tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82432980969928726742024-03-13T18:36:25.760+13:00Nichols in New ZealandThe Nichols in New Zealand is our attempt to keep all friends and family posted on what God is doing in New Zealand in and around us. We are so excited about this adventure of discovery. We anticipate learning more about ourselves, about the people of New Zealand, and especially about our God through this overseas experience.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-22000270862730049552009-09-21T06:56:00.002+12:002009-09-21T13:27:53.109+12:00New Website<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZIe1G3Mh9D1lT75Ro-J0I1Sqw-U23PC9KX1IVSx4Si5ioxkbCCYhPYd08W7KzjADgHUhZI2kGPS6iM_oRD_EKO2eHXMipFSjHBDii-4vVtaQimiFMwxjqfJmB_KnzjhZghml93y_U2jH/s1600-h/IMGA0658.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZIe1G3Mh9D1lT75Ro-J0I1Sqw-U23PC9KX1IVSx4Si5ioxkbCCYhPYd08W7KzjADgHUhZI2kGPS6iM_oRD_EKO2eHXMipFSjHBDii-4vVtaQimiFMwxjqfJmB_KnzjhZghml93y_U2jH/s400/IMGA0658.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383644586724950386" /></a><br />Back by popular demand, we have decided to try and start another website called Nichols in Knoxville. Look for us at www.KnoxNichols.blogspot.com for news about the goings on in K-town.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-56128429737653310952009-06-20T00:20:00.003+12:002009-06-20T00:30:15.031+12:00Hello Everyone!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-1ocGu6ccwBa8iy5vxCT4zoN8fUOE7bMgvD74uMMejxuDhBDmW4_Mt1brCQMjYpq9CpwNsP2jq8k1Pq5XhyphenhyphenX85U2d-Jeqe5TmcQMxwCUAAK95-vK2IrUg5YMTv0colle9a_PyUf6Kk-E/s1600-h/Photo+1200.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-1ocGu6ccwBa8iy5vxCT4zoN8fUOE7bMgvD74uMMejxuDhBDmW4_Mt1brCQMjYpq9CpwNsP2jq8k1Pq5XhyphenhyphenX85U2d-Jeqe5TmcQMxwCUAAK95-vK2IrUg5YMTv0colle9a_PyUf6Kk-E/s400/Photo+1200.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349014437863626306" /></a><br />Hello Everyone! Its Claire here!I want to thank everyone for being there when we left and when we came back.We are glad to be home but, also miss New Zealand.We really enjoyed our time in New Zealand and wish to come back one day.I really hope we come back some day.Anyway, we miss everyone "heaps!" -ClaireNicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-80450551394489454302009-05-09T13:35:00.013+12:002009-05-12T05:56:52.610+12:00Farewell NZ<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6nH_OHHlE3KmSO_vHv4_DzRbRX2_BcuXEBwmg48FPVk_BVGK0yqlW-CrT2r2DODwFpZmOr3ej6kK_AN5Gm6uFfSLQKnsIDAfdPLw0uDluJdnW7u4VZeQkas0KdrXmKWdUpU_QR0YkMi3/s1600-h/IMGA0960.JPG"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXFpx_OCne6Vt4NRM6sQOrucVqZ02tFB6tKVyFz1NvHRSsuH6v-FP2ZIB7WzDgnIQGfAcHZZnfasLfOPaqOs-tUIHhd1twFRq_nv-FsQbmfUtNqY5FvYn2S4xn7Ol_tZFv7vy-PLXnsMM/s1600-h/IMGA0210.JPG"></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Whangarei Community Church</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8wVUa7sBUwRgmOUCuZ4KdMW6R6c6cAxmBfpgSzZBNJxvvBiNt1Z1sWKxPEeGS7TbFRc_pELgk75j_Gbj1F4Lp9pb_IDlXySFpRKkfwaUdQtojL87L6g23sBrc4VQCIDvIkneTiKJyoYM/s1600-h/IMGA0233.JPG"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnPGIOAD5dzTS44QPlSsi5RmF_lENSYlXvZ3ruDdO_rbf_6jtuCBw8bOp5Iri9A7tdLWpbeBhZgciJf-amOssmhakxJL5jx6wC7f1mwuTFLT9tv0p1FE7hrtWmlXHhObkkCSt4rwKD43ch/s1600-h/IMGA0458.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnPGIOAD5dzTS44QPlSsi5RmF_lENSYlXvZ3ruDdO_rbf_6jtuCBw8bOp5Iri9A7tdLWpbeBhZgciJf-amOssmhakxJL5jx6wC7f1mwuTFLT9tv0p1FE7hrtWmlXHhObkkCSt4rwKD43ch/s400/IMGA0458.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333679673762230018" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLl3F7h8eWZaHBgrvGELV5wnU2mdv7_FVB55OThDEjEjNcGL4DIq2mHpslmKWImpCtf4gD_YnN5TgM8r_YeTBQ8dYs3koL9tc2r42QyGt68q8cwlQleOxTZpxlpwvk-7A9AjlTFYK6d3z/s1600-h/IMGA0517.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLl3F7h8eWZaHBgrvGELV5wnU2mdv7_FVB55OThDEjEjNcGL4DIq2mHpslmKWImpCtf4gD_YnN5TgM8r_YeTBQ8dYs3koL9tc2r42QyGt68q8cwlQleOxTZpxlpwvk-7A9AjlTFYK6d3z/s400/IMGA0517.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333663675116297986" /></a> Department of Medicine going away party with the specialist doctors and Linda (front row far left) the nurse who coordinated the lung cancer program Lynn started. Dr. John Mpe was recruited from South Africa as Lynn's replacement pulmonology specialist.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Q3idNrwzkI08ZBFsh4o0S0GCUuQr1-KmXSHUF6eIpFQhYsI4fQ6cql__hdSRqv79k2xUjacLRnhyWtQ_s8olDsLDM84d9nzHO9qeaGx9dq3g5ZKawJIx6g-l8azaro2ZhIQctbyUnHsp/s1600-h/IMGA0516.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Q3idNrwzkI08ZBFsh4o0S0GCUuQr1-KmXSHUF6eIpFQhYsI4fQ6cql__hdSRqv79k2xUjacLRnhyWtQ_s8olDsLDM84d9nzHO9qeaGx9dq3g5ZKawJIx6g-l8azaro2ZhIQctbyUnHsp/s400/IMGA0516.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333663672302422690" /></a>Viv, laboratory manager, and me at going away party. Viv gave me a beautiful almost black greenstone carved in the Maori eternal friendship symbol. She drove half our luggage to Auckland and sat with us in the airport keeping me company over coffee (our favorite thing to do together.....the coffee and the talking not the waiting at the airport). It was a sad goodbye as we boarded our international flight and I had to say goodbye to a professional mentor, a personal friend and spiritual sister.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RlHE6XYeosf7gWKTn6cwv6FzzI0Ff7hn3jErW84WZXIKWh3jJb9cVuHDUlGGrofBI-w0L0vuZ4_D_elVJvVYLOwvvmKyZdcnLuHQE5w9o-dzQE8x3OLMwngeIEe2VOcm2LSQMghTdkTy/s1600-h/IMGA0515.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RlHE6XYeosf7gWKTn6cwv6FzzI0Ff7hn3jErW84WZXIKWh3jJb9cVuHDUlGGrofBI-w0L0vuZ4_D_elVJvVYLOwvvmKyZdcnLuHQE5w9o-dzQE8x3OLMwngeIEe2VOcm2LSQMghTdkTy/s400/IMGA0515.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333663671143062754" /></a> Helen from "The Fish Bowl" hosted the medical party and was generally good to us all year. She was the closest thing to a mother and grandmother.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4O0PjyiLZOllwXcO_eG_HOydXeif_zdjEvQF-ncMXp2PskMhepTCnvQVe04TNNLcCpgz_Bk1-OgPajrn49CVKuaSc5yTNWSSt-vLP4AOuxOHY6VO0YoZn04SC8P66WsoUGezYbr98rvx/s1600-h/IMGA0376.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4O0PjyiLZOllwXcO_eG_HOydXeif_zdjEvQF-ncMXp2PskMhepTCnvQVe04TNNLcCpgz_Bk1-OgPajrn49CVKuaSc5yTNWSSt-vLP4AOuxOHY6VO0YoZn04SC8P66WsoUGezYbr98rvx/s400/IMGA0376.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333663665118404994" /></a> Zara wrote a song for us. That was a Nichols' first. We also received 3 different paintings given by the artist themselves ( one from a patient, one from Herani at church and one from a friend in our community).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCaAxqfU58YsyivNk2b-xlHwqNDic6ZJqRdip58j8Ed6liDx33cySyrLHU0hhUEOkTiGUBjF6yZuyJsDb4Z4x_QPYwXeBqhPFMTC1tgpZ92V8KfULL52sKMqMVPu3F_s3D8w9ia_cFvX_/s1600-h/IMGA0511.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCaAxqfU58YsyivNk2b-xlHwqNDic6ZJqRdip58j8Ed6liDx33cySyrLHU0hhUEOkTiGUBjF6yZuyJsDb4Z4x_QPYwXeBqhPFMTC1tgpZ92V8KfULL52sKMqMVPu3F_s3D8w9ia_cFvX_/s400/IMGA0511.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333661886820846578" /></a> Iliase (red shirt) is the sleep and pulmonary function technician who assisted Lynn to kick off the sleep apnea program and pulmonary function lab. They named the new pulmonary function machine "Maureen" after Lynn's first patient who was tested on it. The other people in the photo work in outpatient medicine as nurses and echo technicians.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaTj2ubq5R9So_8c-MCGh_gazInTYq5VjRvuavuD7BlyytsjhRDuY-C7T5PFdpX1tcyoyzcgm-RoCFdTunvPj44Cr9k5BzxSdGpl1WiGKN7eTSYYLmRlj0WParYtlypsqViPWCUkObxM-/s1600-h/IMGA0509.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaTj2ubq5R9So_8c-MCGh_gazInTYq5VjRvuavuD7BlyytsjhRDuY-C7T5PFdpX1tcyoyzcgm-RoCFdTunvPj44Cr9k5BzxSdGpl1WiGKN7eTSYYLmRlj0WParYtlypsqViPWCUkObxM-/s400/IMGA0509.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333661883411403122" /></a>Whangarei Heads community was a gift from God. At the community send off Lynn quoted the bible verse that talks about "man making his plans but God directing his steps". We felt that was true of the area we happened to rent a house in.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvIsNUhhoZ2EmS26ViYi2LmYaSoMONJ1KuDIlwUp3ouJ6dJ3CZxMjcyl-Kk4dZj_1QcyNA53fL7qtC3MAirMVrQHm1ZlL-As-ZMMWoVB3OwciRm7eXD9Kgluj1q9XG-I-yqnc1FjhwNku2/s1600-h/IMGA0368.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvIsNUhhoZ2EmS26ViYi2LmYaSoMONJ1KuDIlwUp3ouJ6dJ3CZxMjcyl-Kk4dZj_1QcyNA53fL7qtC3MAirMVrQHm1ZlL-As-ZMMWoVB3OwciRm7eXD9Kgluj1q9XG-I-yqnc1FjhwNku2/s400/IMGA0368.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333661886022717234" /></a>The church going away party was fun and I muddled through trying to share what I think God has taught us this year. There may be a reprise at some point if anyone back home wants to hear about it. Our last Sunday was an amazing service with a message about the "Fullness of God" that left us all in tears (the good moving kind of crying). The worship leader happened to pick some of my favorite songs like "Potter's Hand" by Hillsongs and "In Christ Alone". <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7uDa5bZYraLjglI9j_bJE3pTqvmotbg2_zeQHbxF_X-rLq6os0Lol0crZWYqAcp7RWEojnWX7ouBCAMlX74Y3xlu2AhFCXuGQCO7y-2MPGU4cVvKf7AxLhjtSV12Fvk4IM1YcshaSATp/s1600-h/IMGA0369.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7uDa5bZYraLjglI9j_bJE3pTqvmotbg2_zeQHbxF_X-rLq6os0Lol0crZWYqAcp7RWEojnWX7ouBCAMlX74Y3xlu2AhFCXuGQCO7y-2MPGU4cVvKf7AxLhjtSV12Fvk4IM1YcshaSATp/s400/IMGA0369.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333661879921955618" /></a>Jo made us this beautiful cake of NZ for the church going away party.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdt9D_Hv85FaTzrX7BkZUGAt1u_hyphenhyphenlDLCR7SrPcsSC1jHSHbk4STymZ4hyphenhyphenr7B0qAWMZ9ofB1qeufqRov-TfsmZqyAYzPSU8aqIUkH9Kx192oyZr9rlTX9odYtwsyZRiLI38jvPqCbT_17/s1600-h/Lost+world+10am+8+March+-+Rob+(14).JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdt9D_Hv85FaTzrX7BkZUGAt1u_hyphenhyphenlDLCR7SrPcsSC1jHSHbk4STymZ4hyphenhyphenr7B0qAWMZ9ofB1qeufqRov-TfsmZqyAYzPSU8aqIUkH9Kx192oyZr9rlTX9odYtwsyZRiLI38jvPqCbT_17/s400/Lost+world+10am+8+March+-+Rob+(14).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333658298066211250" /></a>The weeks before we left had our last road trip further down the North Island to the Waitomo caves which are a collection of 100's of caves. 5 or 6 are commercially toured.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFac9vBT7UuvrzIglUkahikx_KlOWujKF7R9x3Z6Jc8FnXwyR_9aaTOG4pttKpXdvXpOWnhsuF8UHqaUFSWys5wvoVplMnhph3ZtHM4K8NZ5mB2AswbxK-VZhhPnNyu6TbyUVgPFt8QtKR/s1600-h/Lost+World+2.30pm+16+April+-+Iain+(6).JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFac9vBT7UuvrzIglUkahikx_KlOWujKF7R9x3Z6Jc8FnXwyR_9aaTOG4pttKpXdvXpOWnhsuF8UHqaUFSWys5wvoVplMnhph3ZtHM4K8NZ5mB2AswbxK-VZhhPnNyu6TbyUVgPFt8QtKR/s400/Lost+World+2.30pm+16+April+-+Iain+(6).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333657648320380098" /></a>Phillip and I did the king daddy which started with a 100 meter free repel (abseiling) into the cavern which is pictured above. Then we hiked 2 hours to get out of the cave. It was a guided tour Mom! The rest of the crew did more tame spelunking in caves with water boats and glow worms like stars on the cave walls.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-A2A0-lN2WGR2OI2RkJfM09SzRSYZE5X4ZkcDgIFFND_jdYFVuPcujZufI6e5qm5I3-O_9MKno64emBe0fhm_GqDMg_-ePGKNRYjPEjaWXyb-CWm_vSz9HNsEwcKvjZxmtFQZf-bIoYh1/s1600-h/IMGA0004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333634685193630594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-A2A0-lN2WGR2OI2RkJfM09SzRSYZE5X4ZkcDgIFFND_jdYFVuPcujZufI6e5qm5I3-O_9MKno64emBe0fhm_GqDMg_-ePGKNRYjPEjaWXyb-CWm_vSz9HNsEwcKvjZxmtFQZf-bIoYh1/s400/IMGA0004.JPG" border="0" /></a>A few weeks before we enjoyed a hike after lunch on Yamana with our sailing friends Pete and Alice we met via Hugh in Charleston. Many thanks to Pete, a professional photographer (pictured on Yamana below), who framed some beautiful photos of New Zealand he had taken. We gave them to the Medicine department as a "Thank You" and a memento for the department conference room at the hospital.<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); font-size:23px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6nH_OHHlE3KmSO_vHv4_DzRbRX2_BcuXEBwmg48FPVk_BVGK0yqlW-CrT2r2DODwFpZmOr3ej6kK_AN5Gm6uFfSLQKnsIDAfdPLw0uDluJdnW7u4VZeQkas0KdrXmKWdUpU_QR0YkMi3/s400/IMGA0960.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333687046248172834" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px; " /></span><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnR9ODPpC6FWN8mE8jF4o6rj6udKFZc2nvgjIIaVtnZtOsYC3xwzIoMTuEExjswGVlRhyphenhyphenrWWUazvVhTK5HRjkkk2N4RSnnYqxKd-2Zv9P-LlYdjo5AoEpxkz2c48EN99Howdh-I8kNVJYN/s1600-h/IMGA0058.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333634689875207874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnR9ODPpC6FWN8mE8jF4o6rj6udKFZc2nvgjIIaVtnZtOsYC3xwzIoMTuEExjswGVlRhyphenhyphenrWWUazvVhTK5HRjkkk2N4RSnnYqxKd-2Zv9P-LlYdjo5AoEpxkz2c48EN99Howdh-I8kNVJYN/s400/IMGA0058.JPG" border="0" /></a> The kids were out of school on break the last 3 weeks we were there so we tried some homeschooling. Anna was replacing NZ coins with trying to learn our US money.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuh7G4N0jifRVnJELl8QwXzFujAEzQRYPMYr7qzXu1lBiSx1SQswN_7xN4PTyno6HyChwrx_ajw09TifewLD4Bw82n3o_narPpHDwDiAx-f7e3Ok1ejhAsqvgiX1xckGTuwNZ69nVPpkSq/s1600-h/Claires+Camera+019.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333634678809796914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuh7G4N0jifRVnJELl8QwXzFujAEzQRYPMYr7qzXu1lBiSx1SQswN_7xN4PTyno6HyChwrx_ajw09TifewLD4Bw82n3o_narPpHDwDiAx-f7e3Ok1ejhAsqvgiX1xckGTuwNZ69nVPpkSq/s400/Claires+Camera+019.jpg" border="0" /></a> Lake Taupo was beautiful and reminded me of our Lake Tahoe and the local Lake Tellico. We met my brother there for Lynn's and Rus' birthdays. The boys went fly fishing. The girls walked along the shore to the above dock. The nights had ball room dancing, cards, and a general good laugh in the bach with Loida and Rus.<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:11px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8wVUa7sBUwRgmOUCuZ4KdMW6R6c6cAxmBfpgSzZBNJxvvBiNt1Z1sWKxPEeGS7TbFRc_pELgk75j_Gbj1F4Lp9pb_IDlXySFpRKkfwaUdQtojL87L6g23sBrc4VQCIDvIkneTiKJyoYM/s400/IMGA0233.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333679676237557554" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px; " /></span><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXFpx_OCne6Vt4NRM6sQOrucVqZ02tFB6tKVyFz1NvHRSsuH6v-FP2ZIB7WzDgnIQGfAcHZZnfasLfOPaqOs-tUIHhd1twFRq_nv-FsQbmfUtNqY5FvYn2S4xn7Ol_tZFv7vy-PLXnsMM/s400/IMGA0210.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333679684654752466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px; " /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIq6DcBMc5n2p3f5ZeCYKrNaa0Bi_FwnE2beL7RArGunJNKz_zlVcjVFDEbhUe9B38pup6-QLTP8TMsGb2XAHs9xoF_uN1ezib7oe1_ndfvhta1JfdB_wqL-Q06kro_Nu7xE7JJnDlck8/s1600-h/rustrout.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIq6DcBMc5n2p3f5ZeCYKrNaa0Bi_FwnE2beL7RArGunJNKz_zlVcjVFDEbhUe9B38pup6-QLTP8TMsGb2XAHs9xoF_uN1ezib7oe1_ndfvhta1JfdB_wqL-Q06kro_Nu7xE7JJnDlck8/s400/rustrout.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333679684281225474" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2uYF_7bJP3dDNPbaOYft07F-x60kk6mtrrf-dr7hzH4dM8URqpHV6UV8UFbbik8797sxxVv6fzeuZQNOnbctGj5R9pC3_cpsZvEr75WIw0VCu-m8kMphfdM9bzm_bhF6GKDao1gJnEV9/s1600-h/Claires+Camera+011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333634676034390162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2uYF_7bJP3dDNPbaOYft07F-x60kk6mtrrf-dr7hzH4dM8URqpHV6UV8UFbbik8797sxxVv6fzeuZQNOnbctGj5R9pC3_cpsZvEr75WIw0VCu-m8kMphfdM9bzm_bhF6GKDao1gJnEV9/s400/Claires+Camera+011.jpg" border="0" /></a> Anna and Andrew's class at Whangeri Heads. There were some sad faces on this last time with them. We had a wonderful community party that my friends Rene and Sharmaine from school put on for us. We showed a video with all the amazing photos of the kids in the various school activities from the last year. I think the whole community was stunned by how much fun the school kids have in all the hands on activities. We were stunned by the outpouring of love and support from the school families we have shared this year with. Rene's Mom had a near fatal car accident the day of the party so she couldn't make it. We continue to pray for her recovery. Sharmaine and I had wanted to hike up Aubrey at night to see the stars but had to settle for an early morning hike due to cloudy weather all week. We talked about God and watched the sunrise at the top. It was a hike I will always treasure as a memento of our friendship in Christ.<br /><br /><div>As you can imagine the last few weeks have been busy. We had a wonderful time our last month in NZ but found time for blogging was short. There were lots of goodbye parties, hugs and tears as we parted NZ for home. After spending the first night on an airplane across the Pacific we missed our flight out of LA. After a few hours for a nap and a bite to eat at a close by hotel we spent night number 2 on the red eye to Atlanta then on to Knoxville. Better late than never we arrived last Sunday morning with smiles and hugs. This week has been busy trying to set up a household and get our days and nights straight. Our address is the same 1523 Bickerstaff but we have a new home phone of 865-474-1258. Can't wait to share more in person. e-mails are still good at pnichols@summithealthcare.com</div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-84548276744413767682009-04-13T07:59:00.009+12:002009-04-19T21:33:42.943+12:00Easter- Alive to God<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326325562381949346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgzeo2lPmvAm6T95IQ3tHrM_VoAicNl6jBTxXjDp3t6amQEIpPf3Vefv_6xP-FE3g6DxkoAp8CCINR_o1GBXhhm2jikbRKa8w6tv8voaBuFFxxU4LslDPMZElmeYOyUjl8h8imlvgby09/s400/IMGA0144.JPG" border="0" /> Easter this year was made extra special by a 3 day visit from the Neimer family, our friends from Charleston, SC.<br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326323133138748194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V0MuqO0rn8IClYIvvsgoToHJtc3Gh6XEYNXUNbbSos92RCKYtvfGz1xebKQZUn21iCUglN2CHF37C4Cct21Fve_5DmOYClJLLlsJvQjnCMi5oHOEDbQgrdkONMgfiKyXpeiHtfEIm7xl/s400/IMGA0107.JPG" border="0" />The kids had a great time with Ross and Dugger. It's a special blessing to watch your friends have kids and then their kids grow to be friends with your kids.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326324488700781298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjak96V_vhBAKRbfWYib5dg7QMDEMjE-q2cI_kS3iN4RzwLT2_EqazYY16DjIF_MvGIDU_ET0QETmL97h7ibWfp3KAZ8Ylb8lL7tlkj8rv3E3Abdp_5PYYXKxSdkeZBglXL6KEEds1O-5So/s400/IMGA0131.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326323135916367538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC24SQsyBynOIAptgpg6DtB69Qm_92O4dEiTfdtYfU9Q1RFVG372q8SojRA_aNQMwy2WVUOUxfJK8Rbi30OKVA5M16thkuFUjIL8rfB18n0WYAujEla-opvRBmFB2_6jWPQQ9A7XiG_ZB4/s400/IMGA0108.JPG" border="0" /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326324484437693954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidz1hS68dfqBogpzrbyYfcTAnDnAQR9MsNITVAUNK-jU2KX1BUVbotJG1_SEzur36iqky29MnwdDKu-Yp3SWg_bF_LgOCrTLDN3nOw-KwXQbmjwCnln2igssiq2r-4YPvBDuUvIjpsTCwD/s400/IMGA0126.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326323137780543330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EFJUqbDO5M_kmQMlvUTcIax5pV0XqlCJdkC6QEs9dUOzaB_6dRyTsxwNJEid6KlGX2mxdfEE3FSz3OpjDXtceLA5iefEB3ICGQzdqo3F3rYe4Fo1CwLuypla86lV55HCGnArSAeT2Lft/s400/IMGA0123.JPG" border="0" /> We enjoyed an Easter hike that ended at Peach cove at dusk. The hike back included 800 plus stairs up a mountain side then a moonlit walk back to the car. It was all breathtaking, both the scenery and the hike!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlcEXhcO8n8TAqwZovqPeuqizPh-lJ54tN0qBmuNPldxATYrLIHIK3E44XN0gZQSInPST_ZAFJwzcgaH6ee9cf6iMH6jIDpxA4o1W8DIZlIx_bJPpAUJM04NEu6agR_gvt_RS0EPHDn6Q/s1600-h/IMGA0147.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326325560901297346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlcEXhcO8n8TAqwZovqPeuqizPh-lJ54tN0qBmuNPldxATYrLIHIK3E44XN0gZQSInPST_ZAFJwzcgaH6ee9cf6iMH6jIDpxA4o1W8DIZlIx_bJPpAUJM04NEu6agR_gvt_RS0EPHDn6Q/s400/IMGA0147.JPG" border="0" /></a> After Easter we rented a sailing yacht for a day trip around the Bay of Islands. It was great to sail around and talk. Sally and I can talk and talk and still feel like there is more we want to share/ask about but haven't covered. The guys are happy to talk church and medicine.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326326655096574226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabrw4UlkvQg_uoKyPGSL66hqkCFgiMdar1AfwSTJjBAZ_qoxNXV7SEZ4KuI7oxO7Qhe1bMDWyeLo4GUgvBUIbBTDMgVF4BdyXt-NC4b8x3r-MKs8XgWoqjeDROEZsCVH9liEdZ47oNBI2/s400/IMGA0151.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhof-LEgUNDMWjyj1z0XHkJ3T4tnpINFooT63aZ8hjbC1P92rsCRTlEOGLhOU9afcpSmlrxk5KlykgsjTkeK-5aBwTWsoxGe210KawoCYCngVz8dFeozrX1HjBBkEmJoFgvnNV8h0Lf_gxR/s1600-h/IMGA0140.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326325557670623858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhof-LEgUNDMWjyj1z0XHkJ3T4tnpINFooT63aZ8hjbC1P92rsCRTlEOGLhOU9afcpSmlrxk5KlykgsjTkeK-5aBwTWsoxGe210KawoCYCngVz8dFeozrX1HjBBkEmJoFgvnNV8h0Lf_gxR/s400/IMGA0140.JPG" border="0" /></a> We stopped for a kayak and beach walk on one of the islands. The kids loved hanging on the yacht too.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k52uULQBQZrU-TELpCrgcqsQncvwG0yALc59hiJphXdrtfmvRgZKqW40hxmfQqIVHuqV28QD8DTozpL__5p3pVUp5RFZGMV4DuAtX_AlvdCvx_Rnc2UqtvdSwYeLeacfzmMVaJurOlIA/s1600-h/IMGA0132.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326324493845055602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k52uULQBQZrU-TELpCrgcqsQncvwG0yALc59hiJphXdrtfmvRgZKqW40hxmfQqIVHuqV28QD8DTozpL__5p3pVUp5RFZGMV4DuAtX_AlvdCvx_Rnc2UqtvdSwYeLeacfzmMVaJurOlIA/s400/IMGA0132.JPG" border="0" /></a> We arrived back at the dock in time to catch this most amazing sunset come ablaze over 5 minutes. See the progression from the boys to every couple on the dock going for their photo with the sunset.