wop-wops

I apologize for not updating my blog this past week. I've been spending a lot of time with people from church and I've also been quite addicted to the last Harry Potter book. I don't fully understand part of the ending, so if anyone has read it and wants to explain, please email me. :)

So what have I been up to?

I've spent quite a lot of time with my "flatmates," Stephanie and Walter. We went to Mission Bay one day, as well as some other perfect summer spots. Unfortunately, it has rained quite a bit here lately, so my pictures aren't the greatest. While we were in Mission Bay, I was happy to see they have a Movenpick, an ice cream shop I loved in Germany. Also, we stopped to get some fish and chips. Seeing as how I don't eat seafood though, I just got the chips.

One of the brothers, Mo, met me downtown one day. We went to the Auckland Museum and the botanical gardens next door. It should come as no surprise that as we were leaving the Museum, I was totally into the view and fell down the concrete stairs. As Mo tried not to laugh, I didn't hold back. The bruises I acquire are more like trophies these days, and the one on my back is one to be proud of. The museum was different from other's I've been to. It was full of the most random stuff, but was enjoyable nonetheless. As we were leaving, it began to pour (big surprise), but I got to see the most defined rainbow I've ever laid eyes on.

Stephanie and Walter left me in charge on Friday night during the Singles event that took place at their house. That was interesting...people kept asking me where things were, and I didn't know. Oops.

I've been getting to know another married couple as well, Deanna and Mark. They have two cute little boys that are always providing some sort of entertainment.

Yesterday I went downtown to apply at more hotels. I also hung out with Julia for a bit. She's currently working at a cafe, but only plans to stay in Auckland for two months. Afterwards, she is planning to travel and work throughout the country. While everything in me would love to do the same, I don't think that would be wise for me spiritually. I will do some traveling while I'm here, but I think it's best that I stay based in Auckland.

Besides, I like my living situation. Walter and Stephanie have been great and done everything they can to make me feel welcome. I also don't mind riding the train to and from the city. It's not that cheap, but considering the fact that I don't have a car, it's not that bad. Not only that, but the idea of driving on the other side of the road freaks me out. For instance, last night I tried to get in on the driver's side. Roundabouts also scare me, and I'm still constantly reminding myself to look RIGHT-LEFT-RIGHT before crossing the street. Don't worry, I use the crosswalk when I can.

I was hoping that I would be able to pick up the accent while I am here, but I've found that to be impossible. It's easier to mock an Australian, but the Kiwi's sound different. Walter and Stephanie have been laughing at me as I try to mimic them. Every word I say sounds British. I don't get it. I can have a British accent any time I want, but I cannot sound like a Kiwi at all. Sigh.

It's almost been like learning a foreign language in some aspects. For instance, the trunk of a car is called a boot. I love the differences. I'm going to be really messed up when I come back to the States. Ha ha.

Well, I must go now. I will post pictures soon! (Maybe even today?)