tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699766495162017042024-03-13T23:54:08.791-07:00Novalightning's Blognovalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-28019964164590614712017-02-18T14:06:00.003-08:002017-02-18T14:06:32.941-08:00Blueberry run + Long run<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5aUiHxa8ajo/WKjB0h_Mj1I/AAAAAAAARPc/Me-BgaHgahwHL1AAy3bBeslYrqyO0okIQCPcB/s1600/IMG_3419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5aUiHxa8ajo/WKjB0h_Mj1I/AAAAAAAARPc/Me-BgaHgahwHL1AAy3bBeslYrqyO0okIQCPcB/s200/IMG_3419.JPG" width="200" /></a>Last weekend Chelsea and I braved the weather and headed out to Ohaupo to participate in the first race in the 2017 Summer Series.<br />
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With a gentle fog settling over the countryside and excited running gathering the atmosphere was amazing. Being surrounded by like minded people and so much positivity is always a great feeling and a nice way to start the day. <br />
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As the race start approach the fog begun to lift to reveal the beautiful roads we would be running on. The goal was to run a gently 15km but with so many people around I was caught-up in the moment and started a little too fast. 5:40min/ks to fast. That speed hurt my endurance and by the 12km I was starting to hurt. I pushed on though and finished fast even running up the hill towards the finish.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zK_UZVa-zeg/WKjB0r8_MEI/AAAAAAAARPc/0FVik4Xa5t05NuAisWd0ky-soVzno3rCgCPcB/s1600/IMG_3440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zK_UZVa-zeg/WKjB0r8_MEI/AAAAAAAARPc/0FVik4Xa5t05NuAisWd0ky-soVzno3rCgCPcB/s200/IMG_3440.JPG" width="150" /></a>It felt great to be pounding the tarmac and good to get back into the race atmosphere. It was that night that I went home and looked into seriously booking the New Plymouth - Mountain to Surf Marathon.<br />
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I don't know if it's a good thing or not but I have signed up and am planning on running my first marathon for 2017 in two weeks time. <br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xDFuWbzM18E/WKjB0idFHZI/AAAAAAAARPc/Mj19r3_a1i4YhSs0AgLcn-Me200pBT0RwCPcB/s1600/IMG_3446.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xDFuWbzM18E/WKjB0idFHZI/AAAAAAAARPc/Mj19r3_a1i4YhSs0AgLcn-Me200pBT0RwCPcB/s320/IMG_3446.PNG" width="179" /></a><br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ9LIPaqLAU/WKjB0oaNrpI/AAAAAAAARPc/YQ31lCaUFPkzgZkz88b-wFwsqlLGjdItwCPcB/s1600/IMG_3447.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ9LIPaqLAU/WKjB0oaNrpI/AAAAAAAARPc/YQ31lCaUFPkzgZkz88b-wFwsqlLGjdItwCPcB/s320/IMG_3447.PNG" width="320" /></a>The training has been going really well. Each week I have been increasing the distance with my first long run of 27km being completed yesterday. It was tougher than a hobbits foot but I did it.<br />
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Easy week this weekend planned then marathon the following.novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-31029629577195943032017-02-09T02:35:00.000-08:002017-02-09T02:35:35.755-08:00200 Miles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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200 miles so far this year</div>
<br />novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-90220760559555200262017-02-09T02:32:00.001-08:002017-02-09T02:32:37.417-08:002017 Start of the year<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FanbBLkUbd4/WJxEgB_SZjI/AAAAAAAARFc/ojJ8GtM3xp0AL-8XLGDPBgV0HSGQdO1HwCPcB/s1600/IMG_3398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FanbBLkUbd4/WJxEgB_SZjI/AAAAAAAARFc/ojJ8GtM3xp0AL-8XLGDPBgV0HSGQdO1HwCPcB/s320/IMG_3398.JPG" width="320" /></a>Its interesting that the last time I made a blog entry it was October 2015. Now, well over 16 months later, I seem to be making the same post.<br />
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I started the year with a message from a good friend, Bridget, asking me if I would be interesting in completing the 2017 challenge. What is this you ask? Its pretty simple. Run 2017 miles in 2017. The idea was that Bridget and I would team up and complete the miles together. This was all the motivation I needed to get my lazy body off the couch and back onto the pavement. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTroS7bSDXY/WJxEx8mv4DI/AAAAAAAARFk/wlVzfSbET48fXUoXRKctj39nb7LZUpHEACPcB/s1600/IMG_3397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTroS7bSDXY/WJxEx8mv4DI/AAAAAAAARFk/wlVzfSbET48fXUoXRKctj39nb7LZUpHEACPcB/s200/IMG_3397.JPG" width="150" /></a>It has been a month since I have started the challenge and I am well into my miles. 229 miles to be exact. I feel better both emotionally and physically. However this is only possible because of my very understanding wife. Sometimes I wonder just how I got so lucky finding such a caring and understanding woman.<br />
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Last week we both completed the Mad Eye Moody 5k virtual run. It was such a rush. Chelsea ran her first ever 5ks and did it in a PB for her. I was so proud. I also did a PB but to be honest watching her finish was a bigger run.<br />
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This weekend is the Blueberry run and I am really looking forward to finishing that one. There are a couple of different marathons that I have my eyes on but I will keep you updated as the year goes by.<br />
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<br />novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-56788137268504788822015-10-25T17:18:00.000-07:002015-10-25T17:18:51.851-07:00Back on the running bandwagon<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been a long time since I even considered putting on the running shoes and starting to 'train' for something. Now I'd like to start with some witty comment like, "I thought it was about" or "I'd been waiting for the long weekend to start..." but the truth of the matter was it was is still is a struggle.</div>
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For a long time I have been sitting and eating and eating and sitting. I have had all the great intentions of running but have used every excuse under the sun... including the sun to not go out. I have done the occasional run and visit to the gym but nothing that eventuated into a regular schedule.</div>
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Well it's time for a change. With my pants getting tighter and my mind starting to feel down I had to do something about it. So yesterday I put on my shoes and headed out for what will be the first of many runs.</div>
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<b>I am determined to beat the Blerch.</b></div>
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<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0032/7882/products/blerch_magnet_big_large.png?v=1412813069" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0032/7882/products/blerch_magnet_big_large.png?v=1412813069" height="254" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Day One</b></div>
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7km in 41:14</div>
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avg 5:52</div>
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Total - 7km</div>
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="https://www.strava.com/activities/419700201/embed/98a5209b705c336872da7cbedea6a1a48253351f" width="590"></iframe>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.comHamilton, New Zealand-37.7870012 175.27925300000004-37.9888997 174.95515650000004 -37.5851027 175.60334950000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-84306179447158986852015-09-08T17:29:00.000-07:002015-09-08T17:29:07.113-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A Challenge, that was an understatement. This was by far one of the hardest things I have had to do so far in my running career.</div>
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The distance was not the challenge it was the amount of climbing that had to be done. over 800 vertical metres were scaled during the 42.2km, 6hr 15min race. </div>
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Yes it was a beautiful sight, yes it was rewarding, no I wouldn't do it again. It is four days after the race and I still do not have any desire to do it again.</div>
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Now don't get me wrong I'm not saying this race is bad I'm just saying that at the moment I am not physically prepared. I think I would have to do a whole lot more training before attempting this one.<br />
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Here is my video diary of the race.<br />
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novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-28764182179575109382015-09-08T14:00:00.003-07:002015-09-08T14:00:49.887-07:00Another Marathon DoneAfter my first effort running a marathon distance I believed that I could do it again. I decided to put in a decent amount of training and push myself. But have I bitten off more than I can chew?<br />
