From Fall to Spring

Since we've last chatted a number of events have taken place. Our visit to BC (which we have now decided is actually the abbreviation for "Beautiful Coast") was stupendous. The eleven days spent exploring Vancouver Island (from top to bottom) and a wee bit of Vancouver have led me to the realization that people from the West Coast have every reason to be cocky - it's that great. Some of our west-coast activities included: sushi with the Vancouver halfway house gang (an enormous thank you to Carolyn and her lovely roommates for taking us in), exploring the northern coast of Vancouver Island - including whales, wild-caught salmon, and the remote, rugged Pacific Coast (a huge hug to the Sointula family of John, Emma, and Zamma for being magnificent hosts), and a well-rounded tour of beautiful Victoria (thanks to Dr. Starzomski for sharing his coffee, kitchen, and general insights on life). Also on our BC agenda was a quick trip to Tofino for Bry to gaze adoringly at the surf (thank you Jenn for being a gracious hostess), and catching up with friends from other times and places (Rebecca, Philip, Liz, Jayme, and Jay). Touring BC was simply an incredible way to end the summer and a delightful stopover on our way to New Zealand. (Photo's of some BC highlights can be found below).

But BC feels like so long ago... about a 1.5 day flight ago actually. Three custom checks, two airplanes, a number or airline meals, three lost bags, and a few Gravol later - we arrived in Wellington, New Zealand. After a landing that rivaled an unpleasant amusement park ride (apparently the city is known as "Windy Wellington") we were met at the airport by our sweet Maori guide (and Bryan's cousin), Daniel. A quick whisk from the airport and we settled into a beautiful home with a spectacular view of the bay. We are slowly beginning to feel rested as we relax at Bryan's family post. It's a windy day in Wellington, and actually not all that warm for it being spring - but it feels great to finally be here.

Watching the surf in Tofino

San Josef Bay, northern Vancouver Island

Sointula, Malcom Island

Spotting my first whale in the wild - Sointula, BC

Twas the night before our departure...

and visions of shorebirds danced in our heads.

The most presssing questions: Will there be birds (that fly) in New Zealand? Could we fit anything else in Bryan's oversized backpack? and How much Gravol should we pack for a 1200 hour flight?

The past few weeks have been filled with many goodbyes, see-you-laters, and teary hugs. We could not be any more grateful for everyone who took in two homeless hobos as we prepared for our Kiwi adventure. Tomorrow we set out for the west coast of Canada to visit with old friends (Carolyn, Emma, John, Jenn, Brian, Aimee, Liz, Bethany, Rebecca, ...) for a glorious 10 days. British Columbia will not only deliever to us sweet reunions but a great stopover before heading much farther west, much farther down.

With our tree-hugging degrees behind us, our (Canadian) work experiences put on hold, and our general lack of grown-up belongings (a home, etc.) there seemed to be no better time than to pack up and see a new corner of the world. A quick look at the world map and it all became clear - New Zealand. Why not?

Until we're in the Southern Hemisphere,
remember that you can never embark upon too many adventures.

xo Lann & Bry