlPA34nT5kwX67yp-NHD-wij95xp4FXIPZH8q-N4ub05xkIzLdYDC8f7j/s1600/Hazel+shopping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqt3IQ1TmdQpF2iFHUOCxrBScFw0HazXkbuMxlAoGOW7149efJ4s8UskEwAJuNjcvJLX0Mqs4EpwZxqSaWbUyGlPA34nT5kwX67yp-NHD-wij95xp4FXIPZH8q-N4ub05xkIzLdYDC8f7j/s1600/Hazel+shopping.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
It's just funny because these are all things that I wouldn't have batted an eye at three years ago when I was living in the US and now I really notice them. Everything in New Zealand operates on such a smaller scale, you have so many fewer options and well everything is just.... smaller. I guess the best way to describe it is you know how you go into some stores or restaurants and think wow this is overwhelming. I can't remember ever actually feeling that way since I moved here. On the flip side, I was in Knoxville eating lunch, (the real kind, not the waffle kind) at a popular chain restaurant and actually uttered theses words to my sister-in -law, " I'm thinking about getting the salad on page 15." Case in point.<br />
<br />
Adam and I also agreed that we really felt the technology gap this visit back. I felt like someone from a different planet when cashier after cashier turned their tablet towards me to complete my purchase and swipe my card. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3RFWyX8hkIPJ6wvbjMRcPo9pgPeqdUuIFMDImm8f0nVLb3W0ZFtzj722RQn9sOv61PAAAZk1Agta8Mf6siomxDGjMjQqpSsy5W6dA7dKU8y-9eueR1UaKo_D68HImNdW3HgQq7dWwjxF/s1600/tablet+cash+reg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3RFWyX8hkIPJ6wvbjMRcPo9pgPeqdUuIFMDImm8f0nVLb3W0ZFtzj722RQn9sOv61PAAAZk1Agta8Mf6siomxDGjMjQqpSsy5W6dA7dKU8y-9eueR1UaKo_D68HImNdW3HgQq7dWwjxF/s1600/tablet+cash+reg.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Even at a restaurant in Blue Ridge, Georgia, a small mountain town where we got married, I was shocked to be given a wine list that was basically an ipad. You just don't see this stuff in New Zealand. I remember when I first moved here and was at a café reading and the waitress came up to me and said, "oh my gosh is that one of those e-reader things, can I see it?" I'm all, have at it sister, it's called a Kindle and mark my words it's going to be huge. <br />
<br />
So let's get to the actual trip and being home. It was really, really wonderful. I got to spend six whole weeks visiting family and friends, lounging by the pool, and soaking up all American summer had to offer. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwUShZiIWjFvTFW2xvEZLcAbSwxXLKfzYRzveaGVdUEK0Gz_WOJ8Z9uobN3NMp5SL6hbPn8J8N4X14XBGEvRKTZbVNMErj5_3-eYqcAElsNjOr40FS-jLNJHOZiJn8QoHPcny0wM1B_s0/s1600/hazel+taylor+evan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwUShZiIWjFvTFW2xvEZLcAbSwxXLKfzYRzveaGVdUEK0Gz_WOJ8Z9uobN3NMp5SL6hbPn8J8N4X14XBGEvRKTZbVNMErj5_3-eYqcAElsNjOr40FS-jLNJHOZiJn8QoHPcny0wM1B_s0/s1600/hazel+taylor+evan.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
As huge of a pain it is to gear up for the trip, travel with a toddler across the world, and not sleep in my own bed for 42 nights, to me it is totally worth it. It is especially made enjoyable by everyone we stay with who make our time there easier and I can't thank them enough. I didn't take nearly enough pictures, evidenced by the many people we love and spent time with that are not on here. A blog post or two will certainly not do my time there justice, but I did have many memorable experiences. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnyLGwvfMDO-shbNgbwuqbs2rqqTWLdtq7yRYXd9LZClH4Ogd-4GxiT3CH0yGHnOJ4ZluUfdVeqkIzKiLn7EQ_Iu5S5-LHniSjOxwP-xr3AouWhJyBRkj4JAN1n2pR-PiRiG6NnX7d5r0/s1600/friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnyLGwvfMDO-shbNgbwuqbs2rqqTWLdtq7yRYXd9LZClH4Ogd-4GxiT3CH0yGHnOJ4ZluUfdVeqkIzKiLn7EQ_Iu5S5-LHniSjOxwP-xr3AouWhJyBRkj4JAN1n2pR-PiRiG6NnX7d5r0/s1600/friends.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
One such experience occurred at the nail salon in Knoxville before I left.I was having an enjoyable mani/pedi when the Asian dude doing my toes asks right before he is about to paint them, are you sure you want to do this color? He is clearly not pleased with my choice. I say yes, I'm sure. He tells me it's "very old lady" and wonders wouldn't I rather do something fun and bright like the color I currently have on. I laugh and say no, I like my choice and am ok with it. He says, "but really, I did this exact color on old lady's nails last week and she was like 93."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gJlNJEalQNRCIyyeR-SPJpmzIAYoPKM-rl_Ropi9FuPJAsjvevYfvklOJIegp799FZMsWgy3K-Njg6b5xqZHHyjwQ12CSZmSZrhUazlvTKGfD1ptVO0yCa9sidkpkWXpluDm-vrjKXgw/s1600/toes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gJlNJEalQNRCIyyeR-SPJpmzIAYoPKM-rl_Ropi9FuPJAsjvevYfvklOJIegp799FZMsWgy3K-Njg6b5xqZHHyjwQ12CSZmSZrhUazlvTKGfD1ptVO0yCa9sidkpkWXpluDm-vrjKXgw/s1600/toes.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
I can see his point, it is rose pink after all. I can tell he has good intentions, hoping to save me from myself and my fate as possibly the youngest Golden Girl never cast. I assure him I'm going back to New Zealand where it is winter so not to worry. <br />
<br />
To read all about our actual trip, check out USA Trip: Part 2. Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-92004608952027697922014-05-20T12:16:00.001-07:002014-05-20T12:16:32.233-07:00Martinborough: A Weekend in the WairarapaWe recently did a little trip to Martinborough, near the bottom of the North Island. Like most places in NZ, it was a short flight away. It was great, but I'll have to give you the cliff notes plus pictures version as we have friends coming to visit (yay Luber's!) and then we are off to the good 'ole USA for our annual, "how many different places can our child sleep in one month" trip. So excited (friends! family! fried chicken!) just lots to do, so let's get to it. <br />
<br />
Martinborough is a tiny town in the South Wairarapa outside of Wellington. Small in size but big on wine, especially Pinot Noir. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZjbkC8NrFB8f4zP5h3IioOKCK4ulpJZ4G0g4hSztaLgY6H-NoWla_I9TdZwI9SZ0DTrC71tPaYiWz3ViAfluMOqm9ftq6NHvDVuAjhpW9cHuyEtIw_4pi3Lmrn_jqNfdkzmO2Q53zGs-/s1600/Vineyard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZjbkC8NrFB8f4zP5h3IioOKCK4ulpJZ4G0g4hSztaLgY6H-NoWla_I9TdZwI9SZ0DTrC71tPaYiWz3ViAfluMOqm9ftq6NHvDVuAjhpW9cHuyEtIw_4pi3Lmrn_jqNfdkzmO2Q53zGs-/s1600/Vineyard.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We stayed in Bliss cottage, steps away from town square: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwdqBuQ9F2ANIs384ZQNdYQi7pU3RKVWVaptKTDz7eVEv5BR58n8NGQtvzdjIsquOxHmck865Wb9KMJSV3zy-BL2e4yslHTZ7RlyK2OktxrCMUNqCipn12myiM4NZkFIHyZ6dhsi6mhT4/s1600/Hazel+KT+Bliss.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwdqBuQ9F2ANIs384ZQNdYQi7pU3RKVWVaptKTDz7eVEv5BR58n8NGQtvzdjIsquOxHmck865Wb9KMJSV3zy-BL2e4yslHTZ7RlyK2OktxrCMUNqCipn12myiM4NZkFIHyZ6dhsi6mhT4/s1600/Hazel+KT+Bliss.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Autumn is my favorite season and this place did not disappoint:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIp-moyxdDb31oub795phO_fl3mXl1U6Nwa_46_D1YYDPngIeOh54_hfYv0ATOyIWO-0Q5AOZaPdQRkq294WxU7P7zDdtsHOcQRyraXcB6SZaZD10gk0Dcc0vgVnjiNoxdKRlW8Qulrz5/s1600/Bird.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIp-moyxdDb31oub795phO_fl3mXl1U6Nwa_46_D1YYDPngIeOh54_hfYv0ATOyIWO-0Q5AOZaPdQRkq294WxU7P7zDdtsHOcQRyraXcB6SZaZD10gk0Dcc0vgVnjiNoxdKRlW8Qulrz5/s1600/Bird.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Why drive to wineries when you can bike there?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw5Vi2kx4vMNC58dorsWMB60RdaoYC77LGtWcjEYrvQGJbQsGxraYF93MmYDlgELUtEocRz-VJ_jc1oPmUs89PIpsld5PryhiIvDbwKusi1jGjsFI8D9I8qv2lPCpuec_-JFS8Kp3KY5W/s1600/Hazel+bike+helmet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw5Vi2kx4vMNC58dorsWMB60RdaoYC77LGtWcjEYrvQGJbQsGxraYF93MmYDlgELUtEocRz-VJ_jc1oPmUs89PIpsld5PryhiIvDbwKusi1jGjsFI8D9I8qv2lPCpuec_-JFS8Kp3KY5W/s1600/Hazel+bike+helmet.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjqKxGfT1iwZQCZn2yRW7nJ-oOGoVYFM2EuGHDkTlIhZnfZG1-5CVcntQ9Pc3TasjxjVXEg4oWpQF5KCO-X5Lspl0oFK88olCG7qoWEy3P572rBh7ApERcpCKlCLjn5lbDfKABZ83tAXY/s1600/hazel+bike+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjqKxGfT1iwZQCZn2yRW7nJ-oOGoVYFM2EuGHDkTlIhZnfZG1-5CVcntQ9Pc3TasjxjVXEg4oWpQF5KCO-X5Lspl0oFK88olCG7qoWEy3P572rBh7ApERcpCKlCLjn5lbDfKABZ83tAXY/s1600/hazel+bike+1.jpg" height="305" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVetEw-o2LtI8E1SKiag2DZvUKn_iPQ0XGALGXLTLPkp_WdZRKn1igx0ocd8tCjOCzZF3zVbtUwWH1RLbTF2oCm98mobJklaOjOtZlnrskjlga6aVTHIZ7dFUxaXR-0qGU175IasDP6WN-/s1600/Hazel+Adam+riding.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVetEw-o2LtI8E1SKiag2DZvUKn_iPQ0XGALGXLTLPkp_WdZRKn1igx0ocd8tCjOCzZF3zVbtUwWH1RLbTF2oCm98mobJklaOjOtZlnrskjlga6aVTHIZ7dFUxaXR-0qGU175IasDP6WN-/s1600/Hazel+Adam+riding.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our designated rider:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJk_EZVD6TpF0h4OB02V7GJQY_TXLILhBkLMo2f7PaMz5q2MirYSA-ogKobcOP_Gcg6l2iUGgnWgBfQtAiGGr3b5BpMPQCHIgYii2dK9UhbdNvFzSnbTs7LyeR6LitN_MfrpvILpE9b9nz/s1600/Hazel+16+Months.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJk_EZVD6TpF0h4OB02V7GJQY_TXLILhBkLMo2f7PaMz5q2MirYSA-ogKobcOP_Gcg6l2iUGgnWgBfQtAiGGr3b5BpMPQCHIgYii2dK9UhbdNvFzSnbTs7LyeR6LitN_MfrpvILpE9b9nz/s1600/Hazel+16+Months.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One morning we drove out to Cape Palliser, about an hour outside of town.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDIJFstTnN9i6o45QYjXsDoHYiY7bUBRFgYHxQL6YXpPv4yz6lei7F5e-z1xO6SBBn2OnYtYzwF6Z0ECKUYE1pRmL8lvRZTDyDgTxO8PVJnQ9I1mMRsuO80P4Ra1dbSd_gpQE_fqC6uxJ/s1600/Cape+palliser+rd.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDIJFstTnN9i6o45QYjXsDoHYiY7bUBRFgYHxQL6YXpPv4yz6lei7F5e-z1xO6SBBn2OnYtYzwF6Z0ECKUYE1pRmL8lvRZTDyDgTxO8PVJnQ9I1mMRsuO80P4Ra1dbSd_gpQE_fqC6uxJ/s1600/Cape+palliser+rd.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's no wonder New Zealand, called Aotearoa in Maori, is "the land of the long white cloud"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDvdA5KDao4Ro5ZwRx82mjIY6va5ARpQQCybp7JUxi4c_1wtHg2ZSRWjsfJeDCUsSbDXVfbLqs8haq1tO9EvoMBza5rV2n_8MjUkkXoiTv4eICCaEFwwjnZSBSz9byqwVSrC4pyMXI9Er/s1600/Cloud+Palliser.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDvdA5KDao4Ro5ZwRx82mjIY6va5ARpQQCybp7JUxi4c_1wtHg2ZSRWjsfJeDCUsSbDXVfbLqs8haq1tO9EvoMBza5rV2n_8MjUkkXoiTv4eICCaEFwwjnZSBSz9byqwVSrC4pyMXI9Er/s1600/Cloud+Palliser.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our destination- Cape Palliser Lighthouse:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-3KVgmB0wQKnVsUSXm_hEIAj7svT_JuMNFcoAAFYOF-ff5OXt0jnyReOTYbHovDEKPe1roq4xX7yqM7QVc4pVUq4kIWqPKPcIaDY6T8YVcQIyr8asKWEJJ6SFoK2v7basEmPu33v1AyG/s1600/Lighhouse+Cape+Palliser.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-3KVgmB0wQKnVsUSXm_hEIAj7svT_JuMNFcoAAFYOF-ff5OXt0jnyReOTYbHovDEKPe1roq4xX7yqM7QVc4pVUq4kIWqPKPcIaDY6T8YVcQIyr8asKWEJJ6SFoK2v7basEmPu33v1AyG/s1600/Lighhouse+Cape+Palliser.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The 251 steps to the top:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZVG0q9Y_37u7ccWhYOgTIZTb_TIQlKp-7ikMk4pAPaCXgDGTiTsaA4GJOnHFQASUZxwacfjxYklZw9HGRRDr6vXhdSnf1CPVN1qFgvNdZyzQOTivG5HlDbSQKYBOsHa5e_PRppydJ31I/s1600/Cape+Palliser+stairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZVG0q9Y_37u7ccWhYOgTIZTb_TIQlKp-7ikMk4pAPaCXgDGTiTsaA4GJOnHFQASUZxwacfjxYklZw9HGRRDr6vXhdSnf1CPVN1qFgvNdZyzQOTivG5HlDbSQKYBOsHa5e_PRppydJ31I/s1600/Cape+Palliser+stairs.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was windy up there:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkBXwrnH4nArg2xRJ_N2bxJwO8ymyBLH9aXTwlVC9WL42KsP4O27Iu3IwlK_4Uplbm3A_c3DPqAvzLWRHTfkc1ydgXMZQxvsINSU8T_QTrvWPeAZOriLGIUA7bK5MsN5k4xJHZOrgDYdMv/s1600/Hazel+cape.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkBXwrnH4nArg2xRJ_N2bxJwO8ymyBLH9aXTwlVC9WL42KsP4O27Iu3IwlK_4Uplbm3A_c3DPqAvzLWRHTfkc1ydgXMZQxvsINSU8T_QTrvWPeAZOriLGIUA7bK5MsN5k4xJHZOrgDYdMv/s1600/Hazel+cape.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But worth it:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuc-v7nWDNoFppTXLVz8ubdMNDXX26fso9X0SM9KVGvUG6HjAsXhDMq720plnDHQ0b6ZBoNE8RZRSz65WBBJ0k5hu_qiqcqszXUumwMA9fXiDNFgqklgFgfJSB9uiC3kClMulMcHYUdYp0/s1600/Hazel+KT+cape.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuc-v7nWDNoFppTXLVz8ubdMNDXX26fso9X0SM9KVGvUG6HjAsXhDMq720plnDHQ0b6ZBoNE8RZRSz65WBBJ0k5hu_qiqcqszXUumwMA9fXiDNFgqklgFgfJSB9uiC3kClMulMcHYUdYp0/s1600/Hazel+KT+cape.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What goes up must come down:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuE0w_qQToRWFKPc97K-7T9ElFPY3WwJjhY60ke0-2ej309sS1J4qGxmtK2MglU7o9FMLU0VBs3_kN_fKf3sN_cWJyQZwHN4PHnCUyiAmJbHbI4nL1ySapT9s1f9AjatZBbNykQk8lDUF/s1600/palliser+steps+down.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuE0w_qQToRWFKPc97K-7T9ElFPY3WwJjhY60ke0-2ej309sS1J4qGxmtK2MglU7o9FMLU0VBs3_kN_fKf3sN_cWJyQZwHN4PHnCUyiAmJbHbI4nL1ySapT9s1f9AjatZBbNykQk8lDUF/s1600/palliser+steps+down.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And what trip to a lighthouse is complete without some seaside seals:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbRWrv3KmxJ9Qg7Q_teTrjeL5UNAV6ZcKTXuN6BEnRajGO-EPRTF-ONtS3rmK_-Jc4HA0NbuBCCMtuqapjRDt2B4jh1EH8v3mQGtLgnUcJVp1gIINA1i4tkwGSSfYBd2kvyxAo8egCbbk/s1600/Seals.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbRWrv3KmxJ9Qg7Q_teTrjeL5UNAV6ZcKTXuN6BEnRajGO-EPRTF-ONtS3rmK_-Jc4HA0NbuBCCMtuqapjRDt2B4jh1EH8v3mQGtLgnUcJVp1gIINA1i4tkwGSSfYBd2kvyxAo8egCbbk/s1600/Seals.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Other highlights include lunch at Bar Salute in Greytown and a stop at Schoc Chocolates. Gourmet. Handmade. Delicious. And most importantly -free samples. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3nP4Upv0mwFKHLGLbtFwnSHJz9xK19xLRzuHIsvW7H6dH7ATAF42CgyhJu09-VAeKMp8G72bI5HezgR8iyK_zBvPutcpJWzs4RBvQjsK76M0VIT54bsTATqGrINqu29IueV2C21bJjsU/s1600/Schoc.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3nP4Upv0mwFKHLGLbtFwnSHJz9xK19xLRzuHIsvW7H6dH7ATAF42CgyhJu09-VAeKMp8G72bI5HezgR8iyK_zBvPutcpJWzs4RBvQjsK76M0VIT54bsTATqGrINqu29IueV2C21bJjsU/s1600/Schoc.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also lots of meals at Café Medici. Man that place was good. We got a local girl to babysit one night so we could hit the town, this really just meant eating dinner outside of home and later then 5:30pm. Woot woot. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I actually got another accidental night out as the first evening we were there I went to pick up dinner from the local pub for us and stumbled upon the first quiz night of the season. I stayed to eat dinner at the bar and to win it all. Just kidding I won nothing, but it was fun. Spontaneity is pretty much lost after having a kid so I appreciate such moments when they present themselves. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfHgj6iOegPQU8j9SNXwgMh85P2P65v-9lX1fWZvW7YZ4Am4hV3oInFBAtaO0FQFQHPL9mWxKpjwt2rYIxpnfaRPFhjvVZQxJUAooJRc56AuSdQ4a5PACFynXJLVW9aMWociNpT6AFMidb/s1600/pub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfHgj6iOegPQU8j9SNXwgMh85P2P65v-9lX1fWZvW7YZ4Am4hV3oInFBAtaO0FQFQHPL9mWxKpjwt2rYIxpnfaRPFhjvVZQxJUAooJRc56AuSdQ4a5PACFynXJLVW9aMWociNpT6AFMidb/s1600/pub.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wine, seals, and bike rides. Martinborough was definitely a great place to spend a low key, relaxing weekend. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9cGoXgpRU820uvI_Xy2LuayVSurEehCpzrZMjjKzYc47ufAzRra_SoDoXzc71FJ8_V4N9nPXTU12VcFje1iMbWZBD9oA8K8tDLxA168wHGY-jlEXDvVmWafONqYGK_DY3rf9UbTKHZS7Y/s1600/Hazel+closeup.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9cGoXgpRU820uvI_Xy2LuayVSurEehCpzrZMjjKzYc47ufAzRra_SoDoXzc71FJ8_V4N9nPXTU12VcFje1iMbWZBD9oA8K8tDLxA168wHGY-jlEXDvVmWafONqYGK_DY3rf9UbTKHZS7Y/s1600/Hazel+closeup.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-33670481778835673002014-04-26T19:53:00.001-07:002014-04-26T19:58:48.476-07:00South Island Adventures: Christchurch, Kaikoura, and BlenheimBy now most people know Kiwis get a lot of holiday time. In case anyone needs a refresher it's 4 weeks of vacation on top of 11 public holidays. And since we are throwing out facts it's also one year maternity leave. US start taking cues. Like now. Anyway, one of those holidays is Anniversary Day and every city has it's own anniversary. For this year's Auckland Anniversary, which was at the end of January, Adam, Hazel, and I took a trip to the South Island. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ezHuXsO_T8lpCBzmok9I_jLKkiP7XZOW73KOzI3uPIb0xeexbYHJ6cU4WWbUUU9Dbuwnz0aA-HDR5n7EmaU0al2ScQYFfvKspXOm3ssAHzRBRWg59iwk0OAKmg04X9Kwph-fBo0mgOmf/s1600/Kaikoura+map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ezHuXsO_T8lpCBzmok9I_jLKkiP7XZOW73KOzI3uPIb0xeexbYHJ6cU4WWbUUU9Dbuwnz0aA-HDR5n7EmaU0al2ScQYFfvKspXOm3ssAHzRBRWg59iwk0OAKmg04X9Kwph-fBo0mgOmf/s1600/Kaikoura+map.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
People often comment on how much we travel with Hazel, and yes we do, but people do you understand what a breeze it is to travel domestically here? I know I've talked about it before, but imagine just rolling up to the airport, printing your boarding pass a few minutes before the flight, and walking on board. Seriously it's that easy. Not even two hours later and voila you are South Island adventuring.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6F0e5DPbHXfaneUxb_2v3ElerIm9_5wdup0Tr7E0lapUkPeoNy-wV09nSTJFXjIwgQYV2qb2LNth68Ky6BbOvY6nFYXqty3qejDSVR0QKwxUJoVCdCVjjrGtxI1-f46vbNoyi5d7Q9mvH/s1600/kaikoura+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6F0e5DPbHXfaneUxb_2v3ElerIm9_5wdup0Tr7E0lapUkPeoNy-wV09nSTJFXjIwgQYV2qb2LNth68Ky6BbOvY6nFYXqty3qejDSVR0QKwxUJoVCdCVjjrGtxI1-f46vbNoyi5d7Q9mvH/s1600/kaikoura+2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We flew into Christchurch and really just spent the morning walking around the city and hitting the highlights. We fueled up at C1 Espresso, a local favorite. Christchurch is New Zealand's second largest city and in February 2011 it suffered a terrible earthquake destroying large parts of the city and killing 185 people and injuring many more. One cathedral that was struck has now been rebuilt from cardboard, local wood, and steel making it the only cathedral in the world made substantially of cardboard. It was pretty inspiring to be there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMp-1OhauVYvq-w6ftXw4VB-HgGZtEQDBsThi7YZDHmAfNWsCUD6keP7OV3HrmDBpUaKi_TgpYZq2PxvifoGqdhu9HqY_PEpAJgqVLEgQ3ZY-GCXaXJkwM5cuvcF5eJ_lWP_OvUN05ZpI/s1600/Christchurch+Cathedral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMp-1OhauVYvq-w6ftXw4VB-HgGZtEQDBsThi7YZDHmAfNWsCUD6keP7OV3HrmDBpUaKi_TgpYZq2PxvifoGqdhu9HqY_PEpAJgqVLEgQ3ZY-GCXaXJkwM5cuvcF5eJ_lWP_OvUN05ZpI/s1600/Christchurch+Cathedral.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Next stop, Kaikoura. WOW, this place was so beautiful. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKK_Rn8ipkyxjnlr6SaFRkkOuteiKZmslB5ByhGaCXTY4lbG_eiOF9YMzrigwd7EONRtlhyphenhyphensO1-Y534uK0JQ-qN-aMGURXWP1lSxyJryS-b217sCBwFVr0T3AS3U-KFfphzN0qy6MFx7SV/s1600/Kaikoura+view.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKK_Rn8ipkyxjnlr6SaFRkkOuteiKZmslB5ByhGaCXTY4lbG_eiOF9YMzrigwd7EONRtlhyphenhyphensO1-Y534uK0JQ-qN-aMGURXWP1lSxyJryS-b217sCBwFVr0T3AS3U-KFfphzN0qy6MFx7SV/s1600/Kaikoura+view.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Because it's so pretty Kaikoura naturally means, "meal of crayfish." According to Maori lore, some dude named Tamaki-te-rangi would stop here to eat while chasing his runaway wives and always get the crayfish. So when in Rome...I mean Kaikoura.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1IlYKgptjsT5pRLujDHM7siIRC1jhCrS59uCeSFP72MmACWjBG45StbI0FDIN1oaP2ViEMiG1PMT8H8y_x5y5KTCPlCrXnA2fH-4kyAFlIQ8vJ965r3dojyU7TyTOyhvYTx70k5PUX-1/s1600/adam+crayfish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1IlYKgptjsT5pRLujDHM7siIRC1jhCrS59uCeSFP72MmACWjBG45StbI0FDIN1oaP2ViEMiG1PMT8H8y_x5y5KTCPlCrXnA2fH-4kyAFlIQ8vJ965r3dojyU7TyTOyhvYTx70k5PUX-1/s1600/adam+crayfish.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Adam apparently was irritated he couldn't find his other wives, but he enjoyed his lunch none the less. So this place Nin's Bin where this picture was taken has been on the side of the road for years. Crayfish is basically like a lobster in that it is expensive, delicious, and best dipped in butter. A stop well worth it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLNLbfU2Xt_BIkVgUJSWhQJl368D6DtLnsu21TZgN-Qo4cLuSYS05FDTtRZLO0s_a_CvOIEVpfW-Rji8iW261859IYzKEJupiu-VsUtFbSS6lkXDkjEOgh3Dj6OOalySYhvgJQT4wejFh/s1600/Nin's+Bin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLNLbfU2Xt_BIkVgUJSWhQJl368D6DtLnsu21TZgN-Qo4cLuSYS05FDTtRZLO0s_a_CvOIEVpfW-Rji8iW261859IYzKEJupiu-VsUtFbSS6lkXDkjEOgh3Dj6OOalySYhvgJQT4wejFh/s1600/Nin's+Bin.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Other highlights include hiking the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwPTu1lJp6ewnXjAhDv9viAkySxeqZutQnKLEJ5qe0d-HuGcxin316MBc2gJxBOuMhqyCNS_ENCHcOGi8tyYUQpEJ4rWnRqECjfzzeUNvMYBSOXd09PIQUIXCXUEy7j__izorB5Bop5yt/s1600/DSC00544%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwPTu1lJp6ewnXjAhDv9viAkySxeqZutQnKLEJ5qe0d-HuGcxin316MBc2gJxBOuMhqyCNS_ENCHcOGi8tyYUQpEJ4rWnRqECjfzzeUNvMYBSOXd09PIQUIXCXUEy7j__izorB5Bop5yt/s1600/DSC00544%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's no wonder this town's tag line is, "Where the Mountains Meet the Sea"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIGUKyFRGi_VPCjMqrU4y082iPxiZv6eFQfWsV_jQCF7n6HpkHkJzJH_m2Rqpy5TU73PlLdekXDenUjZU3yXYn3qxy8j6aweO92AxvlyD8caE5JvBCSyr4sa_y9vLg6V5XdexUOUC5Cld/s1600/Hazel+KT+kaikoura.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIGUKyFRGi_VPCjMqrU4y082iPxiZv6eFQfWsV_jQCF7n6HpkHkJzJH_m2Rqpy5TU73PlLdekXDenUjZU3yXYn3qxy8j6aweO92AxvlyD8caE5JvBCSyr4sa_y9vLg6V5XdexUOUC5Cld/s1600/Hazel+KT+kaikoura.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Drinks at the Pier Hotel (don't miss the trampoline out back), seal colony, and ice cream at Poppy's.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWC_ZBJmT2o0c44vk1utuez-8CZWYUvocVMzsXZLImBeEYYf98_Py1i3ab7bgR6YbxInb8xDtgjDAZls4bEhEVnlBbwn0BrGarMaFweUuUnUVM1mcmNeLPh4SnhS0GkxzmhhPLhSHNafBx/s1600/Poppy's.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWC_ZBJmT2o0c44vk1utuez-8CZWYUvocVMzsXZLImBeEYYf98_Py1i3ab7bgR6YbxInb8xDtgjDAZls4bEhEVnlBbwn0BrGarMaFweUuUnUVM1mcmNeLPh4SnhS0GkxzmhhPLhSHNafBx/s1600/Poppy's.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Kaikoura is actually the whale watching capital of the world, yes the world! But due to choppy seas we didn't make the trip. FYI, for those travelling with a baby that want to do the whale watch there is a local babysitter who will take your kid to the park and around town while you go on the boat. For those that actually went, what it might have been like:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBb_3ZXg09SYTfjUPVuKxF3z_UDkw5HBWEe7TMT22BgeXGwkgsQ-Zk57okZN5IfFtO8RtEOnFbcyIVLM2ap04IyhjptIAXF2pmvJWrZqMsLBXoUKeOWGtkARcr1K4rzTTswbFlO3sdYov/s1600/whale+watch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBb_3ZXg09SYTfjUPVuKxF3z_UDkw5HBWEe7TMT22BgeXGwkgsQ-Zk57okZN5IfFtO8RtEOnFbcyIVLM2ap04IyhjptIAXF2pmvJWrZqMsLBXoUKeOWGtkARcr1K4rzTTswbFlO3sdYov/s1600/whale+watch.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We stayed at a funky spot called the Artist Retreat that had farm animals and incredible views.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rnysltst_QOli8eblF_6SD12Xva_7QFzzemp0csyzT2vUp9aTpGQiL5iLFpvzcN45sgALOKSFv78N3Vf0drRW4lXYDCzW8MOoA_n51eumUEqoZY_HjbWYknslYg4RA4tqwhem6AxZHZT/s1600/hazel+high+chair+kaikoura.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rnysltst_QOli8eblF_6SD12Xva_7QFzzemp0csyzT2vUp9aTpGQiL5iLFpvzcN45sgALOKSFv78N3Vf0drRW4lXYDCzW8MOoA_n51eumUEqoZY_HjbWYknslYg4RA4tqwhem6AxZHZT/s1600/hazel+high+chair+kaikoura.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
