tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69472240446377640072024-03-14T07:58:22.366+13:00People, Places, and the PalatablePeople I meet, Places I've been, and Things I have eaten.Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-28823245715462556362012-10-19T08:51:00.000+13:002012-10-19T08:51:11.639+13:00The Goose<div class="separator tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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“...Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God..." (Ruth 1:16)</blockquote>
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So, I met this goose the other week when I was over at a friend's to help <a href="http://www.sheep101.info/tails.html">tail some lambs</a>. She's an interesting goose. She came over from a neighboring paddock. The speculation was that she had a big squabble with her partner (<a href="http://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/geese-mate-for-life.htm">as they mate for life</a>), and came across to mingle with the sheep on this paddock! Intermittently, there is loud honking from the paddock she came from. She just ignores him. She has been happy here for the past 2 years.<br />
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There is a lot we can learn from this goose...<br />
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Such is life!<br />
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<br />Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-38210299286004269612012-08-23T11:43:00.002+12:002012-08-23T11:50:07.560+12:00The ArtistI can't help but be astounded by this artist! <a href="http://www.ohiseered.com/">Hong Yi</a> is her name. My brother knows her, but I don't. Anyway, please enjoy some of her work displayed on YouTube.<br />
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Many of us do use the <a href="http://www.funderstanding.com/brain/right-brain-vs-left-brain/">right side of our brain</a> from time to time, and will come up with something that makes our day. Better yet, someone else's day!<br />
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Here's my bit of the friendly/devil dog, Knightly. He's originally Korean who relocated with Bryn's cousin to Canada, and is now a proud supporter of the Canucks!<br />
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So, have a go. Try it out and see what the other half of your brain is capable of! :D<br />
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<br />Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-7567353361110437012012-07-31T19:48:00.000+12:002012-07-31T21:54:20.619+12:00New Beginnings<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I do suffer from times when I thought "What if I have a do-over". The most recent trigger for such thought is my failed-to-rise batch of scones. I changed the recipe by adding more wholemeal flour, over kneading and added too little baking powder despite a little voice in my head saying "Follow the recipe!". So, if I were to do that all over again, I would follow the recipe!</div>
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In just under two years, this exciting new plan for quake shaken and damaged Christchurch city is released. Very exciting indeed. It is a chance for the city to have a do-over. No excuses for "I wish there is more carparking here" or "Why didn't they put a park there" or "Let's go to Auckland or Wellington for the play or that ballet". They released this video yesterday evening to attract investors:</div>
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More detail can be found on this <a href="http://cdn.ccdu.govt.nz/sites/ccdu.govt.nz/files/documents/christchurch-central-recovery-plan.pdf">PDF</a> from the <a href="http://www.ccc.govt.nz/">Christchurch City Council</a>. </div>
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Life often throws us a curve ball. It can be a massive earthquake damaging a city, putting us in a position to rebuild from scratch. It can also be as simple as ruining a perfectly tested recipe by changing it! However, most of the time, the shades of it so gray with the journey so difficult that we often feel as if we are going nowhere.</div>
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If you're one to not believe in anything, then <a href="http://map.gsfc.nasa.gov/universe/uni_age.html">science</a> tells us the universe is about 12 to 14 billion years old, and humans have only been around for 200,000 years. Putting that into a 14 day perspective, humans have only been around for 17 seconds. That would mean you and I as individuals would have only been around for about 8.5 millisecond if we live to 100 years old. </div>
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Relatively, we're like... nothing.<br />
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Don't lose heart.<br />
Don't give up.<br />
Don't fret.<br />
Just live.<br />
There is always a new beginning.<br />
If there is none, just make one up.<br />
Who would find out?<br />
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<i>"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ... You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.</i></div>
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<i>Jeremiah 29:11,13</i></div>
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On the flip side of the coin, is life too short to be following recipes? :D<br />
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<br /></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-21332096877819103292012-07-21T15:55:00.000+12:002012-07-21T18:21:54.371+12:00Egg and Soldiers... and Ceramic Painting<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think it is luxury to have chances to be a child again. Not to re-live my childhood, or anything like that. It was done, and I am happy where I am with an adult brain, job, a doting husband, driver's licence, and the list goes on! But to be child-like amidst life's complexities.</div>
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<i>"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, </i></div>
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<i>for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" </i></div>
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<i style="background-color: transparent;">Matthew 16:14</i></div>
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Growing up, I always wondered about that verse in the bible. Do children get special favor? But don't all children grow up? What then? I think we become more legalistic as we get older, maybe even jaded by responsibilities, bills, commitments, and relationships. We can also be quite hard on ourselves. There is always something we can do better, someone we aspire to be, some things we would like to have and some kilos to lose because the metabolism slows!<br />
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So, sometimes, we forget to smell the flowers, to sing, to trust, and to love. </div>
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In my work, I adore seeing children for their well checks, their colds, their broken arms, vaccination, and others. <span style="background-color: transparent;">It is a chance to be silly - looking for kitty cats in their ears, listening to weetbix in their tummies, giving them neck massages (to feel for lymph glands) and much more. At the end, </span>I enjoy putting a little star stamp on their hands, whether or not there were tears. Because they have been a star. On the other extreme, I do see cases where children get hurt and have their childhood stolen from them due to abuse. Not necessarily sexual abuse, but also neglect, emotional, and physical abuse. </div>
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I dedicate this blog to all children around the world. Let them not be forgotten. I also would like to dedicate this to all people. Let us not forget to be child-like amidst life complexities. </div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><i>Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall,</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><i>Humpty Dumpty had a great fall,</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><i>All the King's horses and all the King's men,</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><i>Could not put Humpty Dumpty together again.</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8yR49_6n-hQ8Q6Q59GLazCa63RZd9cVWJ72cUXs70rqoCuEdB4KFbUy-nYJ38eejIUfC9g9sOm_C5mTABdGFSgYIaRD3nSoIGaoQoROxrynK1COke1E7yUIgjYOHADPmDpym5JvpkDnG/s1600/2012-07-03+21.21.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8yR49_6n-hQ8Q6Q59GLazCa63RZd9cVWJ72cUXs70rqoCuEdB4KFbUy-nYJ38eejIUfC9g9sOm_C5mTABdGFSgYIaRD3nSoIGaoQoROxrynK1COke1E7yUIgjYOHADPmDpym5JvpkDnG/s640/2012-07-03+21.21.46.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ceramic Painting at <a href="http://www.gopotty.co.nz/">Go Potty Ceramic Studio</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The colours brightened after sometime in the kiln</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLBH_5rKGQc3t2sU1GCdbn9_67rZiVkX40J0rE9Y5LswXynRshMssaP2iSOXMzr0Z5aq0Zy2WZWE0mYNmpbMxOVR-o0DQgHzBgvct5-xtSPrU1KjNcw42D-O8GETu_gKGiRKGbAkEh6Dg/s1600/IMG_20120721_080744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLBH_5rKGQc3t2sU1GCdbn9_67rZiVkX40J0rE9Y5LswXynRshMssaP2iSOXMzr0Z5aq0Zy2WZWE0mYNmpbMxOVR-o0DQgHzBgvct5-xtSPrU1KjNcw42D-O8GETu_gKGiRKGbAkEh6Dg/s640/IMG_20120721_080744.jpg" width="544" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egg and soldiers for breakfast on the decorated eggcups</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8k3Dp43_Bz-QsM-JWaEBexjww1-y8tCKGsoWf1vfId_bX_NFrrQHsp2wBNo2pJsNbbnOnzUO2QuxIoxiEh9F2imDo1qlqgnZi-m-dVfmCo7Qhn07PsQ7f7_sK8b02tNKQdHZjLW9Blmi/s1600/2012-07-21+08.09.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm8k3Dp43_Bz-QsM-JWaEBexjww1-y8tCKGsoWf1vfId_bX_NFrrQHsp2wBNo2pJsNbbnOnzUO2QuxIoxiEh9F2imDo1qlqgnZi-m-dVfmCo7Qhn07PsQ7f7_sK8b02tNKQdHZjLW9Blmi/s640/2012-07-21+08.09.20.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-6890096867952003942012-07-15T11:46:00.000+12:002012-07-24T17:31:45.890+12:00Friendly Faces of North America<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: transparent;">I should have read</span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> the </span><a href="http://photography.nationalgeographic.com/photography/photo-tips/?source=NavPhoTip" style="background-color: transparent;">National Geographic photo tips</a><span style="background-color: transparent;"> before going on this trip. Well, next time perhaps. </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">Regardless, let me share with you 5 tips I have learned and found useful for myself.</span></div>