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326326658214889250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztqvpU-3IsbKcI00gSSAzo2i0ak7knt3bbD5IGSaLI0ks_Rklb57U_1gJgsZx-IbePHjwOrSORHnV5KnQmHT1qcFYCDOMMlsIlrmM4rBMeh6EcR1eYfvLY3Xjl_4eRBOGLGVuQiNojl8W/s400/IMGA0155.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326326658519747250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisKik0xz-qbaewc86kWyb3I_StEf0fFClX8a3ljvVpCNRlCYKF_RRWa8iRdP4R0l4qBZAyP3-15xpuXQdWJ9WfNMBimphAJUc8z2VyTy0UAQ00qBGnB3lzkrGueWStIdFaXtTiXbDImX25/s400/IMGA0164.JPG" border="0" /><br />Below were some reflections on Easter morn.</div><div><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><em>For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead , death no longer has mastery/dominion over Him. The death he died he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives HE LIVES TO GOD. In the same way count yourselves dead to sin but ALIVE TO GOD in Christ. </em>Romans 6:9-11 </div><div> </div><div>Happy Easter. I grew up in a Presbyterian Church where Easter morning people would say to you, "He is risen" and you reply, "He is risen indeed." </div><div>The resurrection is so powerful. We have access to God himself. The gift of eternal life is not <strong>from</strong> God as much as it is a gift <strong>of</strong> God Himself. <strong>He</strong> is the life. We enjoy His presence now through the Holy Spirit and in heaven more fully later. He doesn't give us comfort but He gives us Himself and <strong>He</strong> is the comfort. We don't seek power or a good life as much as we seek <strong>God Himself</strong>. <strong>He</strong> is the life and the power. We are "Alive to God" because of the resurrection. Enjoy Him and reach beyond wanting what He can give us. Reach to Him. That is our response to the forgiveness we have because of the cross. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-60994583968662071322009-04-11T07:47:00.008+12:002009-04-13T07:59:29.689+12:00Good Friday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kMAQbVYzY09jfAy73BAFRzMIzlrAHqqTtCIEaeihnxxH1WsJGUJP1A70lozYvY-Pcz6j8sZIwbclzclx9rTGiPNWkj_3T-7Gar6sWJ__gQnV0ZWWJ5Osj_FJIHLlxY6ggFU77wgnB7lg/s1600-h/jesus-riodejaneiro.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323178837765481762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kMAQbVYzY09jfAy73BAFRzMIzlrAHqqTtCIEaeihnxxH1WsJGUJP1A70lozYvY-Pcz6j8sZIwbclzclx9rTGiPNWkj_3T-7Gar6sWJ__gQnV0ZWWJ5Osj_FJIHLlxY6ggFU77wgnB7lg/s400/jesus-riodejaneiro.jpg" border="0" /></a><div><em><strong>How Deep the Father's Love For Us</strong></em></div><br /><div><em><strong>How Vast Beyond All Measure</strong></em></div><br /><div><em><strong>That He should give His Son For us</strong></em></div><br /><div><em><strong>To Ransom us His treasure</strong></em></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Some may recognize those words are from a song. It was Good Friday yesterday and a Holiday for all in New Zealand. The grocery stores were closed. Most restaurants and cafes were closed. The gas stations were open and busy with boats filling up and heading out to enjoy the beautiful Fall weather. We went to a 10 o'clock service and reflected on this Holiday that for many Americans is just another work day unless you are Catholic. Some of you may know Good Friday is the calendar day that some Christians reflect on Jesus' crucifixion and death. I think many may remember seeing a Passion Play or the Mel Gibson movie The Passion and feel uncomfortable seeing the torture and crucifixion scenes. The English word "excruciating" comes from the Latin root words "like the cross". "Good" Friday is a somber holiday. In yesterday's service I was struck by a few scriptures that I wanted to share. </div><br /><div></div><div>Luke writes and tells us the night before Jesus died he ate with his 12 closest friends and followers and said," I have EAGERLY DESIRED to eat this Passover (Jewish Holiday) meal with you before I suffer." He knew what was "excruciating" and yet was eager and desired it. John tells us he earlier had said, " I lay down my life only to take it up again. No one takes it from me but I lay it down OF MY OWN ACCORD." He chose of his own will.</div><br /><div></div><div>After doing an artwork representing the cross during the kid's church, later last night Anna asked me who killed Jesus and why did they do it? One of the older kids who had been in the main service told her, "Jesus killed himself!" I had to ponder the suicide comment but straighten out a bit that he allowed it, even eagerly desired it, and "no one took his life from him". In His authority He took His own life by "laying it down" of His "own accord". I can't blame the Romans although they executed Him. I can't blame the Jews even though many did not recognize Him or understand Him so sentenced Him to death for blasphemy. Scripture teaches He Himself decided. Even at the point of death while on the cross he said in Luke, " 'Father Into your hands I commit my spirit.' When He had said this he breathed His last. "</div><br /><div></div><div>Why did he do it? Our pastor yesterday was struck by the friendship Jesus offers. Jesus' words are "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends...I have called you friends." Jesus told parables about hidden treasure in a field and someone going to sell all they had to buy the field meaning that we are a treasure and he gave His all, His very life for us, to buy us.</div><br /><div></div><div>Ok so I can answer Anna that He <strong>chose</strong> to die out of love for people but it's the why did he have to die part that is a little harder. The bible describes a mystery I don't fully understand. I have learned through experience that mankind is imperfect. I can see that <strong>I</strong> certainly am not perfect. Many I know can appreciate that there <strong>is</strong> or at least maybe a God who is Holy and perfect. The Christian faith is based on belief that something miraculous and mysterious happened on that Friday. Some how spiritually God himself took on our imperfections and paid the penalty of death for it in our place. Not that we won't die physically, obviously we still do, but spiritually we can live on with Him in heaven. The bible describes this miracle in many terms: Jesus taking on our imperfection(our sin), paying the price of death for it, taking our place in a sense, paying the ransom for us as if we were stolen or kidnapped by our sin, redeaming us back to Him as if our imperfection seperates us from God's holiness, atoning/satisfying a just law that we couldn't follow or satisfy no matter how nice a person we are.</div><br />When I was 18 I had an epiphany that I could not be good enough, perform enough, do nice things enough to gain God. I had spent a lot of effort trying to and had made a lot of mistakes along the way. Religions all over the world through out history have been filled with people trying to appease God in some way. Humanity has made statues to honor gods, festivals for them, dances and parades too. I remember many years ago standing at a Mayan ruin in Mexico. At the site Mayans had made human sacrifices in a large pit in order to gain favor from their gods. I recently saw a documentary on Hinduism where still today ellaborate parade floats are made to various gods in various cities. The idea of Christianity is different in that Jesus did the appeasing and was the sacrifice that satisifies any wrath from God over mankind's action. Through belief in Jesus we gain that forgiveness not because we are good but because He is good. It is what we refer to as "Grace" or God's favor and goodness to people even though people aren't perfect.<br /><br />Many I know reject Christianity because they think it is a religion with a judgemental code of do this and don't do that. There is the misperceived idea that you better pray and not have fun or a mean God will come down on you. They get this idea from Christians who pray, don't seem to have fun, are mean and come down on other people. Many people in history have claimed the faith and then done some pretty horrible things. It makes me sad because I know that I don't always reflect the true message of God's love for something He treasures but instead pray then turn around and come down on someone who doesn't do what I think they should. In truth Christianity is a love that lead to a sacrifice on His part on our behalf for a reason that is hard to fully grasp.<br /><br />The forgiveness because of the cross is extended to the whole world, all peoples, every tribe, every nation, every tongue but it must be accepted by an individual. Each man works out what he believes in. The bible teaches even if he has even a little faith (as much as a tiny mustard seed) in Christ he is forgiven.<br /><br />Many Christians I know can pin point a moment in time when they started believing while others remember a process of wondering about it for years. However faith develops it always has moments of doubts about something. Faith in Christ leads to a freedom from do this and do that. "He forgave us all our sins having cancelled the written code with it's regulations that stood against us. He took it away and nailed it to the cross" is the message in Colossians. This frees us to just BE with God in a relationship of friendship because of mutual love.<br /><br />Christian life is not attending a Christian church or being born in a family or a particular nation. It is realizing personally your not perfect and Who is? Becoming a Christian is having a tiny bit of faith that God forgives our imperfection because of Jesus' death on the cross somehow in some way. It is a response to the forgiveness and love God has shown me personally. Christian life is as simple as the verse "To love your God with all your heart, mind soul, and strength and to love your neighbors as yourself." We can't even fully live up to that one but there remains his grace and forgiveness as we try to pursue a relationship with our friend God and a love for other imperfect people who annoy us.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-91231495444808350832009-04-02T22:54:00.009+13:002009-04-03T00:39:08.214+13:00End Of Summer<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320040573433669186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmWcRg9Bd_OndeI0x1wvEnNgEnhryGUnfHpbC8M27EhxUPJZNH5epcScY8VyCEIo1xfs2_aADO848pvzfrlJjTaZIrg31y4rcNV-bltbg1NU341OibxsJWKWEvvyq8xSxgx0ZVfn5qEEDd/s400/IMGA0955.JPG" border="0" />Andrew, Sharmaine, and I were enjoying the last days of summer on the floating swim platform at our house in the Bay. I have a wet suit on and am sliding back into the water. Lynn had just driven up from work and had the camera in the car taking pics of his commute home. I included a few at the end of this entry. We all have enjoyed dipping into the bay on these last few days of warm summer weather. The water is actually warmer than mid summer but still cold enough for me to put on a wet suit. Usually I opt to enjoy the sunshine and a book from a nice warm shore rock while I watch the others laugh and play over the page's edge.<br /><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMt5IQYUz5TZ-eSjsEimZTdjTzejHMi_Pf2XRtYxZYWiWgiWcxumhe3DVfTIQEfZfs-Yn7dRyofz-K5wmmEfOsWP6Gcq0ISEn04KlsehL1dduch0rwBQcS_Z90oOfeV85VFG9Oa3SbzB5p/s1600-h/IMGA0891.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320040570490845554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMt5IQYUz5TZ-eSjsEimZTdjTzejHMi_Pf2XRtYxZYWiWgiWcxumhe3DVfTIQEfZfs-Yn7dRyofz-K5wmmEfOsWP6Gcq0ISEn04KlsehL1dduch0rwBQcS_Z90oOfeV85VFG9Oa3SbzB5p/s400/IMGA0891.JPG" border="0" /></a> In this shot our little bay has the tide out. We walked back down our street after karate where Andrew takes lessons on Thursdays at a community center/hall at the street's end.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320049055457435922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtje3lDya7qLcoHlnHt1KatUy8PCP9wRV5-rTtw_V1OjRZCgUNPgZRMaMX-KBs1CeSQfvSnlfo983zPls6aAIHpDc9k-6HEhczK2yUHEVhMH1w8bLDwJt_n-3AZnZYvOffegBDcXFTXIf/s400/IMGA0890.JPG" border="0" />This day Andrew brought a swim suit and changed for a swim after karate. The little white building behind is where the community hall is located. I think some folks are trying to put together a going away party with our community friends. Anna and Andrew's class is throwing a party for them Monday. Many have been so good to us and seem sad to see us go. The swing is wooden with "Swing Low sweet Chariot" written on it.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSwSCz3_hUk5W5WjKh5SBVNfZFsqtSiGPs24dVAfMLzD5By6V_rv5s1RuqL-K9XGpLt_-95Tl3x6SFRCAFE7uSkxapD2XspaGwLYJODVk28TvjpJV0s9C1wxS3IvMMcYVANx0WQMngfbN/s1600-h/IMGA0892.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320038871097970546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSwSCz3_hUk5W5WjKh5SBVNfZFsqtSiGPs24dVAfMLzD5By6V_rv5s1RuqL-K9XGpLt_-95Tl3x6SFRCAFE7uSkxapD2XspaGwLYJODVk28TvjpJV0s9C1wxS3IvMMcYVANx0WQMngfbN/s400/IMGA0892.JPG" border="0" /></a>We were walking home after karate. Like at home after school activities mean there is always waiting for siblings to finish lessons. These kids were waiting for karate class to end. They all ventured towards the waters edge with us and collected about 20 or 30 hermit crabs from where the tide was out.<br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQ9AIzZsGsFkJbPWDSslpwn-ALrO2MGTOi5_r15akM9y2VcnprdwXafUUq4kWbiuPEp2X1UT-9CvKXVMDZUdxGTtu_KnhGLNrz2imA3K1Qlm7T7ZG2LpH-diYsrkpDZugYo6gPkcSPe6u/s1600-h/IMGA0878.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320035549342541794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQ9AIzZsGsFkJbPWDSslpwn-ALrO2MGTOi5_r15akM9y2VcnprdwXafUUq4kWbiuPEp2X1UT-9CvKXVMDZUdxGTtu_KnhGLNrz2imA3K1Qlm7T7ZG2LpH-diYsrkpDZugYo6gPkcSPe6u/s400/IMGA0878.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is the kids' school sign. It's a very artistic school with a teaching philosophy of learning what interests you and promotes your own creativity. The kids have enjoyed it but when we get back we may need to review some time tables and spelling words if you know what I mean.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KDBFgHsEMKNIYCyfw1d9GTTzVVZD3eeLikaFRUZGSwH7O5ofvhJXn0KrhjCBHIbVaZ77AMXkLlC5fGnG5Nda7AHkK-23IGM8KIRdeOz9y2qOZITsxQ44IPd7leffQ0FaJQV7QSA481pn/s1600-h/IMGA0876.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320035545952886850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KDBFgHsEMKNIYCyfw1d9GTTzVVZD3eeLikaFRUZGSwH7O5ofvhJXn0KrhjCBHIbVaZ77AMXkLlC5fGnG5Nda7AHkK-23IGM8KIRdeOz9y2qOZITsxQ44IPd7leffQ0FaJQV7QSA481pn/s400/IMGA0876.JPG" border="0" /></a> Claire, Hanna, and Maddie as they were waiting to take off for the class overnight trip to the marine reserve at Goat Island. Claire was excited for days! You can see the soccer field at the school in the back ground. Claire is trying her feet at soccer with these gals for our last month here.<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320032258840703810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkNS-dSHZCTW-ggeePNfwuy7BBTW8axFO2sab1pK-QaSVVSfQvC-KAR1QzS12-t6EOyahapuOTluIEDmzAouTrFqoogoIeISRU4eAZ_SMTARit9-BtigaHSECnGvbRSb9gkkgSku5rcaDy/s400/IMGA0875.JPG" border="0" />This is Toby Greenwood, Claire's super cool dude teacher this semester (you can't see his pony tail in the pic). He is standing under the awning in the school assembly area. He and his wife Merrin (from Alaska) just had their second child. We got to meet her family when they were visiting from Alaska. People here are pretty laid back. Last I heard they were still thinking through names and the baby was born in January. We got a kick out of some of the options they were trying out. We had to throw a few fun suggestions in too. I can't even pronounce and have never heard of half the names here. I do know there other daughter is Isis and I have heard of that name. I think it was an Egyptian goddess and there was some 70's show about about a super hero.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKjN5jSeyfhbk1JoazEzMbvVb75GVzf1zs_i30H80cZBYPrWbteg35rC7uNHO9QfMx9zGR1rGbdW-M2vnGmcuijyhTbFj7G-Of5h7Vbd5oqtUJHk724V-cKaXcv5JY-m_U8ENP6VnQn8K2/s1600-h/IMGA0872.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320032256067810370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKjN5jSeyfhbk1JoazEzMbvVb75GVzf1zs_i30H80cZBYPrWbteg35rC7uNHO9QfMx9zGR1rGbdW-M2vnGmcuijyhTbFj7G-Of5h7Vbd5oqtUJHk724V-cKaXcv5JY-m_U8ENP6VnQn8K2/s400/IMGA0872.JPG" border="0" /></a> Anyway here is Claire with her muffins and some of her friends just before leaving for camp.<br /><br />Lynn decided to take a series of 3 shots on the way home from work a few weeks ago. The commute is worth looking at but he says the distance is getting hard. When you see the photos I don't think you will feel much sympathy.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320043892348588322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gd4xk8ciCfCPOq29p-XCYsohmjGwXemHKuDWCmQFLBbI8LRCBHsrEnj8WRC51lGI09j4H91dJT3r9VesBJCujA_mTspRdqv2Ykpo6hqX6sJsDK6BAYJZ48w22APgsxWvci0Peanr1HHW/s400/yachtbasin.JPG" border="0" />After leaving the hospital you cut across a few blocks of "downtown" and swing by the yacht basin.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDb4VKKz7sGEHy4kw5DGBfZZSTP8CAX6sBDhlFtRsLjtfd1wTZ3ONtAHAAXv4fuhjQsm4jZjw9SFYMUpf2Axfg5Q3P_GdjQT2B-T83kn5amtIdVKopLKxpxigGm5Q0XXSl75t8xNBKlaVs/s1600-h/commute.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320032253795595490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDb4VKKz7sGEHy4kw5DGBfZZSTP8CAX6sBDhlFtRsLjtfd1wTZ3ONtAHAAXv4fuhjQsm4jZjw9SFYMUpf2Axfg5Q3P_GdjQT2B-T83kn5amtIdVKopLKxpxigGm5Q0XXSl75t8xNBKlaVs/s400/commute.JPG" border="0" /></a>The view on the way home about half way from the hospital. Remember we live at the base of the Head-like rocks on the mountain to the left.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320041896644147570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpy0JAvqBR8lVGRSjrrOl3WVLQ4lrvI752yZJvTaZKCeB_EYOqVbaIeXtGUjQ9Gp3fwXjPgm4Kh9TWrLOj5xDKiu_KCSK7Vib8EK9Zw6whzef3qUK0he-w7JTKyN8qJiDQdrR4ctFgOACs/s400/mailbox.JPG" border="0" /> The view from our mailbox here on Stuart Road. The swim plat form is a little to the right but out of the photo. If the Hatmakers would put in a pool it would really improve the mailbox view at 1523. They can use our backyard but the fence will have to go around the compound. The view on Interstate 40 is a hopeless cause but I do hope the construction was completed the year we were gone (Ha, Ha). </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-18052524936507603382009-03-31T10:17:00.011+13:002009-04-01T10:09:36.173+13:00Hiking Around Northland<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319108782633158930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9ddtUhS1g-_cFv9_SxzVOtzYqfo1EUQc1K4RHFvRzQTzYItVagmzGbwlIwtEhYcAXIjxDWM4JXMW28_FHvI-NKr__tGsXMdwmZ6BIvrySpBwiFgEFwYXml_sQZH0Xf9OMjMPU4tTMAhz/s400/oceans.JPG" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxYOQSIbkmRLAsQpguUs9QJQZ_OP9MrSQOmrS2UYlAkCkqP6WSD83QdJPxZXYANbPLlQnC5r71bN5SCEh6DNZP5Hc8aXemvKHGVnyFlpaLrEH7oARZ1X_qWU6mnOaLZtWJxSihQ4Itmw_/s1600-h/smugglerstwo.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319111891556329554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxYOQSIbkmRLAsQpguUs9QJQZ_OP9MrSQOmrS2UYlAkCkqP6WSD83QdJPxZXYANbPLlQnC5r71bN5SCEh6DNZP5Hc8aXemvKHGVnyFlpaLrEH7oARZ1X_qWU6mnOaLZtWJxSihQ4Itmw_/s400/smugglerstwo.JPG" border="0" /></a> We have enjoyed a lot of hiking recently. Rene, her son Riley, Phillip, and I did a hike 10 minutes from our house going from Urquate's Bay around to Smuggler's cove. You could see Ocean beach off in the distance. It tokk a few hours but was a beautiful hike to the beach.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319094949983424242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlLj9GZ33ZOFTLZNII7x4iqUy9ulZbQyCPgchJFaEUu495b85EG3rmnM0vX42d-xWB6CMKoP7FZyLfpsiyXhgTvr8RKS99ne1vlnNhWG5IG9Rtwg8X-gKiHdDeRJAgmNaOUy5qqgpi5KS/s400/IMGA0879.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319094953063520370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvXz_1Ib3Gm5OKnz0s0J7uVE2L3aXPyKI1fQdLJkzigKAJcBOEGgKFer3AwnTE8SesVWorbMxR9sUQLhBYD1eIeZT2kNY36Cg-VjDAXhP3CBpbm7PMDGVRBuf0uAADwk2WHoYSn07pLky/s400/IMGA0884.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAQrigPrLdP_t6Je0kK0RRbmuaLJEeX2r__C-kE_hLNTncVCfl_3EhYpUwKOKp0FLVRgmktI0QudR_FGCch4gPiK4a8BkcL6k_8380dPVDyqlZYp82T7VaLazIysY_Ty7FYsdsoS_Wp8E/s1600-h/smugglersphillip.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319111886561158066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAQrigPrLdP_t6Je0kK0RRbmuaLJEeX2r__C-kE_hLNTncVCfl_3EhYpUwKOKp0FLVRgmktI0QudR_FGCch4gPiK4a8BkcL6k_8380dPVDyqlZYp82T7VaLazIysY_Ty7FYsdsoS_Wp8E/s400/smugglersphillip.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lynn and I got away for one night for a much needed to retreat together. It's only the second night together without the kids the whole year. We stayed at a lovely old bed and breakfast an hour south of town in a place called Mangawhai. We laughed because some white New Zealanders say the name like "Maine-ga-why" and the Maori word/way to say it is "Mon-ga-fie". We had a great time eating at a French cafe called The Kiwi and The Frog named after the married New Zealander and French Chef that own it. It was the best meal in New Zealand and the best cheese plate ever! After dinner we walked down the remote natural beach and saw the most amazing stars in a clear moonless night sky.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319097501807783586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBd5d8WP0-mzSICiElYRH22X_SoF6K9T8jBJNSCiJ4crYryF8yCq7EN28vZWreptY84NFAcjqx17fUg61succnhbMSikS1wb5vukhuRSTJTaN8JXhriFpsCm3Jp2wJ-iBTQ7kC00qCDtsU/s400/IMGA0894mangaphai.JPG" border="0" />The next day we set out for a 3 hour hike across the beach and up the Bream Head mountain cliffs then back on a loop across a very rocky mile of beach. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319097512502990418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnO4-rgd6Vs8PTfwRXQ1Si_bQpeLNpk_H3Tp4hvvPRtNaGlE60jm8MGp3tN6-MNizopG4Ba4_HxXaUzLXgLoxFiXpJepxTsOfwWo2zX_x7XdP4FkrVE_NOUuZUsMV58by_dzM3OHL4mWQ/s400/IMGA0910.