beginning to back blog

I'm back from my tour of the rest of the south island and am now playing catch up for the days I was gone!!!

Today I awoke super early, eager to check the internet's airport status of Jody's overnight flights.  I was incredibly disappointed to wake up to yet another day of Christchurch rain.  I had wished and hoped with all my might for a sunny day (it's been cold and rainy for at least two weeks!) for Jody's first day in New Zealand.  I ran about the flat, getting last minute things done, packing my suitcase for our trip the next day, and trying desperately to get my clothes dry from the night before!  The cold and damp rain has prevented effective clothes drying...ugh!  Finally, I dragged Bret out of bed, fussed over getting ready, and we were off to the airport.  I couldn't believe it!

At the airport I was nervous and determined to spot Jody before Bret.  When I finally did, I ran towards her and it was an embrace I'll never forget.  I had to squeeze her just to be sure she was really there!  Whoo hoo!  New Zealand here we are!

We ventured back to the flat for a quick tour and champagne toast, and then headed out into the city for a brief tour of cathedral square and lunch.  It was great sharing Mexican Cafe with Jody, and staying warm on the windy day while enjoying good food and friends inside.  Later that evening, Jody and I went to the mall for a bit of shopping, stocking up on NZ junk food for the trip, and met Bret for a gourmet pizza dinner at our second favorite restaurant, Cocopelli.  We had to call it an early night...train departed at 8 am the next day!