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Tip #5 - Do bring along at least one very good zoom lens. You don't want to be attacked by a mother or hungry bear, or risk swimming with the whale. It is definitely not worth losing the camera in the process of getting the best shot! It is also respectful to these local creatures, of course. It is their home after all.</div>
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Tip #4 - Wear quiet clothing. You know, clothes with materials which do not make noises when you walk. I do not think brightly coloured clothing matter. Do bear in mind the animals <i>always</i> see you. Well, except for this red squirrel we came across in Lake Annette in Jasper, Alberta, Canada. It was engrossed in relocating its hidden nuts from last summer that it was unaware of us observing a couple of feet away. </div>
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Tip #3 - Go out at dusk and dawn. That is when they are out and about. If there is none, you can get some really nice sky/scenery shots in exchange.</div>
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Tip #2 - Pay attention. It is really easy to be distracted by the beautiful scenery around and missed a quietly grazing animal behind a tree, etc. Or to be having a stimulating conversation with your travel companion, or just sleeping because you have been travelling the last 10 hours. </div>
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The top tip in nature photography is patience. Wait long enough and the animals will do something for your shot. Except for when you are in Banff. The animals there are very much used to the noise of passing traffic, and they will carry on grazing through anything. To solve this problem, you may ask your travel companion to open and close the car door with some strength (but not to slam), and then keeping very still and quiet again. This noise will startle the animals to look up for a little, before going back to grazing. Slamming or talking too loudly may risk startling them too much. It is not recommended for their mental health.</div>
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Hm.. Disregard some advice that are just too silly, but do enjoy some of these friendly faces in North America: </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmXWWo2en7iMmnuZAapWfUSqwGtBwcZc3qIncskLXirDFFbKfmSdmVxoNSCJ4YXGyhLEBCReXJ87ivrABWCCPnKvQwRMZTi-aZcKE-BXs8rfU0vR8wFMprz3_vHS-qoOkN0wrXrH_ZHkv/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmXWWo2en7iMmnuZAapWfUSqwGtBwcZc3qIncskLXirDFFbKfmSdmVxoNSCJ4YXGyhLEBCReXJ87ivrABWCCPnKvQwRMZTi-aZcKE-BXs8rfU0vR8wFMprz3_vHS-qoOkN0wrXrH_ZHkv/s640/1.jpg" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squirrel @ Vancouver</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2EQ-P456dVzcuaHclahyHPgiIUFwVc7NSVuuofI0g-siGuiB2Vgn5RiazmvYBPfxAAuwewtSSjQG9rAqstRr7ZJYOxpUnhGUV19o908PnVILwjKufz7xYFmNFCJQm6VhWof_M5ipBNKD/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2EQ-P456dVzcuaHclahyHPgiIUFwVc7NSVuuofI0g-siGuiB2Vgn5RiazmvYBPfxAAuwewtSSjQG9rAqstRr7ZJYOxpUnhGUV19o908PnVILwjKufz7xYFmNFCJQm6VhWof_M5ipBNKD/s640/10.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canadian Geese, @Lake Medicine, Jasper, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREtTCLavd2ofsFw7wkXcKnA5MPGN5gbkfOwt94WeOYIeTY1JnEjBxbLxC5un0FWR69RbrtT5M_9lc1yDgGYIe_aF-UfGzDOi2QC1nSaPfHOe8rW1a-Sh4eZExOzCuDfgK5ZUjet_dNXQ0/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREtTCLavd2ofsFw7wkXcKnA5MPGN5gbkfOwt94WeOYIeTY1JnEjBxbLxC5un0FWR69RbrtT5M_9lc1yDgGYIe_aF-UfGzDOi2QC1nSaPfHOe8rW1a-Sh4eZExOzCuDfgK5ZUjet_dNXQ0/s640/11.jpg" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heron @ Victoria, BC, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirp3NYzDe98iIlp59Mzohj7KS4N721HydppiOTf4ItZZnzNXe2Yu9kF6kKrG71TZP6v1JAh4zd9M4V78wsB5dGFivQW2etiRzF6nGNRs4tU9rC7Ud91F0Nom9OegneHfciiRKdqSTwNsx5/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirp3NYzDe98iIlp59Mzohj7KS4N721HydppiOTf4ItZZnzNXe2Yu9kF6kKrG71TZP6v1JAh4zd9M4V78wsB5dGFivQW2etiRzF6nGNRs4tU9rC7Ud91F0Nom9OegneHfciiRKdqSTwNsx5/s640/12.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black-billed Magpie @ Banff, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jOa4zQsQ1p5FEhL2AMymQNSn8FOAL1810815wU5RqmIPRRNQ_FjUD9xDy5sVZDTC6LStYOIpITc79z4z8RAKZYX9xcies29m3RC58MXWYGhyphenhyphenokvCPqKS7X4f5V-omQrLcsckM-Rz9JL9/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jOa4zQsQ1p5FEhL2AMymQNSn8FOAL1810815wU5RqmIPRRNQ_FjUD9xDy5sVZDTC6LStYOIpITc79z4z8RAKZYX9xcies29m3RC58MXWYGhyphenhyphenokvCPqKS7X4f5V-omQrLcsckM-Rz9JL9/s640/13.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bald Eagle @ Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island, Seattle, WA, USA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeeaiAizhCtTKfL2n0CqB_PwunviAbNaKPrDIDB2FiYN8JPI5aajK6aJpGzrbiajjAwylv65IXLmW8w3BMIPgywxu7CEPo91-rlYjTJAefG-UxbxGleOl3q75aEGvx5IrUd8HVRM7emd-/s1600/14.5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeeaiAizhCtTKfL2n0CqB_PwunviAbNaKPrDIDB2FiYN8JPI5aajK6aJpGzrbiajjAwylv65IXLmW8w3BMIPgywxu7CEPo91-rlYjTJAefG-UxbxGleOl3q75aEGvx5IrUd8HVRM7emd-/s640/14.5.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ospreys and its young @ Banff, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilTCmjPxtAuHOjShHJmMq1sNAyVb_t050X4jKdEGMi-HVJXEwLS8nyrf5-UewsUdx31qr35oNGk8cO_IVMlrz-8ctusfmXtirAOTOyaoEoPqWm7pOwnhROP-rqI6mCjFDn7g5aNER53HqC/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilTCmjPxtAuHOjShHJmMq1sNAyVb_t050X4jKdEGMi-HVJXEwLS8nyrf5-UewsUdx31qr35oNGk8cO_IVMlrz-8ctusfmXtirAOTOyaoEoPqWm7pOwnhROP-rqI6mCjFDn7g5aNER53HqC/s640/14.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seal @ Fisherman's Wharf, Victoria, BC, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYEsTb2yE_dJYoKPijxLbGGkjv8f6z8SbJnn9x9qRJKdy0xbVs1GG64jM3Ow215dSM9t0gfdRH5Esf4qZbUrFoeFQcwF9GAj5IMBJDgsBfo_bG5YtgMDeOWzub46VOV_A4uRZhJll8LXG/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYEsTb2yE_dJYoKPijxLbGGkjv8f6z8SbJnn9x9qRJKdy0xbVs1GG64jM3Ow215dSM9t0gfdRH5Esf4qZbUrFoeFQcwF9GAj5IMBJDgsBfo_bG5YtgMDeOWzub46VOV_A4uRZhJll8LXG/s640/15.jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whale @ Tracy Arm, Alaska, USA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GnVhByKo1k6nchkg-oZR6-SJKfeHN5x5UwdREnB569C3xEBJc6Z3KH6QlJTpwcwl8YcV1_jcxg_7EDWGpLJeJQ7ibrek8iXJm-3b6t3gAp1g-IJ86A7AWHroUCg3V1DnjHAbIccWeMNy/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GnVhByKo1k6nchkg-oZR6-SJKfeHN5x5UwdREnB569C3xEBJc6Z3KH6QlJTpwcwl8YcV1_jcxg_7EDWGpLJeJQ7ibrek8iXJm-3b6t3gAp1g-IJ86A7AWHroUCg3V1DnjHAbIccWeMNy/s640/16.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama and Baby Brown Bears @ Tracy Arm, Alaska, USA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgNcIjRiUrKqzQ-PbGqBbZ2NnkSJcct1mMMw_s5dN38bHnaPKuNP9W-P06XNV0OiKfTgiVaBQ9od-TunJZx3KDki46mJexelHZpGOJgtoW69og6DkgKuaYD8cq7pv4ULcpAFhSG8_V_dZ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgNcIjRiUrKqzQ-PbGqBbZ2NnkSJcct1mMMw_s5dN38bHnaPKuNP9W-P06XNV0OiKfTgiVaBQ9od-TunJZx3KDki46mJexelHZpGOJgtoW69og6DkgKuaYD8cq7pv4ULcpAFhSG8_V_dZ/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground Squirrel @ Banff, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EiYl1QsHb7CXwbG8q-dPaAhddax48sHr3becBtxpgf41eacxhE0Y4bLs0U2U5mqhuDpFdI4ii7MIH2vycXPPAN8kyrUeqicDAn5N2yHHodKxgISIYv-wvzirgUsGnWQnF2RFEOX9YWZv/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EiYl1QsHb7CXwbG8q-dPaAhddax48sHr3becBtxpgf41eacxhE0Y4bLs0U2U5mqhuDpFdI4ii7MIH2vycXPPAN8kyrUeqicDAn5N2yHHodKxgISIYv-wvzirgUsGnWQnF2RFEOX9YWZv/s640/3.jpg" width="484" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjxMiXBBdBTb-bPkLQJ1HV-p-_neOpKGA4xx9LIuYNoWdYi5-I5lQguE3j9mwvFWgmCxWS-A0c4VB_2A4-FDqFKSoDS8Cq7e2uOV3dRdextzd6Gv2mT6Xa1tNH6kDD1YxMdwI13qK_9E7/s1600/4.5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjxMiXBBdBTb-bPkLQJ1HV-p-_neOpKGA4xx9LIuYNoWdYi5-I5lQguE3j9mwvFWgmCxWS-A0c4VB_2A4-FDqFKSoDS8Cq7e2uOV3dRdextzd6Gv2mT6Xa1tNH6kDD1YxMdwI13qK_9E7/s640/4.5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden Mantle Squirrel @ Johnson's Canyon, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRf82Sm0chwQggZBe1f-cMw4bJfmsPBymlicOti6QaV8k56JhE9A6cmDYmey6pByjCF-YWzu6FeOqwC2nkoINx-zZmC6u04n_nTzgyN7zsWegVc9Pc0eSfn9us4DSafCNKdxlbIMvfJ0m/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhRf82Sm0chwQggZBe1f-cMw4bJfmsPBymlicOti6QaV8k56JhE9A6cmDYmey6pByjCF-YWzu6FeOqwC2nkoINx-zZmC6u04n_nTzgyN7zsWegVc9Pc0eSfn9us4DSafCNKdxlbIMvfJ0m/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Squirrel @ Lake Annette, Jasper, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvm58wUtk8NOp4ooL6F99b-pRmEkQ-ViGyRu6EpunjNL2e7L0Zc7vzQjTKXm_p68X3XXEC0tlEYEz5tMIETkXlMh6F8fspsA9H2Fg6ZHir_PFkYbCBMKmMw2UmaoOiFQPPudY4h5hTY3n/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvm58wUtk8NOp4ooL6F99b-pRmEkQ-ViGyRu6EpunjNL2e7L0Zc7vzQjTKXm_p68X3XXEC0tlEYEz5tMIETkXlMh6F8fspsA9H2Fg6ZHir_PFkYbCBMKmMw2UmaoOiFQPPudY4h5hTY3n/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elk @ Bear Hill Lodge, Jasper, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGu1RpGAQjI6MIIPFdIzkrSzAksM5aoK0RSJ-jzzLu29auTiYKqSD6fX1__03bXM5KYN5_K0UEbGwPE2-feCNdPKjxPR0cLDGKdv0EtHkCBD7cash7511tc7IJo_-hgYsKCghpcbQlBpj/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGu1RpGAQjI6MIIPFdIzkrSzAksM5aoK0RSJ-jzzLu29auTiYKqSD6fX1__03bXM5KYN5_K0UEbGwPE2-feCNdPKjxPR0cLDGKdv0EtHkCBD7cash7511tc7IJo_-hgYsKCghpcbQlBpj/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer @ Banff, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6uGK5Ugk47qYP2H97wNWycRrnRncMDkLvYs-ZEPLoZSblZD6pwQFxOOwtUncVPRb8qmq_SANXlLl_d0T4FlBIVP54ptBYQmtpLn4aAnvr3WphbJg5JozIJ5szYujyY37ih3I5Djncp7m/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6uGK5Ugk47qYP2H97wNWycRrnRncMDkLvYs-ZEPLoZSblZD6pwQFxOOwtUncVPRb8qmq_SANXlLl_d0T4FlBIVP54ptBYQmtpLn4aAnvr3WphbJg5JozIJ5szYujyY37ih3I5Djncp7m/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doe @ Banff, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrjaY1Y9nN1v47nn2DSlQdzgJCITShVSszkuWRoIPqwIghyphenhyphenZ80lkUKZtytuZe31OiYJe5Ug56_cwWED7RXicDrNHaBjif9ko5TIInDBQTVyEJkrvzLBukeDJCpXofGNXnFy4ksqb0-4KL/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrjaY1Y9nN1v47nn2DSlQdzgJCITShVSszkuWRoIPqwIghyphenhyphenZ80lkUKZtytuZe31OiYJe5Ug56_cwWED7RXicDrNHaBjif9ko5TIInDBQTVyEJkrvzLBukeDJCpXofGNXnFy4ksqb0-4KL/s640/8.