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I eagerly signed up for the Taupo Run Series which consisted of a half marathon and two full marathons. The Taupo marathon was the one that I was going to target as I thought that it would be a nice enough course and that I would be able to put in a great time. Turns out that I was a little wrong</div>
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The course was a very challenging one with more hills than I was expecting to encounter. </div>
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I pushed myself and hit that same point as I did in the first marathon. That 'I can't do, yes I can', 'I'm so happy, I'm so sad' emotional rollercoaster. </div>
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Anyway it's done now and I'm so proud of myself. My next challenge is this weekend when I have to run the kinloch marathon. One that I have done minimal training for. I'm really scared if I'm being him being honest with you. </div>
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novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-4543517924390117412015-03-14T01:44:00.000-07:002015-03-14T01:44:26.550-07:00Running Pays Off<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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March this year saw me competing in my first Half Marathon for the year. I'd had a good build up and was feeling pretty good about the run. As we were lined up at the start we even passed comment about regretting not entering the full.</div>
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The day was clear but we were expecting rain towards the end. The start of the run was quick. Now I don't mean a sprint pace but it was pushing along at about 5:20min/km. This is a very quick pace for me especially for a half marathon.</div>
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After about 10km my heart begun to lift as I was on track for a 2hr time. Up until this stage 2:19:34 was my fastest time. It was also about this time that the wind begun to pick up. The trouble with the wind wan't so much that it was there, but that it was a head wind and always a head wind. We were running towards the surf and by the end the rain had set in and wind was up to about 30km/hr. </div>
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As I neared the finish I kept an eye on the watch, 2:10:00 was creeping up very quickly and I was worried that I wasn't going to make it. The finish was painful. My legs were burning and anticipation mounting. Finally I spotted the finish and using every bit of every raced towards it. It was a huge relief to complete the half in 2:10:45 a new Personal Best.</div>
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<a href="http://tpks.ws/26Tt">Trainingpeaks.com</a> <a href="http://www.thetimingteam.co.nz/results/index.php?thread=1145753486" target="_blank">Mount to Surf</a></div>
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Now you would think that after a run like this rest would be high on the agenda. This was not to be for me. The Hamilton Roadrunners was hosting the last event in the Summer Series and I had already entered it. My legs were feeling ok so I decided that the 11km run was do able. More importantly for me it was do-able at a run. </div>
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Now that wasn't quite the highlight. There was also a spot-prize for the people that had entered all the events. Yep you can guess here this is going. I was the lucky winner. Such a huge rush. The prize, sponsored by House of Travel, $1500 travel voucher.</div>
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Needless to say - HAPPY - doesn't even come close to describing the elation I was feeling. Oh and to top it all off I found out this week that Chelsea is pregnant so baby two is on the way.</div>
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<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxdrzo2ZOJoQBF7DigLMqBrMUP6i6qJjl0aoTESNh3BwWIfLJ2K2vznXWnXYTMrhefiVk7q8jrG9O8NfkJ0rAFsUy8khm49w_x_ALtkyhVoaVpcT4mBsLau002BJiz4tqbmrRTxhfbTxb/s1600/264059_345338532224346_1613450351_n.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxdrzo2ZOJoQBF7DigLMqBrMUP6i6qJjl0aoTESNh3BwWIfLJ2K2vznXWnXYTMrhefiVk7q8jrG9O8NfkJ0rAFsUy8khm49w_x_ALtkyhVoaVpcT4mBsLau002BJiz4tqbmrRTxhfbTxb/s1600/264059_345338532224346_1613450351_n.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ai3PLaSYbr0%2FVQPt06uyYEI%2FAAAAAAAADvs%2FfgU06we6C6U%2Fs1600%2F264059_345338532224346_1613450351_n.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxdrzo2ZOJoQBF7DigLMqBrMUP6i6qJjl0aoTESNh3BwWIfLJ2K2vznXWnXYTMrhefiVk7q8jrG9O8NfkJ0rAFsUy8khm49w_x_ALtkyhVoaVpcT4mBsLau002BJiz4tqbmrRTxhfbTxb/s1600/264059_345338532224346_1613450351_n.png" -->novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-31534594214840252162015-03-05T00:16:00.001-08:002015-03-05T00:16:19.910-08:00School trip up a mountain<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4fKrsyLFH1CuaUZ49yuyUMiFOamHRBrPpDKeVeJz1JlkAoRIDqxZoO_NF55lDU-DmvvbyNaVB_bpajVCIQpzRMGZrAc7zPF-MeHj5dEsbBFyqqKEFILUt_sCKBi0PQnj4VyEPJOC_cxR/s640/blogger-image--1016378782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4fKrsyLFH1CuaUZ49yuyUMiFOamHRBrPpDKeVeJz1JlkAoRIDqxZoO_NF55lDU-DmvvbyNaVB_bpajVCIQpzRMGZrAc7zPF-MeHj5dEsbBFyqqKEFILUt_sCKBi0PQnj4VyEPJOC_cxR/s640/blogger-image--1016378782.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We did it. Climbing ruapane with my class was an amazing experience. Watching them move through the different stages is always interesting and how they respond to the challenges. There is always the students who they no they can't do it but keep on going. They have this hidden spark that keeps their fires burning even when they think they just can't go on. Today I watched as some of our fittest students opted out while others pushed through despite having rolled ankles. These moments always make me stop and take count of assumptions I may have made of people's characters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once we reached the peak we all sat down and had a moment to take in just how amazing our country is. Sitting 800m above sea eating your lunch looking out over rolling hills is always something magical and watching young people experience this awe is just as refreshing. I'm always glad that I can provide opportunities for students that they may never have had the opportunity to experience. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Personally today was a great walk. My heels held up well and the legs were able to take the hike. I was a little apprehensive about the walk, worried that my thighs might start to burn and make my run in the weekend harder than it needed to be. As it was the fitness held up and so did the legs. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The next mission is the half marathon this weekend. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQhp-evdXiDWZthEJRsQRDW9D0KXogN-uVHj8K0KHP_WbWouuFZ2MyRNBcqee0M9W_VJjpB-ZBPBc_Fz1FSWAjgOfzNGPtanBBoMuu7v8X2ssnxt0_bTelI6DtzgfAbXlCayQsA-Q4RgQ/s640/blogger-image--1176034993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQhp-evdXiDWZthEJRsQRDW9D0KXogN-uVHj8K0KHP_WbWouuFZ2MyRNBcqee0M9W_VJjpB-ZBPBc_Fz1FSWAjgOfzNGPtanBBoMuu7v8X2ssnxt0_bTelI6DtzgfAbXlCayQsA-Q4RgQ/s640/blogger-image--1176034993.jpg"></a></div><br></div>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-73051054105224370662015-03-04T00:04:00.001-08:002015-03-04T00:04:23.276-08:00Getting back into bloggingSo it has been a while, well actually a long time, since I have been blogging. I have been thinking about it lately and decided to try and start regularly recording my thoughts and experiences. There has been a lot of different things that have happened to me over the past year. Most of the highlights have been to do with my beautiful daughter and my achievements running<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5bW4beKSxfoL6eBdbVcwd9DjUDPf4Z4wGpS-2HnRSw26raQEDF300P1uKEtrNvpo_NbLCNcyDZezGtFfuQsp6wv51R1FWN61TEEW1UcIar1vd3wtLFIdHuaDZNvUqQ6GklPAN5BmTLUZ/s640/blogger-image--1269103640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5bW4beKSxfoL6eBdbVcwd9DjUDPf4Z4wGpS-2HnRSw26raQEDF300P1uKEtrNvpo_NbLCNcyDZezGtFfuQsp6wv51R1FWN61TEEW1UcIar1vd3wtLFIdHuaDZNvUqQ6GklPAN5BmTLUZ/s640/blogger-image--1269103640.jpg"></a> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwd7UVJpio-Pye4SwIOvkHDOIuX0ZEZEidnjp2XsitPqQPGMOQ-yJJWLeTBmBQCrfarb0GnNy0WgLUDZ1Ahd9fYd69d_4J9SWMSUcClnRumL4T-xnWNUhWb1uhD5y8ftzrlPo5hXrph5bx/s640/blogger-image-551489739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwd7UVJpio-Pye4SwIOvkHDOIuX0ZEZEidnjp2XsitPqQPGMOQ-yJJWLeTBmBQCrfarb0GnNy0WgLUDZ1Ahd9fYd69d_4J9SWMSUcClnRumL4T-xnWNUhWb1uhD5y8ftzrlPo5hXrph5bx/s640/blogger-image-551489739.jpg"></a> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOg-x2chIO1M0MiiO3_IOhNXQ70hyphenhyphenOY25ttscAWrElsW5WnH01aIC8Y-Y9XEpEhSa2mL9fC00QyDmSmNO53tBm-Wh8GTNsUhd1Bc6g2m-UuiGIgLYCujy0qqvw1NgeL5Xvg0yUPRgmQMee/s640/blogger-image-331063976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOg-x2chIO1M0MiiO3_IOhNXQ70hyphenhyphenOY25ttscAWrElsW5WnH01aIC8Y-Y9XEpEhSa2mL9fC00QyDmSmNO53tBm-Wh8GTNsUhd1Bc6g2m-UuiGIgLYCujy0qqvw1NgeL5Xvg0yUPRgmQMee/s640/blogger-image-331063976.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This year there are just as many different experiences on offer. We are heading to Australia in a couple of months for a friends wedding, I have a Mega in Christchurch later in the year as well as a handful of running events with the first being in just two days time. </div></div></div><br></div><div>My first run for the year was the Blueberry Fun Run in Ohaupo. It was a 15km run on a very beautiful day. I managed to complete the run in just over 1hr 40min. I'm quite happy with this time. The run this weekend is down in New Plymouth and is a half marathon. The training for it has gone well and I feel really good. I'd love to do it in under 2hr 20min but I'm not going to hold my breath. I enjoy running for myself not running for competition. </div><div><br></div><div>Tomorrow I'm heading up Pirongia with my class. Should be a great day for the class to bind and I look forward to watching them work together and building those relationships. Will post tomorrow with the outcome. </div><div><br></div>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-43124689157469541062014-10-30T01:25:00.002-07:002014-10-30T01:25:10.082-07:00Zombie Based LearningHave to look into this<br />
