winding down

Well, we are preparing to head back home today. It has been a wonderful trip and we have thoroughly enjoyed it. We were able to re-kindle some friendships and do and see many things. It has been an adventure.

But we really need to acknowledge our good friends John and Jane for taking us under their wings and treating us like royalty. They have taken us golfing and cycling, invited us for lunch(dinner)and dinner(tea), and acted as our chauffeurs to just about everywhere. They are truly ambassadors of good will for Nelson and are a big reason we continue to return here. So, we'll miss you John and Jane!

snow in the mountains

We woke up to 40 degree temps this morning and fall is definitely in the air. It has been an abnormal summer in NZ this year. It has been cool and as I've previously mentioned, wet. So the locals are feeling a bit denied of summer, but it hasn't been all that bad. The western ranges have snow at the peaks today. I've never seen that before here. It is beautiful, but a little early I think.

We had to shift out of our apartment as it was booked to someone else beginning today. We found another place a mile or so away and have a new view now and a different perspective on the city.

We were invited to a barbeque at our friends John and Jane's today. Some other of our golfing mates and their spouses joined and it was a lovely time.

green beer and Al Franken

We were heading into town the other day and noticed an Al Franken bumper sticker on a car. It didn't register at first since it was such a common sight at home. Then it hit me; hey, wait. That was an Al Franken bumper sticker. I couldn't believe it. So, I took a picture.

We do most of our grocery shopping via bicycle. It usually means buying small quantities on a daily basis. But when it comes to beer, a 12 pack is a 12 pack. So, onto the back of the bike it goes. That is what I call "green beer".

The weather seems to have taken a turn toward autumn. It is quite cool (highs in the 60's)and some color is starting to appear in the trees. The days are getting shorter and I think it must be time for us to start making our way back north. We'll be leaving next Wednesday, March 7th.