A Blessing

I miss New Zealand. Whenever I think about it, which is at least once a day, I think of how different words are pronounced.

I love how they pronounce 'marathon', the 'o' sounding like an 'e'. And how 'garage' was the name 'Gary' and 'age' placed together.

I'm sad I didn't spend more time really exploring the place, rather than having to choose school over a weekend in Wellington, where I only spent one day in and felt so happy and perfect in that place, like it was a new home I didn't know I had.

I sometimes wonder if I left something behind in that country. For a place that didn't necessarily have the best technology, they were way ahead of America in acceptance and generosity. The only bad experiences I had there were with other Americans, who didn't want to befriend the Kiwis I so enjoyed hanging around.

Most of my art projects involve an element of New Zealand. Kiwi and plant life alike, they find their way into my pieces. I feel like I'm stealing from another art when I mimic the way a leaf unfolds.

But I can't get it out of my head.

And then I came back. I don't think I had a reverse culture shock, but I did keep comparing things in my head. I noticed the scenery around me more, and missed the green lush that was so vivid. I still laugh at how Michael told the whole floor how I called a duvet a comforter, and how I'd been so embarrassed because the rest of the floor chuckled with him. I love that my mates got into the Halloween spirit with me by carving pumpkins, dressing up, and then watching scary/fun flicks.

I mostly miss how safe everything was. Everybody was nice, welcoming, and willing to share. And I feel guilty that I had a whirlwind experience and wasn't able to give that back to the extent they did for me.

This is what I think about in the split seconds of the morning when I wake up and wonder where I am.

Random Fact: The gnomon is the thing that casts the shadow on a sundial.

Forever = Good

This time around...

So, I've got my new tattoo.

It hurt, yes, but then it didn't. He used an eight needle, then a sixteen. Very quick, but I had no qualms. It was fun to sit and talk to the random stranger I'll never meet again (except for that hot night in Rio...). He was very calm, and I never said peep when the pain was more than the anticipated.

We talked about how he was still uncomfortable with putting tattoos on people's certain places, why someone got an alien on the back of his head (it's apparently the mascot, but also one of the employee's best friends) and the differences between Minnesota and New Zealand, particularly the North Island (as the south gets snow and the like).

I asked him how he became a tattoo artist, and he said that he'd always wanted to be one, since he was a little kid. He'd see his brothers with their tattoos and really wanted one, and wanted to make them. About five years ago, he got bumped from his job, so he got in the business. I'm very impressed with Powerhouse. It was a good call.

He also said that he didn't like the fact that anyone can do tattoos, no degree or anything, which meant a lot of bad tattoos.

Devon came with me. She wasn't able to stand behind the counter with me.

Me: May I ask why?
Him: Because it's not only a health hazard, but they're also bloody annoying!
Me: Hear that, Devon? You're not only annoying, but you're also a health hazard.

But she could see my tattoo once it was finished, and we packaged it up nicely with their surgical pads and saran wrap. Devon let me use her flip flips (jandals), in which I forgot to give back, but she has my fancy high-top wannabes, so we're even.

Afterwards, we got the famous Hell's Pizza, where I got guacamole with pinnapple (freaking fanastic tasting). In my first week, I was told to get Hell's Pizza, as it was the best pizza in New Zealand. Now, in my last week, I'm finally giving it a taste.

They also gave me free condoms.

I am so stoked for this last week. It perfect.

I went from computer breaking down, assignments being screwed up, stressed as hell to getting my tattoo, breathing calmly, getting last of my presents and having the rest of my days ahead of me.

It's amazing how quickly something can change. One phonecall can change a day, to good, better or worse. I often wonder if I've smiled at someone, causing them to change their minds completely some doing something terrible. I know I wish people would make more eye contact and smile. But I have noticed it's happening more and more often.

So, I've got one of the nerdiest days ahead of me. Lord of the Rings Day Tour. Eight hours. Elf ears. And seeing a lot of the sights. I have to say, I can't wait. I'm going to have so many pictures, videos and lovely memories from one day.

I'm really going out of New Zealand with a bang. It's exciting!

Sorry about no picture of the tattoo... My computer is still down, so it's hard to make a good copy for the nets. It's freaking sweet, however. Mark my words.

Random Fact: Strawberries hold more Vitamin C than oranges

Better Now Than Before

My computer decided to crap out on me.

Of course, I'm much more thankful that it's happened now, rather than before. For instance, writing all of my assignments and plaguing the internet. Now is a good time to be studying and focusing on what I need to do, unlike when I needed to do the stuff said when I first got here. And I'm thankful that it is also within the year's warranty. This means that I can still get it fixed without paying out the ass.

I just want everything to be okay. Since it seems to just be the fan not working, once that is replaced, I can get at my New Zealand photos and music. I feel bad because I won't be able to show Auntie Meg and Uncle Mike my photos (except for the ones I get from here on out), but I can always send them through email when I get home.

But, this also means that I have to buy another memory card for my camera, as, though a gig of memory is a lot, for a full weeks worth, it won't be.

Especially since I'm going here in five days or so. My nerdiness is getting the better of me by going all out to see the sights of Lord of the Rings. I really can't help it. J, the boy who is going around with me, decided not to come at the last second, but he said that I need to go since it's kind of my calling. And he's right. What's me going to New Zealand without seeing the sights that pretty much made my decision to go to New Zealand final?

It's an eight hour tour, with a lot of trekking and photo opportunities. Here's a direct quote from the page: "The tour includes a free souvenir map, elf ears for photos and a hobbit like storytelling guide for the day."

I do wish to have someone with me, but what happens will happen. I'm a bit nervous that there'll barely be anyone with me, but a friend pointed out "Hey, presonalized tour." Now I hope no one else will be there.

So, basically, everything is set for my trip.

9th: Five AM bus to Wellington with J. Will find where I need to be to get on bus tour, then have pretty much best 8 hours of my life. After tour, will meet up with J again to have dinner of some sort, then hop on bus back to Palmy.

10th: Hop on 11 AM bus to Hastings (Hawke's Bay), meet up with Sam. Go to speedway racing arena. Sleep a good sleep.

11th: Beachs!!! Be lazy, tan and possibly see some outlooks.

12th: Drive around and just hang out. No worries.

13th: Hop on 11 AM bus to Tauranga to meet up with Sara. Since I get back so late, will probably just hang around, eat dinner and sleep.