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http://www.edutopia.org/blog/zombie-based-learning-andrew-miller?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=blog-zombie-based-learning-linknovalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-78285814023972123472014-08-31T02:30:00.002-07:002014-08-31T02:30:18.783-07:00On the Running Band WagonIt has been a very long time since I have posted anything on my blog and yet a whole lot has happened. The biggest event and the one that I have been posting lots of is the birth of my beautiful daughter.<br />
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Now, it was at the end of last year that the father-in-law passed a comment about wanting to run a marathon as part of his bucket list. I wasn't that keen for a full marathon and suggested that we just started with a half.<br />
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Our sights were set for the Rotorua Half Marathon and the training begun. I had a little bit of trouble with knees but still get there in the end. 2hr 36min Not bad at all.<br />
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The next thing I knew was that Kevin had signed up for the Huntly Half the following weekend. There was no way that I was going to let him get one up on me so I had to enter it aswel. 2hr 26min. It was the first time that I have ever gone under 2hr 30min.<br />
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The next race we entered was the Trail Trilogy which was a 14km, 21km, and 29km race each a month apart.<br />
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This weekend is the Whangamata Race where I hope to get close to 2hr 20min.<br />
I then have the Hamilton Half 4 weeks later and the Queenstown full Marathon in November.<br />
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Will try and keep the blog posted with my thoughts and progress.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">31 August Run</td></tr>
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<br />novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-76443628831636315722013-11-29T16:36:00.001-08:002013-11-29T16:36:36.388-08:00Wedding slideshow<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ROUjPMMz9QI" width="480"></iframe>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-40177596043448521212013-11-29T15:32:00.002-08:002013-11-29T15:32:15.335-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-37841724696668589132013-10-22T02:00:00.001-07:002013-10-22T02:00:16.530-07:00A busy school holiday<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It took a week but the bathroom is now all back together. The plasterers have been and it's now ready for painting. I have organised for a guy to come and paint it as I'm just running out of time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yYVO-Ni7vwvUoXMI1aguMd2MP70OKi9CK5hmDOd5pAZKeFy21ZUIN6JAmSh9DK4yHzn15OI2DJnVORvTZFZwp65qfagFSqvJvY2TLJd3CqMe3VY9khaB-0ys8t5sQngWMNCH4M-VcTQ-/s640/blogger-image-10725188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yYVO-Ni7vwvUoXMI1aguMd2MP70OKi9CK5hmDOd5pAZKeFy21ZUIN6JAmSh9DK4yHzn15OI2DJnVORvTZFZwp65qfagFSqvJvY2TLJd3CqMe3VY9khaB-0ys8t5sQngWMNCH4M-VcTQ-/s640/blogger-image-10725188.jpg"></a></span><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yYVO-Ni7vwvUoXMI1aguMd2MP70OKi9CK5hmDOd5pAZKeFy21ZUIN6JAmSh9DK4yHzn15OI2DJnVORvTZFZwp65qfagFSqvJvY2TLJd3CqMe3VY9khaB-0ys8t5sQngWMNCH4M-VcTQ-/s640/blogger-image-10725188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8kU0W7HfMhV5Nt01-LAWXN6xjX5Z9qJueqLKDRSLAKPw4JuwXDyqN6jKsm8k7hM21616sPDYSMAvA5O3ZCqxubIf5MCLb7Epi64Loh22nJdezeniXz6tjP6ZTWSFjo_IWA9aiz7RhqqGy/s640/blogger-image--1686650688.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">I have also built a chicken coup. It is one of the first things that I full built and it's not to bad. The chickens don't seem to mind</div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj5arJdGw296AwvXnEL2aEhShJybZiOVmCsTV2k16yGesz5fjgb-aqYV4vMKbP0OcTiPhn4mpEp8liSKcS08hwAputngzOwgTSscVSvl4oC8Q6W64w0jySN2IoIEks8ZQO9Kc2XzcL0Tm/s640/blogger-image--178842317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj5arJdGw296AwvXnEL2aEhShJybZiOVmCsTV2k16yGesz5fjgb-aqYV4vMKbP0OcTiPhn4mpEp8liSKcS08hwAputngzOwgTSscVSvl4oC8Q6W64w0jySN2IoIEks8ZQO9Kc2XzcL0Tm/s640/blogger-image--178842317.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5WlF-bhhiVYA8C9I2xROScGtGYzNb-F9EZlOrbhQ3osHIQw9LwDs-2Y29olYaX3i5ahDBbSv9u9eyae0iM37PdlSX7X0Dg_AgsaGwsBZr5IyCZetghHrnnA-RUj83rwuTgXubwICTtIB/s640/blogger-image--406890321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5WlF-bhhiVYA8C9I2xROScGtGYzNb-F9EZlOrbhQ3osHIQw9LwDs-2Y29olYaX3i5ahDBbSv9u9eyae0iM37PdlSX7X0Dg_AgsaGwsBZr5IyCZetghHrnnA-RUj83rwuTgXubwICTtIB/s640/blogger-image--406890321.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div></div>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-39344238421358327822013-09-14T01:29:00.001-07:002013-09-14T01:31:00.588-07:00Bathroom renovationBeen a busy day with Kevin pulling apart the bathroom. Ended up spending all day ripping out the gib, roof, and shower. Had to get the plumber out to stopper the different taps. <div><br></div><div>Went to Bunnings to get all the different supplies and now we are just starting the slow process of rebuilding. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSu6amP9roNcVnMxiM-2a6PdmYJQdZ_DS56eqmyorg6qHt_op6KU-1qZ3n42GnI0zDJUS1gEtvjI81m0U1G2pkMV_ePnhccxTAHqzDKMTADOfbzA2KJYL1u2eYBwUreLP78rrEWswDvQki/s640/blogger-image-1082248198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSu6amP9roNcVnMxiM-2a6PdmYJQdZ_DS56eqmyorg6qHt_op6KU-1qZ3n42GnI0zDJUS1gEtvjI81m0U1G2pkMV_ePnhccxTAHqzDKMTADOfbzA2KJYL1u2eYBwUreLP78rrEWswDvQki/s640/blogger-image-1082248198.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SgEZYv99dFhc9TlHTe9sVoWhmuxLAZQjrFMwMYGBx8qU4AqD9pqOaKF7fQA5RoWFoUa8jmnOgbm7ZPzK-nOo_nbzfqhgEX7msdallXh1b2SXDtK8ai0VRm7qQBbhnt2vqkeXUgeMenxO/s640/blogger-image-2128749296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SgEZYv99dFhc9TlHTe9sVoWhmuxLAZQjrFMwMYGBx8qU4AqD9pqOaKF7fQA5RoWFoUa8jmnOgbm7ZPzK-nOo_nbzfqhgEX7msdallXh1b2SXDtK8ai0VRm7qQBbhnt2vqkeXUgeMenxO/s640/blogger-image-2128749296.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-73411816478699745292013-09-13T00:01:00.001-07:002013-09-14T01:30:20.617-07:00Bathroom renovation<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Started the bathroom renovation tonight. Fingers crossed that all goes well. I have needed to update the bathroom for a long time so it feels good to finally be getting around to it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Kevin is coming over early tomorrow to start help with the transformation. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkrZ5s-uQEJMCALW2p2s3kciWFKYxIWGjA1Uo38-PEmrWoeFjsmUeB17Li3-4M4VZuoD5xnWtPS2zjvqnyie5v3_tGZmUdb-X8xcmMAl3nODU3_aguJObCAXEFa6Xw4_b_Bv4MEUtm-Mj/s640/blogger-image-955585460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkrZ5s-uQEJMCALW2p2s3kciWFKYxIWGjA1Uo38-PEmrWoeFjsmUeB17Li3-4M4VZuoD5xnWtPS2zjvqnyie5v3_tGZmUdb-X8xcmMAl3nODU3_aguJObCAXEFa6Xw4_b_Bv4MEUtm-Mj/s640/blogger-image-955585460.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1PNEEchpKA02IcxN1tkX9iZDvjPTlrlALH7zmWOoC6l-E4SI9Pf2IpoQWwj6_u4gUU5zmT7NUrWcW6pUV8WoB7UICKDi_Z-EvdTDZREeYKPms6yTSP7NrqWl0OSpGLbSwrJGBhot2WtqC/s640/blogger-image-866042241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1PNEEchpKA02IcxN1tkX9iZDvjPTlrlALH7zmWOoC6l-E4SI9Pf2IpoQWwj6_u4gUU5zmT7NUrWcW6pUV8WoB7UICKDi_Z-EvdTDZREeYKPms6yTSP7NrqWl0OSpGLbSwrJGBhot2WtqC/s640/blogger-image-866042241.jpg"></a></div><br></div>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-51461714628073240542013-07-27T22:46:00.003-07:002013-07-27T22:57:35.496-07:00Trip to Samoa<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmUk6VfpLiwGte9dxvv7n9FcWq-q31l3EMDCzJ-94Wx_sVBuiFGHh9AYzNUeo_EmIVPbZ8LUNS36O7_tss9mDQrFtljBIpOk3vzby9OJYmOwAVYIhYi7WDOEJl-cqumJnztnGWgmmf6Tw/s640/blogger-image-430367463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmUk6VfpLiwGte9dxvv7n9FcWq-q31l3EMDCzJ-94Wx_sVBuiFGHh9AYzNUeo_EmIVPbZ8LUNS36O7_tss9mDQrFtljBIpOk3vzby9OJYmOwAVYIhYi7WDOEJl-cqumJnztnGWgmmf6Tw/s200/blogger-image-430367463.jpg" width="150" /></a>Well the day finally arrived when Chelsea and I head to Samoa. We had been waiting to go on a trip for a long time and the last couple of days really dragged.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqpqp2LwI7g4rkwzpa9WtY2_Fh5v0GxbUZMRMxLfjv70_Pmx6Se5VLn17KIV60yl-oL21HaAIwWcOuJAoiP4ylmNZ20S1fBhQlIVGHpVisxWGI2bKx-mcCzCTEY9T-CYZSzButeZYnw-J/s640/blogger-image-714656710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqpqp2LwI7g4rkwzpa9WtY2_Fh5v0GxbUZMRMxLfjv70_Pmx6Se5VLn17KIV60yl-oL21HaAIwWcOuJAoiP4ylmNZ20S1fBhQlIVGHpVisxWGI2bKx-mcCzCTEY9T-CYZSzButeZYnw-J/s200/blogger-image-714656710.jpg" width="150" /></a>We are sitting at gate 1 waiting for the call up. Chelsea is a little excited but also nervous, hoping she won't get sick while in Samoa. </div>