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bighorn sheep @ Icefield Parkway, AB, Canada</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfxdqQOKA7r58GWa27PKm-b9HqP4KrlWmtDFo0SX2xXZIHWq-MU9r3KwbsfrzuVTejg0gYDhF_dSkcISG5Zwwi6konNYKQP5WD-OXf7PQ4Me2LdjTe-fxlXYrHc4oHUTuDs7yqcfLkpZJ/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfxdqQOKA7r58GWa27PKm-b9HqP4KrlWmtDFo0SX2xXZIHWq-MU9r3KwbsfrzuVTejg0gYDhF_dSkcISG5Zwwi6konNYKQP5WD-OXf7PQ4Me2LdjTe-fxlXYrHc4oHUTuDs7yqcfLkpZJ/s640/9.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bashful Female Bighorn sheep</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM89lAbh385APtK7BtE941-b052f7JOJ4L3JKrRFfY_BV9tQgihh7Vf7gorBZklput3XBXn4ACs3UYeMu5wSwLUI1DlQx15zD43GIUPXEY8Npgx6PJWmI2AdrY_ko3soZNyQPAO3WjlC7b/s1600/P5082604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM89lAbh385APtK7BtE941-b052f7JOJ4L3JKrRFfY_BV9tQgihh7Vf7gorBZklput3XBXn4ACs3UYeMu5wSwLUI1DlQx15zD43GIUPXEY8Npgx6PJWmI2AdrY_ko3soZNyQPAO3WjlC7b/s640/P5082604.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown Bear @ Icefield Parkway, AB, Canada</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIC_ypWvlBk6RsFV9beefTNmVdwCAaFOs-VzpiSUBncL_TRrPAk7CPLXU6B71S8ei58SOBtEVBHyq-RkueLR_hQufU85tjN4zO_Oczj7e0cnHkoS6GwE6pz_I64tAuzaIa7nX9eElVwCQs/s1600/P5082609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIC_ypWvlBk6RsFV9beefTNmVdwCAaFOs-VzpiSUBncL_TRrPAk7CPLXU6B71S8ei58SOBtEVBHyq-RkueLR_hQufU85tjN4zO_Oczj7e0cnHkoS6GwE6pz_I64tAuzaIa7nX9eElVwCQs/s640/P5082609.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbU4_8NbhJ_CGmnPu1qLiSs_jmYZwnKmvCxT4oMIb3UXPqfFPb3Txq6ev59pALdFYOsBSDKbpkL2DoCxepNeDw_O5eqfVePSfzJFG0pOxEOHkF3mdHhiz8XZzA8bFXHikFevdKRMdMviVQ/s1600/P5304280+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbU4_8NbhJ_CGmnPu1qLiSs_jmYZwnKmvCxT4oMIb3UXPqfFPb3Txq6ev59pALdFYOsBSDKbpkL2DoCxepNeDw_O5eqfVePSfzJFG0pOxEOHkF3mdHhiz8XZzA8bFXHikFevdKRMdMviVQ/s640/P5304280+(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Bear @ Klondike Highway, Yukon, Canada</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAf4nVLq4V3LRomsm4KzpuDU7Mlhm9LsD5ntO4c6utSpNopjAFZlpweMgJvRx6emnaXNe1a8jKmLove_v25_yv-yQkAoWL_jrHmldbNJIs9R-y4yBt4rYONZ2VLnKgQw1pbMFBvH7HotG/s1600/P5304284+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAf4nVLq4V3LRomsm4KzpuDU7Mlhm9LsD5ntO4c6utSpNopjAFZlpweMgJvRx6emnaXNe1a8jKmLove_v25_yv-yQkAoWL_jrHmldbNJIs9R-y4yBt4rYONZ2VLnKgQw1pbMFBvH7HotG/s640/P5304284+(2).jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-18797915423820032462012-06-15T17:36:00.001+12:002012-07-15T11:51:39.013+12:00The HolidayerThe person on holiday.<br />
<br />
Bliss.<br />
<br />
An opportunity arose to travel again, this time is for my sister's wedding in Columbus, Ohio. As a result, Bryn and I recently enjoyed an extended holiday to USA and Canada.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Total 9 days in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada<br />
Total 10 days on a Rocky Mountain Road Trip, Canada<br />
Total 1 day in Drumheller, Alberta, Canada<br />
Total 6 days in Columbus, Ohio, USA<br />
Total 3 days in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada<br />
Total 8 days on an Alaskan Cruise with the Holland American Line<br />
Total 5 days in New York City, USA<br />
Total 5 days in Seattle, Washington, USA</blockquote>
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Things we did -<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5H6Mr_npKEdZxjtBMw_hlrJLOetK8ehy23puNpGPOuunIxGGOl5jhBAIF70E3frmMUj1_denb1gNTZ4mwp-V6APpUlYbJudUJ15oRcCS5JEBxC4vWdabB-Ykf8Ts2lHrePZKv4PO8iYCS/s1600/P5012055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5H6Mr_npKEdZxjtBMw_hlrJLOetK8ehy23puNpGPOuunIxGGOl5jhBAIF70E3frmMUj1_denb1gNTZ4mwp-V6APpUlYbJudUJ15oRcCS5JEBxC4vWdabB-Ykf8Ts2lHrePZKv4PO8iYCS/s640/P5012055.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">observed baby squids, and other marine life at the Vancouver Aquarium</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpwY0TY2Q1PXzUx7dMSMrJ4LBIJNQtrccyY2V9wqwVBvXTm5pw7Y3oegOMVgrxGbMCRyouC9_mvAdmW_Ly5SU0o_vvDJFH4J3H4saKNHEnxt1HSbsYIMmyTYM3VDEBsnydzlqmIxXur2p/s1600/P5062431+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpwY0TY2Q1PXzUx7dMSMrJ4LBIJNQtrccyY2V9wqwVBvXTm5pw7Y3oegOMVgrxGbMCRyouC9_mvAdmW_Ly5SU0o_vvDJFH4J3H4saKNHEnxt1HSbsYIMmyTYM3VDEBsnydzlqmIxXur2p/s640/P5062431+%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ate bear's paws in Jasper National Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IHwddtTb9OWV7EAFlWQpuEEYCWuahnZ522oAAgLmc-naQP2L_FuDXYjSIcmdd-H57hnaToEP4Wvx0h3hMsZvOeJYLy6yA8Xqfc1DyDJ5qCShILgsTFBkZoNeMcue0Km1ZTiRDTaPLOve/s1600/P5072542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IHwddtTb9OWV7EAFlWQpuEEYCWuahnZ522oAAgLmc-naQP2L_FuDXYjSIcmdd-H57hnaToEP4Wvx0h3hMsZvOeJYLy6yA8Xqfc1DyDJ5qCShILgsTFBkZoNeMcue0Km1ZTiRDTaPLOve/s640/P5072542.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tabogganed down the Whistlers, Jasper National Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJxKLWhfIjEXBeKDGKmgAwx27PAlsJh0JTjmQc0F3A937RPmFBh50UDrmzY4ZA8BePEbsAcubs8W1D_sUIBcpb5mf0AriHcyNnivd2V8tJa8LPzhJ3gFDiTbmcwV5HURcDXS9XN5yr3C9/s1600/CIMG3557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJxKLWhfIjEXBeKDGKmgAwx27PAlsJh0JTjmQc0F3A937RPmFBh50UDrmzY4ZA8BePEbsAcubs8W1D_sUIBcpb5mf0AriHcyNnivd2V8tJa8LPzhJ3gFDiTbmcwV5HURcDXS9XN5yr3C9/s640/CIMG3557.JPG" width="569" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ran away from a T-Rex in Drumheller</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91au81yayv2nL8zAuDKM8ED-NPZlsZ_H87tJhVfu2T3Jk717xd6NRV-8x9IYzRZszTGoqDDglT75731zm789GryJn4hKWBNpV0UZFNHZ2QvgfIs_e9ldHqzpGQrctghNRifnajjdh5xHz/s1600/P5153221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91au81yayv2nL8zAuDKM8ED-NPZlsZ_H87tJhVfu2T3Jk717xd6NRV-8x9IYzRZszTGoqDDglT75731zm789GryJn4hKWBNpV0UZFNHZ2QvgfIs_e9ldHqzpGQrctghNRifnajjdh5xHz/s640/P5153221.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">saw downtown Manhattan from Top of the Rock</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRs_pbLIl5SPpFhocwJAIicbQlRRFU79FrnY9L76TLSGadm-Z3rlTmyTZTmkNhksPW2PjHSLf9oVwmXjpeTZYn5WdwDaSJguBvbGHJupHtJbBHksmsgosmMBJpV3QwFUTlnMkNzq68Etp/s1600/2012-05-13+21.09.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRs_pbLIl5SPpFhocwJAIicbQlRRFU79FrnY9L76TLSGadm-Z3rlTmyTZTmkNhksPW2PjHSLf9oVwmXjpeTZYn5WdwDaSJguBvbGHJupHtJbBHksmsgosmMBJpV3QwFUTlnMkNzq68Etp/s640/2012-05-13+21.09.02.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">entertained by... strange things in Times Square, New York City</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFvJ6fUDYfjq3V1t6pMsqV3Au9d9iIeQAoReE9-wNJf7PHmuOCYlSLbPCREGsy7aXhi8OoMkFRfqrfCV_2I_gfsKsO678RIUwSsZbTPgpFqWbPH-L-NW12fWgnr6UWhtTZEqOZJxu5oep/s1600/2012-05-16+14.16.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFvJ6fUDYfjq3V1t6pMsqV3Au9d9iIeQAoReE9-wNJf7PHmuOCYlSLbPCREGsy7aXhi8OoMkFRfqrfCV_2I_gfsKsO678RIUwSsZbTPgpFqWbPH-L-NW12fWgnr6UWhtTZEqOZJxu5oep/s640/2012-05-16+14.16.25.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">read strange things in Columbus, Ohio</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixV6ewC5xQbo-m_p2lr2rNGjgWKtiA5CNwauThGH1jU6pAZ0gxSPXbjQFVmgwSp-Nn3T0-xAOL8sOUWoBBUP1GsoJA99-VqsKrT_VD5wdWoTyCqpao9As44Vw4PxDAo03jkNxzro_M7oN3/s1600/IMG_20120519_220924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixV6ewC5xQbo-m_p2lr2rNGjgWKtiA5CNwauThGH1jU6pAZ0gxSPXbjQFVmgwSp-Nn3T0-xAOL8sOUWoBBUP1GsoJA99-VqsKrT_VD5wdWoTyCqpao9As44Vw4PxDAo03jkNxzro_M7oN3/s640/IMG_20120519_220924.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">witnessed my sister's marriage to her sweetheart, Jimmy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJQghUnK8ahDCPp2IoHe1t6qSUb_J8vN1Bo6Vg5v56v_DS_sLLR0y1aB2lQrTTeyotjhGaSBXHOB_N9HVwofBCOvPZJ66mujROFN9V27k295xcjnWhG1eoe4xhTrcxvBbamWYVQx6mz1dr/s1600/2012-05-24+10.55.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJQghUnK8ahDCPp2IoHe1t6qSUb_J8vN1Bo6Vg5v56v_DS_sLLR0y1aB2lQrTTeyotjhGaSBXHOB_N9HVwofBCOvPZJ66mujROFN9V27k295xcjnWhG1eoe4xhTrcxvBbamWYVQx6mz1dr/s640/2012-05-24+10.55.30.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">compared height in Seattle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mFwAyzhbEoV1XaLD7Gt1Nxe6iAUgtmf9yUG9s4fo3LmiMpiEylv9pFkxd22Dtqhq4-i0H1t2LUUiO3f-MkSJ8TTpLqTiNhWR4Xr32qMgpBOHs-QZJ2DcK5R7kCAiq2oauM9Q6EQRKQJv/s1600/P5223632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mFwAyzhbEoV1XaLD7Gt1Nxe6iAUgtmf9yUG9s4fo3LmiMpiEylv9pFkxd22Dtqhq4-i0H1t2LUUiO3f-MkSJ8TTpLqTiNhWR4Xr32qMgpBOHs-QZJ2DcK5R7kCAiq2oauM9Q6EQRKQJv/s640/P5223632.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">enjoyed toilet humour in Seattle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCxrRAfPLRG-DL1km7-mxNPbYmt2arJ6EcwQr_U-Jn6i_UYG2efNqHxyOObTDFl_hzon4eK5ABYV_zqzLRdQnabg5vaTVO5yYJIIzXb0a9Ttyk1ftWKl9-lHCiwJMhudxDF3YG_EDYDPV/s1600/P5263919+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCxrRAfPLRG-DL1km7-mxNPbYmt2arJ6EcwQr_U-Jn6i_UYG2efNqHxyOObTDFl_hzon4eK5ABYV_zqzLRdQnabg5vaTVO5yYJIIzXb0a9Ttyk1ftWKl9-lHCiwJMhudxDF3YG_EDYDPV/s640/P5263919+(2).JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">strolled along the pier in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZ4lrB6CA3CicfO96XXBAK3XIgf8ZgKPaf4lRvjMl5m5H-IDPy-iwwVP3e_jIPXRpZgrrVQ7HZb50Zc4CSl-XLD9Mai-M3u1H5F97Thqw3yki7RxDL0i8AQPFHQ6qfHKvRgk4uPKze4e-/s1600/P5294233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZ4lrB6CA3CicfO96XXBAK3XIgf8ZgKPaf4lRvjMl5m5H-IDPy-iwwVP3e_jIPXRpZgrrVQ7HZb50Zc4CSl-XLD9Mai-M3u1H5F97Thqw3yki7RxDL0i8AQPFHQ6qfHKvRgk4uPKze4e-/s640/P5294233.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">listened to local music in Juneau, Alaska</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCOvBXngTFYQs-EQIYmL2nVBRNhqQg7lklG_Llt9rXn4pZnaqY_Ry6X6_0nYbXVB1fTBTbtRhoc-s1vcspFuW4m8cb6HgxjXH9RJaBcb5NTntiNySLOVM16r9Zc_9EnogHttoPsF7Y79V/s1600/P5294241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCOvBXngTFYQs-EQIYmL2nVBRNhqQg7lklG_Llt9rXn4pZnaqY_Ry6X6_0nYbXVB1fTBTbtRhoc-s1vcspFuW4m8cb6HgxjXH9RJaBcb5NTntiNySLOVM16r9Zc_9EnogHttoPsF7Y79V/s640/P5294241.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">drank local produce in Alaska</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIggjSIEMFwwpKVVSaTCWOAgvBPlQDCSlBFDVi6qR4_vips2tgyb60xjRchqwfTGJc0p1BGXU6ghgNbtQLHI2O464y2v675YykBLEBAOFmcCshpdjIUulzVfv_B6yzCKUZO3SHKROg5eN/s1600/P5304273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIggjSIEMFwwpKVVSaTCWOAgvBPlQDCSlBFDVi6qR4_vips2tgyb60xjRchqwfTGJc0p1BGXU6ghgNbtQLHI2O464y2v675YykBLEBAOFmcCshpdjIUulzVfv_B6yzCKUZO3SHKROg5eN/s640/P5304273.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">crossed the border into the Yukon Territories, Canada</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86SuZywqfFk4DK_zdf178tLZIUHnc3MGt7MZqUyvhSlfbiz6jvbA_243kMjp08zQfZTwkUsKHlgGTx5EN2vERYHDl4zdRoEX64hAb-XuBz4d_4sHxZFZjBZJrWlIDByTMevNQhPn1_MpP/s1600/2012-05-30+11.53.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86SuZywqfFk4DK_zdf178tLZIUHnc3MGt7MZqUyvhSlfbiz6jvbA_243kMjp08zQfZTwkUsKHlgGTx5EN2vERYHDl4zdRoEX64hAb-XuBz4d_4sHxZFZjBZJrWlIDByTMevNQhPn1_MpP/s1600/2012-05-30+11.53.44.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sailed amidst glaciers in Glacier Bay, Alaska</td></tr>