14th: Go around city. Top of mountain drive and so forth.

15th: More just going around city and possibly go to outskirts of area just to see what life will bring.

16th: Hang around get also get ready for leaving (i.e. make sure pack is packed). Hop on 6 PM bus to Auckland, then get to airport for departure a day early. My flight....

Oh, shit. My flight! It leaves on the 17th in the PM. Like, a lot PM. There's no reason to leave this early for that... I'll have to change that (for no cost, according to bus route).

But doesn't it all sound like fun? The last week I'm here, stress free (except for the whole flight thing). I'm excited to go to California and spend time with my Auntie and Uncle. Thanksgiving! Seeing Savanna and Madison! Just relaxing.

Then, when I get home...

But I'll deal with that when that comes. There'll probably be an addition to the family via pets. And I'll know about my RA stuff. I'll be home, where I need to be. With my family, helping out. And maybe the traveling bug will be gone (either that, or I've sparked it's interest and I'll have to do this every year in order to be sane. I kind of hope for the latter, just for fun's sake. For money's sake, I hope I'll be kind of through for a little while. But I'll be a traveller at heart).

So, I'll try to update and the like, but since I actually have to move my ass to write on here, just know that I'm still having the time of my life. I'm taking pictures, seeing sights and living life as it should be lived. To it's fullest.

All right. Time to pack and study for my last test. Woot!

Random Fact: Mosquitoes have 47 teeth.

New Hats

I know I've promised myself over and over to make my own hat because I know I can, but when I saw this, I couldn't let it go. I got it for fifteen bucks, which is cheap for New Zealand (cheap for in the states as well). It's really warm, cute as hell and really matches me, I think.



The river behind me is this. I pass over it when I visit Devon, another American who was in my Poetry class. We both play video games (her more the FFXI, me the consoles), so we've hung out quite a few different times. In order to get to her house, I have to climb very steep stairs. The view makes up for it.

I got the hat at a fair in a neighboring town. Devon invited me, and it was extremely fun! We saw different types of cows, sheep, sheep dogs, guinea pigs, puppies, horses, pigs, bulls.... There were rides and games, but I wasn't as interested, as lugging home a huge stuffed animal wasn't pleasing, but also because it seemed expensive to me. The Carnies screw over people. I would have tried to get a goldfish, but they didn't have any.

I only spent twenty bucks, which is nice. Fifteen for the hat, five to enter the festival. I didn't get hungry. I was this close to getting a tattoo, but I didn't have my picture of the kiwi-bird I wanted. But I'll be getting it, no worries.

Yesterday was eventful as well, and I was a little too tired to write.

Gina and I went to Mickey's to get some ice cream and the like and chat, which was very fun, as we talked about anything. It's nice to talk to someone who's secure with whom they are, as you're okay with talking about anything and not having to change your opinion for fear of looking dumb.

Last semester, she had a best friend from the States, a boy named Marcus. Now that he's gone, she misses him much more than she thought she did, and since I have the same sort of accent, she'll talk about him and about the things they've done (great stories that make me laugh, especially since I know the other people in the stories).

They've only been keeping in touch through e-mail, so I mentioned, "You know, I have a bunch of extra minutes on my card. I'll bet we could find his number through the internet, and you could talk to him."

Two hours later (we had to wait for a decent hour to call), we had him on his cell phone.

It was one of the coolest experiences of my life to watch it happen, as they laughed over events in the past. They talked for a good half hour or so and were able to switch addresses and phone numbers for special occasions.

I guess the beauty was just in how happy Gina was to hear his voice. After she got off the phone, she was just so happy. And I was able to help with that.

So, I guess this means that, no matter what, I'll be doing my project. I'll work out the details when I get home. And it's not really work, though it'll take up time. I'm excited to start.

Random Fact: You burn more calories sleeping then watching TV

This Is Halloween!

A day ahead, as usual ^_~



As you can see, carving was a huge success. I got six people to carve with me, and the pumpkins were only three bucks each (which they helped pay for).

I did the far right, wanting a Picasso image, but it didn't quite turn out as I'd hoped... I wanted to originally do Pac-Man, but Sara took the round pumpkin for herself, and the rest were very abnormally shaped and awkward sized. I didn't want to make a fuss, and I really didn't care so much--I've done this multiple times, and they've never done it.

Sara the the one next to mine, simple but good.

Michael's is next, which is upside down for a good reason. When he carved his mouth, it was very close to the ground, so I said it should be placed upside down. I think it turned out great.

The next is Sarah's, whom did a square and triangle eye.

J took forever to do his, but it was understandable as we got a head start on him and the pumpkins are very thick skinned. The face he chose to do reminded me of Jack Skellington.

The last one is a combination of Michael's talent with mine, the idea being we'd all add something to the pumpkin... But no one else did.



I thought the knotty part of the pumpkin looked like a scarred eye, and Michael wanted to try out the whole "carving half the pumpkin out" technique some people have done. When it came time for me to do a mouth, there was little room and anything could screw it up, so I did a slit. Later, we added a slit to the scar-eye and the knife poking out of it's head for character. We left the lid off to give it more air and to give it more light (the whole eye thing didn't quite work as we planned).

As far as I know, they're still all lit, as the RA's said we could keep them outside where we took the pictures. We got a lot of stares from people, and a lot of compliments. But I just think it was fun!

Afterwards, we went inside. we ate some candy, made popcorn, talked... Then we watched The Nightmare Before Christmas, which was a blast. I love the movie more than I can say, and it was good to laugh at my favorite parts. It was rather sad when they asked me why it was one of my favorite movies, but they still enjoyed it. Sara thought it was a little more scary than it ought to be. I could see where she got the idea.

I didn't stay in my costume as long as I'd have liked to, mainly because of the long day I had.

I got up rather early, intending to go get pumpkins, but ended up taking the long ways, sending out postcards, checking places for Halloween things and winding my way through to Pac 'N' Save for the pumpkins (I got six, and they were heavy... You can imagine the stares I got when getting on, off, and buying them). When I got back, I was helping Sara figure out what she wanted to be for Halloween, painting my crown for Princess Peach from Super Mario Sunshine (she had a sleeveless dress, what I had to work with). However, when looking for inspiration in the first place, I'll tell you the things I came across... Whole dedications to her, this being only one. It's one thing to have a Wikipedia, but these websites are even more amazing. They show things from pictures of every game she's in to cosplay footage of people at conventions. It was very hard for me to want to dress up, as the footage showed these hard workers who spent months/years on their costumes to make perfection. Daunting, in the least.

