Hey everyone! Well, I am here in Christchurch, New Zealand and I am having a wonderful time. My flights went well. However, it did take me 35 hours to get here. Ugh! I hadn't showered, barely slept, and had not brushed my teeth. I met some funny and interesting people along the way so, I was constantly entertained. My family friend, Stewart Hay had his mother pick me up from the airport when I finally got to Christchurch. She is a sweetheart. I have been staying at her beautiful home right outside of town for the past few days. She has made sure that I have been well taken care of. I have been eating wonderful food all the time and I have had so many tea times it is ridiculous. Anyway, I have met Stewart's sister and family, his brother and family, and some of Mrs. Hay's friends. I love sitting around and just listening to them talk, it is such a soothing accent. Yesterday, I spent the majority of the day walking around the city of Christchurch. It was a beautiful autumn day and I had a great walk to all of the major attractions. Christchurch is nicknamed the garden city and it is such a deserving nickname. In fact, Mrs. Hay has an amazing garden at her home. I had the best meal last night and I have to tell ya'll about the desert. It was fresh peaches covered with ice cream, which had passion fruit zest poured on top and cream. Ummm! Ummm! Today, I picked up my rental car that I got a great deal on. It was difficult to get used to driving on the left side of the road from the right side of the car. Oh, and it was raining! I headed to the Antarctic Centre where I spent two hours wandering through the exhibit. Sounds kind of strange, but it was really interesting. Plus, I got to go into a room with snow that simulated an Antarctic storm. It cleared up to be a beautiful day so, then I got my map out and found my way over to the coast to Lytellton. I had the best seafood chowder I think I have ever had in my entire life. I drove along this curvy and tight road that went up to the mountain overlooking the coastal towns. Whew! I was so frightened by the heights but it was such a wonderful view. Tonight I am going to my first ever rugby game, Christchurch vs. Sydney. Should be fun! Anyway, I will quit rambling and move on. I am sorry that I don't have any pictures up yet, but I will by this weekend hopefully. Take care, hope to hear from ya'll soon. - Meghan