tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50149705501035130782024-03-05T00:45:15.000-08:00Only Natasha: 52 Weeks52 weeks can pass us by in a blink of an eye. Then we realize that we didn't do anything we said we would.
Well I refuse to keep doing this. This blog is to see what I can do in 52 weeks. I've a goal of 25 things to focus on this year, one of which is learning to dance tango well.
This blog will cover the processes of accomplishing these goals. As well as cover bits of my life and the crazy things that happen. Not to mention deals, events and anything too good to keep to myself.Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.comBlogger161125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-16632045762544951042018-06-25T00:03:00.002-07:002018-07-13T10:51:33.580-07:0035 things in 35 days of my birthdayI want to kick start myself and while I have accomplished things on my list, I have not checked them off nor documented them really. I have gotten real lazy in this area of life and I do not like to be lazy! Thus I am gonna challenge myself with a simple rule/game: <i>to accomplish 35 things within 35 days of my birthday.</i><br />
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<u>Questions I ask myself:</u><br />
<ul>
<li>Is this ambitious? <b>Yes</b></li>
<li>Is this impractical? <b>Yes</b></li>
<li>Is it a touch ridiculous? <b>Yes</b></li>
<li>Is it do-able? <b>Will be fun to try!!</b></li>
<li>Should you join me? <b>Why the heck not?</b></li>
</ul>
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<b>Start: June 30th My birthday: August 4th End: September 8th</b></div>
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Things to note, if it has initials and is italicized the activity has been spoken for. If it is in bold, I am already starting a plan for it. <br />
<br />
<u>List of 35 things to accomplish:</u><br />
<ol>
<li><b>Participate in a food fight</b></li>
<li><b>Participate in a Murder Mystery Dinner (I've two tickets)</b></li>
<li><b>Host a formal dinner</b></li>
<li><b>Write a letter to myself in 10 years time</b> </li>
<li>Learn to make Sushi</li>
<li>Jet ski</li>
<li><i>Food Adventure - T.N</i></li>
<i>
</i>
<li>Cover a car in post-it notes </li>
<li>Write a kid's book</li>
<li><i>Kidnap a friend - Z.F</i></li>
<li>Experience "0" gravity iFly</li>
<li><i><b>Yes day - </b>Both: known - A.I.<b> </b>7.7<b> and unknown version 8.??</b></i></li>
<li>Learn about wine</li>
<li>Cliff-dive</li>
<li>Float American River or Cherry Creek(or one near by)</li>
<li><b>Peephole cinema </b></li>
<li>LSD Museum </li>
<li>Megowans Infinity Maze </li>
<li>Saran wrap a car </li>
<li>Fly kites for real </li>
<li>Pool party</li>
<li>Bachelorette style party </li>
<li>Blind date</li>
<li><i>Les Miserables - A.I. 8.14</i></li>
<li>Drive a Ferrari</li>
<li>Get a complete makeover </li>
<li><b>Sail the bay</b></li>
<b>
</b>
<li>Party on a Cable Car</li>
<li><b>Party on BART</b></li>
<li><b>Albion Castle</b></li>
<li>Babylon Beach Blanket</li>
<li><b>Stewart street slides</b></li>
<li>Passive income </li>
<li>Crash a wedding</li>
<li>Visit the <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/short-story-vending-machine" target="_blank">Short Story Machine</a></li>
</ol>
Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-84790355834268860832017-01-29T13:58:00.000-08:002017-01-29T13:59:01.607-08:002017 25 things to doIt has been a long time since I have written a blog or even picked my list. I started this years ago for a reason: to live an active life and not to just 'say' things but actually do what I say and set out to do. Thus I am getting back to making sure my life is spectacular. So here is my list for 2016:<br />
<br />
1. Become a Geocashe expert, personal goal: find 1,000 cashes and stash 100<br />
2. Jet ski<br />
3. Salsa – really well<br />
4. Swim scuba or snorkel a shipwreck<br />
5. Play pool well<br />
6. Fly kites for real<br />
7. Learn how to sew<br />
8. Make sushi<br />
9. Really surf<br />
10. Learn how to pick a lock<br />
11. Try Flyboarding<br />
12. Learn how to code (HTML)<br />
13. Become a Salesforce expert<br />
14. Attend a murder mystery dinner<br />
15. Run a half marathon<br />
16. Kidnap and treat a friend to a surprise day<br />
17. African Safari<br />
18. Eat/Sleep in an under water restaurant. <br />
19. Write a Kid’s book - have the idea, step one!<br />
20. Go on a food adventure<br />
21. Fire dance<br />
22. Para sail<br />
23. Cover someone’s car in post it notes<br />
24. Carnival Rio/Bahia<br />
25. BahamasNatashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-78730147035483841802015-10-29T08:56:00.001-07:002015-10-29T08:56:51.108-07:00Hair Donation
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It has been forever since I posted anything… and decided
that I should start with something small but worthy. My whole life people have
gone gaga for my hair and obsess over it way more than I ever would. Granted
they just have to look at it or get to play with it, not actually deal with it
24/7.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtHDtZNjrk6ifQvQaeRw3IFZCW2HGpQ9GI_92mYkm6hiSjY35yDl0d8rFU7H0pLAJTKDuimtchYAtaLwpWlGDboiKrV3z8UWA4ddKe2ArNgEvvpWIYyldTc3h04flPONAXisv1sDyTd5w/s1600/20151028_100240.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtHDtZNjrk6ifQvQaeRw3IFZCW2HGpQ9GI_92mYkm6hiSjY35yDl0d8rFU7H0pLAJTKDuimtchYAtaLwpWlGDboiKrV3z8UWA4ddKe2ArNgEvvpWIYyldTc3h04flPONAXisv1sDyTd5w/s320/20151028_100240.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Every so often, I get sick of this massive mane of my hair.
When I decided to cut it all off, I always donate it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVq2ZNb_tB8xxjI_7mlYAkerNzEfjeyysYyTeFNhW6jdoNXj0_oFh5UMPffjpAhXYmPy_HJHuGATEREDP-1VIWYQ85wPmWcc1NMcLTxy7kAOvd0zveOw9kOSnO1HVHjk-Uik1lXJp0j0/s1600/20151028_214635.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVq2ZNb_tB8xxjI_7mlYAkerNzEfjeyysYyTeFNhW6jdoNXj0_oFh5UMPffjpAhXYmPy_HJHuGATEREDP-1VIWYQ85wPmWcc1NMcLTxy7kAOvd0zveOw9kOSnO1HVHjk-Uik1lXJp0j0/s320/20151028_214635.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now this usually causes a bit of an uproar, but it is my
hair on my head… right? I do not always go for too drastic of a cut, this most
people appreciate. All in all, a weight is lifted from me. If you have ever had
a bad hair day, can you imagine what a no hair day is like after cancer or
another serious illness? I can’t, that is the main reason I do this. It is my forth time making a donation and if you are thinking of
cutting a lot of your hair off… you should consider doing so too.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9_kJx4Y_1dSTCWZ9an9IW2F-oJHpzm7KOgpNHnhfP2wdYfzgSuwIKaW8dMVi31138SRTOCseHLGvRA3kNnfCx-qNGyrcLVUzYijwdKWnJCKA2J0oUGoHbnr3_VfCaxsuk7d2xwWNvsI/s1600/20151028_214812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9_kJx4Y_1dSTCWZ9an9IW2F-oJHpzm7KOgpNHnhfP2wdYfzgSuwIKaW8dMVi31138SRTOCseHLGvRA3kNnfCx-qNGyrcLVUzYijwdKWnJCKA2J0oUGoHbnr3_VfCaxsuk7d2xwWNvsI/s320/20151028_214812.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
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I would do some research before you choose, I used to give to Locks of Love but they sell their wigs now. Thus I have to change and am looking at either <a href="http://www.wigsforkids.org/" target="_blank">Wigs for Kids</a> at <a href="http://www.wigsforkids.org/" target="_blank">http://www.wigsforkids.org/</a> or <a href="http://www.childrenwithhairloss.us/" target="_blank">Children with Hair Loss</a> at <a href="http://www.childrenwithhairloss.us/">http://www.childrenwithhairloss.us/</a>. </div>
Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-2691087076664385592014-10-02T10:45:00.000-07:002014-10-31T11:11:59.962-07:00Painting and not by numbers<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Finally got the "OK" to decorate the
apartment a bit. WHOO HOO!! I have been wanting to do this for a long while. Naturally now that I could, I was having such a hard time finding art I liked that was in my price range.
The search to find ‘art’ was taking such a long time, and I was antsy. I wanted to get started on decorating! So, I ended up deciding to
make the art myself. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Before doing this, I spent a while looking for art
examples. I wanted to find one I liked and also thought was reasonably easy to recreate.<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Once I got my ideas, I went to <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/?wmcp=google&wmckw=[blicks]&wmcid=adwords&cid=psgex072611114&gclid=Cj0KEQjw5syiBRCwxPbE6o_MsK4BEiQAUowjploQ7v8uZM7faqPSV7i0-DN8EmMxKf1ldubF1_nvDiUaAknr8P8HAQ" target="_blank">Blicks</a> and got
supplies with a friend (Thank you Mr.A). Came home, set up the tarp on the patio to protect
it and the walls while I was painting. I know my hun would be concerned about the mess and then got ready to start. </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After I started, I was surprised by how
relaxing and enjoyable painting was. I was even more startled that the
paintings actually came out pretty darn good! For the price of one art piece, I
made myself four and put my own touch on it. Go ahead and check them out, they are below!</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The first is a three piece set:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgx8tEdL6g0n0NQZJci9uWHDSm2-EPJ7k4BPK2_pn60Q2h664OHFjOG0Rhyphenhyphenib4XGxgUoLEc-X-m1H2VEerYMoLji4wsMTekuOqSaz8LCblZwNqierk1B5yVRbAU2X-ql5X4azKapMefI/s1600/Trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgx8tEdL6g0n0NQZJci9uWHDSm2-EPJ7k4BPK2_pn60Q2h664OHFjOG0Rhyphenhyphenib4XGxgUoLEc-X-m1H2VEerYMoLji4wsMTekuOqSaz8LCblZwNqierk1B5yVRbAU2X-ql5X4azKapMefI/s1600/Trees.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I decided to pick trees for a few reasons, one I really always liked the woods and two I always was able to draw them. Though I did not want the images to be really identical, I wanted them to be from different perspectives of time and distance. In the ended I really liked how these paintings came out and feel like one is almost walking through the woods. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The second art piece is:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu0EazA2UDAGCWoyoCQo25U7IZDJs0n035tbC8f_ddgZjaAY98eVSThzrtGyRb7BBOvwpXkQ4ZExsljGzXx-gjqLs_4UEhyphenhyphenD8tWOxdk2GviPNjVtIRTAcwP9sgRJ01rTw63MfpLIRFnw/s1600/abstract.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu0EazA2UDAGCWoyoCQo25U7IZDJs0n035tbC8f_ddgZjaAY98eVSThzrtGyRb7BBOvwpXkQ4ZExsljGzXx-gjqLs_4UEhyphenhyphenD8tWOxdk2GviPNjVtIRTAcwP9sgRJ01rTw63MfpLIRFnw/s1600/abstract.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It is an abstract that sits above the fire place. While I will admit to liking the woods a bit better, I really love the colors in the abstract. The colors play very nicely in the living room and picks up the colors in the wood. Plus the class of calming verse chaotic movements within the painting also make it interesting to look at. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lessons learned? Everyone and anyone can find their inner artist.</span></span></div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-23178805512409947222014-06-07T19:50:00.000-07:002014-06-07T19:51:28.732-07:00My Bridesmaid Invite<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wanted to do something specially my girls, from my bridesmaids to readers... I know, but want to include a lot of good friends and it is hard to! So I hand created an invite. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWiyj35eriqLiUJ0ty2m-dyUBXqNvfwGrJ29xSj9peHRko-7N9YgRVoPl81R7lAJBK8aOq6mbpjLwJ6G8VUs4XJmBbstNyoVoY2oj4wdnFtoZWpAYUW8kT7RbfyKEGqV3U_90RPoPoto/s1600/20140601_220635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWiyj35eriqLiUJ0ty2m-dyUBXqNvfwGrJ29xSj9peHRko-7N9YgRVoPl81R7lAJBK8aOq6mbpjLwJ6G8VUs4XJmBbstNyoVoY2oj4wdnFtoZWpAYUW8kT7RbfyKEGqV3U_90RPoPoto/s1600/20140601_220635.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I also asked a friend of mine who makes jewelry (<a href="http://www.ryannmurrin.com/" target="_blank">RMD</a>) to make me rings for all the girls, with slight variations. Here are two below!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAD6mJNHJhkYHJ4gP5sLdVPmJ8AHK_FzjGhdPo0TUUamdU9DWIQt8syCV1UnbxoAn0txVUG66rr7ZhnZrzn6hu17aUUdoqcHvT0sMbTgUC-cFaRFnQ4lwGjGjeU3jwXdTaRJUQ6Zi7POA/s1600/IMG_9974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAD6mJNHJhkYHJ4gP5sLdVPmJ8AHK_FzjGhdPo0TUUamdU9DWIQt8syCV1UnbxoAn0txVUG66rr7ZhnZrzn6hu17aUUdoqcHvT0sMbTgUC-cFaRFnQ4lwGjGjeU3jwXdTaRJUQ6Zi7POA/s1600/IMG_9974.jpg" height="240" width="320" /> </a></div>
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The above rings and card I am giving to all my girls, though I thought to go the extra mile for my bridesmaids. So I decided to make them an emergency box, for themselves and me!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtV4TWDYz2-Vk4D7CJDrZTe6tDrW8Mm4bkkX-nqu5L_DppRPYREo_966IolB5eY5POHlKvUtisaMCOnJLAZjmsrrn4UhDXpoBGIr9wwyJzYNDWnW4SjjujgnGt4gZfZLaIQRe-IVkYCJA/s1600/20140604_191835.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtV4TWDYz2-Vk4D7CJDrZTe6tDrW8Mm4bkkX-nqu5L_DppRPYREo_966IolB5eY5POHlKvUtisaMCOnJLAZjmsrrn4UhDXpoBGIr9wwyJzYNDWnW4SjjujgnGt4gZfZLaIQRe-IVkYCJA/s1600/20140604_191835.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> </div>
So this means gathering an arsenal of must have's and things to help keep them sane during this insane process of being part of a wedding. So I went to Michael's got a double suitcase box and decorated the interior box. Then I went to gathering things they needed:<br />
<ul>
<li>A bottle of wine</li>
<li>Scrub</li>
<li>Massage bar</li>
<li>Shower Gel</li>
<li>Nail Polish</li>
<li>Lipgloss</li>
<li>Eyemask</li>
<li>Chocolate</li>
<li>Hair clip & ties</li>
<li>Purse key chain</li>
<li>Glow sticks</li>
<li>Balloons </li>
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Package it all up, made sure it fit and added some bubble wrap... to make it safe. </div>
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Then it was write a personal letter to them all and smile at a job well done.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYXcs9g8DeRwfuyLlvMZ5chOdwaIX2wCK9bpyHKOXj5t6xQSXrPCU9bdQ3ZDEe39zbMo6QB1ZAL88z4PVKbIkJYRFNVl4CWV_lT6lQGQ0huhgtNDsvkzX85IlRR0rJPME7pLAUmXVZKE/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYXcs9g8DeRwfuyLlvMZ5chOdwaIX2wCK9bpyHKOXj5t6xQSXrPCU9bdQ3ZDEe39zbMo6QB1ZAL88z4PVKbIkJYRFNVl4CWV_lT6lQGQ0huhgtNDsvkzX85IlRR0rJPME7pLAUmXVZKE/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
Getting to see the Northern Lights was always a part of my bucket list and I was so happy and lucky to see them multiple times. The first night that we arrived, they graced us with their presence and danced a bit for us. Below are some of our best shots:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wL_AvXq1GjiVztxgRwH2al26JXb-4Mfv9UrGzDMkeeW_sZ5VyQq3UAg5AhZ5vbUELSw5cz5sSRw2y4TK144YqinT49Hs-dqhmcHzvoJvjomkbdpapTD118_HiXEyIEHt_Nf7rPE2mnI/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wL_AvXq1GjiVztxgRwH2al26JXb-4Mfv9UrGzDMkeeW_sZ5VyQq3UAg5AhZ5vbUELSw5cz5sSRw2y4TK144YqinT49Hs-dqhmcHzvoJvjomkbdpapTD118_HiXEyIEHt_Nf7rPE2mnI/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