But I prevailed by accidentally locking myself out of my room while I had my koala ears on. Most of my day was spent wearing the makeup for my costume while wearing koala ears, as the RAs weren't in the hizzo for more than six hours and I had my radio show to get to.

I didn't mind, though. The costume could have been considered half-assed, I was tired and I was still daunted by the fact that people spend so much time on their costumes (well, more jealous that they're able to make such great costumes... they don't necessarily look good in them, but when they do, one can feel pretty poutful).

Random Fact: Prince Charles and Prince William never travel on the same airplane in case there is a crash.

One Hundred

This should be a time to celebrate. One hundred posts. It really is an accomplishment.

Except for the fact that all of the time that went into making these posts could have been put to better use, such as studying or more hours at a job.

But then you wouldn't be receiving the quality material I prepare each and every time I decide to update this ol' mother!

Well, technically, it's just material. I don't really think about preparing anything. In theatre terms, this is all just improv. off the top of my head.

And that makes it quality.

Material, I mean.

Tonight, I ended up laughing quite a lot with a friend Gina, whom I ended up having a lot more in common with than I'd ever have anticipated.

Starting with just going to Pac N' Save for some extra food, we hummed and hawed at whether we should actually buy products for over an hour. I ended up buying three times the amount of items I wanted, as usual. And to splurg it all, we went to Mcy's (McDonald's) to have a cone.

Getting back at past midnight, I have to say that it was a blessed evening.

We just drove to a park, then sat and talked. About everything.

It has been quite some time since I've just sat and talked, laughing and really giving responses while also receiving.

We talked about boys (for heaven's sake, we do talk about boys at times), we talked about great lines in movies and we talked about old friends and how fucked up things can get.

I talked about how we got lost in Australia, and how I was the only one who had a cool head. She talked about her step-father and how awesome he was when he'd heard she was pregnant and helped her make a decision. She talked about Marcus, an American she was best friends with the semester before and how confused she's been since he's been gone. I talked about how I'd been best friends with a kid Nick in High School and he'd ditched me with another best friend because they'd been "in love."

Then we went and got more ice cream cones.

It was one of the few times in my life where you're with a person and there isn't an awkward pause after a sentence is finished. A connection made on too short of notice, as I only have a few weeks left before leaving New Zealand for home.

It always sounds mean to say, but it's true when we think about a "system of friendships." There are certain friends we go to for a good laugh, certain friends we go to when we want to bitch, certain to forget, certain to remember, certain to have mindless chatter with... But there are those precious few that somehow have all of those "certains" crammed together. And it's amazing how easily they can be pitched away or lost.

I love the friendships I've made with Sara and Michael. Sara has my morals and shares my quirky thought processing. Michael is the playful puppy I've missed at home. But the appreciation for this night seems to pale in comparison, as truth is the best in any relationship.

I will be hanging out with Sara for the last few days of my trip, going to Lord of the Rings sites and climbing mountains. And J and I will do even more by checking out Wellington and hanging out at Hawk's Bay for a few days with another friend.

But by far the best event of this trip has been meeting the people and making those connections. Places are everywhere, but what makes you come back is the memories made by those connections your heart will always remember.

I'm glad the last few weeks of this will be filled with laughter. It always was the best medicine.

Random Fact: The Main Library at Indiana University sinks over an inch every year because when it was built, engineers failed to take into account the weight of all the books that would occupy the building.

Someday

Just so you all know, I'm leaving for this weekend to help out with picking up garbage on a few beaches around us. I'll be back on Sunday, but late.

This is mostly an update for parentals.

As it is, I'm actually pretty sick of college students in my hall right now.

People keep leaving their keys behind (on purpose), so they knock on windows to make everyone get up and let them in. When you're watching a movie, this is not fun.

Last night, two drunk guys at five-thirty AM knocked on my door very loudly, waking me up from a sound sleep. By the time I got to the door, they were pounding so hard I thought that my RA was going to tell me someone died, but then it turned out to be two guys that were admiring my Chuck Norris poster on my door. After the long conversation that ensued, in which I ended up getting them to leave, I slept very badly, taking two more hours to get back to sleep and woke up every hour after that.

A first good sleep in over two months and drunk guys ruined it for me for their own amusement (I found out later they went to the next wing over and were told to "fuck off" with a small threat as they woke up everyone in the hall.)

And people ask me why I don't drink.

I'm getting into XXXHolic (apparently, you just pronounce it -holic, as in Alcoholic... which makes complete sense as I watch the show). It's actually really "deep" and "insightful," the kind of animes I enjoy. Action plus good plot equals capturing Mallory's heart.

So does music. And the music is good.

Random Fact: Pearls melt in vinegar.

I Like Me Time

I am so sick of slow internet. It's not just an irritation... it's an inconvenience as I try to talk to my parents, friends, teachers... It fluctuates so randomly. I'll have amazing connection, then none, then low, then excellent, then none...

I want to tell the school to stick it where it hurts, but it's not even their fault. All of New Zealand is behind on the whole 'fiber optics' deal.

I think it's mainly getting to me now because since I've gotten back from Australia, I've been wanting to show pictures, uploading and sharing through GoogleTalk, but it's been a job and a half for me to show people things.

I'm also not ready for school. I've skipped classes that I normally wouldn't skip, and though it's fine because it's only once, I'd rather I'd not done it at all. I'm in New Zealand, and it's important for me to get these grades up for when they transfer. I just can't get back in the mode. Two weeks of freedom, traveling around and meeting random people, and I'm ready to keep doing so. School is so monotonous. And I know I have at least another year after this (more if I decide to do my second major, even more if I want a masters).

I'll probably end up taking a year off before going to Masters, though... Maybe.

I just want to get schooling done so I can live my life, though, technically, I'm supposed to be living it in college because that's what college is supposed to be all about--learning new stuff but staying young.

And I'm having such a good time, laying back and not worrying. It's a relief to not do anything, no expectations.

