I approached this building with excitement.Much talk about this place has been floating in the air. When I arrived at the front door the host said table for one? I said yes, I believe so. As the host took me to my table in front of the large bay windows, I could feel the warmth of the tall round table against the back of my hands as I browsed through the menu. My seat was warm as if someone was saving it for me until I arrived. A bar stool stood across from me at my table, and I can only imagine that it was warm from the beating sun that penetrated through the windows illuminating the entire room with natural light. The place was quite small and quaint. It had this unique charm about it. The display window next to the register had eloquent desserts, and some sub sandwiches that were hand crafted and made with passion. Only a few people occupied this small hole in the wall diner. A couple over my shoulder with one child no older then one, and a group of young adults that were right in my line of site. If only they would hurry up and take their seat in front of me so I wouldn't have to make eye contact with one of the young adults. We would natural look up with our wondering eyes, us being both in the line of sight would make it easy for us to awkwardly stare at each other. I checked my watch it read 10:15 am, I glanced out the huge windows I was sitting next too and looked down the street in both directions, my face inches away from the glass in hopes to see just a tad further. I was wondering if they would show. I start to look across the street in the crowd of people when I was interrupted by a high feminine voice. "are you ready to order sir?" She had dark brown eyes, red curly hair and a very soft face. She wore bright red lipstick, and you can see her freckles that were faintly appearing on her nose. A short women, about 5'2" and a name tag that read Nancy. She couldn't be no older the 24 and you could tell this was a temporary job, she was pursuing acting or singing. A creative trendy look to her, and her dreams were vibrant, like a light that surrounded her body. She started telling me the orders, and I told her what my stomach desired, and ordered some water to go along with it. Before departing she asked me if I was waiting for someone, I told her I'm not sure and to go ahead and place my order. She walked away with a beautiful strut, careless and free. I turned and looked up and down the street again. Not a single face I recognized. No one even noticed me as I stared at the people passing. It was just another day for them, and the probably passed this small cafe millions of times, adapting to the faces starring out these windows. I grabbed my water and started to sip on it when I notice one of the young adults making eye contact again. You could tell the expression on his face was wondering why I was alone in a wonderful place like this. I must agree, this isn't a place where you eat alone. You would take a first date here, or make it your local spot if you lived down the street. For me it was neither, it was a place I once heard about, much talk that it was a great place, wonderful and fabulous. As happy as I was to be in a place that was so highly talked about I still found my self seated alone waiting for someone to take the seat across from me. My order came in and I began to eat the most exquisite meal ever. Everything was perfect, the temperature of the food allowed you to eat right away, steam rolled off the plate, and the smell was that of heaven, the smell of the food made your mouth water. Nothing I have ever tasted before. Made to perfection, and this experience was everything I thought it would be and more. I slowly enjoyed my food. In my own world, enjoying this experience I thought of the next time I would come back to get a taste of this place again. I couldn't help but savor every bite. For I knew this would be my only meal at this cafe for awhile. I glanced down the road once more to see if anyone was coming. Again not a single familiar face. I wondered why no one I knew was coming, they are missing out on something great. Something they will never experience if they don't come to this exact location. But would they ever, would my story of this place be so inspiring they would want to ditch routine and try something different? I hope so. And I took my last bite of my food, swallowing it I knew it was the end. I enjoyed every moment. It was time to pay at the register and depart from this magnificent cafe. My plate was so clean they could have reused it right there. Nothing left, I took everything in. As I approached the register I bought a little dessert, maybe this will be a little motivation and evidence about how wonderful this place is. The lady at the counter gave me a small bag for the dessert. As I was walking out Nancy was standing at the hostess booth right by the door. She said sorry your friend didn't make it, I told her It was a slim chance they would come this time. But maybe next time my experience here would be a table for two.
THE END
Thanks for reading all my blogs. Hope you enjoyed them!!!
Friday, March 30, 2012
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Forever young
We can’t stay on this road forever, eventually it will come to an end; but if it doesn’t end we must be on the road of eternity, which in the end, we are all traveling anyways. So no matter where your road is taking you I hope we will cross again. Maybe meet at an intersection for some tea and toast. Regardless the time has come, and another fork lies in the path. If forks didn’t exist the road we travel on will be one in the same, but then again, if forks didn’t exist eating spaghetti would be such a hardship.
I'm back in Auckland, the city where I first landed in. I traveled both islands, doing various activities along the way. Staying with my family was one of the greatest times I had. Many relaxing days, filled with much family time and intimacy. They were once only thought of as family over seas. As our lives only intersected one time in America, the thought of actually visiting felt surreal. Entering their humble aboad I felt instant connections, each family member holds a special place in my heart. In saying this, leaving the small town of Mosgiel, a town lying just outside of dunedin, was the hardest place to leave. I think it's because I know that the next time I see them it could possible be another eight years, hoping thats not the case, goodbyes can easily be filled with sarcasim, inside jokes, and prolonged departure. Sure, its not goodbye but more so see ya later, yet the chances of seeing you soon is quite possible slim. And when facing that reality, knowing the next time Ill see my cousins they will be grown, I couldn't help but stroll away one final time as tears ran down my cheek.