We also saw them on our first night at Sonar right outside the Harpa and over the harbor. It was kinda special to see them in the city so close. I almost wish we left the event to go hunt them outside away from lights. We went hunting for them on our last night and were able to see them. We pulled over to the shoulder to watch the show and ended bottoming out in the snow bank (deeper than we thought) even with a four wheel drive! Luckily we pulled over two cars, the first tried to help us find a tow, and the second was able to tow us. Which was amazing and utterly saved the day, but funny part was that it was the chef from our first hotel; they remembered us too! Thankfully people in Iceland are incredibly nice and helpful. Now I only wish the lights looked as vivid in real life as they do in the pictures!Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-36753006047202474472014-03-30T18:59:00.001-07:002014-03-30T19:07:26.545-07:00Iceland Winter Wonderland<br />
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People ask, why Iceland... and besides why not; it was for scenic landscape and a truly relaxing experience. So my hunny and tried to split the cost of the trip and figure it out. Oh we did! We also spent a good bit of time preparing and packing for the trip. The only real hiccup was that our bags took and extra day to get there. Granted our connection was so close that we barely made the flight! Finding our hotel was no easy task, since Google maps did not realize the normal route was closed for the winter. Once we did find out hotel, it was the start of a pretty perfect vacation. Below are pictures of our first hotel. </div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtptCv8hVoeqhVwfLsGOUWDtB6t4S71Edvj3qTd3MhwmsYbT926mdWj_GEFwC2zwC2AOTEjjd-gZqTXIAJvF7p2aIYQEPgHbETNLdkEYNrNCRQYDWDO2MxPueGcYSkNoHP9BQb9BM3fs/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZ-YXad2nD06GyMCZyKDi9swWL5doGJOy7OQIrDY4tlNw5ZSC4IetvwrT7qQY5hPo3lSLx6iUvMrzuL1bry2uryuFg84Eaebvotl8wp2t66z5iSnUr1Ra1TIitAFvG5vYejKdeuXuKl0/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZ-YXad2nD06GyMCZyKDi9swWL5doGJOy7OQIrDY4tlNw5ZSC4IetvwrT7qQY5hPo3lSLx6iUvMrzuL1bry2uryuFg84Eaebvotl8wp2t66z5iSnUr1Ra1TIitAFvG5vYejKdeuXuKl0/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
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We splurged at this hotel, it was top notch all around. The <a href="http://www.ioniceland.is/" target="_blank">Ion Hotel</a>'s service was fantastic, location, remoteness and with a great restaurant and spa. This was the view from our room: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSusDTwxHexH271adhrUETMZ4jnJWSgO-oNGhWXmkxG-6WeSAtwA6Ut7RRNEFDZGIXHqsMKeFh9I8tE3WqypbzKunE9O-TWbkQD5FahVWEp16dV2oeBGgLLdS8c9vfBubYHjz4JdelKcc/s1600/DSC_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSusDTwxHexH271adhrUETMZ4jnJWSgO-oNGhWXmkxG-6WeSAtwA6Ut7RRNEFDZGIXHqsMKeFh9I8tE3WqypbzKunE9O-TWbkQD5FahVWEp16dV2oeBGgLLdS8c9vfBubYHjz4JdelKcc/s1600/DSC_0054.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lucky for us, our hotel was already a bit on the outskirts so we were able to drive and see the local scenery. We also got to see the Aurora Borealis while we were at the hotel but that is for another blog. We spent a lot of time driving around and below are pictures from our first day there driving around: <br />
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Representing my almamater the University of Oregon. <br />
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Icelandic horses are a pure breed that are stout and very hairy.<br />
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Pictures of Geysir, the one which all are named from are below:<br />
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Gulafoss:<br />
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Crazy maps:<br />
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Amazing views:<br />
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What I loved so much about Iceland, besides how amazing and sweet the people were, was the light; it was PERFECT! Every moment looked magical and so picturesque. It was crazy how much like walking in a painting being in Iceland was. Add that to the fact that the air was so crisp and clean The next day we took the long way to Reykajavik: </div>
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Hanging out at the lava pools.<br />
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Enjoying the black sand beaches!<br />
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Our next hotel was called OK Hotel. It was more of a 'studio' for the week, we did not have anyone clean up after us but we had all the amenities of home. Plus it was above a great Korean fusion restaurant and bar. Check it out:<br />
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A great place to call home, and had all the amenities of one with a restaurant/bar below. Though one should note that the cold water comes off the Glacier run off and taste delicious. While the hot water is from the thermal pools and smells like rotten eggs; granted makes your skin very soft. We really did not take many pictures of the city... but there was some great graffiti: <br />
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A random office building that was also a rock climbing wall.<br />
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All the while, being on an amazing lake with an incredible mountain rain on the other side.<br />
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Plus a jewel of an opera house, that constantly changes colors and lights up.<br />
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So the next day, the day between our 3 year anniversary and Mr.A's 35th, was supposed to be his best day ever. We ended up spending most of it in a record store, him pouring over record and myself talking to any random stranger who walked through the door. This happened to be the bunch of artist who were playing at the festival we were going to at the Harpa (above) called <a href="http://sonarreykjavik.com/en/2014/prg/ar/list/#.UzjF0F5jCmE" target="_blank">Sonar</a>. <br />
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It was great! I got two CD's signed by the artist! Then we went to <a href="http://tapas.is/%E2%80%8E" target="_blank">Tapas Barinn</a>, where Mr.A got to get a special one on one with the local chef and we had an amazing dinner. I know we did not take much pictures while in the city, then we went to dinner and to our first night of the Sonar festival. Which was a lot of fun but we left a bit early so we could go on out the next drive on a drive to the Glacier...<br />
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Then randomly... a golf course sign, really wtf?<br />
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Our lunch spot:<br />
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Long open roads is all we go<br />
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The next two days we ran around the city and at night we went to Sonar to listen to amazing bands and DJs like the: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kiriyamafamily" target="_blank">Kiriyama Family</a> (signed CD), <a href="http://fmbelfast.com/" target="_blank">FM Belfast</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5014970550103513078#editor/target=post;postID=3675300604720247447;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=0;src=link" target="_blank">Major Lazer</a> with Diplo, and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5014970550103513078#editor/target=post;postID=3675300604720247447;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=0;src=link" target="_blank">Trentmollar</a>. On our last day, before heading out of the city on our way to the <a href="http://www.bluelagoon.com/" target="_blank">Blue Lagoon</a>, we snapped a few shots.<br />
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Then to the spa to relax in milky steamy blue waters.<br />
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Where the air was freezing, the water so warm, and getting a massage while floating in the healing waters. It was so fun after a long weekend partying at a Icelandic festival, Overall, the trip was amazing and great to be out and about with my love, my rock and sweetheart. Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-24174094734196094082014-02-03T09:50:00.000-08:002014-10-27T00:23:14.769-07:00Updated 100 things to doHappy this blog has helped focus me, and helped me get things done. I love that it can keep me a bit accountable with out making myself feel like I have not done enough. I managed to accomplish 37 things in four years, and that is enough to update my list!!! So what is on my 100 now? Check it out: <br />
<br />
1. Become a Geocashe expert, personal goal: find 1,000 cashes and stash 100<br />
2. Witness a solar eclipse<br />
3. Jet ski<br />
4. Para sail<br />
5. Sail<br />
6. Write book/play<br />
7. Sign language learn it<br />
8. A martial art more<br />
9. Salsa – really well<br />
10. Tango – really well<br />
11. Expert @ Wii fit<br />
12. Paragliding<br />
13. Cliff diving<br />
14. Northern lights<br />
15. Swim scuba or snorkel a shipwreck<br />
16. Drive the Coast<br />
17. Visit all 50 states of the US<br />
18. X-Country road trip<br />
19. Ride the 10 largest roller costars<br />
20. Play pool well<br />
21. Fly kites for real<br />
22. Learn how to sew<br />
23. Go to the top of the Golden Gate Bridge<br />
24. Fire dance<br />
25. Build a habitat for Humanity Home<br />
26. Learn Photoshop<br />
27. Get married<br />
28. Have and raise a health happy kid<br />
29. Make sushi<br />
30. My retirement plan<br />
31. Buy your own house<br />
32. Watch Movie list<br />
33. Watch Tyra live<br />
34. Race car<br />
35. Be photographed next to 50 landmarks<br />
36. Create scrap memory albums<br />
37. Swim with a dolphin<br />
38. Really surf<br />
39. Write a Kid’s book <br />
40. Own my own business<br />
41. Start a Burning Man Camp<br />
42. Make an original music album with Alex<br />
43. Host a formal dinner party for 8 min no more than 12<br />
44. Find a volunteer project to work with<br />
45. Flip a home<br />
46. Take one photo every day<br />
47. Cover someone’s car in post it notes<br />
48. Write a letter to myself and read it in 10 years<br />
49. Own my own income property<br />
50. Learn how to use chopsticks<br />
51. Go to the airport and take a random flight<br />
52. Make a LED Light project<br />
53. Experience Zero Gravity<br />
54. Say YES to everything for a whole day (with someone I trust)<br />
55. Learn how to pick a lock<br />
56. Try Flyboarding<br />
57. Visit a haunted a house<br />
58. Learn about wine <br />
59. Go on a food adventure<br />
60. Learn how to code (HTML)<br />
61. Para-sailing<br />
62. Become a Marketo expert<br />
63. Become a Salesforce expert<br />
64. Create my own art painting<br />
65. Play Bossaball<br />
66. Attend a murder mystery dinner<br />
67. Run a half marathon<br />
68. Kidnap and treat a friend to a surprise day<br />
69. Become a millionaire<br />
<br />
<br />
Travel<br />
1. Iceland<br />
2. India<br />
3. Egypt<br />
4. Greece<br />
5. Truly travel Argentina<br />
6. Tokyo<br />
7. Great wall china<br />
8. Machu Piccu<br />
9. Petra Jordan<br />
10. Eastern Europe<br />
11. Chichen Itza Mexico<br />
12. Tibet<br />
13. Russia<br />
14. Kentucky derby<br />
15. Tomatina – Spain last Wed of August in the town of Buñol, Valencia region<br />
16. Ireland<br />
17. Manus - brazil<br />
18. All continents<br />
19. Israel<br />
20. See world wonders natural n man made.<br />
21. Marty Gras New Orleans<br />
22. Carnival Rio/Bahia<br />
23. Grand canyon<br />
24. African Safari<br />
25. Bahamas<br />
26. Germany<br />
27. New England / Chicago<br />
28. Fuji<br />
29. Sol - Korea<br />
30. All State capitals<br />
31. Eat/Sleep in an under water restaurant. <br />
<br />
Would love to hear your thoughts on my updated list. For 2014, I am going to focus on:<br />
<br />
1. Iceland - Going on 2/9/14-2/17/14!!!!<br />
2. African Safari - wishful goal!<br />
3. Create scrap memory albums - organized needs to be created<br />
4. Write a Kid’s book - have the idea, step one!<br />
5. Own my own business - have the idea, step one!<br />
6. Play pool well<br />
7. Fly kites for real<br />
8. Learn how to sew<br />
9. Fire dance<br />
10. Build a habitat for Humanity Home<br />
11. Learn Photoshop<br />
12. Make sushi<br />
13. Tango – really well<br />
14. Expert @ Wii fit<br />
15. Paragliding<br />
16. Cliff diving<br />
17. Northern lights - hopefully will be seen in our Iceland trip.<br />
18. Jet ski<br />
19. Para sail<br />
20. Cover someone’s car in post it notes<br />
21. Learn how to use chopsticks<br />
22. Go on a food adventure<br />
23. Become a Salesforce expert<br />
24. Create my own art painting<br />
25. Learn how to code (HTML)Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-12759953398101326102014-01-08T17:35:00.001-08:002014-02-03T09:50:54.785-08:004 years = 37 things accomplished<b>
When I created this blog, I hoped it would help keep my life interesting and on track.That it might make a different and open me up to new things... well I cannot tell you how true that has been. I have accomplished 37 things on my list and have started eight things, which is a total of 45 out of 100. Not bad for only 4 years. Let's check out the list that has been crossed fully off:</b><br />
<b><br /><s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></s><s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Skydiving</span></s><br /><s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></s><s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bungee > Learn how to drive
stick<br />
4. Meteor showers<br />
5. Snowboard<br />
9. Yoga<br />
15. Try Flying Trapeze<br />
16. Hot air balloon<br />
17. Dance in pouring rain<br />
18. Scuba<br />
19. Fire a gun<br />
22. Grow my own cooking herbs<br />
27. Drive a convertible<br />
29. Be in a flash mob<br />
35. 1st aid course CPR<br />
36. Roller disco</span></s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
<s>38. Create a UTube Vid<br />
39. Sell Dad’s bags<br />
64. Get my IMC Certificate aka manage 3 classes next term<br />
65. Get my MS of Marketing<br />
66. Get my PR certificate<br />
42. Make a difference in one person’s life<br />
44. Start a blog<br />
53. Send a msg in bottle<br />
54. River rafting<br />
55. LT camping more than 3 days<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">56. Opaque dinning<br />
</span>57. Burning Man<br />
60. Make my own jewelry</s></span><br />
<s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">61. Throw a huge party<br />
</span></s><s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><s><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">63. Find
my passion<br />
</span></s>68. Karaoke<br />
69. Visit a Renaissance fair</span></s><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><s><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">96.