From Kaikoura we drove up the coast to Blenheim. Blenheim is in the heart of Malborough and Malborough means wine!! Malborough is one of the world's largest sauvignon blanc producers. That's one of the white ones for you non wine drinkers. Oh my goodness, so much good wine and in such a beautiful setting. Over the course of the weekend we managed to hit up many tasting rooms including Hunters, Fromm, Spy Valley, Nautilus, and Cloudy Bay. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGyZNJjzbUuhXspnQ7zNazuBFEjzKcsSa7Dc1bQHjuKcLAq9MVqaArCDGKWUMYkYqa4u831JvCkZxWw2krbxGWfQDVD026SGirkXcBKPzDbG_zgYNf3b-MyjGNxkQZQh5cBYa30F2OPEH/s1600/Hazel+Cloudy+Bay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGyZNJjzbUuhXspnQ7zNazuBFEjzKcsSa7Dc1bQHjuKcLAq9MVqaArCDGKWUMYkYqa4u831JvCkZxWw2krbxGWfQDVD026SGirkXcBKPzDbG_zgYNf3b-MyjGNxkQZQh5cBYa30F2OPEH/s1600/Hazel+Cloudy+Bay.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Lunch at Hans Herzog:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw8B6FXEnZ2HFz5fa8pTapbk-wEtp7Sa6hSmbP1G_0ot_inzErQqBxjBRkaRVfUPgrDqIlQMFSM81grmrvQZLUTQVxaBymQPEdhC9fHt4_BhJVNPb1jc7V7jTQlDb_aYR4g5dVfWGK1cnF/s1600/Katie+Hans+Herzog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw8B6FXEnZ2HFz5fa8pTapbk-wEtp7Sa6hSmbP1G_0ot_inzErQqBxjBRkaRVfUPgrDqIlQMFSM81grmrvQZLUTQVxaBymQPEdhC9fHt4_BhJVNPb1jc7V7jTQlDb_aYR4g5dVfWGK1cnF/s1600/Katie+Hans+Herzog.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And Allan Scott:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6nFDpxY-tjKfUpHQ9riqFht7ee3856n75bIHppVbmnuyquqZXslF2nGl_aMjs778tMd7HLdgGHv0bGPWJ2LX2ARevmBIsccahXJ44FrXB6OTsu1FBxFAFCkaf6LRn4VppdBDbBhD4wEQ/s1600/alan+scott.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6nFDpxY-tjKfUpHQ9riqFht7ee3856n75bIHppVbmnuyquqZXslF2nGl_aMjs778tMd7HLdgGHv0bGPWJ2LX2ARevmBIsccahXJ44FrXB6OTsu1FBxFAFCkaf6LRn4VppdBDbBhD4wEQ/s1600/alan+scott.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We stayed in a lovely little cottage amongst the vines. It was perfection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHUruUqDsHVa7zhus2HGhiuJho9CmWy-bYzU02pxqraHJnhml_7roQzdiKqrB4KLnUO9Rzq0FcBmhH1c_iL214urcg9BjH5ML74HBdrXTk12-lxTiFD7hsCiwL1f3n5eJ8w7ayIPxDzIW/s1600/Blenheim+cottage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHUruUqDsHVa7zhus2HGhiuJho9CmWy-bYzU02pxqraHJnhml_7roQzdiKqrB4KLnUO9Rzq0FcBmhH1c_iL214urcg9BjH5ML74HBdrXTk12-lxTiFD7hsCiwL1f3n5eJ8w7ayIPxDzIW/s1600/Blenheim+cottage.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I mean seriously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVVn7IIpy-L1lm_je1tVDPrrVbWYBkITEVU6Iefj8k15mNxPHsONOVgg1zA6kPA-LdUaipCMlj3gffccat4bh35hhSvKhiN_mUYSXlPQ3HX39gk9aWvYt14aO8hecg0pmlILlkvWfaEj1/s1600/Blenheim+vines.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVVn7IIpy-L1lm_je1tVDPrrVbWYBkITEVU6Iefj8k15mNxPHsONOVgg1zA6kPA-LdUaipCMlj3gffccat4bh35hhSvKhiN_mUYSXlPQ3HX39gk9aWvYt14aO8hecg0pmlILlkvWfaEj1/s1600/Blenheim+vines.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also not to be missed, the view from Brancott Estate: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLS3c6XoJl25VSv5hwe13Rkub_s7CjV77jpQ3E_WAi2NMI_x_AD-oFrl6A-2lediM7xeqb2D-j8UgJURkw2qu3RZv44ZGy4ILfXBfJfeBTOeyfrKrG44EH9Yx6AwAt3RvuCg-wt8hSOZ6/s1600/brancott+estates.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLS3c6XoJl25VSv5hwe13Rkub_s7CjV77jpQ3E_WAi2NMI_x_AD-oFrl6A-2lediM7xeqb2D-j8UgJURkw2qu3RZv44ZGy4ILfXBfJfeBTOeyfrKrG44EH9Yx6AwAt3RvuCg-wt8hSOZ6/s1600/brancott+estates.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-35498927023146558792014-04-18T12:35:00.000-07:002014-04-18T12:35:14.591-07:00Islands in the StreamTo all of you that don't live in New Zealand. Here's what you're missing:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMx7hWIx5WRHp-1yLYGBrCwSQqp3AKBKBn1QNurjWZ-SgJT_n49CNZKP4Oayo9GzOzV2eHQAPK7Us0O52KLt6O5Pa4LxENn6qVHZvXKFUiNH44IRNhA_KBU2rlrqEm3I_WTuEyeJKbj9IJ/s1600/Kaikoura.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMx7hWIx5WRHp-1yLYGBrCwSQqp3AKBKBn1QNurjWZ-SgJT_n49CNZKP4Oayo9GzOzV2eHQAPK7Us0O52KLt6O5Pa4LxENn6qVHZvXKFUiNH44IRNhA_KBU2rlrqEm3I_WTuEyeJKbj9IJ/s1600/Kaikoura.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I know it's been a while so just wanted to make sure everyone could still envision our little island life on the other side of the world. Glad we got that sorted. Ahh sorted, just one of the many words I've picked up in the past couple years. It's funny because although NZ is an English speaking country there are times it really feels like a different language. I'm use to it now and so much of it has integrated naturally into my own vocab, but I was thinking back to initially how strange it all was. To help you understand, here's the same conversation two ways:<br />
<br />
Hazel, take the underwear off your head and finish your snack so we can go to the beach and meet the Royals*. I'll need to change your diaper and put on your bathing suit. Now where did I put my flip flops? Mommy has to go to the bathroom and put the clothes in the dryer first and then we'll be ready to go. Do you think Kate and Will drink Bud or Bud light? Please pass me my phone so I can find out, thank you Hazel. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8MC8nJRrGjuxZDrn_X16ubjdDSIXlxoIsAR-oWpIofL4AgQ7UmJ_OILozc1zpXm8324TJaKI7dhPVrbkcU0iI99aSc4ZCnBYlrBNsxEF0MjHnGIZyKIKVkShDRi9UueiUilNPFXcuoo4/s1600/Hazel+sunnies+castor+bay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8MC8nJRrGjuxZDrn_X16ubjdDSIXlxoIsAR-oWpIofL4AgQ7UmJ_OILozc1zpXm8324TJaKI7dhPVrbkcU0iI99aSc4ZCnBYlrBNsxEF0MjHnGIZyKIKVkShDRi9UueiUilNPFXcuoo4/s1600/Hazel+sunnies+castor+bay.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hazel, take the underwear off your head and finish your morning tea so we can go to the beach and meet the Royals.* I'll need to change your nappy and put your togs on. Now where did I put my jandals? Mummy has to go the toilet and hang the clothes first and then I'll be ready to go. Do you think Will and Kate drink Speights or Steinlager? Please pass me my phone so I can get it organised. Ta Hazel.<br />
<br />
*Will and Kate were unable to meet us at the beach that day. Apparently they had a better offer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRrHV6y8o9RiSQQeyio2vfd7Kh8RaV2SBvVu5Nz76E2mw6TTDYmHxo34tI49xZ4ymioJaTwPcciddVWpk3_HGCFXn_lTuso7axnKTjM9QZsP2TuVQKMh6-KnNU0vc4IvlttdRm-BzpwkyH/s1600/Royals+in+NZ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRrHV6y8o9RiSQQeyio2vfd7Kh8RaV2SBvVu5Nz76E2mw6TTDYmHxo34tI49xZ4ymioJaTwPcciddVWpk3_HGCFXn_lTuso7axnKTjM9QZsP2TuVQKMh6-KnNU0vc4IvlttdRm-BzpwkyH/s1600/Royals+in+NZ.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
While we didn't host the royals while they were here we did host some other international travelers. CISV, Children's International Summer Village, is an organization that I was involved with when I was younger. I think I mentioned on an earlier post that as a part of this, I went to live in Finland for a month with kids from all over the world. Part of that experience involved staying with a host family for a weekend to experience typical Finnish life. Fast forward many years later and now I'm playing hostess with the mostess to two 11-year-old boys, because nothing says classic Kiwi experience like living with an American couple that has been in the country for two years. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfCWZ3J6aDQqgaZLX7sDm9awie9S-Rq3YpEAoaYnat1im0LeiMuxi4rHYMxCWUDuH4rJvDMAdeDC6gvywh6B35NZnjIFEI2oFRBvUYWGnV7TC2WLDGu0E86mnEGg6NW2PXDQDhLFpWk1P/s1600/CISV+boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfCWZ3J6aDQqgaZLX7sDm9awie9S-Rq3YpEAoaYnat1im0LeiMuxi4rHYMxCWUDuH4rJvDMAdeDC6gvywh6B35NZnjIFEI2oFRBvUYWGnV7TC2WLDGu0E86mnEGg6NW2PXDQDhLFpWk1P/s1600/CISV+boys.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Kenneth was from the Philippines and Liam hailed from an exotic country across the ditch called Australia. We played tour guide part of the time, but honestly they just loved playing basketball with Adam at our local park so we spent a lot of time there. They were very cute with Hazel and when we dropped them off at camp they pointed at Hazel and told their friends, "That's the baby I helped take care of." <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyFs65j7ngU3WzgHA7kpKbcbfLkVqPDS2VTaJZ4Jz915-kTZsJhrjfMSNr-rI60gYOmiyVpK7BoqZeSgSAkVWRJ3XhWW7IopzafiCNqD5VXBK4OyHwgZdRrLrvjxkKo7SZtlljr0a-P_k/s1600/CISV+basketball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyFs65j7ngU3WzgHA7kpKbcbfLkVqPDS2VTaJZ4Jz915-kTZsJhrjfMSNr-rI60gYOmiyVpK7BoqZeSgSAkVWRJ3XhWW7IopzafiCNqD5VXBK4OyHwgZdRrLrvjxkKo7SZtlljr0a-P_k/s1600/CISV+basketball.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Another memorable quote happened while watching American Ninja Warrior. They saw one of the contestants doing the obstacle course and called to me in the kitchen that I had to come watch, "because there is a guy that is like 36 and he has big muscles and he even has a kid." A 36-year-old guy in good physical shape and a father was apparently about as shocking to them as a freak at the circus. Awesome. <br />
<br />
After all that international-ness I decided it was time to go back to my roots and kick it Tennessee style, which is why I went to see Dolly Parton in February. That and the fact that I love me some Dolly. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNBzwcvEU0JyPajBQ1fqYVHIGY1IMTi-IfiV_smmBtBLBGfW6SVyKPirdDOfC86Wuks3uFCKupduAbcwrG2zIYHwu_d8-oesUV3_WLrTXLt1D881tpPWZhMUA7lqqLUumrFND3CbAe4mo/s1600/Dolly+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNBzwcvEU0JyPajBQ1fqYVHIGY1IMTi-IfiV_smmBtBLBGfW6SVyKPirdDOfC86Wuks3uFCKupduAbcwrG2zIYHwu_d8-oesUV3_WLrTXLt1D881tpPWZhMUA7lqqLUumrFND3CbAe4mo/s1600/Dolly+1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Life is short, so spur of the moment I found a 2nd row solo seat on Trade Me and Adam got it for me for my birthday. It was so good. She freaking played Rocky Top! Me listening to Rocky Top in Auckland, New Zealand. I can say with 99.9% certainty that I was the only person in Vector Arena that knew the words. For those not familiar with said song I realize this will mean nothing, but for those that are of course it means everything. It was a great show and despite crying through most of the first set, I had a great time. I mean Jolene live is just too much to handle for this girl.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivktmwHlWc6YEvixiK8Ka6bMQD-OCvhuBb4xhCJKqAeBROWK3_CoaoxOEugzjRHB1S5ravbaQG0zk9GI_6JT85IGsA4o-c3OaBlxfjLbKgsUa7EHe8tWmrpHJ2sMJdRjmPg8ERm45mAKzV/s1600/Dolly+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivktmwHlWc6YEvixiK8Ka6bMQD-OCvhuBb4xhCJKqAeBROWK3_CoaoxOEugzjRHB1S5ravbaQG0zk9GI_6JT85IGsA4o-c3OaBlxfjLbKgsUa7EHe8tWmrpHJ2sMJdRjmPg8ERm45mAKzV/s1600/Dolly+2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
In other news, Hazel just finished her first term at "school." Something amazing they offer here is a community crèche, which is a non-profit community early childhood centre, basically a little day care. It's fabulous because the sessions are just twice a week for a few hours, and ready for the most amazing part - It cost $12!! Not per hour, which would still be a steal, but for the whole session! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikTauDVUQ7d5Ovzm7IqNAQCBcXPrhuxt17MeeC1HHsgD7l_ldOpp2r_SRDvJ3FJXPOMGLd7PHP0w4NzrtByidlp1UoMx3hFrDInBO72ELIA0kNiG3JLhyphenhyphenZYwb_YPPz_ZE82m73bfwyHDqt/s1600/Creche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikTauDVUQ7d5Ovzm7IqNAQCBcXPrhuxt17MeeC1HHsgD7l_ldOpp2r_SRDvJ3FJXPOMGLd7PHP0w4NzrtByidlp1UoMx3hFrDInBO72ELIA0kNiG3JLhyphenhyphenZYwb_YPPz_ZE82m73bfwyHDqt/s1600/Creche.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I thought surely for this price they must stick them in a dark room and slide their food under the door, but no it's totally legit. They have all sorts of great activities for them and its mixed ages so Hazel gets socialized with lots of different kids. The teachers are great and she loves it. They even make a book for each child highlighting their time there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCe_AcGBCcfqFPUn_A6QGX5a4OGiGcKE50xlRpqt4dgUp0LvR9beelXhJpPdbeXwp4KKbyQYmeohcQJMapXA4DFDsaEPtHcr_lrgYo89ssL3YyHX8AklSKiUaDPOfc54oHTXkEEuQTPt1/s1600/Hazel+creche+1st+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCe_AcGBCcfqFPUn_A6QGX5a4OGiGcKE50xlRpqt4dgUp0LvR9beelXhJpPdbeXwp4KKbyQYmeohcQJMapXA4DFDsaEPtHcr_lrgYo89ssL3YyHX8AklSKiUaDPOfc54oHTXkEEuQTPt1/s1600/Hazel+creche+1st+day.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
With my new found freedom I've started playing tennis once a week and it's been so fun. I clearly need the outlet seeing as on the way to the courts last week, "Eye of the Tiger" came on the radio and I immediately envisioned myself as a warrior/athlete/powerhouse destroying the ball and anyone in it's path. So yes, I'd say it's a good thing. <br />
<br />
Otherwise it's business as usual. That means lots of trips to the beach:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDwG-qRV4Pmb8s91DH03OKW_W5ppW30ivbH1KavZAxI160OIJ-M2XAg2Wbh8HvZwMSX0LYDLuq-76mbIlSn5OyNPTRIuxGJGpmOkgtoh1AQezz2aH9AToz5kk4aQWy_8ne3CagkA4N3QW/s1600/Hazel+castor+bay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDwG-qRV4Pmb8s91DH03OKW_W5ppW30ivbH1KavZAxI160OIJ-M2XAg2Wbh8HvZwMSX0LYDLuq-76mbIlSn5OyNPTRIuxGJGpmOkgtoh1AQezz2aH9AToz5kk4aQWy_8ne3CagkA4N3QW/s1600/Hazel+castor+bay.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
WARNING: Obscene number of photos of the same child follow, please turn back now if this is not the path for you.<br />
<br />
Birthday parties:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6zFBPnSeRpGq1BsiwdL8ubLXPzNhxBmZtNBo2gm-qIN1ImmCjKqZ37fKJvEdg5TJbs8ZfOUfIudGaNCRueS9ckCNu8649RUFY8g5TFJi4PdkuVkx9dmFf7XflfXv1oNf4MZH-nZTI2Uz/s1600/Hazel+13+months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6zFBPnSeRpGq1BsiwdL8ubLXPzNhxBmZtNBo2gm-qIN1ImmCjKqZ37fKJvEdg5TJbs8ZfOUfIudGaNCRueS9ckCNu8649RUFY8g5TFJi4PdkuVkx9dmFf7XflfXv1oNf4MZH-nZTI2Uz/s1600/Hazel+13+months.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Sunny days on the back patio:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieelPrThVmttmR6gSP_8Rdx6k04Sswlgrk1rqBHrEdxK9sggjiW5T9eYybV7hVXREOAAH8HWIpy6ZNwHNvdyIlNzQMAzMQKIKNvsfS37o3ewF6F2S8Ftyn6P_nCubVLZC3GIf0d4vt9st4/s1600/Hazel+hose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieelPrThVmttmR6gSP_8Rdx6k04Sswlgrk1rqBHrEdxK9sggjiW5T9eYybV7hVXREOAAH8HWIpy6ZNwHNvdyIlNzQMAzMQKIKNvsfS37o3ewF6F2S8Ftyn6P_nCubVLZC3GIf0d4vt9st4/s1600/Hazel+hose.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A trip to the zoo:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwq0zOtu01eiH1RrsxPGuG2qR2VjGdVvcxWLkZ55qBNciv4IOdTQlZrBRdTixIy1Cik8ya4YLyPI2k0HGXpP_yZij7yLwj9yCXBFkgxpI7cg6RGQzKOF0XcIOdgsja5yzZOexS-xvQ1mys/s1600/Hazel+Dad+zoo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwq0zOtu01eiH1RrsxPGuG2qR2VjGdVvcxWLkZ55qBNciv4IOdTQlZrBRdTixIy1Cik8ya4YLyPI2k0HGXpP_yZij7yLwj9yCXBFkgxpI7cg6RGQzKOF0XcIOdgsja5yzZOexS-xvQ1mys/s1600/Hazel+Dad+zoo.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Fun at coffee group:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VOw_m_MYd-iT1VUJLRKWpXpohpM-xFWG3mkS1Dn2tZZzF0PMkGrlidrKV5IBO6Wh9viL3tn6h2TedDehHeu4PlNa8k7ldtshGkGA0-ihUBsuOF4DX6N8Cc6wTW9K-1JUZGVLNiqZ6wp4/s1600/Hazel+at+Tina's+15+months.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VOw_m_MYd-iT1VUJLRKWpXpohpM-xFWG3mkS1Dn2tZZzF0PMkGrlidrKV5IBO6Wh9viL3tn6h2TedDehHeu4PlNa8k7ldtshGkGA0-ihUBsuOF4DX6N8Cc6wTW9K-1JUZGVLNiqZ6wp4/s1600/Hazel+at+Tina's+15+months.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Bike rides:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKCb-LOBrDzJt0OzT9041hs0Tpzz6LpSv4lu2pVr0iAUkAcMz15KKkrJWJZZ_LuSdVwd2zSqo1iYjWN782iZgsMMRilX64WhuN67roQGE3D5JmnpDkO7CTN5Cr9pA9TuyMWal-gNDZZX7/s1600/Hazel+bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKCb-LOBrDzJt0OzT9041hs0Tpzz6LpSv4lu2pVr0iAUkAcMz15KKkrJWJZZ_LuSdVwd2zSqo1iYjWN782iZgsMMRilX64WhuN67roQGE3D5JmnpDkO7CTN5Cr9pA9TuyMWal-gNDZZX7/s1600/Hazel+bike.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Swinging at the playground:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xI4KCUvTVI4RTIBDRPqRsZgOFcT7cpYmlpWX8DBI8MKI47VQWEYtrRNw6FRE5qriSJ8m3PxqFTCTJmZhwWaWaUVKh2QhhD0T8rZSX5JGXWiRojPvtouVHkeG2XLiW0LzJMdc9G_EfaXm/s1600/Hazel+hanging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xI4KCUvTVI4RTIBDRPqRsZgOFcT7cpYmlpWX8DBI8MKI47VQWEYtrRNw6FRE5qriSJ8m3PxqFTCTJmZhwWaWaUVKh2QhhD0T8rZSX5JGXWiRojPvtouVHkeG2XLiW0LzJMdc9G_EfaXm/s1600/Hazel+hanging.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Walks in the park:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9q17bIPuULh21g4y2ScAysCiUgMkCq8lmDZOaUUcjIgefgFpHivouKoVQ8lhxVLSkgoCL0SsVTZJRN531LcqTygGWfQUWjDrRLNQzb4EMosHKC-a4KzrFGTUekLgAebB7rqact1idRgG/s1600/Hazel+post+creche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9q17bIPuULh21g4y2ScAysCiUgMkCq8lmDZOaUUcjIgefgFpHivouKoVQ8lhxVLSkgoCL0SsVTZJRN531LcqTygGWfQUWjDrRLNQzb4EMosHKC-a4KzrFGTUekLgAebB7rqact1idRgG/s1600/Hazel+post+creche.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Chillin':<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qKy73vt6fDX1r76UzRk9hu_fypa2WF63ro-KECynkXpsnWJTrRva7SNaJt8Hxv6YyhHHAndfBXnG4diXpnIK8FoRzZDD2b4mCQrSPKZTokpnxDX0YjX056jBHS37E37RNdu-PAvhJ9ig/s1600/Hazel+headband+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4qKy73vt6fDX1r76UzRk9hu_fypa2WF63ro-KECynkXpsnWJTrRva7SNaJt8Hxv6YyhHHAndfBXnG4diXpnIK8FoRzZDD2b4mCQrSPKZTokpnxDX0YjX056jBHS37E37RNdu-PAvhJ9ig/s1600/Hazel+headband+1.jpg" height="320" width="271" /></a></div>
<br />
Afternoon errands:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz04goVwoKA9nqOGSgDur7VU_rc8cBKFjFGJON_5njJTc1chUcIGFVOpIQC2jthWPCP4RKAN_pn6AaX9mdenev7HyZH-VPs2UYOg1iV14IX7QIK6XM4A6iwQlgapNUzEZiMioPecQkQaq/s1600/Hazel+tulips+15+months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz04goVwoKA9nqOGSgDur7VU_rc8cBKFjFGJON_5njJTc1chUcIGFVOpIQC2jthWPCP4RKAN_pn6AaX9mdenev7HyZH-VPs2UYOg1iV14IX7QIK6XM4A6iwQlgapNUzEZiMioPecQkQaq/s1600/Hazel+tulips+15+months.jpg" height="320" width="234" /></a></div>
<br />
Elevator (kiwspeak - lift) rides at the library:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLW-6_lGQkJGiwk-71HlWN16t50SI3y9Y1gYCfFJ6FYEikefvbghfXvH7M2xoVsYmjqLKnnBP6ejyl9zMvWlIg3fyh1XBabHRddcTBd-vylCC3Z49zZVPqAPBSZuIQIDW39W95HSNn1a5/s1600/Hazel+taka+lift.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLW-6_lGQkJGiwk-71HlWN16t50SI3y9Y1gYCfFJ6FYEikefvbghfXvH7M2xoVsYmjqLKnnBP6ejyl9zMvWlIg3fyh1XBabHRddcTBd-vylCC3Z49zZVPqAPBSZuIQIDW39W95HSNn1a5/s1600/Hazel+taka+lift.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Outings to kid friendly cafes:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0v75SE1gXCo-E3IuYw6LHOC6resJ4ffEq8mPj_pQNPaqlCs3yNGU5JdY9E-v_MwyJRURlsDzfxeT2f8p9ZYBO5hrBmQHgrxUXhmVU2_RRejuPRmktYbZhxN3fVPwLs3Xm5sKH3Bn8CH3Q/s1600/Hazel+playhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0v75SE1gXCo-E3IuYw6LHOC6resJ4ffEq8mPj_pQNPaqlCs3yNGU5JdY9E-v_MwyJRURlsDzfxeT2f8p9ZYBO5hrBmQHgrxUXhmVU2_RRejuPRmktYbZhxN3fVPwLs3Xm5sKH3Bn8CH3Q/s1600/Hazel+playhouse.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And as we move closer to Winter I'll cherish days like this one at Bethells Beach.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiERTSGk5l_AltrG_6G4JPG0cf-9HbVAzukcgJVuqXWwYoMoGVyNYirzJoRypJdLIXiNDsTcmhMxNjHcHWwy_RtAxrtURWnm9Ii5R8w3BoP1A3ZANztq-fmG0mOu0jh5N8nVGfeoO3mc4e_/s1600/Hazel+running+Bethell's.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiERTSGk5l_AltrG_6G4JPG0cf-9HbVAzukcgJVuqXWwYoMoGVyNYirzJoRypJdLIXiNDsTcmhMxNjHcHWwy_RtAxrtURWnm9Ii5R8w3BoP1A3ZANztq-fmG0mOu0jh5N8nVGfeoO3mc4e_/s1600/Hazel+running+Bethell's.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXCfGTW0WhcxIFduhdv2oafcnOtQg4DQKaZTQtsOoy6KzrunYGKyGNkx1PVlgzPhU_BeuWG_V8bcRBypGwNPKC9puxKR39UcBTWbP5lSmEMeCv9eEEcpqS0kigmSX3uLdPPHCDUuIAxY1/s1600/Hazel+Bethell's+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXCfGTW0WhcxIFduhdv2oafcnOtQg4DQKaZTQtsOoy6KzrunYGKyGNkx1PVlgzPhU_BeuWG_V8bcRBypGwNPKC9puxKR39UcBTWbP5lSmEMeCv9eEEcpqS0kigmSX3uLdPPHCDUuIAxY1/s1600/Hazel+Bethell's+Beach.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When New Zealand is good, it's so good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0_XGl47Z980HPghzDJFeCTt_EfglVsEYUJAD_wS3VObpVsVPKFTZFucK0VR8GAiNozcbL0Qbjz7vlyJVthq0qu4GW8c5is4oJlkJlv6hRIvKJaM-xjxoE0lq3j06PG9incbSvFUVNRnN/s1600/Hazel+Mom+Bethell's.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0_XGl47Z980HPghzDJFeCTt_EfglVsEYUJAD_wS3VObpVsVPKFTZFucK0VR8GAiNozcbL0Qbjz7vlyJVthq0qu4GW8c5is4oJlkJlv6hRIvKJaM-xjxoE0lq3j06PG9incbSvFUVNRnN/s1600/Hazel+Mom+Bethell's.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-11900235932478746242014-03-10T13:21:00.000-07:002014-03-12T11:53:28.468-07:00The 1st Year of Motherhood: A Retrospective<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To commemorate surviving my first year of
motherhood, PJ, Pretend Journalist, is back to interview me on those first 365
days. Any resemblance to an actual interview, with persons living or dead, is
entirely coincidental.</span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRM4EIziIMFyfjfuYLKL62T-hxluuxO351-L0tWa2eOHZhoJUx8N1MeMW5hSKcyeG0-L6xpQMViQaxdkZ3mAHMqaceOyV7QGi092o81V56OFkXe9uETOw07UMWxXYszLhyphenhyphentWf8MfOmS8e/s1600/AKV_6935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRM4EIziIMFyfjfuYLKL62T-hxluuxO351-L0tWa2eOHZhoJUx8N1MeMW5hSKcyeG0-L6xpQMViQaxdkZ3mAHMqaceOyV7QGi092o81V56OFkXe9uETOw07UMWxXYszLhyphenhyphentWf8MfOmS8e/s1600/AKV_6935.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-NZ"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><o:p></o:p></span><span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: Wow. Last time I saw you, you were big
as a house. I guess that basketball finally decided to make it’s way to the
court. When did she finally arrive?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYITK0R6V82ATOVFsFMnLOgjolNHxWfkIaf-ggEmoBoi9vBasn9M7-bHSauKLv8sssqwgoL5eGHxnUce9Ivd2vKVVUHXiPOp5kOw7XhlWEcBEt6cgF91zPi00HWa9HFVoFoWzGnF4PbZh/s1600/hazel+day+of+birth+5+jan+13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYITK0R6V82ATOVFsFMnLOgjolNHxWfkIaf-ggEmoBoi9vBasn9M7-bHSauKLv8sssqwgoL5eGHxnUce9Ivd2vKVVUHXiPOp5kOw7XhlWEcBEt6cgF91zPi00HWa9HFVoFoWzGnF4PbZh/s1600/hazel+day+of+birth+5+jan+13.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: Jan 5<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>, 2013. She was 15
days late. I was beyond ready and by ready I mean over it. Clearly she arrived
on her own sweet time. Hard to believe she is over a year old already.</span></span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5XtRm5ilVZ-Z-EPxlsYAYJh1kmbRYJqsup68XLbQISPz_MZc2OyksQYISJaTNNc5YGw-qyrLEnPr-D2T4DzqpG1uwBhX8dWlXOtkCJV8zZcVyXfkEgoK5EQkNBjAmtdIC2W9kHCF8FLHQ/s1600/Hazel+1st+Birthday.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5XtRm5ilVZ-Z-EPxlsYAYJh1kmbRYJqsup68XLbQISPz_MZc2OyksQYISJaTNNc5YGw-qyrLEnPr-D2T4DzqpG1uwBhX8dWlXOtkCJV8zZcVyXfkEgoK5EQkNBjAmtdIC2W9kHCF8FLHQ/s1600/Hazel+1st+Birthday.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: Well, it’s not really that hard to
believe actually. It’s just simple math or maths as they call it in the country
you’re living in.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: I know it’s just one of those cliché
things Moms say that feels so real when it’s your child. It’s the longest days,
but fastest weeks kind of time thing.</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYzdRyWGmPdOOIXkpGTGEbIlFVyzc0BYqt_cgFWpWa3SXzRKmiBokblcmlhiCo8Cfyb1LIDNYDdUJtgKeyn-1BNmg5OIvP4xb4zooZhFmFW2NE3kWafurSwQf1vWshczyifFLCFHqXDAm/s1600/hazel+sleeping+10+days.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYzdRyWGmPdOOIXkpGTGEbIlFVyzc0BYqt_cgFWpWa3SXzRKmiBokblcmlhiCo8Cfyb1LIDNYDdUJtgKeyn-1BNmg5OIvP4xb4zooZhFmFW2NE3kWafurSwQf1vWshczyifFLCFHqXDAm/s1600/hazel+sleeping+10+days.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: So what do you remember about those
early days?</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: Oh man, I remember quite a bit - the exhaustion, the hormones, the my life is just beginning/my life is over feelings, but at
the same time a lot is really foggy. I do remember very clearly being at birth care in Warkworth
and holding Hazel, she was a day old, and it really hitting me that she was
mine. That finally she was here and just weeping. I was so happy. The joy was
overwhelming. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced and still is. Having a child is
indescribable.</span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrS02E-w1Ol6ZD2woeJkGVqb0Qcj9O6eQJpq-9EXq2zx-BIuVl7dNSfO-DywJNRdLlRn4A3zUISokjMA3Qi_JO-i_KbsY_u_1ndts_NAKszrMhHhi-3EVvK7YmcNq0wAYdj-NvXclMaEM/s1600/hazel+and+katie+KIWI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrS02E-w1Ol6ZD2woeJkGVqb0Qcj9O6eQJpq-9EXq2zx-BIuVl7dNSfO-DywJNRdLlRn4A3zUISokjMA3Qi_JO-i_KbsY_u_1ndts_NAKszrMhHhi-3EVvK7YmcNq0wAYdj-NvXclMaEM/s1600/hazel+and+katie+KIWI.jpg" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: Well for the readers at home and my
editor I’m going to need you to try to describe it. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: It’s primal. I feel connected to other
women who are moms even if I don’t know them. I’m not kidding when I say that I
see a woman on the sidewalk pushing a baby in her pram and think you go girl. I
don’t know how long it took you to get out of the house today, but you did it
and you’re a rockstar just for doing what you do. With that being said, if I
was to meet said woman and find out we had way different parental values or style I probably wouldn't be inviting her over to drink box wine with me, if you know what I'm saying. This
parenting stuff is weird. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmIpplrNXfNA2GoDpXMhdAqhDTBNhNkmp3SZuy0h3ELspECLJ54AlJcaUOB4KciWEDUQm7ClaqFY8YVL522IQ88CE6oGgwJNLBIRehTTadvVoSBmQfd5brU7Q30yEKYPIO9ho_te__Om1/s1600/Hazel+naked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmIpplrNXfNA2GoDpXMhdAqhDTBNhNkmp3SZuy0h3ELspECLJ54AlJcaUOB4KciWEDUQm7ClaqFY8YVL522IQ88CE6oGgwJNLBIRehTTadvVoSBmQfd5brU7Q30yEKYPIO9ho_te__Om1/s1600/Hazel+naked.jpg" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: And boring. Why are new Moms soooo
boring? </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: Oh I wish I could disagree with you, but
that is often the case. Now that I’ve been through it I think I understand why.