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319101902272361746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSFTwoxAH3WYDULkn7w4HlETCCUiB68aQ9w1Yr4xQUUEG2rcjInKFo_PE81VfrOjZXf1iJEQWvwsEWkHdpJuBXsNpLF1IzUAecqJYNRG2pMYyIyQh2AkNvCZbxQ3S_S056YWQy34r8UmvF/s400/mangaphailynn.JPG" border="0" /><br />This is Lynn before we headed up to the top of the cliffs. The beach behind him is where we saw the amazing stars!<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319101899193087794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWG-awms8TPPHIqBWGLnM2ZcKxxHKE0w_hy982S8jtbIFP2TqLESGO9GraPSN23CERM-WEdFq6kS_HiRnEJwyXNF5M-gL7Y5fdbs00GbhBUbXdkVZp2GbNONDdSzP7ynHRYL12T1mlLhDP/s400/mangaphaiclifftoocean.JPG" border="0" />(Above) This is along the tops of the cliffs. The mountain off in the far distance is the Ocean Beach area we live next to.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319099736113747106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipeMrHzc9e9jecuZeQpSDtSjdrZQJYxPFC70BOmxOzq5VZvBC9ixsyy3K-GuTXl-78UaPzlLlH0noLHw0kystGOa3Sa-krc53D__WLlCWxu3MSeXEMmF1EHgNkOqsYuL0aoQdUmOeBGVOz/s400/mangaphaibeach.JPG" border="0" />The view looking back at the Mangawhai surf beach from the cliff tops (above). The trail went through a very lush tropical forest where Lynn took the pic of me (below).<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319097509280935442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3TSzwaFQ4STy_N7UW7rOORGPpLkCRHXunSeY3E_HgMcQ6HMADsltLIQgv3YCNrRJ2HzbpXgIG7mgcJ_svKSJDAJAFReBpGnmFVlK973WYYQl-4Dff81okO6WlsqLc0WnlIQEgq1QXj3be/s400/IMGA0906.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319108795841083794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSygtZzrgTUlR_xzm1pT5OPDE5hRE9b175IVijemvqTCTyRgAKGObdolsJVvpgRGvy12eTaIxqC1eJfxK2QBqKU92_Cmj9DOV9mOjfAEZu6XX2g36VRonp9XlVAZblB197VkBb6FcSOdx5/s400/rockywalk2.JPG" border="0" />I had hiking shoes on but you should have seen Lynn's size 13 jandals (aka flip flops) along the beach rocks for the last hour or so.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319099730722844866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLo_K3rdNJjA840yb_bXHCWcrVaCPxvNUt07Az72CWDGNJhob1x90CR7nDVAAnxT9HAGtgCd2wPeq3Rp0KxwfJtstzbqw0lxQYdW7Vq8QVE812QVu1bQt4k8NbnjLtO-0jfXFpGsnPrc62/s400/IMGA0915.JPG" border="0" /> There were amazing amounts of shells on some areas of the beach. You just walked for 100 feet of nothing but shells. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319161651416825010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL-AXXzbdFoFX9O5N2f01Y5fCzVbMXLVne0Xp9pjiZW3wkpB9xM_VKmQCm5V468eRn92Kewaa5jtjecVHBxFM4UtU9MJ7_od9qEIA9nlNbdDcjAKhMxHu79-4tkntaTSS4sNcuMGFyjXxS/s400/IMGA0924.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>This parking lot at the trail head and surf beach is indicative of the outdoor lifestyle here. The kayaks, walkers, surfers, and bikers enjoying the vast great outdoors New Zealand affords.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319101905246110338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJBbmOqLJ93HsCjenPRKrf6n4jD2y5y8bm4SAUjQsN8KunRUSvac5prtnk1WUk3_YVZ0cvdovPXO5Sj5TtKNHSe1_7UHZHjHyRQ46Iq37Bzb2T2rhfXzsX5OSH8qDN451_TBdq5jQA5EF/s400/NZfun.JPG" border="0" /> Lynn often hikes the mountain behind our house (Mnt Aubrey) for exercise because in 30 minutes you can get a good stair climb heart pumping walk with a view at the top. Andrew and I went with him after dinner the other night and enjoyed a rest on the bench for a minute.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319099733034513362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlq_nPU3XUFs2MM0VqcNSAoaltvgN2gajLWplvg6jIH1hc8dhqjZV26SzqaZH1uDxlBDZ48VlUN3Ze2Yy5x_a4dHCrGe_iK0Sg8UST1N6Kuyyrzw6vlGRpItIrnBuQlEMZM7rA9BqdJ1P_/s400/IMGA0933.JPG" border="0" /> The sunset view at the top was worth the hike. The hospital sits about where the sun is setting.<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdswzs8sa2mVmuXXnzYRZfgaOupVkN455eTNs6veUvEBq98vBMef9jz-xhWY-ZOMjojHqYo2ZIiqAn_m88__dvD9PMTrc6Z_IwGx6krXXW2k5A6HiHt-CIGq7offzhJJYqB1PWPCwqDtN/s1600-h/aubreysunset.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319094944990409266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdswzs8sa2mVmuXXnzYRZfgaOupVkN455eTNs6veUvEBq98vBMef9jz-xhWY-ZOMjojHqYo2ZIiqAn_m88__dvD9PMTrc6Z_IwGx6krXXW2k5A6HiHt-CIGq7offzhJJYqB1PWPCwqDtN/s400/aubreysunset.JPG" border="0" /></a> Our time here is setting too and it is hard in ways to think of leaving the beauty here and the people we have come to know but we are excited to see our friends and family back home. Please leave comments to let me know you were here. It takes so very long to upload the photos and encourages me when folks scan over them. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-78276625775477560172009-03-28T09:14:00.009+13:002009-03-28T10:43:54.994+13:00March Madness<div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317972660343735138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJt97rfrEMLI-K9jIxSCtCHMIvpdn3MI_Pa7U6Ni0gtQmFU8EH22XvDJqapuxzXaSkra05w61U7LK8SNS096e6QcPHu-L13k46auA9w_YRxInJzTf4jGSCQITf-2_NfW1DOaUcyqedoL8-/s400/Manaiasunset.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317965361213567682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjznfZMFp6oL_85xlff3VBa9uRC4zFRyE2u1EcZZF0MvNjoYCkEDK_-_i1QlJ9O5WjMfanlWAMzB0LjPkIpicT1w7l1uvNPkFlXUmuO7MwrgKdNmFCRaLVneIG9VmDsdYfYhvV_7HytH_EC/s400/snapper.JPG" border="0" />I think I am at least 2 weeks behind on the blog. With work, kids, and the approaching departure the time to blog seems to be sparse. In addition, my Dad has been in the hospital this week in the US but should go home tomorrow. I thought he would like these pictures of the recent sunset from the mountain walk behind our house. The sky has been so clear and beautiful lately with brilliant color at sunset and millions of stars on moonless nights. I wish I could get a picture of the Southern cross. The fish Andrew is pointing at is snapper which feeds at night. We look forward to a promised fishing trip with Andrew, Phillip, and my Dad when we get back. Lynn has been out once with some Phillipino people here I know through work. They fish all night but Lynn called it quits about 2 AM. The snapper is really good eating fish. Our neighbor Stuart gave us some he caught too. After a year on the waiting list his wife Sue had her brain surgery earlier this month. They are back from Auckland and she has been without seizures. It is a big change from the daily seizures she has been having. Phil and Rheba may remember them from the airport upon arrival to NZ. They were headed out for 2 different kids' weddings in England and Thailand.<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317972666158979746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 341px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WGnM5P0M89BzQgNh1j4rc5XcRUnhdKQPob1uuY5cBDvKikxsfDmh5WbkQ4CNWSqj1CE_EBYyh6h4wS1udhgmIx4ead4tu9BG3X-AszoPmHnFC4W4g5JP-dI1WjFnONsh8UtUMUIpxkjz/s400/pirategang.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317977234792029538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKxwwmjS3xppqLSCAXhQu5uMZrYD1JGZCxZzXxOzhEUOM0EYvnOGH8WcH-OBH2aEM_P9ZSrZp1qMgv054WfYCT02KYtCKh1T9mRG7imqSTXCCUQRJ1XO0U4n0P5ZyVLXDn8vVh7RdWjNY/s400/pirateclaire.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGCuSx2l9TtWvGjlKggzuBCBHNx05cKfeMPWnVTOEst1PY5U6dl-nmdJw05sWNcg8otmR7ugwMJu3h_FF2ci7F4rAFPsJIjsmsEhzqjkXAhmT0qznUypWtzQ6CIPQaX1isW52i9RWAEl36/s1600-h/pirateandrew.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317972663509734034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGCuSx2l9TtWvGjlKggzuBCBHNx05cKfeMPWnVTOEst1PY5U6dl-nmdJw05sWNcg8otmR7ugwMJu3h_FF2ci7F4rAFPsJIjsmsEhzqjkXAhmT0qznUypWtzQ6CIPQaX1isW52i9RWAEl36/s400/pirateandrew.JPG" border="0" /></a> A few weeks ago the kids went to a Pirate party. Andrew won for best costume because he took the great pirate ship kite my sister sent him for his Birthday last June. The kids have had a variety of friend's birthday parties to attend including a skateboarding for Riley Jack (Anna and Andrew's freind) while I as in Australia and the lazer tag party below for Naomi Abascal's 12 birthday.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317969402192709330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8tY0j2O58GKKaQ9sLI2Nvtk5qFelq_93dDAJmngevVznZBgjb3kbjv5HJrqJqQTTkJ0h4AevpCI1ngt6doNlg4hmC84VDdiaTLMqBOh9YeCi89bA2cogte4zYGFbuFaEfNywfp7RJbdN/s400/misc+014.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317969397273654098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbVLhNeu91RwDB35pxV-Da9Sm2Z-RzE6ecuvWuJnTN5kGHrVZdU_gVFCBIf-fY3-HaNeDNa2km8umraMs3dkVAbJ910rycQJ4ARFdh9iiOWzCvjyoigteUdeMvNbl_VqoL5zgLAyU8su5q/s400/misc+013.jpg" border="0" /><br />Church has been a blessing due to the relationships we have there. It is more like a small group but it allows us all to really know each other's faith in a mutually encouraging way. The kids have been blessed in this way too.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317964473952584610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2h3h5z3v-UjxNThkEjxY4lf6Gxgf5tINHZUrtNee5EMeLng_SI0QiR4UZSL6mlN0C9iniIDdjW7HKpwKNt_fichwNlg72edDNn98rTQy0pXwDRvUF52k-CnBWcLGMNvlEPvQICYGUOFL/s400/sundayschool.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFdu9oFyjr3bwfRgxeagGdf3UrdPNoqCHCkkBEQ50NUupvrcrC17gpmwxSbTOcGszer8ekvLk_9pq8EAE1jAmme8d1_P7UMPNOj8nymUMRdA8EmRjtvVVqe6eJIguR5oKSVx27ZA00Cce/s1600-h/pirateandrew.JPG"></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317964471981980050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcyjw78r7XKS1Na73h4ajlGJO41yQoCjHlDhTCzYPk2KphlB00Q3jG4HsNymBUAPFCrQZTcysnLvFGlNHNMvCm-U5ZmbCjAGY3Np6MpHwQF4_ORff8Gy0SsBvVPe20j4cliDdFTqbgOUDt/s400/WCF.JPG" border="0" /><br />Notice the Upward Basketball flyer. The church is starting an Upward League here as an outreach. Miguel brought all the materials back from California when they visited family last October.<br /><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIv0Y0fayCuWsKY5ABrp0p-SVYszKHfF2ToV8RQ4QMBG-WyRRCeK2EPi7wBfluUub2nRIlcVqTjoMA_HE-UEV_0LB3SWH6twcZ8qDhI8dKAhv-Z2c883ZnE0HPFrWsE4vDAmt5wB6Q-4Y/s1600-h/misc+007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317971352297608018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIv0Y0fayCuWsKY5ABrp0p-SVYszKHfF2ToV8RQ4QMBG-WyRRCeK2EPi7wBfluUub2nRIlcVqTjoMA_HE-UEV_0LB3SWH6twcZ8qDhI8dKAhv-Z2c883ZnE0HPFrWsE4vDAmt5wB6Q-4Y/s400/misc+007.jpg" border="0" /></a> I have two really precious friends and neighbors in Sharmaine and Rene. Rene is Anna's friend Brooke's Mom and has started watching the kids after school for me on the days I work. The above photo is Rene's son Riley who reminds me of my nephew Rhett and is almost the exact same age. He has speech problems and says "Dawn" so cute. Sharmaine's son Leo below is one of Andrew's best friends. He broke his arm sand surfing a few weeks ago and required surgery. They live up a little path behind our house and Andrew spends a lot of time up there. Sharmaine comes and visits over a cup of tea. I treasure our talks about what God has done in our lives. She has a beautiful story of God's redemption and on going emotional healing.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVeoO_np3YAlJrA0tiI51YrIpSELfbBkZtvnoPsnXH4lwzCgqNyTs2o4-X2FgHcAKIgBFvqezX21HdxiVnK79jUhuE2h4kmqi-iFaV1M9aS287oiFRvnCphZL3VCOOOEh1CDzaZMpJs4T/s1600-h/misc+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317971342664952818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVeoO_np3YAlJrA0tiI51YrIpSELfbBkZtvnoPsnXH4lwzCgqNyTs2o4-X2FgHcAKIgBFvqezX21HdxiVnK79jUhuE2h4kmqi-iFaV1M9aS287oiFRvnCphZL3VCOOOEh1CDzaZMpJs4T/s400/misc+004.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317967311094833394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh621e_Nt3riLdEWmRJj_4dBR_ou2wUxUWmSxu_yOJOoEkXgxOuo6ZsHEzGUZfc5vo1JcEe7Dj68PmxCmNG6reHCaAiTwz-hFGkO3RmDZNvmOdkgXHx18Kq4QQuJALv0G1D8QS1qgfi6FuA/s400/misc+003.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317967313000967954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLRBAP44dM4Rf87R26-RTD86pfsIa4w7nkvt7456_LLf0_O8OvRE438OxwrRk2aDz2szUyKEGA0PC7rporHV0WopKylwWUKkOCDhZKiBSYOrpLETYPYKm1Knh95ommHkShSqdVprQIUD2/s400/Pyles.JPG" border="0" /> Through common friends we met this wonderful family who have a ministry here and in the Phillipines to help families do devotions together. Their website is <a href="http://www.walkingwithgod.com/">www.walkingwithgod.com</a> where they have daily verses to print out and guidelines on how to get started. This is an area we have wanted to grow in for a long time. Colin Pyle (the dad) also loaned me Larry Crabb's book <em>The Pressure's Off</em> which has been really speaking to me about centering on Christ in the midst of things not working out in my life. I think all of us have times when we feel things just aren't working out to our hopes (illness, economy, relationships,etc) despite us doing the right things. If you are in a season of disappointment or struggles in some areas then I would recommend this book. In any event the below photos are from their local fellowship group at their house. Colin is able to independantly fund this ministry and is an amazing example of how a follower of Christ with large financial means can live humbly and give to others greatly out of love for God.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317967318288518818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rqFV9j1ZoGaFYEnctKwoHlni_yvUxP_SwPAYw4Q6xRq135N9UW_y3sVKwKs_H5eTT8Oxrsvsn6lRnJYbrmpMuhRwntqF5GLLvaBn03gtrwfFLytzsbQR0YWV2WQWHr_laJup6NGN-AbG/s400/pylessmallgroup.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4yFDZe_MfbCLCzR6FXKAvaZYkMMuYXOPvygbEzUQ7XHTmOWRVuDMDRt_raY6YeVeNZn1mrs5_uUzi-EDZ7-Qd1nHx0bj005wMuL8yy9YktFe8mTvtD1_9pVGCJyDY526pbGZkPqX9-cr/s1600-h/pylesshed.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317967312377453298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4yFDZe_MfbCLCzR6FXKAvaZYkMMuYXOPvygbEzUQ7XHTmOWRVuDMDRt_raY6YeVeNZn1mrs5_uUzi-EDZ7-Qd1nHx0bj005wMuL8yy9YktFe8mTvtD1_9pVGCJyDY526pbGZkPqX9-cr/s400/pylesshed.JPG" border="0" /></a>The kids love to go to the Pyle's because they have tire swings, a beach, a man made water slide, and a corn maze on the property.<br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317973869785588370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjklo7RRvEnzDHQ7N2bZpL6ftN7msGgdo9TVLUBG03pvXVjqcjIFbsOr8vTtOlmW2uIRUd32kDzgpNV3lbStifnFI5LAPDZfvOJr8lOelMZZopKeMH_yybEtMMr5XvFshxiAD8yyzle8Q3B/s400/pylesandrew.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317965363687618562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hUuFZ2a1w7gR6DWUzLJaBPvGJzRaydu1kVxII62GUjme7d8gCO7ENRx8PP3fNnPW9fmzGaFN3FbVJpzEOJvdBularCHs4W05xbToSCj3_8LqvYJLazy1pT1Wrzc3jGGLy_h1bkuPe0oh/s400/pylesbeach.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317973866829249698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw8cupwhGZpTmmAtsEcDqUKRAUimEIIfeAUHtMP6ZYJLSgumLWtrkn5wN13pj5eGdbIDdGjuvzXVzYAuaWAX-zm45yT8qjiFB59JPTBLxteh7-_uEM03-uB7rl5HuIcR2eGfQShy23Swfk/s400/pylespicnic.JPG" border="0" />Having a lazy swing at the Pyle's place is like Mayberry must have been. Peaceful! Despite the March Madness I think we have been more at peace.<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-84546138944951763372009-03-22T17:46:00.009+13:002009-03-22T19:05:58.688+13:00Sydney<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315879235925903890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYLTi_0h-5LsNwyk8tXKKoOoH2q0bFzcg8t57npmTrZshMRnA0P9sGa1Z6Jx_TGu0x9Ev4D0tbZkLgHp0DgSRasMbdrcQCjraog1O8uGFDJsq7rVB5H_b-TWTuYnoM5VOmhSWDu0BgEfg/s400/sydney+009.jpg" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkIf4ekgcT16qCSb87Ydv0aZMEY0ht2Zlu3PGWjneTqEQYdvbUL7L9KOoXTrl-mA5UuQjt3X5ETtBwlC8DMiowZmqmC768DjWQztDQL7Ac0mCPn6k_3k7Z0kvH16-sokiIqdomK-SPLg3/s1600-h/sydney+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315887971386224978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkIf4ekgcT16qCSb87Ydv0aZMEY0ht2Zlu3PGWjneTqEQYdvbUL7L9KOoXTrl-mA5UuQjt3X5ETtBwlC8DMiowZmqmC768DjWQztDQL7Ac0mCPn6k_3k7Z0kvH16-sokiIqdomK-SPLg3/s400/sydney+001.jpg" border="0" /></a> Last weekend Lynn watched the kids (took them to the circus with our neighbors) while I went to Sydney for an Australasian Pathology conference. I got to here lots of interesting speakers including the CMO for Seimens and the president of the College of American Pathologists.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIK0oawrWwfTQ1NVZEWoJ5t6YBdlK5bb9LDJscgHQcBQibaqc_W5r87-Azj-UF6UuqdmkW6wsCUt971XKpc8-If4RnsWf93XF_9slfOhQeBYMKEpqyizIdYypKyhcJ2HAO4w0aP2s8JsbO/s1600-h/sydney+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315886952834233570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIK0oawrWwfTQ1NVZEWoJ5t6YBdlK5bb9LDJscgHQcBQibaqc_W5r87-Azj-UF6UuqdmkW6wsCUt971XKpc8-If4RnsWf93XF_9slfOhQeBYMKEpqyizIdYypKyhcJ2HAO4w0aP2s8JsbO/s400/sydney+003.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidV4qJBfBNciom5DrmmhLXfOETVdI9easx0-wfZfsb5nEb3KzSzvbnO0FalH-Ml1MUDPcprjwU9eJzh6CSlmWtiaOPET8YRR1SlQc0LITCqUw9FHCi2QRdHy-fUvUIWIQAqsqbPn8PeYAu/s1600-h/sydney+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315886945237857858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidV4qJBfBNciom5DrmmhLXfOETVdI9easx0-wfZfsb5nEb3KzSzvbnO0FalH-Ml1MUDPcprjwU9eJzh6CSlmWtiaOPET8YRR1SlQc0LITCqUw9FHCi2QRdHy-fUvUIWIQAqsqbPn8PeYAu/s400/sydney+002.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqU8kkhm2UNFMOxAoXI3HQnWiAGDdDnevcsMeOdMDisFlOjxVf-EWjcyDNCzgksGZ0_0E11jcZ0zmfv0maFBtu6dJkxhMRd9X5UqhUdT5VNbsFS2sdlJPyC9YwDLR66CoMhtcbg1mFmDqf/s1600-h/sydney+006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315881122741477042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqU8kkhm2UNFMOxAoXI3HQnWiAGDdDnevcsMeOdMDisFlOjxVf-EWjcyDNCzgksGZ0_0E11jcZ0zmfv0maFBtu6dJkxhMRd9X5UqhUdT5VNbsFS2sdlJPyC9YwDLR66CoMhtcbg1mFmDqf/s400/sydney+006.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3mWsdZmIzSdj2MujRC0dZR2Ak8f7Ich3Jep_lS1woJ92SJpc4Rpvlt-gnYo-rVZ2wjgx1qtZ-L992VAmWzNNhLgElNFXVHYWrVr8suFJwEWHjUMLwDOgPeEfiD41xk3bd8bJLb2Hs75yn/s1600-h/sydney+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315881110306224274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3mWsdZmIzSdj2MujRC0dZR2Ak8f7Ich3Jep_lS1woJ92SJpc4Rpvlt-gnYo-rVZ2wjgx1qtZ-L992VAmWzNNhLgElNFXVHYWrVr8suFJwEWHjUMLwDOgPeEfiD41xk3bd8bJLb2Hs75yn/s400/sydney+004.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUx9vPuTxNs05Itr8H03-o3g5kgI7zGfW2o91wf_b-FXvpoYuR0fDng6cQJmPBqqDpq0r5woDBg5jLsc8NVur8GFOaeoPClA6112tgEVEfP4EoLgVI53lRhebF5-FTUIRTZ8uH97DX17Z/s1600-h/sydney+010.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315879228759738706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUx9vPuTxNs05Itr8H03-o3g5kgI7zGfW2o91wf_b-FXvpoYuR0fDng6cQJmPBqqDpq0r5woDBg5jLsc8NVur8GFOaeoPClA6112tgEVEfP4EoLgVI53lRhebF5-FTUIRTZ8uH97DX17Z/s400/sydney+010.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIKoYy7ty_UGi53JfTftXncbIoQIDUuK7f0Ygrjc0BqaAyrrXr_PFXTPdBa4QTXxJ44vhYad4OGjyc4kLcEfE5_OiqEe9oFm7eRTFVvTzgOl3cl8gcD2g_3uDQSihUMFDQx51q6wmHzt4f/s1600-h/sydney+011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315872868627492914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIKoYy7ty_UGi53JfTftXncbIoQIDUuK7f0Ygrjc0BqaAyrrXr_PFXTPdBa4QTXxJ44vhYad4OGjyc4kLcEfE5_OiqEe9oFm7eRTFVvTzgOl3cl8gcD2g_3uDQSihUMFDQx51q6wmHzt4f/s400/sydney+011.jpg" border="0" /></a> This is Manley beach where Nicole and Keith live.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5bzghD6nAYPbTCShd5aU1VaGL70WwCqGtvfBCXkz8LmTrkcg_TemvxHpkS5tqp9cxvkBg8H6_kpyl5ZG12bn6_l4myHScuetpSL9cHDstRVSQT7pI_6Le2Wa0hcMoevrOZvoCvJJLG7h/s1600-h/sydney+012.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315872861505306722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5bzghD6nAYPbTCShd5aU1VaGL70WwCqGtvfBCXkz8LmTrkcg_TemvxHpkS5tqp9cxvkBg8H6_kpyl5ZG12bn6_l4myHScuetpSL9cHDstRVSQT7pI_6Le2Wa0hcMoevrOZvoCvJJLG7h/s400/sydney+012.jpg" border="0" /></a> A highlight for me was going to Hillsongs where the message was on sacred joy. It was a well timed message for me as I have been a little blue lately over the job situation in Knoxville. May the joy of the Lord be my strength.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-58854768080981456902009-03-18T11:36:00.004+13:002009-03-18T11:53:57.012+13:00Sailing families<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQVKNUQySrsAl-Is3eeIj_5vBzb73FsDmvON9IShiNDCNokiyR_7oIa8EuTHpNvXnOoAQlWx8S33nmRDC5BxYK_ZloK65FgiyyCK8nOZf5H5S8KDznOxNFb93wUnCliM_fF_7j5hvmUwP/s1600-h/yamana.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314293523800413650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 203px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQVKNUQySrsAl-Is3eeIj_5vBzb73FsDmvON9IShiNDCNokiyR_7oIa8EuTHpNvXnOoAQlWx8S33nmRDC5BxYK_ZloK65FgiyyCK8nOZf5H5S8KDznOxNFb93wUnCliM_fF_7j5hvmUwP/s400/yamana.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I've been wanting to write for awhile about the "yachties" we have been meeting. In general, they are families from all over the world who have sold everything, bought a boat, and left home together to sail the world. I thought the words of an actual sailing family do their life experience justice:</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Sailing dream comes to an end<br /><a class="divRcpResROut" id="pg@pgpix.com" onmouseover="this.className='divRcpResRIn';" title="pg@pgpix.com" onclick="return(false);" onmouseout="this.className='divRcpResROut';" href="http://www.blogger.com/" type="SMTP" name="resolved" sdn="Peter Grant" nindex="-1" isgalentry="0">http://www.blogger.com/</a><br />To:<br /><a class="divRcpResROut" id="pnichols@summithealthcare.com" onmouseover="this.className='divRcpResRIn';" title="pnichols@summithealthcare.com" onclick="return(false);" onmouseout="this.className='divRcpResROut';" href="http://www.blogger.com/" type="SMTP" name="resolved" nindex="0" isgalentry="1">Nichols, Phillips L. II MD</a><br />Cc:<br />Attachments:<br />Hi Dawn and Lynn<br />Wonderful to meet and stay with you guys. Hope to see youal again soon</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Please excuse the round robin, it´s an attempt to make up for my slack<br />communication skills. You can see the photos on <a class="moz-txt-link-abbreviated" href="http://www.blogger.