But I know it's not to last. A life isn't supposed to be like that. There needs to be that responsibility. There needs to be discipline. But maybe that's my problem. I'm giving myself so much discipline that part of me is finally revolting against it's stupid rules. Against the fact that working hard doesn't always necessarily mean you'll get what you want, but not working hard usually does.

If only life were like a video game. The RPGs I play always have justice in the end. You fight your hardest, you go against evil in the face, you get the benefits now as well.

And you get a cool sword, shield, magic and maybe you get to find the love of your life while you're at it.

It's a small test for myself, really. The ability to just trudge onward, like a mile of upward hill, a few more yards away and then getting to the top to look around for a while, then slowly coming down.

Maybe I am at the top. And I'm just unwilling to get down because it took so long to get there.

Or maybe I'm just looking too into it and should just do what I'm told.

In the end, I know I'll be fine. I've never been able to not go forward. I'm the type that gets bored either way.

But until then, I'm liking this sleeping in, reading and talking with friends and family. I still have two months before I get home. Next week, real work is around the bend.

In other news, a Kiwi was completely shocked to hear that Minnesota lottery gets up over on hundred million because theirs rarely get up over ten. Even with the exchange rate, things are so expensive here, it wouldn't last.

Things I'd Do With Fifty Million Dollars:
*Pay off parents bills
*Give parents trip to Australia
*Buy brother loads of video games, 360 Elite and great sound system to go with his new LCD TV (maybe a bigger one if he wants it as well)
*Pay off college loans
*Go on full paid trip with Mandikat (Japan)
*Buy only organic foods
*Get another tattoo
*Go on full paid trip with Ashley (Greece)
*Give charity to Humane Societies
*Write all day long for three days in a row
*Play video games all day long for three days in a row
*Buy ellipse workout system
*Who knows what else

Random Fact: 'Jedi' is an official religion, with over 70,000 followers, in Australia.

Number Eighty-One

Wow, you guys... I have done so much in these past two weeks, my head will explode if I have to do it all.

I've been to Australia and back, then also decided to continue on with the North Island of New Zealand, which we only saw the smallest part of.

Let's review what I've done...

I spent a day in Auckland, almost missed my flight, watched Meet The Robinsons (not that half bad), got a bus ride to Coogee Beach (where I stayed for six days), ate the best muesli in the world at Coogee Bite, walked along five beaches twice in the same day, ate some best damn "yeeros" from an awesometastic Greek man, went on multiple ferries, went on the Manly Islands, went to the Sydney Aquarium where I saw a platypus, crocodile, seals, sharks and a huge freaking stingray, saw the lunar eclipse, went to Queen's Park where everyone but me rock climbed (I took the photos) and used a bum's mattress as a crash pad, went to the Sydney Opera House, the Botanical Gardens, Darling Harbour, saw a man get clothes-hanged for stealing shoes, went to a souvenir shop that had a bottle opener with kangaroo nuts as the handle, rented cars for the first time, got separated from our crew for almost five hours, found them again two blocks away from where we were, slept in the car, saw The Three Sisters (the middle reminds me of Jabba the Hut) at Katoomba, went to Perry's Lookdown, met two women who were awesome, froze my ass off camping, went to Oberon, headed to Mt. Werong and camped there, saw grey kangaroos (passing by), saw an abandoned silver mine in which I decided there was a shootout and that's why it's run down, took night pics with long exposure to make words with our flashlights, slept in a small tent with four people to keep warm at night, did Wentworth Falls, laid on beaches, slept at the airport, President Bush was flown in the same night at airport so we were "quarantined" together with strangers, flew on plane and watched At Worlds End and then waited at the airport for Claire, Joe and Melissa with Scott.

We saw birds, jelly fish, Scott went body surfing, I found a shirt in between rocks, Joe got Codeine for his cold, met a girl from Scotland and didn't shower for five days until we got to the airport (in which I had taken a shower when I got off the plane and before we got on it... thank you free showers, thank you...).

Then we did the North Island...

We did the Bay of Islands, collected glass and shells (which I'd done in Australia as well), stayed at a sweet as hostel, went to Cape Reinga (which I trekked in flip-flops), Ninety Mile Beach (which is actually only 64 miles), met people fishing off the beach who told us of a friend of theirs that took the head of a Great White Shark and sold it on the black market for about five thousand dollars, watched Goldmember and half of Snatch, went to Hot Water Beach, met a couple from Germany and Italy, dug on the beach and made our own hot springs, went to Cathedral Cove, passed by my Hobbiton Movie Set (which I've already made plans to visit later) and drove all the way back home for about six hours or more with a stop by a lodge to pick up more shit.

Then, I came back home and had an overwhelming amount of things to do, it seemed, besides the normal unpacking and saying hello. I called so many people, talked to so many people, looked at photos of other peoples trips, had to check my e-mail, sent many e-mails, checked many of my online webcomics (still not done), ate dinner, tried to talk with parents and really, overall, forgot some important papers that I rushed to finish (and only some completed). A test I took that got screwed over thanks to the Internet was said that the answers were taken into consideration (here's hoping I pass the damn thing), am completely worried about my past poems because people have had a long time to pick them apart and wrote a story about my trip that I'm not sure I particularly like (more so knowing the fact that everyone wants to read it... ugh).

I don't even want to think about the amount of money I spent. I'm on freaking vacation. And it was fun.

For more details, I guess we'll just have to see each other so I can show pictures and the like. I can't wait to give presents and make things out of the sea glass I found along the beaches.

I'm still debating on a Facebook account, just because that means I can get pictures from everyone else. I do so hate that thing. I'm barely even on Myspace anymore.

And I'm tan. Ha.

Random Fact: In 1998, Sony accidently sold 700,000 camcorders that had the technology to see through people's clothes.

Simple & Clean

I don't think I've ever missed video games as much as I do now. Of course, listening to it's music doesn't help. But I can't help it.

In all reality, music makes the game. Or movie. If there weren't any music, I highly doubt things would be as scary/happy or any real feeling in the least. Even before we were able to record sound, people would play music with the picture.

It's just a trigger. Listening to Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts just makes me miss playing the fantasy world. Given, this is also giving me more and more creative being to stories--but, to be honest, I don't have much time for that. Travel writing won't really allow me to write about the traveling instances in which my character would romp around a mystical land, and Media Skills would doubtfully allow an article on... well, maybe it could use an article on why there are other games besides rugby (for the love of God, there is more than a rugby game!!!). As it is, I should really be enjoying the lovely around me.