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It was a great flight with just a little bit of turbulence coming into Samoa. A great view out the window and the lightning flashed all around the cockpit.</div>
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Arrived at Coconuts. Tala was driver ...</div>
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It was a bit of a restless sleep for me as I was so hot and didn't drink enough on the plane. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWWWVte7_wVQm0-nnyBBJezqRVXUOc6gezIxUUmgYOjyzoDfPUnMhyphenhyphenLtLOVIRUOU046KCgKFZzDZYfOCIJhcPSrbh-ClRN0mjBfxz2HRUBxcuyY8Ii5q_JC2P3OqXMsI9zQBdCxKneJeCo/s640/blogger-image-1215774945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWWWVte7_wVQm0-nnyBBJezqRVXUOc6gezIxUUmgYOjyzoDfPUnMhyphenhyphenLtLOVIRUOU046KCgKFZzDZYfOCIJhcPSrbh-ClRN0mjBfxz2HRUBxcuyY8Ii5q_JC2P3OqXMsI9zQBdCxKneJeCo/s200/blogger-image-1215774945.jpg" width="150" /></a>The morning came around and I had to resort to a painkiller and back to bed. By 8.00 I was feeling better and we headed down for breakfast. Chelsea had the pancakes and I has the American full breakfast. Both were nice and a great way to start the day. </div>
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We headed to reception to finally check in and sign up for the meal deal. It gives us our breakfast, lunch & 3 course dinner as well as as much drink as we like for 250tala. </div>
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We didn't do a whole lot today but that's the whole point. </div>
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First day comes to an end and its been amazing. Great food and very friendly staff. Our dinner staff was full of wonderful ladies who kept our drinks fill and were always checking on us. One of them, Lei took the time to stop and chat with us. </div>
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A wonderful end to the first day</div>
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Day Two:</div>
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Today we felt like we better understood the running of things and we were going to 'do something' today. After another yummy breakfast; pancakes and waffles, we set ourselves up around the pool and read some of our book. A quick swim later and chat with the helpful poolside bar lady and we decided what our adventure for the day was-snorkelling. </div>
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The reception recommended a tour of the island taking us to the hole in the rock and a lovely snorkelling beach. They organised us a packed lunch and a whole lot of drinks as part of our lunch deal. The trip is costing 200tala for the both of us so I think that's a pretty good deal. </div>
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Returned to reception ready for our adventure and were told we would be joined by another family. Had a lovely chat with the receptionist while waiting for the family who were typically late. </div>
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Jack was our driver for the afternoon and he was great. He has a super sense of humour and an even better knowledge of the area. He told us all about the different areas, church's, schools, and rebuilding efforts. I was able to learn an lot from him. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPM1tfH2bb6EqMT6G1upX4zubMYcLoa56JjhmItF56Jsw2D5bV1TPdQuxxNATHm8QuAG_OVJ-uvfMESIBktYmjabybJGicHsIebxIHzAIawSJgnT-cbbiIn2vKdlrKXneOhyHnKKcUisP/s640/blogger-image--1084797965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPM1tfH2bb6EqMT6G1upX4zubMYcLoa56JjhmItF56Jsw2D5bV1TPdQuxxNATHm8QuAG_OVJ-uvfMESIBktYmjabybJGicHsIebxIHzAIawSJgnT-cbbiIn2vKdlrKXneOhyHnKKcUisP/s200/blogger-image--1084797965.jpg" width="150" /></a>We arrived at To Le Sua </div>
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It was a beautiful spot and we made the slow climb down into the water at the bottom. After about 30min we headed back up as we were getting hungry. </div>
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Another quick drive and we arrived at our final location for the day. It was a beautiful beach with the softest sand I've ever been on. </div>
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We ate our picnic lunch that was really nice under the shade and I enjoyed what was not my first or last Vailima for the trip. </div>
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Now that lunch has settled its time to hit the water and explore the marine life. </div>
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After a beautiful swim with some very colourful fish I headed back up the beach to Chelsea. Again we had a great chat with Jack and then headed home. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2twqJ9K4D0hqLGcrY0alEkDEpTgbVfHkT2augQ_jnys9GB6Tx78wLuZmnvRzqAxyVqdEvr4FGM7Q_6zQkmBFTR4sOqn4xo17K7ucmquZGqpLpYo5Dhq2s6qudoz09ruegDYAoSKptzwVm/s640/blogger-image--1199536670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2twqJ9K4D0hqLGcrY0alEkDEpTgbVfHkT2augQ_jnys9GB6Tx78wLuZmnvRzqAxyVqdEvr4FGM7Q_6zQkmBFTR4sOqn4xo17K7ucmquZGqpLpYo5Dhq2s6qudoz09ruegDYAoSKptzwVm/s200/blogger-image--1199536670.jpg" width="150" /></a>We were constantly reminded of many beach movies with huge coconut trees growing everywhere. It was a great day wonderful way of seeing the sights of Samoa. 200tala well spent. </div>
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Ended the day with another wonderful dinner and even tried the 'captapult' cocktail. Boy did it launch me into a great night. I had NZ steak for dinner and it was amazing. Mixed with a few more Vailima and we had another perfect night. </div>
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Day Three:</div>
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Today's plan is to relax and have a spa so that's exactly what we did. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFpWBxv3sxghfnbj8LPawSg_NsNvjiBBRgi18XnBh-F9FHkECkVz7scRCvJTzBLJ1tDpRmJelF39lXLnTtIVGwMU7OUEyy1WNtQphbGcBIpTykxCYO3VIYXnDM_xpYGT7PtG7UsTBHE1T/s640/blogger-image--2137292347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFpWBxv3sxghfnbj8LPawSg_NsNvjiBBRgi18XnBh-F9FHkECkVz7scRCvJTzBLJ1tDpRmJelF39lXLnTtIVGwMU7OUEyy1WNtQphbGcBIpTykxCYO3VIYXnDM_xpYGT7PtG7UsTBHE1T/s200/blogger-image--2137292347.jpg" width="200" /></a>Had a little bit of a sleep in before heading down for waffles. Popped into 'The Spa' and booked in for 2:00. We headed back to the pool where I finished my book and soaked up some more sun. </div>
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Looking forward to 5:00 when happy hour starts at the 'Three Stools Bar'. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdYSIwj3aD6iZR1PUk57L_zyaVMlzeWh1C3IodRzHSAigZh8CfyYgTBiWB_RZgOqEStRpMZmd0yQ9N-IvsnqQCqk-qxRckv2MJzsNybZiuZLNjVtrdYM_97e3frLu7aSeLK11qyYMIFHN/s640/blogger-image-23215569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdYSIwj3aD6iZR1PUk57L_zyaVMlzeWh1C3IodRzHSAigZh8CfyYgTBiWB_RZgOqEStRpMZmd0yQ9N-IvsnqQCqk-qxRckv2MJzsNybZiuZLNjVtrdYM_97e3frLu7aSeLK11qyYMIFHN/s200/blogger-image-23215569.jpg" width="150" /></a>We had another wonderful lunch and headed to our spa treatment. Wow it was amazing. A beautiful salon and calming atmosphere soon had Chelsea and I on the edge of sleep. Really enjoyed the back, neck, head and arm massage came out very relaxed and feeling good. </div>
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Headed out for another snorkel and another Vailima. 5:00 rolled around and we headed to the bar for happy hour. Chelsea enjoys her Vanuatu virgin while I keep the Vailima flowing. </div>
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I think that the staff now know to keep my drink fill as I get halfway through a Vailima and they come and fill it back up. Endless sun and beer, what a great place. </div>
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Day Four:</div>
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Today we collected our car and well that's about where the fun ended. To cut a very long story short, through a lack of communication we didn't know to pick up our ferry tickets the night we arrived and Samoa Scenic Tours cancelled our car transfer. </div>
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We spent a long day travelling trying to locate our tickets and eventually ended up at Aggies Beach Resort. The rep there put me on the phone with the manager who was very apologetic and informed me of the new arrangements. SST had booked us to seats on the 2:00 ferry. They would pay for a car hire on Savii and had book the return car hire aswel. It felt good to get all that sorted but had put a little dampener on the trip and made me get a restless sleep. </div>
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Day Five:</div>
