Well, today is the day I have been anticipating for 3 years! (maybe even 3.5). Brian and I are leaving in 2 hours or so for the airport in St Louis. We fly from there to LAX and then to Auckland. Then we have a short (1 hour) flight to Blenheim where Marj will see our plane fly over the yurt and she will jump in her car and meet us at the airport, probably before we get to the gate!
This past week I have said goodbye to lots of people... Mom and Dad and Caitlin and Quinn and tons of friends and family. Plus Brian's family and St Louis folks. Over the weekend Brian's pirate band S.P.A.S.S. (sadpirates on myspace, check them out!) recorded tracks for an upcoming album. I played the role of kitchen wench and general exhasperated sigher and head-shaker. As ridiculous as the pirates can be... it is pretty impressive what they can do. I sure am proud of those little swash-bucklers. Also, it was lovely to have good friends and fun times just before we leave them all behind for new fun and friends.
Brian and I spent the rest of the week making and eating yummy food and running TONS of errands. Turns out we had a lot to do/get before we left. We are now the proud owners of GEAR! I never really thought I would be a gear gal, but I have to admit, I love having gear. Lots of fancy gear. Stay tuned for pictures of the gear in action.
We have been packing and repacking for about 3 days. We finally got it all where we want it last night around midnight. Also stay tuned for pictures of our luggage. A year's worth of stuff for 2 people requires quite a bit of luggage as you might imagine.
Our final errands this morning included writing down contact information for all concerned parties (moms and dads!), a goodwill drop, a post office run (washboard return: yarrrr! and sending my cell phone home), as well as spending some American currency on coffee.
Now we are getting ready to say a few more goodbyes and then hit the tarmac...and take off! I am ready.
Again, I want to thank everyone who is making this possible and easier and putting up with us just picking up and leaving for a year. THANK YOU! I love you and appreciate your support and well wishes! Keep them coming! My next post will be from New Zealand and should include some pictures and some answers to the FAQ from the last 3 years!
Much love--- Ashley in America.
1 comment:
For those checking this spot for news of arrival, I have heard from Ashley and they arrived safely and happily--sans most of their luggage. The first night (or two?) was spent in the van with borrowed clothes and blankets. She sounded well and happy and was raving about the beauty surrounding them. I'm sure she will be updating the blog very soon.
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