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.oceanfamily.net" target="_blank">www.oceanfamily.net</a><br /></div><br /><div><br />Final blog, Tutukaka, New Zealand </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Our sailing cruising dream is nearly over, all that remains is for us<br />to move on land after a little more exploring of New Zealand´s islands<br />and to get my yachtmasters ticket. Our three years living on Yamana has<br />been an amazing experience, we traveled over 17 000 nautical miles and<br />visited 21 countries. When I think back to how little I knew before we<br />set off it seems incredible how much I´ve learnt, from handling the<br />boat in tricky situations to maintaining every electrical and<br />mechanical system on board. At some stage I realized that in spite of<br />being only of average intelligence and dexterity everything I had to<br />learn or cope with I could, it just took perseverance and tenacity.<br />We´ve all learnt a tremendous amount, sailing in heavy weather, keeping<br />one´s cool in difficult situations, self entertaining over long<br />passages and perhaps most fundamentally embracing the unknown with a<br />sense of adventure. I shall never forget catching up with the kids in<br />a seacave to see Ruben dive 20 feet down then disappear into the<br />rocks, emerging through a 15 foot tunnel outside the cave. Or how<br />confidently Olive aged 10 steered Yamana between numerous ships in 40<br />knots of wind through a packed Panama harbour when we were short<br />handed. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Many people can't really imagine what it's like traveling by sailboat,<br />so here are some descriptions and answers to questions. For starters it's<br />not a holiday; for the skipper it's about half a day of work everyday<br />keeping up with the maintenance. All the regular tasks of living that<br />you take for granted in a house are so much harder in a small boat,<br />like cooking at anchor in tiny kitchen with so little bench space, when<br />heeling over on a passage even eating is tricky, let alone dealing with<br />meals trying to jump off the cooker. Washing clothes and getting on the<br />internet can be major time consuming hassles if not impossible in some<br />places It's very restrictive, you've always got to be mindful of how<br />much power or water is being used, often when someone walks by you have<br />to move your body for them to squeeze past, personal private space is<br />non-existent. As they say it's the most expensive way to travel third<br />class. Cruising can be very expensive and it can be very cheap, some<br />months we would spend less then $100, but if you have to replace sails<br />or engine parts then it adds up fast. The most expensive thing we did<br />was replace all the rigging, I did most of the work myself and it still<br />cost about US $5000. We seemed to have gone through a whole lot of<br />money but once the boat is sold it would average out round US $50K per<br />year, not bad for keeping a family of four and an old sailboat going.<br />One of the funniest questions people ask is "do you anchor at night on<br />an off shore passage?"; once you get going theres no stopping, we set<br />three hour watches through the night, every twenty minutes or less one<br />of us looks around for ships and squalls, checks the course and sails.<br />90% of the time we're at anchor using our dinghy as a car to go ashore,<br />visit our floating neighbors or go snorkeling. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Our scariest moment was being violently shaken by a water spout<br />(tornado over water , Blog: 22 June 2007). Our most dangerous moment is<br />a toss up between being swept by the current under a low bridge in Fort<br />Lauderdale as we incompetently got off the dock, saved by the boat<br />getting stuck on post which gave me a chance to get back in control. Or<br />nearly entangling our masts with a steel boat in 8 foot of swell when<br />our rudder failed. Our close proximity was due to passing lines and<br />equipment between us, we could only watch in horror as the mast danced<br />within each others rigging. (the full story can be read on 16th March<br />blog) </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Many people have asked us about home schooling. Alice did three days<br />and I the other two days a week, two hours per day, we had books for<br />maths and english which we steadily worked our way through. We had<br />some science and reference books for other subjects, we followed their<br />interest a lot and from the lonely planet guide books presented them<br />the history, culture and topical issues of every country we visited. I<br />also taught them to be competent crew, navigating, sail trimming,<br />diesel engines and rules of the road. They have fitted easily back into<br />regular school, enjoying the social and sporting aspects and coming in<br />above average in most subjects. The worst thing about cruising is the<br />lack of space and the best thing is all the wonderful people we've<br />meet, both among locals and the cruising community. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Sadly we're coming up to a round of goodbyes as our cruising mates<br />prepare to head into the Pacific. I'm glad not to have such a weighty<br />mission in front ofme Not that getting into land life is any<br />easier especially with our current economic downturn joining the rat<br />race and earning isn't going to be a cruise. We hope to take on a<br />franchise Test and Tag <a class="moz-txt-link-rfc2396E" href="http://www.blogger.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.testandtag.co.nz/" target="_blank"><http://www.testandtag.co.nz/></a><br />which should bring us a steady income with minimal management that will<br />allow us to develop my photography and Alice's healing work. We'll rent<br />a house before the winter comes then hopefully buy some land and start<br />building a new dream next year. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The sailing dream will never go away for me, besides buying a summer<br />sailing business in Russell I have a ten year goal of building or<br />buying a low maintenance, fast, spacious, sea worthy catamaran. That'<br />the only boat I'll have any chance of enticing Alice onto. Then<br />continuing our circumnavigation, there's so many more wonderful places<br />to visit and people to meet. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We have met a lot of inspirational people out there, like the family<br />crew of Summerwine who left England in a £6000 coastal yacht with an<br />£600 overdraft, five years later they are still going strong. Something<br />I hope will arise from our sailing adventure and blog is that other<br />people will be inspired to step out of the main stream. If we can do it<br />anybody can, you don´t have to be gifted and wealthy, merely willing to<br />learn and step away from the safe secure path. Sailing is not for<br />everyone, there are many way to live out your dreams, to step out of<br />the box, perhaps now more than ever is a good time to set a new course.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Yamana is now for sale (click here to view <a class="moz-txt-link-rfc2396E" href="http://www.blogger.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.gulfgroup.co.nz/displayboat.php?Boatid=92621%26id_broker=19" target="_blank"><http://www.gulfgroup.co.nz/displayboat.php?Boatid=92621&id_broker=19></a>)<br />for a snip at NZ$168 000, if we are lucky enough to get a buyer it will<br />be sad to see her go but if not then I guess the dream will live on,<br />certainly the maintenance will. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I will most likely keep the oceanfamily website going and do the<br />occasionalupload to show our progress on land. I have for one reason<br />or other been pretty hopeless about staying in touch with most of my<br />friends so please help me out and let me know how you´re getting on,<br />talk about your dreams or just wish me happy birthday for the 17/3 <a class="moz-txt-link-abbreviated" href="mailto:pg@pgpix.com" target="_blank">pg@pgpix.com</a><br />tel 64 21 686820 or S/V Yamana, Tutukaka Marina, R. D. 3 Whangarei<br />0173, NZ </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Live your dreams. </div><br /><div>Pete </div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-89491035995677691942009-03-05T12:48:00.013+13:002009-03-05T17:33:24.689+13:00Kids Update<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309487398794637122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYwWAzOdALSJKubUQUztxvOkq2wdtqm4bmLJ7OQviFq9HhvyFgsEsd3JSs_gEGdjk8Au2OA_OY-najFcTTOHHShU6id2xXJIebiuj7xvkK4sudiQYJe9WYj72hFXvlJMDBWJDrfodSlRs/s400/marchNZblog+003.jpg" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyPgPLrd1WnoW0brWh1RF2T9dOlzMc4MwBgmEXyoeIjixA7tJ4oo3LGexRkygOLWr5EbLrF8STtXf787XaD_fkAr2pSiKLwG5dAkXcsP9tiEHXfmLVlZ-atnvlbHDtZxngK9WWgVittqo/s1600-h/tballphillip.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309502638495322178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyPgPLrd1WnoW0brWh1RF2T9dOlzMc4MwBgmEXyoeIjixA7tJ4oo3LGexRkygOLWr5EbLrF8STtXf787XaD_fkAr2pSiKLwG5dAkXcsP9tiEHXfmLVlZ-atnvlbHDtZxngK9WWgVittqo/s400/tballphillip.JPG" border="0" /></a>Kids have been enjoying baseball and T ball in town 2 days a week. Phillip has been playing catcher and really likes it.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1QSmwWA_jkXQ2EnpFj51MZRRW8ALsE6rYwM5Y_2mEd58K59oG1A9CdHBqyjWWhwJPtxoqw5LTfIs7M1_o1Gg4D4D1Zeq5RNfhz_jH7iXNSqnqHqFsd9eW0nukNwpjXmgNqKtPqd8Ovjm/s1600-h/tballC.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309502163990565234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1QSmwWA_jkXQ2EnpFj51MZRRW8ALsE6rYwM5Y_2mEd58K59oG1A9CdHBqyjWWhwJPtxoqw5LTfIs7M1_o1Gg4D4D1Zeq5RNfhz_jH7iXNSqnqHqFsd9eW0nukNwpjXmgNqKtPqd8Ovjm/s400/tballC.JPG" border="0" /></a> Claire is all legs and personality.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHYUt7jROlzXratvHOUvF1vqYylrSoF_GNOFhzk6shkXsY_QoQLqmaCj-jI14zaqe4tRH4woG0wl4GgSv89WLl77d_ZqUaoeC7H-l0kdfwtNR-g1qhXFUW3aALJfv20I7iR5xwZg61C1x/s1600-h/tballanna.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309502155560270466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHYUt7jROlzXratvHOUvF1vqYylrSoF_GNOFhzk6shkXsY_QoQLqmaCj-jI14zaqe4tRH4woG0wl4GgSv89WLl77d_ZqUaoeC7H-l0kdfwtNR-g1qhXFUW3aALJfv20I7iR5xwZg61C1x/s400/tballanna.JPG" border="0" /></a> Anna kills it.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwb1u8g9-F5fHzJ9iLM5x-XGmCmfg8OoyxcrRqGXF18zMY_Zmm9sBHutl49cgyyXObE84LI0VdFr2CT2yx7MQzKPHDQMblyHSj01a1OSHfFgG406rDFL1AueBb6hrvOHzTchGg1xBqlff/s1600-h/tballA.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309500557901056530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTwb1u8g9-F5fHzJ9iLM5x-XGmCmfg8OoyxcrRqGXF18zMY_Zmm9sBHutl49cgyyXObE84LI0VdFr2CT2yx7MQzKPHDQMblyHSj01a1OSHfFgG406rDFL1AueBb6hrvOHzTchGg1xBqlff/s400/tballA.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lynn is coaching which he really enjoys.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqC4gBUx0bQmAjwNXRz_1a5z0WZUOr2q9lLkHAi8T7hgVuuSBtsCfhtBLDXoXSFPqPdPob0ESsUwHgVPse56Iw50xftAM-pDf_sPrBQftvnMgMTMDRW0ANR35KcZt3mrdqlO2wJegKvTq/s1600-h/smoking.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309500552847336658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqC4gBUx0bQmAjwNXRz_1a5z0WZUOr2q9lLkHAi8T7hgVuuSBtsCfhtBLDXoXSFPqPdPob0ESsUwHgVPse56Iw50xftAM-pDf_sPrBQftvnMgMTMDRW0ANR35KcZt3mrdqlO2wJegKvTq/s400/smoking.JPG" border="0" /></a> Claire recently gave a report on the ills of smoking. The school assembly listened including many parents. Lynn and I were amazed at her boldness.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeQL-Xp2C3AA1anw1wqWXunmNxtspZpwrVmBGHWS5zRE3S43F_nmAYXt-l_jP2SaxJWkeONttwZxumZHVfdG2WtzREz5aaucOPBETFvBTURrX6zLsb8YZE90ykWsT503iFT8I56zF7HX_/s1600-h/marchNZblog+012.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309499801352162450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeQL-Xp2C3AA1anw1wqWXunmNxtspZpwrVmBGHWS5zRE3S43F_nmAYXt-l_jP2SaxJWkeONttwZxumZHVfdG2WtzREz5aaucOPBETFvBTURrX6zLsb8YZE90ykWsT503iFT8I56zF7HX_/s400/marchNZblog+012.jpg" border="0" /></a> Andrew is packing up his bag at the end of a day at school. In New Zealand years they are in year 2. Anna is actually in year 3 Math. They will come back to finish up a few weeks of Kindergarten in May and then on to 1st grade next year. Their reading is coming along nicely. I greatly enjoy curling up each night and listening to them.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgv1dMjZzDUySk7gMWjooxX3uhka0t5Tw7HB5X3jEGKYeFu0UM0q3Yp6ckIlDe1WdLfUc4cmoBOgIrCHfpm2wcVKwytA4-_x7a7iMallmcF_CSa-4Zn_rBgr7udIy1xmTdYw-nUk6nTR1/s1600-h/marchNZblog+010.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309499791790492930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgv1dMjZzDUySk7gMWjooxX3uhka0t5Tw7HB5X3jEGKYeFu0UM0q3Yp6ckIlDe1WdLfUc4cmoBOgIrCHfpm2wcVKwytA4-_x7a7iMallmcF_CSa-4Zn_rBgr7udIy1xmTdYw-nUk6nTR1/s400/marchNZblog+010.jpg" border="0" /></a> The schools here have a pool and swim lessons everyday. A lot of the education happens outside.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYgOzRfpv2PlM5UMPogIno7LaFmEFoc3yR5CyLWD23OFsehC_9ojynNTWGopN76W6shrSdX9AG9OpCZ7xRvqrnS9IV9RtjgtKSrojtVl5bXwVKQbxvYfReEg_uM_A9bKNPuEGhilot0Iid/s1600-h/marchNZblog+009.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309497672959570562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYgOzRfpv2PlM5UMPogIno7LaFmEFoc3yR5CyLWD23OFsehC_9ojynNTWGopN76W6shrSdX9AG9OpCZ7xRvqrnS9IV9RtjgtKSrojtVl5bXwVKQbxvYfReEg_uM_A9bKNPuEGhilot0Iid/s400/marchNZblog+009.jpg" border="0" /></a>I had a great time with Claire on a class field trip to Reotahi for snorkeling, hiking, and beach combing.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWC4aDcx9W5ezEllXub6gg0SD5vgY7vmYyGu5Bwq4ADkamhi7sYf9lHTLgVR5_p9be0H0Cd56s2HQEsCcZ9frnGXMkx-2JapjeGW3clf2F8WXOPRQsKccoM4dKmuqcM_BpaK5D-wkFZSwx/s1600-h/marchNZblog+008.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309497662838681202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWC4aDcx9W5ezEllXub6gg0SD5vgY7vmYyGu5Bwq4ADkamhi7sYf9lHTLgVR5_p9be0H0Cd56s2HQEsCcZ9frnGXMkx-2JapjeGW3clf2F8WXOPRQsKccoM4dKmuqcM_BpaK5D-wkFZSwx/s400/marchNZblog+008.jpg" border="0" /></a> The school classroom outside under the tent on the field trip was a great place to learn.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TGeT0kskI8wc3owLO13zuIIwD_zlZ7tQQeBxl3JBbptyUG2Yl_h-v5h7X5iAsQ2Odn3GtTfvvyMWyyICYa_iRh2_FmY9LRP6o8b58iyWs9i8nv78HC6DMOYSInAw9dMZd85CnIaPKKJC/s1600-h/marchNZblog+007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309494895386418434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TGeT0kskI8wc3owLO13zuIIwD_zlZ7tQQeBxl3JBbptyUG2Yl_h-v5h7X5iAsQ2Odn3GtTfvvyMWyyICYa_iRh2_FmY9LRP6o8b58iyWs9i8nv78HC6DMOYSInAw9dMZd85CnIaPKKJC/s400/marchNZblog+007.jpg" border="0" /></a> With clip boards in hand the students scavenged around to record things they found on how man has impacted the environment as well as items with certain qualities in nature.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY3NQfxyTBYdOpo2qZBi7ZNrsfayFeIjwJ-zMU7Y8KXidSaeTteLK3bkZvoSKxJ-WE5RAikCfhsw4u1GwDuJ3mKZcm-YK2lduR5ZlfembyJfQe00YEBIYwr-Bf2YvaCzvlyKjHeAIqS21/s1600-h/marchNZblog+006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309494884331098850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY3NQfxyTBYdOpo2qZBi7ZNrsfayFeIjwJ-zMU7Y8KXidSaeTteLK3bkZvoSKxJ-WE5RAikCfhsw4u1GwDuJ3mKZcm-YK2lduR5ZlfembyJfQe00YEBIYwr-Bf2YvaCzvlyKjHeAIqS21/s400/marchNZblog+006.jpg" border="0" /></a> I took this photo of Claire's group while we were on the nature walk through the preserve. Claire is on the right end in bluejean shorts.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtsO_MdxQrv-mpJC8grMJX-svf71gbK-ZgopobCy79lMXMDSdCz4xfguWxrET-7V63wwTCbeJX-lnpyOAgYBVTBFr5BwgV73tj6m-1wa9_-TrlbnMe4OeZN6PjC5pW6kDnHo88_0bu1Da/s1600-h/marchNZblog+005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309491918318820114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtsO_MdxQrv-mpJC8grMJX-svf71gbK-ZgopobCy79lMXMDSdCz4xfguWxrET-7V63wwTCbeJX-lnpyOAgYBVTBFr5BwgV73tj6m-1wa9_-TrlbnMe4OeZN6PjC5pW6kDnHo88_0bu1Da/s400/marchNZblog+005.jpg" border="0" /></a> The highlight for most kids was snorkeling through the marine reserve. I think we listed 20 or so species of marine life we saw during the excursion. Pictured left to right is Hannah, Cora, and Claire.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggT7v7e5MMf_p7zcCPkjEyBzNm8derwhw-Mou1xz_-uiN91ANWOPCELgJ2NAoR9nba95e-OdQle_DzbawjyND6uAsFl3tQroF2lOA8XjC-RZ8vW1HyslWW5X7EZFMHx2RmYP2cHV_KjyVV/s1600-h/marchNZblog+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309491924380803570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggT7v7e5MMf_p7zcCPkjEyBzNm8derwhw-Mou1xz_-uiN91ANWOPCELgJ2NAoR9nba95e-OdQle_DzbawjyND6uAsFl3tQroF2lOA8XjC-RZ8vW1HyslWW5X7EZFMHx2RmYP2cHV_KjyVV/s400/marchNZblog+004.jpg" border="0" /></a> Claire's group preparing to take off. They practiced snorkeling in the pool prior to this field trip. Next week they go for an overnight camp at a larger marine reserve. Schools here are very hands on in their approach to education. All subjects school wide revolove around a unit theme which for this 6 weeks is "marine life".<br /><br /><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309484497673751602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HfwDUI-sWib1_qEiYNny6Koh10NdwO40OZpjwTfi4Un_DXysQqSCrkUouLvfUyL2sulkzsmHxCCEgJyoZfmPHxeKvWOEEAF3si_S4QDARKwm-hPexVs6eEy2Uih_8eSMEw1JYSMG9txq/s400/chinese.JPG" border="0" />On the cultural side we celebrated Chinese New Year when we were in Wellington with Rus. It's the year of the Ox and below is a red gas producing variety in the New Years parade as well as the tradtional Chinese dragon.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwrpHi-WjbCD5oz58nkWl7SkxYPXjJ5k1CNol5VgYnGo5WNWZJvGm6u_ewUFmBrLk7H_D7y5PSuaBknTFkM395mOGX96vWehA1ocn-0VyjOgLBgQU-XI-v5PeBzW05X-cgtJBGsaM4_spb/s1600-h/chineseox.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309485256752715874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwrpHi-WjbCD5oz58nkWl7SkxYPXjJ5k1CNol5VgYnGo5WNWZJvGm6u_ewUFmBrLk7H_D7y5PSuaBknTFkM395mOGX96vWehA1ocn-0VyjOgLBgQU-XI-v5PeBzW05X-cgtJBGsaM4_spb/s400/chineseox.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309484509383187426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 289px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_QzhpkGW_JpISQLTQvhYH4ZYEkYI7zs6P-IuRxBuYID0CsxYRun5AGTtmsdgGD4MrYt9VezAms8ikneOZyjQHNnfXyWjY1_TQLEVHsyF845pATVhblFfjEbd633lFHZs84KtCurBjcwM/s400/chinesedragon.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQFZ-9ihCQmRkhaE5L82NgXizLGvK9zLpF0DZem5suTIZYRoBsI34G7WFQ6t-Gh82v0-JNLLA4EHWqlzOOwoNjXKaRjqYY9oJLxF_-uqxuC12j3TIV1Vw_XgVKiBNpSSbtGdP547wL76x/s1600-h/chinesewellington.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309485261744988418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQFZ-9ihCQmRkhaE5L82NgXizLGvK9zLpF0DZem5suTIZYRoBsI34G7WFQ6t-Gh82v0-JNLLA4EHWqlzOOwoNjXKaRjqYY9oJLxF_-uqxuC12j3TIV1Vw_XgVKiBNpSSbtGdP547wL76x/s400/chinesewellington.JPG" border="0" /></a> These smiling faces of Chinese children living in New Zealand are sweet. Unfortunately there is racial tension here. Many people feel Chinese buying fishing rights in New Zealand as well as their world wide economic spread is a threat. Last week I was riding back from a rural hospital with an Asian colleague when a car harrassed us. Two 10 to 12 yo boys and their Dad sped around us shouting Asian slurs, slanting their eyes, and flipping us off through several red lights. The end result was a police call and a trip to the station for my coworker to file a complaint. I felt so bad for him and it was a horrible experience for me to witness racism.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-Th0P2GBbzkwjc1iuokVuz3wItwOj4bbGm9XGcn4MdjjIgEkkn_xbJGtfDQM6zGLo9m4R6YR7EWWkAZ86ICZ-RGTsCj6OpWxX-lhGfTN6gnvPFKutIXn_ey2UkvlYswOU1yBTP63M8dT/s1600-h/chinesefaces.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309484515367922514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-Th0P2GBbzkwjc1iuokVuz3wItwOj4bbGm9XGcn4MdjjIgEkkn_xbJGtfDQM6zGLo9m4R6YR7EWWkAZ86ICZ-RGTsCj6OpWxX-lhGfTN6gnvPFKutIXn_ey2UkvlYswOU1yBTP63M8dT/s400/chinesefaces.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309485262073246850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1VFVaDrnEai3bkDtzpCiua-bjL24f6z8jF9xwllcCEDfpwHhEL-HYR_M1Avb7HM6J7wprGr_42sq5SIlCeCtAe5OiHXEJ-bsGBc0xAy03mD31qr-CyfNHGtopYVjgPORRZ-W88IinkEe/s400/maoricarvingTepapa.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>On a brighter note, a few weeks back we participated in a Maori youth camp with a Christian ministry to at risk teens. Miguel was the devotion leader and we helped out with break out groups to discuss what he shared. It was very interesting to get to know these kids and their culture a little. At the end of the retreat we got up to say Thank you for letting us participate. It was so funny because in the Maori culture we are expected to sing them a song. We hadn't prepared anything! After trying in vain to come up with something we commonly knew the Abascals and I muddled off key through Blessed be Your Name with great embarrassment! The Maori kids then got up and did an AWESOME haka.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-64707994909478330932009-02-28T09:52:00.003+13:002009-02-28T10:08:10.423+13:00Impoverished or AlmightyI have been feeling impoverished lately. Does anyone else struggle with moments of uncertainty and angst about the way things are going? Whenever we talk to people back in the US we get off the phone feeling scared and uncertain about jobs, the economy, and the future. Several events of late have just been difficult. My mom recently shared a message her pastor friend e-mailed her about remembering "in uncertain times we have a certain God". If I focus on what I know of God and what we have experienced of Him I am reminded he is present and Almighty. It is a daily chose to think about him, yield to His will, draw up to his presence, and take in the words of encouragement and peace he gives. Jesus called himself "the bread of life" that we need to "feed on". Like physical food for our physical body we have a spiritual need for a constant daily dose of God's fresh presence in our lives. I have felt discouraged and disappointed about the way things are going but I am trying to look up, take in, and rely on something beyond myself and my circumstances. I thought this message below from Oswald was befitting.