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Woke up pretty early today as I wanted to get all the tickets and stuff sorted. Packed up our room and headed down for our last breakfast. Stuck with what I knew and got the pancakes again. I will definitely miss the friendly faces and great food. After breakfast we sat in the reading room to finish off our books. Check out we quick and easy and the staff were so nice they forgot to charge us for the 'meal deal'. I'm an honest man and after the 2,000 tala was added to the bill it was settled and we headed for the ferry. Looking forward to heading back to Coconuts Beach Resort and getting our complementary upgrade and 20%off next time we visit. </div>
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We arrived with plenty of time at the ferry 11:00 as we were told that at 12 we would meet a person with our tickets. 12 rolled by and with me getting a little stressed again we decided to head back to Aggies where Samoan Scenic Tours is based. The guy there was super helpful handing us our return tickets and ensuring that we were looked after. </div>
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Dramas over and when our rental car was picked up I was told that because we returned the car 2 days early that his manager said to email them and discuss a refund. Looks like everything is working out. I love karma. </div>
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The trip over on the ferry was let's just say long. It was a case of first on first seated. We didn't know this and Chelsea was lucky enough that someone moved over for her to sit down. The view back to Upolulu was impressive as we slowly made our way to Savaii. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JQXBTNJCV6H-eQY2ENJUz6ts_GyH_EY7vOQBU4QHYW-rpI-TTsMtNCnBuLYdW10InyRd_8KR4j7jJX7ThfWoI31UJkz5tUnjSNjl_hyUWR5B0D-Tk6crG7A5vMZOhFPyk70wr4iBQtxt/s640/blogger-image-82487399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JQXBTNJCV6H-eQY2ENJUz6ts_GyH_EY7vOQBU4QHYW-rpI-TTsMtNCnBuLYdW10InyRd_8KR4j7jJX7ThfWoI31UJkz5tUnjSNjl_hyUWR5B0D-Tk6crG7A5vMZOhFPyk70wr4iBQtxt/s320/blogger-image-82487399.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I got talking with the people around me who were from Australia and New Zealand. Seems like everyone we meet is from oz or NZ. Is anyone actually Samoan?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYeDvH0Xx500JdoPYMHhRkQiDNTCz6YHljuBgQzdvOuY0R-wWUWcD66FdDE_EE_IpUXX95zsq6WCA0jAFjyGjuBsFkL6t42GoLqka-_lLSBjFioviIkkGrSIk_pB0BMvhzBRULRo7OGoCp/s640/blogger-image-201497770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYeDvH0Xx500JdoPYMHhRkQiDNTCz6YHljuBgQzdvOuY0R-wWUWcD66FdDE_EE_IpUXX95zsq6WCA0jAFjyGjuBsFkL6t42GoLqka-_lLSBjFioviIkkGrSIk_pB0BMvhzBRULRo7OGoCp/s200/blogger-image-201497770.jpg" width="150" /></a>2 hours it took to cross to Savaii. A long time for Chelsea and her small bladder. </div>
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We managed to pick up the car easily and there was no dramas on that front. It was a beautiful drive on very good roads (a change from Upolulu). Before we knew it We arrived at Stevenson's @ Manese</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHzAs9xaz0wS-RcmMDoMNCbmlTFtM7DrWiYwwt99IIRpyWAZlvNqVzEUoMQ0OKSVUb8Ri880QUOhLO6ckeI1v0CWyK8xX8zlYW0b_c-9h5giYfe-rMEz5cnnwV5EW7VWB_FNnjyc_h8fI/s640/blogger-image--1112916169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHzAs9xaz0wS-RcmMDoMNCbmlTFtM7DrWiYwwt99IIRpyWAZlvNqVzEUoMQ0OKSVUb8Ri880QUOhLO6ckeI1v0CWyK8xX8zlYW0b_c-9h5giYfe-rMEz5cnnwV5EW7VWB_FNnjyc_h8fI/s640/blogger-image--1112916169.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2ks8S7fJbksVXFwE4kTOq10KozqDa9oItvq8FgAtHYSdQOatvYLKuNW70kpNcrMTOY1Mv3zVS8Ar9ffCblN9nlrKIsuouHyS0Hcgy0sCvTmPB2nkRJ1_9VT4jqSHp3XRxcq48hd28h05/s640/blogger-image-1352056922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2ks8S7fJbksVXFwE4kTOq10KozqDa9oItvq8FgAtHYSdQOatvYLKuNW70kpNcrMTOY1Mv3zVS8Ar9ffCblN9nlrKIsuouHyS0Hcgy0sCvTmPB2nkRJ1_9VT4jqSHp3XRxcq48hd28h05/s320/blogger-image-1352056922.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYegRHn5YvcPigfUoFg4M-EMmVXOCpSIn-i_MfwrNHGrMsA781_c5yWbzKGhlbA5Cc4IUWMCgUKDK4RF9JDnnBjDPjgtujSDPAlvWvt8Ay4X9sefVod8JUjuDiFN9t_3ylUhAly8DtKFd-/s640/blogger-image-1564153789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYegRHn5YvcPigfUoFg4M-EMmVXOCpSIn-i_MfwrNHGrMsA781_c5yWbzKGhlbA5Cc4IUWMCgUKDK4RF9JDnnBjDPjgtujSDPAlvWvt8Ay4X9sefVod8JUjuDiFN9t_3ylUhAly8DtKFd-/s320/blogger-image-1564153789.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Day Six: </div>
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Today I headed up Savii to the cater rim for an amazing view aswel as collecting the required info for an Earthcache. It was an interesting drive and ill never complain about NZ roads again. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiG36MjRw0V1uWdh4TtWp4dB-pvmDlAqK1cbaySEVgVafBeOrEC2jcFUAFsoYxT4JACegN9CJX2T2hrfZz38yqZCLEiuDjrIx0d4JO9Vi-mFJbHaEeC0jqBh242fOlK9IMP72cyfQ8vIXH/s640/blogger-image-680597397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiG36MjRw0V1uWdh4TtWp4dB-pvmDlAqK1cbaySEVgVafBeOrEC2jcFUAFsoYxT4JACegN9CJX2T2hrfZz38yqZCLEiuDjrIx0d4JO9Vi-mFJbHaEeC0jqBh242fOlK9IMP72cyfQ8vIXH/s200/blogger-image-680597397.jpg" width="200" /></a>On the way down I was intercepted by a local who claimed to be the caretaker of the land. He said that I was up very early to which I told him he was just late. It coste 20tala which I didn't really mind as it was for a cache and I hope for the area </div>
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I returned to the fale at 9:30 to find Chelsea relaxing in the sun. We gathered up our stuff and headed to explore the lava field and swim with the turtles. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQIqRxuZpVCVB2FgBXeuH4c6Qw0PgFvwkqz4p6Ni9zHTz5YV9xI6XqBF0FH94wlf899bsR7PMFUcbAD7RdQSwx9DaB3c5xqHdyzSbItVIOPUpyX88-sMgLJsHSvjNo4d2TwnIqoAmyMhg/s640/blogger-image-590362131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQIqRxuZpVCVB2FgBXeuH4c6Qw0PgFvwkqz4p6Ni9zHTz5YV9xI6XqBF0FH94wlf899bsR7PMFUcbAD7RdQSwx9DaB3c5xqHdyzSbItVIOPUpyX88-sMgLJsHSvjNo4d2TwnIqoAmyMhg/s200/blogger-image-590362131.jpg" width="150" /></a>Our first stop was the lava field and they were very impressive. The different textures and directions the lava took was thought provoking. We couldn't help but make comparisons to custard or heated milk. The Virgins Grave was to be unimpressive. We didn't really understand the location as the name doesn't indicate what was there. However the church and fale were remarkable. Looking at how the lava flowed into the church with its thickness and texture was memorable.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDLlGZpLioMmh2FZgbAtSm2enSqss61Wp0S7c9b11_spmO4s8IcTlpDGS4jCR1_jyOtr1AnnobTle54myIyYEO5a9nypTNwauI-aUMDyC7fot9-oDtXCHgR8vVXKaPt2IMNEOJT1ijt9m/s640/blogger-image--1708231305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDLlGZpLioMmh2FZgbAtSm2enSqss61Wp0S7c9b11_spmO4s8IcTlpDGS4jCR1_jyOtr1AnnobTle54myIyYEO5a9nypTNwauI-aUMDyC7fot9-oDtXCHgR8vVXKaPt2IMNEOJT1ijt9m/s200/blogger-image--1708231305.jpg" width="150" /></a>After the church we went out to a fale that was constructed on the lava flow. Sitting amongst the vastness and looking at the plants struggling to grow in this desolate wilderness was sombering. We often complain about the position we find our lives in and yet these people have chosen to return to their land, which is infertile, because its better than any other option<br />
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Total cost 5tala each.<br />
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Our next stop was to be the highlight of the day. Despite its lack of signage and look of organisation the 'swimming turtles' were amazing. Now it's another case of its not what the sign says. What it should say is "swim with the turtles-7tala" or something similar. </div>
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We ended up following a dusty road for about 800m before we came to a sign pointing is into the parking spot. The lady's were very manor of fact saying it would cost 7tala each and after we paid simply saying "follow path"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPA7iEeusQqwEoQKDIFF40oid_pp7H9wzOfYkabBFk_WvxjrrGeo5EoNuN7rg4M4mUG6hT6V7YufReXIhqwLDdbp6f7zvrQdk8Hqk5itg1eK9_gBCQcQb_QSaYW_WrqdOZKw5sQNZuRw1G/s640/blogger-image--1840177258.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/AVvXsEiPA7iEeusQqwEoQKDIFF40oid_pp7H9wzOfYkabBFk_WvxjrrGeo5EoNuN7rg4M4mUG6hT6V7YufReXIhqwLDdbp6f7zvrQdk8Hqk5itg1eK9_gBCQcQb_QSaYW_WrqdOZKw5sQNZuRw1G/s320/blogger-image--1840177258.jpg" width="320" /></a>There was another family already there with their taxi driver who was more help telling us about the turtles and that we were able to swim with them. </div>
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It's hard to put into works how cool it was holding, touching, & patting these beautifully peaceful creatures. </div>
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And all this done before lunch. </div>
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We headed back to our resort for lunch and to lie on the beach, snorkel, and relax. It has been a really nice time at Stevenson's and we will do it again next time. </div>
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Day Seven:</div>
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Our last day of what has been a long and relaxing holiday. We have made an early start to the day so that we have plenty of time to get around the island to see the blowhole and waterfall into the ocean. Apparently there are only a handful of waterfalls in the world that go directly into the sea. </div>