But it's been rainy and windy. And during those times is the times when I'd make some good hot chocolate, popcorn and sit for a night with a friendly Mario.

There are very few people here to play video games, and if they do, it's normally the games I don't tend to play because I don't own an Xbox 360. I think it's more than time to invest.

Otherwise, I'm pretty excited for Australia. We only have ten days, but I know that we'll be visiting the zoo. I'm a little nervous about money, but when am I not?

I hate money.

And I hate the people that came up with it.

I'm giving love and luck to my brother, whom will be going to the tournament for Major League Gaming. I kinda wish I could be there for him, and see what it would be like, but I highly doubt he'd enjoy the "support." After all, I am his stupid sister.

Things in Kiwi:
Q-tips = Ear Buds
Bangs = Fringe
Comforter = something I can't spell, but it sounds weird
Granola = Muesli
Fries = Chips
Hot Dog = American Hot Dog (their hot dog is just enveloped completely, and they apparently like it better...)
Cookie = Buscuit
Sucker = Lolli
Jell-o = Jelly
Cooler = Chilly Bin
Apartment = Flat
Counter = Bench
Eraser = Rubber
Comforter = Duvet
Bathing Suit = Togs
Blinker = Indicator (as in driving)
Hiking = Tramping
High School = College
College = (only) University
Mail = Post
Drunk = Pissed
'#' Pound = '#' Hash

Otherwise, they spell things with "ou" (as in colour) or "re" (as in centre). I've just realized how many Kiwis have asked me to spell something for them... and I've probably led them in the wrong direction because we spell things completely differently in the states (program = programme).

Random Fact: Only 55% of Americans know that the sun is a star. (maybe it'll change now that I've posted this...?)

Sunshine Fresh

I'm doing laundry for the first time with what I like to call "Hippy Detergent."

To explain this further, the brand is called Surf. There is a daisy on the front with one petal plucked and it says "...loves me, loves me not!" Then I see ladybugs and other "happy things" if you will.

It's a happy-time.

Most buildings around here are two stories, especially McDonalds and Burger King. However, they have amazing international food, which is pretty fantastic.

I've got a library card, have Harry Potter reserved and have been addicted to my new webcomic of Penny and Aggie. Terrible thing to do, considering I'm in another country, but I've finished and may go to the nice updates only ever so often. The internet, while still too sucky for me to really update any photos, is good for at least checking my other needs (such as what's coming out for my precious video games and any other news I find important that's not).

People text here like there's no tomorrow. They actually have better plans for getting two thousand texts than getting any real talk time. When I talk to a Kiwi, they're more than likely also texting away on their phones. Which I find scary for people who are driving.

Have I mentioned they drive crazy over here? BECAUSE THEY DO.

Otherwise, I'm in the need for just more mature people. I sometimes wonder if this is how I was when I was a Freshman.

If so.

UGH.

Random Fact: Mailing an entire building has been illegal in the U.S. since 1916 when a man mailed a 40,000-ton brick house across Utah to avoid high freight rates.

Random Fact for last time: The banana tree cannot reproduce itself. It can be propagated only by the hand of man.

Random Fact for the time before that: At birth, a panda bear is smaller than a mouse.

Random Fact for Good Luck: The are six fictional characters that have stars on Hollywood's 'Walk of Fame'.

Yarn And Beer

I decided that it was definitely cold here, but I didn't want to buy myself a scarf--so I made one by buying yarn and a crocheting needle. When everyone saw what I was doing, I ended up promising to make a few to the others as long as they bought the yarn.

So, yes, mother, I'm doing half of what I already do in the states ^_~

As for schooling, it's getting a little difficult with the "Lectures" and "Tutorials," in which we make our own schedules, but they don't always work out when there are a small number of people. I'm also kind of worried about the workload I'm required to do, considering a few of my classes say they require at least 12.5 hours per week (and that was my writing poetry class!). If this is the case, I won't be seeing much of New Zealand or having much of a social life. I already don't drink.

They have an interesting way of placing things about, though. I'm used to having a syllabus smacked at me that says, "DO THIS SO YOU CAN PASS," whereas they don't typically tell us to really do anything. We have to go down to a Student Centre, tell them our courses and then we receive huge packets that are called "Study Guides." They help us through the courses, apparently. So, we have to read certain parts of our books, read these study guides to go along with them before each class so then the teacher can go on with more information, but reference to the before information while he/she is at it. I'm beginning to see why most people take only two courses.

However, as it stands, for me to be able to take out the loans I am taking, the classes that are transferring must accumulate enough credits so that I can actually take them out. I don't think my university would be too pleased to find that I didn't have enough courses. (though maybe I could just take an incomplete and do the thing later...?)

I haven't got much news for my "clubs" or "organizations." I've heard they are scraping up people, but nothing has been said. One of the teachers said I could sit in on her class, and she's also more than wanting me to speak in front of it about "culture shock," which I replied I'd be more than happy to do. I've realized that culture shock doesn't have to be big--it's really the small comforts that can cause it.

I've been told Bob Dylan is coming to town here, and I'm seeing if it happens to be during the time of break--that'd be an experience. So would getting another tattoo (don't be surprised if I come home with another one!).

I've yet to make some "real" friends. I should just remember that it's only been a day, but still. Connections are hard when not only is there a small culture barrier, but also the fact that I am coming in on the second semester. And that I don't drink.

Have I mentioned that drinking is more than huge here? I have to give props to a fellow American who doesn't drink, yet still goes out with all of the peeps. She's definitely got something that I don't. I find it hard to be around people who do more than socially drink.

As it is, I'm off to the "common room" to see whom else I can meet. I do believe I accidentally blew off a meeting when I was out getting a city library card.

Oops.

Random Fact: Not missing much yet!

Figures

As it seems, when I decided to go to New Zealand, my favorite bands decides to go on tour. And guess where they're ending up? In St. Paul in September.

Who freaking planned this trip again?

Oh, right. Me.

It's really not that big of a deal. I just kinda wish I were able to be in Minnesota when they do their first play there. Especially since I know everyone is going to be there. Right?. I said, RIGHT.

They have a new video for The Stray which is more than cute. I've liked this band since the beginning. It's amazing to watch them grow. Pretty soon, in a store near you, you'll see them for sale. I'm surprised they don't have a label yet. Unless they're going for their own. Which would be more than freaking sweet.

