KeriKeri

Sam and I finally left the city. For a couple days, we were torn between going north to the Bay of Islands, or anywhere south like the Bay of Plenty, Hawke's Bay, or Wellington. In the end we decided on the former because an employee at the hostel in Auckland said that the Bay of Islands has nicer weather in the spring, and despite the fact that October is a bad month to be looking for jobs, there are plenty of vineyards/orchards that might be looking for employees.

We're in a town called KeriKeri, which means "dig dig" or "keep digging." I have no idea why it's called that, but it is a really nice, peaceful place. The slogan for the town is "It's So Nice They Named It Twice" haha. There are no big skyscrapers or big buildings. Almost all the shops and buildings here are one-story, so it's just a lot of small shops, large open fields, and open skies. Sam and I like it a lot. I don't know if I could live in a small town like this for the rest of my life, but still.

We're still unemployed, but the hostel we're staying at helps its guests look for jobs, and Sam and I aren't really worried. However, the internet here is so much more expensive than it was in the city, so I think I won't go online more than twice a week (unless I really have to).

To tell you the truth, we don't have that much more exciting information for you guys, but I'll definitely try to keep you guys posted. I hope you guys are doing well, and thanks so much for those who posted on my previous blog. It was really nice to read those comments after several days of no contact.

Unni - how was your retreat to ki-do-won?? I'm so glad you finally got to go, because of your job and all, so write me a long email about it and send pictures! =]

Christie - I know you're not in another country, but hey, it sounds like your life is a bit more interesting than mine at the moment. I hope you enjoyed your salsa dancing classes and that spanish catholic church! Congrats on understanding some of it =]

Grace - I haven't been able to go to a church yet, but last Friday night as I was wandering the city, I came upon Aotea Square, and a local church was having a praise night out on the square. It was really nice to just sit there and listen or sing along to the songs. There is a church here in KeriKeri, and I plan on going there to see what it's like, especially since I might be here for awhile. I'll let you know how that goes. And as for the bears.. ::shakes head::

Boaz - Your post made me laugh a lot. I miss your sense of humor! Thanks =]

Please keep me posted on what happens in Chicago or in your lives! =]