Having a baby does make you fall in love so there is that
aspect of, “BUT DON”T YOU UNDERSTAND I HAVE A BABY!!” Look at my BABY!!!. Baby
baby baby. </span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VXn6UUEW_HD8bhz3uIxBf76vZluO4zIfGs_hyphenhyphenNF9kVbj48OvGTj5rxaHBCCSDRZbbJ7Selc88OaQz2pAd-kTC5mOTv_KWWiWyw60o6-QAQYcE_JhbElYoSIgz_YIT9vBq1zgL2r2_xs5/s1600/Hazel+sunnies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VXn6UUEW_HD8bhz3uIxBf76vZluO4zIfGs_hyphenhyphenNF9kVbj48OvGTj5rxaHBCCSDRZbbJ7Selc88OaQz2pAd-kTC5mOTv_KWWiWyw60o6-QAQYcE_JhbElYoSIgz_YIT9vBq1zgL2r2_xs5/s1600/Hazel+sunnies.jpg" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And then due to babies high level of need,
whether you like it or not they become your sole focus because they are
depending on you for everything. I know it's obvious, but it's worth remembering.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTh7QzpZhTPhLPhqqlicJHb90nY9HIaTxi0SKFjdBEVA5lHGyCA1Pf1eZ-foHuvI2kEDZCag2JhekryKpnSQxAi3qBgVOBUgqJbQ4u_BDHMN8VvxPI_XIoogbi4cLrl13rWWBvPMx_BEY/s1600/DSC00253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTh7QzpZhTPhLPhqqlicJHb90nY9HIaTxi0SKFjdBEVA5lHGyCA1Pf1eZ-foHuvI2kEDZCag2JhekryKpnSQxAi3qBgVOBUgqJbQ4u_BDHMN8VvxPI_XIoogbi4cLrl13rWWBvPMx_BEY/s1600/DSC00253.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also, you are just so freaking tired because
you are not sleeping. My mind literally rejected anything above 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup>
grade reading level. I wanted to want to care about world news and other
people’s lives, but it was hard to. I was so exhausted that even though the
adrenaline carries you, you are still are only barely functioning. It takes effort to be
interesting and fun and if all energy goes towards the baby, well guess what? You
aren’t going to be topping anybody’s list of who to bring to the opening of that art gallery, that turns into a juice bar, that turns into a an underground club, that was just a experiential art exhibit all along. Lucky for me my social life is practically non existent so it wasn't much of an adjustment.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTrzHPfEJxfBq92Yq9Mip0S5wDQewva1v6wi25swJS2iFZbpQ_CjcthgQzobl2zDEjZwX0so9mz5gejk9pIwCgl0-MEzFAuhDT5qTh0IWijwOuMTNL36xpGlBXVbQnC-EbE0YIFeDTYI_/s1600/Hazel+winter+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTrzHPfEJxfBq92Yq9Mip0S5wDQewva1v6wi25swJS2iFZbpQ_CjcthgQzobl2zDEjZwX0so9mz5gejk9pIwCgl0-MEzFAuhDT5qTh0IWijwOuMTNL36xpGlBXVbQnC-EbE0YIFeDTYI_/s1600/Hazel+winter+hat.jpg" height="320" width="234" /></a></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: Speaking of adjustments, what do you think has been the hardest thing to adjust to? </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: I think the 24-7ness of it. I mean the day in day out stuff is harder with a baby no doubt, but to me it's all doable. The part that takes getting use to is how it doesn't really ever stop.</span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For example, I'll do something with Hazel that I think is engaging and interactive, like some silly game that involves building towers out of pillows and hiding under sheets. And it is fun. She's laughing, I'm laughing, all is merry and bright and then I'm like ok that was great I'm over it. I'm exhausted from fake falling into this pile 100 times and I would like to just sit here for a few minutes. We did do that for at least an hour right, look at the clock. nope. 18 minutes. 2 more minutes and I could have counted it as my cardio for the day. It goes without saying it's absolutely worth it just takes some getting use to.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunVgtX-aSi8w6qWojZzbLpJfmFjExquhSvBxR06e-cPNu0UftU10KEIEmMBVM7XvZDtjtB75XpajsXthFV8A5baV-jrxzK_5KuiMt4PFmCc6pnDP_BiZh_gNNKORxPwqgOxR7ofQf4hjO/s1600/Hazel+playground+thighs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunVgtX-aSi8w6qWojZzbLpJfmFjExquhSvBxR06e-cPNu0UftU10KEIEmMBVM7XvZDtjtB75XpajsXthFV8A5baV-jrxzK_5KuiMt4PFmCc6pnDP_BiZh_gNNKORxPwqgOxR7ofQf4hjO/s1600/Hazel+playground+thighs.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: What has been most surprising about motherhood?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: How much it changes your perspective, your relationship, and your boobs. Not necessarily in that order. Also, how much fun it can be. Oh, and I didn't realize how much it would make me miss and appreciate my own mom.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwDH-RrbYIoEelBreYfj0_sjKUJC1YuXvAx7zJmBwXr7qftoCBYrFITcEL91qEbCg35kSBItIoHRIirG2pWEpo6loUVpxsZSX5DjccYSF3hUYtFFhX8bjq1uwUIOdyqt5yppRgHl4qJU3/s1600/Hazel+rattle+pram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwDH-RrbYIoEelBreYfj0_sjKUJC1YuXvAx7zJmBwXr7qftoCBYrFITcEL91qEbCg35kSBItIoHRIirG2pWEpo6loUVpxsZSX5DjccYSF3hUYtFFhX8bjq1uwUIOdyqt5yppRgHl4qJU3/s1600/Hazel+rattle+pram.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: What are some of your favorite memories of the first year?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: Definitely all the milestones - rolling over, crawling, her first steps, and meeting family and friends for the first time, but then there is just so much humor in parenting. The time we went to see Adam at work and she managed to do a poo waterfall out of her pants onto the carpet as we talked to one of his coworkers. The time my midwife came to do a house visit and she weighed Hazel is a flour sack. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaP-SQXNEhQeNRjUFLNPmdi0JUf16ziZG3SV_81Py_YoeVy1BxoM3Zc_BBDtvn17j1X3__vtKZ5h0HzZLKGe0ZJ9G5KnUwctpohQ5bbXptKCO5MbHEwypLtAbbr9AieslhLK3fzgVJcwm6/s1600/hazel+weigh2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaP-SQXNEhQeNRjUFLNPmdi0JUf16ziZG3SV_81Py_YoeVy1BxoM3Zc_BBDtvn17j1X3__vtKZ5h0HzZLKGe0ZJ9G5KnUwctpohQ5bbXptKCO5MbHEwypLtAbbr9AieslhLK3fzgVJcwm6/s1600/hazel+weigh2.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And the number of times I will see something brown in our home and wonder if it is poo or chocolate. I wish I was kidding. I mean I eat a lot of chocolate and Hazel does a lot of poos.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It's fun to think back to the first time we took Hazel on a plane. I don't think I even realized then how much we would travel with her, but she has been amazing. Travel is such a big part of our lives that it was such a relief to know she could fit right into the mix. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSo7zS90A8_u2K-n__T3kpp7PAY2NK90nflX_4G7qJNvKbggx3-Mb24RJ1AGfcwq1F87RfHwmA9knovsBwADPfycFJJei1Mf91jISUPfydJfHt9WJ3hqUi7iPDBgN-E1ejdzVA2b_I_Dcg/s1600/Hazel+Daddy+dancing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSo7zS90A8_u2K-n__T3kpp7PAY2NK90nflX_4G7qJNvKbggx3-Mb24RJ1AGfcwq1F87RfHwmA9knovsBwADPfycFJJei1Mf91jISUPfydJfHt9WJ3hqUi7iPDBgN-E1ejdzVA2b_I_Dcg/s1600/Hazel+Daddy+dancing.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Other happy memories are just simple stuff - Adam and her in the pool in swim class, days at the beach, seeing her with my niece and nephews, discovering what foods she likes, pretty much anything that makes her laugh, and lots of other stuff that I can assure you would only be interesting and amusing to myself and Adam. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ut-4tFOs5xODwtCDAv-m5C2_s65DwmA2w1RM247qjPdDa4uHJFv7JfCY-pSm-8h84FmyxXYopbbs1yirr6vCKMKhV3TBc5vtr-SyNWLmfVzPByQAf_evZxpOLCSOU0xkxGJeHcnrMhz1/s1600/Hazel+swim+class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ut-4tFOs5xODwtCDAv-m5C2_s65DwmA2w1RM247qjPdDa4uHJFv7JfCY-pSm-8h84FmyxXYopbbs1yirr6vCKMKhV3TBc5vtr-SyNWLmfVzPByQAf_evZxpOLCSOU0xkxGJeHcnrMhz1/s1600/Hazel+swim+class.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: What do you think you are most proud of so far being a Mom?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: Probably that when Hazel is older I can look her in the eye and tell her I never #hashtagged anything. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2-BGik_9MY9d5qGZLkGH2YxNaCjT4JWVsG6PrclfcMCM6NhvljBDFt5FZpYjP0TEUiAVHYjnBPQYErUMsBk31MTu2UQ82eXfDe0CXIFI5QvrSbQjoO6pHF_dkIV-vAw4f3M0AFOGHKFB/s1600/Hazel+jumping+beans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2-BGik_9MY9d5qGZLkGH2YxNaCjT4JWVsG6PrclfcMCM6NhvljBDFt5FZpYjP0TEUiAVHYjnBPQYErUMsBk31MTu2UQ82eXfDe0CXIFI5QvrSbQjoO6pHF_dkIV-vAw4f3M0AFOGHKFB/s1600/Hazel+jumping+beans.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: How do you find staying home? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: I never pictured myself being a stay at home mom, but here I am and more days than not I really enjoy it. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It's kind of like being shot in the heart a hundred times a day with a hundred little arrows that cause your heart to burst with joy, while at the same time being hooked up to a machine that slowly drains all your energy, mental acuity, and standards for what a clean shirt really is. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGrdZ4x1PFT7CNrMdq5_S405O5wtRjEgcr8ABcYdvKs9LzwqyIV-_HL-vVstmTuN_0hKBgkRSZ8YixCXislqhiK0TOnQzjWJASm2QYStv5QzUSrteYvW29ibsKxTG3h1OSBPstVDEjBZY/s1600/Hazel+reading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGrdZ4x1PFT7CNrMdq5_S405O5wtRjEgcr8ABcYdvKs9LzwqyIV-_HL-vVstmTuN_0hKBgkRSZ8YixCXislqhiK0TOnQzjWJASm2QYStv5QzUSrteYvW29ibsKxTG3h1OSBPstVDEjBZY/s1600/Hazel+reading.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: Will there be a Real Housewives of Auckland and will you be in it? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: I'd have to say no to that, but if there was I'd watch it! Down the road, I'd love to go back to practicing therapy. I do miss it, but I feel fortunate that for the time being I get to be home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwjqy4VLgARqkCJPdOnNSaDkxrNR75du7vM0WizwQOzORTGF6e237PR3yf3qQUuVT6tyVu96Hi-TD8b_TsBRNBLN1eNmpWCtXcHP5iiLR2qyFrUri8YAipGkRxbuZWmxhp1ccxI4BER3P/s1600/Hazel+Belamonte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwjqy4VLgARqkCJPdOnNSaDkxrNR75du7vM0WizwQOzORTGF6e237PR3yf3qQUuVT6tyVu96Hi-TD8b_TsBRNBLN1eNmpWCtXcHP5iiLR2qyFrUri8YAipGkRxbuZWmxhp1ccxI4BER3P/s1600/Hazel+Belamonte.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: How do you think being a mother in New Zealand is different then being a mother in the US?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>KW</strong>: Probably in lots of ways and many that I don't even realize. I know the midwife model they use here is much different then the typical patient/doctor experience in the US. I was allowed to go 2 weeks past my due date, which I'm almost positive wouldn't have happened if I was at home. The fact that my midwife did home visits until Hazel was 6 weeks old was amazing. I talked on an earlier post about Warkworth Birth Centre and what a wonderful experience that was. Basically, hours after I delivered in a hospital I was in the car heading to a "house" in the country where I spent 4 days with round the clock care learning how to breastfeed, bathe, and care for my child all in the comfort of a private room with all meals provided. And it was all free. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglgRVk42mdWRapjlbbtTcJyGiVnvg6VvRL_DxhvZccxJB24iwfNQ55JYEMGHR4sCyDPjxZuMdR8t6WkxXhw1e1NEz-CZyp44K49veXkNh8wm61bUwp5hVY0munRM1IrinAAiT7TOAQ7yJZ/s1600/Hazel+Wonderwoman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglgRVk42mdWRapjlbbtTcJyGiVnvg6VvRL_DxhvZccxJB24iwfNQ55JYEMGHR4sCyDPjxZuMdR8t6WkxXhw1e1NEz-CZyp44K49veXkNh8wm61bUwp5hVY0munRM1IrinAAiT7TOAQ7yJZ/s1600/Hazel+Wonderwoman.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In fact, healthcare is free for the first 5 years of a child's life. Women get a year maternity leave and your place of work has to keep your job for a year and then you can tell them if you will be returning or not. Most everyone is set up with a "coffee group," a group of women all having babies at the same time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My group has met every week since the babies were born, or bubbas they are often called here. Our coffee group also has a private facebook group where we can go and ask each other questions, offer support, share everything from a baby clothing sale to a babysitter. It has been an incredible resource. There is also Plunket which I have mentioned before that offers all sorts of resources, from car seat rental and installations to a family centers where you can get help on nursing or sleep issues, even taking a nap of your own. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are other things like toy libraries and toy vans that drive around in the summer and set up at local parks that I'm pretty stoked to have at my fingertips. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAhm926YRQEsVJous8esj1X8f4gKl0esMghug3fkcrrHplLWscbzUD76b7cNCgHpcfEx-NTB2blkScMcnDPQTyaP8582DizyrBIgtUde7FVQPgQVut9H_TBrW5CqougRWQz9tlitqZz1fc/s1600/Hazel+toy+van.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAhm926YRQEsVJous8esj1X8f4gKl0esMghug3fkcrrHplLWscbzUD76b7cNCgHpcfEx-NTB2blkScMcnDPQTyaP8582DizyrBIgtUde7FVQPgQVut9H_TBrW5CqougRWQz9tlitqZz1fc/s1600/Hazel+toy+van.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Many places from cafes to the bank to wineries often have toy boxes in them for the children to entertain themselves. Clearly, New Zealand is family friendly, which is definitely something to get excited about.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxDpHlIjJAMsTfKNByupp-iFgNaVMDl7y1CEc-tz6ONwbW1Q8cwsVH40ZLiYpPgxEgbiZW4J9NREKkaWIGwu7DslCnTJ5zxzaxs0u6XwtjLe3-SHzeX4mK5KMv2zpKPtHObGleVuthEdQt/s1600/Hazel+santa+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxDpHlIjJAMsTfKNByupp-iFgNaVMDl7y1CEc-tz6ONwbW1Q8cwsVH40ZLiYpPgxEgbiZW4J9NREKkaWIGwu7DslCnTJ5zxzaxs0u6XwtjLe3-SHzeX4mK5KMv2zpKPtHObGleVuthEdQt/s1600/Hazel+santa+hat.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PJ</strong>: Sounds like it. Well that's all the time we have for today. I think I'll stick to just having my pet bird for the time being but if I ever decide to have a kid I'll look you up.</span><span lang="EN-NZ"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Oh and btw, you have something brown on your shirt. Just thought you should know.</span></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-NZ" style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRux4jDyAzrXm1KqZQ-NvVTZnSHeD1eF9zMCCHoHcJhTKggls-wEQJ-SMCQ9U0mCR7Uul0g5g7xMo6SR2jM1LGnMeBe5TEkgU8f9gfhyphenhyphenuzpg-oG3IEfCCN9Mm-NTIR-ILzYl1qXD1qcQB/s1600/AKV_5905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRux4jDyAzrXm1KqZQ-NvVTZnSHeD1eF9zMCCHoHcJhTKggls-wEQJ-SMCQ9U0mCR7Uul0g5g7xMo6SR2jM1LGnMeBe5TEkgU8f9gfhyphenhyphenuzpg-oG3IEfCCN9Mm-NTIR-ILzYl1qXD1qcQB/s1600/AKV_5905.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Top and bottom photos by AK Vogel</div>
</div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-84129170910596806812014-01-21T23:49:00.000-08:002014-01-21T23:49:28.751-08:00Won't you take me to Arrowtown?The most exciting Christmas present I got arrived on December 27th and came direct from San Francisco. Oh happy day to have Mal and Johnny here. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxAknb6ov_XQkfj0ryGOcXQYCf743zPBFNWBcTOdbZCp_RExCF8s3qV7AeFKSKLJ_tLZOcX2xo0S_2-MEjv9CK6dG0sH82zwlK6Pltlq9NH7vEfnbdKQJUmetmv4qK9g9dlkzNYnKuBNs/s1600/Mallary+Katie+Possum+Ladder.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxAknb6ov_XQkfj0ryGOcXQYCf743zPBFNWBcTOdbZCp_RExCF8s3qV7AeFKSKLJ_tLZOcX2xo0S_2-MEjv9CK6dG0sH82zwlK6Pltlq9NH7vEfnbdKQJUmetmv4qK9g9dlkzNYnKuBNs/s1600/Mallary+Katie+Possum+Ladder.jpeg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We spent their first few days bumming around Auckland and it's surrounding areas. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47FN6p03SvQFLFcRfUlU2kj-DSwVzgPbvCaJjHT9Dc-Oo3n_8p47993ZNmwcZhU6TV-mtbFM0ZdR8Ms1nceDDaOg2f-WtCpsTpFV9Tl7mzy-0lZ3_i-mJPPsdQoFf7AwIsJsTJAOApxoA/s1600/Mal+Jw+hazel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47FN6p03SvQFLFcRfUlU2kj-DSwVzgPbvCaJjHT9Dc-Oo3n_8p47993ZNmwcZhU6TV-mtbFM0ZdR8Ms1nceDDaOg2f-WtCpsTpFV9Tl7mzy-0lZ3_i-mJPPsdQoFf7AwIsJsTJAOApxoA/s1600/Mal+Jw+hazel.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
A trip to the Matakana Farmers Market, a hike (tramp) at Tawharanui Regional Park, dinner in the city, and the much loved Sunday long lunch at Poderi Crisci on Waiheke Island. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRW9r0rKK14UkGqChZL5Bk9arwOtAiF3MboDZ59_aBNUJm9l6varruFusX3ZasEPHZCKoG_-p3HHwQIQ7E7Wbrp8H5jD_8eqXkOxyh6LmxWSkN149GPuxJVCf27ZcYE2-dAzkmfIZYcu6/s1600/Mallary+Katie+waiheke.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzRW9r0rKK14UkGqChZL5Bk9arwOtAiF3MboDZ59_aBNUJm9l6varruFusX3ZasEPHZCKoG_-p3HHwQIQ7E7Wbrp8H5jD_8eqXkOxyh6LmxWSkN149GPuxJVCf27ZcYE2-dAzkmfIZYcu6/s1600/Mallary+Katie+waiheke.JPG" height="291" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The Sunday long lunch evokes this kind of feeling - <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNpXgp9FEqPwuvewxzR0iUAe1eKnj5CqUEB6A0CxsI-m8LWIAvOmkweHAbALaXCQOGyMDFciOaFJjYxosrvAQslWvZDpCe1tWc9m53shAd17E0e7Z5IzNBKXAtWjTqilNt5OEFP20FAqdd/s1600/Mallary+swinging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNpXgp9FEqPwuvewxzR0iUAe1eKnj5CqUEB6A0CxsI-m8LWIAvOmkweHAbALaXCQOGyMDFciOaFJjYxosrvAQslWvZDpCe1tWc9m53shAd17E0e7Z5IzNBKXAtWjTqilNt5OEFP20FAqdd/s1600/Mallary+swinging.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
After some time in Auckland with us they headed to the South Island to do some exploring on their own. We met up with them at the end of the week in Queenstown on Hazel's birthday. That's right, she is no longer zero. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfG0pYFab47oSFlSDbcDGcA2t64cXQ-nB_BQIjDLKjn8PwFC5b_YY4wK5x_kxNUFzRU7rxwM2Z_U8O8EyBinAiAsGypUz6TBLZZxlXd-18aibfFzVqEsoqQ-Q_67PYKEbVlckarHGwUcbw/s1600/Hazel+1st+Birthday.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></div>
<br />
And to no one's surprise she likes cake.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwFyJSrHzYOUOjKPI07xEtnnZgpIYPc7k5BtFWD9vtDbMDGcqVYjSVglGFdd9mK4cMwzqxl_oIkKY41G7jWquybp8l01-3obFNKP0g2NfqPSoeD3rhlzZItzbBPbHOYcKDiy0w0C0F5tK/s1600/Hazel+Cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwFyJSrHzYOUOjKPI07xEtnnZgpIYPc7k5BtFWD9vtDbMDGcqVYjSVglGFdd9mK4cMwzqxl_oIkKY41G7jWquybp8l01-3obFNKP0g2NfqPSoeD3rhlzZItzbBPbHOYcKDiy0w0C0F5tK/s1600/Hazel+Cake.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The day before we left though, we got to go to the ASB Classic tennis tournament and see Venus Williams play against Ana Ivanovic in the final. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ope7zEn9ZUwh0C4wepkujx77HpR7w3Ar1rURL0cyta4SQV7fiN4qlRA5a1rDObeOyt6kCROPrPelpFOqXApuiUD3pyc9QGnlbJR1dZG91rBwmj910YsM5nN43sFFMo1liqWOh8eGYtBR/s1600/Tennis+Ana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ope7zEn9ZUwh0C4wepkujx77HpR7w3Ar1rURL0cyta4SQV7fiN4qlRA5a1rDObeOyt6kCROPrPelpFOqXApuiUD3pyc9QGnlbJR1dZG91rBwmj910YsM5nN43sFFMo1liqWOh8eGYtBR/s1600/Tennis+Ana.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
This also goes into the corporate perk category. It was incredible to be that close, the stadium was so small there wasn't a bad seat in the house. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_9RvAunSlbAIKzHsWUIyK5m-NVr6YwA-yQgIIhdoPa7gBzuG_sezCkqAcF2mK9FaWIiRiaiQKMWD-0CMpPOB-3J_CrEqsrKguXoEnR9v56PerGi_dMqqsL2r4_elqwEXA_eFPCn7VASU/s1600/Tennis+Venus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_9RvAunSlbAIKzHsWUIyK5m-NVr6YwA-yQgIIhdoPa7gBzuG_sezCkqAcF2mK9FaWIiRiaiQKMWD-0CMpPOB-3J_CrEqsrKguXoEnR9v56PerGi_dMqqsL2r4_elqwEXA_eFPCn7VASU/s1600/Tennis+Venus.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It was an exciting match and Ana took the trophy... but back to our trip and reuniting with the Walkers. We flew into Queenstown, but stayed in a bach in Arrowtown, 20 mins outside of town. Such a neat property and in a gorgeous setting. We had been before, but it was nice to return.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiDw9syn45tjxZ3fqs4g7c6MLr9sijKP1gDoADQ03Wj8zmX9-TGvu41Anx57ieMNxKkPT0VtfZp22F9nUfiJ2pNjTcabapliarFMcBnpDhDZ6H2hy2nI8R-qeYGN_WHHSU5uBxVAgzTG0/s1600/Arrowtown+bach+view.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiDw9syn45tjxZ3fqs4g7c6MLr9sijKP1gDoADQ03Wj8zmX9-TGvu41Anx57ieMNxKkPT0VtfZp22F9nUfiJ2pNjTcabapliarFMcBnpDhDZ6H2hy2nI8R-qeYGN_WHHSU5uBxVAgzTG0/s1600/Arrowtown+bach+view.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Hazel liked it too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9DiH0zJuRzdJBQmh4EfbyG068axsbzREjKRyBR8ngu3FpCL9jyIy2qFMH20mGZ6BrhfCqMx80LBawgw6cwc-3cYo5vE3wuVr5xHTqYGA4nnMgDq6E9YEgbayyCjDWvr6r0R7yM72wotf/s1600/Hazel+Arrowtown.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9DiH0zJuRzdJBQmh4EfbyG068axsbzREjKRyBR8ngu3FpCL9jyIy2qFMH20mGZ6BrhfCqMx80LBawgw6cwc-3cYo5vE3wuVr5xHTqYGA4nnMgDq6E9YEgbayyCjDWvr6r0R7yM72wotf/s1600/Hazel+Arrowtown.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We had a great time exploring Central Otago and the Lake Hayes region. Nothing says Happy Birthday baby like a trip to the wineries. So off we went. Some of the stops we made were Chard Farm, Peregrine, and Mt. Difficulty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitA1qP7GlIqUW-UJ36yEs_yXq9IE-_rH5_cVO1QIh6-pN9LtKxKPMFCWb9G9BbNw06SuioYK6ChuJ10bDAHwLp1cKiP3-IXQyAuoO-xppscBWQUt4AGU1eGwuikMCEVPdZpY_PnxtcbjoB/s1600/Mt.Difficulty.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitA1qP7GlIqUW-UJ36yEs_yXq9IE-_rH5_cVO1QIh6-pN9LtKxKPMFCWb9G9BbNw06SuioYK6ChuJ10bDAHwLp1cKiP3-IXQyAuoO-xppscBWQUt4AGU1eGwuikMCEVPdZpY_PnxtcbjoB/s1600/Mt.Difficulty.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Not too shabby Mt. Difficulty, not too shabby at all. NZ is so freaking kid friendly that they have toy boxes in all the tasting rooms, or cellar doors as they are called here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OQdhmvV1yGJZLyB3qzznz1BimQASjJpvY2BBY8Ll6uVKDqaZ9ajqsmG0ssKmD8ZGYjHTDOZVQLukkUPpp503IDytJC5AxlxghTsnuGYy-IU3VtbeWGQA2lGc1SXAqb5xuhLgJghsz1bk/s1600/Hazel+winery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OQdhmvV1yGJZLyB3qzznz1BimQASjJpvY2BBY8Ll6uVKDqaZ9ajqsmG0ssKmD8ZGYjHTDOZVQLukkUPpp503IDytJC5AxlxghTsnuGYy-IU3VtbeWGQA2lGc1SXAqb5xuhLgJghsz1bk/s1600/Hazel+winery.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I mean I still can't believe Hazel is 1. Gulp. Tear. More on that another time. Perhaps I'll do a special motherhood edition so people can find out more about things like how to read the same book a gazillion times and feign shock at the end or learn about the copious amounts of different poo styles out there these days. <br />
<br />
Anyway, seeing as the 1st birthday is really about the parents celebrating their first year of survival I carried on like it was my day special day. I mean what one -year-old wouldn't want to watch their parents go wine tasting and stand in line at Fergburger? Don't tell me that that high five I gave you after you first started walking didn't count as a party.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jbW1eFFiQvD5nbFe2h29QPVCZbPz6oqGaJ5jslzMJF0-nZ9vy4jp4iSoEDBFqgkeJfua2T5TCxvHePnXcd8pNTsyFEmUIqC2_l4WdLU64jYbRjwC-ACrfYuK-1lmGQjc_pSuP2TkTo_b/s1600/Hazel+walking.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jbW1eFFiQvD5nbFe2h29QPVCZbPz6oqGaJ5jslzMJF0-nZ9vy4jp4iSoEDBFqgkeJfua2T5TCxvHePnXcd8pNTsyFEmUIqC2_l4WdLU64jYbRjwC-ACrfYuK-1lmGQjc_pSuP2TkTo_b/s1600/Hazel+walking.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So much good food and wine down this way. We had an amazing meal at Saffron one night and the chocolate croissants from Bonjour are not to be missed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOB3_i05spiZTqiyZv5JwO0RB8qH4L5LMC102jJ2tkYFC2fwkfawHN2hMQIURxikI7iyDBIvh5uhKbrZQ21Hzom4dcIRbPzVZEoCE3CHUp7k8L5qCckZS7Pj_yAPqn__I1b1g0VSaR6o_/s1600/saffron-restaurant-arrowtown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOB3_i05spiZTqiyZv5JwO0RB8qH4L5LMC102jJ2tkYFC2fwkfawHN2hMQIURxikI7iyDBIvh5uhKbrZQ21Hzom4dcIRbPzVZEoCE3CHUp7k8L5qCckZS7Pj_yAPqn__I1b1g0VSaR6o_/s1600/saffron-restaurant-arrowtown.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It was pretty sweet because the lady who owned the bach, her daughter babysat for us one night at the steep rate of $7 an hour. My standards for babysitting are this: keep alive. Mission accomplished.<br />
<br />
