The Countdown Begins

With only 9 days to go until my departure, I thought today would be an opportune moment to begin blogging about my impending journey.

After having waited so long to go on an exchange, the time has finally come. And now that the time to leave is getting closer, it seems like every day goes faster and faster. But that could just be because I'm realising how many things I have left unfinished, including my 489 (research essay for Law Honours) which just doesn't seem to want to become a "final draft" no matter how hard I try.

Nevertheless, I am trying to enjoy the most of my time left in Wellington, as it's going to be a while before I come home. This week has been nice after having been caught unprepared in several thunder and lightning storms. It really makes a change being able to go out without it raining so heavily that your umbrella gets tired of being impermeable. So instead of being drenched to the bone and running away from lightning bolts, yesterday Campbell and I wanted to spend some time together playing on the waterfront with his new fancy camera.

Almost walking on water: Wellington Harbour

We followed our exploration with a trip to a German exhibition at Massey University quite timely put on by the Goethe Institute. The idea is that it is the "A to Z of German", so what better idea than to find the best letters and have some fun! I did initially have plans of writing longer sentences, but "Cheyne" was enough work - besides the strange looks I was getting for wanting my photo taken beside a giant N.

A to Z of German Exhibition, Massey University, Wellington

In the process, however, we did learn a lot about German culture, which may be helpful for our arrival in Hamburg. But basically, this exhibition gives me the impression that Germans are punctual, hardworking, and very efficient. So far, I like the sound of this new culture.

To treat ourselves for all our hard walking, we dined on fine tea at none other than the cutest cafe in Wellington, Martha's Pantry. Here is a medley of photos demonstrating two things: (i) Campbell's new photography skills, and (ii) Cheyne's new photoshop skills. I think the end result is quite pretty, and I do recommend you go there! This tea was some kind of Paris thing (I think it is automatically suggested when you order Earl Grey, because they are similar). Needless to say, it is delicious and should be eaten with any of their gorgeous edible treats that look too pretty to be devoured.

Delicious tea at Martha's Pantry, Wellington

Due to catastrophic internet failures back home, this post took a while to finish, but should be dated the 20th July. I am now in Hong Kong, so the 489 is finished, and I am a free woman! I will get a post up soon about my trip thus far, but for now I need to go and find something to stop my stomach rumbling!!