Now I'm with my family in Auckland, a different family from the one in mosgeil, but family nontheless. You see this family I came across because I met their son in the hostel. And that is what stands out to me in my travels, out of the thousands of travelers that take the trek across New Zealand, I random met a family that opened their house to me for an extended period of time. I have to assume this is pretty rare. I love how it was so divine, because if I never went to the hostel, or if Cody never got in his arguement at home, if his work was on another street, or if the prices at the other hostel were cheaper. all small factors that would of lead me in a different direction and Cody and I would of never met, but because all these things played out the way they did, I sit here writing this blog on a couch having a cup of tea before going to the movies with mom.
The other day we played rugby at the local park. All the neighborhood kids came out to play. I got to talking with a maori kid who was about 4 ft tall. short black hair. and a very outgoing personalitiy "hey you're from America?" yes I am I said. " you like it?" very much so I responded. "do you watch Icarly?" "
ummmm not really, caught a couple episodes. do you?'
"nope not that much"
Growing up football was a big part of the childhood. always getting games together at parks, fields, in the middle of the street, and side lots. And to enter into someone else's world half way around the earth and see them doing the same thing was very heartwarming. It was like I was reliving my childhood but with rugby instead of football. As if I was back home with d-but, anthony, kory, dan jeremy, and peter playing some football at Audubon park. carefree and with no worries.
This week has been great and the family here loves rugby. I've been digesting it like a feast served 24/7. The way SportsCenter plays constantly late into the night, rugby runs like that here. But it is a great sport to play. Maybe I'll bring a ball back and we will get some games going at a park, and the memories once made as children will only be layered with same stories just as a young adult. For I will age, but my spirit will never grow old. I'm forever young.
I'm back in Auckland, the city where I first landed in. I traveled both islands, doing various activities along the way. Staying with my family was one of the greatest times I had. Many relaxing days, filled with much family time and intimacy. They were once only thought of as family over seas. As our lives only intersected one time in America, the thought of actually visiting felt surreal. Entering their humble aboad I felt instant connections, each family member holds a special place in my heart. In saying this, leaving the small town of Mosgiel, a town lying just outside of dunedin, was the hardest place to leave. I think it's because I know that the next time I see them it could possible be another eight years, hoping thats not the case, goodbyes can easily be filled with sarcasim, inside jokes, and prolonged departure. Sure, its not goodbye but more so see ya later, yet the chances of seeing you soon is quite possible slim. And when facing that reality, knowing the next time Ill see my cousins they will be grown, I couldn't help but stroll away one final time as tears ran down my cheek.
Now I'm with my family in Auckland, a different family from the one in mosgeil, but family nontheless. You see this family I came across because I met their son in the hostel. And that is what stands out to me in my travels, out of the thousands of travelers that take the trek across New Zealand, I random met a family that opened their house to me for an extended period of time. I have to assume this is pretty rare. I love how it was so divine, because if I never went to the hostel, or if Cody never got in his arguement at home, if his work was on another street, or if the prices at the other hostel were cheaper. all small factors that would of lead me in a different direction and Cody and I would of never met, but because all these things played out the way they did, I sit here writing this blog on a couch having a cup of tea before going to the movies with mom.
The other day we played rugby at the local park. All the neighborhood kids came out to play. I got to talking with a maori kid who was about 4 ft tall. short black hair. and a very outgoing personalitiy "hey you're from America?" yes I am I said. " you like it?" very much so I responded. "do you watch Icarly?" "
ummmm not really, caught a couple episodes. do you?'
"nope not that much"
Growing up football was a big part of the childhood. always getting games together at parks, fields, in the middle of the street, and side lots. And to enter into someone else's world half way around the earth and see them doing the same thing was very heartwarming. It was like I was reliving my childhood but with rugby instead of football. As if I was back home with d-but, anthony, kory, dan jeremy, and peter playing some football at Audubon park. carefree and with no worries.
This week has been great and the family here loves rugby. I've been digesting it like a feast served 24/7. The way SportsCenter plays constantly late into the night, rugby runs like that here. But it is a great sport to play. Maybe I'll bring a ball back and we will get some games going at a park, and the memories once made as children will only be layered with same stories just as a young adult. For I will age, but my spirit will never grow old. I'm forever young.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Family Adventure
Overcast most days, sometimes the sun is able to squeeze light through the clouds that act like a strong filter. Rain more often then not, and temperatures that show significant signs that fall is arriving. Awaken by a boney small structure, heavy enough to realize is there but not enough to fell oppressed, I slowly move under my sheets in hopes to find my watch. The noisy high voices of children with much energy reverb through the house. And I awaken like a zombie, sluggish and slow.The time reads 8 am and as everyone throughout the house is getting ready for the day, I arise like aman who lost his job, wondering what my day will consist of and why so early.The children ae chattery and excited as they greet my morning with smiles and giggles, tempting to tickle my feet they continue on in their bliss as they have some down time before school. I have just landed into the movie production " the change up." I went from a house full of young men who tend to sleep until their work shift regardless the time, to hyper-active children with more energy then that of the bunny who markets batteries. My schedule on holiday is being completely adjusted. I look forward to it though, I embrace the kis nature of excitment for the day. A cup of tea with sugar ( a must) and usually a piece of toast, then off to school we go. A stroll down the street to drop my cousins off and my day has begun in Mosgeil, New Zealand.