One of the most scenic places we went to was Rippon Vineyard on Lake Wanaka. I thought the wine was only meh, but who cares look at the setting. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1aM6MRBbV2TU24I4bDDFCoAKUx9_9kylGVpL5D6QW7qE0zF3l-3rfmtV4You8JN6TtE1Eb_lcN8vjH7uNursGPyGeIXJfs8DaRgtAWmi7rLDUYyHyqfd9rDgM3YDjmaHzBP0PhFrgBIr/s1600/Hazel+Lake+Wanaka+.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1aM6MRBbV2TU24I4bDDFCoAKUx9_9kylGVpL5D6QW7qE0zF3l-3rfmtV4You8JN6TtE1Eb_lcN8vjH7uNursGPyGeIXJfs8DaRgtAWmi7rLDUYyHyqfd9rDgM3YDjmaHzBP0PhFrgBIr/s1600/Hazel+Lake+Wanaka+.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The last day it rained so the owners of the place we were staying took us on an impromptu farm tour on some property they owned down the road, which was pretty cool. One thing I learned: there is a big export business in NZ in the form of velvet antlers. Velvet antlers, named so because of the stage when the male antlers are covered in soft fuzz.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZMsD1QPqmHxk1vczBHmeV6PlB6W8ssCI3aIF4NQDSWeqDHpMc29BXK7E4X2NI63C9wi4SLw0SsdJyx5ZexOvLb6UMkIwH4v8DZVT9YKCmN9fcEFUPM1PRx0JK8zBkdmgrFEv5ev_lQ3a/s1600/Velvet+Antler.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZMsD1QPqmHxk1vczBHmeV6PlB6W8ssCI3aIF4NQDSWeqDHpMc29BXK7E4X2NI63C9wi4SLw0SsdJyx5ZexOvLb6UMkIwH4v8DZVT9YKCmN9fcEFUPM1PRx0JK8zBkdmgrFEv5ev_lQ3a/s1600/Velvet+Antler.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I had never heard of them, but apparently Asian people have. These are used in traditional Chinese medicine and in the West as dietary supplements. Huh, who knew?<br />
<br />
And as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end so we had to say goodbye to our bosom buddies. On their last day, Adam was back at work, but Mal and Johnny and I went Stand Up Paddle Boarding. I have literally been wanting to try it since I moved here and since last summer I was with child I decided this summer without child was the time. Did I get up? yes. Did I fall down? yes. Would I do it again? yes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3R57jaTJxqqE8yW1J5pnGfuDs2ihKGWgOTANDoyMGzJ6xvfKc7CPlCK53hKbC8VNFdULEcKr8k-A0P1m0gkDJOtIzZ4IVExwptNoiYN-j6iDCmnoEzOtYjU3uGHDBDjyHIBM4XPGos-tu/s1600/SUP.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3R57jaTJxqqE8yW1J5pnGfuDs2ihKGWgOTANDoyMGzJ6xvfKc7CPlCK53hKbC8VNFdULEcKr8k-A0P1m0gkDJOtIzZ4IVExwptNoiYN-j6iDCmnoEzOtYjU3uGHDBDjyHIBM4XPGos-tu/s1600/SUP.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a> </div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-57734474378727955292014-01-20T00:32:00.000-08:002014-01-20T00:32:59.304-08:00Rocking Out in MelbourneLiterally the day Chris flew out, we flew to Melbourne. While in the airport by the way, I realized this was Hazel's 3rd international flight before the age of 1. Ay-yi-yi. Yes, despite what they teach in school Australia is a separate country from New Zealand.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2fEtVrT6Lq3egVk73_h4afcPmBZ3TXKn68vx_Ep_GkNh6898mRJ1_NboVzFEi755PCpUk0zrm0A0DTT6caLVFb49Zd79fzalOHrlCIHan4y6ROkyZclFMHrsiRaFQqT9tHPxAA5ztnac/s1600/AKL+MEL.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2fEtVrT6Lq3egVk73_h4afcPmBZ3TXKn68vx_Ep_GkNh6898mRJ1_NboVzFEi755PCpUk0zrm0A0DTT6caLVFb49Zd79fzalOHrlCIHan4y6ROkyZclFMHrsiRaFQqT9tHPxAA5ztnac/s1600/AKL+MEL.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Normally I wouldn't schedule back to back trips like this, but it's not every day that you get an opportunity to fly to Australia to see Bon Jovi. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-v99ad-hKA9z4imbJHzuXrK1P5HY4IA4SdO3jXTvqojFhbLoUl6o38R5xaePOdfItwA7ugPEF3fg9Cdc-UzgfUKRmxxPcvSCnM2J1EDyw4QOJDQZUBEHZQSjyhLgYf5lkzyWdF2ZcKe5/s1600/Bon+Jovi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-v99ad-hKA9z4imbJHzuXrK1P5HY4IA4SdO3jXTvqojFhbLoUl6o38R5xaePOdfItwA7ugPEF3fg9Cdc-UzgfUKRmxxPcvSCnM2J1EDyw4QOJDQZUBEHZQSjyhLgYf5lkzyWdF2ZcKe5/s1600/Bon+Jovi.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Yes Bon Jovi. It's so random and yet so something we couldn't pass up. These are the perks of being married to someone in the corporate sector. In my last job in San Francisco, the kind where you actually got paid in money, not giggles and hope, I couldn't even get an office. I did however learn to pop lock and drop it and do therapy in hallways and stairwells. Talk about livin' on a prayer. <br />
<br />
But I digress, back to the good life. So yes, because of Adam we got to go rock out in Melbourne. Luckily we had a dress rehearsal a few weeks prior.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYB9dyyXZ7EszJoMEY07ftTNYf2wo0ZI0U2-feO7MLQoEJHWRc2JS92e3gFp7bgR8k-C7cNcXZ3e5wGlZycwiO7Dp2kimqLKOvdcQf1cZEqG9qf3n0GgIr0QfEXa7Z6Dprzkkgr77p-c9s/s1600/Rock+of+Ages+costume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYB9dyyXZ7EszJoMEY07ftTNYf2wo0ZI0U2-feO7MLQoEJHWRc2JS92e3gFp7bgR8k-C7cNcXZ3e5wGlZycwiO7Dp2kimqLKOvdcQf1cZEqG9qf3n0GgIr0QfEXa7Z6Dprzkkgr77p-c9s/s1600/Rock+of+Ages+costume.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Despite looking this good we did not wear the above outfits to the show. We did wear them to a Rock of Ages costume birthday party. This was back in November so Adam was also doing Movember at the time. Don't hate on me ladies that my man looked that good. Btw, did you know Movember started in Australia? Tons of people do it on this side of the world, to actually raise money and awareness for men's health issues not just to be ironic. <br />
<br />
Melbourne is a fantastic city. You can walk everywhere, they have a great food scene, and lots going on. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwuHf6tWDk60I1fytcvz2kYRqRFtQpAJ4MFJFbe6_Io5I0iKeYZ2y6t1MbfgNeneCWtj_av-ypapdZdWKSsnSR9vF7-JCqu5PIciCiMVkyEBsvLFNYm8cQT-V0YCCcjudbiOw4PRG2RG8/s1600/Hazel+Melbourne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwuHf6tWDk60I1fytcvz2kYRqRFtQpAJ4MFJFbe6_Io5I0iKeYZ2y6t1MbfgNeneCWtj_av-ypapdZdWKSsnSR9vF7-JCqu5PIciCiMVkyEBsvLFNYm8cQT-V0YCCcjudbiOw4PRG2RG8/s1600/Hazel+Melbourne.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We went last year, but I was happy to be back because my friend from college, Alicia, recently moved there. Score! It was so wonderful to catch up and fun to see some different neighborhoods and meet her wonderful hubby to be.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVe5u254sX7XLUAGgNv6gVyhL4IsVWqPw5BvIGyHHmDH_t4b-AA9SyAtI9vvwPB6c14Q0M-QI7WCstNPrvsiAuXPRy_zDZveZPPIKA1GbBNLmrroO8A_c0BGD17BXJgIhO6YtS8aGoRkN/s1600/Melbourne+Alica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVe5u254sX7XLUAGgNv6gVyhL4IsVWqPw5BvIGyHHmDH_t4b-AA9SyAtI9vvwPB6c14Q0M-QI7WCstNPrvsiAuXPRy_zDZveZPPIKA1GbBNLmrroO8A_c0BGD17BXJgIhO6YtS8aGoRkN/s1600/Melbourne+Alica.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Definitely one of those, if you had told me ten years ago that we would be here I never would have guessed it, moments.<br />
<br />
Our last day in town, Adam had to work and it was pouring rain, so Hazel and I headed to the Melbourne Museum. We caught a great exhibit called Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEcLt6KwgspnCC7ngv7GXJjUzO4JUbn_w7iydNcElPilFbe5eGN7VsapSbWLdlEvxTyYv3NS2tXe-eyQrf3GMTueJ2WrrjltjVpyE7HSSvFQeJcpbKh3-_n6wvYlYfb5HLQ6am8GHzQ8sz/s1600/Melbourne+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEcLt6KwgspnCC7ngv7GXJjUzO4JUbn_w7iydNcElPilFbe5eGN7VsapSbWLdlEvxTyYv3NS2tXe-eyQrf3GMTueJ2WrrjltjVpyE7HSSvFQeJcpbKh3-_n6wvYlYfb5HLQ6am8GHzQ8sz/s1600/Melbourne+007.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I simply made a deal with my little munchkin that if she was good while I was in the adult exhibit that I would be good while she was in the kids area. It worked. This time. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQlAcdoZFZB0HwI0BFN0AxItOKf2jrMHGLZPDDe8OIP3a3nJ5BeRjGwIT_JQJjssixuR0JYJRGQMElU2S786WJvPQTDb0V1kh6_V3SiQlYaSAVg2fL0-a7OBoDjhv6pTHdCxNEv1-c4nc/s1600/Hazel+Melbourne+Museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQlAcdoZFZB0HwI0BFN0AxItOKf2jrMHGLZPDDe8OIP3a3nJ5BeRjGwIT_JQJjssixuR0JYJRGQMElU2S786WJvPQTDb0V1kh6_V3SiQlYaSAVg2fL0-a7OBoDjhv6pTHdCxNEv1-c4nc/s1600/Hazel+Melbourne+Museum.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
After those two trips, we were happy to be back in Auckland for the holidays and get in some R & R before our next set of visitors. We did manage to squeeze in one day trip up to a friend's bach in Martins Bay. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbv864RwYWvRis9RPMGMGxHNn6kGxkK7sovApdlVUDRrzaRSCIGhenQfh5yKplCElZS6QwpFJxBTd7DJSaCXKiwxvGIV2pTcgIJM8sn9hlXyuObgO5PBpb9DY3pSUv_QuZRe6UFZCSp0W/s1600/Martins+Bay+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbv864RwYWvRis9RPMGMGxHNn6kGxkK7sovApdlVUDRrzaRSCIGhenQfh5yKplCElZS6QwpFJxBTd7DJSaCXKiwxvGIV2pTcgIJM8sn9hlXyuObgO5PBpb9DY3pSUv_QuZRe6UFZCSp0W/s1600/Martins+Bay+1.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
So fun to be on their boat out on the water and eat scallops fresh from the sea. We docked at the Kawau Island Historic Reserve, for an ice cream, but I'd love to go back another time and see the Mansion House and explore some more trails.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwPq5Yq5i5De_NEhAZFwBfuLHUzELoNcG6x4aX4u-6VEtuW_3sPCGpaP8Ihseufvby1y4yqTavw7LyveysBz1aIYnyvj-jUJ5TTuQ4Bxdslu3Wp-kxEpie19Gc4Ymw_deCMb_GTvf8R0H/s1600/Martins+Bay+2+-+Kawau+Island.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwPq5Yq5i5De_NEhAZFwBfuLHUzELoNcG6x4aX4u-6VEtuW_3sPCGpaP8Ihseufvby1y4yqTavw7LyveysBz1aIYnyvj-jUJ5TTuQ4Bxdslu3Wp-kxEpie19Gc4Ymw_deCMb_GTvf8R0H/s1600/Martins+Bay+2+-+Kawau+Island.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
The holidays are a hard time to be away from home, but the salt, sand, and sun help. And of course seeing Hazel experience so many firsts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
May this kind of Christmas joy be with you throughout the new year. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-iceZUaeo_ovVeY1Zxrzd7NWTitPGC3fykMKM2XRzP42XMGBj2zuHaot40KItrC0RVsqyNuTh8Zer6Y2T5AUVxdDJWs-RHXOSZYfMCcbK5rG2aUs_zCOBQ6iwLXukWJ4yyF16P2Wc2FT/s1600/Hazel+Santa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-iceZUaeo_ovVeY1Zxrzd7NWTitPGC3fykMKM2XRzP42XMGBj2zuHaot40KItrC0RVsqyNuTh8Zer6Y2T5AUVxdDJWs-RHXOSZYfMCcbK5rG2aUs_zCOBQ6iwLXukWJ4yyF16P2Wc2FT/s1600/Hazel+Santa.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-42898271652561342502014-01-18T17:42:00.001-08:002014-01-19T10:38:09.965-08:00Nelson, Cain, and Abel TasmanGreetings fair people of the land. The past couple months have been very busy here at the homestead, full of visitors and trips, and babies turning 1, namely ours.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2Iqbym6XuxGEghWpnTvh_InpRjHyf1yxUFR1Vusen1tesxWtxdYKsUBNWuvbwaAxFej_iGxfXkwEsBt3e2Vognw7MAvBcsGEbWP3FaZro1Bj4wv_jeTqBdkTzFkV2o-micWRn-oLpn31/s1600/Hazel+Tip+Top+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2Iqbym6XuxGEghWpnTvh_InpRjHyf1yxUFR1Vusen1tesxWtxdYKsUBNWuvbwaAxFej_iGxfXkwEsBt3e2Vognw7MAvBcsGEbWP3FaZro1Bj4wv_jeTqBdkTzFkV2o-micWRn-oLpn31/s1600/Hazel+Tip+Top+1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
In my mind, I was writing blog posts along the way, but it just didn't happen. I guess the same way that in my mind the inside of my car and my trash can don't look the same and my lounge clothes are more like Olivia Pope from Scandal and less like something Kimmy Gibbler from Full House might wear to a sleep over at DJ's place.<br />
<br />
But alas here we are, and no time like the present. In order to catch up to the present though, we gotta go back, like 2013 back. <br />
<br />
My brother Chris came to visit right after Thanksgiving. It was so great to have him here. As soon as he arrived, we hopped on a plane and headed to the South Island. I assured him it would be worth it. It was:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVmC2SDPcXzpTKjyIpe6AAg1ooElX8bG7Kf7fDuGVW5i0zP2WhtgV7s497eGSYS0VDM8GqE0-8_gFw0P-WmzcpPXni4M7zUGojXBvBw_EyvGTMbQwiPkoKe-6QFUbtfC4uTyJkWEsu-vn/s1600/Abel+Tasman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVmC2SDPcXzpTKjyIpe6AAg1ooElX8bG7Kf7fDuGVW5i0zP2WhtgV7s497eGSYS0VDM8GqE0-8_gFw0P-WmzcpPXni4M7zUGojXBvBw_EyvGTMbQwiPkoKe-6QFUbtfC4uTyJkWEsu-vn/s1600/Abel+Tasman.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Where in the world is Chris Cope? <br />
<br />
From the looks of that tiny spec - far, far from Crossfit Knoxville.<br />
<br />
The Nelson region is stunning. We hit up the Morrison Street Café in town, a great find and Chris got introduced to what was the first of many flat whites.<br />
<br />
Next was the famous Nelson market. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgszHhV-Or6aymxgplJdFSHcDfdU6_zOrLEhXFll2Swnt8xV0n1kZynOVpNd30bhUGan861lfA8j5x6H7TIQoWwcmAR_BQz4mxXfTcshl25-I4zvHjkcgwdFcxkGX7ZJfK5AkfoV8os7V5Q/s1600/Pic's+PB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgszHhV-Or6aymxgplJdFSHcDfdU6_zOrLEhXFll2Swnt8xV0n1kZynOVpNd30bhUGan861lfA8j5x6H7TIQoWwcmAR_BQz4mxXfTcshl25-I4zvHjkcgwdFcxkGX7ZJfK5AkfoV8os7V5Q/s1600/Pic's+PB.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Make no mistake about it this is not Adam and a random. This is Pic of Pic's peanut butter which makes our favorite pb. This guy told us he wants to dominate the world in the form of peanut butter with this stuff. It's that yummy, for his story click here (<a href="http://reallygood.co.nz/">http://reallygood.co.nz/</a>). This was basically like meeting the Mr. Gummy* of gummy bears.<br />
<br />
Despite the charms of Nelson proper we headed out of town to our cottage. The first night we stayed in the Upper Bronte Penisula area, about 20 minutes away from city center. It was a fantastic location to explore the area before actually heading into the Abel Tasman National Park, our main destination. We went to a couple wineries, Wollaston and Neudorf. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcLSiFL5BHlz75rXXmYWteQLh-d_n5igb8lob6hOzZWjjzW_SXpDnfxZp39O-MBa1gi9t6q719ugkl21hFkmVBraDejpsgBPK8gjzQyX9Nr9EwOCO-f7lH7jFNK0JKIbIcDilenL1rrfNv/s1600/Neudorf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcLSiFL5BHlz75rXXmYWteQLh-d_n5igb8lob6hOzZWjjzW_SXpDnfxZp39O-MBa1gi9t6q719ugkl21hFkmVBraDejpsgBPK8gjzQyX9Nr9EwOCO-f7lH7jFNK0JKIbIcDilenL1rrfNv/s1600/Neudorf.jpg" height="114" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Both were worth visiting, but Neudorf was the clear winner because not only were the wines delicious, but they had a sand box. Pre-baby I would simply see a box of sand with some toys in it or more like likely not notice it all. Now I see a mansion on a hill, the Mary Poppins of my dreams, a brief real vacation in the middle of my already happening vacation. You get the point. It's the small things.<br />
<br />
We went for a walk on Rabbit Island and had fish and chips at the Smokehouse and beer at the Golden Bear Brewing Company. Both spots are located in the Mapua Harbour, which had an easy, time stands still, what year is it anyway kind of feeling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KmqcuoIasqJwt9ZAu-BFpJQguOtiwYPshpyxtmUDWufJ1iEP14_0ivKuaX8A20nsritSYARFeqCgLq6FRM6KOaSXLXGDLSbQ71VN-YsHI503wYz63KbTGTTehjfhtMj47FTF3lLLdfml/s1600/Mapua+Harbour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KmqcuoIasqJwt9ZAu-BFpJQguOtiwYPshpyxtmUDWufJ1iEP14_0ivKuaX8A20nsritSYARFeqCgLq6FRM6KOaSXLXGDLSbQ71VN-YsHI503wYz63KbTGTTehjfhtMj47FTF3lLLdfml/s1600/Mapua+Harbour.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
After a day down that way, we forged onward to Kaiteriteri, where we rented a bach. One of the beaches we could walk to from our place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Mt2j0KsgBUe8IYyNzCaLZ2BECFi2bbQZS7Z33hxzqE2n_FQX6Ejmx_rAYpEiSGdT0j0I8KgiGilp4K6B_dJBh-Tf79pmk-ROXtRNIwJxkWjL32IcuohjJN2A2Z6EwmNSWkJR9TThO6dH/s1600/Nelson+beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Mt2j0KsgBUe8IYyNzCaLZ2BECFi2bbQZS7Z33hxzqE2n_FQX6Ejmx_rAYpEiSGdT0j0I8KgiGilp4K6B_dJBh-Tf79pmk-ROXtRNIwJxkWjL32IcuohjJN2A2Z6EwmNSWkJR9TThO6dH/s1600/Nelson+beach.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
We did some driving and exploring throughout Golden Bay, with a few stops along the way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHbJ-sxXT47z0r3NvppUOqXrFNDUARtelK-0030RmrFDOND5EqxVVLl7KsUUGkqvrMJxjAXpudGRsj242_AvC3iiQPYGle1kSJTCt8FQZelSFK_ge1_ZjkIjHOF5OYaPm7uZ4aGDKBmG-B/s1600/Nelson+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHbJ-sxXT47z0r3NvppUOqXrFNDUARtelK-0030RmrFDOND5EqxVVLl7KsUUGkqvrMJxjAXpudGRsj242_AvC3iiQPYGle1kSJTCt8FQZelSFK_ge1_ZjkIjHOF5OYaPm7uZ4aGDKBmG-B/s1600/Nelson+View.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
One stop was Anatoki Salmon, "a unique freshwater salmon experience," which is code for we have a lot of fish in a small space so you will not go home looking like a fishing loser even though everyone knows if you could really wish you wouldn't be here. Adam caught our lunch and they smoked it on the spot. Hazel loves her some smoked salmon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrykK6RkT2BkvFoRMYYeT6zEzDqR1vk8i4I1A2B7G_CYi3nI9ULib2m-uZ3p0l9_ilQexBIECoW_evHjNGo-jD8Qd0CXIIXVpEFjUIF_uDyhFz18vP_Rcn97gAzk37SiISYcjrHjVNaBD0/s1600/Nelson+Salmon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrykK6RkT2BkvFoRMYYeT6zEzDqR1vk8i4I1A2B7G_CYi3nI9ULib2m-uZ3p0l9_ilQexBIECoW_evHjNGo-jD8Qd0CXIIXVpEFjUIF_uDyhFz18vP_Rcn97gAzk37SiISYcjrHjVNaBD0/s1600/Nelson+Salmon.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Our trip to the actual park was great. Abel Tasman is known throughout New Zealand for it's white sand beaches a sparkling blue water. It didn't disappoint. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNK4wnh9pgidMt-05AZmB_mwjHaTgpH3vgkHo35YXh9jWxBHQAjnPOFo2Hcxstm7xw8KSW_j4WYm2f0oT_D0GCIBSdTNlCfXozxDGyEwd9Vx0IeWmzOHB8hh070z6vq9Nb0VO6izTYranf/s1600/Abel+Tasman+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNK4wnh9pgidMt-05AZmB_mwjHaTgpH3vgkHo35YXh9jWxBHQAjnPOFo2Hcxstm7xw8KSW_j4WYm2f0oT_D0GCIBSdTNlCfXozxDGyEwd9Vx0IeWmzOHB8hh070z6vq9Nb0VO6izTYranf/s1600/Abel+Tasman+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
You can only get into the park by boat, water taxis will drop you at one spot and pick you up at another, depending on how long you want to hike for. It's great because you could stay in the park for 5 days or go for an afternoon, clearly we opted for the latter option. It was a beautiful hike and the perfect distance to do with a baby. She loved the boat rides.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvm2SS5uC72QEA5G0iB0SwQbpWUOdJx8jqt_D7-DEkAIz7KXK-ZrKNuXWd9FA0g9H7fGn9UWPVb1_N3lhY4fEy6JqhN56BNeyja24vjzgt07sVCJylsgDdwIbze4e0ExgyBB8o82adGH6j/s1600/Nelson+water+taxi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvm2SS5uC72QEA5G0iB0SwQbpWUOdJx8jqt_D7-DEkAIz7KXK-ZrKNuXWd9FA0g9H7fGn9UWPVb1_N3lhY4fEy6JqhN56BNeyja24vjzgt07sVCJylsgDdwIbze4e0ExgyBB8o82adGH6j/s1600/Nelson+water+taxi.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Another hike worth checking out if you are in the area is the one at Little Kaiteriteri beach. We just stumbled upon it and had awesome views. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NyHEjt0lrKr6yVuyh0TsSaH0MM31NujciQhECJvRIKg0gnzOJET6v09tO_nFQRP2uCS-c-Qi884O3B7p8xypMNSWGxmS6eMakRSp5Hhlv4dREiKol0zpLvnYQ888WdrLVQ9h4TqvK9Ku/s1600/Little+Kaiteriteri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NyHEjt0lrKr6yVuyh0TsSaH0MM31NujciQhECJvRIKg0gnzOJET6v09tO_nFQRP2uCS-c-Qi884O3B7p8xypMNSWGxmS6eMakRSp5Hhlv4dREiKol0zpLvnYQ888WdrLVQ9h4TqvK9Ku/s1600/Little+Kaiteriteri.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Overall, Nelson was definitely one of our favorite places we've been. Thanks to Chris for coming out to visit us.<br />
<br />
And, before I end this post I want to mention Tony and Allison Schlake. Tony and I went to college together and I didn't even know he was living out here until I met his wife, and their lovely daughter Maggie, at my local playground a couple months ago and we put it all together. While our time together was short, it was certainly sweet. They moved back to the States recently, but apparently it's a small world after all- even if you live in New Zealand. They are missed!<br />
<br />
Next up....our trip to Oz. <br />
<br />
*There is no Mr. GummyKatie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-87157156855351100392013-11-12T10:01:00.000-08:002013-11-12T16:44:55.326-08:00Baby, You're A Firework<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0Cd571lFWLwasTfiT0-CKjvQFFIltNF3z60HWnZm8OtVD5hG2qiqc-jf5ZRSyB-MVZxNALe9Jhy-5Fg3F_ctJWUL0qteLhGWvpdN6hcYaAQmn_eKf8v584t-jA938Jtpa1Cb5uzhKpRO/s1600/Hazel+Campbells+Bay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0Cd571lFWLwasTfiT0-CKjvQFFIltNF3z60HWnZm8OtVD5hG2qiqc-jf5ZRSyB-MVZxNALe9Jhy-5Fg3F_ctJWUL0qteLhGWvpdN6hcYaAQmn_eKf8v584t-jA938Jtpa1Cb5uzhKpRO/s1600/Hazel+Campbells+Bay.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm coming up on my 2 year anniversary in New Zealand. Man, it's a been a busy and exciting two that's for sure. The physical beauty of this country continues to take my breath away on an often daily basis. The day this picture was taken, I had just walked to the beach to get some fresh air with Hazel and Thurston and voila - a school of dolphins. They were jumping up, twisting, turning. and bobbing in and out of the water. It was truly magical. <br />
<br />
With my anniversary approaching, I've been thinking about all the things I'm use to now, but culturally are really very different than life back home. Take trampolines for instance. When I was growing up, I knew maybe one kid that had a trampoline and that was definitely their claim to fame. Here, it's like every other house has one so it's more like the American equivalent of being divorced or having a butterfly tattoo on the small of your back.<br />
<br />
Did you know we don't tip here? You won't see a sign like this, but it sure would be funny if you did: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvzqA3jXPaLWQpvG2M3ZLWEjWSWsyFhi4PcUCkSyOhNf6XsQUKYuiOJyDt2O_YrmW2wFS3k90fQGEJYM1TX57BfIRppDpUWAWWd61a46W5Jer_sT3W8-i-9GoUClqk5gkyRO6KbNf9rM4/s1600/Tipping+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvzqA3jXPaLWQpvG2M3ZLWEjWSWsyFhi4PcUCkSyOhNf6XsQUKYuiOJyDt2O_YrmW2wFS3k90fQGEJYM1TX57BfIRppDpUWAWWd61a46W5Jer_sT3W8-i-9GoUClqk5gkyRO6KbNf9rM4/s1600/Tipping+image.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It took some getting use to but I actually really love it. When you see a price on a menu, at a shop, at the salon, etc. tax and tip are already included. As someone who has made many a rent with tips I always appreciated those who help support my fancy bourbon and massage habit, but it's great having that tipping pressure removed from situations. So now if my hair dresser tells me she broke up with her boyfriend and is going to India to find herself I don't feel the need to make a hefty contribution to her ashram stay and can just give emotional support for her book, "Eat, Pray, Blow Dry- How I Helped Change the World One Haircut at a Time. "<br />
<br />
The negative side of this no tipping thing is that customer service can really stink. There are different kinds of bad customer service - there is the general bad attitude kind, the I hate my job and now you must pay for it kind, the no matter what you say I'm going to repeat the few lines I've learned and act like a machine even though I'm human kind, and the I have no idea what's going on, but I do actually work here and at least I'm nice kind. NZ customer service usually falls in the latter from my experience. It can be a little crazy making but I usually have other things to worry about, like this little ladybird:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5F0LFVGvPZHXvSVKp34lIjjXcYWiXfikKXHZy4a35844A2DjVUftBuG8u4lxPEs6x-m_VzfS2-87DkMRDFZe6eSFVbDHLC1xF-KfKJ9Hsh63JkjUs1MP6N3n03hzc218dVYt9CfJUnyMg/s1600/Hazel+ladybird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5F0LFVGvPZHXvSVKp34lIjjXcYWiXfikKXHZy4a35844A2DjVUftBuG8u4lxPEs6x-m_VzfS2-87DkMRDFZe6eSFVbDHLC1xF-KfKJ9Hsh63JkjUs1MP6N3n03hzc218dVYt9CfJUnyMg/s1600/Hazel+ladybird.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's ladybugs to Americans and ladybirds to Kiwis. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQ1CeBPPT0MKSox5zq_0OX6x2uev7hMMXsds_bT4LodxAFVUpioHG_U-nxWLzcdjZgp__FJdZZ2e_iWBsc3Doun0BF1ic3EmJL4PjO6Ogn2FYmtkfZJxvxHALnjVvYtJ5-Vsuj_mGstQm/s1600/Hazel+Thurston+Ladybird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQ1CeBPPT0MKSox5zq_0OX6x2uev7hMMXsds_bT4LodxAFVUpioHG_U-nxWLzcdjZgp__FJdZZ2e_iWBsc3Doun0BF1ic3EmJL4PjO6Ogn2FYmtkfZJxvxHALnjVvYtJ5-Vsuj_mGstQm/s1600/Hazel+Thurston+Ladybird.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And a dog is called a dog. There are so many different words for things that I just pick and choose which ones I like best. Patriotic I know. For instance, Kiwis call flip flops jandals. Jandals doesn't do it for me so I stick with flip flops. Ladybird, that's pretty cute so I'll go with that. On the Halloween front, people do celebrate it here but nothing like the US. They do the trick or treating part but that's about it and it's only been in the past few years that it's really done. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOaynz9jfGgeg5GOWFF4HGJCPan2EOYDTJ8o_QQt7cSF9cJbWSdQijb8bCfA9Uo0fOZ5psMsGTfyp5ulfJrTOOd-sBI6SoUKZ-xmvu-CbMR43yLHLPCIXOJpDFpMzIrFl461ZJ4THbrnX7/s1600/Hazel+pumpkin+booty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOaynz9jfGgeg5GOWFF4HGJCPan2EOYDTJ8o_QQt7cSF9cJbWSdQijb8bCfA9Uo0fOZ5psMsGTfyp5ulfJrTOOd-sBI6SoUKZ-xmvu-CbMR43yLHLPCIXOJpDFpMzIrFl461ZJ4THbrnX7/s1600/Hazel+pumpkin+booty.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