Besides this is my suitcase, I've been listening to Alanis Morissette. And Toadies. And Anime music. And Mika. And Zibra Zibra.

....

this is my suitcase? Could you maybe stop by New Zealand? >^_^<

KiwiLand

Elsewise known as New Zealand.

I'm sorry I haven't been updating as usual. It's a rather long explanation as to how New Zealand uses their internet. I won't go into detail, so let's just say that I'm using a crappy internet for now because it's free.

In other news, I'm making fast friends, I've seen my first (and more than positive only) kiwi bird, and am getting involved in many different clubs, which include anime, origami, radio, newspaper and video (they don't have a television station at the place I'm studying at... sad). I'll be picky once I see the opportunities ahead, but until then, I want it all and I want it now.

I'm also checking out on the idea of sitting in on classes for no credit (auditing). I have to pay more if I want more than four classes, and the Introduction to Cross-Cultural Communication seems more than fun. We'll see what the teacher says.

Otherwise, I still don't feel weird about being in another country. Yes, I miss my parents, but there's so much for me to do, I've not been able to really worry.

There are many American's here, and they tend to group together, which is sad because I really want to just group out. Yes, they're nice, but it's more of that I want to experience everything I can. Once school starts, since I'll be the only one in those classes (papers), then I'll really get to see what it's got to offer.

Mmmmmm..... Kiwi.....

Cre-e-e-py Crawlers!

Ah, those good ol' days. When one could not only make bugs, but eat them. And not get sick or get an angry parent in the process. Of course, with Creepy Crawlers, you don't eat the bug, but with other products, one could, indeed, make an edible creature to eat in front of the grandparentals, which, according to the commercials, would cause them to try not to vomit, etc., etc. I never did try to fake it, though. In fact, after making a batch of those crazy critters (if my brother ever allowed me to even touch the plastic oven), I didn't really do much with them anyways. Maybe I'd have them attack my Barbie dolls, in which the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles would come to the rescue. But, in all reality, I'm pretty sure my parental units found the multi-colored (for I never wanted a normal looking bug) being and threw them away when I wasn't looking.

However, I still own most of my older toys. Whenever my parents decided on a garage sale, I'd sneak in (sometimes with my brother) to check out the toys my parents assumed we still didn't play with and "steal" them back. Sometimes, they were right, we didn't play with them as often. But I couldn't bear to see my precious Barbie apartment, which turned into a suitcase for easy storage or bringing to a slumber party (which I never did) being sold to some other child who probably not only really wanted it more than me, but would "destroy it with it's playing methods" (I was a very cautious child for my toys, and was mortified to see that some of my Barbie's arm were savagely bitten off by my dogs, in which they were then considered to be in some soap opera where the arm would never again be the same and was handicapped... then I'd rarely play with it again because, well, she was handicapped). Or my TMNT gang (which my brother will repeatedly claim to be his own, though I've always considered things to be half mine because we're supposed to share). As it is, I think I must have won out in the end because we still have half of what I continually "stole" back, which is rightfully mine in the first place.

Unless, when we moved, my parental units decided they were worthless and got rid of them. I sure hope not.

*is now completely in the realm of forever wondering*

As for my New Zealand, things have gotten to a point of me just realizing that I need to take one step at a time. There are a lot of things that need to be done, and if I think about it all together, my head wants to explode in a fit of zones. I spoke with the main advisor of AustraLearn today, and she assured me that, not only would the website for Massey University be up within the next couple of days, but that the deadlines were just guidelines. One can't even imagine the amount of stress lifted off my shoulders.

In other news, I'd heard quite some time ago that one of my favorite authors is having my favorite vampire series into an HBO series. I think my heart had just about stopped when I heard the news, but nothing was really said of it for a while. The series is a series I'm always re-reading (more than even Harry Potter, which is saying something of me), and I've been going crazy because my local bookstore isn't keeping up to date. And she's already got another one coming out in May. Cue for me to start crying. As it is, I'm rather excited for the cast that will be doing the show: Anna Paquin for Sookie Stackhouse, Sam Trammell for Sam Merlotte (and it creepily looks like how I'd picture him, too) and Ryan Kwanten for Jason Stackhouse (Sookie's brother & womanizer). I'm super stoked for this to start, can't wait to see my favorite anything ever to be on television and pray to the gods above that I'll be able to receive it while in New Zealand (if it's playing while I'm there, that is... otherwise, I'm willing to pay the extra whatever to see it here.). Of course, they're calling it something different (True Blood. That's original *rolls eyes* Why do the vampire titles for movies have to be so... D-U-M-B? I mean, at least the novel names were witty and made for a laugh, not over dramatic and asking for lame audiences... I'm still going to watch it, but I'll sulk a while, the nerd I am). It makes me wonder how close they're going to stick to the novels, and I'm extremely interested in what's going to happen when it comes to who plays Vampire Bill or Eric. The more I read the series, the more I like Bill, but I've always been a fan of Eric from the beginning; must be the tall Viking thing.

I kind of think the guy picked to be Jason looks like Brian Krause, who played Leo in Charmed.

Don't look at me like that. Don't judge me.

Okay, so I read and watch a lot of sci-fi and fantasy. Sue me.

In fact, I don't really remember the first day I decided Vamps were for me. I mean, the whole idea of fairies, vampires, werewolves, shape shifters and mermaids have always been my kind of deal; the abnormal intrigued my small mind, and the idea of meeting some supernatural being has been at the top of my nerdy list since who knows when. There's this tiny part of me that refuses to believe that these aren't somehow real--things don't just *poof* out of thin air. Concepts and ideas were placed by things in the past. Though I need physical proof to really have a true statement, you'll never see me claiming there's no such things as fairies. Instead, I'll look skeptically at "people" and stare at the tall, dark and handsome I only see at night. Wishful fantasies, really.

I'm actually quite jealous of Anna Parquin, who got to play Rogue in X-Men with Hugh Jackman, worked with Kirby Morrow (who was in Stargate: Atlantis, and, for those nerds out there, was the voice for Hot Shot in Transformers: Cybertron, AND the voice for Miroku in Inuyasha, a show I'll ashamedly admit to watching!), and is also a quite attractive young woman. I'd be more than willing to take her place in such an acting career, especially if she's playing one of my favorite Heroine's in the novelistic sense.