Meeting new cousins, some only seen in photographs has been very delightful. Timing couldnt be better as I had the opportunity to see a new baby enter the world. My cousin, Ashley just had her second child, felix, on March 5th "sweet as." This part of my trip is all about family. Although, I did have a young German man stay here at my uncles for the first two days. His name was Janice and he traveled with me to Mosgeil. I met him at a hostel the night before I left toward Dunedin. Hopefully if it works out we will travel some more together before I leave back to the north island. Anyways, I realized in the life of traveling feeling at home comes rare so when it does happen you are very thankful. Constantly on the move it's rare you'll come to a place where you feel totally comfortable and relaxed. I can say this has happened one other time and it was with the family in Auckland I stayed with. I have to keep my guard up. My safety is very important so approaching new things may not look hesitant on the outside but internally I am asking myself all the appropriate questions. Usually this safety precaution isnt anything extreme because travelers are all in the same boat, vulnerable in the sense of seeking friendhsip , and craving adventure in its randomness. But here it was nice to set my things down without questioning someone's intentions. There is no deposit fee (I'm sure its coming though haha) or nightly fee, no charge for internet, it doesnt cost 8 dollars to do laundry, and no random roommates. Sure this is part of traveling and has to be accepted if you are traveling, but being able to travel in country with family is such an amazing privilage. Slowly slipping into the routine of the family household, life here is clock work, as it should be. Wake up for breakfast, school, extra activities after school, tea, then bed. Just another ordinary day. Sorry If you thought this post would be full of exciting crazy stories. No skydiving, or meeting a guy that took me on a helicopter ride, no cliff jumping, or whale watching. Just waking up and reading, hanging out with cousins and ending the day with a movie accompanied by my Aunt, and an Occasional chest game with my uncle. But the thing I realized as I continue in this part of my adventure is, that this is probably the highlight of my entire trip. My moments of excitment of hiking up a mountain next to a waterfall, or hitch-hiking to a city will eventually fad, and the things I will reminicse on is what I did with my family. For family is a special thing. Whether adopt into one, or simple blood related, maybe perfect in everyway, or so dysfunctional they should make a movie out of it, regardless there is some sort of support you have in your life, and the way it looks will be different to others.But I have to believe that everyone is apart of a family. In saying that, I will say this, in all the crazy things Ive seen and experienced watching someone day in and day out raise a family makes me come to my conclusion of this blog; traveling the world is great, but raising a family has to be the best adventure ever...
Meeting new cousins, some only seen in photographs has been very delightful. Timing couldnt be better as I had the opportunity to see a new baby enter the world. My cousin, Ashley just had her second child, felix, on March 5th "sweet as." This part of my trip is all about family. Although, I did have a young German man stay here at my uncles for the first two days. His name was Janice and he traveled with me to Mosgeil. I met him at a hostel the night before I left toward Dunedin. Hopefully if it works out we will travel some more together before I leave back to the north island. Anyways, I realized in the life of traveling feeling at home comes rare so when it does happen you are very thankful. Constantly on the move it's rare you'll come to a place where you feel totally comfortable and relaxed. I can say this has happened one other time and it was with the family in Auckland I stayed with. I have to keep my guard up. My safety is very important so approaching new things may not look hesitant on the outside but internally I am asking myself all the appropriate questions. Usually this safety precaution isnt anything extreme because travelers are all in the same boat, vulnerable in the sense of seeking friendhsip , and craving adventure in its randomness. But here it was nice to set my things down without questioning someone's intentions. There is no deposit fee (I'm sure its coming though haha) or nightly fee, no charge for internet, it doesnt cost 8 dollars to do laundry, and no random roommates. Sure this is part of traveling and has to be accepted if you are traveling, but being able to travel in country with family is such an amazing privilage. Slowly slipping into the routine of the family household, life here is clock work, as it should be. Wake up for breakfast, school, extra activities after school, tea, then bed. Just another ordinary day. Sorry If you thought this post would be full of exciting crazy stories. No skydiving, or meeting a guy that took me on a helicopter ride, no cliff jumping, or whale watching. Just waking up and reading, hanging out with cousins and ending the day with a movie accompanied by my Aunt, and an Occasional chest game with my uncle. But the thing I realized as I continue in this part of my adventure is, that this is probably the highlight of my entire trip. My moments of excitment of hiking up a mountain next to a waterfall, or hitch-hiking to a city will eventually fad, and the things I will reminicse on is what I did with my family. For family is a special thing. Whether adopt into one, or simple blood related, maybe perfect in everyway, or so dysfunctional they should make a movie out of it, regardless there is some sort of support you have in your life, and the way it looks will be different to others.But I have to believe that everyone is apart of a family. In saying that, I will say this, in all the crazy things Ive seen and experienced watching someone day in and day out raise a family makes me come to my conclusion of this blog; traveling the world is great, but raising a family has to be the best adventure ever...