What Kiwis do celebrate is Guy Fawkes Day. It's an old English event celebrated on the night of November 5th with bonfires and fireworks. What this means in New Zealand is that from Nov 2nd- 5th you can buy fireworks, but only on those three days and the rest of the year it is illegal. So during that time you see pop up shops selling fireworks all over the city. <br />
<br />
We were in the Coromandel during one of these legal days and got to see quite an impressive fireworks show from the balcony of our bach.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcj75EthrBfQ4cqlkiCr581hyphenhyphenwZCJolqcwZ6rGtbOoAv-MgwuTNuZFdanwDeT_GZpmEco4vxWr6O_-b9aOMmjUW3qBQR7OSHQxcrphDfiDud6HXWIFWcmfzRMnio2vrWK33zpH5-xr5XBE/s1600/Coromandel+bach+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcj75EthrBfQ4cqlkiCr581hyphenhyphenwZCJolqcwZ6rGtbOoAv-MgwuTNuZFdanwDeT_GZpmEco4vxWr6O_-b9aOMmjUW3qBQR7OSHQxcrphDfiDud6HXWIFWcmfzRMnio2vrWK33zpH5-xr5XBE/s1600/Coromandel+bach+view.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Adam and I just pretended it was the 4th of July and sang our best Lee Greenwood, "God Bless the USA" to each other. When we weren't doing that we were out exploring places like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUAlLxMO7udWNUPNk1g2vx7tTl_ugeVPVM71LI5qkEY9lebeQuduPG8GvGSD58wfXOWzDpfC_gq95Qn5O-qNmPAu0kb7EEcd1uP39W2iPihxgj5DfA467YXp8r0oNiXRzW8z1UqTafRXT/s1600/Cathedral+Cove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUAlLxMO7udWNUPNk1g2vx7tTl_ugeVPVM71LI5qkEY9lebeQuduPG8GvGSD58wfXOWzDpfC_gq95Qn5O-qNmPAu0kb7EEcd1uP39W2iPihxgj5DfA467YXp8r0oNiXRzW8z1UqTafRXT/s1600/Cathedral+Cove.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh and this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeH0q9zogXhRCLktFZeXuqjtpeGGumZr1Ya6xU1yobSrtgvaqCL6QwQzeUB4wd8R-EW9s12sEzSNfu2d1Bha3eeueIfMXk0EvrxB6oqE1jg-qGaT2zH12mOq020whREBlDZjrVa4_DqI9/s1600/Catherdral+Cove+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeH0q9zogXhRCLktFZeXuqjtpeGGumZr1Ya6xU1yobSrtgvaqCL6QwQzeUB4wd8R-EW9s12sEzSNfu2d1Bha3eeueIfMXk0EvrxB6oqE1jg-qGaT2zH12mOq020whREBlDZjrVa4_DqI9/s320/Catherdral+Cove+2.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
Cathedral Cove is pretty incredible. It is a very photographed spot so I had seen tons of pictures, but to be there felt really special. Hazel especially enjoyed the water taxi ride to get there. Another highlight of the weekend was a visit to New Chum's beach. You have to cross over a stream and do a little hike to get there, but it was worth it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHb7umyhLz3ITu6zwyjgLP424_E5nKrMV744Xhcz7eB4IKPpV34RvSi4KDxniGU8XicllCiC3s1A5TOzo5R2sTE-JFr3Dz_B1yTfjLv4AmgOa8vDuef4rz8T3bTpwniOuGlakZ3W_boSGu/s1600/New+Chum%2527s+Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHb7umyhLz3ITu6zwyjgLP424_E5nKrMV744Xhcz7eB4IKPpV34RvSi4KDxniGU8XicllCiC3s1A5TOzo5R2sTE-JFr3Dz_B1yTfjLv4AmgOa8vDuef4rz8T3bTpwniOuGlakZ3W_boSGu/s1600/New+Chum%2527s+Beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It was gorgeous and of course not too many others there to compete with.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrJxcLHgG3KmMEFA9Zf7sF_X3XAyy7o52ThMREY0K-26kCl_Cc863-LL8k0lNgnf9JpQNc2tFAbT2BwmXZB9DKZSSRiLgSX4j2vwg0aRCn3hkMt1GwFHtJfkPs6NufURrpPe4a6LFWFu9/s1600/Hazel+New+Chum's+Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrJxcLHgG3KmMEFA9Zf7sF_X3XAyy7o52ThMREY0K-26kCl_Cc863-LL8k0lNgnf9JpQNc2tFAbT2BwmXZB9DKZSSRiLgSX4j2vwg0aRCn3hkMt1GwFHtJfkPs6NufURrpPe4a6LFWFu9/s1600/Hazel+New+Chum's+Beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I wish I could say I was surprised, but I've gotten use to the lack of people. Auckland is nicknamed "The Big Smoke,"which always makes me laugh as I don't see it this way at all, however the more time I spend in NZ the more I see how truly rural and underpopulated that the rest of the country is that I understand how it could get this reputation. <br />
<br />
Speaking of rural, not too long ago we went on a little family outing to the Kiwi Valley Farm Park . I'm not sure if it was more for Hazel or me as ever since moving here I have wanted to give a bottle to a baby sheep, since I learned that is something you can do. I got a baby goat instead, but good enough. We did get to pet the baby sheep, which was pretty sweet. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Afv2kWk4ONV_efaqV7MmkzZBwTKt68jXLxM2HbiF5iSLjP83a3qVbg2b7XdDSZRdsjuC_wouQMDwWHnbmc0NJMiea0NwmqoatqewgYxDLsdGAmZ68oQiOAJFIgCEVMtAHRxnbn3M1z46/s1600/Hazel+Farm+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Afv2kWk4ONV_efaqV7MmkzZBwTKt68jXLxM2HbiF5iSLjP83a3qVbg2b7XdDSZRdsjuC_wouQMDwWHnbmc0NJMiea0NwmqoatqewgYxDLsdGAmZ68oQiOAJFIgCEVMtAHRxnbn3M1z46/s1600/Hazel+Farm+Park.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Awww babies. There was so much cuteness at my friend Michelle's baby shower. It was such a lovely afternoon and I had the honor of being Game Master. Is that a title? I don't know, it is now. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuxx_4q-w6WckT3n5-c6yKD1lsI3ElpNyNWGmNwOawtbfjyajsl-LDJrE-p0vbH8eQaN_RMBMVYD5An_nfL54711Aea9VomxrXKk-Hr_Lla8RisRsk7cYwyN_aGjwme8tb9xxcK3CZsqn/s1600/Michelle+Shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuxx_4q-w6WckT3n5-c6yKD1lsI3ElpNyNWGmNwOawtbfjyajsl-LDJrE-p0vbH8eQaN_RMBMVYD5An_nfL54711Aea9VomxrXKk-Hr_Lla8RisRsk7cYwyN_aGjwme8tb9xxcK3CZsqn/s320/Michelle+Shower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Before she know it she will be spending her days like this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-jJKXGZ_Eb5SDVce_czwYzxaxPelg7486zJHzvAIq4fvlXlE3J4em1GJxQXJ6Cax5xNzNvj0xyr2bhjZDoU8KPRQ4m9dvHh6bJe8VoZbW00I7JtBkiOfUgI3AeVrxoCJwkdJpSUtQeFB/s1600/Hazel+Mom+playground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-jJKXGZ_Eb5SDVce_czwYzxaxPelg7486zJHzvAIq4fvlXlE3J4em1GJxQXJ6Cax5xNzNvj0xyr2bhjZDoU8KPRQ4m9dvHh6bJe8VoZbW00I7JtBkiOfUgI3AeVrxoCJwkdJpSUtQeFB/s1600/Hazel+Mom+playground.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Working the playground circuit around Auckland, 'cause that's what we do.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also celebrate birthdays. Adam recently turned another year older. At this point I've just stopped giving him presents and cook for him instead. What did Adam want for his special day? Chicken fingers. Shocking I know. And homemade honey butter yeast rolls. And chocolate cake. I swear we do eat vegetables in this household, apparently just not on Adam's birthday. So I made his birthday heart attack and he loved every last bite. I can say this since he didn't actually have a heart attack. If he had had one I would have to start the Birthdays Against Chicken Fingers Foundation and you would all have to donate and warn others of the perils. But he survived and judging from this picture is working as a bodyguard in his free time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wctoMrGW7dMSglpj3pC-PMVQ-92ycv56d6iyEAHI3RvtgIxrvNi1G0W8nhyJQhWp_Bb4hUAaSHY5Y0drjLxL1sw8fofsBJ1WthWgy-qgXux0hMFhTRlJ24Sid5IP30XpJcnuqhR6U4Bv/s1600/Adam+Hazel+Bodyguard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wctoMrGW7dMSglpj3pC-PMVQ-92ycv56d6iyEAHI3RvtgIxrvNi1G0W8nhyJQhWp_Bb4hUAaSHY5Y0drjLxL1sw8fofsBJ1WthWgy-qgXux0hMFhTRlJ24Sid5IP30XpJcnuqhR6U4Bv/s1600/Adam+Hazel+Bodyguard.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And Hazel is teaching herself to read:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxLPqO0kuCBpMzl0ZQ-3I5HpRd8k6ggsr0HMVInhoohDcocRZkCDf9DFSMNIRpKqV-f1xDRxrqqIx74kRJDsgOg5ko0LWQqqU8GxEmbWz2LCV_GON-CpgXOYffmUC_gaOc5_TYe5jBO9DO/s1600/Hazel+bookcase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxLPqO0kuCBpMzl0ZQ-3I5HpRd8k6ggsr0HMVInhoohDcocRZkCDf9DFSMNIRpKqV-f1xDRxrqqIx74kRJDsgOg5ko0LWQqqU8GxEmbWz2LCV_GON-CpgXOYffmUC_gaOc5_TYe5jBO9DO/s1600/Hazel+bookcase.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maybe at this rate, she'll have her own blog. </div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-77654618891480696002013-10-10T12:24:00.000-07:002013-10-10T12:24:08.863-07:00Anchors Away...er Aweigh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bsbG_AvuMIgVzNyoNTyYhOSx9cT0Oyb9Mj1Ar2GNkB1gVbykQeFTT-IpXQLxgoZskmBSKGPeCXvU-O3Gc4kh6RXgxJVs3HWZOTtLmpIKM4gWNtwOganWPt5lwqfTklFyf1frOoP5EhC0/s1600/H+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bsbG_AvuMIgVzNyoNTyYhOSx9cT0Oyb9Mj1Ar2GNkB1gVbykQeFTT-IpXQLxgoZskmBSKGPeCXvU-O3Gc4kh6RXgxJVs3HWZOTtLmpIKM4gWNtwOganWPt5lwqfTklFyf1frOoP5EhC0/s320/H+%25281%2529.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Well I survived another international flight with a baby. Hazel has logged some serious miles in her 9 months on this earth. Man, feels like I've know her for so much longer then that, but I guess that's what happens when you grow that human inside you, spend all your time caring for their well being, and follow it up with wiping poo from their backside numerous times a day. And that people, is how you create intimacy. Don't say I never shared any of my professional wisdom with you and for free. <br />
<br />
The flight to the US was indeed long and I won't bore you with any of the details, like how many times my arms went numb and tingly or how 10 minutes feels like an hour when you are in the air with a child, honestly she did great and is kind of a superstar traveler. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CLPZk9LKGaOHMKhGyy7waTU5cNXJwqZllsysdISlEJQ-LhdQHOhnsWf6x2ByjB1Es5Br0RshqieVhjXhYD0OZJ1TYa5zeLewqfWMlWU52WXRr60vebb2YJjc7h_zTgi3bg7ERJYWsTzJ/s1600/Hazel+plane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CLPZk9LKGaOHMKhGyy7waTU5cNXJwqZllsysdISlEJQ-LhdQHOhnsWf6x2ByjB1Es5Br0RshqieVhjXhYD0OZJ1TYa5zeLewqfWMlWU52WXRr60vebb2YJjc7h_zTgi3bg7ERJYWsTzJ/s1600/Hazel+plane.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The only thing worth mentioning about the actual flight is the magazine article I managed to read in a Woman's Day left on the plane. For those of you not familiar with said publication, imagine anything that makes you proud to be a woman and then picture the opposite. Anyway the article was about a young boy wanting a sex change. His mother told this story about him - " I remember, age three, he was watching a cartoon about a magic man on the moon and he said, "Mummy, do you think the magic man can take my doodle off so I can have a 'gina like the girls?" <br />
<br />
If you were having a bad day, it's officially over. <br />
<br />
Unless you are Emirates Team New Zealand and you might still have a case of the blues. I had no idea I could get so into sailing until this most recent America's Cup. It was truly exciting. Kiwis are crazy for sailing and America's Cup is HUGE here. Many Kiwis we talked to were very surprised to find out how not a big deal it is back home. Adam and I totally got into it, watched all the races, and were Team NZ all the way. Unfortunately they lost in the end, but wow what a regatta. Productivity was certainly down in NZ during what was the longest race in the Cup's history.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoYGsegg9eOCO1bzmWFHzXCeI9OkkoO8t1OjzDHQxdno49caCCHk_Lk6mpf_e30shq29MoK9keZdCO8g0meBAQv9m7aNKrGWVC218HlIMgx3xkIyNEBp4VMBVrco4nCLvYWBcUstmyMme/s1600/America's+Cup.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoYGsegg9eOCO1bzmWFHzXCeI9OkkoO8t1OjzDHQxdno49caCCHk_Lk6mpf_e30shq29MoK9keZdCO8g0meBAQv9m7aNKrGWVC218HlIMgx3xkIyNEBp4VMBVrco4nCLvYWBcUstmyMme/s1600/America's+Cup.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
But back to our trip home, it was great. Ahh it's so freaking amazing to see people that actually know you and do fun things with them. I got to go to Napa:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkplQuOMJvtoWxuxDaj9Ce4mcASPYWeb8022faKpa8hisfAgRWmpyczKgDN5gJcbVx_4GQrlrtVYXJKuOQj9mijrdwkM6Iz5ZG46fILCxi1WrvAbe-xVu73NjdLKH0DUYa2VxOBEyitfEd/s1600/Katie+Napa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkplQuOMJvtoWxuxDaj9Ce4mcASPYWeb8022faKpa8hisfAgRWmpyczKgDN5gJcbVx_4GQrlrtVYXJKuOQj9mijrdwkM6Iz5ZG46fILCxi1WrvAbe-xVu73NjdLKH0DUYa2VxOBEyitfEd/s320/Katie+Napa.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Take Hazel to the mountains:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfW4J4n35psjb80GlQ02uK5ix772_42EGL6YLSUG0IPsIYcQCi-9cLg6oVnWemcJ9bvwaPconbMImDmYa0AtKJZ0gLz2RzgtkI2jqgnVrLlgToP4VIZtRdsbcZim5GkCZd-5m8kq1RRrE/s1600/Hazel+cabin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfW4J4n35psjb80GlQ02uK5ix772_42EGL6YLSUG0IPsIYcQCi-9cLg6oVnWemcJ9bvwaPconbMImDmYa0AtKJZ0gLz2RzgtkI2jqgnVrLlgToP4VIZtRdsbcZim5GkCZd-5m8kq1RRrE/s1600/Hazel+cabin.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
See a Falcons game, catch up with so many dear people, and a slew of other things that would take too long to list. I also managed to drink a milkshake every few days. It was awesome. Almost as awesome as this pit stop one evening. Can anyone say late night date night?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1z3sZc3WmLub8-9Q9_Hl4At-J7BftrG7p7Xhy3djJBhZIbnAJekzvSSdimHLf-JC_qp7DQDsvaWGoVT0hcaJSSiRWRIeJyOgp97tX2GVeB84MurF9F480d1Dl2tPhXgcXYmry0dxxQrdN/s1600/Waffle+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1z3sZc3WmLub8-9Q9_Hl4At-J7BftrG7p7Xhy3djJBhZIbnAJekzvSSdimHLf-JC_qp7DQDsvaWGoVT0hcaJSSiRWRIeJyOgp97tX2GVeB84MurF9F480d1Dl2tPhXgcXYmry0dxxQrdN/s1600/Waffle+House.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A special shout out to our friends Josh and Patricia who flew in from Philly to see us. Our little girls loved each other.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RVN9orDgw7V8h8g-tYimQ0ozMpbcdQRySjssLXVAT5uKno3uxTw9PssD0seeLShwewt8K7GGV6Pia1Ohvv01khTCPrsTOw-jr7bZ_R6T-vMIJK3mjkB-8iZsOzsCD9A8BEPl-IO39gok/s1600/Fiona+and+Hazel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RVN9orDgw7V8h8g-tYimQ0ozMpbcdQRySjssLXVAT5uKno3uxTw9PssD0seeLShwewt8K7GGV6Pia1Ohvv01khTCPrsTOw-jr7bZ_R6T-vMIJK3mjkB-8iZsOzsCD9A8BEPl-IO39gok/s1600/Fiona+and+Hazel.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Anyway, we were crazy busy and it often feels like there is never enough of us to go around, but that's just kind of the deal. I think everyone who lives the expat life or even just far from home, experiences the frenetic energy that accompanies a trip back, and it is exhausting. Luckily it's mixed in with moments of great joy, periodic relaxation, lots of people we love, and built in babysitters. And comic relief in the form of one particular trip to the pool. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOfS9d3JMxbw2nSSjy4A9i2l0Zi5qMYv8XweqXS4TOWKsqq-SMZiVqj9O6jISIOvlR1yWphcJkXlgmY7zTUx3p-fj6DX1JLZJHsoZNl5wETomhe0vCuHZ8LsH01PfU6UnsE3M7Ww1795w/s1600/Adam+Hazel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOfS9d3JMxbw2nSSjy4A9i2l0Zi5qMYv8XweqXS4TOWKsqq-SMZiVqj9O6jISIOvlR1yWphcJkXlgmY7zTUx3p-fj6DX1JLZJHsoZNl5wETomhe0vCuHZ8LsH01PfU6UnsE3M7Ww1795w/s1600/Adam+Hazel.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We attempted to take Hazel for a dip with Adam's family and cousins that were in town and after finally getting everyone to the same place, a feat in itself, we are told the pool had just been closed because some kid did his business in the wrong office, if you know what I mean. Everyone then gets directed to use the indoor pool. This is when my ship sails, but Adam stays on and comes back later to report that shortly after the party got moved indoors that the inside pool closed because some kid took a crap in that pool too. I can't make this stuff up people. Needless to say, I did not return to poop pool as it would be called if it was on say Scooby Doo. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy11zgOP2reLW60MaTOHCeZJFD7ZwiSSqdyenfPaC8a8yf3MGl4aEgRHOV46JiSc_DSPVxGS-Zk7RXpSXjzb1wKMwQhE9ehlvHYWsUDaBSjI2BiDaisDfYBxlfpUX0zk9F2EemnmESIag3/s1600/Hazel+pool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy11zgOP2reLW60MaTOHCeZJFD7ZwiSSqdyenfPaC8a8yf3MGl4aEgRHOV46JiSc_DSPVxGS-Zk7RXpSXjzb1wKMwQhE9ehlvHYWsUDaBSjI2BiDaisDfYBxlfpUX0zk9F2EemnmESIag3/s320/Hazel+pool.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We did manage to take Hazel for a swim in Knoxville and she loved it. The cool thing about going back in American summer is that you get to go enjoy it and then come home to New Zealand and have summer be right around the corner. Unfortunately what I also came home to was a bout of conjunctivitis. Haven't had that in years. When I went to see the doctor for my eye a conversation like this happened. <br />
<br />
Me: "So, I have conjunctivitis. Is that the same as pink eye?<br />
<br />
Doctor (woman with thick eastern European accent): Oh red eye, oh yes it can be but no.<br />
<br />
<em>Making mental note that from here on out I will just refer to it as Valentines Day eye</em><br />
<br />
Me: Is it contagious? <br />
<br />
Doctor (please read in accent for full effect:) "I don't think so. Not very much."<br />
<br />
Alrighty then. Reminds me of that time I got a little bit pregnant.<br />
<br />
Despite that and Hazel catching her first cold, it's been nice to be back. I mean, after all, this is what I'm coming back to.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5llA-GDdQ9WVHh-xAONDC4HTWXCqNo1m8LKzmeCigxf4_Yxm9f4mSE_pzgnW5gDvHRAv5Led0guq1i30jq8vHc1RmZOe4TRQzkDJs8cpvn4AdF6pRIRoRkKdgvtyMYey18vhfY8GLG9Lv/s1600/kennedy+park+view.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5llA-GDdQ9WVHh-xAONDC4HTWXCqNo1m8LKzmeCigxf4_Yxm9f4mSE_pzgnW5gDvHRAv5Led0guq1i30jq8vHc1RmZOe4TRQzkDJs8cpvn4AdF6pRIRoRkKdgvtyMYey18vhfY8GLG9Lv/s1600/kennedy+park+view.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We did have a window of health a couple of weeks ago and took a little road trip to the Mount, aka Mt. Maunganui/Tauranga. Such a lovely little spot and we had a great night out on the town with some new friends. That sounded weird, like we're swingers or met them online or something, but we didn't. It was a fun weekend. Check out the view from the top:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEide95OFFbYv2IIRsHNoiF0o3axMiijQlumlK-b8eV1HAFMIulVkORLVK9ru-f6mtFQRaz1HQwgUaB8wOHxprp-e5PgPWrCPUPnn0nBkks8twz_8SuIzsFLIu-3Stfrj8hT3dwwz1aCwQxx/s1600/Mount+view.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEide95OFFbYv2IIRsHNoiF0o3axMiijQlumlK-b8eV1HAFMIulVkORLVK9ru-f6mtFQRaz1HQwgUaB8wOHxprp-e5PgPWrCPUPnn0nBkks8twz_8SuIzsFLIu-3Stfrj8hT3dwwz1aCwQxx/s1600/Mount+view.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's a perfect place for a quick weekend getaway from Auckland. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQGnMmG2vvA2WTQSX_LUVmJKPWZZZgzpDL9qbBbAQ-vHQeVEhaudVhFbC7g3edDbuJzqEmRXppznZhNorrGovauCDjc84OHeXq9iOBblhNM3eWjlQsz0N1uE5QOPHAco8_qkJfvyD9FOZJ/s1600/Mount+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQGnMmG2vvA2WTQSX_LUVmJKPWZZZgzpDL9qbBbAQ-vHQeVEhaudVhFbC7g3edDbuJzqEmRXppznZhNorrGovauCDjc84OHeXq9iOBblhNM3eWjlQsz0N1uE5QOPHAco8_qkJfvyD9FOZJ/s1600/Mount+beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Room with a view:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqH-4hkI3PacWYTMgrkqSnvnqYQ4p4rMCb5rnZaSLAopCnoxd4r1IKr25Prh7zbwLH6-NJUxoyBtGgZFeR_0k0snQz-fQjxrIuY-SuPxr0ySIqjwsomp_DMqBfVZCxgCb6OiXtYWY1Y-8/s1600/Mount+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqH-4hkI3PacWYTMgrkqSnvnqYQ4p4rMCb5rnZaSLAopCnoxd4r1IKr25Prh7zbwLH6-NJUxoyBtGgZFeR_0k0snQz-fQjxrIuY-SuPxr0ySIqjwsomp_DMqBfVZCxgCb6OiXtYWY1Y-8/s1600/Mount+room.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hazel enjoyed the café scene:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGLl6OYgo37FebjFiy3GGvFoxCSQp_aK2QdhdwAPplgnPqqo8IlPWfTu0qQ08RAGkaP2o0pktLQqWfZskwvQw0P0uNjOT3HgumGercu-WzVdhqer9v9kmyEiMiBhb9C0YWVMby5x8DoMx/s1600/Mount+cafe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGLl6OYgo37FebjFiy3GGvFoxCSQp_aK2QdhdwAPplgnPqqo8IlPWfTu0qQ08RAGkaP2o0pktLQqWfZskwvQw0P0uNjOT3HgumGercu-WzVdhqer9v9kmyEiMiBhb9C0YWVMby5x8DoMx/s1600/Mount+cafe.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Still so much of New Zealand left to explore. Where shall we go next? Probably the same question the guy that owns this boat is asking himself.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQ-Mgw_Vn2Rzg-LmvvJocAq3x4z7eNkIziRJkmW9hC_bPbSX6hwHOCcXHUJfFBwzzFNnxgYqrdYsSEvkBMOJMWfXwCxdGiNESnDHhzTOfrpaiFyP7fe8ACgbruJwwSomIp4y_SwZkprCB/s1600/mega-yacht-a-owned-andrei-melnichenko1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQ-Mgw_Vn2Rzg-LmvvJocAq3x4z7eNkIziRJkmW9hC_bPbSX6hwHOCcXHUJfFBwzzFNnxgYqrdYsSEvkBMOJMWfXwCxdGiNESnDHhzTOfrpaiFyP7fe8ACgbruJwwSomIp4y_SwZkprCB/s320/mega-yacht-a-owned-andrei-melnichenko1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a yacht called A</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
$350 million dollar yacht currently docked in Auckland harbor.<br />
<br />
Good thing our offspring isn't too spoiled yet and prefers simple modes of transportation:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-WVOr2_aaQ0hdFJXhCRf5JSfXi_G9lp2L6ueFYWxUuImcy253xkyB52PiwMO6Fo6SYWtK8fKhGJpD3Cc2Y4YoLPm0SWJXJZKTqbTjlLUub0wssNXwsIAC9Xso3c6AKK7zp68J_PqsieQ/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-WVOr2_aaQ0hdFJXhCRf5JSfXi_G9lp2L6ueFYWxUuImcy253xkyB52PiwMO6Fo6SYWtK8fKhGJpD3Cc2Y4YoLPm0SWJXJZKTqbTjlLUub0wssNXwsIAC9Xso3c6AKK7zp68J_PqsieQ/s1600/photo.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*Top photo by AK Vogel </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-78880694461823001512013-08-01T05:13:00.000-07:002013-08-01T05:13:19.742-07:00Walking in a Winter Wonderland<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
This time tomorrow night I will be flying the friendly skies. Let's hope they are friendly at least. On occasions when they have not been, I have been know to impulsively grab the person's hand next to me whether I know them or not. In the moment it's comforting, then it's just awkward. I imagine for the person who is unaffected by such turbulence it is just awkward the entire time. And gross. My hand sweats profusely when I'm nervous. Thank goodness I don't get nervous very often. <br />
<br />
Luckily, I am travelling with my two favorite people who will provide great distraction should turbulence hit. And this one should keep me pretty busy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSI5eIgBUlFP5Xha1Ez3YBZuzdVy7_WUP3UWlE1MyBNFTycgYRQlyaZXk0_o0u2v_Rzizjryhlejo4kLFaEj18qC9n_jo-PLdCCa52mRvxVjBdMOF6ot8KssWXXO9SwL3uWDDA2YQ1DvLk/s1600/Hazel+bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSI5eIgBUlFP5Xha1Ez3YBZuzdVy7_WUP3UWlE1MyBNFTycgYRQlyaZXk0_o0u2v_Rzizjryhlejo4kLFaEj18qC9n_jo-PLdCCa52mRvxVjBdMOF6ot8KssWXXO9SwL3uWDDA2YQ1DvLk/s1600/Hazel+bath.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Like 12 hours busy. And that's direct. We start our US Tour in San Francisco followed by stops in Atlanta and Knoxville. I will be there for the whole month of August - yipeee! I have so much to do to get ready for our trip that this post will have to be short and sweet. It's been a quiet couple of months so I'll just hit the high and lowlights. <br />
<br />
Highlight: Celebrating 2 years of wedded adventure with my groom. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7naP7m-yClPitSaiZu7bgcLe-l2yc8ZCTayPDaNLoQ5hYqXZD1NRsF_mGu-Ir9hm9PiBomPFNM_RJDWfZep2EVCcNe7O_jNYqajRNKy5L2b5ZaUAXGpSuXmiYIQDtY6IahtZ9JR44D2HF/s1600/AKV_2095-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7naP7m-yClPitSaiZu7bgcLe-l2yc8ZCTayPDaNLoQ5hYqXZD1NRsF_mGu-Ir9hm9PiBomPFNM_RJDWfZep2EVCcNe7O_jNYqajRNKy5L2b5ZaUAXGpSuXmiYIQDtY6IahtZ9JR44D2HF/s320/AKV_2095-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
On our actual anniversary we went out to dinner and even got to take the fun car. Heaters going, top down, one of the best feelings ever I might ad. Cruising over the bridge, blaring Robin Thicke's, "Blurred Lines," AKA " You're a Good Girl." Would be my summer anthem if it was summer here. Such a blast. I temporarily forgot I had a child, in the best way possible. Then I came home and remembered I had a child, in the best way possible. <br />
<br />