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<br />
Bliss.<br />
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<br /></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-86688790365228243622012-04-12T16:39:00.000+12:002012-06-14T14:09:23.534+12:00PoutineWho would have thought? In fact, what were they thinking?<br />
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A combination of fries, curdled cheese and gravy?!<br />
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A popular dish in Quebec, Canada it is!</div>
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I personally find it strange as the French are renowned for their fine cuisine and delicate presentation. Surely it must be unlike them to throw some fries and cheese together before topping it off with a dollop of hot gravy! How sloppy! Maybe it's the Irish influence? I mean, they do like their potatoes, right?<br />
<img alt=";) winking" id="yui_3_2_0_16_133420512937387" src="http://mail.yimg.com/ok/u/assets/img/emoticons/emo3.gif" style="background-color: #242424; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: none; cursor: pointer !important; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;" /><br />
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;">The </span><a href="http://www.montrealpoutine.com/history.html" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;">history</a><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;"> of its making has been an interesting read. The word translates to "mess", and its creation is only less than 50 years ago. Apparently, a guy walked into a French takeaway shop and asked for curdled cheese to be added to his order of fries. The owner then told him that "it is going to be messy!", but he took no heed and went away pleased. This soon became a popular snack (before low-carb, Atkins and low-cal diet fads, of course). But it was restauranter </span><a href="http://www.jucep.com/" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;">Jean-Paul Roy</a><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;"> who added </span><a href="http://culinaryarts.about.com/od/sauces/r/chixveloute.htm" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;">velouté sauce</a><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;"> to it as well as a </span><a href="http://www.jucep.com/images/marquecommerce.gif" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;">patent</a><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 12px;"> in the 1950s! This invention slowly spreads and various modifications of tomato sauces, cheese sauces and even BBQ sauces!</span><br />
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We did enjoy the dish very much when in Quebec City in 2010 for our honeymoon. Absolutely brilliant!<br />
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Bringing this back to New Zealand, we decided to make our own version of poutine just the other night! We had some leftover of beef stew and feta cheese. To make it more kiwi, we have used oven baked kumara chips. That was dinner with a bed of salad on the side!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimXT3Xv3StqQB8G6Kkgz8W7_ZAkkPAt7rX5r3XOiwFUvm_G2VxQCkKH0O61tw4VLZdj_QgZSy7lcir-KmJMTcsITAW4PgrFdY_t42pKx1yyThDJKarDM-aU5BxSxFklNL_rf9XPf37tStw/s1600/2012-04-04+18.33.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimXT3Xv3StqQB8G6Kkgz8W7_ZAkkPAt7rX5r3XOiwFUvm_G2VxQCkKH0O61tw4VLZdj_QgZSy7lcir-KmJMTcsITAW4PgrFdY_t42pKx1yyThDJKarDM-aU5BxSxFklNL_rf9XPf37tStw/s640/2012-04-04+18.33.19.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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It was pretty good!</div>
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</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-76998343627187004882012-03-10T14:26:00.000+13:002012-06-14T09:18:44.223+12:00HaggisStill along the <a href="http://oliviacurrie.blogspot.co.nz/2012/03/of-academia-and-scottish-heritage.html#!http://oliviacurrie.blogspot.com/2012/03/of-academia-and-scottish-heritage.html">Scottish</a> theme... I decided to make Haggis. Yes, from a tin!<br />
(I thought it may just be too weird to ask the local butcher for lamb's lungs)<br />
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So, what is this Haggis?<br />
<br />
Well, essentially it is sheep offal sausage with special seasoning and spices, oats and a "wee dram" of whisky! Scottish women use to turn offal to haggis for their herdsmen when they have to drive cattle in the highlands. It was also the share of the workmen in the slaughterhouse when a V.I.P wants a cattle to be slaughtered for meat.<br />
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Always, however, be wary of falling for an invite to a "<a href="http://www.kebriggs.com/haggis/hunts.html">Wild Haggis Hunt</a>" when visiting Scotland. I guess even if you do, it is always fun to run around :)<br />
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I have yet to try freshly made Haggis. Conveniently, a can of premium Haggis can easily be purchased from a British expat grocery store - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Johnsons-Grocery/116657505034817?sk=info">Johnson's Grocery Store</a>. They were located on Colombo Street, of Christchurch but have since relocated to the new <a href="http://www.restart.org.nz/">Re:Start Cashel Street Container Mall</a> after the <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/photos/4688271/Christchurch-quake-the-first-images">earthquake</a> in September 2010.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBahU1zlDaFNNTbNFtYlfXg9tD1Q2hNUfYS2oAz5dsOB66sTDuNnVJpxRkFYAPw-nRv4Kfeo7Ap_KMAGM05_kaQjCljPjrl4pglZd9J6bjtmJvZpvQXYZigignShZUjrWcc4h9SvAPmiC/s1600/2012-03-04+12.55.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBahU1zlDaFNNTbNFtYlfXg9tD1Q2hNUfYS2oAz5dsOB66sTDuNnVJpxRkFYAPw-nRv4Kfeo7Ap_KMAGM05_kaQjCljPjrl4pglZd9J6bjtmJvZpvQXYZigignShZUjrWcc4h9SvAPmiC/s640/2012-03-04+12.55.38.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64dpC5UWb8WT9wUNa97OVxqJKDh-9CtE2KsYc41zg3xXLh1aF5WfYHUrQ8oLDfW_mrgYJYe6QtG0FyeLUfcxjhyphenhyphenoNVKM_JWb_SfiwzHC7jPq9ZP78Xw2w-ZGKY5BvWjzL7kHOUdeZR8sg/s1600/2012-03-04+12.55.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64dpC5UWb8WT9wUNa97OVxqJKDh-9CtE2KsYc41zg3xXLh1aF5WfYHUrQ8oLDfW_mrgYJYe6QtG0FyeLUfcxjhyphenhyphenoNVKM_JWb_SfiwzHC7jPq9ZP78Xw2w-ZGKY5BvWjzL7kHOUdeZR8sg/s640/2012-03-04+12.55.58.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Method:</div>
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(don't forget the "wee dram" of whisky!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX0euf7LtJ-vvKTw2T8JTog873qwh9iwrRmX8v2yFAw1HAndpyVQO7xA-IWXVMN-d_o5Z7u1xv4UpP1rn2pE9SsZwUOjbDyNZqeJCTvcme_p0Uo-UYmTp8vnVSfXMQNakHpUXUfz22Bebq/s1600/2012-03-04+12.56.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX0euf7LtJ-vvKTw2T8JTog873qwh9iwrRmX8v2yFAw1HAndpyVQO7xA-IWXVMN-d_o5Z7u1xv4UpP1rn2pE9SsZwUOjbDyNZqeJCTvcme_p0Uo-UYmTp8vnVSfXMQNakHpUXUfz22Bebq/s640/2012-03-04+12.56.08.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEiIhXDniTj6l4szbyIWodcIflgixMb5zh9C1-nKeMw5EvtgfDP5fpOr741EyzHtbDQbBRlDhidOkX6rJ7lJGHXO58Wz_zp8C0Midonu7Id-qbrQwNPJ5dilz4eNHtAkfIWnTR50B2QJo/s1600/2012-03-04+12.58.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEiIhXDniTj6l4szbyIWodcIflgixMb5zh9C1-nKeMw5EvtgfDP5fpOr741EyzHtbDQbBRlDhidOkX6rJ7lJGHXO58Wz_zp8C0Midonu7Id-qbrQwNPJ5dilz4eNHtAkfIWnTR50B2QJo/s640/2012-03-04+12.58.48.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Serve on cracker:</div>
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or with mash, veggies and gravy!<br />
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Ith gu leòir! (Eat plenty!)</span>
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<br />Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-61543565008618007652012-03-04T21:28:00.000+13:002012-06-14T09:16:27.671+12:00Of Academia and Scottish Heritage<br />
<br />
"Edinburgh of the South" is what Dunedin is in New Zealand.<br />
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It never really began with the Scots settling in this area, however. It essentially started with <a href="http://history-nz.org/discovery2.html">Captain James Cook</a> (the dude who mapped out New Zealand) sailing around in the 1700s and noticed seals and penguins in the area. He told people about it and later attracted sealers, eventually leading to the area becoming a whaling port in early to mid 1800s. It is the <a href="http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/dunedin-history/gold-rush">Gold Rush</a> in mid 1800s that lead to a population explosion - of Irish, Italians, Germans, French, Jews and the Chinese.<br />
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Still no Scots?<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/dunedin-history/scottish-heritage"><span style="background-color: black; color: #ffffff; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">"Late nineteenth century visitors, like the <i>French</i> political scientist Andre Siegfried, the <i>Irish </i>land radical Michael Davitt and the inimitable Mark Twain, were struck by the city's Scottish character. Although immigration from Scotland has declined to almost nothing, the Scottish character of the city remains intact"</span> </a></blockquote>
So, they eventually came, but never really stayed. (Fair enough as it is pretty cold down there!)<br />
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Nevertheless, it has left a strong influence in Dunedin's architecture, street names, religion and its "<a href="http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/dunedin-history/scottish-heritage">passionate enthusiasm for education</a>". This laid the first stone for the establishment of New Zealand's first university - <a href="http://otago.ac.nz/">University of Otago</a>, and also the first medical school in the country!<br />