<br /><a title="Permanent Link: The impoverished ministry of Jesus" href="http://devotiontochrist.com/4560" rel="bookmark">The impoverished ministry of Jesus</a><br />Posted by Oswald Chambers under <a title="View all posts in My Utmost for His Highest" href="http://devotiontochrist.com/dtc/utmost" rel="category tag">My Utmost for His Highest</a><br />From whence then hast Thou that living water? John 4:11.<br />“The well is deep”—and a great deal deeper than the Samaritan woman knew! Think of the depths of human nature, of human life, think of the depths of the ‘wells’ in you. Have you been impoverishing the ministry of Jesus so that He cannot do anything? Suppose there is a well of fathomless trouble inside your heart, and Jesus comes and says—“Let not your heart be troubled”; and you shrug your shoulders and say—‘But, Lord, the well is deep; You cannot draw up quietness and comfort out of it.’ No, He will bring them down from above. Jesus does not bring anything up from the wells of human nature. We limit the Holy One of Israel by remembering what we have allowed Him to do for us in the past, and by saying—‘Of course I cannot expect God to do this thing.’ The thing that taxes almightiness is the very thing which as disciples of Jesus we ought to believe He will do. We impoverish His ministry the moment we forget He is Almighty; the impoverishment is in us, not in Him. We will come to Jesus as Comforter or as Sympathizer, but we will not come to Him as Almighty.<br />The reason some of us are such poor specimens of Christianity is because we have no Almighty Christ. We have Christian attributes and experiences, but there is no abandonment to Jesus Christ. When we get into difficult circumstances, we impoverish His ministry by saying—‘Of course He cannot do any thing,’ and we struggle down to the deeps and try to get the water for ourselves. Beware of the satisfaction of sinking back and saying—‘It can’t be done’; you know it can be done if you look to Jesus. The well of your incompleteness is deep, but make the effort and look away to Him.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-67051789075862194832009-02-21T07:32:00.008+13:002009-02-21T08:14:53.517+13:00Lighten Up<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQu8J8Ct58Y_ifc8eYxmXFIkEH7VH39PblZJaWMoMkq9gSuxnYc_iOtYLb5kZdq5rehSAKRI0HTPubzuFCpS5W7yVW23U9cD6sA1va36KqIw6jTlmAJPK9FUwJrJPJcflTxeEvrZeDeWHW/s1600-h/IMGA0745.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304958813976249762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQu8J8Ct58Y_ifc8eYxmXFIkEH7VH39PblZJaWMoMkq9gSuxnYc_iOtYLb5kZdq5rehSAKRI0HTPubzuFCpS5W7yVW23U9cD6sA1va36KqIw6jTlmAJPK9FUwJrJPJcflTxeEvrZeDeWHW/s400/IMGA0745.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNahuJf8Ny7d9azY50rPjJfsb2PY52nB9fcinW9yGryW5K9pfUlw9SdXol1GxAq3Wkt9DYP-QQqVngbzxbb-7X7mINy69YhkxjC6uIg3Q3t5sxhqTssdm_JgqZFigIgQXvsYhX0MbDT47I/s1600-h/IMGA0730.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304958813044435474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNahuJf8Ny7d9azY50rPjJfsb2PY52nB9fcinW9yGryW5K9pfUlw9SdXol1GxAq3Wkt9DYP-QQqVngbzxbb-7X7mINy69YhkxjC6uIg3Q3t5sxhqTssdm_JgqZFigIgQXvsYhX0MbDT47I/s400/IMGA0730.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnOf5lhPUIs5_CWQBA8Yoy73diKaXJQmDteQhNYGFw1FoGKnqOlOlfv3YidXdKFvrYmqx_qZ5LWpu5GXFM7O3Z2bmsoNAdj5FQyzogLvinsrKVmdGcHWjM9Kn73vKHuogqMnFbuqMQ8IK/s1600-h/IMGA0723.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304957641108663394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnOf5lhPUIs5_CWQBA8Yoy73diKaXJQmDteQhNYGFw1FoGKnqOlOlfv3YidXdKFvrYmqx_qZ5LWpu5GXFM7O3Z2bmsoNAdj5FQyzogLvinsrKVmdGcHWjM9Kn73vKHuogqMnFbuqMQ8IK/s400/IMGA0723.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3m4oBPe4AeuBaoS20aHYjaFrfLYQAt4JBOPwW_EqCbZbK56GFOPIkAYnriu4FUm8a51-5ORd-XY8vT4puSzUJiyq_ot74D2RlqBi_2nuFvY3oz3McAXg2bKdUDO3NTA1teH_CpuwxrbOu/s1600-h/IMGA0724.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304957641589606322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3m4oBPe4AeuBaoS20aHYjaFrfLYQAt4JBOPwW_EqCbZbK56GFOPIkAYnriu4FUm8a51-5ORd-XY8vT4puSzUJiyq_ot74D2RlqBi_2nuFvY3oz3McAXg2bKdUDO3NTA1teH_CpuwxrbOu/s400/IMGA0724.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304957639456647586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSegz_CaX8dzLUdwXuYnRtVlSRFWsySO2kd9rpaoyPIMi0Xjxsy6cc9GZWkuQ93I_UR3LWh1e8uA0nhJ-gP5vEJu2zidlCzBo160aplELzqDmYujJYgRJxqr_U8oLAilwhvblxUs-5aYM7/s400/IMGA0720.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-p0tHSNshasqVzeqBXqlmW_aktjeMhheEi83eCSP3eqYC8Q6JA29fbKl2MzqOSvXWvxWsuxwYjZ_VMvFqgngwsKhSWck0UEzHJ2UZ_LlZODp3wKMKxxXJotHYEsW3rU85GFC278y50tEU/s1600-h/IMGA0734.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304956015330727154" style="DISPLAY: block; 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MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpJUCod6WdoKNXRMz0OXpn8JZFhjNSGsTSpJ_Tf8AqtvBHKtfQcFMFgMGd7egjUsGYhi5XmzpcFpaS0semR3R4AJue5LRjZmxGFhWla_UhPqLlGz_OU2IE3V4YIv9MXr1jcJ8GYDTNWxT/s400/IMGA0744.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbub0HgCkfYr7KEXGBNhZDXqezLfo7oVG6lXl0-0wwTlQthhOHyVSR6ccMoy2_zzfdr9eBr583QGxE_OzPZyGtBh67H1u0dzvETfrbHwhOkM74IZPlzWA3_AYXX99VTsyQRw1iA9toOiQ/s1600-h/IMGA0706.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304954900455483154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbub0HgCkfYr7KEXGBNhZDXqezLfo7oVG6lXl0-0wwTlQthhOHyVSR6ccMoy2_zzfdr9eBr583QGxE_OzPZyGtBh67H1u0dzvETfrbHwhOkM74IZPlzWA3_AYXX99VTsyQRw1iA9toOiQ/s400/IMGA0706.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu1u1CIngxHL7r6qiFyLD1KBowrW1fW76Wl29hpDGtbriMKV_kNLoKy74fgwTMBs3bQ0kTdm7iFBEhpd0HAV0MikjZU_8XQWl_Q7bzQg-1NnxSQgH0p567g_3dEGg3QBNVR9p7C-ixzUj/s1600-h/IMGA0732.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304954907768932530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu1u1CIngxHL7r6qiFyLD1KBowrW1fW76Wl29hpDGtbriMKV_kNLoKy74fgwTMBs3bQ0kTdm7iFBEhpd0HAV0MikjZU_8XQWl_Q7bzQg-1NnxSQgH0p567g_3dEGg3QBNVR9p7C-ixzUj/s400/IMGA0732.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyBBFIzKAC9syQYOMoJoRptT8578YPxaORjLTyPfj8Rz5hfM5UtDfWri3YRmiaSY274mtgQDfjRg5dkwZKb-jFki_KRue0_M9fPeAL8Ahw-tyXKnQcOQtBtQ_uVS3fnpEH2mFoWP9szCTU/s1600-h/IMGA0733.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304953710423954690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyBBFIzKAC9syQYOMoJoRptT8578YPxaORjLTyPfj8Rz5hfM5UtDfWri3YRmiaSY274mtgQDfjRg5dkwZKb-jFki_KRue0_M9fPeAL8Ahw-tyXKnQcOQtBtQ_uVS3fnpEH2mFoWP9szCTU/s400/IMGA0733.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinT2lUmC0v206xRYo_1hEsYc687ym0jSSl-et3g4YXm0cSsqDJVQe8TeQsMGauyri2dZA8M9xSM4QA6SW9jbDDpcMN_VIJ5qb6pyZQUcYRqg5BVO0MDR4tNyAhlbE8XbuPMKD5Cre-0JrQ/s1600-h/IMGA0737.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304953708158726690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinT2lUmC0v206xRYo_1hEsYc687ym0jSSl-et3g4YXm0cSsqDJVQe8TeQsMGauyri2dZA8M9xSM4QA6SW9jbDDpcMN_VIJ5qb6pyZQUcYRqg5BVO0MDR4tNyAhlbE8XbuPMKD5Cre-0JrQ/s400/IMGA0737.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTQlW9aECu8oqUUg41FDMFjJjllJBOK-cYQPnsYxaCaTh5El8-YKY1PSMnNQopFJGQrn8do-mzd5_vc1DZ9Em42qYIAKNQi5_qyvpclZMkeFOBLW3pHKzjvTa9S5b-votlh0RpKakza5A/s1600-h/DSCN1321.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304950868130267666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTQlW9aECu8oqUUg41FDMFjJjllJBOK-cYQPnsYxaCaTh5El8-YKY1PSMnNQopFJGQrn8do-mzd5_vc1DZ9Em42qYIAKNQi5_qyvpclZMkeFOBLW3pHKzjvTa9S5b-votlh0RpKakza5A/s400/DSCN1321.jpg" border="0" /></a> The serious contemplator may want to scroll down to "Dealing with Waiting" which I started before Lynn did "Messengers" but didn't finish and post until now. For the lighter side, here are some comic pictures from the Girl's weekend in Wellington with Rus while the boys were camping with Miguel. There was a special international Rugby tournament in town and the city was alive with costume clad groups heading to the stadium. Yes the thing to do is to go in costume and many a group was hamming it up. The funnier and crazier the costume the better and I thought I would share some of our favorites from "people watching".</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-45012463254090325442009-02-15T21:38:00.003+13:002009-02-16T07:27:03.421+13:00Messengers<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4_x6tGmVKIx6fbL3b3PQovI1lA1yJdhOtbrNjmaedkrcUjBM1zyE6evAB3NwRudZlGUF1jZ9lDfJP2QWEEGsJEfwdkCSypC4tM-ofyB5PsmbmmIdm1G_nRQQxySHJgj2lEZxhsevwzPy/s1600-h/P2060040.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303091065363634802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4_x6tGmVKIx6fbL3b3PQovI1lA1yJdhOtbrNjmaedkrcUjBM1zyE6evAB3NwRudZlGUF1jZ9lDfJP2QWEEGsJEfwdkCSypC4tM-ofyB5PsmbmmIdm1G_nRQQxySHJgj2lEZxhsevwzPy/s400/P2060040.jpg" border="0" /></a> Camping Trip sunset-Ahipara<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkBA5kpX3-VlVZEOp-W-ZYah7n9VNcoTDa32pmHielModvnqIyIz35O-VR7PaWxFEF7w3VlbvHzH3R2Iol85337U-AzjUcW-ir84PUg-iPcB-F1lXzaairquwiiRKw2qOp7dorGE5mDE9s/s1600-h/P2060035.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303090132660998482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkBA5kpX3-VlVZEOp-W-ZYah7n9VNcoTDa32pmHielModvnqIyIz35O-VR7PaWxFEF7w3VlbvHzH3R2Iol85337U-AzjUcW-ir84PUg-iPcB-F1lXzaairquwiiRKw2qOp7dorGE5mDE9s/s400/P2060035.jpg" border="0" /></a> Campsite and bonfire on the beach.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1p8KCQJSdCpqPnCtlmp6Kq7aW1Tdhi4B51zjbuWjsPMmmqzUQrmWnoO_2aExEVuC_f8pMhgGxOj_wQmYdpet51j_EYskOMPVsDgTU7qt-WZDwWPWVErVPdDiS2N6jG52wLU57GVhoy1b/s1600-h/P2060016.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303090128210917090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1p8KCQJSdCpqPnCtlmp6Kq7aW1Tdhi4B51zjbuWjsPMmmqzUQrmWnoO_2aExEVuC_f8pMhgGxOj_wQmYdpet51j_EYskOMPVsDgTU7qt-WZDwWPWVErVPdDiS2N6jG52wLU57GVhoy1b/s400/P2060016.jpg" border="0" /></a> All boys trip and 4 Wheeling in the surf.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-XYXqrIJv66mzsYkPp8iOAfiXL2cz5xVMidbe6YPfm5bgDkoj_cEj7cfG9VBXTjAUC0903zA_46qkiBMVIojwiEo84MLFk3p_m598TYoppjNdfssoJxSbL5Fe3VJJV6i8_1GstHS3XnE/s1600-h/P2060039.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303088507008436178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-XYXqrIJv66mzsYkPp8iOAfiXL2cz5xVMidbe6YPfm5bgDkoj_cEj7cfG9VBXTjAUC0903zA_46qkiBMVIojwiEo84MLFk3p_m598TYoppjNdfssoJxSbL5Fe3VJJV6i8_1GstHS3XnE/s400/P2060039.jpg" border="0" /></a> Sand dunes with campsite<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0U0JDVQf71NRlnah0EPYtnM348E0OSDMk2SyOhImeDmqU2mu0_BAeTLrUOat9S-yReq7FOEsL5nAVaVIM9S_tFCq3hcGpLoQ3a8luNVMfoJwMamLyLBK1kF1fSNibLcLf75-y0zEyR4W/s1600-h/P2070068.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303088501982345970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0U0JDVQf71NRlnah0EPYtnM348E0OSDMk2SyOhImeDmqU2mu0_BAeTLrUOat9S-yReq7FOEsL5nAVaVIM9S_tFCq3hcGpLoQ3a8luNVMfoJwMamLyLBK1kF1fSNibLcLf75-y0zEyR4W/s400/P2070068.jpg" border="0" /></a> Lynn, Andrew, Phillip and Champ...Miguel took the photo</div><div><br /><div>Forgive us for our blogging hiatus. We've had to deal with American "stuff" including buying our tickets home. We'll be arriving in Knoxville at 9:45 pm Saturday, May 2! See you there.<br /><br />Summer continues to be beautiful. So much of God's peace can be communicated through nature if we stop, look and listen.<br /><br />Over the past week a few men have at least made me listen. Making some of the preliminary arrangements for returning home have been stressful and anxiety provoking. Watching the news, talking to people back home, and seeing bank accounts get depleted only worsens the sorry state. I took some of this with me into the wilderness last weekend as the boys and I went camping with Miguel (our pastor) and his son, Champ. On the drive up to 90-mile beach I told Miguel about some of my "problems" in America. He thought about them a moment- and then told me that they were a rich man's problems, implying they were not much to really worry about. It's not like any of my issues would lead to persecution, starvation, poverty or death. All real possibilities in a poor man's country. With that dismissal I agreed with him and was able to move on and enjoy my wild west coast camping adventure with my boys and the Abascal boys. The next man sent my way was one of my patients. He is an 85 year old Dutchman who came to New Zealand in the 1940's. I've known him for about 6 months and always find it a pleasure to see him. Despite pretty ragged lungs he's always smiling and making the most of things. He was genuinely saddened to find out I was returning home in May which made me feel appreciated. When he was about 20 years old the Nazis rolled into Holland and rounded up all the young men. Because he wouldn't fight for them they put him in a concentration camp. He said he nearly starved to death but was able to escape and eventually find a boat for New Zealand to get as far from Hitler as he could. Knowing this about him I asked what he thought of the current "crisis". He only laughed and said "You all don't know trouble!" Relatively speaking, he's definitely right about me. The third man I met with this week is my new medical partner from South Africa, John Mpe. He is a respiratory physician like myself. We were talking as we drove back from an out of town clinic and I asked him if South Africa was being affected by the financial issues of today. He, too, laughed and told me that it is so strange for him to listen to the American or New Zealand news and hear people worrying about unemployment going from 4 to 6% or so because unemployment in his country is 40%! He pointed to the road we were driving on and said, "In my country, there would be old and young men lining this road doing nothing because they have no jobs."<br /><br />After hearing from these three messengers (and God's usual messenger to me- my wife) my heart had peace and hope not that my "troubles" would go away, but that in the grand scheme of things they were minor and - even if they became major- God and my friends and family would still be there for me no matter what the outcome. I am sure everyone reading this has food, shelter and someone nearby who loves them. If you do, give thanks to God. If you don't, leave a comment and we'll help you to the best of our ability!</div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-27028590085977701852009-02-12T12:29:00.005+13:002009-02-21T08:24:01.669+13:00Dealing With WaitingAs we wind down our time here I am reminded of the intro we put into this blog. We anticipated correctly and we have learned about ourselves, the people of New Zealand, and our God. It has been fabulous. Each of those could and may at sometime become a blog entry. For now as we plan to return to Knoxville in May I am faced with a season of waiting which is the topic of this blog. I am waiting to say painful "Goodbyes" here and waiting for sweet reunion with you guys back home. However, I originaly entitled this blog entry "Dealing with Disappointment" because the waiting has resulted in anxiety and disappointment from the details of life in Knoxville not exactly falling quickly into a place we like. Let's keep it in perspective I am fortunate to not have to worry about the next meal like many we know who struggle from pay check to pay check. My health is good unlike various family members and the patients we see. My children are well unlike my friends who have lost children (I found out this past week through a facebook reunion that an old college roomate painfully lost a newborn much like I've seen 4 of my other friends experience). Never the less there are still taxes to figure out, busy Knoxville call schedules to work, 2 empty houses to pay mortgages on, a downward sliding weak New Zealand dollar to match the downward turn in savings, 401K, 1029,etc. The biggest pieces of the puzzle of uncertainty are the Knoxville pathology job and my Dad's health. I wonder if anyone can relate to uncertainty? The present circumstances can hold challenges and the future can be uncertain in many aspects. However, walking through these anxious weeks has brought an opportunity for me to seek God for His will and for His security. My prayers have shifted from the obligation or the light affair to a deep appeal that comes from the soul. The Word always speaks to me if I will read it and indeed these weeks I have heard many accounts from the Bible where people have had to bolster their faith and wait on the Lord (like Daniel after refusing Neb's food then trusting God to make him strong and like the syrophenecian woman who asked Jesus to heal her daughter trusting through silence and Jesus' questioning). My sister sent me a beautiful verse about being "joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer". I have sought God through some very honest prayers and my joy and hope are returning. The circumstances have not changed and the uncertainty remains reguarding work and my Dad but my heart is a little more resolved to believe God will work it all out and we will cope with whatever hardships come. It may not be easy but God promises He is a "very help and presence in times of trouble." We saw God come through in so many ways in coming to New Zealand and here we are having to believe him for the return as well.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-11547800140146200572009-01-26T17:18:00.009+13:002009-02-02T21:48:39.041+13:00Marlborough and Wellington<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298110345660207378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGKN1mMAi9GlkoFaGDhpdxYaOEGKuqMejKsqyQ9dIEHl75MvCHO1rwsJnhVDtGTOhHXBln_q-E57b9jZv6uW-zx1GTghTIUGCqePeVeovtA6tYHfZHh7NIlBuqr0cRFx5zHNCH1anQRbD/s400/pooljump.JPG" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxTSwJK1Ug91zopDvG4izFP5cKAg8INXGDlu3Ngel58KuABHkl3kvWX0U6yPvb-yFKhXRhQT8K8yJgHDmJYK5QeaaYL1tFVakXJlyx7pytU_gTaWTp24shJtMcD_SQ_CGgiaYCwNNuYVP7/s1600-h/victoriasound.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298112035687431282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxTSwJK1Ug91zopDvG4izFP5cKAg8INXGDlu3Ngel58KuABHkl3kvWX0U6yPvb-yFKhXRhQT8K8yJgHDmJYK5QeaaYL1tFVakXJlyx7pytU_gTaWTp24shJtMcD_SQ_CGgiaYCwNNuYVP7/s400/victoriasound.JPG" border="0" /></a> Picton with it's sound and harbour.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MaPKmVmf00RRZlWHnWdcyCLSadgSInggk4OCHT9B9AcDztDAV7fQ1Jf4N_-RmnjHeI9LrulqkoN7BdY86tcQmLffMWaDwW-0q9avf8QJkKlwCIFtVMA_PZLF_OMLCrBB47IMxQofSmno/s1600-h/trainkids.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298112031506231938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MaPKmVmf00RRZlWHnWdcyCLSadgSInggk4OCHT9B9AcDztDAV7fQ1Jf4N_-RmnjHeI9LrulqkoN7BdY86tcQmLffMWaDwW-0q9avf8QJkKlwCIFtVMA_PZLF_OMLCrBB47IMxQofSmno/s400/trainkids.JPG" border="0" /></a> The park at Picton had a little train.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp16nC7iIOynLY9u-fpFI017xApnOSb-oWD5_GlUUMiAnhXDegy_KSMjosQ1LNP9rlk9ugMr-q-aou48geLpKXUGsd3fFGLDny9_-TldkgFUHK-a9B60GksKYvVeD9NJrgoH_0lRtI5c_s/s1600-h/pictonpark.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298112021086293554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp16nC7iIOynLY9u-fpFI017xApnOSb-oWD5_GlUUMiAnhXDegy_KSMjosQ1LNP9rlk9ugMr-q-aou48geLpKXUGsd3fFGLDny9_-TldkgFUHK-a9B60GksKYvVeD9NJrgoH_0lRtI5c_s/s400/pictonpark.JPG" border="0" /></a> The waterfront at the park at Picton<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2voxwR9oGNB3cGpEi1LTH2QzHG5iA6AfTxpQLEODdSWD5xEh8kRq8AgAnbShv8FjZ-JARdfHC6sHi9OwwgpCLwWZcBKWEY3jGQQSnZl4CTviuSZXA-ByDpr6Rc4mRQER1ChDiizhWdaZ/s1600-h/playground.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298112028692106898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2voxwR9oGNB3cGpEi1LTH2QzHG5iA6AfTxpQLEODdSWD5xEh8kRq8AgAnbShv8FjZ-JARdfHC6sHi9OwwgpCLwWZcBKWEY3jGQQSnZl4CTviuSZXA-ByDpr6Rc4mRQER1ChDiizhWdaZ/s400/playground.JPG" border="0" /></a> Horsing around at Picton before getting on the ferry to Wellington.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggg9Q94HqGvNE4RWMMTgzJ5sbda-LsLuS45Mi6EQU2HjU9kI8qcnNPCP7VF3tVsMhmcIJKJdwpHoxVoPdn-oPa62BspIeHy8ko2mpudzA6Yu1wAL_av8Z2DxAdaxBvAIIcq0o907n_zZfV/s1600-h/kidsatvineyard.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298110339596904466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggg9Q94HqGvNE4RWMMTgzJ5sbda-LsLuS45Mi6EQU2HjU9kI8qcnNPCP7VF3tVsMhmcIJKJdwpHoxVoPdn-oPa62BspIeHy8ko2mpudzA6Yu1wAL_av8Z2DxAdaxBvAIIcq0o907n_zZfV/s400/kidsatvineyard.JPG" border="0" /></a> The kids playing at the vineyard.<br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uhIGfs1uqJWk7ytw8vbqltp6HJGXwx3DEBGHEucz2gw2fDN1LSDLRw3TSvRB1aeXb52Wf3CqvGkOGam18mUg0YTSQ4BR3_hLLSVJnmdPu7JqIf_12RldGvVOIvrkYCNgXbvuYiQLCsSc/s1600-h/marlborough.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298110344233554626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uhIGfs1uqJWk7ytw8vbqltp6HJGXwx3DEBGHEucz2gw2fDN1LSDLRw3TSvRB1aeXb52Wf3CqvGkOGam18mUg0YTSQ4BR3_hLLSVJnmdPu7JqIf_12RldGvVOIvrkYCNgXbvuYiQLCsSc/s400/marlborough.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92hqxmVqyl62nDIfMBh4wqu_zGgn5w6OaevMy_SzVTnTATyauoykOiRvfItd5VLNfw4iyO-iOgYIIfobCg8LRI0JgKPlxsoUfWLhw5pwMu00OE3fth0UwuVeNZBD5q6G7ruJnCzqgpxSC/s1600-h/familyatcellar.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298109264630955234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92hqxmVqyl62nDIfMBh4wqu_zGgn5w6OaevMy_SzVTnTATyauoykOiRvfItd5VLNfw4iyO-iOgYIIfobCg8LRI0JgKPlxsoUfWLhw5pwMu00OE3fth0UwuVeNZBD5q6G7ruJnCzqgpxSC/s400/familyatcellar.JPG" border="0" /></a> The Marlborough region is the Napa Valley of New Zealand.<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298109260945603154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRCVY9eS4vtp6h1t2Wz-WOjxfGFQln_LMoaaLbV2EqMQQh5kqS9P7lWIiODVzTIV_CTSk11LFOmXjeFH0eEaUO0hyphenhyphenRsuhwTVDh4YAe8AFWYwa9AYQEIQnd2mvr37IhwoYQU8KZLHd_FtU/s400/cloudybaybarrel.JPG" border="0" /> <div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298109261143988978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQcZ6vUp-ZzOyJlYwf9GTVpIiLvRyfrcO526Mh_HEQS6SW8VGA5kSdez30kF5Jbz9mxjkPkeetpXQnOPRL7hFB2vj2g2d7dmmhquH7VwpsqomGdZpqj5JFwI4aO9VUs2zhM08oh3I4I7N/s400/cloudybay.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298109231561698226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UDIDKcVwUv31MoW9h2rYAWprF_q8tGT9aImb0Wn54oJSHFsY6ewCpSvqHe8AsNZC8WLOMIerWR_qY8MozADGK_oye-kplSahFezJr7kV5lWiciXLYEoc_03PCnoP7N1EfxKvyXn42pSB/s400/alanscott.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>The Interislander ferry loads cars, sheep, and people for a 3 hour ride across the body of water in between the North and South Islands.