Lowlight: Watching an E special where Mark Curry (yes Hanging with Mr. Cooper) has a shaman come in to do some sort of exorcism on him in his fancy California home. I don't know if watching this or the Hoarders where they extracted not one, not two, not three, but four dead cats from a woman's home made me feel worse about how I'd spent my time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxOG6mPbhPGOO80q3oZYsmXcpc7D56E11M71lR2N1sn26YItniWq6hoHj5BQyo43WpEhHVL_ZVadBN-d6tV2lvXk3m1xlSZmoKBdpmw4NU9dVfAA4BmTnXouvKXxfcZYuol6fBnrkgKP-/s1600/Cooper.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxOG6mPbhPGOO80q3oZYsmXcpc7D56E11M71lR2N1sn26YItniWq6hoHj5BQyo43WpEhHVL_ZVadBN-d6tV2lvXk3m1xlSZmoKBdpmw4NU9dVfAA4BmTnXouvKXxfcZYuol6fBnrkgKP-/s1600/Cooper.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Highlight: A "Christmas in July" birthday party that had a snow machine. I'm pretty sure I heard Santa's sleigh bells. It was that good. My picture, not so much, but you get the idea.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rJH8qZQx7t2k83y5mKPmB5TINNyS4HGG0MANvPT0FoCp49na0bhwMzrGKaQbNojU0So7Z1gwZi4jkEB7hQLwY9Mi-giSE3fmHz37QNE2SPa5LsGA3_CtBsqS4pwIVIHU9hrbpAkndNjm/s1600/Snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rJH8qZQx7t2k83y5mKPmB5TINNyS4HGG0MANvPT0FoCp49na0bhwMzrGKaQbNojU0So7Z1gwZi4jkEB7hQLwY9Mi-giSE3fmHz37QNE2SPa5LsGA3_CtBsqS4pwIVIHU9hrbpAkndNjm/s1600/Snow.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Lowlight: Crying in the back corner of a mall on a wheelchair ramp because the store I had gone to the mall for no longer existed. Sleep deprivation. will. break. you. down.<br />
<br />
Highlight: Realizing I don't need to use the wheelchair ramp and have so much to be thankful for and now crying tears of joy. Sleep deprivation. will. make. you. crazy.<br />
<br />
Highlight: Discovering Dante's Pizza in Ponsonby Central. I think we've been there four times in the past month. Yum. It's the real deal. Think A16 in San Francisco or Antico in Atlanta, it's that kind of pizza. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnLMk1EOckOYMCT1qWSJzC9zdjgrI-Qvt1iT8TqSdnBKZpeiC016qHPkHV6GIdxvwvzha0A3FjSP18wL0esFyNor88MLkY_fUHTb5u2rNvHxOUOMhf_Y3VWivR3V6MnoMYfy1cHWNA11G/s1600/pizzadantes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnLMk1EOckOYMCT1qWSJzC9zdjgrI-Qvt1iT8TqSdnBKZpeiC016qHPkHV6GIdxvwvzha0A3FjSP18wL0esFyNor88MLkY_fUHTb5u2rNvHxOUOMhf_Y3VWivR3V6MnoMYfy1cHWNA11G/s1600/pizzadantes.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Highlight:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQvSBhGbUHUHPfvsjyXpVKT-VB4SUlxtTuihDx2p2kPBLrePmkVfjZMTzM18E4Nrj241fJ5wOSJYOHODyOEGP5EhIr7stZN0Z-sn9xujpj64EksKRlRthmhrjQS7G2JzmjaxwUu4IpFCI/s1600/HAzel+sailboat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQvSBhGbUHUHPfvsjyXpVKT-VB4SUlxtTuihDx2p2kPBLrePmkVfjZMTzM18E4Nrj241fJ5wOSJYOHODyOEGP5EhIr7stZN0Z-sn9xujpj64EksKRlRthmhrjQS7G2JzmjaxwUu4IpFCI/s320/HAzel+sailboat1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hazel Hazel Hazel. This girl is getting into everything and growing up so fast. She has two adorable bottom teeth and crawls ev-ery-where. She is a cheeky little bugger and oh so much fun. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUhQTev48zORCTW4NlywT8W__onrVMRH1x8mmRw7boEpOuaOsVGEp0ANNmPuC7yREcS87-Pvlytu_XjUKW8Gv6E5I_eM1BpzNyYXSHbAVWQSNUzMvpge-b3ntfwwXU1zM2hE6NGDZmeeM/s1600/Hazel+6+months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUhQTev48zORCTW4NlywT8W__onrVMRH1x8mmRw7boEpOuaOsVGEp0ANNmPuC7yREcS87-Pvlytu_XjUKW8Gv6E5I_eM1BpzNyYXSHbAVWQSNUzMvpge-b3ntfwwXU1zM2hE6NGDZmeeM/s1600/Hazel+6+months.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Sunny days at the park:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJOxXEOxY3jXaQgAb2oU3hD_WXrCkV5m77vCMnd2ilULDLvg_-0jRyTujAYWHiuzP7HvPvP-LQE4lvnJz-nh0igM2Ght-v83I3qz2S83aP8TiVYaf0_lUtj0dPREq9y2_TBwLfdPlTiUb/s1600/Hazel+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJOxXEOxY3jXaQgAb2oU3hD_WXrCkV5m77vCMnd2ilULDLvg_-0jRyTujAYWHiuzP7HvPvP-LQE4lvnJz-nh0igM2Ght-v83I3qz2S83aP8TiVYaf0_lUtj0dPREq9y2_TBwLfdPlTiUb/s1600/Hazel+Park.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
She is a swinging fool too:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBd0G-976Lm97IsSjYs5FqR_ZBDLmvpvvspOFi9oV6iE4i-WGU971NWItWXK5I5U6iLrb4mBnRYxdmrdcqgdBc2NE3L79wiT1r0YFv6qUBZnJUMU5WsLXHw7tZdFFEBciRXsopV4YmkhE/s1600/hazel+swinging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBd0G-976Lm97IsSjYs5FqR_ZBDLmvpvvspOFi9oV6iE4i-WGU971NWItWXK5I5U6iLrb4mBnRYxdmrdcqgdBc2NE3L79wiT1r0YFv6qUBZnJUMU5WsLXHw7tZdFFEBciRXsopV4YmkhE/s1600/hazel+swinging.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A trip to the Wintergarden in Auckland Domain. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34YXAo8ompeTa-KQOb9gAk6mdDAAA7TPyoJAGimDUT9vlej0i49eZ_-EgyjGjU2NFSh688bWxKiwwJTjaLllQL7twUpYDX06zV3Eado4DijwwxbJ4PHRK-QO_Z7a9s6Mff9LIVfO3S3Ed/s1600/Hazel+Wintergarden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34YXAo8ompeTa-KQOb9gAk6mdDAAA7TPyoJAGimDUT9vlej0i49eZ_-EgyjGjU2NFSh688bWxKiwwJTjaLllQL7twUpYDX06zV3Eado4DijwwxbJ4PHRK-QO_Z7a9s6Mff9LIVfO3S3Ed/s1600/Hazel+Wintergarden.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
See you soon America!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYIj4f5r3V6YTnP6FH7FKvoFKPfqJ7RU64fkfhTK7qXuaWYy6Vl5tzqA-4cTIDR8DNoyVdMgw_X42XFNO49FBK7m7S8uKHCNczRUDmWqCGMml-v2lSd3o099XEwRBhmekWUttyULZUIizp/s1600/Hazel+dress.jpg" /></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-61576652955594916982013-06-09T13:56:00.000-07:002013-06-09T13:57:50.658-07:00S is for SurpriseThey say home is where the heart is, but after a recent trip home I say home is where I can dress like a homeless person and still feel good about myself. I realized this on my first morning back when I came to breakfast looking like Christmas meets 1996 and had a souvenir t-shirt baby. My vanity prevents me from publishing a picture of me in said outfit, but trust me it was fantastic. In that shabby no chic kind of way. So instead I'll just show you a picture of what a 5 month old baby looks like: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lg_ME_VmxWRDr_H3JhJbAsflQSAJIY2on4QvTDhgBrKZeGcE0t_n4q0iJMcnp3iqc1uFeNugLIx4VCo9H0nxMP6O-2lz7DQGvS-5xnbVAfZCpg5CaS1o7vFqpY-Gecun1pugfU3SI2LC/s1600/Hazel+5+months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lg_ME_VmxWRDr_H3JhJbAsflQSAJIY2on4QvTDhgBrKZeGcE0t_n4q0iJMcnp3iqc1uFeNugLIx4VCo9H0nxMP6O-2lz7DQGvS-5xnbVAfZCpg5CaS1o7vFqpY-Gecun1pugfU3SI2LC/s1600/Hazel+5+months.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It was so wonderful to be back. Hazel and I decided to surprise my mom for Mothers Day, which was a lot of fun and I'm quite impressed with myself that we pulled it off. I couldn't have done it without my brothers, who helped with the trickery. My Dad pulled a little surprise on me by showing up at the airport to greet us, which was super nice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0D_m2bGXdU3u6bdj18JzEkakqNEY2x8SCmy_DnqZACRAKzrxJ9yX5EwFpMAxD6GYTFFsAhQLjmuxRVFr47N4J5n30F0ZHfmoZJ5_UDI-vleCJiXEqkiDNh0wiDIlMC91iUdmDwWgLTq9v/s1600/Thumbsucker+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0D_m2bGXdU3u6bdj18JzEkakqNEY2x8SCmy_DnqZACRAKzrxJ9yX5EwFpMAxD6GYTFFsAhQLjmuxRVFr47N4J5n30F0ZHfmoZJ5_UDI-vleCJiXEqkiDNh0wiDIlMC91iUdmDwWgLTq9v/s320/Thumbsucker+%25289%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The trip was a little bit of a last minute decision as Adam was going to Vegas for work and I thought about being here alone and then had the brilliant idea to hitch a ride, so to speak, to the West Coast. And by hitch a ride, I mean purchase a pricey international fare like everyone else that lives abroad and wants to go home. It was totally worth it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29n4w0RR9aa5kGoviMFXxV2wVjuqDXQIBZ9ow-uVk44vWTBXQ7t4NB9qAJcNUtSUQW6rsVqU60mHWg4aBlDpKTINxFQaBpG_kkXS-_z72l2eeu5FIzbYvjrM3eZM7oAgU23j5yPezCvZ5/s1600/Hazel+&+Mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29n4w0RR9aa5kGoviMFXxV2wVjuqDXQIBZ9ow-uVk44vWTBXQ7t4NB9qAJcNUtSUQW6rsVqU60mHWg4aBlDpKTINxFQaBpG_kkXS-_z72l2eeu5FIzbYvjrM3eZM7oAgU23j5yPezCvZ5/s320/Hazel+&+Mom.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
Adam and I flew together to San Francisco, but I did the domestic legs and the return with Hazel on my own. I know, I know, flying internationally with a baby is on everyone's bucket list. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpCK_VJy0atdZ4HNSMalvBIaSb00sXCPfLHurXA0frn2QfQXs63t65CKLBs3CPllZlkQQ7FqThhBz8DX0pu9B53hcimTdXtdHlTZdWpDELzYflF02V0-PGTEiIrj0TstsHJEWR322kVvG/s1600/redeye.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpCK_VJy0atdZ4HNSMalvBIaSb00sXCPfLHurXA0frn2QfQXs63t65CKLBs3CPllZlkQQ7FqThhBz8DX0pu9B53hcimTdXtdHlTZdWpDELzYflF02V0-PGTEiIrj0TstsHJEWR322kVvG/s320/redeye.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I gotta give it up for Air New Zealand again though. They were awesome. We reserved a bassinet seat, which meant that our seats were in the bulkhead and right after takeoff the flight attendants installed Hazel's bassinet. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5bp5Pa4sozqtAMjZRDOahnerbSU7wvvgQfX3fOuLLUOxINH8-j44cwGVdXTT-U3jXS8wgbkuk2rbuNVWsC4EiNIzlgNDAWH0gLs6RVnQ_YI1cY5QwvkhRdgowiLoKXU_mETMoF3hNno8/s1600/bassinett.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5bp5Pa4sozqtAMjZRDOahnerbSU7wvvgQfX3fOuLLUOxINH8-j44cwGVdXTT-U3jXS8wgbkuk2rbuNVWsC4EiNIzlgNDAWH0gLs6RVnQ_YI1cY5QwvkhRdgowiLoKXU_mETMoF3hNno8/s320/bassinett.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It was great, mostly because she actually got to sleep which meant we got to sleep too. Convenient, as sleep has moved to the top of my favorite things to do list. Ok, who am I kidding sleep has always been one of my favorite things to do. The supply and demand ratio is just not in my favor these days so, it's at the extra top of the list.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RNDtDFZsZBbMXiqhpVtaol7GEKG8Z9ARDb37IiYpybwyW_UBZLIwAw-pXW_9Gv00nPgeZb0vj95XKB_no9IT_8hKl1AWhkE099mchHg1A85kWQQe-yGGXU1vvuKgnetOGQd6S-Lo9H_G/s1600/Thumbsucker+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RNDtDFZsZBbMXiqhpVtaol7GEKG8Z9ARDb37IiYpybwyW_UBZLIwAw-pXW_9Gv00nPgeZb0vj95XKB_no9IT_8hKl1AWhkE099mchHg1A85kWQQe-yGGXU1vvuKgnetOGQd6S-Lo9H_G/s320/Thumbsucker+%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Going from Air New Zealand to domestic in the US, though, is like going from first class to first arse. I fortunately had some nice people next to me and some helpful crew members. An example of helpful in this case would be giving me a plastic bag to put Hazel's clothes and my own in after Hazel had a massive poo explosion on me." Infant in arms" for 5 hours. Let's get this party started. Oh yeah, she just did. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zRerVrLo-4bzg-7XgqjR-vJNmdVJ27YbYoZnnrmeh92NFixkMy4j4whKueX6ieh64CYwgoq2FHPnLSKhz6R1TvYNSbK06zInmf6VgY11Vmm5mSTG_dwIkpU4fIlVTr0u2btPBaDIwtX2/s1600/smile.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4zRerVrLo-4bzg-7XgqjR-vJNmdVJ27YbYoZnnrmeh92NFixkMy4j4whKueX6ieh64CYwgoq2FHPnLSKhz6R1TvYNSbK06zInmf6VgY11Vmm5mSTG_dwIkpU4fIlVTr0u2btPBaDIwtX2/s320/smile.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
It really was great to be back. I got to see so many people I love from old friends to extended family members. I even got to introduce Hazel to her 102 year-old great grandmother on Adam's side. Everyone was ecstatic to meet and see the new baby, especially my niece and nephew.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3LDOZrfl3al5sWAovMcgOaDfFOOSxEdE49PnJL-XSp-hbU79kXsJLLzCWwOzFix8JiPkibvXFBhz0SszgkXWukrRx-3oh_jwUiC4YAQ2rH1JErpD0zs6Ol6k2PdOSICLW4hZV36NUWyih/s1600/Cousins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3LDOZrfl3al5sWAovMcgOaDfFOOSxEdE49PnJL-XSp-hbU79kXsJLLzCWwOzFix8JiPkibvXFBhz0SszgkXWukrRx-3oh_jwUiC4YAQ2rH1JErpD0zs6Ol6k2PdOSICLW4hZV36NUWyih/s1600/Cousins.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I stopped in SF briefly to catch up with friends. Man I miss those peeps. Apparently I was having too much fun to remember to take any pictures but imagine me surrounded by ladies I love and very happy. Being away from friends and family is one of the hardest things about living in a different country. Especially now that we have this little one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixp5uChRhFATiwkja_iBQJrwtAa1vuHw3yP1GeoZSYWDtiqRqeovbUk8pO2hSdTJOyjh3R0LxDpR8XEZYW6VLXJml0arvi2cGWR70cbdnd_5K8GwdQnlxOTWk_ZBx3ue79yng2p26Zu4of/s1600/flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixp5uChRhFATiwkja_iBQJrwtAa1vuHw3yP1GeoZSYWDtiqRqeovbUk8pO2hSdTJOyjh3R0LxDpR8XEZYW6VLXJml0arvi2cGWR70cbdnd_5K8GwdQnlxOTWk_ZBx3ue79yng2p26Zu4of/s320/flowers.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Going back to the States is a reminder in some ways of what we are missing and in other ways what we aren't. I was shocked at how over stimulating I found the airports and mall to be. I just kept thinking why are there so many shops and people everywhere and look at all the racks of clothing, this is surreal! That is the beauty of living in a different country, it gives you a new perspective. How sad if I was unchanged by this expat experience. <br />
<br />
Just the other day I was watching The Voice Australia and was delighted to learn that people on this side of the world apparently pronounce the word albino (you know the people that look like they need to get a tan but can't) as al-bean-o. As Americans we pronounce it al- buy-no. So the past few days I've gone around the house singing "you say albino, I say albeano....tomato, tomahto."<br />
<br />
Another thing that makes me happy we live in NZ is that stuff like this happens. A note on the door of our local Fish N Chips shop -<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3x-buCAKMd35n8C3PslLn9CUu0lBOnj-Fqms5314Ipcb1WMcbAX_br_zT9Dfia6ABfyfL2rbCGIQ77dVIvFE-0wN3BTa6Tp0PzltvnFLX6-DCIW4rJE2BlMBB3t50m5tv-991vPkiO9C/s1600/mairangi++bay+fisheries+pic+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3x-buCAKMd35n8C3PslLn9CUu0lBOnj-Fqms5314Ipcb1WMcbAX_br_zT9Dfia6ABfyfL2rbCGIQ77dVIvFE-0wN3BTa6Tp0PzltvnFLX6-DCIW4rJE2BlMBB3t50m5tv-991vPkiO9C/s1600/mairangi++bay+fisheries+pic+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Anyway, point is I did love being home, but I also loved coming back here to New Zealand. Even if it meant returning to winter. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLR-F1pqHTbk8zJixusHs9ZqMp9-3M-KgVKTRJs-lnE6pQMorbMuTp0YRWxOeQixsFD7kLMDMDlzPTPac4dqE8xVg-1lrDtQ9xPuPwsAf1acKCOR2Ix84X20b6FhNynAFthvdPBdtg2Jla/s1600/Hazel+winter+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLR-F1pqHTbk8zJixusHs9ZqMp9-3M-KgVKTRJs-lnE6pQMorbMuTp0YRWxOeQixsFD7kLMDMDlzPTPac4dqE8xVg-1lrDtQ9xPuPwsAf1acKCOR2Ix84X20b6FhNynAFthvdPBdtg2Jla/s320/Hazel+winter+hat.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
<br />
You might remember that Kiwis aren't too big on central air and heating so it's back to long johns and nights by the fire. How cold does it get you might wonder. That I can't tell you, you'll have to check your farmers almanac for those kind of details, but I'll tell you it's cold enough for me to lay awake the other night wondering if they make a giant flannel onesize for adults. Seriously this kept me up for a solid ten minutes . Hey don't blame me for trying to stay warm and keep the flame in my post baby marriage alive. <br />
<br />
Hazel is doing well and while the trip home was great the transition back has been rough. Holy guacamole that baby had some jet lag. That plus teething at the same time. I'm still waiting for a bartender to come up with a drink especially for such an occasion. The show must go on though. And thank goodness the show recently had a 3 day weekend. It was the Queen's Birthday and we celebrated by ferrying over to Waiheke Island for the day. Waiheke is beyond picturesque and packed with tons of vineyards, rolling hills, and beautiful beaches. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcVWKPOtxonhgk6W5eob_A5pkOFQy6zNv2K3yePTZ2s9CntxEo_1FzvDDbKL0oazB7I8rds7qWf5miWtxmnH2QyJeg7EfJ-m4xe8-gWXq2_MPoTlL1ERycbQL1k_ltNJX8yQ_5Q92euk0/s1600/poderi+crisci.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcVWKPOtxonhgk6W5eob_A5pkOFQy6zNv2K3yePTZ2s9CntxEo_1FzvDDbKL0oazB7I8rds7qWf5miWtxmnH2QyJeg7EfJ-m4xe8-gWXq2_MPoTlL1ERycbQL1k_ltNJX8yQ_5Q92euk0/s320/poderi+crisci.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We met up with our good friends, Andrew and Adrienne, for a little last hurrah. Unfortunately for us they are moving back to Canada. We had lunch at Poderi Crisci, a delightful winery and restaurant that temporarily makes you feel like you are in Italy, instead of the beautiful wine island in the middle of New Zealand that you are actually on. We did the "Italian Long Lunch" which as the name implies was long, but it was also incredibly delicious and filled with many courses and yummy wine. If you are a local it is a must do. Speaking of all this delicious food, Hazel recently had her first taste of the good life. Mmm rice cereal. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEG3qOesqCSM7HK2nsIpgC2cObillBfckZUjnt0Uev7JemZllYLU0gzquiniQcta2UV9gXG8PbMmRntSts0NGVejqIocYlxQo5wPAFhRQN3siHyrheE8Pnspd87Se68RWewDg5owBTxTo/s1600/first+food.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEG3qOesqCSM7HK2nsIpgC2cObillBfckZUjnt0Uev7JemZllYLU0gzquiniQcta2UV9gXG8PbMmRntSts0NGVejqIocYlxQo5wPAFhRQN3siHyrheE8Pnspd87Se68RWewDg5owBTxTo/s320/first+food.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This new role of mother is still something I'm figuring out. It's kind of a weird yet wonderful club to be apart of. Thankfully, the actual mothering part comes very natural to me. It's funny, though, if you had told me a few years back I would be living in New Zealand and a stay at home mom making her own baby food I probably would have laughed. Life is funny that way. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaaY6WXj15CVVdIz1m27coXmpowkCpOg8TEAIn6sgWFlPeAY76PhlCsN9spsDcV3dt7PB1xGShre-Gh75MLSQ47DxAhf5r8Bx_9yhM40ShOuMC7dhWSKEwUzrLyK238BTS-Zv-u2p0mdQL/s1600/dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaaY6WXj15CVVdIz1m27coXmpowkCpOg8TEAIn6sgWFlPeAY76PhlCsN9spsDcV3dt7PB1xGShre-Gh75MLSQ47DxAhf5r8Bx_9yhM40ShOuMC7dhWSKEwUzrLyK238BTS-Zv-u2p0mdQL/s320/dress.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Life is good in that way too. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldQbG-3IwyZFG8cr0yndYrm2UFWG5fS3-kCjUIvZx7yPkzaaG7vwiKOUQ19ZVL9PMW5MO0-ghZ5QDI9fjGvRyWHVmGKaBOB4gnWWd4vaJXCHgeLtffmwNLsHvMBvkaRyXyzsK_iE1qVP7/s1600/Castor+Bay+Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldQbG-3IwyZFG8cr0yndYrm2UFWG5fS3-kCjUIvZx7yPkzaaG7vwiKOUQ19ZVL9PMW5MO0-ghZ5QDI9fjGvRyWHVmGKaBOB4gnWWd4vaJXCHgeLtffmwNLsHvMBvkaRyXyzsK_iE1qVP7/s1600/Castor+Bay+Beach.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Just a place I enjoyed my coffee the other morning. How did I ever get so lucky to live in this paradise?!</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-2123713792948021442013-04-23T14:10:00.000-07:002013-04-23T15:47:30.294-07:00Up All Night<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfS_tDckAo5o1xIl8uutPfcLQEBJZOURBSaJ6SHUyhHTfWzNVtX-ltJ8fRbFmQKNzIKZjWx5q3fV3Z0AJAvhnbvSgtqYfRBIpOpNAHV9f0-Ri7hm98IRoRhXlZCWKjGr01AkkPZzVzr_7/s1600/DSC00253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfS_tDckAo5o1xIl8uutPfcLQEBJZOURBSaJ6SHUyhHTfWzNVtX-ltJ8fRbFmQKNzIKZjWx5q3fV3Z0AJAvhnbvSgtqYfRBIpOpNAHV9f0-Ri7hm98IRoRhXlZCWKjGr01AkkPZzVzr_7/s320/DSC00253.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Well it's really hard to get any writing done with this little live doll around that I'm taking care of. But how can I resist that face? I'd trade in my Cabbage Patch any day for her, although Hazel would probably go for more on the black market. <br />
<br />
Ahh motherhood, our little babe is already almost 4 months old. Everyone says it goes by so fast and it really does. We have had so many visitors since she was born but everyone wants to meet the new grandbaby and I can't blame 'em. Even my friend Stephanie came all the way from the States to see us and do some New Zealandy type things like fly fish and mountain bike. While she was here we took Hazel on her first plane ride and went down to Queenstown over Easter Weekend. We had been there before but the view never gets old.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLosihB-awfKYYqWtoNCgURm-RG2OQiSKfTo_fFpZl_bmmCjJvxN3NpyWBXyZ9zssmlvJsjhEib6OGOu8DLOa7JUrDLxhCa_rBIBgoL-Uio7moNMxxiMojFMfIiVaubjpBKl1qrNNmGyj/s1600/queenstown+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLosihB-awfKYYqWtoNCgURm-RG2OQiSKfTo_fFpZl_bmmCjJvxN3NpyWBXyZ9zssmlvJsjhEib6OGOu8DLOa7JUrDLxhCa_rBIBgoL-Uio7moNMxxiMojFMfIiVaubjpBKl1qrNNmGyj/s1600/queenstown+family.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hazel enjoyed her new surroundings too:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7koDMw6ZaL6vomxvrFvgYNGPFq8UdzNJHPclyfHSFpN9AYAa9lci0bDsfBZTlRaB58GdSanVdnCdJvgIx0r9ABCT3HDQy9QiIWsHI4yhvz_O8vsgIMlg6VfIked296b6XsIbHfifwJKz/s1600/DSC00202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7koDMw6ZaL6vomxvrFvgYNGPFq8UdzNJHPclyfHSFpN9AYAa9lci0bDsfBZTlRaB58GdSanVdnCdJvgIx0r9ABCT3HDQy9QiIWsHI4yhvz_O8vsgIMlg6VfIked296b6XsIbHfifwJKz/s320/DSC00202.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh and by the way, in New Zealand you get the Friday before and the Monday after Easter off. Number of National Holidays (12) still sits way on top of my reasons why NZ is a great place to live list. And the fact that things like this happen.....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UUHwvhVVqkXJk_fUsqQ0HIKPO_qgXLBdVe6Fw7JAJpfmNYGWcmtmbCJCOtU2uO5aeI9HRWRFcrFDr2I6eGqkq4tJsLRDCJHdVZ180tm_DgHQBEhw9VUBaWcgTRTBQB2gt5IHoUHD_UXK/s1600/confederate+flag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UUHwvhVVqkXJk_fUsqQ0HIKPO_qgXLBdVe6Fw7JAJpfmNYGWcmtmbCJCOtU2uO5aeI9HRWRFcrFDr2I6eGqkq4tJsLRDCJHdVZ180tm_DgHQBEhw9VUBaWcgTRTBQB2gt5IHoUHD_UXK/s1600/confederate+flag.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Yes that is a Confederate flag flying at Adam's work lunch. How is possible? I'll tell you. So once a month different departments host a lunch with a different theme and this particular week's theme was Western/American BBQ. According to the department host, the party store was out of American flags but did have one of these. What?! <br />
<br />
This is hilarious and wrong on so many levels. I keep picturing the New Zealand sales clerk ordering the Confederate flag, " yes I'm going to need two more of SKU #kkk..." You can only imagine Adam's surprise when he walked into the conference room to grab a quick bite. We really couldn't stop laughing at this one, mostly because we knew the majority of Kiwis wouldn't understand the symbolism or controversy around it making the whole thing that much more hilarious and ridiculous. Cue Hank Williams Jr. And no I don't know if that is the person's real hair or they are wearing a mullet wig.<br />
<br />