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We have enjoyed our stay at Stevenson's and would come back again but only for a couple of nights. The accommodation is very beautiful on the waters edge and we enjoyed the sound of the water lapping at our door. The beds were a little less impressive with a few finer details letting the experience down. This is a very quiet resort where relaxing was easy to do. The beaches were soft and white with a huge amount of coral. </div>
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Seven days away from home and we feel relaxed but are missing our family and pets</div>
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<br />novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-54037093562644683972013-07-11T03:05:00.001-07:002013-07-11T03:05:32.930-07:00novalightning's photostream<div style="padding: 0; overflow: hidden; margin: 0; width: 500px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/9197436123/in/photostream/" title="Hospital" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2809/9197436123_b8759b743d_s.jpg" alt="Hospital" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/9183181324/in/photostream/" title="Entry" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5535/9183181324_cacb9eafa6_s.jpg" alt="Entry" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/9160607577/in/photostream/" title="Bear pickings" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5550/9160607577_65cf8dd915_s.jpg" alt="Bear pickings" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/9020063023/in/photostream/" title="Shuttle what?" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7423/9020063023_b23abaef65_s.jpg" alt="Shuttle what?" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8896730238/in/photostream/" title="Hoop in the cloud" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3728/8896730238_d3fd5cd40c_s.jpg" alt="Hoop in the cloud" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8837912530/in/photostream/" title="Mmm so good" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2882/8837912530_985b1df2f6_s.jpg" alt="Mmm so good" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8837911608/in/photostream/" title="Ready to cook" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7342/8837911608_0884d2d945_s.jpg" alt="Ready to cook" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8837910676/in/photostream/" title="Ready to cook" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7338/8837910676_8df2e28c38_s.jpg" alt="Ready to cook" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8837909576/in/photostream/" title="All the ingredients" style="display: block; 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padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5346/8789533263_11c096f2a6_s.jpg" alt="Double sun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8789531523/in/photostream/" title="Rainbow at netball" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7458/8789531523_8d38ac99a7_s.jpg" alt="Rainbow at netball" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8771490491/in/photostream/" title="Kumara in water" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8413/8771490491_e32287bb08_s.jpg" alt="Kumara in water" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8769788199/in/photostream/" title="Colours of autum" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7387/8769788199_7e7c3548f4_s.jpg" alt="Colours of autum" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8665332560/in/photostream/" title="Otago train" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8266/8665332560_fcb45ee89a_s.jpg" alt="Otago train" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8664232021/in/photostream/" title="Otago Train" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8257/8664232021_63bda6f673_s.jpg" alt="Otago Train" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8608893336/in/photostream/" title="Easter fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8608893336_38ea9c71ff_s.jpg" alt="Easter fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8607786497/in/photostream/" title="Easter fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8108/8607786497_a313883ab0_s.jpg" alt="Easter fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8607786021/in/photostream/" title="Easter fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8524/8607786021_feab112194_s.jpg" alt="Easter fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8607785657/in/photostream/" title="Easter fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8121/8607785657_ace4efd7e3_s.jpg" alt="Easter fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8608891774/in/photostream/" title="Easter fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8257/8608891774_42507e6b9f_s.jpg" alt="Easter fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8608891446/in/photostream/" title="Easter fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8608891446_4f25ee1808_s.jpg" alt="Easter fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8608891010/in/photostream/" title="Easter fun" style="display: block; padding: 0 0 10px 0; width: 75px; height: 75px; float: left;"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8608891010_9cd35b5bb1_s.jpg" alt="Easter fun" style="border:none; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 75px; height: 75px;"/></a><br clear="all"/></div><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px"><p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/">novalightning's photostream</a> on Flickr.</p></div>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-9449930172294392032013-06-12T16:38:00.001-07:002013-06-13T00:14:49.404-07:00Little Willies' Blog: 12 week scanFinally I get to announce to the world my amazing news. It has been one of the biggest secrets that I've had to keep and I've kept it so long.<br />
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8 Weeks ago we found out that Chelsea is Pregnant... Can you believe it... I couldn't at first. So much has happened and changed that I have wanted to share so I decided to start a blog for 'Little Willie'. I managed to record just about every major even that has happened so far and I'm looking forward to recording more.<br />
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Below is the link to the latest post.<br />
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<a href="http://littlewilliesblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/12-week-scan.html?spref=bl">Little Willies' Blog: 12 week scan</a>:<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UfbfTThk2l_xHNi0sxj1y3qQRJpD5YiPPxUfzZOQI_Q1ihPO6oY1LKNljHngkE2fUv77-TdXfKcN-kJDtGGR_FbygXz3eb6YsdDVD0tk8YRAa8UnssAJNLsmxpz9fVbiM80Ag5MmWSQ2/s320/Capture8.PNG" /><br />
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This video makes me smile every time I see it. It is my mum to a T. She is super excited about being a Granny.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/i4_y1tsXUEs" width="560"></iframe>novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-19059449348984179032013-06-02T01:28:00.000-07:002013-06-02T01:28:43.174-07:00Back to geocaching<br />
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It has been a very long time since I've been out geocaching and the other day Steve invited me along on a hiking trip. I thought about it and with me stopping squash and been staying at home I decided I deserved a day geocaching.</div>
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I checked the statistics part of my profile and it turns out that in the past 2 months I've only found 2 caches. This is a problem. Normally I find about 60 a months. Time to get back into it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9jTlCY44gv3dmLUAisJKwIw0tDioBediVSar_fFU9dAr9igGIiIdoANoi8mB3Y8U4NHY1EPcCete224qctc1slPOAhTKL4eeGMuS8TXHDxhSY-XGnpG_GlPwftlTnJ7Rw2Ylu04BjNZe/s640/blogger-image--319472008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9jTlCY44gv3dmLUAisJKwIw0tDioBediVSar_fFU9dAr9igGIiIdoANoi8mB3Y8U4NHY1EPcCete224qctc1slPOAhTKL4eeGMuS8TXHDxhSY-XGnpG_GlPwftlTnJ7Rw2Ylu04BjNZe/s200/blogger-image--319472008.jpg" width="150" /></a>5:00 and the alarm ripped me out of a deep sleep. Thats the first sign that its caching time. I struggle out of bed and collect my backs and lunch that I prepared last night. With the car loaded up I head to Steves for a big day caching. It was a quick trip up to Auckland and great to catch up with a good friend. Almost at the car park we came across a tree fall. Steve and I got out of the car and quickly cleared a way past.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfbHncjgjv9qqnOCb3IiXAgncipWfcy_DloLsT7dJJ2tPYpXx4SUJK-G6vJScmZ8MjFeOb2-jq326MWIg-utop0GRY61wrh_t39Qiagbta7eflpJtbUQ9pXDL5aJbF2rIvP1aYc8th4STS/s640/blogger-image-588171308.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/AVvXsEgfbHncjgjv9qqnOCb3IiXAgncipWfcy_DloLsT7dJJ2tPYpXx4SUJK-G6vJScmZ8MjFeOb2-jq326MWIg-utop0GRY61wrh_t39Qiagbta7eflpJtbUQ9pXDL5aJbF2rIvP1aYc8th4STS/s320/blogger-image-588171308.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHLsSY1aVXwcLof1MlR1kv3RCAW7IUxjVSFgQJZyjIaecQu44DD1TYRdHwdK-hj-ZQiqCEtUsvD4U8Slw6Z-VhF2ioWTOtaQoKlpBrdT8Pdbu4d2xYyEoaRgeNKqj4K8aVV4hrhGUcfIA/s640/blogger-image--1392223731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHLsSY1aVXwcLof1MlR1kv3RCAW7IUxjVSFgQJZyjIaecQu44DD1TYRdHwdK-hj-ZQiqCEtUsvD4U8Slw6Z-VhF2ioWTOtaQoKlpBrdT8Pdbu4d2xYyEoaRgeNKqj4K8aVV4hrhGUcfIA/s320/blogger-image--1392223731.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We Started our walk and Were greeted with a beautiful sunrise over one of the dams in the area. It was a good walk and felt great to be back out in the wilderness. We found all the caches quickly and even a couple that were huge. Had a really great day and am thinking about my next tramp already.</div>