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
A moment of gratitude.
As sparks fly a youthfulness is casted over every person. The transforming colors and patterns take the midnight sky, and for the 7 minutes all eyes stare up in hopes That the Next moment will surpass the last. Nothing short of amazing,the defusing sparks fall slowly decapitating before reaching the earth. It's as if God paused time, the once glimmering fireworks has become frozen and placed into the night sky forever. Stars cast over us daily, yet the recognition of a phenomenon above is merely simplified to a glance up in hopes to see the occasional full moon. magnificent beauty seen by few outside this globe is taken for granted by all. For seeing things is amazing, but sharing them produces the perfect moment. A bond formed with the uncomprehendable sites, and connection with those you care about create a warmth inside the soul that leaves you satisfied, like that of a young child sipping on hot chocolate after a day in the snow. Whipping up dinner, following it with dessert, and toping it off with star gazing on a twin size mattress, the six of us joined together sharing moments, and laughs through a freedom of travel and special bond formed in every traveler. The worries of the world is left at home with mom along with emergency contact info. and bonding with fellow travelers create stronger friendships faster then any connections. Similarities are already aligned for ambition has driven us both to the same place. The road of traveling.
As mountains abruptly halt, and water aimlessly falls to the rivers an stream beneath, The unique creation of a waterfall is quickly spotted everywhere down the west coast of the south island. I see your lakes Spokane, and raise you a cornucopia of waterfalls. Like stars in the sky, waterfalls can slowly become less appealing because in the last four days it's been a common site. As life comes full steam ahead it's important to not become continent on the road of traveling, nor at home. For in the moment of seeing another waterfall, large or small, soak in that moment for what it is...amazing.
As our travels continue we eventually come to a fork, two signs pointing in two different directions. One says Dunedin and the other Christchurch. Goodbyes are heavy, but if it's only temporary, which I have to believe it is, then the hellos to come will be even heavier. these three girls allowed me to accompany them for a week, and o the joy that has come from this period of traveling. A small family was created in a tiny four door corolla. And as I come back home and share this part of the journey with friends, only the ones in that corolla will be able to Phaethon what was experienced. And to you three I say this, you are women of strength and beauty, love and kindness, humor and sarcasm, but what I will not remember you by is where your from, nor your ethnicity, or features , but by your hearts and souls. Enjoy the rest of your travels, and I hope your travels allow me to stumble across you again.
As for me, I saw glaciers, lakes, mountains, sounds, and sheep. Slept on a hippies bus, to a bus in a families backyard. Held parrots, hung out with baby cows, and stood under waterfalls. There was even a
moment where I descended into the clouds( We were so high up at one point in our drive that we sat above the clouds). Pictures have been captured and memory's made, but the only thing I can say about this part of the trip is mystical.
Now off to Dunedin I go. Excitement roars within like a lion, yet composed with calmness like a cheetah spying on its prey. The reason behind my travels is about to be achieved. Seeing my uncle and his family in dunedein is something I longed for. The journey leading up to this point is nothing less then riveting. A reverence for the road at hand. A tip for the man playing on the corner. A silent applause orchestrated by the wind. Followed by a bow from the trees. I'll drop my comments off in the clouds, and listen to what the rain has to say. And when she's done talking Ill thank he who created this place. And continue on with my journey.
As mountains abruptly halt, and water aimlessly falls to the rivers an stream beneath, The unique creation of a waterfall is quickly spotted everywhere down the west coast of the south island. I see your lakes Spokane, and raise you a cornucopia of waterfalls. Like stars in the sky, waterfalls can slowly become less appealing because in the last four days it's been a common site. As life comes full steam ahead it's important to not become continent on the road of traveling, nor at home. For in the moment of seeing another waterfall, large or small, soak in that moment for what it is...amazing.
As our travels continue we eventually come to a fork, two signs pointing in two different directions. One says Dunedin and the other Christchurch. Goodbyes are heavy, but if it's only temporary, which I have to believe it is, then the hellos to come will be even heavier. these three girls allowed me to accompany them for a week, and o the joy that has come from this period of traveling. A small family was created in a tiny four door corolla. And as I come back home and share this part of the journey with friends, only the ones in that corolla will be able to Phaethon what was experienced. And to you three I say this, you are women of strength and beauty, love and kindness, humor and sarcasm, but what I will not remember you by is where your from, nor your ethnicity, or features , but by your hearts and souls. Enjoy the rest of your travels, and I hope your travels allow me to stumble across you again.