Great beerier reef</span></s></span><br /><s><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">90. Vegas</span></s><br /><s><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
98. New Zealand</span></s><br /><s><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">99. Australia</span></span></s><br />
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-->Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-60545785452676121362014-01-05T00:29:00.000-08:002014-01-08T16:20:22.292-08:002013 AccomplishmentsLast year was a crazy hectic intense ride, and from talking to other people that sentiment seems to hold true for them too. So while I did a lot, and accomplished things that were not on my list, I did make a small dent on my actual list.<br />
<br />
If you remember, I started the year in Australia and went to the Great Beerier Reef to scuba dive and check out the coral reef. I swam with turtles, sharks, sting rays, and a ton of other fish. It was an amazing experience and great to start the year crossing off my list.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiajwqvqhfvQMwC_XGaXZx-Qa1D4mFA9IqLeJMtGFbHubJmMwW_EnW4n5kALsDB-0-ucjlAIJrb6yJvIiBI_lQoTHxEwrDfBpvhtCCizuWh1CXCs36ia5uSPulWHzZqTLSPv2plpOnR8/s1600/10.+fishies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiajwqvqhfvQMwC_XGaXZx-Qa1D4mFA9IqLeJMtGFbHubJmMwW_EnW4n5kALsDB-0-ucjlAIJrb6yJvIiBI_lQoTHxEwrDfBpvhtCCizuWh1CXCs36ia5uSPulWHzZqTLSPv2plpOnR8/s1600/10.+fishies.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I came home and started to learn how to drive stick. In the process, I was taught a bit more of a friends convertible. Thus twice I have driven one... I still want a nice crazy sunny day but I got that later while driving a Z4. In February was driving alone by myself, mostly due to adopting our cat Coco and being the only one who could pick her up in time. Coco while not on my list, has always been a life long dream to have a furry companion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YmWxXXykdKCCLXi1-FDZu_fNzvK6a9l818pMvhm1MMDg1dtll6WYlaSsYunv3SumV8_VrZIMFHOBxinpqbYglH28pTdMcAiklVtyYfNq4m9RKpZf-VJVoOaxNQjnmvMEAov28f4aIp8/s1600/coco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YmWxXXykdKCCLXi1-FDZu_fNzvK6a9l818pMvhm1MMDg1dtll6WYlaSsYunv3SumV8_VrZIMFHOBxinpqbYglH28pTdMcAiklVtyYfNq4m9RKpZf-VJVoOaxNQjnmvMEAov28f4aIp8/s1600/coco.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Alex and I went for a special night to Opaque Dinning and thought it was a rather interesting time trying to feel around in the dark. Having to memorize where everything was and being extra cautious with our movements. Trying to use utensils was a nightmare thought!<br />
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I also found my passion, or passions I should say. I realized that I will never just have one and actually it is not good to have one or two. Life needs passion to keep it interesting. So what are my passions? Some I am sure you can guess... my love, Burning Man to which I am going to start a camp, and snowboarding. I also realized that I do love planning events and special occasions (hint on my new side business idea), plus thoroughly enjoy marketing, social media, SEO, PR and integrating them together.<br />
<br />
I also started many of my goals on my list and while I have not finished them, they are in progress. These would be:<br />
<ul>
<li>Creating a scrapbook - I have compiled and organized all the mementos from my life. I realized that one giant book would not work. Thus I have separated out Burning Man, and considering keeping my recent trip separated too. </li>
<li>I have gotten more into Photoshop but still have a long way to go, which is the same for learning how to sew and play pool well.</li>
<li>I have started to write a kid's book and am talking with an artist friend to illustrate it.</li>
<li>I created a classic movie list and now have watch it. </li>
</ul>
Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-86272356488597348782013-09-20T15:16:00.000-07:002014-01-08T15:16:57.657-08:00Driving a Manual....After a few months.. I have to say I am kind of used to driving a manual. I bet now, if I had to drive automatic it would be a bit weird! I am not perfect, that will take time but I do have it down. Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-7787470560832321312013-09-15T12:28:00.002-07:002013-09-15T12:29:57.949-07:00Dinning in the DarkI know I have disappeared and I am sorry, I did not mean to but life just swept me up. Long story short, here I am back to crossing things off my list. This time my hunny took me on a dinning adventure, we <a href="http://sf.darkdining.com/" target="_blank">dined in the dark</a>. <br />
<br />
When you go down stairs you have to decide everything before entering the 'maze', which is pitch black. Our server, Mocha, was fantastic, she was funny, sweet, attentive, a good energy and great voice. Which helps since that is all you have in the dark. If you are wondering how she manages, in SF at least they are smart enough not to use night vision... but real people who are used to it.<br />
<br />
The food itself was good, a simple menu but is a variety of options, not what you'd expect for the price.. but the price is more for the experience. The experience is extremely interesting. You can choose to have surprise meals, in which you just know if it was seafood, meat, or vegetarian.<br />
<br />
I went for the surprise appetizer, which was fun to try and figure out what it was and did it again for my drink. It was a bit nerve racking to not know what you were about to eat at all. Your brain is in overdrive already because you cannot see and trying do things right. Trying to guess your food too... hard! I got a few of the ingredients right, did better on the drink. Not that I drink a lot, but Raspberry Stoli has a specific taste. <br />
<br />
Eating is what I found to be most difficult. I could not get the food on my fork! Not to mention try cutting it correctly or in the right size. It was ridiculous! That was a good part of the fun though. All in all, a truly interesting experience. Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-88439786239365937752013-05-17T15:10:00.001-07:002013-05-17T15:10:24.038-07:00DIY damage free Modrian backdrop<p dir=ltr>I love to decorate and am a huge fan of color, but getting paint up on the walls is impossible. Heck he prefer nothing that could cause damage in any sense. This caused a minor set back for me until genius struck. <br>
Painters tape is designed so there's no damage. I went to the dollar store abd got card board and black electrical tape, then went home to start the project. <br>
It was easy tape the white boards up on the wall, cut the color ones (I choose red, yellow and blue for Modrian). Then follow the lines of the boards with black electrical tape. It makes a stunning, funky and cheap (under $25) wall background. </p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJqAhPhnsZaCV8L1qZ7bk8ntQUVyLE8mpUThYYx-eXVauZHRk5belyra5O4bdzo4w7ivap2bwpTkeBjgJfopwgEUERYYcBzOK6ga9gPx85xH5ob2mgluQqdT73qLqaCr997eKUdI0K38/s1600/20130512_141558.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJqAhPhnsZaCV8L1qZ7bk8ntQUVyLE8mpUThYYx-eXVauZHRk5belyra5O4bdzo4w7ivap2bwpTkeBjgJfopwgEUERYYcBzOK6ga9gPx85xH5ob2mgluQqdT73qLqaCr997eKUdI0K38/s640/20130512_141558.jpg' /> </a> </div><div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJFJ9QTknzLptfanfQRTveTmkZairQz9r3Rdie7Z86lqumLLIGkCzh3R_6bf9lWF-hpQJbffzSTJQbbquav05PQt0727vQGpJJAjsrNz4nyVxtzQKn7uWFJaKpjT8NL0YfciJobxu03s/s1600/20130512_144534.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJFJ9QTknzLptfanfQRTveTmkZairQz9r3Rdie7Z86lqumLLIGkCzh3R_6bf9lWF-hpQJbffzSTJQbbquav05PQt0727vQGpJJAjsrNz4nyVxtzQKn7uWFJaKpjT8NL0YfciJobxu03s/s640/20130512_144534.jpg' /> </a> </div>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-55532115483681851342013-05-13T17:49:00.003-07:002013-05-13T17:50:36.001-07:00Australia: Cairns, Darwin & Adelaide <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Getting to Cairns was simple once I got through the ticket gate... though that took a long time; check out the line below. </div>
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<img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7pXqKhqQBxoPbKNP6beLrirNTplVGQvh9_yc_MYx053QweLeAQl117Slu3tnTTddrwN7wXcn9tkrgenzpERkTfnR59iTaSuXnr-bO3sJA2L2wEfMhCqvryzlPcyz9Xgrmr_tSf_HHVk/s320/1.+airport+line.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
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The plane arrived way late, but I went exploring quickly in search of food and discovered a quaint though extremely touristy town. Every which way you went, there were restaurants mixed with shops; real to just souvenir. Below are the highlights of the town, since let's be real you go here to dive or snorkel. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlU4H_YgmbhSfA2AJnc97sgnspwijwVEve752dRBYxTdIQv30tUASk866YqfuTH0A0gSVi5aEEyd2UYSGDAlXm-dKSdtzAgPnZAIveiQM6nGmgmG7Uw4bDEwCA2tBYqtE9derwCS_vYk/s1600/2.+town.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlU4H_YgmbhSfA2AJnc97sgnspwijwVEve752dRBYxTdIQv30tUASk866YqfuTH0A0gSVi5aEEyd2UYSGDAlXm-dKSdtzAgPnZAIveiQM6nGmgmG7Uw4bDEwCA2tBYqtE9derwCS_vYk/s320/2.+town.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIJBTiEvQyfBAAaTodZU8DBgeGB6H0Q1ZDo7VJ5PJxYf-Mc5kYmTmxR2pKAShm5VX97BQEqhhxNESjtWP86eKv335CJc_1QwOnGnHYrq3ztRpW2Y7LvCUulDm2n4bg5w8forXsX0wbqE/s1600/4.+sculpture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIJBTiEvQyfBAAaTodZU8DBgeGB6H0Q1ZDo7VJ5PJxYf-Mc5kYmTmxR2pKAShm5VX97BQEqhhxNESjtWP86eKv335CJc_1QwOnGnHYrq3ztRpW2Y7LvCUulDm2n4bg5w8forXsX0wbqE/s320/4.+sculpture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82Ls8ZGNPxnpwir5FncU2_UsAuipfVvxYP64eTgyv89qnI-pz-NphDmGnw543e2jvGuFxuS6SuHv6-foGKPpZXOMlCTat4vxhAz3s9l0pYcXDe6ecr0O3n338zTrO5D42kvY60ECbOcU/s1600/3.+water+park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82Ls8ZGNPxnpwir5FncU2_UsAuipfVvxYP64eTgyv89qnI-pz-NphDmGnw543e2jvGuFxuS6SuHv6-foGKPpZXOMlCTat4vxhAz3s9l0pYcXDe6ecr0O3n338zTrO5D42kvY60ECbOcU/s320/3.+water+park.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The next day, I was picked up very early and was ready, bright eyed and anxious. After a quick stop to double check our rentals and finish paying up, I had joined the group and everyone was on board. Luckily, it was a stunning but winding thus choppy day, regardless everyone enjoyed the boat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7e8bLERIo0AGxmNLTzG-9HBlI6heaG6bDMBikTWFy8Ty8ldI0XcqxEVlbxY0C-AJrVO7uGpGHbhg5OYZSnQs0emt3KANwevIxhCibs5FK13fLPxwJCmb5833AatIv2JqiBYEWFQMyWns/s1600/5.+sailing+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7e8bLERIo0AGxmNLTzG-9HBlI6heaG6bDMBikTWFy8Ty8ldI0XcqxEVlbxY0C-AJrVO7uGpGHbhg5OYZSnQs0emt3KANwevIxhCibs5FK13fLPxwJCmb5833AatIv2JqiBYEWFQMyWns/s320/5.+sailing+out.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyM9yEy9A-n_v_vwNPzNRKGRYOr6hygLLP-7m8kZPcUT6MnfqhKu7r7AAW5MEpYdOw43l4wcjWpFZrDpHAZLBXpDecoSWkvDa_eJa0PtWjIF2LFGboMV79tyxB7Q6vd-IKXhkbNrsal_E/s1600/7,+lounging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyM9yEy9A-n_v_vwNPzNRKGRYOr6hygLLP-7m8kZPcUT6MnfqhKu7r7AAW5MEpYdOw43l4wcjWpFZrDpHAZLBXpDecoSWkvDa_eJa0PtWjIF2LFGboMV79tyxB7Q6vd-IKXhkbNrsal_E/s320/7,+lounging.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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On a sunny day, this is not hard to do. Even myself who loves over 103 degrees, enjoyed the water spray and a bit of wind. Plus the accommodations were OK. The room small but sufficient, and the decks were the same. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtxgaAHomAH6Tzmn7a2WZIA6XeMjCHu0O-9u-bF0HL-YRB0y-gNblAO65f8pg6fh-5yGXXLPPtahEI8RdaJ6Cc-ocQNoWZz1qdkNQDlFySDGPxPfRG41wSB7efM7fx_sQGEdCNXSxPUw/s1600/8.+my+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtxgaAHomAH6Tzmn7a2WZIA6XeMjCHu0O-9u-bF0HL-YRB0y-gNblAO65f8pg6fh-5yGXXLPPtahEI8RdaJ6Cc-ocQNoWZz1qdkNQDlFySDGPxPfRG41wSB7efM7fx_sQGEdCNXSxPUw/s320/8.+my+room.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSm3gq4Q2rrTTio5nraVFP8wT7k8kvLZ369Q2Oz3kpLyPr7quqi8jfH2eInr8nmVP8jAK5vO7Ef5MUXMliSxCyl29A2TWVKh_L6CR_eovkz8p_wo_QUItjefdc3sSwkrJBpjEPKZHIPY/s1600/9.+deck.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSm3gq4Q2rrTTio5nraVFP8wT7k8kvLZ369Q2Oz3kpLyPr7quqi8jfH2eInr8nmVP8jAK5vO7Ef5MUXMliSxCyl29A2TWVKh_L6CR_eovkz8p_wo_QUItjefdc3sSwkrJBpjEPKZHIPY/s320/9.+deck.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was on the boat for three days and two nights, the food - what I could eat - was good. Really it was all about diving. Sadly, neither the camera I bought or the one I rented from the boat worked well! This bummed me out but... here are the pictures:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWMs8pWfSe47hXXKdyjR_6VhOcAH2P7pgwk_LUVDZ7rGCDDZSnwgW3iJUA1F1wsd7lZYvlVufTJ-4sSHywFPAwFTfo499e6-bRdWP6pfzMHa1HSexR4R8IyCNx16zuivzcD1rDsHezMM/s1600/10.+fishies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWMs8pWfSe47hXXKdyjR_6VhOcAH2P7pgwk_LUVDZ7rGCDDZSnwgW3iJUA1F1wsd7lZYvlVufTJ-4sSHywFPAwFTfo499e6-bRdWP6pfzMHa1HSexR4R8IyCNx16zuivzcD1rDsHezMM/s320/10.+fishies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMu7MoxMzZZo6WTNob7dhmCUMqEg6B5bIRESJHg057j45SABsntcAGiuUq43ukO7TTpP8n5EaizCwMgVnZzeRgm1KQEMZqrb1YO1GVyUYxKdR1jhxceO1VFi8ILQWuwFbz_RuQUp0aT8Q/s1600/11.+clear+fish+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMu7MoxMzZZo6WTNob7dhmCUMqEg6B5bIRESJHg057j45SABsntcAGiuUq43ukO7TTpP8n5EaizCwMgVnZzeRgm1KQEMZqrb1YO1GVyUYxKdR1jhxceO1VFi8ILQWuwFbz_RuQUp0aT8Q/s320/11.+clear+fish+picture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGUxDzWNAuPprujoQuXQRaLySbayg3StJExQG_t_UbXtOA6EfSKdYYM2HlkvKhybGcN1FxecyTedEEvxUtUuIYRkNk-BdDX7MINeUNHjsLg1-frS-3jSa-3m-vRAlICSXX8cjWwEz1wOc/s1600/13.+nemo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGUxDzWNAuPprujoQuXQRaLySbayg3StJExQG_t_UbXtOA6EfSKdYYM2HlkvKhybGcN1FxecyTedEEvxUtUuIYRkNk-BdDX7MINeUNHjsLg1-frS-3jSa-3m-vRAlICSXX8cjWwEz1wOc/s320/13.+nemo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmSt58PikpqYGXbI1Pp-RJ5EphMvcsi6F38SnIoAe50pw0Kd74LChv40j0NLwzO90tyGRgodyD7KVDRL-77R7D-6rRTRBBLFhH9AkdWci7i-q3xXwgj5-0RjqRFk1KnpOF-4eQ9hlQlg/s1600/14.+shark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmSt58PikpqYGXbI1Pp-RJ5EphMvcsi6F38SnIoAe50pw0Kd74LChv40j0NLwzO90tyGRgodyD7KVDRL-77R7D-6rRTRBBLFhH9AkdWci7i-q3xXwgj5-0RjqRFk1KnpOF-4eQ9hlQlg/s320/14.+shark.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eHrbiNd_TwyXor1Btvyt0qMWOfY8X1rFYO7DrSVLgWAfBfJWluwmFEi18n-7agPFXjyMmstCyUbGveagEZUcJS5vu9BN-YheZRc1U1WqIIG94dUTKZppO4LrYHAoiMogzmywKxjHV1M/s1600/15.coral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eHrbiNd_TwyXor1Btvyt0qMWOfY8X1rFYO7DrSVLgWAfBfJWluwmFEi18n-7agPFXjyMmstCyUbGveagEZUcJS5vu9BN-YheZRc1U1WqIIG94dUTKZppO4LrYHAoiMogzmywKxjHV1M/s320/15.coral.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQInvu7J4yAJI04fhjSmk6b-QRp8EDqTcGnc7fYcCYmKhd4XJk9z4bWOd4kvVjPPDFUl0PgenTXlXrDmSjXQkeROLBP3ASvMhW0x-dMpZQw8MfwHw3oPARdjgKN-4SvhotM35LlcCQ8V4/s1600/16.+coral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQInvu7J4yAJI04fhjSmk6b-QRp8EDqTcGnc7fYcCYmKhd4XJk9z4bWOd4kvVjPPDFUl0PgenTXlXrDmSjXQkeROLBP3ASvMhW0x-dMpZQw8MfwHw3oPARdjgKN-4SvhotM35LlcCQ8V4/s320/16.+coral.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I did see more, like sharks, turtles and a whole lot of other fish but again the cameras. Then it was back to main land, a random wandering and hanging with some people from the hostel. The next morning, I flew out to Darwin and arrived in the early afternoon. Perfect to explore a bit before my tour the next day. Sadly since my camera died in Cairns and my phone was not functioning well in Darwin's humility I did not get many photos. Luckily on my tour, I met a fun, warmhearted, easy going Aussie to hang with amongst a small group. He was happy to help share some photos and even braved holding the snake below! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNYH3NcizqFdfl0aixR54B5nebIkRiefU5ch67c3vkOJhUxwYim0zqGzrspilEW-BK6idkqwG47gUc5P9JIquImCeXI5LACJIik8lyi81RUKqL4D0MHFiNjmST-9RNfAveOToazB39us/s1600/mark+guide+snake.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNYH3NcizqFdfl0aixR54B5nebIkRiefU5ch67c3vkOJhUxwYim0zqGzrspilEW-BK6idkqwG47gUc5P9JIquImCeXI5LACJIik8lyi81RUKqL4D0MHFiNjmST-9RNfAveOToazB39us/s320/mark+guide+snake.jpg" width="320" /> </a><br />
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Since I do not have photos I found some on the web at: <a class="irc_itl" data-ved="0CAcQjB0wADgK" href="http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Australia_and_Oceania/Australia/Northern_Territory/Darwin-1877297/Things_To_Do-Darwin-Jumping_Croc_Cruise-BR-1.html" id="irc_hol"><span id="irc_ho">www.virtualtourist.com</span></a> and <span class="irc_iis" id="irc_hd"><a class="irc_itl" data-ved="0CAcQjB0wAA" href="http://travelerfolio.com/jumping-crocodile-cruise/" id="irc_hol"><span id="irc_ho">travelerfolio.com.</span></a></span></div>
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These photos show the jumping crocodiles and the hawks that also come to feed on the scraps. </div>
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<span class="irc_iis" id="irc_hd"><span id="irc_dim"></span></span><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2pPnDNEMe1ylQuESqqZlpvTNacjc87-kpsjwXtp-XBqgw2_HhyphenhyphenXkwS0rJEfJ3PoETER-2eKQDaZ9ZFMuBXMTjWjXuOMZewPawcOzsuYmkilj5nFr7QuCnthyh4_dxJz9NWhrnMcW7NbY/s320/jump.jpg" width="320" /></div>
Then the tour moved on to the waterfalls and after lunch I found a nice warm rock to perch on for some well deserved R&R. Below are some of the photos:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvowBtsnhdvcObwckp8lCkRxeaHoPVMrxwG51vYj58TTVxMBrj3ye4HjxvT12YU5WDAaZyxpl26n-B71uLOy6IMBNdV3LvZ7YtNhDMfu53Z1ZibaFi7z8Ig7FmHj1MjJloJO7Ah889PyI/s1600/lounge+in+the+river.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvowBtsnhdvcObwckp8lCkRxeaHoPVMrxwG51vYj58TTVxMBrj3ye4HjxvT12YU5WDAaZyxpl26n-B71uLOy6IMBNdV3LvZ7YtNhDMfu53Z1ZibaFi7z8Ig7FmHj1MjJloJO7Ah889PyI/s320/lounge+in+the+river.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The next day was kind of a wash but Mr.M from the tour the day before saved the day. We just chilled hung out by the pool then got some food. Afterwards I flew to Adelaide where it was drizzling the whole time. Found out that city was very sleep and was very thankful to a friend online Ms. M. I played chauffeur for her and drove her to work, enjoyed the car while she was at work then picked her up and we went to a party when I played DD. Having a car to drive around Barossa Valley and enjoy wine country was amazing, I got to do some tasting and eat lunch at the famous Maggie Beers. A perfect ending to a crazy trip. <br />
<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-15024846087923898022013-04-08T00:11:00.001-07:002013-04-08T00:16:20.756-07:00RIP Michael H.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I meet Mike at first via email, with questions about my upcoming NYE party. He was looking for a reasonable party alternative and I was throwing one. By the time he got the the party, it we busy and I was crazy. </div>
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Once the party developed a good flow, we were able to connect and chat. After that we clicked and connected afterwards for dinners and to go to other events. Mike always lived life to the fullest and had some amazing occasion or event up his sleeve to go to. He would get behind a good cause or there when a friend needed him.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTS7lKOrviIGGblQ6ycBhWOTDNiHPzFN0EaqcLKaUy1h0ZOv03VpJYsi4cctGORiZXY9o6ZERZpWMXYHOvIIoMeV1Jt3a17oSHgonO810R7lT-UXm765qcoLwQsyuwyd7Y7jpz15OeYE/s1600/mike+marathon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTS7lKOrviIGGblQ6ycBhWOTDNiHPzFN0EaqcLKaUy1h0ZOv03VpJYsi4cctGORiZXY9o6ZERZpWMXYHOvIIoMeV1Jt3a17oSHgonO810R7lT-UXm765qcoLwQsyuwyd7Y7jpz15OeYE/s320/mike+marathon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mike was the most generous, giving and warmhearted person I knew. So willing to pitch in, help and do what needed to be done for a friend or party. He just would open up his heart and house, letting people in and creating bonds between strangers. </div>
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By the time I found out he was sick, he was already having his 'I've gotten well "Kidney" party'. I was so happy to know he gotten well because I was just getting to know this fun loving, laid back, guy. Luckily, there we a bit more time for us to hang, go out and enjoy life; this is what Mike was best at... enjoying life. I have to thank him for the impromptu random events we would attend, that were 'guest listed' with comp food and bar... specifically the Ferrari one.</div>
<img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPxefQvuDnjqhYE_2ACH0OmTb2r9nqpgZoBAKa_ui6CCgkDMRE49_DAed-SND280gIuJW03255ci_Tod4MU8HDrgN9Av3UU8UqV1y6lCqyLLW39w-7rWg5XNQY0Vk5AiGPmtLakG5rUY/s320/mike+fundo.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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When I was struggling to find an event space to have my birthday, Mike generously offered and helped me host a fabulous party. One of the best nights I have had in SF and all thanks to being with a good friend. </div>
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Time passed and we hung out once more, but then before I knew it I heard the bad news that had passed away. Shock is all I felt and still do feel. I just cannot believe the world took away someone so young and who was well onto his second chance. The world has lost an amazing soul, a hard worker, with a heart of gold. RIP Michael H.</div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-11050831596077269602013-04-01T14:13:00.001-07:002013-04-02T08:51:07.443-07:00Australia: MelbourneI arrived to Melbourne quiet late and promptly went to bed so I could enjoy a fully enjoy tomorrow. Woke up rather early, probably because I was so excited to explore. My hostel was in a great location and within easy walking distance of lots of parks, which was perfect for me as a hang out spot. <br />
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My first day, I lucked out and woke up to sun and serious heat; I was in heaven! Since I started off early, I just tried to get lost and then would find my way back. This turned out to be a great plan as I stumbled across the park above and then ended after a good walk in the city center. The city had such incredible architecture and even had a familiar mode of transportation (below), a trolley!<br />
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It is the mixture of architectural styles is something I love to see when walking in the city. This church below stood out amongst all the modern architecture really shone. <br />
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Leaving me surrounded by gorgeous buildings and right by the Contemporary Art Museum. Unlike in the States, the museums are free with the exception of special exhibits. <br />
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Right outside the museum there was a huge interactive art piece that you could walk in (above) and around (below). </div>
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Wandering around the museum was a dream, it was very elegantly laid out.