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Today, Dunedin is a lively student town (its students known as "<a href="http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/otago-places/7/2">Scarfies</a>") with rich Scottish heritage.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhy-ncqIxD6f5_0OOZgDJtryBnHOG_bAX6XvlJvKKhpebkSZBbiSc7HdhIam_iSuQ0WzQo3KXp7gYSrZizp-ubK9u39995ti1dRKQLbjmAhT2hyFwnfGij0KW1JZhyphenhyphenYS6ruP8NowkDcRd/s1600/2012-02-19+09.01.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhy-ncqIxD6f5_0OOZgDJtryBnHOG_bAX6XvlJvKKhpebkSZBbiSc7HdhIam_iSuQ0WzQo3KXp7gYSrZizp-ubK9u39995ti1dRKQLbjmAhT2hyFwnfGij0KW1JZhyphenhyphenYS6ruP8NowkDcRd/s640/2012-02-19+09.01.01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Bagpipe competition</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFxUNqw5Juej6QHa6qBQubb0QsvvAgl6wwR72UDxIeJfq3J7RQxl_8AMi823PxM2AtUpIyERYtHqO7_lXEO_71kj27aDRRsuQaXlek3WTBMaeWN6FzyMZnWpU42n4cVQVR7Aord3tLw1N/s1600/2012-02-18+19.08.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFxUNqw5Juej6QHa6qBQubb0QsvvAgl6wwR72UDxIeJfq3J7RQxl_8AMi823PxM2AtUpIyERYtHqO7_lXEO_71kj27aDRRsuQaXlek3WTBMaeWN6FzyMZnWpU42n4cVQVR7Aord3tLw1N/s640/2012-02-18+19.08.23.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> New restaurant in town, small diversion from the theme!<br />
The owners relocated here after the Christchurch Eathquake where they use to run "Two Fat Indians"</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeaBoUhLXCJaKKD8oSRxtFo-axv4zPBkR2QzjX26MlzWhmbB7H_dw_iutAPOjoZHgzDtE1QCPbvNHZVBt9zmm8wnMS8us3Z3dKTLVeGAy48M86Li8E5Jo14a79o2OMGx8FR7yiO_7EHHBo/s1600/2012-02-18+19.07.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeaBoUhLXCJaKKD8oSRxtFo-axv4zPBkR2QzjX26MlzWhmbB7H_dw_iutAPOjoZHgzDtE1QCPbvNHZVBt9zmm8wnMS8us3Z3dKTLVeGAy48M86Li8E5Jo14a79o2OMGx8FR7yiO_7EHHBo/s640/2012-02-18+19.07.01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Inside </span><a href="http://www.madlybritish.com/index.php?route=common/home" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">Madly British</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"> - They were serving the Royal Wedding Tea for a limited time during the Rugby World Cup 2011</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQchZ822TQ1uS1JEMg_wNx7MWbNJKquDSX7gsr1fHuAnfaJuSF0NhfoFTIwmm8HNsbQgD7gjFawqGAZfUo0luIa4US2ZOWr87Vdnpjkvv2Lg8YxSJFd67RjdoAqBVGWbrW8t5S8qzV_OJu/s1600/P2111543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQchZ822TQ1uS1JEMg_wNx7MWbNJKquDSX7gsr1fHuAnfaJuSF0NhfoFTIwmm8HNsbQgD7gjFawqGAZfUo0luIa4US2ZOWr87Vdnpjkvv2Lg8YxSJFd67RjdoAqBVGWbrW8t5S8qzV_OJu/s640/P2111543.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Otago Farmer's Market - Weekly on Saturdays from 8am to 12pm</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXv3tACFTVjPvtEtSe0qoL-Z_aQicakxd2JYG-ydsCVLtuvYUwwaozhupj-d-gulOI7FtgmGgfoUb7mc_YEt39Z7FcpbHSG9WLNms40DXzBsNrDARnS9_qvnFwCBfS1KERxUN2wPDOLEuB/s1600/P2111550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXv3tACFTVjPvtEtSe0qoL-Z_aQicakxd2JYG-ydsCVLtuvYUwwaozhupj-d-gulOI7FtgmGgfoUb7mc_YEt39Z7FcpbHSG9WLNms40DXzBsNrDARnS9_qvnFwCBfS1KERxUN2wPDOLEuB/s640/P2111550.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Serves breakfasts! Top with the fresh summer fruit when we went!</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5Ij9kR2RtLawhxjTmM3CvtcrVphQBpuqs6TWpaz22ilRu9NiM0kscrqTCr6Fwd28pRpFjSyYe0KN8vvURnETg51Zu3Kn8raxT0yjjPX9Gi7DujIxsov-ytWFlKjKdFORLbWdm5HIVFXp/s1600/P2111556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5Ij9kR2RtLawhxjTmM3CvtcrVphQBpuqs6TWpaz22ilRu9NiM0kscrqTCr6Fwd28pRpFjSyYe0KN8vvURnETg51Zu3Kn8raxT0yjjPX9Gi7DujIxsov-ytWFlKjKdFORLbWdm5HIVFXp/s640/P2111556.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Cheese Makers from award wining </span><a href="http://www.evansdalecheese.co.nz/" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">Evansdale Cheese</a>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3R4idlfaa6_wFidQnfUSl3Lt_WgilyCUGszR8FxMLoCC39e0gVNx9U44im-oEtGfueQAo63IoiQxWyD8iZTfpeFunMIHuL7vVY-g_lcNFuD-4n40b_keUdTYtnHzfteSwEGneXtBCXh0W/s1600/P2111560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3R4idlfaa6_wFidQnfUSl3Lt_WgilyCUGszR8FxMLoCC39e0gVNx9U44im-oEtGfueQAo63IoiQxWyD8iZTfpeFunMIHuL7vVY-g_lcNFuD-4n40b_keUdTYtnHzfteSwEGneXtBCXh0W/s640/P2111560.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">The Iconic Dunedin Railway station with beautiful architecture.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">The start of the </span><a href="http://www.aatravel.co.nz/101/info/Otago-Rail-Experience.htm" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">Otago Rail Experience</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"> - </span><a href="http://www.aatravel.co.nz/101/" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">top 101 Must-do in NZ</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iIrzDBsWFmpXxXbstxg6pFG1S9PUdKlT1QESPxJWlWXPMb6hcytHwOYmCpkWquHmbeFOODQ6QGS4PmCkGQlh4P1iy-D-2YNGHeHnQYlbyBFlz4UzDMkjoKgLYAAAWIrAZNwyD5K4D1-O/s1600/P2111577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iIrzDBsWFmpXxXbstxg6pFG1S9PUdKlT1QESPxJWlWXPMb6hcytHwOYmCpkWquHmbeFOODQ6QGS4PmCkGQlh4P1iy-D-2YNGHeHnQYlbyBFlz4UzDMkjoKgLYAAAWIrAZNwyD5K4D1-O/s640/P2111577.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">The most beautiful bookshop I have ever been to - </span><a href="http://www.unibooks.co.nz/" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">The University Bookshop</a>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNP6Zr8gq-CjWE0k5BDG_8_Wk71QBNRWADGigiGxYn75js3BQXbj5_KAS0ROMd_U4w9f0bq1GK5crCT-PoA6I44kXsoHEE-1q_rqqaGZvEVlf63V5Up_MxXetqeRZ-UnmDCYDAJl58mqj/s1600/P2111585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNP6Zr8gq-CjWE0k5BDG_8_Wk71QBNRWADGigiGxYn75js3BQXbj5_KAS0ROMd_U4w9f0bq1GK5crCT-PoA6I44kXsoHEE-1q_rqqaGZvEVlf63V5Up_MxXetqeRZ-UnmDCYDAJl58mqj/s640/P2111585.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Sunday Family Fun at the </span><a href="http://www.dunedin.nz.com/octagon.aspx" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">Octagon</a>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWDVaIU6sKPPoINn4bVDtwjJ_pSB9OdxP0n90Dyx8qMRtjEKhPxJDptXXpsfM3vPUH3khC6PNrVNdaGOQssmHfiaj7MIVmTHSL-nkd3M5NBZxVjOKZCcCJC9mbJryKx8q-8iTj2CBcKLN/s1600/P2111597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWDVaIU6sKPPoINn4bVDtwjJ_pSB9OdxP0n90Dyx8qMRtjEKhPxJDptXXpsfM3vPUH3khC6PNrVNdaGOQssmHfiaj7MIVmTHSL-nkd3M5NBZxVjOKZCcCJC9mbJryKx8q-8iTj2CBcKLN/s640/P2111597.JPG" width="532" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.albatross.org.nz/" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">Royal Albatross Centre</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"> - an albatross breeding centre in the Otago Peninsula</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLyy5W8l8PoGA-0bsByzmr2eriVBeqYBwuud6YYFccehXEzhdwal9hvndAsfXbW-Cmp4rGN22qISnY_HcwSZzo619LrxyhDIhyjq8ZRjRe2T8FGPhx7s8i5dRQAvAFrr1p-Z-l79qA4_y/s1600/P2111603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLyy5W8l8PoGA-0bsByzmr2eriVBeqYBwuud6YYFccehXEzhdwal9hvndAsfXbW-Cmp4rGN22qISnY_HcwSZzo619LrxyhDIhyjq8ZRjRe2T8FGPhx7s8i5dRQAvAFrr1p-Z-l79qA4_y/s640/P2111603.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.larnachcastle.co.nz/Home.aspx" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; background-color: white; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">Lanarch Castle</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"> - Essentially a really fancy house built by William Lanarch (of scottish descent!) for his first wife. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Construction began in 1871 and completed 16 years later in 1887</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYDAnHx1yGnJSJbDWFt1InmZefMnKSzSY2MYlyVd12HsND8Sghaaitw2Nsdt2npQgP7Y-4ICYctGsGPJEfCNrmX8TjJh0gU9ryQnWHZ50DuUMGmAA-_aQiwzPyB-XfltlMXtRD6heiklx/s1600/P2111628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYDAnHx1yGnJSJbDWFt1InmZefMnKSzSY2MYlyVd12HsND8Sghaaitw2Nsdt2npQgP7Y-4ICYctGsGPJEfCNrmX8TjJh0gU9ryQnWHZ50DuUMGmAA-_aQiwzPyB-XfltlMXtRD6heiklx/s640/P2111628.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Saint Clairs Beach</span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkB9na3yN-QHhSiZv4sPOajlaLh6tUR1UJIfCQV9HFjLURxHRTq4bZQ29U-bSeOGm5dz9ggUb2NXV9ODxDDUgQ0B-iDl8jIa-HEi7ALzz8F74a2WsZrwjgFwKVkiZ9TfIVx_MEalOiAzz1/s1600/P2121874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkB9na3yN-QHhSiZv4sPOajlaLh6tUR1UJIfCQV9HFjLURxHRTq4bZQ29U-bSeOGm5dz9ggUb2NXV9ODxDDUgQ0B-iDl8jIa-HEi7ALzz8F74a2WsZrwjgFwKVkiZ9TfIVx_MEalOiAzz1/s640/P2121874.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Steepest street in the World - <a href="http://www.dunedin.nz.com/baldwin-street.aspx" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; color: #009eb8; display: inline; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">Baldwin Street</a><br />
There is a gift shop at the bottom of the hill for one to get a certificate after the "great" hike, should you fancy one ;)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoGhioW6fnzYH6L9riV_tBol2_yHSPzZDIx_6-2-JfFqGwixeoYcKVFl0BuV9WbRqqApdnPlmYehyphenhyphenvCsvb9zJQZyO6AJYNH6aRF2XIQa09oajxjLpw1GjfaQpRlX3QcSiB93dATY4q9zB/s1600/P2111575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoGhioW6fnzYH6L9riV_tBol2_yHSPzZDIx_6-2-JfFqGwixeoYcKVFl0BuV9WbRqqApdnPlmYehyphenhyphenvCsvb9zJQZyO6AJYNH6aRF2XIQa09oajxjLpw1GjfaQpRlX3QcSiB93dATY4q9zB/s640/P2111575.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.historic.org.nz/TheRegister/RegisterSearch/RegisterResults.aspx?RID=62&m=advanced" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.3s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: initial; color: #009eb8; display: inline; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">University of Otago Registry Buildings</a> (the Clocktower)<br />
- built with Oamaru stones and such grand architecture to commemorate the Scottish' commitment for higher education</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 19px;">Sapere Aude - "Dare to Know"</span>
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<br />
Getting there:<br />
<ul>
<li>Fly with <a href="http://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/">Air New Zealand </a>or <a href="http://www.jetstar.com/nz/en/home">Jetstar</a>. Bear in mind that Dunedin Airport is 30min out of town. Taxi or shuttle into town are NZD70-80 and NZD25 respectively.</li>