As for me, I saw glaciers, lakes, mountains, sounds, and sheep. Slept on a hippies bus, to a bus in a families backyard. Held parrots, hung out with baby cows, and stood under waterfalls. There was even a
moment where I descended into the clouds( We were so high up at one point in our drive that we sat above the clouds). Pictures have been captured and memory's made, but the only thing I can say about this part of the trip is mystical.
Now off to Dunedin I go. Excitement roars within like a lion, yet composed with calmness like a cheetah spying on its prey. The reason behind my travels is about to be achieved. Seeing my uncle and his family in dunedein is something I longed for. The journey leading up to this point is nothing less then riveting. A reverence for the road at hand. A tip for the man playing on the corner. A silent applause orchestrated by the wind. Followed by a bow from the trees. I'll drop my comments off in the clouds, and listen to what the rain has to say. And when she's done talking Ill thank he who created this place. And continue on with my journey.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Thumbs pointing south
As my journey continues the perception of traveling is demolished by exceeding standard of adventures. Each day hatches a new expedition full of interesting task. The trailer I formed for this adventure is put to rest by the unprecedented circumstances. I realize what I thought of, and what is to be, are on two sides of the spectrum. Like watching a movie trailer, then watching a movie, standards can be shattered because the expectation is surpassed by the quality of fulfillment in the theater. This journey has surpassed anything I could of thought of. No true grasp can be secured unless you are there to cling onto what it is you desire to hold. My travels have been a life changing experience. Reflection is promising when traveling. Nevertheless, appreciation for the things that have been falling second to useless priorities are coming to the forefront of my mind. Friendships I've always had are now even more valued when away, Family is being cherished, and a closet with a plethora of options sounds golden. I'm currently traveling south yet I know each step taken is one closer to home. Time is ticking an d I'm nearing on a month left. I can only assume the enjoyment of home will last for a bit then the craving for more will flare up. So im enjoying this spontaneous lifestyle, and going with the wind.
I met a guy from czech republic names Martin. He took me to Napier where I stayed with a family friend names mike. I arrived in Napier the same time the city was having their 1930s festival. The entire city is morphed into the 1930s, everyone dresses up, old cars line the streets, a live band plays on the beach, and old machinery is put in display. Also, mike took me fishing on Sunday. Although We didn't catch anything we did capture everlasting memories. Napier is a nice little town, and I can't thank mike and his family enough for the hospitality, and warm gestures.
From there I was dropped off on the out skirts of town. I hitched a ride from Napier to Wellington with a man named hue. At first I was a little skeptical with riding with a stranger, but after a brief convo I knew this ride would be smooth riding. Hue is a 65 yr old retired scientist. He use to travel when he was younger. We exchanged stories and stopped at some place along the way. He even took me to the train station in his city so I could get to my final destination. Nice chap he is. Altogether I hitched the distance between Vancouver washington and Seattle.
In Wellington, which is located at the bottom of the north island. I found a hostel, got situated and then went to
Meet some girls. I met some girls I had been talking to from a website called couch surfing. This website allows you to see what other travelers are doing, and possible stay on a locals couch for the night. Shortly after we met, I bought a ticket for the ferry and am now traveling with them on the south island. We did wine tasting, and am currently undergoing my first couch surfing experience. They are sleeping inside the house and I am In a bus, one that reminds me of the one in "into the wild." it's pretty sweet!!!
More so, I was introduced casually to a guy named Juan. He is an animator for a company called wedda. If you don't know what level of Editing he's on through this company then you'll realize through the movies he did...which are: rise of the planet of the apes, the hobbit, adventures of tin tin, avatar, etc. I was able to pick his brain about media. Super cool guy, so chill and welcoming. I'm looking forward to going back to Wellington and connecting with him.
This journey has been a long one and my beard will prove it when I return. I lost my razor so I have no intention of shaving. Can't hold one anyways because my thumbs are out and they are pointing south.
"Let the wind blow and I shall tumble along with it like a leaf, Careless and free."
I met a guy from czech republic names Martin. He took me to Napier where I stayed with a family friend names mike. I arrived in Napier the same time the city was having their 1930s festival. The entire city is morphed into the 1930s, everyone dresses up, old cars line the streets, a live band plays on the beach, and old machinery is put in display. Also, mike took me fishing on Sunday. Although We didn't catch anything we did capture everlasting memories. Napier is a nice little town, and I can't thank mike and his family enough for the hospitality, and warm gestures.
From there I was dropped off on the out skirts of town. I hitched a ride from Napier to Wellington with a man named hue. At first I was a little skeptical with riding with a stranger, but after a brief convo I knew this ride would be smooth riding. Hue is a 65 yr old retired scientist. He use to travel when he was younger. We exchanged stories and stopped at some place along the way. He even took me to the train station in his city so I could get to my final destination. Nice chap he is. Altogether I hitched the distance between Vancouver washington and Seattle.