Maybe I'll be somehow crazily discovered in Las Vegas at the NAB convention? I've been told David Letterman will be making an appearance, along with some other influential participants. Maybe some others will appear as well? *prod, prod*

Just look for this beautiful face:



I'll probably be in a tizzy, trying to decide which lecture I wish to go to as well as in awe since I've never been to Las Vegas before.

Word to the following men:
Dane Cook
Zach Braff
David Bowie
Hugh Jackman
John Krasinski

I know most of you have girlfriends/are married, but... if you ever happen to be just around those parts during that special week, and you see me... Let's do Hot Chocolate? After the Con, of course, but I'm more than willing to give time out of my life for any tips you've got for my Mass Communication future, along with a hug or two to satisfy my affectionate needs.

Speaking of my nerdy aspects, is it just me, or did anyone else notice that the main character from Firefly is also in Drive? I saw a random commercial while at home Easter Break and was extremely surprised (considering I don't have cable at my house anymore). Food for thought, really. Movie stars are everywhere these days.

On a tangent, I find it interesting to note that Ken, the boy Barbie doll, is just recently getting real hair. I had to deal with that plastic crap all my childhood, and now he's getting the real locks. No imagination for kids now-a-days, I tell ya.

Random Fact: There are no clocks in Las Vegas gambling casinos

Be Free

Wow. Today has been an experience and a half. I don't think I've gone through so many emotions within the past ten hours. As many of you know, I'm living off of about fourteen hours of sleep these past three days, and though things haven't been getting as bad, they certainly haven't been getting better.

Until today.

It's official. I've been accepted into New Zealand's warm arms; Massey University wants me to be one of their own. For a whole year. Though there are quite a few expenses that must be paid (some of which I have no idea if I get the money back), but I know that I was accepted. Half the battle is won. And I don't think I've been more stoked. Except for my Arts High School. That was an accomplishment in itself.

Of course, I have to thank my family the most for helping me out. They believed in my every second, and I couldn't have even thought of affording anything without my grandparents. I'm the luckiest anything alive to be able to have this even as an opportunity.

This definitely overrides my anger at my current roommates for being completely jackasses about our lease and never cleaning.

Since I only worked for a few hours today, I actually have time to do what I need to do. My brother promised to help me with my taxes tomorrow, I don't have some classes on Thursday and the story I have in mind for Writing Fiction II is pretty fantastic. Finally, things are looking more my way.

Word of Advice: If you visulize what you want, as long as it's good for the soul, it'll really come true.

Here's praying everything will go through.

Random Fact: Flamingos can only eat with their heads upside down.

There's A Sign...

...by this computer that demands people to never have pornography on it. It's one of the last computers in the superlab and makes me very self-conscious. Who the hell would watch porn in public? And why is it only on these back computers?

I'm very scared for the keyboard I'm touching.

In other news, I hate taxes. I can't even begin to explain the hatred for governmental issues/papers/anything that involves money. They make things complicated and I feel as if I'm always doing something wrong whenever such a paper is placed in front of me. I could make a joke about marrying a Jew, but it doesn't matter. Because I do want to marry a Jew. And it has nothing to do with money reasons.

As it is, we don't have class on Thursday, but I'm spending it cleaning the studio, then having a party afterwards, which I'm greatly interested in. To say the least, I'm beginning to feel greatly involved in the process, and I'm sad to leave because they have ideas for the summer to keep the show going, in which I wish I could be involved. The little community we've created is really something, and I can't help but feel finally apart of something. Sure, theatre was fun and junk, but everyone was so different, and hanging outside of the class wasn't what we all did. Drinking and drugs were often involved during those days, and I ended up spending most of my time playing video games. But, interestingly enough, I'm finding myself willing to give up my gaming time to work on this. I love it. The camera, graphics, making posters and anything else is fun, takes up time and I'm really proud of what we're accomplishing. Theatre never really did that for me--it was always really dramatic, and though I had fun, there were many parts that just didn't spark my interest. Everything in this sparks my interest. Just like writing. Mom, Dad, I think I've found my ninche.

What makes me more happy (and a little scared) is that if I don't get accepted into Massey University, I'm excited to know that I've still got something running for me, and I won't be disappointed. I'll go to New Zealand wishing I could have stayed awesomely involved, but I have something to look forward to. Whereas, if I have to stay, I still have something to awesomely look forward to. And, if possible, I could actually stay here the summer with Work Study and do the television show. With no school, my whole heart and soul could go into this and I could start the thing that sparked my entire life up to originally get involved with the Mass Communications in the first place.

Either way, I can't lose.

Looking at things this way, I'm finding I'm at peace with whatever happens. It's taken a lot of stress off my shoulders.

I'm still rooting for New Zealand, though. PLEASE accept me!!!

Right. No more skipping classes. Operation Mallory Works Ass Off is in gear (as it should have been, rather than the starter working for only a few seconds, then turning off). I've always found school to be boring. I roll my eyes a lot when I think of school. I like to learn--in fact, I love to learn. But I hate what comes along with it. Teachers tend to forget we have other classes, and people in general tend to forget how many students have jobs to support themselves, sometimes kids/families and even athletics. There's little room for social life. And though I agree that school is about learning and getting out in the world, when is there ever time to officially have time for anything?

Quite often, I feel that all school does is transition teenagers into the world of working and no life because we created it and don't know how to stop it. There are so many people out there not doing what they love because, if they do, they won't have enough money to continue living life comfortably. What is it that someone said about the rich becoming richer and the poor becoming poorer? That, soon, there won't be a middle class? Just poor and rich? And who's okay with this?

I sometimes wonder why I even consider such problems. In all reality, I'll live through all of this still going on because, even if it does change, it'll take a crap-load of years until it goes through and I won't be alive when it happens. Sure, I should care about what will happen to my children, but time goes much faster than we believe. I still see myself as a sixteen-year-old, and that sixteen-year-old remembers the days when Josh was a best friend. Of pretending a flotation device was blown up and we were the only ones left alive. Of running around the neighbor's yard from a weiner dog who scored a bite on my right wrist. Of wearing every single necklace I owned in the seventh grade because I couldn't choose which was my favorite.