<li>Bus with <a href="http://www.intercity.co.nz/">Intercity</a>, <a href="http://www.atomictravel.co.nz/">Atomic</a>, and <a href="http://nakedbus.com/nz/bus/">NakedBus</a> from larger cities. Consider <a href="http://www.trailjourneys.co.nz/tj-travel/tj-trips/Catch-A-Bus/">CatchaBus</a>, if in Otago and Southland districts.</li>
<li>Drive - 357km south from Christchurch (4.5 to 5 hours)</li>
</ul>
<br />
Places to stay:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.hotelstclair.com/">Hotel St. Clair</a> - away from town but right by the beach! Apartment type accommodation and located between town and the Otago Peninsula.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.accommodate-me.co.nz/PL468/Dunedin-Dunedin-Accommodation/Mandeno_House">Mandeno House</a> - cosy and friendly private hotel, and bed and breakfast on George Street (main Street) just a few blocks away from the university and town shopping area.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.755regalcourtmotel.co.nz/index.html">755 Regal Court Motel</a> - basic, comfy and everything nice! Voted "Best Value" on Tripadvisor.com.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br />
Places to eat:</div>
<div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.madlybritish.com/index.php?route=common/home">Madly British</a> - English cuisine with patriotic expat decor</li>
<li><a href="http://www.etrusco.co.nz/">Etruso</a> - An Italian restaurant of casual dining with a twist! I imagined many first dates here!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.saltbar.co.nz/">Salt Bar and Restaurant</a> - No seaview from this beachside restaurant and bar, but food is good, especially after a walk on the beach! Opens for lunch/brunch and dinner</li>
<li>Crepe Stall - at the Otago Farmer's market, Dunedin Railway Station. Open only on Saturday mornings</li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0Dunedin, New Zealand-45.8787605 170.5027976-45.967197 170.3448691 -45.790324 170.6607261tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-58248809141231857752012-02-14T13:30:00.001+13:002012-02-14T13:30:52.895+13:00The Best of #55Me: Happy Valentine's day!<br />
B: Happy Valentine's day to you too! What did you get me?<br />
Me: er....<br />
B: What?! You didn't get me anything??<br />
Me: Well, what did <i>you</i> get me??<br />
B: You'll just have to wait and see!<br />
<br />
So, here's my dedication and valentine's day present to my beloved <span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">♥</span><br />
<br />
Presenting, the best of #55!<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(double click on a picture to start slideshow)</span><br />
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<i>If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.</i></div>
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<i>~1 Corinthians 13:1-4</i></div>
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May everyday be Valentine's Day for us <span style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">♥</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></span>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-48600289514184062942012-02-13T11:16:00.000+13:002012-02-13T11:16:32.086+13:00Chocolat!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="File:Mayan people and chocolate.jpg" height="508" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/56/Mayan_people_and_chocolate.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Mayan chief forbidding someone to touch the jar of chocolate! <br />
(Taken from Wikipedia)<br />
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Mmmmm... Chocolate....<br />
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I think the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chocolate">Maya and Aztec peoples</a> in older civilization definitely knew the idea! Well, it was so good back then that it was only used as offerings during religious rituals (I'm sure God wouldn't mind chocolate). It then gradually became a tax currency as civilization advanced. Somehow, it became a norm and a popular drink in Mexico, South and Central America. They call it "bitter water" (<i style="background-color: transparent; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">xocolātl) </i>and is sometimes fermented to form chocolate liquor! The Mayas were also first to add chilli to their chocolate. Then the Europeans came along and added milk and sugar to it! </div>
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I am so glad the rest of the world gets to share it now - used regularly as a daily de-stressor, and its use peaks during Christmas, Easter, Valentines, and as gifts. Especially, when you're told not to bring anything to a party/event!</div>
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New Zealand manufactures chocolates too. The two favourite brands of <a href="http://www.cadbury.co.nz/">Cadbury</a> and <a href="http://www.whittakers.co.nz/">Whittakers</a>.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeO02qJpfcOYsC2yM3PnCUYBGSGHfu5RW1RAL3iCPqDunKw4W1sWd1oYyUxNq5-2_ESGYjGHeEDoBGKl9kLHdu38DDnyyWFz1ubLEV-52jfoL5vjsf7iG1NHrJhBqqAOFzqxCTTvbE_OD5/s1600/P2111563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeO02qJpfcOYsC2yM3PnCUYBGSGHfu5RW1RAL3iCPqDunKw4W1sWd1oYyUxNq5-2_ESGYjGHeEDoBGKl9kLHdu38DDnyyWFz1ubLEV-52jfoL5vjsf7iG1NHrJhBqqAOFzqxCTTvbE_OD5/s640/P2111563.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cadbury World, Dunedin, New Zealand.<br />
Fun Facts from them:<br />
Q: Which British explorer helped deprived England of Chocolate for 100 years?<br />
A: Sir Francis Drake - He dumped sacks of cocoa beans from captured Spanish Ships<br />
Q: How much chocolate is eaten around the world each year?<br />
A: 1.5 Billion kilograms!</td></tr>
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Nowadays, it is always a treat to have coffee/catch up/gossip sessions in chocolate specialty cafes! You will get the likes of these:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3KvHcg9f9EBAP75ckU2FoOxweJqN-F0OaIxbleE3vDZJaG4mq4HtDeI0-FtWkwN2E-kV-2Qi5TSeQOW7IsxxCzklX_kXTsej8A9bTrz3Na9sxmDuivvS9VCMG7q-c7xuUW5VVIhEImmx/s1600/2012-02-04+15.00.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3KvHcg9f9EBAP75ckU2FoOxweJqN-F0OaIxbleE3vDZJaG4mq4HtDeI0-FtWkwN2E-kV-2Qi5TSeQOW7IsxxCzklX_kXTsej8A9bTrz3Na9sxmDuivvS9VCMG7q-c7xuUW5VVIhEImmx/s640/2012-02-04+15.00.47.jpg" width="486" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She Chocolat's Ginger Hot Chocolate<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sE0yHVSac11Qa0cOTZe06V3Y6whVWIluI5EPQWKAqDJTBLARvveEcoPwBeENb7b0rKKNq0t_4LNoqtfNbkbmPnfuPc5V2hu8YzDtan7Bxs7qNJXCZ_cAIctVNmL8wN8lTdVqRl4GRfIp/s1600/2012-02-04+15.00.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sE0yHVSac11Qa0cOTZe06V3Y6whVWIluI5EPQWKAqDJTBLARvveEcoPwBeENb7b0rKKNq0t_4LNoqtfNbkbmPnfuPc5V2hu8YzDtan7Bxs7qNJXCZ_cAIctVNmL8wN8lTdVqRl4GRfIp/s640/2012-02-04+15.00.54.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She Chocolat's Chocolate Lovers Platter <br />
- of assorted chocolate, truffles, dips, ice cream and brownies!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Lj1GqKccgQ2YO1gl_qr4PyrhWdP0OusR-vuEhFC4NCE6Z9J-wO7HqaeZhVayBkNgvpJnmxKV5g_uB_EKXssSfzS4O6bT3S9iiA7JzgtWfs6hZQU1PhJ43LJOWzgBIAFKW1dazlxslt2s/s1600/2012-02-04+15.01.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Lj1GqKccgQ2YO1gl_qr4PyrhWdP0OusR-vuEhFC4NCE6Z9J-wO7HqaeZhVayBkNgvpJnmxKV5g_uB_EKXssSfzS4O6bT3S9iiA7JzgtWfs6hZQU1PhJ43LJOWzgBIAFKW1dazlxslt2s/s640/2012-02-04+15.01.05.jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She Chocolat's Chocochai with chocolate spoon and melted chocolate!</td></tr>
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In Christchurch, New Zealand, my favourites are:</div>
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<li><a href="http://www.shechocolat.com/">She Chocolate</a>, Governers Bay</li>
<li><a href="http://www.chocolatelounge.co.nz/">Theobroma Chocolate Lounge</a>, Riccarton</li>
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In Wellington, New Zealand, they are:</div>
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<li><a href="http://www.butlerschocolates.com/">Butlers Chocolates</a>, Willis Street</li>
<li><a href="http://chocolatefishcafe.co.nz/home">Chocolate Fish Cafe</a>, Miramar/Shelly Bay</li>
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I am sure there are lots more of it in the rest of New Zealand, and even in the world. I'd welcome suggestions from your town/city. Maybe as teamwork, we can make a "Best Chocolate Cafes in the World" blog ;)</div>
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At the meantime, Happy Valentines from me, and have some chocolate!</div>
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<br /></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0New Zealand-40.900557 174.88597100000004-52.594595 165.89780200000004 -29.206519 -176.12586tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-73269457674822422972012-02-05T18:17:00.000+13:002012-02-07T08:19:39.825+13:00Wildfoods Fest of X-Factor Foods!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every March since 1990, sleepy town Hokitika comes to life because of its increasingly popular <a href="http://www.wildfoods.co.nz/">Hokitika Wildfood Festival</a>! A festivity of young people, families and X-Factor foods!</div>
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There is always something for everybody. It's food type ranges from wild boar sausages, scallops, tuna, paua patties, whitebait sandwiches to huhu grubs, beetles, pukeko, muttonbird and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Testicle_(food)">mountain oysters</a>! Cooked in all manner - raw, barbecued, deep fried, boiled and even chocolate coated!</div>
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Of course, there are drinks too. Also ranges from nice sweet drinks like elderflower champagne, honey drinks, Rhubarb bubbly to X-Factor worm shots, fruit juice slug and stallion protein shots!</div>
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Nothing for the fainthearted, but only for the adventurous!</div>
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The festivity is made livelier with music and entertainment throughout the day. Yes, they have cooking shows too!</div>
