Guest blog from Jody

As Jody leaves her first international trip to New Zealand behind, her thoughts and reflections:

When Tara first told me that she was going to be living in New Zealand, my first response was, “Oh, I will have to come and visit” (Yeah right).  I have to admit that even though I said it to her, I really didn’t think that it would happen.  We entertained the idea as Tara and Bret’s departure crept up and all throughout their time away.  The longer they were gone the more fate worked to bring us together in New Zealand.  A lot of things in my life fell into place in the most unexpected and sometimes unwanted ways, but those are the things that eventually led me to book my flight and take a trip to the land of the kiwis.
   
Seeing Tara and Bret immediately after I arrived in Christchurch was like pure joy and instant comfort.  No matter how different my surroundings were during this trip, I always felt perfectly at home in their company; they made me feel so welcomed the entire time, and they were always there to make sure I was having a true kiwi experience ( I didn’t need the bus for that!).  It would be impossible for me to describe what this trip meant to me, how much it altered my reality, sharpened my outlook, eased my transition, and helped me to let go.  All I can say is that my eyes were opened so wide that I woke up every morning with eye aches!
    
My relationship with Tara has always been strong, although tested, and it continues to grow through our experiences together and apart.  Eternally there for each other no matter how far apart. A welcomed gift of this journey was the opportunity to re-connect with Bret and build on our friendship as well.  I have known Bret since he started dating Tara but never had the opportunity to see what kind of man he really was until this trip.  He is incredibly genuine, intelligent, considerate, determined, and loves Tara completely (something we have in common…among other things).  Seeing this newly engaged couple and celebrating their engagement with them for the first time was a treasure.  I am truly happy for them both and support them fully as a couple, as I have finally gotten to know them as a couple.  Congratulations again!
            
Final thought:  Go for it!  Live every moment like a new adventure and take what life gives you.  If it gives you kiwiss, make jam!

Cheers mates!
Jody