There was an incredible aboriginal art exhibit, some examples shown in the next three photos below.<br />
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The paintings were massive, filled with patterns, lines and designs. Or lots of mini dots in an intricate pattern.</div>
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What really "Wowed" me were the colors and how vibrant the paints were. </div>
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I felt this way throughout the museum and stumbled upon an exhibit about modern media, rock and urban street culture. One of the showcases of was a couple walls of urban T-shirt designs (below), which had a wicked sense of humor and twist of satire to them. I blew up the picture so you had a chance to really see them yourself. <br />
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I spent a good bit of time slowly wandering around here because each art exhibit had something to say or
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I loved seeing styles mixed and artist explore the boundaries within styles (above).</div>
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Often pieces were whimsical and could have multiple interpretations sculpture. I really enjoyed seeing the range of styles and even how artists would mix media and film into the same piece (below).<br />
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After spending a good bit of the day in the museum, almost two hours which is easily the longest I have spent in one for a long time. I had to get back out into the amazing sun and enjoy the warm day. The museum is right on the square which really blew me away it was very modern! The city was lovely and walking around just felt so nice. </div>
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I found the mini "Eiffel Tower" in Melbourne (above) and wish I had a picture of it. Walking along the river was great and very scenic. The city skyline looked wonderful (below), people are out and about and there are a bunch of boats on the river too.<span id="taw" style="margin-right: 0;"><a class="spell" href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=3Xp&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=eiffel+tower&spell=1&sa=X&ei=OqtXUa_8F4GPiAKQi4DoBw&ved=0CDIQvwUoAA"></a></span><br />
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Starting to get hungry I worked my way into the city alleys and found myself in a food heaven(below). A couple of tiny alley ways that were filled tiny restaurants, food shops, cafes, and desserts. There was a great chocolate shop called Haight that really finished off my lunch. <br />
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Afterward, I just kept walking around the city constantly exploring. Found my way to some serious shopping, a few more galleries and managed to complete at least two laps of the city. Headed back to the hostel with a bit of food to cook completely astounded that it was past 9pm and felt like 3pm. The sun just would not go down! It was past 11pm when it finally started to look like the sun was setting and the dark was slowly creeping in.<br />
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So the next day since it was even hotter that the previous, I went to St. Kilda's beach. The train ride was easy and straight forward and dropped me off just two blocks from the beach. Just before the beach was one of the original Luna Parks (above). An amusement park just like any, nothing major but a nice small place boardwalk style. It was but the entrance that really took my breath away. <br />
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Once I reached the beach (above) I was in heaven! The sand was soft, the sun was high and hot! The water was calm and cool but warm. Best of all, it was quiet and relaxing! No where near as crowded as the beaches in Sydney, I spent twice as long as I meant to here but that's OK. When you are in a city that the sun never goes down, it is easy to loose track of time.<br />
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It was when I started to get hungry that I realized how long I had been there and took the train back to the city. Continued to wander around and enjoy the city, including a very modern, playful and funky building below.<br />
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I had to crash early since the next day I had a tour schedule of the...<br />
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Normally I do not like tours but I have to see all the famous great beaches. I got to go "Bell's Beach" (below) where all the famous surfers go and a lot of competitions are held. Sadly we did not get to spend much time here, especially since the beach was empty and waiting for us to take it over.<br />
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I couldn't help but run down to the beach, into the water and try to enjoy myself. I am a sucker for an empty beach. Then the tour moved on and really drove by so many good stops. Often just stopping for a moment for us to take a picture (BOO!). Regardless the whole coast was just stunning and the color of the ocean so blue (below right).<br />
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The tour of the coast also took us through the eucalyptus trees to see koalas in the natural wildlife. This sounds more exciting than it is, they are big lazy creatures that mostly stay and lounge in trees. It is actually hard to spot them at first since they are brown and blend into the tress. Some of my best shots of the cuties are below.<br />
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Kinda looks like someone left a stuffed animal up in a tree right? Afterwards, we drove on to get lunch at the lighthouse (below). Which was nice because we actually were able to stop for a bit. <br />
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Our lunch was good, simple fare but rather delicious... though when it is so hot and you started so early anything would taste great. While everyone was melting, I was sun tanning and loving the fact that it was over 100 degrees.</div>
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Yet the moment you entered into the lighthouse, the temperature dropped dramatically by 30 degrees or more. It was so cool I got goose bumps and hurried through it. Naturally I went to the top, and then peeked into where the light rotates (above). It looks like a fun house up there!<br />
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I really liked the view from the window portal (above) and the view of the coast line (below). <br />
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Then after a good stint, the longest break we had (and in kinda the most boring places of our stops)...we were back on the road and driving quickly to make up time. Before I knew it we were pulling up into the Gorge and it was breathtaking! <br />
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Thankfully, we were allowed to take a real stop here and the view really was something else (above). Having to take two shots, one far to show off the cliffs (above left) and one closer to show the beach and the gradual color change of the water (above right). </div>
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I ran down the stairs on the cliff to the beautiful water below. The
sand was scorching and one hand to run from shade to shade to make it to
the wet sand and into the water (above). I was thrilled to be able to enjoy 40 minutes of swimming, floating and relaxing in this clear chilled blue water. Then it was back in the van and on to the next stop, the highlight of the trip; the 12 Apostles, sign below.<br />
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Walking into the park it was so warm and there was not a hint of wind. It was not until you got out to the cliffs that the gusts would try to knock a person over and sent my hair flying out of control (below). It was a struggle to walk out there, to hold the camera steady or anything! <br />
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The apostles were stunning and just one of the best things I saw on the trip, see the two photos below:<br />
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I got home around 10, got food and rest because the next day I was flying out. Since I was not getting picked up to go to the airport until 1pm. I took off in the morning to do the last bit of exploration. Checked out the hippy funky neighborhood below and go hunting for street graffiti art; something Melbourne is famous for. See my favorite photos below.<br />
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Then, it was in the shuttle and off Cairns the "Great Barrier Reef".</div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com1Melbourne VIC, Australia-37.814107 144.96327999999994-38.6164545 143.67238649999993 -37.0117595 146.25417349999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-1919726464105060392013-03-16T23:44:00.000-07:002013-03-20T12:11:09.875-07:00Australia: Sydney<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Luckily after such a long flight to get across the world, flying from Christchurch to Sydney, did not seem bad at all. Unfortunately I was delayed a good bit, which was not good because I had plans to meet a friend that night! Not hard to guess, I was stressing a bit. Thus I ran the whole way, checked in, dropped my stuff and then turn and ran out the door with hardly a clue where I was staying or going. Made it to my destination and lucky for me, my friend Mr. S was there with friends waiting. We went out to get food, ended up in a restaurant with a menu as long as a mile and had a great meal. Then spent some time wandering around the harbor, looking at Sydney at night decked out for the holidays and chatting. As I crashed, since it was a very long day, I couldn't help but think it was a great first night.</div>
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The next day I set out and started to just walk around to get my bearings. The church and park above was not only a landmark, it also was a great place to break (OK siesta), lounge in the sun, or read a book. Sydney is easy to navigate but includes a bit of walking, and when you are carrying a heavy bag; it helps to have a rest spot. </div>
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I reached out to a friend of the family Ms. K (in the middle above) and she included me in her girls night out! We had so much fun bouncing from bar to bar, hitting the dance floor and chatting up locals. Her whole crew was just as open and friendly as she was and made me feel very welcomed.</div>
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The next day, it was crazy hot... just like I like it. Naturally, I decided to hit the beach. Bondi Beach that is. I had a lovely time just lounging around and popping into the ocean. I met some cool people to hang out with for the day and then headed back. Wandered around but really spend the majority of the day baking at the beach. Let me tell you, it was a perfect day!</div>
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Woke up early to go on the free tour, and they took us around a lot of the sites. Again I was with a heavy backpack and after an hour of half of walking my dogs started to get tired. I had already seen most of the sights they were showing me except for the full Rocks and tunnel below.</div>
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I started to hang at the back of the group and make a friend. We both were enjoying the tour but it was long, over three hours. While the history was interesting, it was not enthralling and as much as we liked and were engaged with our tour guide; our feet were complaining to much and we decided ditch. </div>
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On route to find the other less famous and only 10 ft shorter revolving tower and restaurant we knew were were on the right track via the sculpture above. Yes, sometimes I actually have a great idea and want the photo to be shot.</div>
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Shortly after, we took a long elevator ride up and sat down before the happy hour rush and had a nice drink as the restaurant slowly turned to show of the city skyline. I really enjoyed the company of my new found friend Ms. M. Below are some of my favorite shots.<br />
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After while a few of Ms.M's friends joined us and we started to walk around in search of food. We also stumbled into a funky light art installation in an alley way below.<br />
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We went all the way to one side of the city to find our destination closed, then went back to the other side and found a great brewery restaurant. By that time we were starving and everyone ate well. Decided not to go out with Ms.M's crew to rest for NYE. I got to relax at the hostel for a bit and then got dragged along to a pub crawl with my hostel.<br />
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We bounced around a bit and then ended up in Scruffy's, which had a sports pub up top and two dance floors below. It ended up being a killer night filled with dancing and new friends (below).<br />
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The next night I managed to sleep in, OK so I was up and out of the hostel by 10:30, but considering I was out before 9. This was luxury. I decided to keep on that track and walk to the Quay, get food and then catch the ferry.</div>
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Sydney from water is something everyone should see, and from the number of boats out; many people do. It was great to be able to take better shots of the skyline (above) and of course, the famous Opera House (below). </div>
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Then a short walk, through a nice shopping strip to Manly Beach! Yes, Manly and from the number of surfers you could tell testosterone ran a bit higher on this beach. Yet unlike Bondi Beach, there were a bit less people. </div>
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I guess the ferry deterred them? Who knows, for myself I parked it in the early afternoon. Had fruits, water and a good book to keep me occupied. For those who know me, I am a busy bee type of person; but put me in a warm beach and I can lounge. Which is exactly what I did!</div>
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Was not until the sun was almost setting did I realize how quick the time passed. Luckily I was on the boat already and would be be able to get ready for NYE soon enough. Dressed in a snap, grabbed a few Mates from the hostel and off we ran.<br />
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First we got our wrist bands and a quick drink. Borrowed a friends headband for some flash and snapped a shot. See the tan I am was working on!<br />
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The streets are madness and overcrowded. Making our way to find a viewing spot was intense. Happily everyone was well mannered and no fights broke out, some parts of the crowd looked hairy for a moment.</div>
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Then we went to stake our spot to view the fireworks and lucked out as someone gave us extra passes into the spot they were headed to. Meaning we got a perfect view of Darling Harbour! All the boats in the bay were lite up like they were on the Playa of Burning Man. The shot above does not show it but they choose a kiss or set of lips as the NYE emblem. Fireworks went off in all directions, from the bridge, hotels on the side and behind us, the boats, Opera House... EVERYWHERE. It lasted about 20 minuets. If you want to watch see the full thing below:<br />
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After it was back to Jackson on the George, and a night full of dancing, laughing and sharing good times with random strangers. We got back to the hotel around 5:30 am and sadly I could not crash well. I had to check out the next day by 10. Bleh!<br />