In Wellington, which is located at the bottom of the north island. I found a hostel, got situated and then went to
Meet some girls. I met some girls I had been talking to from a website called couch surfing. This website allows you to see what other travelers are doing, and possible stay on a locals couch for the night. Shortly after we met, I bought a ticket for the ferry and am now traveling with them on the south island. We did wine tasting, and am currently undergoing my first couch surfing experience. They are sleeping inside the house and I am In a bus, one that reminds me of the one in "into the wild." it's pretty sweet!!!
More so, I was introduced casually to a guy named Juan. He is an animator for a company called wedda. If you don't know what level of Editing he's on through this company then you'll realize through the movies he did...which are: rise of the planet of the apes, the hobbit, adventures of tin tin, avatar, etc. I was able to pick his brain about media. Super cool guy, so chill and welcoming. I'm looking forward to going back to Wellington and connecting with him.
This journey has been a long one and my beard will prove it when I return. I lost my razor so I have no intention of shaving. Can't hold one anyways because my thumbs are out and they are pointing south.
"Let the wind blow and I shall tumble along with it like a leaf, Careless and free."
Monday, February 13, 2012
homeless to homeland
If you are my relatives you probably wont want to read this, if you're my friends you'll probably find this pretty insane, and if you like adventure, enjoy.
So my flight to New Zealand arrived into Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, at 12:30 a.m. I didn't get out of customs until 2 am. I stepped foot in a new country. With no plans, no one to pick me up, and no friends, I had no clue what to do. I was far out from the city and didnt even know how to get there. The night was clear and dry. the city was silent and asleep. And and two thirtyt am i found myself skating down the street in new zealand. My arrival into a country I always dreamed of coming to, wasn't one I imagined. As I continued to skate in hopes of someone invitiing me in for the night I realized I was about to do something never done...spend the night on the streets. At about three am i started looking for places to sleep, checked buidlings, parks, fields, anything that would keep me out of harms way through the night and into the morning. I didnt want to be seen by anyone. I even walked througha cemetery. I figured no one was going to be there except the dead of course. And I was willing to sleep next to them if that meant protection. As I walked through the cemetery I found some prime locations to sleep. The only reason why I didnt sleep there was because I didnt know when matienence would arrive the next morning. the last thing i watned was being greeted by some kiwi cops on my first morning. I kept moving on until i came across a church. Theres not a better place to crash for a rookie on the streets. So i went behind this church, set up camp at about four, and fell asleep between the church a field and a house. I was greeted by a church member the next morning, she asked what i was doing. Simply said I thought all was welcomed to the house og God regardless the hour. Ok i didnt say that, but i just answered honestly packed up at seven and continued to skate toward the city.
Getting to the city took forever. what should have been an hour trip took me four. its a lot like seattle, hills, rain, and cloudy. I couldnt see the skyline and all the hills covered up and signs of downtown. after the long trek i finally made it to downtown auckland. checked in a hostel at about one and slept to six pm.
O my gosh, i swear to you this hostel was the most janky, sketchy, random, ran-down hostel ever. My roommates were three guys from india and a dude named cody who was local. two of the indian guys were pretty cool, used "bro" way to much. the other guy was sketchy. When I entered at noon he was submerged under his blankets, i figured he had a late night of partying and was sleeping in. When I woke up at six pm he was still under the covers, i then thought he was dead until i saw him move. Then I went out for dinner came back at like 8, still under the covers. Left for a movie at nine came back and he was still under his covers. and entire day he didnt leave his bed...creepy. I went to bed at 12:30 am, when i was falling asleep the guy gets up and starts pacing from one side of the room to another. like face pacing to the end of the room would stop, spin and walk to the otherside. he did this for a straight hr, he would periodically stop and look out the window for thirty seconds then conitue pacing. I asked if he was ok but his accent was to strong for me to understand his response. he stayed up the entire night. I woke up randomly at four am and he was facing the wall looking at his computer. The next day same thing, spent all day in bed, i didnt see him, move, didnt see his face, nothing. Until i came back once and he was gone, he walked in the room, I told him my name and he just stared at me then walked to his bed. I left the room and came back later and he was eating subway iin the dark, not a single light on. then that night he stayed up all night pacing and what not. He didnt change his clothes the whole time I was there, even though he had extra clothes, and the room smelled like a decomposing body, swear. the guy was insane. i literally slept with my knife under my pillow both nights.