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These are some of the pictures taken from our visit in 2010.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlKZOYiUwprhd0totP_1aq6HYaLKbbeR_dWyTrj_RWY4eod4dO_iWh2qGiaAjRCLdLzZx3bKKnsTL4VniZWSgg5lxlU97k_mjn5MaEHV5eIwgj7MkBltLJmrczMVyH1FtbleXhbUzTKfA/s1600/P1000673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlKZOYiUwprhd0totP_1aq6HYaLKbbeR_dWyTrj_RWY4eod4dO_iWh2qGiaAjRCLdLzZx3bKKnsTL4VniZWSgg5lxlU97k_mjn5MaEHV5eIwgj7MkBltLJmrczMVyH1FtbleXhbUzTKfA/s640/P1000673.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Worm shots</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ly8c5CkEMt6Ec5xo8h8E0mqGr_-SP76MsVHlk1oK-F68DVMKwLvquX2jMkwiH3Q2-FtAOWPqvcgeWB9Nab2kPWvwETVcF6K-qoT3OWNFfUVFRVnA85-tZb2Agu4BwYD7aRSm0xI2AH_H/s1600/P1000677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ly8c5CkEMt6Ec5xo8h8E0mqGr_-SP76MsVHlk1oK-F68DVMKwLvquX2jMkwiH3Q2-FtAOWPqvcgeWB9Nab2kPWvwETVcF6K-qoT3OWNFfUVFRVnA85-tZb2Agu4BwYD7aRSm0xI2AH_H/s640/P1000677.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beer Battered Beetles and Chocolate Beetles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia0bSH_NLlh4D8ioF967UXb6WnqjxuAVmQcQc0c1hYS1BKf5uNOxxTrspLz2gelYX7aP4zafrM2RXfnflI96WxC_El7DQ8AzU9wdmi1viFW3WqvPhv9XWBXfEOy2a5YR6n8eEI2hn0z3j-/s1600/beer+battered+beetle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia0bSH_NLlh4D8ioF967UXb6WnqjxuAVmQcQc0c1hYS1BKf5uNOxxTrspLz2gelYX7aP4zafrM2RXfnflI96WxC_El7DQ8AzU9wdmi1viFW3WqvPhv9XWBXfEOy2a5YR6n8eEI2hn0z3j-/s640/beer+battered+beetle.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wanting to escape?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstFMpRH3njJZKwx64xASzhM-MuKfvyRILg2hIA63GSWJ5KjepCs7GdkQzevkGcedW7ZrNCU_b2Qdh7b8qBnvj416otC4POeTZP-dreSdC3TP9SpOP4VagMGnExfAbyruhpfUCJEEn9pPB/s1600/P1000682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstFMpRH3njJZKwx64xASzhM-MuKfvyRILg2hIA63GSWJ5KjepCs7GdkQzevkGcedW7ZrNCU_b2Qdh7b8qBnvj416otC4POeTZP-dreSdC3TP9SpOP4VagMGnExfAbyruhpfUCJEEn9pPB/s640/P1000682.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*phew* Just eaten the chocolate bits!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is seriously a lot of fun and must be tried at least once!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tickets do go on sale every October the year prior. This year (2012), they are $39 per entry from <a href="http://www.ticketdirect.co.nz/">www.ticketdirect.co.nz</a>, plus additional costs for food and drinks purchased at the event.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u>Getting there</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Drive </li>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">256km from Christchurch via Arthur's Pass, or </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">50km from Greymouth, or </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">151km from Westport.</li>
</ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Fly - to Westport or Hokitita with <a href="http://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/">Air New Zealand</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Train - from Christchurch to Greymouth on the <a href="http://www.tranzscenic.co.nz/tranzalpine/?gclid=COPs9PmHhq4CFQVLpgodIHx75g">TranzAlpine</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(*Most scenic)</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u>Accommodation</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.stumpers.co.nz/">Stumper's Bar and Cafe</a> (yup!) - clean, cheap and surprisingly quiet! Food is pretty good too.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.beachfronthotel.co.nz/">BeachFront Hotel</a> - never stayed but looks good.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Do also check out the <a href="http://www.hokitika.org/visitor-information/">Hokitika Information website</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/b74Ldk-O7AI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-47047860043449544732012-01-19T14:01:00.001+13:002012-01-19T14:07:46.046+13:00Spying out the Spy Valley<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Waihopai Valley is located amongst the many vineyards in Malborough, and it is also where <a href="http://www.globalsecurity.org/intell/world/new_zealand/gcsb.htm">New Zealand's Intelligence Agency</a> is based. Hence, the name "Spy Valley"! Its warm and dry climate with multiple underground steams in the region makes the land rich for farming before it became a wine region. It is now most famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. When visiting at harvest season (late March/ early April), the whole area will smell as if someone has just opened a large bottle of it!</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We often spend long weekends visiting the in-laws in this region as it is only a 4 hour drive from Christchurch. We will be spoilt by their most awesome hospitality, and also by the serenity of the place. In exchange, we offer our services of berry and fruit picking, grape counting (there is method to the madness), house cleaning, cooking and entertainment of card and board games! Usually, there is more play than work! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I think my in-laws have done very well indeed in cultivating this 20 acre of land, making it sustainable. I reckon they would only do the 30 minute trip into town for friends, meetings and errands. They would otherwise have everything here!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQPxpu_yswMsSm-ll69fiWzF-0fTbT6hkKWeBK_l_Ra1hgkeXiUuQhsv7BYCt0uuvEqobkDxh6KQJXV_2qZwd9C1I-dEysY4kAVz9JY63DGdXgqOYGVEmkWW2TjnDTiMhfXdGVITgxMsu/s1600/PC270596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQPxpu_yswMsSm-ll69fiWzF-0fTbT6hkKWeBK_l_Ra1hgkeXiUuQhsv7BYCt0uuvEqobkDxh6KQJXV_2qZwd9C1I-dEysY4kAVz9JY63DGdXgqOYGVEmkWW2TjnDTiMhfXdGVITgxMsu/s640/PC270596.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of their home from the front</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrZwjIQLyea0a0jENNG1IPUJeCLIy9dZ11dmHcSRW30jAHiR2CzrwBqyni_Bmmd-Em25P3zz7YzQ4HowlfugqJQaWBc-ugdA12KrHom1R5S-MR5oXhoTvYBosWBtk5DnHAeX1fRfHO4A4/s1600/PC270587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrZwjIQLyea0a0jENNG1IPUJeCLIy9dZ11dmHcSRW30jAHiR2CzrwBqyni_Bmmd-Em25P3zz7YzQ4HowlfugqJQaWBc-ugdA12KrHom1R5S-MR5oXhoTvYBosWBtk5DnHAeX1fRfHO4A4/s640/PC270587.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the back</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcAnBBmTQmsz28OrUYuTreR0mA-wFXUhlHd2WGCagT_05ChqqUU83wJ8RSHY70y3t2eWnR3UX0yT6_t-tzjJpnmHGftqSk9DOgb__CyAnMrYWiz0OwfgX4jS8HR4n1PBnMlLshQ_CQs63/s1600/PC270593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcAnBBmTQmsz28OrUYuTreR0mA-wFXUhlHd2WGCagT_05ChqqUU83wJ8RSHY70y3t2eWnR3UX0yT6_t-tzjJpnmHGftqSk9DOgb__CyAnMrYWiz0OwfgX4jS8HR4n1PBnMlLshQ_CQs63/s640/PC270593.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Man Cave" and pottery studio</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-ozFy0RRm_zqNVfQ9t_Zjc5UV8iFRvxw11dohmVAUWF3M_Ticol70iIf37xu1u-F9ajr0_lMEnBWuDNQ8EmPEJQUyyK4F-BYGGB0Lg0qUgGq1NMVRWj_QbKVDLjrl69aOah18Ls15M1M/s1600/PC270601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-ozFy0RRm_zqNVfQ9t_Zjc5UV8iFRvxw11dohmVAUWF3M_Ticol70iIf37xu1u-F9ajr0_lMEnBWuDNQ8EmPEJQUyyK4F-BYGGB0Lg0qUgGq1NMVRWj_QbKVDLjrl69aOah18Ls15M1M/s640/PC270601.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The veggie garden and the "Bunny House" <br />
(Berry House - a case of difficult-to-read handwriting that worked out well!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iLigDE6AsPr98CE-2MVHNl0fHiXJc-OmBKCB3d5Oxr1RoDHaSfjQkfjEbDfbtGrIBvopFWDr2W1Vz379H8N8CdEIXTU2kV9jPxLnyVeLqtjfxpFpIymoHHdw-agmkrpkORLT-6MEc9-e/s1600/PC270583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iLigDE6AsPr98CE-2MVHNl0fHiXJc-OmBKCB3d5Oxr1RoDHaSfjQkfjEbDfbtGrIBvopFWDr2W1Vz379H8N8CdEIXTU2kV9jPxLnyVeLqtjfxpFpIymoHHdw-agmkrpkORLT-6MEc9-e/s640/PC270583.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olive trees</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqbS5OPUN12tJXP-uCp5LV7pGrf63irPA4wWM_I5xxOu9UY3QMd5fH4ESVpnwIqOlbv7g7ps_MIhP-oLnFW4J6KFtuH4A9bK5ZCOdmMUsAFvL8hzsva2tNKwne1GDE2Fu9nZJV7V9JcGN/s1600/PC270581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqbS5OPUN12tJXP-uCp5LV7pGrf63irPA4wWM_I5xxOu9UY3QMd5fH4ESVpnwIqOlbv7g7ps_MIhP-oLnFW4J6KFtuH4A9bK5ZCOdmMUsAFvL8hzsva2tNKwne1GDE2Fu9nZJV7V9JcGN/s640/PC270581.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Garden and outdoor eating area with grape vines over the top</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gRimC_n2nvG37FPjefAZ3wB_ZwaRCqU7fYzS7AhvFRr4B3iC7r-Q9UubbllzSPEw1-XjL7vZBIH40NRX5Qe9ja9-naKpThhWsARiw7Az84dHLXXy3rv3PdVM9wEyS3f-XeNAoe-6AJT_/s1600/PC270604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gRimC_n2nvG37FPjefAZ3wB_ZwaRCqU7fYzS7AhvFRr4B3iC7r-Q9UubbllzSPEw1-XjL7vZBIH40NRX5Qe9ja9-naKpThhWsARiw7Az84dHLXXy3rv3PdVM9wEyS3f-XeNAoe-6AJT_/s640/PC270604.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sauvignon Blanc Grapes and the windmill </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<b>Nearest Town: </b><br />
Blenheim (23km)<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Neighboring Vineyards (and our favourites):</b><br />
<br />
<ul><li><a href="http://www.grovemill.co.nz/">Grove Mill Winery</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.spyvalleywine.co.nz/">Spy Valley Wines </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.forrest.co.nz/">Forrest Estate Wines</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.witherhills.co.nz/">Wither Hills Vineyards</a></li>
</ul><div><br />
</div><br />
<b>Specialty Shops</b><br />
<br />
<ul><li><a href="http://www.makana.co.nz/">Makana</a> - Handmade chocolates and other natural temptations!</li>
