holiday reflection

Being on holiday (such a common NZ term), was much needed.  We have worked so hard to get to NZ for what seems like so long, and after being in the country for over 3 months, it was so nice to be able to see its glory, finally.  Life in Chch has been surprisingly hectic, especially before the holidays, and sometimes, it's easy to get so drawn into work that we forget that we're even here!  Which has caused stress and frustration from time to time.  Having the extended vacation, without the connection to the internet, was so wonderful.  We spent free time lounging, and naps were a regular afternoon occurrence.  We bought a deck of cards and had ongoing games of gin rummy, and I read two books.  Laying on the beach, or relaxing on the deck was one of my favorite pastimes.  I didn't have anything to worry about, and it provided me with a much needed opportunity to reflect.  The thing I missed the most was being able to blog daily about my experience.  In my think time on the bus, my blogs would start writing themselves in my head.  However, so did a creeping sense of obligation to finish them as soon as possible when I returned.  I came to NZ to learn to relax, to slow down, and take it all in.  They're a little behind on the times, everything is a much slower pace, and I had always heard that it was just a chilled-out place.  Yet, since being here, I have been overwhelmed with working my three jobs, planning for our little trips, and 'getting things done'.  It's the American in me, what can I say?  The holiday provided an excellent opportunity to give in to the kiwi way, and I loved it, and can't wait to do it again.  I always feel like I'm running to stand still, or speeding up to slow down.  If I learn nothing else here, I hope to find that balance between running around like a crazy woman, and being bored out of my mind, finding my center and purpose, while taking the time to treat myself to relaxing moments regularly, taking it all in.