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Being half pack but not really, and with a fresh load of clothes done the night before (somehow managed before NYE), I had to completely reorganized. Wanting to be nice to my dorm room, I made trips and did it in the lounge so I did not wake anyone. Oddly, I had two travelers watching me pack with the jaws dropping ever moment with how much stuff I could take in how little bags. My secret? Spacebags! Kneeling on them works just as well.<br />
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Afterwards, one of the astounded travelers decided to join me on a quick museum run since I had half a day to kill before my flight. We went to the Contemporary Art Museum and saw some incredible pieces of art, see for yourself below.<br />
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The sculpture roof top garden with a view of an huge cruise boat behind it is above and a multidimensional piece is below.<br />
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I thought the flashing arrow below was too cute of a picture to pass up, even if the cement was ridiculously hot.<br />
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We grabbed lunch to go and walked through the Botanical Gardens (below) to eat, nap/read and relax.<br />
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After I had a flight to catch and was picked up by the shuttle. Once at the airport, there was confusion. Flight times had change, I was not notified, and a good bit of of running around thanks to Jetstar sending from domestic to international and back twice not knowing their flight schedules. Warning: Unlike most airports, their shuttle is not free it is like $5.50 each way! Can we say rip off? </div>
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Obviously Jetstar got me to my destination and did not loose my bags like Air New Zealand tended to. Yet it was a hiccup that ended a nice day and caused me to take an expensive taxi to my next hostel as there were no shuttles running. </div>
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Oh well, we got to roll with life's bumps right?</div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0Sydney NSW, Australia-33.8674869 151.20699020000006-34.712017900000006 149.91609670000005 -33.0229559 152.49788370000007tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-74876316461149537612013-03-07T22:11:00.001-08:002013-03-08T15:55:00.559-08:00Paper Re-Decorating<div dir="ltr">
Maybe you have the redecorating bug, but you're not allowed to paint. So here's what you do, use paper. You are probably thinking what! I'm serious, you can do almost anything you'd want to paint or tile with paper. My dream was a kitchen back splash, my issue nothing permanent. I was able to create the look and you can too, keep reading to learn how.</div>
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In this picture you will see some of the project and little pieces looking like tiles cut off. Since I decided to to do a back splash in another way, I went to the local art store and found a work around. Picked up the prettiest paper you've seen and start to make it happen. Since my idea is a backslash I had to imitate tiles I was dreaming of in my head.</div>
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I got different types of paper cut them into equal sized strips. I picked a range of blues to pull and compliment the blue accent wall and the gold and lighter brown to bring out the wood grains. Then I started to leave them together in a pattern pulling them tight. This created a place mat almost with some loose ends, which I cut to clean up the edges. </div>
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Then it was about getting tape and some thumb tacks and sticking it to the wall, trying to mix and match some of the paper strips. It also helped to take off the electrical light plug box and put it back on, over the paper. </div>
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This helped give the nice finish look, that from far one would never guess it was paper. </div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-29529246059345623342013-02-21T00:06:00.000-08:002013-02-21T00:07:07.280-08:00New Zealand Part 2: South Island<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Early morning Sat, after a night of parting, we boarded the ferry to Picton in the South Island at 7am.</div>
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It was an ugly cloudy early morning, which made it hard to wake up to. We got there rather early and staked out a good spot on the boat to hang out on the long ride.<br />
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The trip over was a bit long, so I had time for a nap and the fog which was really thick was coming out of the harbor to lifted as we got into the Marlborough Sounds. Which meant that the weather was starting to become sunny, something Ms. T (below) and myself was excited about.<br />
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From then on the sun was out and the view was amazingly stunning (see below) and the water was a memorizing blue.<br />
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Wandering the boat was kind of interesting, seeing how they organized the cars for maximum efficiency. Yet it is the Sounds that steals your heart and sweeps your breath away.<br />
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After what seemed to be never ending boat ride, we arrived. OK it was really 5 to 6 hours but still seemed awful considering how cramp it was. Once landed we then
we headed south, stopping at Kaikoura briefly to look at the beach.<br />
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The beach was nice but crowded and well it just didn't seem right, we wanted our own private beach and my guides knew where to get one.<br />
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It was a short 30 minute hike to "Bob's Beach". It was a lovely walk through the forest, a bit of hill but nothing major and completely worth it. <br />
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I was super excited to get to the beach on the first hot day I had in NZ. Much to my surprise, there was 'NO SAND!', this is not a beach. it was filled with rocks! ARG! Rocky shores are just that, they are not a nice relaxing beach which should be sandy!<br />
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The water though was so clear and it was very easy to see through but ridiculously cold.<br />
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Once we were done at the beach we drove on through mountains to coast lines, it was great to be able to see both almost in the same view. We would stop randomly for the view and another killer beach with Mt. Cook hiding in the fog behind me, see the photos below.<br />
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Then after a long day of driving, we were able to finished the evening in the hot thermal springs in Hanmer Springs (see below).<br />
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How nice it was to slip around from pool to pool of thermal, hot waters and chill relaxation. Something everyone sorely needed after a day of being crammed in a car. We stayed at Sheffield at Ms. S's (Ms.T's sister) house, in Canterbury. The next day we woke up early to head to Queens town, this meant another day of, you guessed it, driving! Luckily it was incredibly scenic, as the pictures below can illustrate.</div>
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The middle row are pictures while driving, there was a lot of driving involved. Yet it was a lot of fun to be hanging with Ms. T and Mr. B, plus they taught me how to drive stick. Everywhere we went it seemed like within the hour or before we were stopping to take a picture of an amazing view (see above). Had lunch on a giant compass. The water was incredibly blue and tints of green, in many ways the landscape felt surreal. Stopping at Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, which has really nice views of Mount Cook, the highest mountain in NZ (see below).<br />
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While driving to Queenstown we stumbled up a salmon farm and bought fresh fish for that night.<br />
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It was really interesting to feed the fish and watch them move around in the water. Plus get the best deal on the freshest fish ever, which made for a delicious dinner!Then we got to enjoy the cute ski lodge town that is Queenstown.<br />
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We were there for two night and went up to check out the view and walk around each night. On the walk to the skyline view there was a information stop about the kiwi bird (below), which I am sitting in. Once all the way up in hill the views are incredible. Ms. T and I went picture crazy while poor Mr.B just enjoyed the scenery (below).</div>
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After a bit there was only so much we could see and then went off to make dinner. It was an early night because on Christmas Day, we got up early
and drove 5 hours each way to Milford Sound, in Fiordland National Park. The drive was amazing and stunning the parts I saw, will be honest and say I napped a good bit of it since we left ridiculously early. We made great time and were able to take a bit of a walk around before we took a "cruise" (really just a boat ride) with Real Journeys out to the head of the Sounds.<br />
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The sounds are amazing and so breath taking! As you can see above, NZ if filled with amazing views, incredibly scenery every where you turn. Luckily the drive back I was wide awake and able to see everything I missed on the way in. We went to bed early because the next morning we had an adventure! White water rafting on the Shotover River!<br />
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After we finished our excursion we started driving back to Ms.S's house and stumbled into wine tasting. It was a 'remarkable' experience, OK bad pun on the name of the winery. Yet it was a great time and the tasting room manager was a hoot.<br />
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Then it was back on the road and more impressive scenery with the sun playing peek-a-boo and the clouds hiding the tops of the mountains. We even got to catch a rainbow among the mist!<br />
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We arrived back in Methven just before 9pm, hoped to eat at the Last Post but it was closed. So we went to the Blue pub instead and had some dinner. After we headed back to Sheffield and crashed. The next day was short, Ms. T and I went to the mall got our hair done and then dropped me off at the airport. Where I proceeded to wait five extra hours as the flight continuously got delayed.<br />
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A million thanks to Ms.T and her husband Mr. B for touring me around New Zealand, it was great to see them and an amazing trip. There are many more <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.572402116118875.150672.100000472761717&type=3" target="_blank">photos </a>but I only chose a selected few.Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-90440160209717212442013-01-22T02:16:00.001-08:002013-09-15T12:31:30.806-07:002013: 25 things to focus on New Year means new hopes and goals, it also is another 365 days in a calendar year to self with fun and adventure. I started
this blog wanting to encourage myself to pack more into my life. Time flies by quickly before you realize it the year passed to nothing. By quick count in 3 years I've accomplishing 30 things on my list. I need to step up the game a bit more and get more focused.<br />
<br />
I know I can do this and at the very least I aim to do one more than my average of 10, if not 5 more things! Thus my list for 2013 of things to do, the ones left uncompleted are moved to the top naturally. Note that the first one is crossed off because of my trip at the end of the year and start of the year to New Zealand and Australia. I had and did dive the reef on the 6th-8th of 2013, blog to come shortly. <br />
<br />
<br />
25 Things for 2013: <br />
<strike><i>1. </i></strike><i><strike>Great beerier reef - One of the greatest dives in the world</strike></i><strike><i> </i></strike><br />
<i>2. Create a scrapbook memory album - To remember my life.<br />
3. <strike>Bungee jumping</strike> seems lame after skydiving > Learn to drive stick - To help my hun if he ever tired or sick.</i><br />
<i>4.</i><i><i> Drive a convertible - Always wanted to, hopefully easier with my best friend owning one.</i>5. Learn Photoshop - It will help professionally.</i><br />
6. Learn how to sew - To make small modifications and save money.<br />
7. Expert the Wii Fit - I own it and should use it, right?<br />
8. Swing - It is fun and burns up energy.<br />
9. Opaque dinning - Why not try it?<br />
10. Fly kites for real - Enjoying a simple childhood moment.<br />
11. Play pool well - A game to enjoy for the rest of my life.<br />
12. Fire dance - A beautiful art form mixed with fire.<br />
13. Jet ski - Seems like fun.<br />
<i>
</i>14. Write a kid's book - Seems like an easy way to make an impact.<br />
15. Cliff diving - I am a risk taker and well why not!<br />
16. Find my passion - Entering the work force and needing my direction.<br />
17. Make sushi - Because I like it and want to eat it more frequently.<br />
18. Build a Habitat for Humanity home<br />
19. Paragliding<br />
20. Get into kick boxing more?<br />
21. Create a classic movie list and watch it - top 50<br />
22. Buy your own House<br />
23. Race a car<br />
24. African Safari<br />
25. Egypt<br />
<br />
There are a few things I wanted to add into this list that are on my 100 things, but it has to happen naturally. Lets leave the cosmos to have some say. As for the every day, I made this list below last year but it still stands, though is getting knocked down a rung to add a new #1. <br />
<br />
1. Improve my relationships - with my love and loved ones. <br />
2. Be healthier - with what I eat and making working out a priority.<br />
3. Be proactive - in my job search, networking and living my life.<br />
4. Seek balance - in my work/personal life, health, emotional and mental well being.<br />
5. Organize - my life, my house, keeping a schedule planner.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-49890039466263839942013-01-22T02:13:00.001-08:002013-01-22T10:22:13.240-08:002012 Year Review - AccomplishmentsA lot happened in 2013, I moved in with my boyfriend Mr.A in the start of March and then started a job that April. The move has been and still is a big adjustment, one I am trying to get used to. I am becoming healthier and succeeded in improving many habits including eating better. I have learned I have the will power to say no but once it is in the house... not so much. When I had a job, (have to look again) I was managing the work/life balance well but it always needs improvement. Though I need a good bit more work on being organized. Let's see how I did this year on my 25 things...<i> </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>1. Learn Photoshop - </i>It will help professionally and I have started to learn and play with it more. I just need to get better. <i><br />
</i><strike>2. 1st AID CPR course - To help save someones life maybe.</strike><br />
Had a great successful class and the dumb below even survived. <strike> </strike><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd6A_-mVWSQ/UMUYSbRuUzI/AAAAAAAABqc/pMytHN4ANoY/s1600/IMG_20121206_195315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd6A_-mVWSQ/UMUYSbRuUzI/AAAAAAAABqc/pMytHN4ANoY/s320/IMG_20121206_195315.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<strike>3. My retirement plan -Something for when I am old an unwilling to work.</strike><br />
<strike>
</strike>Started it, will keep adding to it and happy I am being responsible financially.<br />
<i>4. Create a scrapbook memory album - </i>I have organized but really need to do it! Next year...<i> </i><br />
<i>5. <strike>Bungee jumping</strike> seems lame after skydiving > Learn to drive stick - </i>I have really started to get the hang of this while in New Zealand. At least I feel more comfortable and hope to continue to learn how to drive while at home with my hun and for him. <br />