But I digress, back to Hazel's maiden voyage. We rented a fabulous bach in Arrowtown, a quaint village 20 mins outside of Queenstown. Steph and I have been friends since 6th grade. Now that's some history or should I say herstory. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yexZoU_rMcqnBu7C5hAV0XN3PF8UDEqiP779MqQAakXFxht-TRBzDTkxmb5o4OOLJbvwEWQv-vhpWPCZPS5fNqH0jgb0UBjSf9ho5I4O4_ZRPucFUgqcGw-n-cgUsJ2AKwral1C9Ju2X/s1600/Stephanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yexZoU_rMcqnBu7C5hAV0XN3PF8UDEqiP779MqQAakXFxht-TRBzDTkxmb5o4OOLJbvwEWQv-vhpWPCZPS5fNqH0jgb0UBjSf9ho5I4O4_ZRPucFUgqcGw-n-cgUsJ2AKwral1C9Ju2X/s1600/Stephanie.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It was minutes away from Lake Hayes, a real stunner if I do say so myself. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKOkCylOMNMMt0fFae5k9mcrxX97-Vd0vvhedPpdGBZmGZJlgEiiJii24-T2xGFMMGiNujk6LeVhdZQAXshaNLXlpZr4ai8O_HmLBudpkm91-OP4jShBjN3u-_vrrJFd9gyWF-tfJSl1n/s1600/DSC00241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKOkCylOMNMMt0fFae5k9mcrxX97-Vd0vvhedPpdGBZmGZJlgEiiJii24-T2xGFMMGiNujk6LeVhdZQAXshaNLXlpZr4ai8O_HmLBudpkm91-OP4jShBjN3u-_vrrJFd9gyWF-tfJSl1n/s320/DSC00241.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There is a great loop all the way around it that you can do:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdVkbhD2Ke4l6GsM84k9HawmsGhoqXeOB9FfGxMbi9cBPD-gykKWDVYvpQtUU8KfTEiVtqHPLa_I-u2YmXYDoAfgzFVIZ2ARkPP7gehPus568_GNHNNjVaIVEnqjgsC_8QgMmsagVdGZq/s1600/Lake+Hayes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdVkbhD2Ke4l6GsM84k9HawmsGhoqXeOB9FfGxMbi9cBPD-gykKWDVYvpQtUU8KfTEiVtqHPLa_I-u2YmXYDoAfgzFVIZ2ARkPP7gehPus568_GNHNNjVaIVEnqjgsC_8QgMmsagVdGZq/s320/Lake+Hayes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Our place was also close to Lake Wanaka, another real looker as far as lakes go. I was loving that it was right next to Central Otago wine region too, which makes some of our favorite Pinots. We had lunch at Amisfield Vineyard and Adam was in charge of feeding Hazel that afternoon so I could imbibe pre-baby style. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Gtc_dswufW6xTFceCeHdFmEMRDVptYieWFfSlx-OtRRZ59OXC3fl3Nky6QabGla9Z4_tPbhkLYzltML8Yo2Uh5Bmb3nJ8sLI0VPEOxnG-Iu7MPiUqnOl3WZ_1qfjgCd9e8O2Y7XQwp2i/s1600/Adam+feeding+Hazel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Gtc_dswufW6xTFceCeHdFmEMRDVptYieWFfSlx-OtRRZ59OXC3fl3Nky6QabGla9Z4_tPbhkLYzltML8Yo2Uh5Bmb3nJ8sLI0VPEOxnG-Iu7MPiUqnOl3WZ_1qfjgCd9e8O2Y7XQwp2i/s1600/Adam+feeding+Hazel.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Sometimes it's nice to just to enjoy a drink or three and not worry about how it affects your bloodstream and relax knowing you're not going to have to whip your boobs out in public. It really was a great trip. Hazel was a dream on the plane and while travelling with a baby is a little more work it is definitely doable. Although I did miss flipping through magazines instead of just reading the safety card. I will give a shout out to Air New Zealand who produces the only safety videos I've ever seen that are actually fun and entertaining to watch. I think it reflects Kiwi culture, they never take themselves too seriously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77h5_DXQ6uZJtgwcH62hMvmmMBNM7jP8NclPFTt6UcL2owjiM2h5LOzL_7LE0BCUzjjVqgQtJtz1BH8Jjp3qXvseUDRfiFWPsSzLfHU2zdFXbS1qpVHVBvwaYsw53mpUd5uf1bPfIkmx0/s1600/Air+new+zealand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77h5_DXQ6uZJtgwcH62hMvmmMBNM7jP8NclPFTt6UcL2owjiM2h5LOzL_7LE0BCUzjjVqgQtJtz1BH8Jjp3qXvseUDRfiFWPsSzLfHU2zdFXbS1qpVHVBvwaYsw53mpUd5uf1bPfIkmx0/s1600/Air+new+zealand.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It felt good to know we could still get away and that our life, even though totally different with a baby, could still go on in some ways as it did before. Being a mamma is tiring though. The constant out pour of energy caring for another being, whew. Calgon take me away. Hazel bright eyed and not affected by my tiredness:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hQGQIVoJymTenwqqomMwcLy9S1nrjyPEwxKZ5P151DdzhcUboxAWYjfzPIioB08FiLd2ONROvUH4k0BhcVYceznm6UzaqZffOnadZj0LWl829w7O-TPRUKeTJxPW8n5pPGPQaZDLERrg/s1600/Hazel+Anchor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hQGQIVoJymTenwqqomMwcLy9S1nrjyPEwxKZ5P151DdzhcUboxAWYjfzPIioB08FiLd2ONROvUH4k0BhcVYceznm6UzaqZffOnadZj0LWl829w7O-TPRUKeTJxPW8n5pPGPQaZDLERrg/s1600/Hazel+Anchor.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Speaking of, when someone says they are tired don't respond with, " oh yes, you look tired." Everyone knows that's code for crap. I don't need you to confirm what I just saw ten minutes ago when I looked in the mirror before I left the house. Not that that has ever happened to me, that's just my friendly advice. </div>
<br />
That and stop wearing maternity clothes after you have the baby. Even after I could fit into my old clothes, I had to ween myself off a few items that were just so comfy that I thought I could get away with looking "easy and comfortable." I learned the tough way when I went to the spa sporting a dress I wore throughout my pregnancy and the therapist asked "so did you have the baby? " HA. Yes I did and here she is:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9qoz-s6vZ3DY0rT8CYrR-fx9B9pgI5njyUcouNc6b_Qtl755NvIbl79KPkDs4eAfB-MoAA479gVq-VO0pYEqwMBk5c2zY4wtzSZzWkJSrmMlV0xN2Gbvt5pnjWCr5zSXPA0XPMrnzDN_/s1600/Hazel+Bunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9qoz-s6vZ3DY0rT8CYrR-fx9B9pgI5njyUcouNc6b_Qtl755NvIbl79KPkDs4eAfB-MoAA479gVq-VO0pYEqwMBk5c2zY4wtzSZzWkJSrmMlV0xN2Gbvt5pnjWCr5zSXPA0XPMrnzDN_/s1600/Hazel+Bunny.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A lot of this baby stuff is trial by fire. What seems like a good idea initially may not always turn out to be. Like when I thought it would be fun to take Hazel to a yoga class at 6 weeks old . Hey I thought I love yoga and I love my baby why not combine the two. Yeah, not so much. Hazel slept the entire time and as much as I want to hear your baby cry while I'm in downward dog....it's not for me. I told Adam about it and he said, "Oh I thought that sounded awful when you mentioned you were going to do it." Not that I would have listened. Now I do yoga the old fashion way - alone. <br />
<br />
What is fun though is Wriggle and Rhyme at the local library:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcDUtzuk-ti3oMpoAW6XR6uLcnWksZns3fcrODlpgnM4GGPFsB99vhNqkmjqUE9omPUdlDjCyqyBbe41zuxhR7nDey2Ygyru84i4yJVL271tk6xNqDImfVlXCHPP_Ucx_3TaZy0x4S8jh_/s1600/Wriggle+and+Rhyme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcDUtzuk-ti3oMpoAW6XR6uLcnWksZns3fcrODlpgnM4GGPFsB99vhNqkmjqUE9omPUdlDjCyqyBbe41zuxhR7nDey2Ygyru84i4yJVL271tk6xNqDImfVlXCHPP_Ucx_3TaZy0x4S8jh_/s320/Wriggle+and+Rhyme.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
I continue to be impressed with the resources New Zealand has for new parents. Most impressive is Plunket, which is "New Zealand's largest provider of support services for the development, health, and well being of children under 5." Thank me if this is ever a Jeopardy question or perhaps you're more of a Cash Cab kind of guy or gal. At any rate Plunket is amazing. You can do all sorts of stuff through them - hire a car seat for crazy cheap, get help with your baby's feeding or sleeping at their Family Centre, freaking take your own nap at their Family Centre (for real they have beds), they also have Plunket nurses that are assigned to you that check in with you regularly, and they even offer coffee groups. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9anWUgjvSaaRnzYO_zmvv3MRfW_hBBmjrP7ArI35DM9DrgCpGUahAn9cPc1reCxRySkxhp66hPfjGa9U_GVTaKqYimkD-jgs_dN2l152lDizpQg_NCG_E0IYMV9oLRDo5Ig1gbxdKBZL/s1600/DSC00180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9anWUgjvSaaRnzYO_zmvv3MRfW_hBBmjrP7ArI35DM9DrgCpGUahAn9cPc1reCxRySkxhp66hPfjGa9U_GVTaKqYimkD-jgs_dN2l152lDizpQg_NCG_E0IYMV9oLRDo5Ig1gbxdKBZL/s320/DSC00180.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A coffee group here basically just means a mothers group. I joined one through Plunket and the one thing almost all of us had in common was that none of us were from NZ or had our family here. The first time I went it was like a little UN meeting - Liberia, Argentina, Scotland, India, and Australia were all represented. It's an amazing resource to have and it's all free. I'm also in another coffee group, which is composed of women from my antenatal class. So while I miss my friends and family like crazy, I do have lots of nice first time moms to hang with. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMxbgE7oknROrImYG7UP5pcOx-BKrh5-Gzm0MbRlvirQJLnSQk9cI10FBhgC02C4UTTJJhZM9YYOsLs80gBM2WJTjh9hyphenhyphenh92WWyaT9QiEbwxqMOhu4SL0WmEsjvWfWQ5hqlGOMhVzOGxM/s1600/Katie+35th+Bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMxbgE7oknROrImYG7UP5pcOx-BKrh5-Gzm0MbRlvirQJLnSQk9cI10FBhgC02C4UTTJJhZM9YYOsLs80gBM2WJTjh9hyphenhyphenh92WWyaT9QiEbwxqMOhu4SL0WmEsjvWfWQ5hqlGOMhVzOGxM/s1600/Katie+35th+Bday.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And share stories with. Such as when Hazel and I went into to see Adam at work and she managed to do a poo waterfall out of her pants and onto the office carpet. Well I guess I'm that person now that talks about my kid's poop. I have arrived. </div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-89619059380696594022013-02-19T11:25:00.001-08:002013-02-19T11:25:29.572-08:00Welcome to the World: Hazel Kathleen Wolf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4_xMVp-2rceX08O_NKMjTLp6-wc1JiJ9eY2Vz7cAUI49lieESrBpJzqOAM3WDKp75kkzw4OU8NlwIU7XElyTxMQunylqJ5K1nVZycQ7TEjp1WrywyL_0-7PpQ9oiuiW1HQpxjaqy5weo/s1600/Hazel+5+weeks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4_xMVp-2rceX08O_NKMjTLp6-wc1JiJ9eY2Vz7cAUI49lieESrBpJzqOAM3WDKp75kkzw4OU8NlwIU7XElyTxMQunylqJ5K1nVZycQ7TEjp1WrywyL_0-7PpQ9oiuiW1HQpxjaqy5weo/s320/Hazel+5+weeks.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Our not so little bundle of joy finally arrived on Jan 5th, 2013 at 5:12 am weighing 8lbs, 14oz and 19.29 inches long. She was fifteen days late, but right on schedule I'm sure if you ask her. Unfortunately she hasn't learned to talk yet and chooses to communicate through leaking water from her eyes while at the same time projecting a loud noise from her mouth. Apparently my womb is a pretty sweet place to hangout, but thank goodness she finally decided to join us on the outside. We love her oh so much! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ52n9x8KelTvykx3BnUyv79O9ZQeSP33mNvR6_0oYlfUbihbI8gHC6iAlqzollNF_gkeLkDjWH9rmBv-aJxoNZ66zUdhqYJfRoFAnvXzzGFuEbEdlsPzdUXStm-oXNj0sxuLzeosNts-l/s1600/Hazel+hospital.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ52n9x8KelTvykx3BnUyv79O9ZQeSP33mNvR6_0oYlfUbihbI8gHC6iAlqzollNF_gkeLkDjWH9rmBv-aJxoNZ66zUdhqYJfRoFAnvXzzGFuEbEdlsPzdUXStm-oXNj0sxuLzeosNts-l/s1600/Hazel+hospital.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll save all the details of my labor and delivery for my tell all book, but the highlights include being in a shared assessment room for two days prior to giving birth and at one point having the woman next to me go into actual labor. Uh hello can't you see that I'm trying to watch an entire season of Revenge on my computer while I wait to have my own baby? She never got the memo but my time finally came and it all ended successfully. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around how I managed to push an almost 9lb baby out of me epidural free but it was something I wanted to do for a variety of reasons and well, now I know. Man and I thought giving up bread for that one month back in 2009 was hard. <br />
<br />
One of the pluses of Hazel being so late is that my Mom got to be here for the birth. It was wonderful to have her in NZ for two weeks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFWYSPe147qkqMON3kbf-PxjhNYb2xcCehum1efHZAcldoOFkgE_qxzqaa_EEgBNxpTBwoqUBPN6pHvLW26WWDgq7Z1lUTtpXhBUvYMJMb0-Un1EvSrmgkEpuyrd4M0Z0GgfMVIusA-6_/s1600/katie+rita+&+hazel+1+week+old.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFWYSPe147qkqMON3kbf-PxjhNYb2xcCehum1efHZAcldoOFkgE_qxzqaa_EEgBNxpTBwoqUBPN6pHvLW26WWDgq7Z1lUTtpXhBUvYMJMb0-Un1EvSrmgkEpuyrd4M0Z0GgfMVIusA-6_/s1600/katie+rita+&+hazel+1+week+old.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Although I've never had a baby anywhere else, I can say that New Zealand is an amazing place to bring a new life into the world. Just a couple hours after having Hazel, I was out of the hospital and on my way to the Wakworth Birthing Centre. In the words of Borat, "Wow wow wee waa." This place was incredible. I wanted to minimize my time in the hospital for reasons like - they smell weird, have crappy sheets, and people die there. So a Birthing Centre in the country seemed like a much better option as a place to recover. And boy was it ever.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwxGuH6_cg5xMlghkY6eI3In6CMEm2QNyNpnXVfEIfWDyB7n5pBZaIXYgoyGpv7j-fqtT7_WyD4_ObXxP2YnN0acNQ3bQL6rd26iSSBjsIr3mhUJeVJfVqTZugDIsejCnjeAKdZhaw6-R/s1600/Hazel+1+day+old.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwxGuH6_cg5xMlghkY6eI3In6CMEm2QNyNpnXVfEIfWDyB7n5pBZaIXYgoyGpv7j-fqtT7_WyD4_ObXxP2YnN0acNQ3bQL6rd26iSSBjsIr3mhUJeVJfVqTZugDIsejCnjeAKdZhaw6-R/s1600/Hazel+1+day+old.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Imagine a little bed and breakfast in a beautiful setting that was tailored for new mums and babies. I was aptly assigned the Kiwi room. This place had round the clock midwives, provided everything you need from nappies to wipes, all of your meals, and even baby clothes and blankets that they washed for you. I spent 4 nights there and got so much support and help that was priceless. They don't want to send you home until your feel comfortable when it comes to feeding and all the other baby basics. I can only imagine how much more confident and prepared new parents would feel if this kind of support was offered in every country. Oh and did I mention it was all free?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRT6LQ_JGea-9EWpC6a8xqbYj0IahV7Eb1AJpe9R_UrugocitM4WvuOFOKozbsHX9lpzbsQXivcNx7RIhjjOEha0jsKqOloZMPSHD_rh2kvU5uV37naIcOg3V8esVlFsgucdJYzLg1jEh/s1600/hazel+and+katie+KIWI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRT6LQ_JGea-9EWpC6a8xqbYj0IahV7Eb1AJpe9R_UrugocitM4WvuOFOKozbsHX9lpzbsQXivcNx7RIhjjOEha0jsKqOloZMPSHD_rh2kvU5uV37naIcOg3V8esVlFsgucdJYzLg1jEh/s1600/hazel+and+katie+KIWI.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
But alas we couldn't stay forever so home we are. Despite making noises that sound like a baby Gremlin being hatched, she is pretty cute and looks good in a variety of colors so we've decided to keep her. Midwives here make home visits for 6 weeks after your baby is born. That's been wonderful and at times humorous, like when it was time to weigh Hazel and my midwife says, "I do things kinda old school," then this happens:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM431iGolEd1CK0Cct8g2h1iCkfZMDzeNk8q4tJfZoqnvWreRBPc_u0SohBb6gWcKjaevVjytsn01-Yefw7LpunuZaCfsfC-R6C6cGmg9MNdCp2r1lM_YAQ031XpEko15va1dXTFay3RD/s1600/hazel+weigh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM431iGolEd1CK0Cct8g2h1iCkfZMDzeNk8q4tJfZoqnvWreRBPc_u0SohBb6gWcKjaevVjytsn01-Yefw7LpunuZaCfsfC-R6C6cGmg9MNdCp2r1lM_YAQ031XpEko15va1dXTFay3RD/s1600/hazel+weigh.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9e33147TqZmc6desMX0TAWlrZsopoRXSMGUvlK2f_NlkYT9RGTsbNErNSVF9Snboq0bvXBl7PgVNCUzEfjH_q7V83y4dmI8eZFwLKZpKFggOeiZ_cKmebLh4LfrvPv3Dhgkx_yR9sgJSb/s1600/hazel+weigh2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9e33147TqZmc6desMX0TAWlrZsopoRXSMGUvlK2f_NlkYT9RGTsbNErNSVF9Snboq0bvXBl7PgVNCUzEfjH_q7V83y4dmI8eZFwLKZpKFggOeiZ_cKmebLh4LfrvPv3Dhgkx_yR9sgJSb/s1600/hazel+weigh2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Weighed in a bag. Absolutely brilliant.<br />
<br />
What can I say about being a new mother? It is like new love except you skip the stage where the other person doesn't want to pass gas in front of you. I find Hazel to be mesmerizing, magical, and the whole thing miraculous. However, the day to day can be monotonous and make you understand why sleep deprivation is used as a torture technique. The whole making babies cute was a brilliant idea because somehow it makes the sleepless nights and high pitched screams seem laughable. I mean if babies were ugly, forget it. Thankfully that's not the world we live in. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7E-p-w2C7h7orCd4YDYQ6e2yoJoHuNC2xld3W2HujZQxWyBVq_sxhe-wrDl_MWbgdy-bfLBTeZbunfpQJeH7WvJFd1267R3GJYwY3iM3Up4wenrqXMFIdb9yq7lEM1ORc_K1GqjnjCqI/s1600/hazel+and+katie+cuddle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7E-p-w2C7h7orCd4YDYQ6e2yoJoHuNC2xld3W2HujZQxWyBVq_sxhe-wrDl_MWbgdy-bfLBTeZbunfpQJeH7WvJFd1267R3GJYwY3iM3Up4wenrqXMFIdb9yq7lEM1ORc_K1GqjnjCqI/s1600/hazel+and+katie+cuddle.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Parenthood is a funny thing. No more not washing a shirt because it passes my stringent BO test. I can be sure it will be a one time only wear, as I can guarantee I will have a stain of some sort on me by the end of the day. And I'm pretty sure my cool factor dropped dramatically as soon as she was born, evidenced by a comment I recently made. We were watching the X games and they flashed to the crowd. Everyone were jammed together, listening to the DJ spinning, and looked to be be having a great time. All I could say was, "I hope there's not a natural disaster or an emergency because there would be a stampede if there was, mmm mmm not safe at all." <br />
<br />
Adam just looked at me like who are you. I swear a month ago I would have seen the same scene and said that looks fun and think nothing of it. Everything now is a potential danger, a potential inappropriate clothing choice, a potential street leading my baby girl to tattoo city and tour buses. I've not even a worrier by nature but the shifts my brain made almost instantly upon becoming a mother are incredible.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFPPYWxFr6faJIA2f6GLvJQPmbVHYFPvcyrAMLq9plW5PFisaNWO_g47oW7kivKk44-wQ4tsH1vaSnnASq_3yF1gUrWtDbb8vIRrpPY0WqnSH0nMrG8KrnQoD4ojsSDM1T6ijME3BR8wSc/s1600/hazel+yawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFPPYWxFr6faJIA2f6GLvJQPmbVHYFPvcyrAMLq9plW5PFisaNWO_g47oW7kivKk44-wQ4tsH1vaSnnASq_3yF1gUrWtDbb8vIRrpPY0WqnSH0nMrG8KrnQoD4ojsSDM1T6ijME3BR8wSc/s320/hazel+yawn.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
It's an exciting journey we've started and I really do feel so blessed that we have a beautiful, healthy baby girl to share our lives with. The past month has been some of the longest days and fastest weeks of my life. Here's a few more shots of Hazel during her first six weeks of life, including a great visit with my Dad who also came from the US to visit:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkrDAeobUvrjRtptuSXEEyGdrJC1BjwCfiY8TSkbNAmbRAJGd2cV3Xh4F-VWbiaRPQEHcTuTMw4W5HFhDzwJra4JhXL9fDC1wGpr_2upfvXZXO3l7qcofJ4gQnuE1pSoSFQBK6MbdhVbnB/s1600/hazel+and+dad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkrDAeobUvrjRtptuSXEEyGdrJC1BjwCfiY8TSkbNAmbRAJGd2cV3Xh4F-VWbiaRPQEHcTuTMw4W5HFhDzwJra4JhXL9fDC1wGpr_2upfvXZXO3l7qcofJ4gQnuE1pSoSFQBK6MbdhVbnB/s320/hazel+and+dad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQMlER4dFZr6MeNaPqZ8GGrGrHpiZtUT0jTWRojwVdPuYteYX9XiBTAooUGl_aGgJEKdK4wSZjw8Xg2fzIXqrPM33nk693k6zzJ5H7Il3phiZi4MZZ_GYqJsrJSdWXPMd4awP1GLo0KM8/s1600/Hazel+rattle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQMlER4dFZr6MeNaPqZ8GGrGrHpiZtUT0jTWRojwVdPuYteYX9XiBTAooUGl_aGgJEKdK4wSZjw8Xg2fzIXqrPM33nk693k6zzJ5H7Il3phiZi4MZZ_GYqJsrJSdWXPMd4awP1GLo0KM8/s1600/Hazel+rattle.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SKrtx6G-JlwkmCPMSdR961YhHWWFuxNLqK1wSvTn_Dtc_zCABYgirfi8Htn-uSsjDctFP3CiGVcgTijwxTo-fhAdaUALS5tYeMRgBxqVrqAI0PR5ZXG5-t_cT2sP6rIYIHerSINf_q41/s1600/hazel+coffee+run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SKrtx6G-JlwkmCPMSdR961YhHWWFuxNLqK1wSvTn_Dtc_zCABYgirfi8Htn-uSsjDctFP3CiGVcgTijwxTo-fhAdaUALS5tYeMRgBxqVrqAI0PR5ZXG5-t_cT2sP6rIYIHerSINf_q41/s1600/hazel+coffee+run.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNW9G8ID8X_gCm3knTmZKtSGue9i8EZxzR_Dux7E7NCJ2aec-xXBNfZVKL7eT5qmxSW7iUPIP92voD9TDSG5Qwrrynq1_PrWSdOQxajY_Q0vQRR-ds-DbjwvgIDaScM0Z2HIj0dUOfILj/s1600/hazel+and+adam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNW9G8ID8X_gCm3knTmZKtSGue9i8EZxzR_Dux7E7NCJ2aec-xXBNfZVKL7eT5qmxSW7iUPIP92voD9TDSG5Qwrrynq1_PrWSdOQxajY_Q0vQRR-ds-DbjwvgIDaScM0Z2HIj0dUOfILj/s1600/hazel+and+adam.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As I start this new chapter I'm reminded of Tina Fey's, A Mother's Prayer for Her Child: <br />
<br />
<em>First, Lord: No tattoos. May neither Chinese symbol for truth nor Winnie-the-Pooh holding the FSU logo stain her tender haunches.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>May she be Beautiful but not Damaged, for it’s the Damage that draws the creepy soccer coach’s eye, not the Beauty.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>When the Crystal Meth is offered, May she remember the parents who cut her grapes in half And stick with Beer.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Guide her, protect her</em><br />
<em>When crossing the street, stepping onto boats, swimming in the ocean, swimming in pools, walking near pools, standing on the subway platform, crossing 86th Street, stepping off of boats, using mall restrooms, getting on and off escalators, driving on country roads while arguing, leaning on large windows, walking in parking lots, riding Ferris wheels, roller-coasters, log flumes, or anything called “Hell Drop,” “Tower of Torture,” or “The Death Spiral Rock ‘N Zero G Roll featuring Aerosmith,” and standing on any kind of balcony ever, anywhere, at any age.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Lead her away from Acting but not all the way to Finance. Something where she can make her own hours but still feel intellectually fulfilled and get outside sometimes And not have to wear high heels.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>What would that be, Lord? Architecture? Midwifery? Golf course design? I’m asking You, because if I knew, I’d be doing it.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>May she play the Drums to the fiery rhythm of her Own Heart with the sinewy strength of her Own Arms, so she need Not Lie With Drummers.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Grant her a Rough Patch from twelve to seventeen. Let her draw horses and be interested in Barbies for much too long, For childhood is short – a Tiger Flower blooming Magenta for one day – And adulthood is long and dry-humping in cars will wait.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>O Lord, break the Internet forever, That she may be spared the misspelled invective of her peers And the online marketing campaign for Rape Hostel V: Girls Just Wanna Get Stabbed.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>And when she one day turns on me and calls me a B*tch in front of Hollister, Give me the strength, Lord, to yank her directly into a cab in front of her friends, For I will not have that Sh*t. I will not have it.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>And should she choose to be a Mother one day, be my eyes, Lord, that I may see her, lying on a blanket on the floor at 4:50 A.M., all-at-once exhausted, bored, and in love with the little creature whose poop is leaking up its back.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>“My mother did this for me once,” she will realize as she cleans feces off her baby’s neck. “My mother did this for me.” And the delayed gratitude will wash over her as it does each generation and she will make a Mental Note to call me. And she will forget. But I’ll know, because I peeped it with Your God eyes.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>Amen.</em><br />
<br />
Source: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bossypants-Tina-Fey/dp/0316056863" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0f6f9f;">Bossypants</span></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwCjB5Ab-n8cSpZdSRMHVkYQyFDk6vDLrsX8nKOY13USWeww5uzSHGfL41u5fNszwqYlMVp6-Jd9fFQQUM63Zg3JnR7JeN40OGn-SeXwsltNRdI5g5_uknyNhuyOAAkJzTbE76GbMuXr39/s1600/hazel+lounging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwCjB5Ab-n8cSpZdSRMHVkYQyFDk6vDLrsX8nKOY13USWeww5uzSHGfL41u5fNszwqYlMVp6-Jd9fFQQUM63Zg3JnR7JeN40OGn-SeXwsltNRdI5g5_uknyNhuyOAAkJzTbE76GbMuXr39/s320/hazel+lounging.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-73506638306764351252012-12-04T16:23:00.000-08:002012-12-04T16:23:31.568-08:00365 Days in New Zealand: A Retrospective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDvq4L3AInPpVYcfLXbHJKu73rkekoCHQszjSt73MNSH7sJyrFVE8X6bKDVxszKa52HuyZh9zn3gcepyawi57JjmJRwkW1q2gCeqiAGyjt2SLGTq29kjNIvE3ye7Dy1qFVNbMgajfP2t0/s1600/Northhead+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDvq4L3AInPpVYcfLXbHJKu73rkekoCHQszjSt73MNSH7sJyrFVE8X6bKDVxszKa52HuyZh9zn3gcepyawi57JjmJRwkW1q2gCeqiAGyjt2SLGTq29kjNIvE3ye7Dy1qFVNbMgajfP2t0/s1600/Northhead+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
To commemorate my one year anniversary in Auckland, I have created a mock interview as my own Year in Review. PJ, Pretend Journalist, will be interviewing me for the occasion. Any resemblance to an actual interview, with persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.<br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: Thanks for meeting me here today. First off, you look fabulous who are you wearing?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Sure my pleasure. It's funny how when you don't work your schedule opens right up. As for my look, I'm wearing Champion. It's Adam's old baseball t-shirt, size XL, circa 1996. I find it really compliments my body right now, and by compliments I mean doesn't touch any part of me and gives me the shapeless, casual look that I'm going for these days. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: What currently inspires you?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Women who can walk without waddling, anyone that's given birth and lived to tell about it, Michael Jackson. I mean have you see Spike Lee's new documentary Bad 25?! Creative. Genius. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: Do you remember where you were when you found out Michael had died?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Of course I do. I was at TJ Maxx in Knoxville with my mom. I had just left San Francisco and was spending some time at home before moving to Atlanta to be with my now husband, Adam. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: Adam, isn't he the reason you ended up moving to a country that has more sheep then people? <br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Yes, yes he is. A move to New Zealand wasn't something we were looking for but he got recruited by a retailer here and well it's not every day an opportunity like that presents itself to you. Those close to us know what a tough decision it was for us to make, but I can honestly say we haven't regretted it once since taking the plunge. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIOAIU52uX9ggSH6s0GtCHWzPVxBjpw7HUG6SlHxADW9UuK6STb2XZ6tkWZFqZlaANaSg_TpM4PTqGM2ngY9a7SYKQBZToGGtH_9LZzFhCzjXgHrVOfrip7Gr3zJX5p7bXVsYM-6RmAfF/s1600/clifftrail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIOAIU52uX9ggSH6s0GtCHWzPVxBjpw7HUG6SlHxADW9UuK6STb2XZ6tkWZFqZlaANaSg_TpM4PTqGM2ngY9a7SYKQBZToGGtH_9LZzFhCzjXgHrVOfrip7Gr3zJX5p7bXVsYM-6RmAfF/s320/clifftrail.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: What are some of your favorite things about living in New Zealand?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: The first thing that comes to mind is the physical beauty and being so close to the water. We were lucky enough to find a place where we can see the ocean from our house and be at the beach in a matter of minutes. It's not just where we live though, there is stunning scenery everywhere you turn. And the great things is, it truly is an underpopulated country so you go to these awesome places and you can actually enjoy them because they aren't crowded with people. <br />