<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295456026074586930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYau2r11ZTcsd5l_aeG7pKXwcaK7qjtIah6r5IhlkY_DWb2XdhT7jRQeOtD8R03qTSFLo76YAoo56J_O3T5F06nx_xypfZqubbsYoOhHJHr_xN9tGzMKgYc0DIHtBCQ6_82OjWVnf5esW1/s400/IMGA0677.JPG" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAISXPJzWvnRErualyTODSfBlTfRP980Ml6JPvO9Jl2XDUKxv3qyJdVkfVjx89XM8SiSis2GIfRIS3qtmHnADqYEUFmEYypdrtS5v9SBmIsrzseg3IZX8SB3HmMuCzfUYo54E1vwu8W9m/s1600-h/IMGA0679.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295456029114743362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJAISXPJzWvnRErualyTODSfBlTfRP980Ml6JPvO9Jl2XDUKxv3qyJdVkfVjx89XM8SiSis2GIfRIS3qtmHnADqYEUFmEYypdrtS5v9SBmIsrzseg3IZX8SB3HmMuCzfUYo54E1vwu8W9m/s400/IMGA0679.JPG" border="0" /></a> The view from the back of the boat as we left the South Island.<br /><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKczxDpt1CCBFiv_KwYQcQIqfB8p-yhEI-xoVbLmrA5I0p93BzqRtX_3IgYo3YRiwfkFAgXQbJlMY9qgHFX3JGhCez1TyFGmSqKnuE0tt9KmgJH4qdAV8B6Dwwic0e3tYqwUgUhe5tmby/s1600-h/IMGA0681.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295455118835978466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKczxDpt1CCBFiv_KwYQcQIqfB8p-yhEI-xoVbLmrA5I0p93BzqRtX_3IgYo3YRiwfkFAgXQbJlMY9qgHFX3JGhCez1TyFGmSqKnuE0tt9KmgJH4qdAV8B6Dwwic0e3tYqwUgUhe5tmby/s400/IMGA0681.JPG" border="0" /></a> Claire and I on the top outdoor deck of the ferry on this beautiful afternoon.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRPARXVOWZS5CdqxdxiwsC_5-mrQSj_yyXuJUsrm0a0VIfXscwJQgzQ0FYcWwKKoX2IE4ZlIEXIFQHt_iK8cd5j3N1i4yG4bdyIZfoNp_vdcYDiABt0zk9SuQhMakB1LMLLgQIf1NeJ9E/s1600-h/IMGA0682.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295455113429894642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRPARXVOWZS5CdqxdxiwsC_5-mrQSj_yyXuJUsrm0a0VIfXscwJQgzQ0FYcWwKKoX2IE4ZlIEXIFQHt_iK8cd5j3N1i4yG4bdyIZfoNp_vdcYDiABt0zk9SuQhMakB1LMLLgQIf1NeJ9E/s400/IMGA0682.JPG" border="0" /></a> It got windy later when Phillip came up as we moved into the North Island.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7yefMf9l23FdwSwigyaT0-VT8mzTvXdKYJHKiGm8IQ7QmOLg8FaZMamYmzRJKylmorRGIbWnBq-kD63M2HiTV4VbBF95Mi175B5Gnr9k0dZf7gb_2YKBfkOceLJHyV5DBCcXvK2B9H8Y/s1600-h/IMGA0683.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295455104716107490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7yefMf9l23FdwSwigyaT0-VT8mzTvXdKYJHKiGm8IQ7QmOLg8FaZMamYmzRJKylmorRGIbWnBq-kD63M2HiTV4VbBF95Mi175B5Gnr9k0dZf7gb_2YKBfkOceLJHyV5DBCcXvK2B9H8Y/s400/IMGA0683.JPG" border="0" /></a> We made it to the windy city of Wellington to see Rus.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnot9qET8W_fLdi7MvgfZFvDBhldqGzv3cKa8zrrSbFRVJ9GiSj5hoTsOen7lah3KJCbRIWexVgihZAWvX4amC94UflHRRg7Cf4oSNdsHiV8jE2V7DmawoxIUVsX6yyOtUZdAD8_u6kYjq/s1600-h/IMGA0684.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295453206211057378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnot9qET8W_fLdi7MvgfZFvDBhldqGzv3cKa8zrrSbFRVJ9GiSj5hoTsOen7lah3KJCbRIWexVgihZAWvX4amC94UflHRRg7Cf4oSNdsHiV8jE2V7DmawoxIUVsX6yyOtUZdAD8_u6kYjq/s400/IMGA0684.JPG" border="0" /></a> A great time was had at Uncle Rus as we watched movies, ate out, and caught up on the National College football championship game (on DVD of course).<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAGbg-ozcxy_cAGPNQNvab5ySQxOUphyphenhyphenszd8SEURw_fr7LJpoHB7EbGzoa_bnQLjxMmYc7OiPFpQZ-TJImLM1fjKrT0E6vHeSWDudhTivKPGxcsNeHydcYMvAZPy-WaweLgGQG692Xwot/s1600-h/DSCN1308.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295453200054488706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAGbg-ozcxy_cAGPNQNvab5ySQxOUphyphenhyphenszd8SEURw_fr7LJpoHB7EbGzoa_bnQLjxMmYc7OiPFpQZ-TJImLM1fjKrT0E6vHeSWDudhTivKPGxcsNeHydcYMvAZPy-WaweLgGQG692Xwot/s400/DSCN1308.jpg" border="0" /></a> Many have commented that New Zealand is more of a vacation than a mission. I guess our pictures from the 2 week vacation might suggest so. Ours was a short summer holiday compared with most who take 3 to 4 weeks off. It was a perfect 2 weeks for us, not too short and not to long. We were tired but went back to work last week. I promise there is work here but the pictures aren't as pretty. Lynn has had a very busy 2 weeks back at work as the first Northland respiratory therapist started from Auckland and his pulmonology replacement arrived from South Africa. He felt excited to see things coming together after 9 months but awkward to train your own replacement for a job you really like.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-48256150413490631842009-01-26T16:18:00.008+13:002009-02-03T07:41:52.762+13:00Kaikoura Whale Watching<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqaihVxSSNf_PZosF8Pf5RaQO9aX10hJPrxF2LtMtm05NlQi58fQbs6FbdarO6F5jugsPkVjqxaqOPyvX6YcmVqBNeq8C1sxXacM4dnzKaWqcsXBNc_fwhP2u8c-QZ71jdwUi489Y_6QKH/s1600-h/kaikouraview.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298272004866483394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqaihVxSSNf_PZosF8Pf5RaQO9aX10hJPrxF2LtMtm05NlQi58fQbs6FbdarO6F5jugsPkVjqxaqOPyvX6YcmVqBNeq8C1sxXacM4dnzKaWqcsXBNc_fwhP2u8c-QZ71jdwUi489Y_6QKH/s400/kaikouraview.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckkExU0NuCj4cs_sQsa2bd9XS3jdcHwRpAacJ04Rmw18ZbBdbymlQ35N2JRVKpAyW8TepwbQcYpGb25p31KyLvgQuhgsnWZCSz3GxzRtxucYoq5HXxvxRnaDuEYc0eL8TlsHBJyP_27P8/s1600-h/IMGA0626.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295444194885595490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckkExU0NuCj4cs_sQsa2bd9XS3jdcHwRpAacJ04Rmw18ZbBdbymlQ35N2JRVKpAyW8TepwbQcYpGb25p31KyLvgQuhgsnWZCSz3GxzRtxucYoq5HXxvxRnaDuEYc0eL8TlsHBJyP_27P8/s400/IMGA0626.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitKtYmLJnTmR1srGR2PUaUP-4Vj-HHYzIyk1yFncn-nhaUcHVh45npUoeqIGzw3dmCywsaKlCbgU6tg_GOoMUl14uyBdKsDM0YWYhLuua_SIAHB7OKiHrN_iQN11GtLStYSHKAa6d45lU/s1600-h/IMGA0555.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295444192212692098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitKtYmLJnTmR1srGR2PUaUP-4Vj-HHYzIyk1yFncn-nhaUcHVh45npUoeqIGzw3dmCywsaKlCbgU6tg_GOoMUl14uyBdKsDM0YWYhLuua_SIAHB7OKiHrN_iQN11GtLStYSHKAa6d45lU/s400/IMGA0555.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYS4z3Eu54bRz3lvHqZMMaVHy3rOQhpJr_VvhyphenhyphenVA8A7EDLdvJuePJin28AceEk3Gbr5QGK8f2yhn3levuU3KtwBdBcQJbKAudNqqleveGt7s6hoxWRWvRiXUz4fHzLJ9JmVGSku6lyivL/s1600-h/IMGA0560.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295444184960488898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYS4z3Eu54bRz3lvHqZMMaVHy3rOQhpJr_VvhyphenhyphenVA8A7EDLdvJuePJin28AceEk3Gbr5QGK8f2yhn3levuU3KtwBdBcQJbKAudNqqleveGt7s6hoxWRWvRiXUz4fHzLJ9JmVGSku6lyivL/s400/IMGA0560.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBJu3mgUS-eyJE8SNSulXLkkOzJev17KKkEbgr9lcDbW4n2VjH9-obhwW1v5a-ixg0OJAu1h7091sJ630ugfuukDUMqd-WZUj43HWCCTOgCglptOvmv00m3RXBX6z2JbcKCCEAlqaqoOT/s1600-h/IMGA0587.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295444177026545106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBJu3mgUS-eyJE8SNSulXLkkOzJev17KKkEbgr9lcDbW4n2VjH9-obhwW1v5a-ixg0OJAu1h7091sJ630ugfuukDUMqd-WZUj43HWCCTOgCglptOvmv00m3RXBX6z2JbcKCCEAlqaqoOT/s400/IMGA0587.JPG" border="0" /></a> Sperm whale head...<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQER3V2MIeC7dc8g0x6ZwyMUdVqEKINUHP3aoCfbAVUi7Wnlx0lhtmYNgx5p3i28j5RE9uyhEMTHyi-i2QP2Wgw0kHTX09ZspbGYOjS3oh0h9NHJc8F8mVmnFACr4uu2JR0vWSMeCzqhW/s1600-h/IMGA0558.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295441851172539938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQER3V2MIeC7dc8g0x6ZwyMUdVqEKINUHP3aoCfbAVUi7Wnlx0lhtmYNgx5p3i28j5RE9uyhEMTHyi-i2QP2Wgw0kHTX09ZspbGYOjS3oh0h9NHJc8F8mVmnFACr4uu2JR0vWSMeCzqhW/s400/IMGA0558.JPG" border="0" /></a> spout...<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c2RV8McvOQitZSCCIWf8qG49GyHY2r_dDgVtj-21ds8UVcp9nHzAD-kMc0xb7g90ztdFiDIKWMyg2Uiffh0BzCGM8rh8vxyOO2RnUkopD_iDbilh9J2cAZBOIvIDOP9RKlyjZHIFguEf/s1600-h/IMGA0610.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295441812664359154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c2RV8McvOQitZSCCIWf8qG49GyHY2r_dDgVtj-21ds8UVcp9nHzAD-kMc0xb7g90ztdFiDIKWMyg2Uiffh0BzCGM8rh8vxyOO2RnUkopD_iDbilh9J2cAZBOIvIDOP9RKlyjZHIFguEf/s400/IMGA0610.JPG" border="0" /></a> and tail<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5rb2bF2FnQ3rq7fd0y6LD7jJr6h-morid4XpApMsQ-5SozLfvUGC13rOUzd3yaUzSwSs2KVTFNSWpChuGAlf_0d2thwhnsxvfzeO0A-q7g-R5rtcHQIKzZ8y3EJJHTwM9GKOTm8AvoQt/s1600-h/IMGA0611.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295441808481477090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5rb2bF2FnQ3rq7fd0y6LD7jJr6h-morid4XpApMsQ-5SozLfvUGC13rOUzd3yaUzSwSs2KVTFNSWpChuGAlf_0d2thwhnsxvfzeO0A-q7g-R5rtcHQIKzZ8y3EJJHTwM9GKOTm8AvoQt/s400/IMGA0611.JPG" border="0" /></a> albatross with 6-8 foot wingspan<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VUa2TAFEIwFS3QsZDgtsaWqNJjdtcHtK29O4kVXoKs7S_FiMsYuuYc5nnEfWPP3rKvmllXF7WU0m2MdEvFCgIc2uz9rxVbtdPEmFL8H0QX5b8PQ2-h1XQmyNNrFrEmQl26FjDQ6_17dF/s1600-h/IMGA0613.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295441804680801250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VUa2TAFEIwFS3QsZDgtsaWqNJjdtcHtK29O4kVXoKs7S_FiMsYuuYc5nnEfWPP3rKvmllXF7WU0m2MdEvFCgIc2uz9rxVbtdPEmFL8H0QX5b8PQ2-h1XQmyNNrFrEmQl26FjDQ6_17dF/s400/IMGA0613.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfKVd88_8VEIk-OlpNTeSl6LDmysW0FafEHm8wpFVnsYpomSiBtE-lClTa0VjdxH0_Pakr9P5WCjp6B2ImUE2n4Cok1x3gkUVKZjVqvlU0o6LjsxXfzlwICyocLodXWuAjjXCc1Gsljb-M/s1600-h/IMGA0553.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295439396773678850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfKVd88_8VEIk-OlpNTeSl6LDmysW0FafEHm8wpFVnsYpomSiBtE-lClTa0VjdxH0_Pakr9P5WCjp6B2ImUE2n4Cok1x3gkUVKZjVqvlU0o6LjsxXfzlwICyocLodXWuAjjXCc1Gsljb-M/s400/IMGA0553.JPG" border="0" /></a> New Zealand fur seals on the rocks<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFeHD8dTn7-0-byLsqcEHZs-t2ejM-TmiqkN2eC6O3G_CSQh6sEaP0ud1SljO2CFE59av5dO-oQsYTBaY2ccXO8zGD7uvxgyA_OXxkl9gQ_7HP0lGdkn2ln0Cu4bqJ5DC2kO8YwFYbctZ/s1600-h/IMGA0622.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295439399934693666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFeHD8dTn7-0-byLsqcEHZs-t2ejM-TmiqkN2eC6O3G_CSQh6sEaP0ud1SljO2CFE59av5dO-oQsYTBaY2ccXO8zGD7uvxgyA_OXxkl9gQ_7HP0lGdkn2ln0Cu4bqJ5DC2kO8YwFYbctZ/s400/IMGA0622.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgd2PnYseLV2JFFut2D3tiZ2VFsGfwFJpDoKy0dIWErZ7E4SQnQylJNSKmKpHo15e9NMKcTcSBrqh52gwAv5wj2YR3ApIGl1Cv1N31Sf2lxU4x9IMU0VHp75rXZN3ZAcfvS0qlLg0vgBi/s1600-h/IMGA0630.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295439394555937618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgd2PnYseLV2JFFut2D3tiZ2VFsGfwFJpDoKy0dIWErZ7E4SQnQylJNSKmKpHo15e9NMKcTcSBrqh52gwAv5wj2YR3ApIGl1Cv1N31Sf2lxU4x9IMU0VHp75rXZN3ZAcfvS0qlLg0vgBi/s400/IMGA0630.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ32p_vEhRKirdA84tcBX4ofDu8d20Kz45WdR0OuqHtflkb2hL-QumMH_ZN3qZH_E5F4r4tevRqaImhyphenhyphen6hc_HszcOz2LpdrHEGHoV4ehThfyUVyirmw9Vuv5MFOmWzf8CjLg_H10hX6g24/s1600-h/IMGA0631.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295439392175570914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ32p_vEhRKirdA84tcBX4ofDu8d20Kz45WdR0OuqHtflkb2hL-QumMH_ZN3qZH_E5F4r4tevRqaImhyphenhyphen6hc_HszcOz2LpdrHEGHoV4ehThfyUVyirmw9Vuv5MFOmWzf8CjLg_H10hX6g24/s400/IMGA0631.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Kaikoura (kai=food and koura=lobster in Maori) is aptly named because it is the major feeding grounds for marine mammals in New Zealand. Less than a mile offshore is a deep trench with food and fish pouring up for the whales, seals and dolphins. Just driving into town we came upon a NZ fur seal colony with 30-40 seals laying and playing on the rocks. We had a very successful whale watching trip spotting about 7 sperm whales up to 50 feet long. These whales have 2.5 tons of oil stored in the top of their heads! They dive deep down and feed on giant squid and other creatures. Other species of whale come to Kaikoura but usually in winter.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-47604164356405544842009-01-26T14:13:00.008+13:002009-01-26T15:24:51.795+13:00Antarctic Blast<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295410493640952770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05ePibgB4u5RpR8e_dqFfF5udZ9Vo8ZdjcxZI9SyuFUDOv0UIdw-UP_cHKWqV915whjx2xepSgGq4QSTcQ9ZcjHflDcwR272755vNGSP2FTu8koAWDNPDg3OTqWWf0jlUrOUik659WUtZ/s400/IMGA0515.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295409430810405858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNa8Qycfkt8nke11lKxeq5E5-44pz2YTp1cMq9yeGLG8MayIZratV8UAeKthBlqindFuLA-jAmC-e_Ho_7LdQYvWLPvynhEAPXK-krtB7JXjTs4_ckaTBTEAIilyRAITg3wSRr_b1tUD-2/s400/IMGA0513.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSycPec4-ucgWFpRgQz19Jgpop-1CAHidOIR0AYv2qa9OCj0WyLlHlOdk_k2Vtgh8Me4SwGLHbqFshkSErVzSeuqVRlit8e72groDiwNy1UUIJPHCQF7kf4w-i7Olr6T9ThDQHEEW3MEiO/s1600-h/IMGA0536.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295415987486532594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSycPec4-ucgWFpRgQz19Jgpop-1CAHidOIR0AYv2qa9OCj0WyLlHlOdk_k2Vtgh8Me4SwGLHbqFshkSErVzSeuqVRlit8e72groDiwNy1UUIJPHCQF7kf4w-i7Olr6T9ThDQHEEW3MEiO/s400/IMGA0536.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is a model for a research camp.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbf47-ZmlQ4ZPfPVQ3iVE02vORAoQOcqRe_8eJIOVA-bW2J44jNaqs4CJk6JfhaUndxOqeBYVSbXhgDkSsf79IyVGgbF83zj8s3iOcldqZE8I3wJck56CmQHc3qmDjBBlkYlOzYmGN2BCb/s1600-h/IMGA0537.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295415983185901410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbf47-ZmlQ4ZPfPVQ3iVE02vORAoQOcqRe_8eJIOVA-bW2J44jNaqs4CJk6JfhaUndxOqeBYVSbXhgDkSsf79IyVGgbF83zj8s3iOcldqZE8I3wJck56CmQHc3qmDjBBlkYlOzYmGN2BCb/s400/IMGA0537.JPG" border="0" /></a>The explorers get on these yellow land and water cruisers which we got to ride along a track in. It also had a section of deep water which the truck did float in. <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAsx65mBIb5NH-0ewj-oU9AHOU53KfNRAXYFjaGJBtVXGF9AZejQZsuQbSA4RXcHonzMRWOBcpLY264DSE2CHbkpa0nwQpRDdi8PLrDuW5ouE9TWfq6vgKOuNEruotAEBvFGMImri4-uk/s1600-h/IMGA0541.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295415979015655154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAsx65mBIb5NH-0ewj-oU9AHOU53KfNRAXYFjaGJBtVXGF9AZejQZsuQbSA4RXcHonzMRWOBcpLY264DSE2CHbkpa0nwQpRDdi8PLrDuW5ouE9TWfq6vgKOuNEruotAEBvFGMImri4-uk/s400/IMGA0541.JPG" border="0" /></a> The museum had a room with freezing temperatures and periodic wind storms.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLNDpx7ShhvjUIJCfO5EWuhBD5ozVLd0ElGqCEpfHq8QRFM8xBbMSX16N5kBDgPAjL8_F7UfzWD5COFbiu9wbm0Ao6qN8Ru5hJ6fIuxbfPfHcYPsv_BXfonc6GXCs6ul7DBzjYB3ipHY4/s1600-h/IMGA0529.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295414184109173090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLNDpx7ShhvjUIJCfO5EWuhBD5ozVLd0ElGqCEpfHq8QRFM8xBbMSX16N5kBDgPAjL8_F7UfzWD5COFbiu9wbm0Ao6qN8Ru5hJ6fIuxbfPfHcYPsv_BXfonc6GXCs6ul7DBzjYB3ipHY4/s400/IMGA0529.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-2Yj2IrAPpqcIvz3MxpRKsA_4VKjmAYT6R-dl5SesUenlh9wu0qOBg3Wgw5aSq7lOHNE_4Pryb98Vxm_ZmHjpJ_kDM1Rn0pgr40qU4cbpT_nv-YtMBxSczFzf7x1hoDarCBJ0C9WOvir/s1600-h/IMGA0528.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295414179491079874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-2Yj2IrAPpqcIvz3MxpRKsA_4VKjmAYT6R-dl5SesUenlh9wu0qOBg3Wgw5aSq7lOHNE_4Pryb98Vxm_ZmHjpJ_kDM1Rn0pgr40qU4cbpT_nv-YtMBxSczFzf7x1hoDarCBJ0C9WOvir/s400/IMGA0528.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm4p30CdydnlHCRESTSCXPMU1XPeIPKswgJhm5bJbaD9HCZbrLJfgi44RskaiY9bWGH6Y5-XkPp70ZfgefNReMHBIBCPQaJUSvE6Qa2IbM-uTdbmc6Vh37h4nICMP35Q3iXNwguC47_XD0/s1600-h/IMGA0527.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295414178826750834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm4p30CdydnlHCRESTSCXPMU1XPeIPKswgJhm5bJbaD9HCZbrLJfgi44RskaiY9bWGH6Y5-XkPp70ZfgefNReMHBIBCPQaJUSvE6Qa2IbM-uTdbmc6Vh37h4nICMP35Q3iXNwguC47_XD0/s400/IMGA0527.JPG" border="0" /></a> <br /><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bkNznzTVI-KPegsbkthBlBM8lAkz4MfWOGlSyjQ0Fq4v1sMLr4_2iMJifUy2tAH7G2Pvwbylhsko4khNiH2oMyz9LnNPcyYqjUSUuvdNWTMjYqEdF9TbqhTGG1D7d7tCIYiQyQf1XEzL/s1600-h/IMGA0522.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295411548845880146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bkNznzTVI-KPegsbkthBlBM8lAkz4MfWOGlSyjQ0Fq4v1sMLr4_2iMJifUy2tAH7G2Pvwbylhsko4khNiH2oMyz9LnNPcyYqjUSUuvdNWTMjYqEdF9TbqhTGG1D7d7tCIYiQyQf1XEzL/s400/IMGA0522.JPG" border="0" /></a> The kids and even Lynn enjoyed the Antarctica simulation with an ice slide.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295414174687560210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzMOMGKgCxGl2LapNTOpSkyN38oMbk1RcmcBoD4eG85E_iw3f8CS2YFjlf8rTPZD8OiUTDk9chXVBgHxZqwcQL7-XdcHbaWYB46FnPn9bgYOg-phJjsSqfR0Kl4LndNFm_XOA5cMLgd1U/s400/IMGA0524.JPG" border="0" /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295415985231114402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZAkC1W7aPZ51P4crNUCKs5YDUha96LMOgOPi37vYrr5QeAQcl5af3Y_Bn9gSkgrNHv18bs281viVrvuB7NdHudBMIjraWqX09C-xXLmpBjCUDi4Iuy3j7ccPrZ-Kswu87dJr1eylXzEQ/s400/IMGA0531.JPG" border="0" /> </div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"> The US military has a base for Antarctic exploration out of Christ Church right next door to the museum.</span> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295410487006104338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ywdtc2dav3xrFJ38Bhl6JCxQ5EHG3R-PWzAoLhWhprO8_VZf1WgOiTLBFixLH6kiL14KsI31lNEadVCVfaR0rBwwFYTWsy5ZnKaD4btEUd8DozYX5T8sRsu7R0AHpWKksTDAidzyg_gV/s400/IMGA0514.JPG" border="0" /><br /> We could see the planes parked with ski bottoms ready to go.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295409441074513330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwM95iXOqnmqOQ8eUXQCnPPO774T9-ZASIfoLkHFVGjBLHv3BaWCU11rXbKjmyYrjsGOh-qP6EpekQRpkTZ5I4qjHeuKVvhkqquCy8yy8GNUqo4ZJcIGpHegIyd2LtBv6cVGeuRq6BBnOP/s400/IMGA0511.JPG" border="0" />These planes are pictured landing right on the ice. Sounds better to take the 3 hour flight than a month on an icebreaker boat.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBR-vDhnawy6aYLUjYdIO_bdOshYAtLYvZuErmHG0o_L1dq-p2n8f3tGFh5_v7ny9W-ZhkBYpl_SLHncy2fbeN6IexRgl9KTbpghLDbJiavK_E-SByrlNKJzxaanse2RqfaNZBDZuyqgah/s1600-h/IMGA0517.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295411544274702642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBR-vDhnawy6aYLUjYdIO_bdOshYAtLYvZuErmHG0o_L1dq-p2n8f3tGFh5_v7ny9W-ZhkBYpl_SLHncy2fbeN6IexRgl9KTbpghLDbJiavK_E-SByrlNKJzxaanse2RqfaNZBDZuyqgah/s400/IMGA0517.JPG" border="0" /></a> Even Antarctica has a church.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295412719557649730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHMpwUCfeOyDuHozTa_oYY5szarQvf9zjEixVJCaimqASWDEblSxadBDbvx_s2RUgt6YC3InaJtTohnmHQPLh4g1aW18Q96NDYxPzxwcjZIHvpFMDApyKEBWp-qffsfvNMccNmZmJ4VIzn/s400/IMGA0520.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><div><div><div><div>We all enjoyed the museum on Antarctica. Here are some facts we remembered:</div><div>1) It's 98% covered with ice which averages 2200 meters THICK and accounts for 70% of the world's fresh water</div><div>2) Closest continent to it is South America</div><div>3) In winter it is dark for 24 hours a day for 3 whole months. Then in summer the sun never sets for 3 months. It has to do with the tilt of the earth.</div><div>4) Anatarctica is 1 1/2 times BIGGER than the whole US and is only partially mapped on the interior</div><div>5) Fossils like coal, trees and dinosaur remains means it wasn't allways covered by ice. Some trees buried whole indicate it may have been flooded in a massive flood.</div><div>6) It hardly ever gets snow (less than 5 mm a year) even though it is everywhere. It is so dry that dehydration is one of the major risks.</div><div>7) Fish live in freezing water by producing a blood antifreeze.</div><div>8) Your hair grows twice as fast in Antarctica. Can you imagine us wintering there? We are all already so hairy.</div><div>9) Just as there are the Northern Lights visible in Alaska, there are the Southern Lights (or Aurora Australis) visible in Antarctica and in southern New Zealand. The lights appear as luminiscence in the sky during June and July due to atmospheric gases colliding with energized atoms frome the sun...blah,blah, something like that.</div><div>10) Hurricane force winds are a regular occurence thus solidifying the museum simulator is as close as I will get. I recommend watching the Disney movie 8 Below for more info.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-91229355309162548142009-01-22T08:56:00.013+13:002009-01-22T11:13:24.909+13:00Milford Sound<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSQG0S8GsBkKQ3X0jycKHo0pzMZRQ5leeOkPrriemdfNEdVadu7x8abvT_WjHT-rHnjePWYFhNpJBKGScqMiqUUmI3YaxzIHp6SD1jo1MgBicKWf9wAhf7g0CH2NmAA8hE24C_hTC-d_d/s1600-h/IMGA0490.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293870702197373266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSQG0S8GsBkKQ3X0jycKHo0pzMZRQ5leeOkPrriemdfNEdVadu7x8abvT_WjHT-rHnjePWYFhNpJBKGScqMiqUUmI3YaxzIHp6SD1jo1MgBicKWf9wAhf7g0CH2NmAA8hE24C_hTC-d_d/s400/IMGA0490.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiAOJ2x7INy7oS5JIWZPnB_2Q5DaiTfjEHOlblD_CjASf4TFSFwxHpMqVlyyWB8v34L_ZlyDN_QZAo45zXJdxxOr8RR1LpemuhNZWT5JVOUmM_PhqEYqO7h8zhva635OFiqF_BXCfxpcA/s1600-h/IMGA0354.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293869872750726802" style="DISPLAY: block; 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MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9k76yt4LgEIgXplDeLchPmd_RD-gPO0FrVn3gkl7Wm2Z7A000CzgsIyqryPAlo2OFsnXBp1-KEcGGdM9QjSBefUErvYHaQhh8RolxXB0kdMS9MIK90F5ZnRfEP5I0F0z90_Pjb8_vUai2/s400/IMGA0423.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPIwKhRzMI4YwZqpeiWohbZIzQ9jIr2L2ErcvF0OWepFHVyHyHvLooMSAdB04Iw722-Z0Pt1P6EqDagYIefDm5bUqP5h6qpFnDUpYraqJtvTebF3Q8cQ08W0YAo7LPA5YvWwtovtiZdL8/s1600-h/IMGA0483.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293853031772987202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPIwKhRzMI4YwZqpeiWohbZIzQ9jIr2L2ErcvF0OWepFHVyHyHvLooMSAdB04Iw722-Z0Pt1P6EqDagYIefDm5bUqP5h6qpFnDUpYraqJtvTebF3Q8cQ08W0YAo7LPA5YvWwtovtiZdL8/s400/IMGA0483.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi01h6rxU0A8HQAqgu4zuOo5TebYHuD0zDnhzijiuNcrQufPMNhD5tceyOheGa896xp6fvgykYwoeKahgR1q13fwcO1xLSgqiBxL32xScqnuK9LCwG3vcScBbBMB-cfr_2oqEA9WVyfnhKw/s1600-h/IMGA0493.