Keeping it Together

A month and a half in New Zealand and I'm bordering on three weeks unemployment... gasp. That means loads of time on my hands and and very limited funds to do anything in an expensive, touristy town.

Thankfully, my lovely employer has been fantastic at putting on free activities and meals for us! Not only have they stood up to the plate, but local businesses have also opened up their services to us. Among these are Fergburger (FREE FERG!), Queenstown gym and Kawarau Jet.

http://www.fergburger.com/fullscreen.html

http://www.queenstowngym.co.nz/

http://www.kjet.co.nz/

Pete and I have been working out like fiends and participating in as many activities as possible, including some volunteering at the salvation army.

Part of the ENORMOUS pile of boots we sorted through

A pretty choice pair of snowboard boots.

The boot pile conquering team.

Pray for cold weather and snow!

Back in the Saddle Again

We've been back in Queenstown, New Zealand for three weeks now for our third season. If you're counting , that's five consecutive winters, my last summer being that of 2008.

For the very first time, Pete and I had a place to move into on arrival. I'm super duper excited to be living with three good friends: Ryan, Zeljka and Gar.

As we touched down at the airport, I was pleased to see that snow was already accumulating on the mountain tops. Unfortunately, I spoke too soon; currently my whole household is temporarily laid off work until the snow gods decide to be more generous. Sigh.

As such, we are living off my few weeks of salary that I was lucky enough to make and having a grand old time. Our days now consist of watching unhealthy amounts of "The Wire", a daily walk into town where we try desperately to avoid all the alluring/expensive activities and cooking. Life is still good.

Of note? Zeljka turned a quarter century. Happy birthday to our lovely croatian friend.

View of the Remarkables from our room.

Just one of many painted camper vans. I especially like this one.

Sunrise from Coronet Peak.

An awesome homemade addition to our flat: the shot ski.

Vegan chocolate cake for Zeljks

Balloon art by William Ryan Thompson, ltd edition. Gar's popped prematurely; it was too soon, RIP balloon Gar.

25 years old!

With the balloon art version of her man.

The artist himself

Me and my lover.

View of Remarks from Coronet in a sea of clouds.

Pray for snow, please!