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Good to be back on the caching wagon.</div>
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So as a quick recap I went out caching in Hamilton today to collect all the new caches. You know its caching in winter wen you are ankle deep in water and still have a smile on your face.</div>
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novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-25369054329442755012013-05-30T02:13:00.002-07:002013-05-30T02:16:11.805-07:00Diary of a Wimpy Teacher<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxvvkFqKjCoe8nkekuJaNK8tuZng_JNCyS73O205b9UkREMceAI-rx2zE1y2-6mJmkMbVImWV_7FTOC0Z1G0Q5Ob7cQBvJ_058LaXpBPxLsq1EwyAc7tbeZjIK6fn5WE4qTX38-DHdRZjO/s1600/avatar_large_1369905069_5628177323378623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxvvkFqKjCoe8nkekuJaNK8tuZng_JNCyS73O205b9UkREMceAI-rx2zE1y2-6mJmkMbVImWV_7FTOC0Z1G0Q5Ob7cQBvJ_058LaXpBPxLsq1EwyAc7tbeZjIK6fn5WE4qTX38-DHdRZjO/s640/avatar_large_1369905069_5628177323378623.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-8398136275838659122013-05-18T04:07:00.000-07:002013-05-18T04:07:01.309-07:00Samoa HolidayIt was always planned that Chelsea and I would go on holiday this year but the location was always up in the air. We planned on going to Dubai then the UK. As it turns out plans change and our decision was kind of made for us, but thats a whole other story.<br />
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We had been looking on the website Teacherexpress.co.nz at a couple of different locations and decided that Rarotonga was going to be our destination of choice. Before booking and paying for the flights I decided that it would be best to head into <a href="http://www.flightcentre.co.nz/" target="_blank">Flight Centre</a> and compare prices.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMIDPKDlsQK7d3Y2-dyHUBilxJD6JuIkESsajepNDDMDM8A2NOeycsucsMXR-gzxL5leXX3PtO4bipU7rv_nj4drt-mHuJ6I_fghBLn2q_MDR5zjxAXOAptJVyDiiMRRsBd3hY915NhKx/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMIDPKDlsQK7d3Y2-dyHUBilxJD6JuIkESsajepNDDMDM8A2NOeycsucsMXR-gzxL5leXX3PtO4bipU7rv_nj4drt-mHuJ6I_fghBLn2q_MDR5zjxAXOAptJVyDiiMRRsBd3hY915NhKx/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a>After spending a couple of hours talking with the agent we soon realised that finding accommodation was going to be the challenge. After the cyclone that hit the islands earlier in the year there is limited resorts and with us wanting to travel in the school holidays the resorts are very full.<br />
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We had crossed off Raro, Vanuatu, Fiji, and Niue which left us Samoa. With fingers crossed we left the travel agent to sort out the details while we did some retail shopping.<br />
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Upon return to the Flight Centre we were greeted with good news. She had worked around our dates and managed to locate flights and accommodation in Samoa. You Beauty. We are flying out on the 20th staying 7 days. We are staying on both islands - Apia and Savaii.<br />
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We are going to stay at the <a href="http://www.cbcsamoa.com/" target="_blank">Coconut Resort</a> for 5 nights in the treehouse Suite, and <a href="http://www.stevensonsatmanase.com/" target="_blank">Stevens at Manase</a> in the Euro Fales. Both places look really nice and I know we are going to have a great time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7MYmV-czPI0mgzwYfT8zf_4t7lS7a1yLhqxSwyfVPfP3cbaBefFSFyYY5JLOpfkXXrrPSxkR-bLzL9ac9surbd0zU5Uxk8aT8xupre3XPI7nKlFLauhNqT2GWRaSjbOT_QkksBD-W7K5/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-18+at+11.00.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7MYmV-czPI0mgzwYfT8zf_4t7lS7a1yLhqxSwyfVPfP3cbaBefFSFyYY5JLOpfkXXrrPSxkR-bLzL9ac9surbd0zU5Uxk8aT8xupre3XPI7nKlFLauhNqT2GWRaSjbOT_QkksBD-W7K5/s200/Screen+Shot+2013-05-18+at+11.00.12+PM.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Treehouse Suite</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBETrYfWkEhgXtTrcqcz5yND47461_PzGyv4pUC9hcZInX_jOtlCpAk4JEdHKJSEPmY564W0tRVBdLh6XeU9kX9sBujtbp85GFgf9LJkv5-yrpVvSopuuSfynIwitV0L25S9ONLPBUAW0/s200/Screen+Shot+2013-05-18+at+11.00.53+PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Euro Vila</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBETrYfWkEhgXtTrcqcz5yND47461_PzGyv4pUC9hcZInX_jOtlCpAk4JEdHKJSEPmY564W0tRVBdLh6XeU9kX9sBujtbp85GFgf9LJkv5-yrpVvSopuuSfynIwitV0L25S9ONLPBUAW0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-18+at+11.00.53+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7MYmV-czPI0mgzwYfT8zf_4t7lS7a1yLhqxSwyfVPfP3cbaBefFSFyYY5JLOpfkXXrrPSxkR-bLzL9ac9surbd0zU5Uxk8aT8xupre3XPI7nKlFLauhNqT2GWRaSjbOT_QkksBD-W7K5/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-18+at+11.00.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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We paid for most of the trip today and have to go in and pay the last little bit by Friday. We are also wanting to get a rental car while there and also looking at getting some meal deals to try and save some money.<br />
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I've been to Samoa before and thought that it was a really lovely place. I'm looking forward to showing Chelsea around and getting to explore the island of Savaii, its suppose to be amazing.novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-23300301622693291582013-05-04T22:39:00.001-07:002013-05-05T00:24:46.787-07:00Rotorua MarathonIt's hard to believe that it has been a year since I competed in my first running event.<br />
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A couple of months ago I was talking with Chelsea about starting to run again and she passed a comment about Eliza wanting to run a half marathon. I had just received an email reminding me to enter the Rotorua Marathon so suggested that Eliza start with the 1/4 (10km) marathon in Rotorua. Long story short Chelsea and I were signed up.<br />
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Before I knew it it was the week on the 1/4 marathon and I had done zero training. The wednesday before the run I decided to dust off the running shoes and see just how much fitness I had lost. I headed out the door for a gentle run. I completed 6km in a little over 40min and felt good. Thursday, 2 days before the run, I headed out the door and again completed the 6km but in just under 40min. I felt good about my level of fitness and decided that if I could finish the 1/4 marathon in about one hour or at least under 1 hr 10min I would be very happy, especially because that was my time last year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06J1gbNUu5tucKybCp85IPBS5yBFfmhXFgVfOs88FRT3JUJTm3VS8FttTZFr1MP9rnP8EptvCeix1HpNjQgIH2rWGjldqmgMJlEI8iJuCMtYQrvlrTxGC4GsKoW9I0R8GG_jtVerysq5U/s640/blogger-image--2087336810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06J1gbNUu5tucKybCp85IPBS5yBFfmhXFgVfOs88FRT3JUJTm3VS8FttTZFr1MP9rnP8EptvCeix1HpNjQgIH2rWGjldqmgMJlEI8iJuCMtYQrvlrTxGC4GsKoW9I0R8GG_jtVerysq5U/s320/blogger-image--2087336810.jpg" width="240" /></a>Friday arrived and it was hard work getting out of bed. Eliza and Karl turned up just after 7am and we all piled into the car and headed for Rotorua. On the drive south we were fill of confidence and had our target times. <br />
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The closer to Rotorua I got the more the nerves increased.<br />
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We watched the marathon runners start and then it was our turn. Lining up Eliza and I wished each other luck and waited for the gun to sound. Chelsea was at the back ready for a fast walk as she wasn't feeling to well.<br />
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The start was the same as last year. Slow and annoying. There were walkers that had positioned themselves at the start of the race and it took a while to get through them and actually start the run. Once I was into my stride I found it easy as I knew what to expect. Each corner wasn't new and running towards the finish was a great feeling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Tf2Vir67Yp4wYWFfPUvofpCbtPyo44z0izi3Q7zGuOlHRiPJhVUMrTqb08jl4wKpgtGCkLX1PHZDoTnujvSZIhsdspfBizeDB4l_W_Jad0bcss10J2cQtLNpko8T3UQKBSD3y-PsBX-t/s640/blogger-image--224686013.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/AVvXsEj9Tf2Vir67Yp4wYWFfPUvofpCbtPyo44z0izi3Q7zGuOlHRiPJhVUMrTqb08jl4wKpgtGCkLX1PHZDoTnujvSZIhsdspfBizeDB4l_W_Jad0bcss10J2cQtLNpko8T3UQKBSD3y-PsBX-t/s320/blogger-image--224686013.jpg" width="240" /></a>I wasn't sure how good my time was until I saw the clock above the line. 1:03:57. Not a bad mat time at all. Race time was 1:01:23. Very Happy.<br />