But the local mate in the room was real cool. His name is cody and he has traveled to the states, he knows a lot about american sports, which is nice. After talking for a little bit we had much incommon. It was one of those encounters where you feel like you knew the person your entire life even though you just met. So the next day , last day at the hostel, him and I hungout in the city. He was my first friend in New Zealand, He couldn"t come at a better time because the sketchy hostel and boring city made me want to leave auckland, which i was going to do on monday, the day i checked out of the hostel. As we hungout we realized we were checking out the same day. He randomly invited me to his moms house for her birthday party, now that has turned into me staying at their house. Their mali ( the natives of the island) so they have much pride for their land and history. One thing led to another and Ive been stayinng with his family ever since. THey even let their kids skip school to come hangout with the new american family member. I was embraced like I was their own. Literally already call Mrs. Randell mom and Mr. Randell dad. Its funny because I feel like an exchange student, have my own bed, they dont let me make my food, they did my laundry, super nice and loving. whanau means family in mali (the native language) and thas how ive been embraced...
So my flight to New Zealand arrived into Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, at 12:30 a.m. I didn't get out of customs until 2 am. I stepped foot in a new country. With no plans, no one to pick me up, and no friends, I had no clue what to do. I was far out from the city and didnt even know how to get there. The night was clear and dry. the city was silent and asleep. And and two thirtyt am i found myself skating down the street in new zealand. My arrival into a country I always dreamed of coming to, wasn't one I imagined. As I continued to skate in hopes of someone invitiing me in for the night I realized I was about to do something never done...spend the night on the streets. At about three am i started looking for places to sleep, checked buidlings, parks, fields, anything that would keep me out of harms way through the night and into the morning. I didnt want to be seen by anyone. I even walked througha cemetery. I figured no one was going to be there except the dead of course. And I was willing to sleep next to them if that meant protection. As I walked through the cemetery I found some prime locations to sleep. The only reason why I didnt sleep there was because I didnt know when matienence would arrive the next morning. the last thing i watned was being greeted by some kiwi cops on my first morning. I kept moving on until i came across a church. Theres not a better place to crash for a rookie on the streets. So i went behind this church, set up camp at about four, and fell asleep between the church a field and a house. I was greeted by a church member the next morning, she asked what i was doing. Simply said I thought all was welcomed to the house og God regardless the hour. Ok i didnt say that, but i just answered honestly packed up at seven and continued to skate toward the city.
Getting to the city took forever. what should have been an hour trip took me four. its a lot like seattle, hills, rain, and cloudy. I couldnt see the skyline and all the hills covered up and signs of downtown. after the long trek i finally made it to downtown auckland. checked in a hostel at about one and slept to six pm.
O my gosh, i swear to you this hostel was the most janky, sketchy, random, ran-down hostel ever. My roommates were three guys from india and a dude named cody who was local. two of the indian guys were pretty cool, used "bro" way to much. the other guy was sketchy. When I entered at noon he was submerged under his blankets, i figured he had a late night of partying and was sleeping in. When I woke up at six pm he was still under the covers, i then thought he was dead until i saw him move. Then I went out for dinner came back at like 8, still under the covers. Left for a movie at nine came back and he was still under his covers. and entire day he didnt leave his bed...creepy. I went to bed at 12:30 am, when i was falling asleep the guy gets up and starts pacing from one side of the room to another. like face pacing to the end of the room would stop, spin and walk to the otherside. he did this for a straight hr, he would periodically stop and look out the window for thirty seconds then conitue pacing. I asked if he was ok but his accent was to strong for me to understand his response. he stayed up the entire night. I woke up randomly at four am and he was facing the wall looking at his computer. The next day same thing, spent all day in bed, i didnt see him, move, didnt see his face, nothing. Until i came back once and he was gone, he walked in the room, I told him my name and he just stared at me then walked to his bed. I left the room and came back later and he was eating subway iin the dark, not a single light on. then that night he stayed up all night pacing and what not. He didnt change his clothes the whole time I was there, even though he had extra clothes, and the room smelled like a decomposing body, swear. the guy was insane. i literally slept with my knife under my pillow both nights.
But the local mate in the room was real cool. His name is cody and he has traveled to the states, he knows a lot about american sports, which is nice. After talking for a little bit we had much incommon. It was one of those encounters where you feel like you knew the person your entire life even though you just met. So the next day , last day at the hostel, him and I hungout in the city. He was my first friend in New Zealand, He couldn"t come at a better time because the sketchy hostel and boring city made me want to leave auckland, which i was going to do on monday, the day i checked out of the hostel. As we hungout we realized we were checking out the same day. He randomly invited me to his moms house for her birthday party, now that has turned into me staying at their house. Their mali ( the natives of the island) so they have much pride for their land and history. One thing led to another and Ive been stayinng with his family ever since. THey even let their kids skip school to come hangout with the new american family member. I was embraced like I was their own. Literally already call Mrs. Randell mom and Mr. Randell dad. Its funny because I feel like an exchange student, have my own bed, they dont let me make my food, they did my laundry, super nice and loving. whanau means family in mali (the native language) and thas how ive been embraced...