But, the point of the matter is, I only remember those certain memories. How many times did I eat Mac & Cheese, romp around with friends, never take the time to chew a burger? My mind's erased them. It decided they were unimportant and, without my conscious knowledge, I waved them away, making time seem effortless and unattainable. I want so much in the future because I don't have the time now to really "waste". The future is everywhere. What's at the end of a book? Video game? Tunnel? Blog? Music video? Thought? It's the anticipation of it all, the need to know.

And we'll never really know with us. When does it really "end"? Some believe nothing. Some believe everything.

If I think too much on the matter, it wastes the time I wish to have. Yet, if I don't even consider it, it's looked down upon, that it's too ditzy and irresponsible.

Ah, balance. You just keep coming back to me.

Random Fact: The powder on chewing gum is finely-ground marble.

It's Because I'm A Pisces

Yeah, let's blame it on that.

My mother says she's never seen me this indecisive. But what it really all comes down to is: Do I really want to spend a whole year away from everybody I know and go completely alone into a new atmosphere I know very little about. New Zealand has been what I've wanted for quite some time; I only hesitate because it's this growth of fully becoming an adult, admitting it's time for me to be ready to make it on my own, prove my worth in this world--but what if I'm not ready? What if I think I am and I turn out to be a failure? And I'm in a completely different country with no one to hold my hand and say that they're there for me?

In karate, my teacher always told me when I was ready. He would say that he was testing me on a certain day, but it was really the whole week, but it was really my entire time of ever doing karate that he was watching me. I wouldn't have to feel so nervous because he knew I was ready. It's hard for me to tell when I'm ready; it's seems somewhat over zealous at times for me to say I'm ready because I'd look like a fool if I weren't.

I just have to remember that I can do this--and at any time I want. I'm not going because I told everyone I'm going. I'm not going because it's for school. And I'm definitely not going to get away from anyone. I'm going because I know I need to go, because, as afraid as I am of growing up and finally being on my own, it's something I need to do for myself, that I'm supposed to go there and see what I can do in a world of complete strangers. I did it before, and I'm willing to do it again--just in a bigger community.

I'm damn scared. It's known that college is the place to start de-rooting oneself from the home life, be on one's own. In reality, no one is really on their own. Parents help, the school helps and there are always people around. But it's a whole new ball game on the other side of the world.

I'm turning twenty on Tuesday. Officially not a "punk teen" and just underage enough to consider myself a "youngin".

I've so much to learn.

Random Fact: A ball of glass will bounce higher than a ball made of rubber

Skip-idie-do-da Skip-idie-ay

That's what the bird on my shoulder is saying.

If I were Happy Gilmore, I'd be saying "Skip-skip-skip-a-roo." (Did anyone get that? Just me? Okay.)

Sorry to the fellow classmates who I'm sure at this specific time are wondering if I'll come in those five minutes late and take the stress off their worried souls. I know you'll miss me, but, never fear, Morgan will be able to move on, so trust in his antics to guide you through a lesson you'll later have to tell me about.

Though, in my thought process, I don't believe in excuses for lateness/skipping because what it really comes down to is... you've skipped and/or are late. You could say whatever you want, but, in all reality, you should have been quicker or done things a bit earlier so it wouldn't have happened or just plain gone to class.

However, I'm going to say why I'm "skipping" anyways.

New Zealand demands a class sacrifice, and I had to choose what would be the one that had the most time to spare. On Monday's, I have a good few hours after this particular class, whereas I don't have a second to spare from my other classes. Decision was made; skip this class and have the good few hours behind it to really get the answers I know I'll need.

Wii Play is everything I dreamed and more. I'm completely addicted (surprise surprise) to the mini-game of finding the different Miis. This is the first time in my life I've actually wanted to live in the dorms so I can play against everyone (Anna doesn't play video games...).

Also, I've hurt my foot. It sucks because I kind of use it all the time. Like, every other step. I intend to suck it up.

In other news, since I've gone to the hockey games, I'm now back in love with the game. It's terrible. As I used the camera, I had to remember that I wasn't there to watch the game but tape it for those not able to be in the physical form to do so. As I did the highlights, I had to remind myself to write down those important parts I was screaming/jumping for joy at.

Yup, I'm definitely back in love with my sport. I only wish there could be more.

Random Fact: On a relatively long-distance shot, 60 feet away from the goal, the goaltender will have 0.45 seconds to react.

I'm Tired.

Seriously, though. The title isn't lying. I'm tired.

My roommate very firmly told me today that she was canceling our internet/cable/phone company bill thingy. I was stunned, if only because she walked away immediately after she said this, but I was able to understand why after she muttered the fact that she hated having her name signed on things.

Our "former" roommate, Bruce, hasn't been keeping up his end of the bargain, which is why we were originally able to afford the whole dealy-ma-bob in the first place. She's been paying extra without telling me, and it's difficult to pay for things while in college, especially when we can't get enough hours in at work as it is between classes and the need for sleep. I know too many people taking off semesters because they just can't afford college in general. And they live at their parents' house.

I often take a glance overseas and envy those who are able to get free college. I heard in Cancun, you get free college by just spending six years after you're done committing to that specific college, which pays for your anything and everything. In Sweden, books, tuition, everything is free and anyone can go to college, but taxes are higher.

Can you imagine? anyone being able to go to college. It's a dream come true for most people.

And yet, here I am, almost one-thirty in the morning, sniffles attacking my nose and me wondering if I should officially print out twenty-one copies of a story I wish I didn't have to hand in for a class. Paranoid about the car starting in the morning and the fact that, no matter what, I'll never truly get enough sleep, even if I do try to "catch up".

It's times like these that being an optimist can either bring one down or bring one up. It's easy to say "it has to get worse before it gets better!", yet that doesn't mean it doesn't suck. But giving up is too easy. Lame, really. Trucking along just somehow makes it strong.

I remember my mother once told me that everything always works out best in the end because it's supposed to be that way. She's always told me that I'd know what to do when the time came, listen to my intuition (which has gotten me out of plenty of trouble in the past, along with in trouble) and know it's for a reason. I never really question that, oddly enough.

I suppose when something works, why stop, right?

New Zealand. I'm finding a way to you. Don't worry.

Random Fact: Final Fantasy was named so because the company was going out of business and decided to put everything into that last game, their own final fantasy. Twelve times over, they're making millions and still using the name. And have many boy characters that look like girls.