<br />
I also love the attitude of Kiwis. It really is a work to live vs. a live to work mentality. From the automatic 4 weeks of vacation plus 11 National holidays to the emphasis on family, Kiwis have this part of life right. It's extremely refreshing coming from the US. There is also a laid back attitude that permeates the culture. Imagine a place where kids don't where shoes to school and you can't sue someone for causing you injury, well that's New Zealand. <br />
<br />
Also, the travel opportunities we have being on this side of the world are amazing. It's extremely easy to travel domestically here plus there are so many places I consider exotic that are New Zealand's closest neighbors. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: What has been most surprising about life in NZ? <br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: The number of stray cats, how many people have personalized license plates, <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRRxlqVr2WZHV6ov6Ve5zB-v-AfVO-k-Z14w4odys8DWz9KHzILDH3u_zQPs600eVpwE8j8P1Xr7v2qM_B1L_s1-2JY3-A37_VEIfS-THxtgyoHC-axal83zWRZ0BS-wv6lMmPZEDokkb/s1600/Personalized+License+Plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRRxlqVr2WZHV6ov6Ve5zB-v-AfVO-k-Z14w4odys8DWz9KHzILDH3u_zQPs600eVpwE8j8P1Xr7v2qM_B1L_s1-2JY3-A37_VEIfS-THxtgyoHC-axal83zWRZ0BS-wv6lMmPZEDokkb/s1600/Personalized+License+Plate.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
the lack of central heating, how loud the birds are, how amazing the coffee is, how people don't have screens on windows or doors, how expensive some things are, how antiquated things feel at times from the fashion to business practices, the lack of censorship on tv and radio, how tough Kiwis are weather wise. I'll be in jeans and a sweater and there will be people swimming in the ocean and jogging in a tank top. It happens all the time. Not to mention the weather in general, you truly get 4 seasons in one day. I have never seen anything like it. And the number of rainbows we've seen since moving here is insane - even Double Rainbows!! Also, I'm use to it now but the no shoes thing really blew me away at first. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglalBtc-a4FajvISYqjFDCcnurtKK3sUsggfUisqEzO-ALKtwwGdkq8nEs8a0Vh3bffaaYDHrId0k8b5DLmT0twcVh6GEfRLCglEd5M9jCN8fxvdABh9Vic6HMixE5bTkZRTzwBSqQ4fVW/s1600/barefoot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglalBtc-a4FajvISYqjFDCcnurtKK3sUsggfUisqEzO-ALKtwwGdkq8nEs8a0Vh3bffaaYDHrId0k8b5DLmT0twcVh6GEfRLCglEd5M9jCN8fxvdABh9Vic6HMixE5bTkZRTzwBSqQ4fVW/s320/barefoot.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<strong>PJ</strong>: How has your day to day life changed since moving?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: I drive on the opposite side of the road. My oven is in Celsius, my food labels are in kilojoules. I dry my clothes on a line now.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtd_55CA_fpHHAxM4fpYdXaGohKYw59ORB1BKb7S4Z6mLW554XA3dHU9gkaH-5ozt7_tDRHlsRFC-S2sWP7DV6yDjv3QSf6MyF0ME2Vzi7en0TaKVY1OQ2_dLimnKBZxzqJnw_VtS0yYH/s1600/Clothesline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtd_55CA_fpHHAxM4fpYdXaGohKYw59ORB1BKb7S4Z6mLW554XA3dHU9gkaH-5ozt7_tDRHlsRFC-S2sWP7DV6yDjv3QSf6MyF0ME2Vzi7en0TaKVY1OQ2_dLimnKBZxzqJnw_VtS0yYH/s1600/Clothesline.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't make coffee at home anymore, I always go the cafe for my trim flat white. I eat a lot more muffins. My Skype rings a lot more than my actual phone. I go to the video store to rent movies. I watch less tv and eat out less. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: What's been hardest about your move? <br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Not working has definitely been difficult for me at times. There have been days where I thought my brain might atrophy or my heart might break because I was so far removed from the work I love. I left my job in Atlanta prematurely and the clients I was seeing. Doing therapy with people is amazing and creates a special relationship unlike any other. I have really had to look at the big picture and remind myself that just because I'm not practicing now doesn't mean I don't have the rest of my life to do what I love, professionally speaking. <br />
<br />
The reality is my current life allows allows me to do a lot of what I love, just not in the professional realm. More in the read 25 books in one year kind of stuff, cook elaborate meals from scratch, take long walks on the beach with my dog, yoga in the middle of the day, and be ready and available to travel at a moment's notice. I don't expect anyone to feel too sorry for me.<br />
<br />
However the other really hard part is being away from family and friends. It's hard to miss our niece and nephews growing up and just seeing people that we love on a regular basis. I have met so many nice people here and have felt so incredibly welcomed which has really helped. However at this stage in life it's hard to make and maintain new friendships. I think having a child here will open up a whole new group to us which I'm looking forward to. I appreciate the friends back home that have really made an effort to keep in touch despite the distance. Skype has been a real life saver.<br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: So sounds like your social life isn't going to make it onto page 6 anytime soon. You must spend a lot of time with Adam, do you still like each other?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Yes thank goodness, most days we still do. Living on the other side of the world has its advantages too. It's actually been nice to start a marriage this way. Because we are so far away we don't have the expectations and obligations of family in the same way you would if you were in the same place. Being just the two of us we really get to do things our way and depend strictly on each other, it can build you or break you and fortunately for us it's been strengthening. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: Whoah I didn't know this interview was going to be so Oprah magazine-ish. Do you have any naked pictures of yourself to lighten things up? <br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: No, I burned all those so that my unborn daughter can never find them and use them in a future fight. So I kept only the pictures of me at church, in organized sports, and in my debutante dress. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: You are going to be a great mother if I do say so myself. So when you think back on the past year what are some of the highlights?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Taking an improv class, volunteering with Refugee Services, starting a blog, finding the best chocolate cake recipe, getting over my fear of bread making, finding a church I get something out of, exploring new places with Adam, and getting my very own bun in the oven. Growing another human is pretty cool stuff.<br />
<br />
On the travel front definitely Fiji, Melbourne, Queenstown and the Milford Track on the South Island. And of course going home to the US to visit. As far as more local stuff - Pohutakawa Coast, Puheke Hill, the Tutukaka Coast and Bay of Islands, Cape Reigna, hiking along the Mangawhai Cliffs and in the Waitakare Ranges, the view from top of Mt. Manganoui, and wine tasting in Hawkes Bay. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSxAQksk_USIMtYT5hsGEhKKaP66mPkqdl1jGtvnWznkkxZfFkBtEj51ZXqxGeKzxrXZOrhi9zM6Foq0h6Mu9qfV8dHxVwZI0U6Iv9ynx0EdZUUgqMWVd99xGYmAoshiuBbIb1mtWdnFz/s1600/Maraetai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSxAQksk_USIMtYT5hsGEhKKaP66mPkqdl1jGtvnWznkkxZfFkBtEj51ZXqxGeKzxrXZOrhi9zM6Foq0h6Mu9qfV8dHxVwZI0U6Iv9ynx0EdZUUgqMWVd99xGYmAoshiuBbIb1mtWdnFz/s1600/Maraetai.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBL_gjDkvUyJOgdpMeJBokCY4mWYUXBFO2q6DAPbfSSF_9oVVve_3iz66KIkVUudRYxdymCgxMuW730izDQbQtgVvyJISus4XyUVneKM64sKpuwyTxFfj0qZ4bazpl3ctGFL-tAE3zR0j/s1600/milford+track.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBL_gjDkvUyJOgdpMeJBokCY4mWYUXBFO2q6DAPbfSSF_9oVVve_3iz66KIkVUudRYxdymCgxMuW730izDQbQtgVvyJISus4XyUVneKM64sKpuwyTxFfj0qZ4bazpl3ctGFL-tAE3zR0j/s1600/milford+track.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kKL2eRSNr0JKZTmNYWVCbPsiWkDugsySeiquyvZhiNSqrELcqVS3fYyDlcg0U3TIon-OmJHnpQ0NubVSOAWwAGlcotyeGrH4ksJJNwRX1B5Zo0k1Mj0uOLoKE5Yh0ibrV9Hr0yUQ5Tfx/s1600/fiji+island2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kKL2eRSNr0JKZTmNYWVCbPsiWkDugsySeiquyvZhiNSqrELcqVS3fYyDlcg0U3TIon-OmJHnpQ0NubVSOAWwAGlcotyeGrH4ksJJNwRX1B5Zo0k1Mj0uOLoKE5Yh0ibrV9Hr0yUQ5Tfx/s1600/fiji+island2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>PJ</strong>: I bet you say some pretty wacky things now that you've lived here for a year. What are some things you find yourself saying that you didn't say before?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>KW</strong>: Oh you know stuff like sweet as, she'll be right, good on ya, full on. Pretty soon it's going to be all about bubs, nappies, and prams. It's a funny mix of of very British words plus all the kiwi-isms unique to New Zealand. You mix that with my Southern roots, my time in California, including 3 years at a public high school in Oakland and you get well let's just say that pretty much makes me quadrilingual. Boo-yah. </div>
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: And how about food - things you miss or really love that NZ has to offer? <br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: Oh my gosh there are so many food things I miss. I literally have to get family back home to send me half of my baking supplies - semi-sweet chocolate chips, toffee pieces, canned pumpkin, graham crackers. And then in general I really miss good pizza, authentic mexican, bbq, and milkshakes. A milkshake here is literally like a glass of milk - no thank you. I have had Dairy Queen fantasies on more than one occasion. What New Zealand does really well is seafood and ethnic food - lots of great Indian, Thai, Malaysian. In general I find food here to be less processed and more seasonally based, both of which I think are great norms to have. There is also a wonderful cafe culture here so great coffee and fresh, delicious pastries are not hard to find. <br />
<br />
<strong>PJ</strong>: Good stuff. Anything else you want to add about life in New Zealand or your experience here the past year?<br />
<br />
<strong>KW</strong>: It's been quite the ride and so much to look forward to in the year ahead. For those of you that I actually know and would want to stay in our home, please come visit us in 2013!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPAONKgfd_Ju8_WrZ5GivGCIspSfzMWfaY27DWqTyQZoJ8E8IUGovrH5L1xusmA1XS1PQTKvwoLLCoZf8orLjSfmv0avy-_2jIYXAXhIG6YLCEWCwAeEvuNmMJ2TtfcI3JNYGU3SUS1QR/s1600/NZ+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPAONKgfd_Ju8_WrZ5GivGCIspSfzMWfaY27DWqTyQZoJ8E8IUGovrH5L1xusmA1XS1PQTKvwoLLCoZf8orLjSfmv0avy-_2jIYXAXhIG6YLCEWCwAeEvuNmMJ2TtfcI3JNYGU3SUS1QR/s320/NZ+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5077917397453386750.post-84494266666957449202012-11-21T14:14:00.001-08:002012-11-22T16:26:39.459-08:00The Final Countdown4 weeks to go .....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuSdxcsW80yvCFWaOB46YTKpNvD0U39CpXjgFx6TBWO01Vtp5PeOEyUOiAMkKdCqVYmFIj5nGlYJpbZtMxC_icox3K1oBki7URikPY9blepnUmgMvIgXx-j6I2R6uawXGgWJ3he-RrQKW/s1600/Belly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuSdxcsW80yvCFWaOB46YTKpNvD0U39CpXjgFx6TBWO01Vtp5PeOEyUOiAMkKdCqVYmFIj5nGlYJpbZtMxC_icox3K1oBki7URikPY9blepnUmgMvIgXx-j6I2R6uawXGgWJ3he-RrQKW/s320/Belly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm to the point now where I see a woman jogging on the road and am filled with envy. Look at you bouncing freely, you're probably going to go home and have a big glass of wine and then sleep on your stomach - you b*tch! I don't know who started the whole 9 months myth about pregnancy but it's 10 in case anyone was wondering. Whoever it was is a big fat liar and their pants should be on fire. <br />
<br />
However, the only thing on fire around here is my dreams. Seriously if Hollywood could see into them, trust me they would be buying the rights. And it's been like this from the beginning. I'm talking sex, murder, and intrigue people. Trust me they are a very interesting place to be. I'd been doubtful before that I could kill mobsters in China Town, but now that I've done it in my dreams I feel confident that 1. I can and 2. I'm ready to be a mother. <br />
<br />
One of the funniest dreams I had was shortly after we got cable (Sky TV as it's called here), which was last month by the way. Yes it's true, we did manage to go almost an entire year without it. The lure of college football is what really sent us running into the arms of a satellite dish, ESPN, and me into Kardashian marathons. Which brings me to my dream. I am watching E, which is one of our new stations and see an ad where Kourtney Kardashian says, "It's a girl." That's all it took. Fast forward to that night, and I have a dream (nightmare!) all about how Kourtney has stolen a baby name we are considering and it was on the cover of US Weekly. Of course I now can't use that name because everyone will think we named our baby after a Kardashian. In the dream I was seriously tortured over this. I was relieved to discover after a google search the next morning that my fear was unfounded. Whew!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Q4dZNz0_P496RtjDYFGAvGciGvDrrKIIw3Z33MZrvYMNU3bqRMj5yvg2e-OEFmQDBzG96VVXB1AKuQ2bE491wn2GMMaFEADts0bKsChC5kMFYuPgUVhWc9EVDC6A1TWW5TQnZNG8Lwd9/s1600/US+Weekly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Q4dZNz0_P496RtjDYFGAvGciGvDrrKIIw3Z33MZrvYMNU3bqRMj5yvg2e-OEFmQDBzG96VVXB1AKuQ2bE491wn2GMMaFEADts0bKsChC5kMFYuPgUVhWc9EVDC6A1TWW5TQnZNG8Lwd9/s320/US+Weekly.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
<br />
Weird dreams aside, there are many parts of pregnancy I have really enjoyed. One such thing being baby showers. My friend Adrienne recently threw me a fabulous high tea themed shower where everyone was encouraged to bring a gift to spoil the the mother to be, i.e. ME! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDnTN5BtMVJwUawwBjmEy39-CuDXn958HcK__YYNFZzH8iu_-xoRLaVXGvCpYdn06GmGQ43wfcSLVim1_bCeEs0W9d-nOJpqBJL_wOSAWOGnEtIy5YTf3lZivOtJaml8IapSAydBP26grD/s1600/NZ+baby+shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDnTN5BtMVJwUawwBjmEy39-CuDXn958HcK__YYNFZzH8iu_-xoRLaVXGvCpYdn06GmGQ43wfcSLVim1_bCeEs0W9d-nOJpqBJL_wOSAWOGnEtIy5YTf3lZivOtJaml8IapSAydBP26grD/s1600/NZ+baby+shower.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And wear a hat or fascinator:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqunuNoxgSsyJNUGTR91ZphTpfNdZxOo7ildMpUm2ll05IlS_ZL4K_cVIxO0ldgW05tZkNrHV2503GuWyy-x9lbVpCiaoQy-gUDlFHwZjGrYsgHmOUXNDRLH2SOO-RoyCMl6p_o4PRSUj/s1600/Kate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqunuNoxgSsyJNUGTR91ZphTpfNdZxOo7ildMpUm2ll05IlS_ZL4K_cVIxO0ldgW05tZkNrHV2503GuWyy-x9lbVpCiaoQy-gUDlFHwZjGrYsgHmOUXNDRLH2SOO-RoyCMl6p_o4PRSUj/s1600/Kate.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I didn't even know what a fascinator was before I was having a shower where I needed to wear one, but I gotta say everyone looked fabulous and had a really good time. It's so English over here that it was fun to embrace that part of the culture. Unfortunately, Kate couldn't make it but I know she sends her best and was playing her own version of the clothespin game somewhere that day. It was a lovely occasion and I was so touched by all the people that came to help me celebrate.<br />
<br />
Thank goodness for people I actually have the ability to talk to because when it comes to socializing these days I'm usually batting zero. I can't tell you how many times over the past few months I've been in a situation and been like a deer in headlights. Basically, feeling like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigk6oCslrjZ38omrf8ln0AHWaSQWPsp38Wltj9MAxmB6-MMlyZztpg-KOXA_fpPDtVmiDWpKDn4kZ9WSWbUrMhBtQWR_X-x1kRWjNkAWauit6TZDQufKFtLlFtNiZbOmDj_FJP9vXxOJ4T/s1600/deer+in+headlights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigk6oCslrjZ38omrf8ln0AHWaSQWPsp38Wltj9MAxmB6-MMlyZztpg-KOXA_fpPDtVmiDWpKDn4kZ9WSWbUrMhBtQWR_X-x1kRWjNkAWauit6TZDQufKFtLlFtNiZbOmDj_FJP9vXxOJ4T/s1600/deer+in+headlights.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's as though my pregnancy came with a personality switch and every time I need to rise to the occasion in a new social situation the switch gets flipped off. I mean usually I can talk to a brick wall, but lately I got nothing. All I can think is dear lord, is this what it's like to be shy?! This is awful. I know I should be saying something, that I should be making conversation, but nothing is coming out.<br />
<br />
That's why I'm taking time to savour the quiet, sweet moments. Table for 1 please:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S-uKPjvwgIz55OG-s8PIGcd_FCu63DOsoQAujxAXl3ml18fC0hxs2TRnUeb5ECfexFRqDuiuPAhjT7ONqU2l_fjY988P7FXU2NiNceB4qhZqhF8bbV0-w8yM0sZ_Z_lD3Ad1Yrw0mEOs/s1600/little+and+Friday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S-uKPjvwgIz55OG-s8PIGcd_FCu63DOsoQAujxAXl3ml18fC0hxs2TRnUeb5ECfexFRqDuiuPAhjT7ONqU2l_fjY988P7FXU2NiNceB4qhZqhF8bbV0-w8yM0sZ_Z_lD3Ad1Yrw0mEOs/s320/little+and+Friday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Life can't be all coffee and doughnuts though, there is a lot of prepping and getting ready for baby girl. We started our antenatal classes where we learn all about labor, delivery, and practical parenting stuff. Men even have the opportunity to wear an "empathy suit":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTSlvuAevnTYOJIwjha2sUqDFa-RGM3Qiv2Y3Q9GbHAC_LFKSHERliH0mnMXmm9t13fP56SmfI81fY73yMB-euwd0oPL4Y64hPmzTuWj8O8pWrVr2UTA3RMWvNjJVuGne0ywpsPOwsotp/s1600/empathy+suit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTSlvuAevnTYOJIwjha2sUqDFa-RGM3Qiv2Y3Q9GbHAC_LFKSHERliH0mnMXmm9t13fP56SmfI81fY73yMB-euwd0oPL4Y64hPmzTuWj8O8pWrVr2UTA3RMWvNjJVuGne0ywpsPOwsotp/s1600/empathy+suit.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
No Adam has not worn it and is focused more on whether he can get laughing gas during delivery. We have met some nice people and since I hadn't really read very much of the what to expect stuff, I'm actually learning a lot. <br />
<br />
Besides trying to maintain my sanity as the due date approaches we've gotten to do some much needed non baby related things in the past month too. One of the highlights include a visit from an old colleague of mine from Atlanta, Kathie, and her husband Paul. They stayed with us for a few days and it was so great to have them here. It's almost surreal to see someone from home in this setting because we go for so long without seeing familiar faces. It was a welcome treat and so fun to hear all about the trip around the world they are on.<br />
<br />
We recently attended our first NZ Breakers basketball game:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI98YsGXQgkXVnOurOV00RdadtGXfX2qnqVVas_Yi4Q4NJnUA9cL5n4TgbnOEsnFhUaVKQBHC14lNKciNDxgNwEs8FmWvXEsFlTC6AYF9hyywBw0eYd5DEbxFK7i34aH0I3E4k7ZG20VD0/s1600/Breakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI98YsGXQgkXVnOurOV00RdadtGXfX2qnqVVas_Yi4Q4NJnUA9cL5n4TgbnOEsnFhUaVKQBHC14lNKciNDxgNwEs8FmWvXEsFlTC6AYF9hyywBw0eYd5DEbxFK7i34aH0I3E4k7ZG20VD0/s1600/Breakers.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I loved it! They played (and beat) the Townsville Crocs, an Australian team. It's the closest thing New Zealand has to the NBA and in the land of cricket and rugby, it was so awesome to see a real, live, basketball game. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another day we hit up NZ Sculpture on the Shore:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WFxWd-3gRz0xDHY2ZZtzVPSmB6dD-hmM4_Qkjry-E8Z2_x9XwdBNNtKLdF4Ux__rJzYsAy819OdCQJmKoKHL0hxsc9XWoFhHVAJqDxMCbIHXWL8yBHWRgDXgC0G0jlZv8m97TaJ_pRG5/s1600/sculpture+on+the+shore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WFxWd-3gRz0xDHY2ZZtzVPSmB6dD-hmM4_Qkjry-E8Z2_x9XwdBNNtKLdF4Ux__rJzYsAy819OdCQJmKoKHL0hxsc9XWoFhHVAJqDxMCbIHXWL8yBHWRgDXgC0G0jlZv8m97TaJ_pRG5/s1600/sculpture+on+the+shore.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm also still involved in my volunteer work with the Burmese refugee family. Now that they are more settled we can focus on doing fun stuff together. I took two of the boys to the MOTAT, the Museum of Transport and Technology which I think they enjoyed. Along with the other volunteers on my team, one day we took the family on a picnic and to the park. Adam came along and it was nice that he got to meet them and witness an unfortunate but comical scene. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So one of the volunteers was travelling with two of the Burmese boys and three of her grandchildren in her car. It had started raining and we were trying to find a covered playgroud so I am following this woman. She pulls up to a school and gets out, I park behind her. She comes to my window, mentioning nothing out of the ordinary, saying she will go in and check it out. Then one by one, all five of the the kids start piling out of her car, each throwing up or bent over coughing. Then we see one of the Burmese boys get out just covered in throw up. Obviously he had gotten sick en route and as is often the case, made others sick around him. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
His mother was in my car and she jumps out ready to wipe him down and then gets out the extra change of clothes she has brought along, ready for such an occasion. I know he is prone to car sickness because he tossed his cookies in my car one of the first days I met him (see July post What Goes Down Must Come Up). The good news is, shortly after everyone was fine and no one seemed to have trouble getting down the brownies I made.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6-q18m0AwdTxG-7ddBq5BqkFb_NApXIYkt7iDf30n7I4AHnVjsSPC96sf8Q6rkh9pOwlj1LkyGwbGiDRXuqEdcg-VonX3Zq67zdu-ULTol6qxUd6wWwa_PibqFbMRCZChc_a7hY-9vO4/s1600/Mins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6-q18m0AwdTxG-7ddBq5BqkFb_NApXIYkt7iDf30n7I4AHnVjsSPC96sf8Q6rkh9pOwlj1LkyGwbGiDRXuqEdcg-VonX3Zq67zdu-ULTol6qxUd6wWwa_PibqFbMRCZChc_a7hY-9vO4/s1600/Mins.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My commitment ends next month and overall it's been a great experience. The family is doing well and I'm impressed at how they've adjusted. The language barrier has been tough, as I would really like to be able to get to know them more. You know as in communicating in the same language kind of way, but I knew that was part of the deal when I signed up. Despite this obstacle, it's been neat to see the rapport established, the warmth conveyed, and discover other ways to connect with people besides verbal language.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hard to believe Thanksgiving and Christmas are right around the corner. We will be celebrating Turkey Day on Saturday with some other Americans. Our friends and family back home will certainly be in our thoughts. Ya'll have a safe and happy holiday. Gobble Gobble! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOha8ztUMDw78cCmzzlOHrdaSsUA5R28DGtK-zqw0eztWc-GVitJM9zVhTGdJPnBdflIRfW6p1NxPH5JjPQ1DSzrsnS3dSVEZ-WD_JjtB0GICZKV4rqVlG3zrS5-PdFqdXK4ZjHbl6L25m/s1600/Turkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOha8ztUMDw78cCmzzlOHrdaSsUA5R28DGtK-zqw0eztWc-GVitJM9zVhTGdJPnBdflIRfW6p1NxPH5JjPQ1DSzrsnS3dSVEZ-WD_JjtB0GICZKV4rqVlG3zrS5-PdFqdXK4ZjHbl6L25m/s1600/Turkey.jpg" /></a></div>
Katie Cope Wolfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10581139919416809175noreply@blogger.com2