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Tim is not an essence
The rain beats on my tent, the consistent thud of the drops makes the experience of camping so beautiful. Im lying in the middle of a thunderstorm on the top of the blue mountains, serenity feels the air, it's the perfect last day...until I woke up the next morning soaked, backpack wet, sleeping bag drenched, I'm cold.
It's the last day of two weeks, I've been away from my home for about three weeks now. There have been more moments where the time feels like its standing still, yet I find myself looking at time like a pair of lost keys, I've kept a grasp on it for so long, but today I can't find it. It has seem to slip through my fingers, and I'm mentally reflecting on where i last left it. For so long i held onto it counting down my return. I must of set it down on the counter the day I left all my worries to chase after something I didn't know I was running for.
As We walk down life's path it's abrupt edges leaves people struck with fear. So naturally we glance back, we want to see who will be there incase we can't do it, incase we fail. Yet, as I looked back i saw no one, not a single soul I knew. And that's when self-realization hits as a traveler, when you come to except that in the physical state you are alone. the backbone to most travelers is left at home.feeling paralyzed you don't want to move. You have all the time in the world and your agenda has been set on fire like a Forrest. So when your friends are gone, when the family is absent, when your job means nothing, and your most valuable possession collect dust, the real challenge begins. The things that I thought made me, don't. The things I now realize I invest in way to much have been kicked from beneath me. You get to know yourself in a whole new way, and the process is beautiful. At first adapting to traveling was hard because i was trying to discover something that has already been discovered. until i realized backpacking isn't about discovering new land, or seeing new things, but its ultimately about discovering yourself through the must bizarre circumstances. Circumstance that are a rarity when at home.
Now that I've understood and taken in the processes of backpacking i really started understanding how I function. backpacking has evolved into one of my favorite things. What you learn is unbelievable, and The stories are endless.
Here's one...
Her name is Mrs. Victoria, she owns a piano shop. Luckily I was able to get there before she closed, but surprisingly I stayed for an hour after she closed talking with her about life and her adventures when she was younger. As I went back to mrs. Victoria's piano shop to play the next day, a man entered briefly after i started playing. He was talking to the owner, mrs. Victoria when he heard me playing one of the pianos in the corner. He approached me and introduces himself, he then ask to take a seat. I said yes of course, he tells me to continue playing what I was playing, so I do. Then he just freely starts playing along on the top half of the piano as I played the bottom. We performed a duet together, even drew a small crowd. I'm suppose to meet him tomorrow morning before I leave to play some more, maybe get some lessons. He said i play from the heart and have a gentle spirit when i play. I guess you can say I did find time and it wasn't on the counter, Ive been holding it altogether. I just don't look for it anymore...
It's the last day of two weeks, I've been away from my home for about three weeks now. There have been more moments where the time feels like its standing still, yet I find myself looking at time like a pair of lost keys, I've kept a grasp on it for so long, but today I can't find it. It has seem to slip through my fingers, and I'm mentally reflecting on where i last left it. For so long i held onto it counting down my return. I must of set it down on the counter the day I left all my worries to chase after something I didn't know I was running for.
As We walk down life's path it's abrupt edges leaves people struck with fear. So naturally we glance back, we want to see who will be there incase we can't do it, incase we fail. Yet, as I looked back i saw no one, not a single soul I knew. And that's when self-realization hits as a traveler, when you come to except that in the physical state you are alone. the backbone to most travelers is left at home.feeling paralyzed you don't want to move. You have all the time in the world and your agenda has been set on fire like a Forrest. So when your friends are gone, when the family is absent, when your job means nothing, and your most valuable possession collect dust, the real challenge begins. The things that I thought made me, don't. The things I now realize I invest in way to much have been kicked from beneath me. You get to know yourself in a whole new way, and the process is beautiful. At first adapting to traveling was hard because i was trying to discover something that has already been discovered. until i realized backpacking isn't about discovering new land, or seeing new things, but its ultimately about discovering yourself through the must bizarre circumstances. Circumstance that are a rarity when at home.
Now that I've understood and taken in the processes of backpacking i really started understanding how I function. backpacking has evolved into one of my favorite things. What you learn is unbelievable, and The stories are endless.
Here's one...
Her name is Mrs. Victoria, she owns a piano shop. Luckily I was able to get there before she closed, but surprisingly I stayed for an hour after she closed talking with her about life and her adventures when she was younger. As I went back to mrs. Victoria's piano shop to play the next day, a man entered briefly after i started playing. He was talking to the owner, mrs. Victoria when he heard me playing one of the pianos in the corner. He approached me and introduces himself, he then ask to take a seat. I said yes of course, he tells me to continue playing what I was playing, so I do. Then he just freely starts playing along on the top half of the piano as I played the bottom. We performed a duet together, even drew a small crowd. I'm suppose to meet him tomorrow morning before I leave to play some more, maybe get some lessons. He said i play from the heart and have a gentle spirit when i play. I guess you can say I did find time and it wasn't on the counter, Ive been holding it altogether. I just don't look for it anymore...
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