<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BURH5Jdd8DI/UP5fuG7i-GI/AAAAAAAACCw/MX5TbFMgAuE/s1600/n+river+raft.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
6. Learn how to sew - To make small modifications and save money.<br />
7. Expert the Wii Fit - I own it and should use it, right?<br />
8. Swing - It is fun and burns up energy.<br />
9. Opaque dinning - Why not try it?<br />
10. Fly kites for real - Enjoying a simple childhood moment.<br />
11. Play pool well - A game to enjoy for the rest of my life.<strike><br />
12. River rafting - For an exhilarating thrill.</strike><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BURH5Jdd8DI/UP5fuG7i-GI/AAAAAAAACCw/MX5TbFMgAuE/s1600/n+river+raft.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BURH5Jdd8DI/UP5fuG7i-GI/AAAAAAAACCw/MX5TbFMgAuE/s320/n+river+raft.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BURH5Jdd8DI/UP5fuG7i-GI/AAAAAAAACCw/MX5TbFMgAuE/s1600/n+river+raft.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
It was a lot of fun to raft with good friends. I was lucky to do this in Queenstown, NZ. Blog to come soon.<br />
<strike>13. Hot air balloon - To enjoy the sights from above with drinks, no loud engines or wind rushing by my ears.</strike><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H72LZpArFAM/UH5EcIAGZWI/AAAAAAAABpk/5sS6cf5FYow/s1600/DSC_0967.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H72LZpArFAM/UH5EcIAGZWI/AAAAAAAABpk/5sS6cf5FYow/s320/DSC_0967.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This was such a romantic and lovely way to end a weekend! <br />
<br />
14. Fire dance - A beautiful art form mixed with fire.<br />
15. Jet ski - Seems like fun.<br />
<i>16. Drive a convertible - Always wanted to, hopefully easier with my best friend owning one.<br /> </i>I technically did this but did not really get to drive more than 10 minuets and want a real drive.<br />
<br />
17. Write a kid's book - Seems like an easy way to make an impact.<br />
18. Cliff diving - I am a risk taker and well why not!<br />
<strike>19. Make my own jewelry - It would be great to wear something I made.</strike>Made a great pair of earrings I cannot wait to wear!<br />
<br />
20. Make sushi - Because I like it and want to eat it more frequently.<br />
21. Find my passion - Entering the work force and needing my direction.<br />
<strike>22. Scuba - To explore the underworld</strike><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQx-P5wIj9c/UNQZddL75iI/AAAAAAAABrI/v3bUYm8v7ro/s1600/DSCN0036.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQx-P5wIj9c/UNQZddL75iI/AAAAAAAABrI/v3bUYm8v7ro/s320/DSCN0036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
A rush to learn right before my trip down under, but very glad I did it!<br />
<br />
23. Great beerier reef - One of the greatest dives in the world - planned 1/5-8/13<br />
<strike>24. New Zealand - To visit friends and explore.<br />
25. Australia - To visit all the continents before I am 30.</strike><br />
<br />
A wonderful vacation which my parents helped me with (the flight to and fro), I got to see both these countries before the year ended.<br />
<br />
I saw a meteor shower or at least one major one crashing into our atmosphere! This was on my list but not on this years... so bonus!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a7YyjgI4kng/UP7YHstUjiI/AAAAAAAACEM/MynsyWY9IUQ/s1600/meteor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a7YyjgI4kng/UP7YHstUjiI/AAAAAAAACEM/MynsyWY9IUQ/s320/meteor.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Random one: Zorbing<br />
This was not but should have been on my list and one of the most fun things I have done to date. To see click below:<br />
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqk-O3s_KDY<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RyUvfb9KfT0/UNT2LE-JY1I/AAAAAAAABsM/F2RoeLfd89g/s1600/DSCN0280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RyUvfb9KfT0/UNT2LE-JY1I/AAAAAAAABsM/F2RoeLfd89g/s320/DSCN0280.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This year I accomplished 8 things completely (technically 9 with zorbing) and to my satisfaction, have 4 in progress or working on and one planned for the first week of the New Year! Overall feeling a bit happy with myself, know I can do more but got quiet a lot done! Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-33068014814256226782013-01-22T01:13:00.001-08:002013-01-23T13:36:04.457-08:00New Zealand Part 1 - North Island<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9G9PH034WMw/UPpCiNGyUdI/AAAAAAAAB18/qseH-sR5hCA/s1600/flying+over.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9G9PH034WMw/UPpCiNGyUdI/AAAAAAAAB18/qseH-sR5hCA/s320/flying+over.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div>
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Flying
over, after a delay in Honolulu, was long and seemingly unending with a
decent set of movies. I spent a good bit of time watching as we danced
with the rising sun. Leaving me to land very early on December 16th,
sadly my bag did not make it until two days later. Mental Note: Always
carry a bit of clothes with you on the carry on!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0pVtSIHp2lo/UPpD_4KvSpI/AAAAAAAAB4o/4OPLKpwHZ6A/s1600/auc+lunchh+1st+day.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0pVtSIHp2lo/UPpD_4KvSpI/AAAAAAAAB4o/4OPLKpwHZ6A/s200/auc+lunchh+1st+day.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X-j9sbGHxLA/UPpEAKpZAiI/AAAAAAAAB4g/fras-8WJ3u8/s1600/auck+1st+day+walk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X-j9sbGHxLA/UPpEAKpZAiI/AAAAAAAAB4g/fras-8WJ3u8/s200/auck+1st+day+walk.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Arriving
in Auckland at 7am on a Sunday is odd since the city is dead quiet. The
first thing I realized was the food was ridiculously expensive. Who
pays $16.50 for a spinach mushroom omelet?! Wow. I found a place to get a
few clothes to hold me over and then back to the hostel. After finding a
"reasonable" place to eat on the harbor with a view of some docked
boats (see above L). Then walking along the harbor and finding fun
architectures (above R).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X-j9sbGHxLA/UPpEAKpZAiI/AAAAAAAAB4g/fras-8WJ3u8/s1600/auck+1st+day+walk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ki2z7hZs5_Y/UPpEAENJx0I/AAAAAAAAB4k/JYen-QylXoE/s1600/auck+1st+day+walk1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ki2z7hZs5_Y/UPpEAENJx0I/AAAAAAAAB4k/JYen-QylXoE/s320/auck+1st+day+walk1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This
walk also included some fun and interactive street art (above) and a
huge lounging area. Auckland has a bit of personality. The day of
walking continued to the Sky Tower (see below) which has some amazing
360 degree view (see below). Don't worry I won't subject you to the
whole view.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ebhWn6aEYo/UPpEAUHSTJI/AAAAAAAAB4s/K2Tf7jX6DZk/s1600/auck+1st+day+walk2sky+view.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ebhWn6aEYo/UPpEAUHSTJI/AAAAAAAAB4s/K2Tf7jX6DZk/s320/auck+1st+day+walk2sky+view.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ogSVXizPCY8/UPpEBx4m4oI/AAAAAAAAB5c/1EIjnksidpU/s1600/sky+view.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ogSVXizPCY8/UPpEBx4m4oI/AAAAAAAAB5c/1EIjnksidpU/s320/sky+view.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This
put a cap to day one and the hostel was pretty chill and well situated
at Queen St and Fort St. This made it easy to find and get around. The
next day was a longer wander of the Auckland all the way out through the
Domain past a man made lake with ducks (see below) to the War Memorial <i>Museum. </i>The museum has a lot of history and Maori ancestry ( see below).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ozIaj2taf7pVDqHdCDyfc4Du4aC6m0IOlmmGHRqkpVYraT2hab5lYVdIecPb0UMrRfL5dwIaxHcKCzYXd_7g3O-xU2BEGk-o-XqfI8K8f2IcJ4c5IR86waIm8UtCmszlsa5RVkQIW8I/s1600/auck+domain.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ozIaj2taf7pVDqHdCDyfc4Du4aC6m0IOlmmGHRqkpVYraT2hab5lYVdIecPb0UMrRfL5dwIaxHcKCzYXd_7g3O-xU2BEGk-o-XqfI8K8f2IcJ4c5IR86waIm8UtCmszlsa5RVkQIW8I/s200/auck+domain.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCKzH3IIr44/UP41HQQCnCI/AAAAAAAAB8k/Dj3kgrY2XdU/s1600/auck+war.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCKzH3IIr44/UP41HQQCnCI/AAAAAAAAB8k/Dj3kgrY2XdU/s200/auck+war.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TGPIlYf9kmM/UP41HI6TfAI/AAAAAAAAB8o/RvBq-J9sz7E/s1600/auck+war1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TGPIlYf9kmM/UP41HI6TfAI/AAAAAAAAB8o/RvBq-J9sz7E/s200/auck+war1.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
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After
a long day of walking, it was finding or more making food and relaxing.
Then gathering a group from the hostel and going out for drinks and
dessert. Yet before you know it, you cannot sleep because you are
waiting for the next day, which comes before you know it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ta4pkSJ3oyc/UPpD_Z0ZTBI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/w9f9gyI7KTA/s1600/Auckland+Art+Contem..jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ta4pkSJ3oyc/UPpD_Z0ZTBI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/w9f9gyI7KTA/s200/Auckland+Art+Contem..jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-twJTT_bgpVc/UPpD_UaGfdI/AAAAAAAAB4U/PJZQtssMo1k/s1600/Auckland+Art+Contem.1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-twJTT_bgpVc/UPpD_UaGfdI/AAAAAAAAB4U/PJZQtssMo1k/s200/Auckland+Art+Contem.1.jpg" width="150" /> </a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bJZTLYFLI-o/UPpD_UM0xfI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/gBKi5GH8ZsI/s1600/Auckland+Art+Contem.2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bJZTLYFLI-o/UPpD_UM0xfI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/gBKi5GH8ZsI/s200/Auckland+Art+Contem.2.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Auckland
Contemporary Museum, has such great interactive art pieces. The three
above are my favorites. The whole morning was spent wandering slowly
through this incredible museum that I could jump into the art piece as
well! Then it was back to the hostel to meet up with people before the
next adventure.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Checking out the zoo! It was hard not to be busy when you only had a few
days to enjoy each place. It was fun seeing animals like monkeys,
kangaroos, emus and more. Lost my glasses in the Kiwi exposure,
basically a dark cave replicating night. Some animal were in more of
wilderness engagements and others were just in cages. It was very sad to
see the distinct difference.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N8msiIr1JFc/UPpEAvty4eI/AAAAAAAAB5A/kATz87TTDV8/s1600/auckzoo1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dSpGflYOIzU/UPpEAyj2iuI/AAAAAAAAB5E/PSdeGN92_gI/s1600/auckzoo3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dSpGflYOIzU/UPpEAyj2iuI/AAAAAAAAB5E/PSdeGN92_gI/s200/auckzoo3.jpg" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N8msiIr1JFc/UPpEAvty4eI/AAAAAAAAB5A/kATz87TTDV8/s1600/auckzoo1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N8msiIr1JFc/UPpEAvty4eI/AAAAAAAAB5A/kATz87TTDV8/s200/auckzoo1.jpg" width="200" /> </a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QbSDZlLKaqo/UPpEA5dU_0I/AAAAAAAAB5I/q8yMeMs7SN4/s1600/auckzoo2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QbSDZlLKaqo/UPpEA5dU_0I/AAAAAAAAB5I/q8yMeMs7SN4/s200/auckzoo2.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
After
Auckland I meant to drive the coast up north east and then down to
Rotorua. It was a lovely drive through rolling green hills. I stopped to
make sure my idea and directions were accurate. Sadly Murphy decided to
strike and when I was just south of Thames someone picked up car keys.
Yes you read right my keys, they did it by accident I am sure since they
left me the locked car. Thus I got stuck waiting for a good bit. <br />
<br />
Well,
after I got towed back to Auckland and got a new car because they had
to make a key... I drove straight south to Rotorua. This meant the day
was a wash and I spent a good bit of time driving in traffic to get to
my hostel. Made for a quiet night, where I made my own dinner then
crashed early.<br />
<img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fofQHBuVkY0/UPpC0wNaNEI/AAAAAAAAB2M/o2sxPTWLtdc/s200/giser.jpg" width="150" /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_NROBij3aw/UP5GWbjAOII/AAAAAAAAB-E/vO92xnLU4OU/s1600/sulfer+pool+me+cham.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_NROBij3aw/UP5GWbjAOII/AAAAAAAAB-E/vO92xnLU4OU/s200/sulfer+pool+me+cham.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1quPr_nq-NA/UPpC2Yq-xkI/AAAAAAAAB2w/zH1b4EnHV3c/s1600/sulfer+pool+3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1quPr_nq-NA/UPpC2Yq-xkI/AAAAAAAAB2w/zH1b4EnHV3c/s200/sulfer+pool+3.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
I
woke up early to go to the local sulfur pools and to see the natural
geyser (See above right). Ran into random people from the hostel and we
started walking through the pools together. Two of us stopped at the
champagne pools and marveled at the amazing colors. Even though the
sulfur brought a rotten egg smell with it, the natural pools were
stunning! After about an hour walk around the thermal pools; I decided
to fit in Zorbing and Luge! Below is (in order) a sulfur pool, the view
from the Zorb location and myself getting ready for one of two rides.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sIECRxTsvmE/UP5JX1msitI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/ssOiMHIJspk/s1600/zorb+drive.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sIECRxTsvmE/UP5JX1msitI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/ssOiMHIJspk/s200/zorb+drive.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Enm1EssVs64/UP5JX5hZDMI/AAAAAAAAB_g/tTarv9CESuk/s1600/zorb+route.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Enm1EssVs64/UP5JX5hZDMI/AAAAAAAAB_g/tTarv9CESuk/s200/zorb+route.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SxHya95aWPk/UP5JYM1HkwI/AAAAAAAAB_c/gwM-pqTLA0s/s1600/zorb.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SxHya95aWPk/UP5JYM1HkwI/AAAAAAAAB_c/gwM-pqTLA0s/s200/zorb.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
I
went to find zorbing! If you do not know what that is, basically it is
being in a giant plastic bubble within a bubble, with some water and
splashing around. Above is the women strapping said bubble onto the
truck to drive me up to the top. The middle picture is a close up of the
zorb and the right is the curvy track. To get a better understanding go
to the blog:
http://onlynatasha52weeks.blogspot.com/2012/12/zorbing.html or check
out the YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqk-O3s_KDY <br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Vdv3uFjlOs/UPpEds9SSzI/AAAAAAAAB6w/DYOXqa_yIZo/s1600/drive+r+on.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Vdv3uFjlOs/UPpEds9SSzI/AAAAAAAAB6w/DYOXqa_yIZo/s200/drive+r+on.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRp71slMqr4TZjKX1NevhwcYm3A6bInYUkJk7e_rXgaejuDvfEQJe22XJEymrToiBvg2YzWr5T_MV4yW1U9z3ptdvDC5hDmHoe3rKWeIjRIuRitx115_-H8L1IMV0h0BUKeywagalItJA/s1600/luge+me.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRp71slMqr4TZjKX1NevhwcYm3A6bInYUkJk7e_rXgaejuDvfEQJe22XJEymrToiBvg2YzWr5T_MV4yW1U9z3ptdvDC5hDmHoe3rKWeIjRIuRitx115_-H8L1IMV0h0BUKeywagalItJA/s200/luge+me.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdHzoNo5e3UeWybEno4AovZB4AgB4GTzW138yqY6_xZHMUB-TdD8IZqfvECeU_iXpmkfqMWliIOuV62GMFVIVozH6k3jsGNpC_QdEVuHiknGU8QoW6r5mO0AiITLecfor6M9kCFHbBRs/s1600/luge+route.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdHzoNo5e3UeWybEno4AovZB4AgB4GTzW138yqY6_xZHMUB-TdD8IZqfvECeU_iXpmkfqMWliIOuV62GMFVIVozH6k3jsGNpC_QdEVuHiknGU8QoW6r5mO0AiITLecfor6M9kCFHbBRs/s200/luge+route.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Energized
and excited after the zorb, I ran right over to do luge at the Skyline!