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Chelsea was finished before me and completed it in under 1hr coming 70th out of a couple of hundred women. Not bad at all considering she was unwell.<br />
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We both had heaps of fun and I'm looking forward to doing another run soon.<br />
<br />novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-181040440392534722013-03-15T22:36:00.005-07:002013-03-15T22:54:29.244-07:00Auckland ZooThis weekend was going to be one to remember and nothing was going to change that.<br />
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Saturday started with an early morning wakeup to watch the Chiefs playing over in South Africa. I new that we were going to win but didn't think it would be as close as it was. Having watched my team chalk up a win I was in a good mood as we climbed into the car and headed north.<br />
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Chelsea has an attachment to all zoos and Auckland is one of her favourite. When she found out we were heading to the zoo and even better, doing a Zoom Experience she was like a kid a christmas. The smile on her face went from ear to ear and she kept doing this funny dance.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8560500343/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="150" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8560500343_6376a38be6_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8561608876/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="150" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8561608876_c225cb306d_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8561607740/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="200" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8376/8561607740_2fd0d9156a_n.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="150" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8561609206/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="200" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8244/8561609206_9fffb2b38e_n.jpg" width="150" /></a>On the way to Auckland we experienced 3 seasons, beautiful sunshine, rain and wind. Even if it was pouring down and blowing a gale it wouldn't have affected how amazing the experience was. We arrived at the zoo at 9.30 just as the gates were opening. Taking the opportunity to see the animals waking up we made beeline for the tiger as they can always be found lazying about. Then it was the alligator, orangoutangs, sealions, penguins, rino... well you get the point. Even though we only had a short time before the tour started we still managed to see a lot of the animals waking up and starting their day.<br />
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Then it was almost time, 10:35 and man did it go slow. It felt like the night before christmas, when you just want the morning to come only time goes so slow. This was the same. We had to wait 10 minutes which felt like an eternity. We were greeted by a lovely lady Harriet who was going to take us down to the enclosure and take photos. She was a super friendly and energetic person to take with and had lots of interesting things to say. We got to see the Auckland Zoo Shoe Shop which stocked the best in gumboots. With a pair of gummies on we were ready to get our hands dirty.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8561607884/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8378/8561607884_1d08e06820_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>Harriet took us down to see Burma and told us lots of interesting things about the zoo and the elephant. After learning lots of new things we were then takin into Burma's sleeping area and meet the very friendly zoo keepers. We were told why its important to scrub down an elephant and watched as Burma was lead into her 'shower'.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8560499963/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="200" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8368/8560499963_3c855e9ceb_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8561607102/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="200" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8561607102_b18153dc04_n.jpg" width="150" /></a>Seeing this amazing animal so close and hearing her speaking was a moment I'll have forever. She is such a beautiful animal with a fun attitude. We were given half a banana to feed her so that she knew we were friendly and not a vet. Didn't really have a problem meeting as Burma loves her food and once she realised we had some, we were friends.<br />
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Andy, the keeper, let us into the enclosure and we got to give Burma a quick pat before he got her to lie down. Watching such a large animal get on the ground is a sight. Every movement was careful and slow as she doesn't want to move her 3,500kg twice. Once on the ground she was given a pile of fresh veg's and I was reminded of a scene in a greek move with a lord or lady lying on a bed while being feed and cared for. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/novalightning/8560498857/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="Auckland Zoo by novalightning, on Flickr"><img alt="Auckland Zoo" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8560498857_87419d273a_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>We were invited back into the enclosure, given a scrubbing brush and set to work. To begin with Chelsea and I were in awe. Not wanting to hurt this beautiful animal we were apprehensive about scrubbing to ruff. As it turned out Burma's skin is really tough. To touch it felt like leather and her hair was really bristly. To say we enjoyed this experience is an understatement. It was amazing being able to help out the keepers and get hands on with an endangered species. Burma so super relaxed, lying on her side eating and drinking while we scrubbed.<br />
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After her wash was over Burma was lead out the back to have her nails painted and her broken tuss cleaned out. She was then lead out the front where Andy gave a talk to the general public. While this was on we were in the enclosure with another keepers asking a raft of questions. The keepers are so friendly and easy to talk, with you genuinely felt welcomed.<br />
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After the talk we left Burma to relax and got to have last chat with the keepers before they had to get back to their duties. Andy was a real down to earth guy who clearly has a close bond with Burma.<br />
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This is a day that I will never forget. Thanks Auckland Zoo, Andy, Harriet and everyone that works hard looking after and caring for the animals at the zoo.<br />
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novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-169976649516201704.post-76287325350107108712013-03-14T14:09:00.003-07:002013-03-14T14:09:33.939-07:00Mystery Weekend<br />
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With another weekend fast approaching it was looking like I wasn't going to have anything exciting planned. I set myself the goal of planning a trip somewhere or at least a hike.<br />
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After a little searching I came up with an idea and started searching the net to see if I was going to be able to pull off a Mystery Weekend. After several phone calls and booking the tickets the plan was layed down and an awesome weekend was to be had.<br />
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To make things even better Chelsea had know idea what I had planned or where we were going. I decided to leave her some clues along each day and make her guess. Its pretty clear that I like tramping and geocaching so I tried to make the hints related to those activities.<br />
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<i>Clue One: pack a bag for you weekend ahead, don't forget your shoes and a map.</i><br />
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It wasn't long before Chelsea and others started thinking that we were going caching or on a long tramp.<br />
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<i>Clue Two: We depart at 10:45, don't worry its not a long walk but you will be getting muddy.</i><br />
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This stumped her as she knew we were not flying anywhere and now not tramping... but getting muddy??<br />
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<i>Clue Three: This one is a little harder but lets just say it is a little slice of Asian culture.</i><br />
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That was all the clues that Chelsea needed. She came home from school with a huge smile on her face. I asked her if she had an idea as to what we were doing. She said she had a good idea but didn't want to guess incase she was wrong and was then disappointed. <br />
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Needless to say, after all her researching, she was right... For our Mystery weekend we are.... well you'll just have to wait and see.<br />
novalightninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401084524435995456noreply@blogger.com0