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293853020732078642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi01h6rxU0A8HQAqgu4zuOo5TebYHuD0zDnhzijiuNcrQufPMNhD5tceyOheGa896xp6fvgykYwoeKahgR1q13fwcO1xLSgqiBxL32xScqnuK9LCwG3vcScBbBMB-cfr_2oqEA9WVyfnhKw/s400/IMGA0493.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_2KcZ_G6csd-PHOCci3lMR2rEG7JkN5Xr3Ts8nGPFWcdOBMv486Z_U2njtDkxv8IobholCpTeegNZvEf2L6RmJwl-J51TWhgQkxtNM3EZKHc7KsT2k0f7WKlQFymLDa7NXfk0fUawJT5J/s1600-h/IMGA0494.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293853011928266418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_2KcZ_G6csd-PHOCci3lMR2rEG7JkN5Xr3Ts8nGPFWcdOBMv486Z_U2njtDkxv8IobholCpTeegNZvEf2L6RmJwl-J51TWhgQkxtNM3EZKHc7KsT2k0f7WKlQFymLDa7NXfk0fUawJT5J/s400/IMGA0494.JPG" border="0" /></a> The Milford Sound trip was actually the morning of the Shotover River and Arrowtown drive but requires it's own blog entry due to the majesty we saw. A picture is worth a thousand words they say.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-73930049653303468102009-01-20T07:19:00.014+13:002009-01-26T20:41:17.022+13:00Shotover River and Skipper's Canyon<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdhiuakJqP6aW0UYa7fAMh7_VpTE6QXu0ghEeEEv1ocSG_mWbTgqlJZo2UpDltEN-GgRARR5IpIaRqezv5GYPmRAa6zV1e1-YYRCXqyMMj7PHYdc6TXJGGgnJq6mgkKEXg33FBpS0qb7_/s1600-h/IMGA0686.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295435970538125378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdhiuakJqP6aW0UYa7fAMh7_VpTE6QXu0ghEeEEv1ocSG_mWbTgqlJZo2UpDltEN-GgRARR5IpIaRqezv5GYPmRAa6zV1e1-YYRCXqyMMj7PHYdc6TXJGGgnJq6mgkKEXg33FBpS0qb7_/s400/IMGA0686.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lynn, Andrew and Phillip on the second row.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIteiMwKJwfb_A7bFbtVQcrv-r3gVqFd-R1ZwKLYOI7UDvXgbkRltHn-ynLOSlx1NQ5wajvG3fy8v7ODLHqSAK0v3_4ROnxW7zSWu660JqsAwkHF2xBTPRjh4B47puVrrPho3LPQVhXvkb/s1600-h/IMGA0350.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293835802080694914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIteiMwKJwfb_A7bFbtVQcrv-r3gVqFd-R1ZwKLYOI7UDvXgbkRltHn-ynLOSlx1NQ5wajvG3fy8v7ODLHqSAK0v3_4ROnxW7zSWu660JqsAwkHF2xBTPRjh4B47puVrrPho3LPQVhXvkb/s400/IMGA0350.JPG" border="0" /></a> Arrowtown on the Shotover River back in the 1850's during the gold rush. Mainstreet doesn't look much different now. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293836909178992002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHcn3N_NBbbGTU-M0bUleZ9GEmlmWeGOh0dZWAkt4dXf94iYqn_M4dcFc9B7NL2ZQ_M5D_B9niDOh0amq2hEXMcLciLLoW3Ru6vlWuWvB6ae47okt_dFDzM5PgrkocWjGyS0fRkPeO6OS/s400/IMGA0349.JPG" border="0" /> The old post man's house is now a restaurant.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_j8wrMeqNkjPzo4RkF3B3dH7e4SNNIuv4MEc14QuD9qJa63-4PPCEdFr6yt2k3wx2ZqmL09M1qocSzTpyxCa7K_iEt2Pjj1ygzNW9vavAlof_PHO8vLhVUcOFaXxFI-QEynxFfjK6Ol0I/s1600-h/IMGA0348.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293835796515980066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_j8wrMeqNkjPzo4RkF3B3dH7e4SNNIuv4MEc14QuD9qJa63-4PPCEdFr6yt2k3wx2ZqmL09M1qocSzTpyxCa7K_iEt2Pjj1ygzNW9vavAlof_PHO8vLhVUcOFaXxFI-QEynxFfjK6Ol0I/s400/IMGA0348.JPG" border="0" /></a>Instead of panning for gold our kids just splashed around in the water and enjoyed the sunshine after the cold mountain nights. The camper has a heater and we felt luxurious compared with our freezing next door tent campers.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAKxRGlbfbaauDmiuSZskrmzPL-l4EzlnM1mO7-V0iZDo3U71LtQXblOb0SrXbbhoaCFpWD0aNFFWEEahokafJbjWrM_jyQFWYiAJjfyI_uJVrtM589OXVw0afSFoCUGr-O9Il8wm0Kq5/s1600-h/IMGA0509.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293835785053788802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAKxRGlbfbaauDmiuSZskrmzPL-l4EzlnM1mO7-V0iZDo3U71LtQXblOb0SrXbbhoaCFpWD0aNFFWEEahokafJbjWrM_jyQFWYiAJjfyI_uJVrtM589OXVw0afSFoCUGr-O9Il8wm0Kq5/s400/IMGA0509.JPG" border="0" /></a> The girls hugging in front of the SHotover bridge reminds me of how as family we are growing closer. There is still arguing but there is a lot of love mixed in too.<br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClJvbBhvx1Fjs1R6YtVOxpgOHe7Hn9yJSdFczNR6XVD-rSHiSeZp9Fif7Kj6c12vnG8oVXng9arWtxSkt8-7t4mu0Lil4MNGF8oWi98euovH7XCiTg2SVJCg2S4OpvNZyNYV7IwDLpRI6/s1600-h/IMGA0508.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293091496850752834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClJvbBhvx1Fjs1R6YtVOxpgOHe7Hn9yJSdFczNR6XVD-rSHiSeZp9Fif7Kj6c12vnG8oVXng9arWtxSkt8-7t4mu0Lil4MNGF8oWi98euovH7XCiTg2SVJCg2S4OpvNZyNYV7IwDLpRI6/s400/IMGA0508.JPG" border="0" /></a> A section of this river through skipper's canyon was used when the fellowship went on canoe through the two pillars of the Kings which were really only 10 foot statues superimposed on the cliffs edges.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0GISOpah-cFnenqqdTye29jFZghDOQe13wXHHZZHlu1zud3JPJmDQ4Tb7UZJ1w53dFbyTfFtrTBFST2f_94dTa5jDr4ihZsk4_YLWSykhILTBa_sjmdinOBV3OH98YlBdKvTWv8KfNEQ/s1600-h/IMGA0507.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293091491677881458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0GISOpah-cFnenqqdTye29jFZghDOQe13wXHHZZHlu1zud3JPJmDQ4Tb7UZJ1w53dFbyTfFtrTBFST2f_94dTa5jDr4ihZsk4_YLWSykhILTBa_sjmdinOBV3OH98YlBdKvTWv8KfNEQ/s400/IMGA0507.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1qBzYg9B-HZFoCFQEYXY2o724AzGKbYSxiqR3IRz64GWngLWNN0JvFfdFAagwBDZ7s_JnXYduY_GlNsr38p56qwAPmKMs3t-k_u76lAdKODwIiX3N6TqV0qY3PXxMw8lNF8bRyuRRUMP/s1600-h/IMGA0503.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293074209857040626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1qBzYg9B-HZFoCFQEYXY2o724AzGKbYSxiqR3IRz64GWngLWNN0JvFfdFAagwBDZ7s_JnXYduY_GlNsr38p56qwAPmKMs3t-k_u76lAdKODwIiX3N6TqV0qY3PXxMw8lNF8bRyuRRUMP/s400/IMGA0503.JPG" border="0" /></a> Great fun was had on the Shot over River. You may recognize it as the river where Frodo had to escape from the ring wraiths after being stabbed. Liv Tyler carried him on her white horse making the flood come like God did for the Israelites.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv20Ogje6jVaVTZPfyS8e2i_FlL3Y4ITSZKBHgkWwTtTdkNmnVRxuo5be6zoL-uYq6zOq_W6z4o3nkOOZDnxjgLSieW9dfUn4ZCa3i2ocYkd4nfR5hzhtE3imHw7yPDOrom_ABfK-LDs8H/s1600-h/IMGA0500.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293074202958644466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv20Ogje6jVaVTZPfyS8e2i_FlL3Y4ITSZKBHgkWwTtTdkNmnVRxuo5be6zoL-uYq6zOq_W6z4o3nkOOZDnxjgLSieW9dfUn4ZCa3i2ocYkd4nfR5hzhtE3imHw7yPDOrom_ABfK-LDs8H/s400/IMGA0500.JPG" border="0" /></a> We went to a hot tub with a view of the river.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGu8fy_J1ds0fvzaNh94AIu2LU7IsffnTGTWzT8OW7xlNCBa28HBngxQGPjzVLEFjSbOoJjiKs1K6zeIz7U_cpWQzxN56IkyzWjgw22TIMK-UiUktuViy37eGAqgDHBPeM7Hw1PlaXHVu/s1600-h/IMGA0504.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293072882077646274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGu8fy_J1ds0fvzaNh94AIu2LU7IsffnTGTWzT8OW7xlNCBa28HBngxQGPjzVLEFjSbOoJjiKs1K6zeIz7U_cpWQzxN56IkyzWjgw22TIMK-UiUktuViy37eGAqgDHBPeM7Hw1PlaXHVu/s400/IMGA0504.JPG" border="0" /></a> The boys did the Shotover river jetboating. You can see the loading dock in the back ground.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293096489536055266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQKrnyaYnlHRQve3SfFhXSBMTxm_VGXcf2wHCjr8L4g9X-nGZfxLe40FGPDpY5OAJx6QpFQiZf9cOc2T18teggki1PP8pzFwK7A_82kpiLEJCu5caunPVALJ0XoY9j4_XmAzhcTcu5HZzO/s400/IMGA0506.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUduaxOzX4iU4YF5APYtvGLJM5NuYRinLkx-nuIcN7K_Tlpc1GXs8lX50sh0LiDlVnUSMbaguEWPr0xSULUiWBwUoA8DLgZrmSm-a6dWrliCNfcjhUuG6qgZbA75nDZRbdu5O0i3qMsj-_/s1600-h/IMGA0505.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293072357816340274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUduaxOzX4iU4YF5APYtvGLJM5NuYRinLkx-nuIcN7K_Tlpc1GXs8lX50sh0LiDlVnUSMbaguEWPr0xSULUiWBwUoA8DLgZrmSm-a6dWrliCNfcjhUuG6qgZbA75nDZRbdu5O0i3qMsj-_/s400/IMGA0505.JPG" border="0" /></a> It was high adventure but expensive. The girls wanted to go but will get their own special activity later.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293093380749973170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfae_-WAE1HacJ3qOFcqiFrljuQgyS_irjSDnhlGyzjwOhqNRJ4YYI-Doq1sedb3D2hGEsfQUmu_GSIrDSBNbQa4ErEzO9RAbOwceTXzG_xPbka1KqLuhPkFrLLqNO5FNvZgoVSEBCtbKe/s400/IMGA0499.JPG" border="0" />The campground has worked out to be a wonderful experience as we have met other families from all over the world. The community kitchen and living room pictured was a place to hang out. Anna played Play-doh with a little girl from Holland who didn't speak English. Her older brother who spoke English introduced them enough to know eachother's name. A family from England camping a few spots over at actually been in Whangarei doing a homestay with some of our Whangarei Heads friends. Their kids at met ours at a Birthday party a few months ago. When we were on the train we met an American family of yachty's whose boat is next to our friend Bob's in the Harbor. On the train we also ran into Gene and Ginnie Baillie from the Anderson Pathology practice I worked in South Carolina. It's an amazing small world.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293093370502122914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-dSCQrqV3_onqGvywyLWyqHI-81lCp9afNeSPaQTqYTJ1qFYB6SeZfHhUvjdVGqfXMZ7O0EBvQAMQV6ARBZURAIsjKzgtL0HhqcmmzjT6CFXEJMr3bII8GvFESI-gh8g4g1Cr1zPNR8N/s400/IMGA0498.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-32702037143636264802009-01-19T17:59:00.014+13:002009-01-20T07:19:25.803+13:00A Day Around Queenstown<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292878443698509906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPEYDlgatubRRS3PKR9zT2KVXMMjyiRlibL8QTBQViQNZ36UPv4jl5upBrf-eCcCQIcHhsa3SCqSPlIv_o8HN54QnbKDRfbasuyWQEUBiL5-5YmPnMkqrTmSXYWaW52ghYwz34fO4dYR9d/s400/IMGA0345.JPG" border="0" /> What do Tuscany, Swiss Alps, and Lake Tahoe have in common? The Queenstown area has images that remind me of all three. After spending the morning flying around on a scenic airplane fight we ended up at a vineyard for a picnic and wine tasting. I wish my sister Kimberly and brother in law Richard were here for this.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNtPXMrndRXRtNAoz4FIY_oqYBagyXqLznUjJlj6Z9BR4BcfzA9_yiKMvBTNVyukAk2pU1qi3kFv3jCTvm54M1qzgglYifL7cTHhx-_Dh0V-zuC8ooINGRqZB-wrcWIVmPA2UQD_Vv-bz/s1600-h/IMGA0339.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292880234562611682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNtPXMrndRXRtNAoz4FIY_oqYBagyXqLznUjJlj6Z9BR4BcfzA9_yiKMvBTNVyukAk2pU1qi3kFv3jCTvm54M1qzgglYifL7cTHhx-_Dh0V-zuC8ooINGRqZB-wrcWIVmPA2UQD_Vv-bz/s400/IMGA0339.JPG" border="0" /></a> The camper van parked right outside the tasting room for a picnic.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292880236219021666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5d_b0PQMb_cJQy60H0xIwv1xqrdRknCWqRZkybR90E7AtFGDO18fML-G-FUvIyWRbC-0UEJIytUkKAvkVdKmCCKFx4b3sWqdujtDzL8qZrl9KSgEEKGD7HD-a1bo9geOgEn11BRmuAday/s400/IMGA0347.JPG" border="0" /> The winery had a cafe.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBpJassPG6wbL6dqIoR31P0SCJFpZ2u3P1YI0i8JvsabBQTi3lUKcvNYpBT4XEtxkm5tePTiCWvoDf9AMnD6TS8O6Tbo1AS2ZhbfuxMQwYc33hyWNFUKx4YMGyoOhLbc_RNaRiPp7mGgG/s1600-h/IMGA0346.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292879420465825474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBpJassPG6wbL6dqIoR31P0SCJFpZ2u3P1YI0i8JvsabBQTi3lUKcvNYpBT4XEtxkm5tePTiCWvoDf9AMnD6TS8O6Tbo1AS2ZhbfuxMQwYc33hyWNFUKx4YMGyoOhLbc_RNaRiPp7mGgG/s400/IMGA0346.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lynn and I walked the grounds after the picnic.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9x60zkOa-13aHaPqzzMsqtGu35uvCn9_8Jj8dSAbZh96xIFZ1BJbm9RQCjCJ5pCtzUviFp9hlqg5l1Jn9G0i0KQnrx3kHbfnINOMYocYHvVyGycoBvDcJh0UKtWCRvHn2ZIjTpTlQTrdM/s1600-h/IMGA0343.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292879416213015442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9x60zkOa-13aHaPqzzMsqtGu35uvCn9_8Jj8dSAbZh96xIFZ1BJbm9RQCjCJ5pCtzUviFp9hlqg5l1Jn9G0i0KQnrx3kHbfnINOMYocYHvVyGycoBvDcJh0UKtWCRvHn2ZIjTpTlQTrdM/s400/IMGA0343.JPG" border="0" /></a> The tasting room was a rare treat for us on a camper van family vacation.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0tqvOzSsPjd4wPnq777zsLpwL-E0NJgvub74S8-0ZuJDKLBUFBkPSZ1xdVP47r-eVsNnaKZzHx-xDYp8oOMTfcxIVxa1LJwa54-TnrLSTWucXgrj0k-5bDdiLy9LTROHXl6w0MEKuFTo/s1600-h/IMGA0333.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292878441122173410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0tqvOzSsPjd4wPnq777zsLpwL-E0NJgvub74S8-0ZuJDKLBUFBkPSZ1xdVP47r-eVsNnaKZzHx-xDYp8oOMTfcxIVxa1LJwa54-TnrLSTWucXgrj0k-5bDdiLy9LTROHXl6w0MEKuFTo/s400/IMGA0333.JPG" border="0" /></a> The flight earlier in the day left Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu and headed for the high surrounding mountains called The Remarkables, over a few glaciers, and then on to the Tasman Sea.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYPR6DPAHKStCEikoyG-zyRqKYgjKII-c14OOB_TmvN85KW32FKK7caPhIN7nEki0HmZjkyz3ltWZmq3833_Rots35ZPrIVO_NHWe2BbOLfFnlQtcJ7MHjvoyCidEBaSgj9cj8H48B9r7/s1600-h/IMGA0241.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292876363294843618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYPR6DPAHKStCEikoyG-zyRqKYgjKII-c14OOB_TmvN85KW32FKK7caPhIN7nEki0HmZjkyz3ltWZmq3833_Rots35ZPrIVO_NHWe2BbOLfFnlQtcJ7MHjvoyCidEBaSgj9cj8H48B9r7/s400/IMGA0241.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The Wakatipu lake is the run off lake for the glaciers in the surrounding mountains. The above and below photos show the grey silty glacier water running into the lake.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292869363736964386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzoAQTGK9WDrzCR9LzapQVwZqBOMjJ2MMiE_lnLxK9yX-iAkNKWR1HKhJYhqRGxL7qWdxLCMHwAfThEN6olA4t6rC6WjUDWqXlMWvddTuaOwvmMruoMSVQMRUfjFBR-eBQIpA0h7GMwwlI/s400/IMGA0246.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292869356943011090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvqAW1X1Yb2rYgHv6PUMQrLDUYYyYp3AF5yh_grToHz9IZbQxDw3TV3HukKKfFFimBJ2fuTNoBjXM1mktKFrWLJkLmJi76Gdd-ueEFImj8FtT6XkQU3KlKvGQjZ9ACJ6pkboInw4zejCr/s400/IMGA0266.JPG" border="0" />The glaciers we saw are small ones compared with the massive more Northern glaciers of Fox and Franz Joseph.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fxKQvWHOWgfGNQTpgPjltE3vFCsgf2N0IrdounheBe9xHXdIL86QI4bqbMARp8XP6amARzaNgRoFTywKO6PP2tv68noIlplR1lujqrVIuvw4Yz4AZ8ILt9fcy9_x7W0Sljt16eU9-Pl1/s1600-h/IMGA0300.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292876357151175026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fxKQvWHOWgfGNQTpgPjltE3vFCsgf2N0IrdounheBe9xHXdIL86QI4bqbMARp8XP6amARzaNgRoFTywKO6PP2tv68noIlplR1lujqrVIuvw4Yz4AZ8ILt9fcy9_x7W0Sljt16eU9-Pl1/s400/IMGA0300.JPG" border="0" /></a> Several high altitude "hanging valleys" with small collections of water can be seen near the tops in the alpines with waterfalls coming off them.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAABpGSeJy4P19oaneLYb4U7hk1BZdRL6eSWJT5Akc6o5Ochjw-9mEAreMxVH8C8_7uDpHhHRa0lU9l_qvH-BabLX2BdJedXlrjAyPIKMPwzQGM7jTX7KQQW6Y-x2deHV5z4TvE7XUUrCY/s1600-h/IMGA0253.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292875430865331234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAABpGSeJy4P19oaneLYb4U7hk1BZdRL6eSWJT5Akc6o5Ochjw-9mEAreMxVH8C8_7uDpHhHRa0lU9l_qvH-BabLX2BdJedXlrjAyPIKMPwzQGM7jTX7KQQW6Y-x2deHV5z4TvE7XUUrCY/s400/IMGA0253.JPG" border="0" /></a> Being in the plane caused the usual "motion nap" for Anna. The pilot commented it was an expensive nap!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlKHuPIe6pBYkEqLdEN07J0XHybUFRmkS9UKtJ6RjrylWzpqb4Vgo8j9L2QRT16TQpExikjdN22wVA6C_lIrpPa1XzAyoKIMssv9IND4Yl8tvFSOBWzYL_k7mevRtdwMfnCJrP_2JP8JX/s1600-h/IMGA0308.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292874041970342930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlKHuPIe6pBYkEqLdEN07J0XHybUFRmkS9UKtJ6RjrylWzpqb4Vgo8j9L2QRT16TQpExikjdN22wVA6C_lIrpPa1XzAyoKIMssv9IND4Yl8tvFSOBWzYL_k7mevRtdwMfnCJrP_2JP8JX/s400/IMGA0308.JPG" border="0" /></a> Phillip sporting his new wool hat with snow out the windows hardly looks like a summer vacation.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292873053814938210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJrfzaXZs0jV0R77KUiDGqwOfzio9UfMb0_Akfhk-m1gGno7g6Z64zMSy553voY1DMioxQzDUD_u2fp9ya8IHWVKf1o628bx8KWAcdq2_Nt2JMAzGdRtS6nI-MUknK4-5K2Ps8anVqlLI/s400/IMGA0249.JPG" border="0" /> I love to sit up front.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRWwwTqgB2SU6zx_rQ8jWTXSf8w4Om6Q8sPz8XAP7UcPiP-bzQlBqH0zI019Gcc824tqTafICN_tdd5UsMCXz5slt7ZRk8i5tQS4kkCgyWQKIY-wrROKguq0g_oFMtDNtt0YqEa8YTR98_/s1600-h/IMGA0296.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292874041050153298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRWwwTqgB2SU6zx_rQ8jWTXSf8w4Om6Q8sPz8XAP7UcPiP-bzQlBqH0zI019Gcc824tqTafICN_tdd5UsMCXz5slt7ZRk8i5tQS4kkCgyWQKIY-wrROKguq0g_oFMtDNtt0YqEa8YTR98_/s400/IMGA0296.JPG" border="0" /></a> The beach landing at Bay Beach on the Tasman Sea was a highlight.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292872014885066898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMA37ANRWr-i7DPSb3EwVX3BjOHlUVJvjV3KSmv9Yz02dg7mdKiY8wbvroQyDLrt25-w_6-EvjWVBj9Z4nKPuGmKQkC2PrJtDmxP2LABVIw2eoxqF2KBtcJKSRJ4OMGR5iIGVx7mjnhJb0/s400/IMGA0278.JPG" border="0" /> There is absolutely nothing developed in this mountain into beach area.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1ezN4xF5WlMfWQSDrxWMk7TSCqX5Oe2RQKdPpjrsaiATlCSGZ4FEq6EpZ3qOtGNSpUwOm_ibcXKcVcHKTUtE_sqIvwlXwuiHkB4BszldHD9yKMb6dObyqkW9FfVPwB3QCk7c1zDLl-rZ/s1600-h/IMGA0289.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292873051748105490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1ezN4xF5WlMfWQSDrxWMk7TSCqX5Oe2RQKdPpjrsaiATlCSGZ4FEq6EpZ3qOtGNSpUwOm_ibcXKcVcHKTUtE_sqIvwlXwuiHkB4BszldHD9yKMb6dObyqkW9FfVPwB3QCk7c1zDLl-rZ/s400/IMGA0289.JPG" border="0" /></a> The tide was high but here is our plane after the landing on the sand.<br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5zNDzkX9GJBhrSDfHx6oS9QYB5yMZFlzUNwrlfICYkbqoWdnJfG_fSvyz1EzFO1NiUNndxQx4XsTQsmu0gCD4fKVDCgbxh2saK8qQp2Gw81BHmg9OWQ22sTwMvYxN-c19GiZ-IKgj5In/s1600-h/IMGA0284.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292872019908029922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5zNDzkX9GJBhrSDfHx6oS9QYB5yMZFlzUNwrlfICYkbqoWdnJfG_fSvyz1EzFO1NiUNndxQx4XsTQsmu0gCD4fKVDCgbxh2saK8qQp2Gw81BHmg9OWQ22sTwMvYxN-c19GiZ-IKgj5In/s400/IMGA0284.JPG" border="0" /></a> Here we are on the beach above contrasted with the snow we went through below to get there.<br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_11KOanUACM5seeDK0ICLhIJezidLKUU6oaMWyVEM6ygEetXEetPD4TIum3XqmE1tkEyERk4K2TN0TMzkd7SimIFX7qwfBLvTZ1ESpWpWK-txathIY-yqmCiVcmikSegFNN9YopgYELd4/s1600-h/IMGA0307.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292870786220663458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_11KOanUACM5seeDK0ICLhIJezidLKUU6oaMWyVEM6ygEetXEetPD4TIum3XqmE1tkEyERk4K2TN0TMzkd7SimIFX7qwfBLvTZ1ESpWpWK-txathIY-yqmCiVcmikSegFNN9YopgYELd4/s400/IMGA0307.JPG" border="0" /></a> Many know I am a huge Tolkien fan. This is the area that the fellowship had to traverse to go around Isengard before deciding to brave the deep mines in the mountains.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC1DFLhVTogq5dme28ZE1dEKIRImg2S0-VnCBb7fZGCq1kU3IfWkfiym0uKy8ahfQkGjNjSMAShrrZc6t0GJlmxn-MXiDWzYd0daKRkIWpCMJ5a2Jf5N8ZB1U8drO9hOJJhqtdBbFb8_Sa/s1600-h/IMGA0256.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292870780047278514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC1DFLhVTogq5dme28ZE1dEKIRImg2S0-VnCBb7fZGCq1kU3IfWkfiym0uKy8ahfQkGjNjSMAShrrZc6t0GJlmxn-MXiDWzYd0daKRkIWpCMJ5a2Jf5N8ZB1U8drO9hOJJhqtdBbFb8_Sa/s400/IMGA0256.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div>Our first full day in Queenstown was too overcast to fly over to Milford Sound so we did a scenic flight of the Mountains and glaciers around Queenstown then on to the coast more north of Milford Sound. We flew with the private company that had flown the crew of The Lord of The Rings Trilogy. The pilot was great about pointing out the various places that were used for filming. After the flight we had a picnic at Amisfield winery. Then we went to Arrowtown for a river walk and play in the stream. We toured an old turn of the century chinese gold mining camp. Some of us were a bit grumpy and over the "fellowship of the camper". A little lull is inevitable in any long family trip. Since it was pouring down rain we skipped the evening church service we had been planning on attending and went to the campsite and to bed early. We felt refreshed this morning for another full day of scenic flying this time to Milford Sound. More on the Sound which is actually a Fiord later.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-82031358678134475342009-01-18T19:59:00.006+13:002009-01-18T21:43:03.086+13:00Queenstown<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292528927839878018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifU67XFpfrbYYeR3eBnt38jBrLT_adckbs6kH8vZ6OkWvd9BACTQKHdMmyHhHOO66hOAz2BYm_Ik7MrUXcYQGeXHsA0hbR5m7G8_sZBs2QTIduROTcui8RHT_AjVhdSh-nwmY3R_xiFrMj/s400/IMGA0182.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292532448496402866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfPMby5i9mMIA3hp6bOkkFJEoLPHhrzFmIlsqmVPOEPAPNneXFCx29eniz1ySXQw4OrN9LelH8QW-j7mrbXlS1CQ7OsNFvjZ0DGqSyASwvRMN8Ujm3IXw5GrC2MfsohAx7AB_N7tsJUjz/s400/IMGA0130.JPG" border="0" /> The road trip to Queenstown went through the mountains over bridges with streams of Caribbean blue water running off the glaciers.<br /><br /><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKTeTZ3g97OFCZcTkQtmViDHfxMAzMbXxxR2-SSe6f5KSHqCXW2Q5h-Vfwr2oYRDMwizevT_UPW1kO9pP4gb60tedqUyeihUzGC77PtRyM2ylfBSuKd6uSnBUtbfnxK_7z-6pLl9NkWkf/s1600-h/IMGA0127.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292532442359028066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKTeTZ3g97OFCZcTkQtmViDHfxMAzMbXxxR2-SSe6f5KSHqCXW2Q5h-Vfwr2oYRDMwizevT_UPW1kO9pP4gb60tedqUyeihUzGC77PtRyM2ylfBSuKd6uSnBUtbfnxK_7z-6pLl9NkWkf/s400/IMGA0127.JPG" border="0" /></a> The kids had fun playing play-doh and watching movies like The Lord of The Rings Return of The King. It was amazing to see the movie and recognize the back drop similarities. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292533687651918610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ePmimp_lKLRGPTEGGBfrcQvx4SBcmqzqbyqZaAue5cAC0VnhaDR09L9NUNGfV5wAaqD_pH8bVM2J1uo43KVaZnqwkwQoEbGaz9Zf0F2nd4NAxPCcFYE4G2LVbaQunlwOgRY2xO5u7DzA/s400/IMGA0180.JPG" border="0" />The road curved it's way to the end point of Queenstown which reminded me of what Lake Tahoe looks like in pictures.<br /><br /><div> We parked the camper in this up scale lake side town and headed for the top....<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292528924927524706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2pXLly3Aj_nScvKWFWLh3x-_KVJrXw2i3mq-81iCoRxbhUhk1MDLHFxSsr3NNj5YBkXUEUaV1Llo7sqDnKlBMdULMicY6dbyt1cPWDEgzViObllVVDdUAjlF7SAG-DXJP_QDFgsVI8zcu/s400/IMGA0193.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292530203931790642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGKz855CcEH56KE0Ag5ujjc6hPRUKMV-gLKfhv2bGrKwE7y0cqCZQf421JWhGlmI2qAXFOUMZ6wNWHSDrYIAr2wJF2hQYV9h5iW_qSsxGgElLmpcLUN-DBX3yqPbycVl58j1vQoFxJ_O7s/s400/luge.JPG" border="0" />overview via Gondola (see Gondola car above Andrew's head) and then rode chair lifts (see below) a little higher up to do the luge run several times.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292530205497251410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLF6XKvW6HzUQIiW-Go7KwdvbBteoJvhyphenhyphenYtyuW61_c7PYOmL4bRmmXysaePLDoPDhndBGIIvgoGLh9v_mDW1QKz6ErdJhUPvqxN8LVHVA6lSloOQW_Zq-WI-ueqFYyfpnCKhY2XMFkXLWl/s400/chairlift.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292533684064681826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CdRTur-BuPAIs-QvokVitiquai83fmwnjybnsbjJ-T849gd1RRn7k5yo1HKT6GhGMWKuKF0JH_Hxd08UbVZR5zT9Jvqo-ON7uVm_BqmJx09MI9Z-LEcY6W6-xl_IvsvUHkZzCxEJIkYy/s400/IMGA0207.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div><br />It's an expensive town but with every extreme sport you can think of we won't be for lack of options. Don't worry, with helmets and age limits we may make it to the next town despite things like hang gliding, parachuting, canyoning, and bungy jumping. The latter saw it's commercial birth here. The Pacific Islanders did it long before using vines tied to their feet. We have seen old video footage where the vine was a little too long but men just jumped up with pride after hitting the ground. I don't think we will be trying it, pride or no pride. Maybe some nice scenic flights over the mountains and glaciers. Some pics of that will come tomorrow.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-19051321502728343082009-01-18T08:50:00.005+13:002009-01-18T09:08:44.749+13:00Singing in The Rain<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMjyWpJjjoS9fKC5QwSFnRyZ7FtIwbFIxIY5ewR5Iq3y-5UKN4hE43mvsIR_AGCPR6h2krWx9J7-B4oKrC1mED3k8QFAQwVxTRylPW8aX8hb4jS3sA7BXrqYh9G5tb9ahzb98KHm22Xeg/s1600-h/IMGA0154.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292355196766745154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMjyWpJjjoS9fKC5QwSFnRyZ7FtIwbFIxIY5ewR5Iq3y-5UKN4hE43mvsIR_AGCPR6h2krWx9J7-B4oKrC1mED3k8QFAQwVxTRylPW8aX8hb4jS3sA7BXrqYh9G5tb9ahzb98KHm22Xeg/s400/IMGA0154.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguH8WRdlk-QW2D5FelCkyICwCllb4hQqgkP-7rIjda36HDcI40bN5CHrvRrYtCqU8Y-8fxf7LirA0gmqy9T_p8c-7utZbAZFeOl2AMmqLOWj9FCy6XAAN6oBDaOwrk_5uCt-n-ch8f_FKr/s1600-h/IMGA0147.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292355181962878802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguH8WRdlk-QW2D5FelCkyICwCllb4hQqgkP-7rIjda36HDcI40bN5CHrvRrYtCqU8Y-8fxf7LirA0gmqy9T_p8c-7utZbAZFeOl2AMmqLOWj9FCy6XAAN6oBDaOwrk_5uCt-n-ch8f_FKr/s400/IMGA0147.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVmmH66-ffD0iqVUkHC-A6LEJ4dS0sZxNes12MwQdVgS78L_AvCCF92lpjeiho-F290qaEFfxy6Bk19VhxF_ET_Ih-N9GWpwq_KDdesyYMiVeH4nYCB4f9H8nIP74hViw7mcTvwD4Lnn1/s1600-h/IMGA0106.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292353716915352562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVmmH66-ffD0iqVUkHC-A6LEJ4dS0sZxNes12MwQdVgS78L_AvCCF92lpjeiho-F290qaEFfxy6Bk19VhxF_ET_Ih-N9GWpwq_KDdesyYMiVeH4nYCB4f9H8nIP74hViw7mcTvwD4Lnn1/s400/IMGA0106.JPG" border="0" /></a>After more beautiful driving we ended up at the next camp site in lake side alpine town called Wanaka. The town was a buzz with people as it was hosting a triathlon. From the campground we walked along a vineyard and the lake and then had dinner in town. It started pouring down rain while we were eating. The cab service was shut down for the road race and so we walked the 2 KM back to the campsite..... in the rain. About half way I remembered we had left the roof vents and windows open. Lynn dryed the camper out as best he could and I hot showered the kids and put their dry pajamas on. We all laughed about it except Andrew but the next day he asked if we could get a campervan when we get back to Tennessee. We did laundry through out the next morning and then packed up for the last leg to Queenstown. </div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-82688898768415068522009-01-17T07:53:00.009+13:002009-01-17T10:08:22.629+13:00Mnt Cook and The Lakes<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1DklzVODcfLNfvuasrxkkd7uatnOWRrKKR5DWu3KgrWc-7cebFo-Wg9TWvt2hvu3uPj-E1zo188lxRL8wZCDi87uwFkf0ERAKcvnmDebzD_IeZmpW0-7MM6w9NAo0bn8we6Mf6D1-zH2T/s1600-h/mntcooklakepukaki.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291994313660620386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1DklzVODcfLNfvuasrxkkd7uatnOWRrKKR5DWu3KgrWc-7cebFo-Wg9TWvt2hvu3uPj-E1zo188lxRL8wZCDi87uwFkf0ERAKcvnmDebzD_IeZmpW0-7MM6w9NAo0bn8we6Mf6D1-zH2T/s400/mntcooklakepukaki.JPG" border="0" /></a> Breathtaking beyond pictures or words!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNa73a_QS-_-zj_7A-4E64aB9j-kEcjc3IMbbxrkVM3XXgQPwOLldzJp-Hpf6tvtOSriV0jxcU07LtplHfM8nG2l1eWXOnS6MGsAMZgGNco2IF7WI8nrkjdzUbm1t5qTgAwVkag7qNIz_u/s1600-h/mntcook.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291994310667397170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNa73a_QS-_-zj_7A-4E64aB9j-kEcjc3IMbbxrkVM3XXgQPwOLldzJp-Hpf6tvtOSriV0jxcU07LtplHfM8nG2l1eWXOnS6MGsAMZgGNco2IF7WI8nrkjdzUbm1t5qTgAwVkag7qNIz_u/s400/mntcook.JPG" border="0" /></a> To say the scenery is spectacular would be an understatement. If your ever going to rent a camper van this is the place. It's like driving through the back drops of movies like The Lord of the Rings, Prince Caspian, and The Lion, Withc, and Wardrobe which were all filmed on the New Zealand South Island. The above photos are of Mnt Cook (highest peak) and Lake Pukaki.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291992911024606482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2d5vTHXbCho8Re7mg7j-zvU0ubybfDCUXOT8_aPihq5uVMkLh2c9z40cUNq-yTCDfdYrHnY8mCnfKJlvmv-ktXWmR-Bbb6Dqk2gprEzsfZiboShmJ-YBTVl9IBGFvE52-xP8BKn9iwFP-/s400/kidsanduslakepukaki.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291990480951143378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LlALh2iDv3k939E4eI8NDr9dknl5fiKCtmJhBOcs3VoWZbUvU22j78rL3YWu5_W4XAwDrpXUa6HT1MBsfKCnVEwAdP-oqn-zhzIuklvWVsXyguq5FlZPWuqsJrva8nXv_k1bblOZxcWu/s400/churchofthegoodshepherd.JPG" border="0" /> What a view from this charming stone Church of The Good Shephard on Lake Tekapo.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikI0-aQgfRCayJz00uyKXxhwH3wAMhsk7yoeKrHBtn_XS2I13slRlzupz_ktt0VUgOPENozAB2Bbo7Pji1dD1quBwiY1-Pk90CSrGyfxEWKwzwM7NrR9lf3agRp5kP31zg2OsM3OoQjBYY/s1600-h/laketekapo.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291992910970686050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikI0-aQgfRCayJz00uyKXxhwH3wAMhsk7yoeKrHBtn_XS2I13slRlzupz_ktt0VUgOPENozAB2Bbo7Pji1dD1quBwiY1-Pk90CSrGyfxEWKwzwM7NrR9lf3agRp5kP31zg2OsM3OoQjBYY/s400/laketekapo.JPG" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291991717696995666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZ0gQLTOWE4bKfP4LB1jHNL82TI3qCQfa06cttnwfdP3ZBBLAHMokLb5EFVNlC0Sc-2vYFHEseAom064r5YJX7A5Xlc89HDKRG0YuKRmIU0xOeBq1e_zx9HZQsuTlOv8t0fKwC7brvu5J/s400/churchinside.JPG" border="0" />I have been thinking a lot lately about Emmanuel, God with us. I know people struggling with marriages, the slow decline of MS, the upcoming death of friends with cancer, being sober in the face of alcoholism, and healing from lifelong emotional wounds. The promise of Christ with us as our friend, our comforter, our guide and the hope of life with him after all this is encouraging to me.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291995678527144130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgza4_GnNkT7v2TdlXgf2_5pTwKO5NLWAmNrRs7ioCO1HyNMvyjyqL0lUI6svS2_c395R-uWFfVcFQwEYffQ66DOXaAWBslFuNwNmplx6xWIycTXlqWzPK8N9ghP8u2zcM1kqyoeWacokcw/s400/churchcross.JPG" border="0" /> <div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBb_dDYo-trMj47hvaMcORNnFk6xfbwmK1cOrHkwGkPAX-sdZkNOv0uF5rdmGoSQFkxtPX0Hw9St556eC6Zc6zKKds5zBtt3Q08sd1Wx5bXPWWotKsqhs0BS33Zd9DpOj8psQZFukbr5br/s1600-h/picnic.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291991719720114642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBb_dDYo-trMj47hvaMcORNnFk6xfbwmK1cOrHkwGkPAX-sdZkNOv0uF5rdmGoSQFkxtPX0Hw9St556eC6Zc6zKKds5zBtt3Q08sd1Wx5bXPWWotKsqhs0BS33Zd9DpOj8psQZFukbr5br/s400/picnic.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Camping life isn't bad in these mountains where cars are sparse and every other one is also a campervan. The campsites are clean and well equiped with internet, large multi-use kitchens, and hot bath houses. In between campgrounds, we enjoy pulling over for a picnic like this one with scenic views. The camper below is in front of our hotel before leaving Christ Church.<br /><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TcFYHW-QJOrdx7pVti02KyjJTYyZSHydBxDMe3CZDxvfkcPq7Eutil3PDAbJq-wrZbSdaA7HTQFZwlWLtt20yVe8A5036Ghoo2tQZ-81p4hifRRsuCOOr27bD6DfTtEnmrvIPKEWkRVc/s1600-h/start2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291989713058854578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TcFYHW-QJOrdx7pVti02KyjJTYyZSHydBxDMe3CZDxvfkcPq7Eutil3PDAbJq-wrZbSdaA7HTQFZwlWLtt20yVe8A5036Ghoo2tQZ-81p4hifRRsuCOOr27bD6DfTtEnmrvIPKEWkRVc/s400/start2.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291970821855808962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKkOAr48AqZk9f_xaqBaNFvBwSfEH_8wrl_huMB_meLERQMgS1fRqWvG4yX4AUE35usUTMlnaJGfHZgxKEiwo9KUDocVXhymKaDg3g1J4umYUq87N8ImKZPk65sleU-zIRTlSBzz8tNLq/s400/tubing1.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs9QYz4VqscLCjRyTZ2v6NCeOvc-tN6cYc_3cB6mrC9s3kLdAuVhkroTP2Q0x3OLpeBFGRrP9rOxPu_GCVKx0_uL28GAs3Fp3TfThVAzXc7FpZQ-7gw2U-7BGKMv45_sRa-QbiywmpEcS/s1600-h/tubing2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291970825852912514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs9QYz4VqscLCjRyTZ2v6NCeOvc-tN6cYc_3cB6mrC9s3kLdAuVhkroTP2Q0x3OLpeBFGRrP9rOxPu_GCVKx0_uL28GAs3Fp3TfThVAzXc7FpZQ-7gw2U-7BGKMv45_sRa-QbiywmpEcS/s400/tubing2.JPG" border="0" /></a> The first night at Omerama we had a campsite with wild flowers, a creek and a view of the distant mountains (below). Lynn and the kids enjoyed tubing a short stretch of the creek by our campsite. It all brought back sweet memories of my childhood camping in the Smokies except this time I watched from a folding camp chair with a cold one.<br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEd37rXjv7sj-amypbdWiTtZlhqaG3YraZ-0M6gH2_zxgiu-I8DmULFaAsvS9RpA9jm4owyJJcdNH6COwscYbckR5Sd6xsNWOIFbweerLN-llBUfGc70wSwbadrrXSjK2zU1ifbEy7BS06/s1600-h/omaramasite.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291970819901207602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEd37rXjv7sj-amypbdWiTtZlhqaG3YraZ-0M6gH2_zxgiu-I8DmULFaAsvS9RpA9jm4owyJJcdNH6COwscYbckR5Sd6xsNWOIFbweerLN-llBUfGc70wSwbadrrXSjK2zU1ifbEy7BS06/s400/omaramasite.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvd4Kw_OyMV7Y1oY28k3hvgYQC4K8q6oxc2CkclWeIPOKErv_Dk31cc2rKT-05mWqDsRms5Qh0S1TAVHnud0JyMtzzWOkCyVQ4u686H24E02snHReqsLQA_aq4q3n0yktHkbfl8dECUEa3/s1600-h/spaghettinight.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291970816504888738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvd4Kw_OyMV7Y1oY28k3hvgYQC4K8q6oxc2CkclWeIPOKErv_Dk31cc2rKT-05mWqDsRms5Qh0S1TAVHnud0JyMtzzWOkCyVQ4u686H24E02snHReqsLQA_aq4q3n0yktHkbfl8dECUEa3/s400/spaghettinight.JPG" border="0" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br />After tubing there was "Spaghetti night" in the camper and then to bed for another day treking through the mountains.Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8243298096992872674.post-25711393853721645982009-01-16T16:59:00.008+13:002009-01-26T14:12:44.816+13:00Christ Church<div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291743992953305170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglR57WlY8UvyDpKsFH3rssjXpalZdX5gJ5NjS6mKESVvNyQAVa1Ed_7s-5Lyb2DwaJdRpBooJGKUVtuEg2jAxPuvavTx-6f7f-sPxa79zNUIYw4dLnjjV_KRYyS1f-Y-j9eomLgg_Mba26/s400/face.JPG" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MfwYf3oWeqpcwxkpR23f6xqlKTIGLL3PFqz7lpa2-dJZA3hqquN8INghwMtFAu8AV7rD7GtB_qD3XoPRv2oOF83cgpo-ABEkYhGENzs70aTbU9Hl1U0Kx2UeyTwgRxLHe-N09-Uyg9vs/s1600-h/scott.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291746828073160210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MfwYf3oWeqpcwxkpR23f6xqlKTIGLL3PFqz7lpa2-dJZA3hqquN8INghwMtFAu8AV7rD7GtB_qD3XoPRv2oOF83cgpo-ABEkYhGENzs70aTbU9Hl1U0Kx2UeyTwgRxLHe-N09-Uyg9vs/s400/scott.JPG" border="0" /></a> Christ Church is the gate way to the South Pole. This statue remembers Robert Falcon Scott the early antarctic explorer from England. Seeing the Antarctica has always been a dream of Lynn's but this is as close as I'll go.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljdIyUixi1UZug_iIeApUmYJV0pe-FDANrfEbt6-bBqURGOu-V7lQ5A2BV6uyIT7fLtqfZNNemHMs0bM0wP10W2LLkCN25Bp63FRn-6grQ9h6wCz-YG0P3_8mTW25PGQbc-MKHpbLMEOt/s1600-h/hydrangeaclose.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291746825598675506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljdIyUixi1UZug_iIeApUmYJV0pe-FDANrfEbt6-bBqURGOu-V7lQ5A2BV6uyIT7fLtqfZNNemHMs0bM0wP10W2LLkCN25Bp63FRn-6grQ9h6wCz-YG0P3_8mTW25PGQbc-MKHpbLMEOt/s400/hydrangeaclose.JPG" border="0" /></a> Anna and I have a love of the hydrangea flower which is abundantely blooming here in pinks, purples, and blues. They remind us of my grandmother the late Mae Needham and of Pappa who both love them as well.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5xMibYZKT_1C9Gjfv022ewWQ8pKl-LnPbvsX84qAv13MlYlEKjhPvLG6t49qM1MoZlGeR-eYC9Dvx0XDT13RQgNq-OigkYm-kxW4gkY4US8xTrm03mIsOLLUunTk50bMam45cnqTNQoo/s1600-h/archkids.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291746822088316162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5xMibYZKT_1C9Gjfv022ewWQ8pKl-LnPbvsX84qAv13MlYlEKjhPvLG6t49qM1MoZlGeR-eYC9Dvx0XDT13RQgNq-OigkYm-kxW4gkY4US8xTrm03mIsOLLUunTk50bMam45cnqTNQoo/s400/archkids.JPG" border="0" /></a> The botanical garden was a huge highlight of the city.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPxMCLUzLfPVZN_guMe61ne_fLs05PlUBxphXje_YITJDkB0IKOzKe1GOUBxOmuh9HUTBlc8N3i43r8cv_HWGpaPSAZjMtyaOtQWTdOs_L4o-fXyzWakJgJpgz1dq-koc0zLD5bSEzsVS/s1600-h/cherylangle.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291746815968440562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPxMCLUzLfPVZN_guMe61ne_fLs05PlUBxphXje_YITJDkB0IKOzKe1GOUBxOmuh9HUTBlc8N3i43r8cv_HWGpaPSAZjMtyaOtQWTdOs_L4o-fXyzWakJgJpgz1dq-koc0zLD5bSEzsVS/s400/cherylangle.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwpDSryG2RfkV_OvsJI1PrfgLCmV-rHfhMUKElB4aMT6b19kp_nNAUPphWx-tOKtq1beK5J59sNQAsYehBAXvX9WUZGyqrLJecCO7hDqbpHoiDw5Gord83aanSxlenMDvC_39jYrB6cJZ/s1600-h/rosekids.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291744008406338194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwpDSryG2RfkV_OvsJI1PrfgLCmV-rHfhMUKElB4aMT6b19kp_nNAUPphWx-tOKtq1beK5J59sNQAsYehBAXvX9WUZGyqrLJecCO7hDqbpHoiDw5Gord83aanSxlenMDvC_39jYrB6cJZ/s400/rosekids.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Christ Church has a trolly system as well as punting (Men pushing boats with long canes) on the Avon River. Both add to the charm of this city.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfM01XPiArYu0ZRsJsYIPmZ0jQqnJGA4a0GMv5uyj8sO0bi-vD9WZHjcWOF-iA0TYQbKxv4RZdiE34EIZaQ8e3HRFBW_SzDVIzVAIHG6eZrTgqc59_WpC-XAzJN00EZRQ1AFwvYjMwJkip/s1600-h/trolly.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291743999021264754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfM01XPiArYu0ZRsJsYIPmZ0jQqnJGA4a0GMv5uyj8sO0bi-vD9WZHjcWOF-iA0TYQbKxv4RZdiE34EIZaQ8e3HRFBW_SzDVIzVAIHG6eZrTgqc59_WpC-XAzJN00EZRQ1AFwvYjMwJkip/s400/trolly.JPG" border="0" /></a> The city boasts beautiful stone architecture which adds an old world feel.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FnoiyKT5UUkI_5N_dmih6kdqKbILUwao2z-BzCNJ0AOJ3UlCGWl33nNQzQ9WCS_Kec08aryPTJghOZdhEkhXjPUSrUtg5NoUb3Ole2fC6b67CsbJuogDKv4MZpwe07okvZCHVQ84WsdQ/s1600-h/lecafe.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291743996295745266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FnoiyKT5UUkI_5N_dmih6kdqKbILUwao2z-BzCNJ0AOJ3UlCGWl33nNQzQ9WCS_Kec08aryPTJghOZdhEkhXjPUSrUtg5NoUb3Ole2fC6b67CsbJuogDKv4MZpwe07okvZCHVQ84WsdQ/s400/lecafe.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291740182165745954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj41MNzvsz_BIpVNNXHQx-L5CEHo1DI-yN2PO_zqAPvvAiEJLYQrzupDNzzoozAql9nj-RIv_MExOzLH6mcZQB8wQt_UaGKyVjPSiAL41VyXcoUF7TqIOig6n-TeU0jPTgCBRC1KXdH7-Ec/s400/architecture.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzI-wbV5IhDKCWzxGzkG1Wo6mM9hZDBkFuLENNfvzoyILP9MFpoB8ib6nZ0tC6eknMcJabB7vLf24CAq604SUnVfvGDC0m5tpSsXwa7_PmAyO6ncyNyPKDspyp9KXfBB9dSKIn8Zy06j3r/s1600-h/cathedral.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291740184639327794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzI-wbV5IhDKCWzxGzkG1Wo6mM9hZDBkFuLENNfvzoyILP9MFpoB8ib6nZ0tC6eknMcJabB7vLf24CAq604SUnVfvGDC0m5tpSsXwa7_PmAyO6ncyNyPKDspyp9KXfBB9dSKIn8Zy06j3r/s400/cathedral.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The Cathedral below and in the background above is a city centre (English spelling used here) piece.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292559294458812178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQv84VgYTRZVlb5wM1YBKMBs8kp1xDKYfBI4pO_BbCK9bSK8gmtSi-P0Ay8ncg_saSZYubG8U5P84cbgfOWctBm79LTbasxjqgCKgsmlpy7RS9ma8Y4mToaZxPzxFlHM9fE5Hq-_8NrU6/s400/cathedralchristchurch.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div>The first full day in Christ Church was spent on a train ride 5 hours over a mountain range through Arthur's pass and back another 5 hours in the same day. We ran into Gene Baillie from Anderson Pathology. Amazing!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295403724543895826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Dqq6nBIri8WkDtxncOXridP2fMUDPXbG6ZHhGnpybOPUIm0FyTQa0Y8rykIDBuApa5TkDzM0CRuY-YDnaSw_RHA7pcMrrkeXG9fXXZEtQvXy5Xww7jTcWUOs0DIL0L1Eq4-oTI5LB-ak/s400/P1120093.jpg" border="0" />It was a long day but the views were amazing and a lot of fun (like this photo of Uno) in the cabin car.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoolxqi70AIaW7FGmG2wCnfhp98w5T84lZndiTmj5bqB-8rCkKfjPX4puzDNYp8CD-bMXGggSM4mUUbP9OWcF7pVlYH5I1Lah1gony9qLcG8Tq62nMXJnCP9LwhRGvl2rDFHNkbgVmTHY/s1600-h/uno.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291740178120219138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoolxqi70AIaW7FGmG2wCnfhp98w5T84lZndiTmj5bqB-8rCkKfjPX4puzDNYp8CD-bMXGggSM4mUUbP9OWcF7pVlYH5I1Lah1gony9qLcG8Tq62nMXJnCP9LwhRGvl2rDFHNkbgVmTHY/s400/uno.JPG" border="0" /></a>This view was of the front of the train from the observation deck.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTgtKcj89dPTCL-Icu7aM5HPOm95Q_I3X7AjHx9yprcFrpPV5FeJDepQb8UBHtIvQg-O_lG2o2ijlW8lIRIE5ix5qCQViQbdMVhm1GISVRuLJaXd2Sr4X2nl2GMO1eJ0jBXp7VpFLL7ic/s1600-h/onthego.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291740173908023394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTgtKcj89dPTCL-Icu7aM5HPOm95Q_I3X7AjHx9yprcFrpPV5FeJDepQb8UBHtIvQg-O_lG2o2ijlW8lIRIE5ix5qCQViQbdMVhm1GISVRuLJaXd2Sr4X2nl2GMO1eJ0jBXp7VpFLL7ic/s400/onthego.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Below is a gorge we passed along the way.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpb5MJMCAetbJC4gyMaRKwNcy-Obe2eivZKHRBS9XxkykWsZ-KxTAH5qM9JrYlSfpK1jzwGVkrqJIUI0eA8tV9jVoKC1Q0Bwp8dcVd70Evk38RItmkgYnmFc5RB6q8hjh0c-NfvIjG1sva/s1600-h/gorge3.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291738355792864546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpb5MJMCAetbJC4gyMaRKwNcy-Obe2eivZKHRBS9XxkykWsZ-KxTAH5qM9JrYlSfpK1jzwGVkrqJIUI0eA8tV9jVoKC1Q0Bwp8dcVd70Evk38RItmkgYnmFc5RB6q8hjh0c-NfvIjG1sva/s400/gorge3.JPG" border="0" /></a> The big sky views were stunning like this cloud shrouded mountain below.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_u7NRn3Zk6AdhLb0CYCtbUhPOl9O1ptOdtQCwt37xdCAfOE5PrMLPp58eWpWkThWJY2xvq8KPVn1cIOHDlyNOox0C_F0oDCS3x2xHTv5gPVIz7Q3Pqy9XWjsUO_b61gRRmI5MXGcFzdx/s1600-h/cloud.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291738347760850338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_u7NRn3Zk6AdhLb0CYCtbUhPOl9O1ptOdtQCwt37xdCAfOE5PrMLPp58eWpWkThWJY2xvq8KPVn1cIOHDlyNOox0C_F0oDCS3x2xHTv5gPVIz7Q3Pqy9XWjsUO_b61gRRmI5MXGcFzdx/s400/cloud.JPG" border="0" /></a> The boys took photos from the observation deck below.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmgwudw7qMD5SxJlqJp3XzQp5_hZcRbUmJOMw4jOFznySinoUqtGeFDqnGokv7X6FHtqeN72RsXSTuhugf2CHaulIbyD_Sjbh9_8lNaiwLdTL5uB3k06-Neg1nKvS7i1oobLfImwM5-9x/s1600-h/boys.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291738343194106962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmgwudw7qMD5SxJlqJp3XzQp5_hZcRbUmJOMw4jOFznySinoUqtGeFDqnGokv7X6FHtqeN72RsXSTuhugf2CHaulIbyD_Sjbh9_8lNaiwLdTL5uB3k06-Neg1nKvS7i1oobLfImwM5-9x/s400/boys.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Some of the mountains were high enough to still have snow in summer like the ones in the distance.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubdXnzPokiPPC9UtrIwbEiC6-Q7n2Omd-zFX-F-76ujyddbXUPj1Ou3Ln21bTYJneheHrU-H_ngfK8Cgd8OJBh3jhJlOyeKmiy6DfjZiNIsl7fMKsrf1i-oTlcLgNAkFlKqj8nSwS9NFX/s1600-h/bigsky.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291738336927724050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubdXnzPokiPPC9UtrIwbEiC6-Q7n2Omd-zFX-F-76ujyddbXUPj1Ou3Ln21bTYJneheHrU-H_ngfK8Cgd8OJBh3jhJlOyeKmiy6DfjZiNIsl7fMKsrf1i-oTlcLgNAkFlKqj8nSwS9NFX/s400/bigsky.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>On Thursday we said "Goodbye" to Cheryl and headed out for a trip in a camper van. More on that later.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07369060055620243766noreply@blogger.com1