Luge is usually known to the world as a winter iced course in which you
are racing down. Here it was a little go cart, in which you sit in (see
above), with a decent track through tunnels, forests, rolling hills and
mini twists and turns (see above). Afterwards I drove around Lake
Taupo, which was just incredible and changing through out the drive. You
can see the colors and geographical change in the pictures above and
below. There were times when the sky and water looked so close in the
shades (see above). <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hBdL4UtRwgY/UPpC0TDx6OI/AAAAAAAAB2E/kxG59ZJzVR4/s1600/drive1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hBdL4UtRwgY/UPpC0TDx6OI/AAAAAAAAB2E/kxG59ZJzVR4/s200/drive1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rvyAZ2B6W8M/UPpDzi2X-sI/AAAAAAAAB4I/gJkpkeQ0BR0/s1600/oka+sunset.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rvyAZ2B6W8M/UPpDzi2X-sI/AAAAAAAAB4I/gJkpkeQ0BR0/s200/oka+sunset.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0MgZ4wwAASM/UPpEeKXimII/AAAAAAAAB64/xiiunEeYf34/s1600/drive3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0MgZ4wwAASM/UPpEeKXimII/AAAAAAAAB64/xiiunEeYf34/s200/drive3.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
Others when the sky was so vibrant and the clouds in a distinct
pattern (see above) you had to stop for a moment. Continued to drive
though the national park to reach my hostel and stay the night at
Ohakune. I finally got to chill out for a bit in a hot tub while looking
at the sun set behind the trees (see above).<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UfLwJW8aaT4/UP5UUeKeSSI/AAAAAAAACBA/sz9HLjlzmrk/s1600/oka+view.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UfLwJW8aaT4/UP5UUeKeSSI/AAAAAAAACBA/sz9HLjlzmrk/s200/oka+view.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I woke up early to drive up Mount Ruapehu, a nice road to zip up yet I
take my time winding down. Stopping for the views (see above) almost
every inch of the way. It was crazy cold but then again their was still
snow on the mountain (see above). </div>
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Then
continued down to Wellington. It was hard not to make stops along the
way when you would drive over a bridge and see a cute creek lying below.
The trip to Ms. T and Mr. B was full of little detours and even going
to rocky beaches. <br />
<br />
Made it their safe and sound, had
to find a internet cafe to get driving directions. Naturally the only 3
days I have the car and I get a ticket parking in the wrong area but I
was in the right place! Did really well driving on the other side of the
road and even parking, felt a bit accomplished. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mP0xz7dLvqQ/UPpDpjLtoeI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/Yd50puCiuDg/s1600/wel+museum1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mP0xz7dLvqQ/UPpDpjLtoeI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/Yd50puCiuDg/s200/wel+museum1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjhaJ-XpIgY/UPpDqbqncWI/AAAAAAAAB3k/8n-F6p0RQHE/s1600/wel2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjhaJ-XpIgY/UPpDqbqncWI/AAAAAAAAB3k/8n-F6p0RQHE/s200/wel2.jpg" width="200" /></a> <img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kazfkcId1Do/UPpDpmHcwxI/AAAAAAAAB3U/3FRkvFIS8yk/s200/wel+museum.jpg" width="200" /> </div>
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Once
in Wellington and with Ms. T and Mr. B, we explored Wellington's little
shops and the waterfront (see above), including Te Papa the national
museum. Which is where the giant squid has been memorialized and the
LOTR Trolls pretend to stomp on people (see above left). The city is
wonderful and well laid out (see below right) and the museum is
incorporated interactively to the surrounding grounds; including a
jungle ( see below right).</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMXtS0Vc4u0/UPpDqJuyIbI/AAAAAAAAB3o/sOeUDoBs3j0/s1600/wel.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMXtS0Vc4u0/UPpDqJuyIbI/AAAAAAAAB3o/sOeUDoBs3j0/s200/wel.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-869MtTUPmUY/UPpDp1VNaJI/AAAAAAAAB3s/AjBGLW-DAec/s1600/wel+museum2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-869MtTUPmUY/UPpDp1VNaJI/AAAAAAAAB3s/AjBGLW-DAec/s200/wel+museum2.jpg" width="200" /></a> </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Then
grabbed take out for dinner at Satay Kingdom and had a look at the
night markets. We later
went to Matterhorn for cocktails, and then clubbing on Courtney Place.
Finally, we had hot chocolate bowls at Enigma at 2am. Home by 4am,
trying to be at a "reasonable" hour since we were going to the South
Island tomorrow... and I will continue my blog with it soon.</div>
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To see my route or get a better understanding see or click below: </div>
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<small><a href="https://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&source=embed&saddr=Auckland&daddr=Thames,+Waikato+to:Auckland+to:Rotorua+to:Taupo,+Waikato+to:Ohakune,+Manawatu-Wanganui+to:Wellington+to:Picton,+Marlborough+to:Kaikoura,+Canterbury+to:Sheffield,+Canterbury+to:Queenstown,+Otago+to:Milford+Sound,+Southland+to:Christchurch,+Canterbury&hl=en&geocode=FbS8zf0dRK1qCin75pxa-0cNbTEXmaJDYe8ABQ%3BFfZPyf0dZox2CinD80XYyoBybTFADaNDYe8ABQ%3BFbS8zf0dRK1qCin75pxa-0cNbTEXmaJDYe8ABQ%3BFfATuv0dkluBCikrsvaCPZhubTExmaNDYe8ABQ%3BFQS0sf0dQp5-CilbFksUd-9rbTHgCaNDYe8ABQ%3BFUiHpv0dQV50CinVDuvunu9qbTEg7aJDYe8ABQ%3BFcQEiv0drN9qCinLdOlJ_LE4bTFwtBOiY-8ACg%3BFZ_0if0dbAtfCikFONSk6iY5bTFgoXmEhu8ABQ%3BFc8Def0d6ipaCil1fJE0OiA6bTE2mXmEhu8ABQ%3BFcLraf0dq9ZACikdK2je6Q8ubTFgzHmEhu8ABQ%3BFQbhUP0ddJYNCilf3qjX8R3VqTEApnmEhu8ABQ%3BFXddVv0ddVcCCil18X88vwvWqTGgjnmEhu8ABQ%3BFerAZ_0dQThKCikB7cVjSC8ybTFFmXmEhu8ABQ&aq=0&oq=christchurch&sll=-40.580585,175.429688&sspn=0.008214,0.016222&t=h&mra=ls&ie=UTF8&ll=-41.25906,172.054375&spn=8.823,8.64675" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small><br />
<br />
ahttps://maps.google.co.nz/maps?saddr=Auckland&daddr=Thames,+Waikato+to:Auckland+to:Rotorua+to:Taupo,+Waikato+to:Ohakune,+Manawatu-Wanganui+to:Wellington+to:Picton,+Marlborough+to:Kaikoura,+Canterbury+to:Sheffield,+Canterbury+to:Queenstown,+Otago+to:Milford+Sound,+Southland+to:Christchurch,+Canterbury&hl=en&sll=-40.580585,175.429688&sspn=0.008214,0.016222&geocode=FbS8zf0dRK1qCin75pxa-0cNbTEXmaJDYe8ABQ%3BFfZPyf0dZox2CinD80XYyoBybTFADaNDYe8ABQ%3BFbS8zf0dRK1qCin75pxa-0cNbTEXmaJDYe8ABQ%3BFfATuv0dkluBCikrsvaCPZhubTExmaNDYe8ABQ%3BFQS0sf0dQp5-CilbFksUd-9rbTHgCaNDYe8ABQ%3BFUiHpv0dQV50CinVDuvunu9qbTEg7aJDYe8ABQ%3BFcQEiv0drN9qCinLdOlJ_LE4bTFwtBOiY-8ACg%3BFZ_0if0dbAtfCikFONSk6iY5bTFgoXmEhu8ABQ%3BFc8Def0d6ipaCil1fJE0OiA6bTE2mXmEhu8ABQ%3BFcLraf0dq9ZACikdK2je6Q8ubTFgzHmEhu8ABQ%3BFQbhUP0ddJYNCilf3qjX8R3VqTEApnmEhu8ABQ%3BFXddVv0ddVcCCil18X88vwvWqTGgjnmEhu8ABQ%3BFerAZ_0dQThKCikB7cVjSC8ybTFFmXmEhu8ABQ&oq=christchurch&t=h&mra=ls&z=5<br />
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-13372183748589216072012-12-26T03:23:00.000-08:002012-12-26T03:23:15.769-08:00Made EarringsMaking my own jewellery has been on my list of things to do, so when I stumbled upon a store that would let me do it; I could not resist. Thus I stopped in and started picking out my beads and gem stones, with a wonderful necklace in mind that I lost the earrings to a while back. Picking the beads was the hardest part! Yet before I knew it I had my choices and were laying them out in a simple but pretty pattern. Then it was easy, just string them up and load them to an eye hook. Boom I had earrings for my necklace and completed another goal on my list. So loving this trip in New Zealand! Pictures of the earrings will come probably in 2013, sorry.Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-82931782917921686982012-12-21T22:21:00.001-08:002012-12-21T22:21:37.529-08:00Zorbing!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Zorbing was not on my list of things to do but should have been. I saw a video of it years ago and thought wow that looks fun. Naturally when I stumbled upon it, I had to try it and lucky for me I got the original company!</div>
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<img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cdo7-yoRAuE/UNUBsTtyuZI/AAAAAAAABtc/VrWSaVmFYyw/s320/DSCN0290.JPG" width="320" /> </div>
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Naturally you have options on the course, I choose to go straight down and windy. They stamp you so the rest of the crew can easily tell what you want to do. Then you change into your suit and get ready.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RyUvfb9KfT0/UNT2LE-JY1I/AAAAAAAABsM/F2RoeLfd89g/s1600/DSCN0280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RyUvfb9KfT0/UNT2LE-JY1I/AAAAAAAABsM/F2RoeLfd89g/s320/DSCN0280.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The "Zorb" is a giant bubble within a bubble, honestly looks a bit like a hampster ball except for humans. You are of course sealed in but there hole is for easy entry and exit by diving in and sliding out. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BODfJz8KfU0/UNT2TvnxZnI/AAAAAAAABsU/tFNDolGjWz4/s1600/DSCN0282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BODfJz8KfU0/UNT2TvnxZnI/AAAAAAAABsU/tFNDolGjWz4/s320/DSCN0282.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Naturally you have to drive the giant bubble up the hill so you can roll down it. They encourage you to try to run with the ball as long as you can; really you cannot, so don't bother to try. Once the ball is going, you are flying. <br />
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Then I was driven up for the next ride, which is suppose to be more crazy. The first one was a blast, so I am excited for the second. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3SsrEiiywYQ/UNT23AWssJI/AAAAAAAABs0/q-m7OhRhKPg/s1600/DSCN0287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3SsrEiiywYQ/UNT23AWssJI/AAAAAAAABs0/q-m7OhRhKPg/s320/DSCN0287.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Paused for a picture with the amazing view before I dived into the bubble for my second ride. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BO5d0wl-Hh0/UNT3By13GnI/AAAAAAAABs8/cP3nq-XDWwI/s1600/DSCN0288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BO5d0wl-Hh0/UNT3By13GnI/AAAAAAAABs8/cP3nq-XDWwI/s320/DSCN0288.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Unlike the first course which was straight down, this one is windy with curves and really throws you around. Luckily you are in a big cushy bubble that is filled with a bit of water and it simulates a water slide.<br />
<br />
Check out the video below. It was serious fun, hard to keep a hold of the camera or even the direction you are flying in. <br />
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If you are ever in New Zealand, Rotorua specifically this is makes for a great event, and fun day trip. It is the only place in the world that has the Zorb.<br />
<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5014970550103513078.post-77696891615191290012012-12-21T01:38:00.002-08:002012-12-21T01:42:43.644-08:00SCUBA certified completed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So I decided to give SCUBA diving another try... I had tried once before when I just started college at U.Oregon. At 18 years old, in the middle between midterms, papers and finals coming up... I just had to much stress and did not complete my open water test. Plus my school instructor did not have us wear a hood, boots or gloves during the winter when we did the open water in Washington. Crazy no? It was freezing and the visibility was horrible. <br />
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Ten years later, I regret this and decide to go for it again, especially since I have planned an incredible trip to New Zealand and Australia. Thus I signed up for a weekend class with pool sessions and planned the open water test around my friends wedding. Getting to Monterey was no easy feat, nor was getting to the wet suit! Once there I had a great teacher from Bamboo Reef. </div>
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For the record, I think these suits are like penguin suits and you can barely move. It is rather awkward. </div>
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Or so I thought before I tried to put on all the gear! OMG this is so heavy and I still have to walk?! </div>
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Walk or more waddle like a penguin we did down the stairs and to the beach. We then had to time our beach entry because the ocean was so rough and rocky. </div>
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Getting into the water is hard, and its a weird feeling of starting to have the weight relieved and then feeling it all. Plus the waves crashing into you, almost knocking you over. It was this part that would the first time make me feel a bit panicky as I can barely move. </div>
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Once you are well in the water, you can put your fins on which helps you stay afloat easier. The BC when inflated is like your best friend since it keeps you out of the water. I found I was OK when I was out of the water or fully emerged, it was the in between moments that wigged me.<br />
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We went to Breakwater and the site was built for diving, which Monterey has a lot if you are looking for a fun day trip. Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02331202778359485986noreply@blogger.com0