</ul><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>**NB: With permission, this place is also for sale for anyone who may be interested. They are very keen to retire! Check it out <a href="http://www.trademe.co.nz/property/lifestyle-property/auction-432865938.htm">here</a> or <a href="http://www.marlboroughrealestate.co.nz/index.cfm?pagecall=property&propertyID=1933347&CFID=80459281&CFTOKEN=37545859&jsessionid=8430abc29f6d3f689fdd642e64c661d1b502">here</a>.</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0Waihopai Valley, New Zealand-41.6365342 173.6465961-41.847751699999996 173.3469191 -41.4253167 173.9462731tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-5503563433199734702012-01-17T09:53:00.001+13:002012-01-23T12:23:38.743+13:00Nuts, Fruit and Berries!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It is always a pleasure to visit my in-laws at <a href="http://oliviacurrie.blogspot.com/2012/01/spying-out-spy-valley.html">Waihopai Valley</a>. We're so often spoilt by their hospitality, and the serenity of their home. What I do like best is the their little orchard, which bears the sweetest fruit! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKNVvCiXL8dHjbiAypp0Ln8TSHi9cbT3YJ0dNGxRdZ5O8chlszHJp12-IodIY1e04N3OIz-CzVcXXFAwWoFGQOf9e5KoD3cxGl5fo-OqCZXpeduVpNM7ETgSAnf2ellYtWwMhKKUsvpEA/s1600/PC270605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKNVvCiXL8dHjbiAypp0Ln8TSHi9cbT3YJ0dNGxRdZ5O8chlszHJp12-IodIY1e04N3OIz-CzVcXXFAwWoFGQOf9e5KoD3cxGl5fo-OqCZXpeduVpNM7ETgSAnf2ellYtWwMhKKUsvpEA/s640/PC270605.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Gooseberries - There was an era of Gooseberry cultivation competition just a couple of centuries back. So, it does come in a few variety of colours and tastes. This green one is sweet with a bit of tartness. We are thinking of turning these into muffins.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wczYGcpSbU2AQC83w5_11nnwGRB-kuOLa2o3j5oWRBd0ppxeFMqce1ofFkd3Wg9PmQZL_MGonTRw8uvAg1TDlGGglFD7YACAxKvYUR9_NdA21ZAgFAF_g_fpoI0GQiciCDBIWWyUBcBs/s1600/PC270612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wczYGcpSbU2AQC83w5_11nnwGRB-kuOLa2o3j5oWRBd0ppxeFMqce1ofFkd3Wg9PmQZL_MGonTRw8uvAg1TDlGGglFD7YACAxKvYUR9_NdA21ZAgFAF_g_fpoI0GQiciCDBIWWyUBcBs/s640/PC270612.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I reckon nothing beats strawberries! The most romantic of all fruit!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ms8EjBeSL9mIqU2vGg6lOt9n7Fxmik9RRgD3YVsVYjYmdLS56BuY65y_DU_Ci3n-NV9D9mUu0os8kMjgJbqaMwXFKfo-61bXz5n9eIwz3AQELao_YLzp1D10dEvbZbMbDVmGdJ4PpJlb/s1600/PC270616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ms8EjBeSL9mIqU2vGg6lOt9n7Fxmik9RRgD3YVsVYjYmdLS56BuY65y_DU_Ci3n-NV9D9mUu0os8kMjgJbqaMwXFKfo-61bXz5n9eIwz3AQELao_YLzp1D10dEvbZbMbDVmGdJ4PpJlb/s640/PC270616.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Currants. Yup - fresh! I know it's a summer fruit but it always look so Christmassy! <br />
I like them in cereal with yoghurt, on Pavlovas and Fruit Tarts</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZTumDPKASFVJTXNuKe5B7c_nXiyuvRuDnsQVzzodTWV7cM8M0Cs3fyvG4FqUFKlb7uVfGXbyPHthfOniY8my16XjfD-nweZUGW5VULYcUe6Cagmj6JUPwpENzhcvZ3MKKNuBGXRdWhgq/s1600/PC270621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZTumDPKASFVJTXNuKe5B7c_nXiyuvRuDnsQVzzodTWV7cM8M0Cs3fyvG4FqUFKlb7uVfGXbyPHthfOniY8my16XjfD-nweZUGW5VULYcUe6Cagmj6JUPwpENzhcvZ3MKKNuBGXRdWhgq/s640/PC270621.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mmmmm....Lemon!<br />
Amazing in both sweet and savoury dishes!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh walnuts! Nothing beats fresh walnuts!<br />
These came from a couple of walnut trees given to Bryn for his 30th.</td></tr>
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</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0Waihopai Valley, New Zealand-41.6365342 173.6465961-41.847751699999996 173.3469191 -41.4253167 173.9462731tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-66888046632902581582012-01-09T23:18:00.002+13:002012-01-10T09:18:44.298+13:00Mountains and Glacier Valleys<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_tQmGyaalo66ddYBI5u1c6cHkeBUQqx3pG1LVnTxe7PzhwBi7_Md10yMs5fdZNfRg6Z-TqWQ3ONlUxPxGrg6_5Na2PBVFXxrCZFYCDO67LscbPQWw6smZhhCkqS0SNiDEc8Ycx_dhA_N/s1600/P1031095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_tQmGyaalo66ddYBI5u1c6cHkeBUQqx3pG1LVnTxe7PzhwBi7_Md10yMs5fdZNfRg6Z-TqWQ3ONlUxPxGrg6_5Na2PBVFXxrCZFYCDO67LscbPQWw6smZhhCkqS0SNiDEc8Ycx_dhA_N/s640/P1031095.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aoraki (Mount Cook) - Tallest peak in New Zealand @ 3754m</td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So often in life, we take things for granted </i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>- the routine, the people closest to us, power, clean water, good food, and a hot shower!</i></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To commemorate the new year 2012, Bryn and I did a road trip with a couple of friends visiting from overseas. In the 1500kms driven, we covered Fox Glacier, Haast Pass, Wanaka, Te Anau and the Milford Sound. All in the south-west area of South Island, New Zealand. The perfect spot for reunion, holiday and new year celebration!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Scenery is pristine, of course! Blessed with the best weather too. Another perfect opportunity to use the <a href="http://oliviacurrie.blogspot.com/2011/11/oli-and-oly-in-windy-welly.html">Oly EP-3</a>:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terminal phase of Fox Glacier (on the other side of Aoraki)<br />
- 24kms from the sea and only at 200m above sea level. <br />
Located in the West Coast of New Zealand</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the pinnacle phase of Fox Glacier</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunburst</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eglington Valley, State Highway 94, Fiordland National Park <br />
- carved by glaciers in the ice age</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocky mountains and river from melted snow and ice</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The East Portal beside Homer Tunnel, an engineering feat of building a road tunnel right through a rocky mountain, opened in 1954. Of highest avalanche risk every NZ winter!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mitre Peak <br />
- a mountain that rises directly from the sea at 1692m tall <br />
and dips nearly vertically into the fiords to 265m deep. <br />
Named after its resemblance to a bishop's head wear.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kayaking into the sunset</td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whilst arranging the photos from the trip, I could not help but think of the ice age and how the glaciers of old would carve these mountains to look so majestic, to be surrounded by cold, crisp and clear lakes. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You covered it with the sea as with a coat. The waters stood above the mountains. The waters left at Your strong words. They went away in a hurry at the sound of Your thunder. The mountains went up and the valleys went down to the place that You made for them. ~Psalm 104:6-8</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So beautiful! So in awe! Like my nieces (?in law) who saw snow for the first time and just went "Oh, wow!"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is times like this that always reminds me how transient my life is in this world. How, sometimes, when certain small things seem big enough to grumble and complain about. But no longer matters after a good night's rest! How, sometimes, when my vision is so tunneled that I forget to see the bigger picture. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I really enjoyed this break. Here are some of my recommendations if there are some of you out there who may be interested in this less traveled route!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Accommodation</u></b></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://stayatbase.com/hostels/new-zealand-hostels/base-wanaka.aspx">Base Wanaka</a>, Wanaka</li>
<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Backpacker with ensuite options and shared kitchen. Located right beside the local supermarket and a short stroll to the waterfront. </li>
</ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.thevillageinn.co.nz/">The Village Inn Hotel</a>, Te Anau</li>
<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Found a "Bloomin' Amazing Summer" bed and breakfast deal for this hotel. Very quirky and seem locked in the 70's but clean, warm and comfortable. </li>
</ul></ul><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Food</u></b></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1988990-d2017724-Reviews-Hard_Antler_Bar-Haast_South_Island.html">The Hard Antler Bar and Restaurant</a>, Haast</li>
<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">For the best ribs I've ever had! (beats my own recipe!). Excellent salad bar too. A local recommended this to us and might I say she did very well!</li>
</ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g612500-d723749-Reviews-Kai_Whakapai_Cafe_and_Bar-Wanaka_South_Island.html">Kai Whaka Pai</a>, Wanaka</li>
<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Nice spicy twist to the usual cooked breakfasts. Relaxed ambiance. Great for people watching too!</li>
</ul></ul><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Activities</u></b></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.foxguides.co.nz/our-trips/nimble-fox-all-day-walk">Nimble Fox: All Day Walk</a>, Fox Glacier</li>
<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">One gets to climb higher without the cost of a helicopter ride.</li>
</ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.roscosmilfordkayaks.com/">Rosco's Milford Kayaks</a>, Milford Sound</li>
<ul><li style="text-align: justify;">We did the Twilight Wind and Waves. Our guide enjoyed us so much that he brought us around a little longer on the waters and even an extra side trip to Bowen Falls! </li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Bestfriend and I</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com2South Island, New Zealand-45.152670699999987 169.89263329999994-48.74106669999999 165.74444679999993 -41.564274699999984 174.04081979999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-51230692415212680882011-12-22T22:46:00.002+13:002011-12-28T10:17:17.126+13:00Reminiscing the Mackenzie Country<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXQLAJYsEfQ/TvKvYBOMl9I/AAAAAAAAAIc/EZvCBJ4U_e8/s1600/AIC_WC_139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXQLAJYsEfQ/TvKvYBOMl9I/AAAAAAAAAIc/EZvCBJ4U_e8/s640/AIC_WC_139.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">18 months after our nuptials, I finally found the time to complete our thank you notes (I know, this will make any wedding planners pop)! I could not help it but smile at the memories of the event, people involved and everyone who'd remembered and celebrated the event with us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>10-7-10</i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>at the <a href="http://www.historic.org.nz/TheRegister/RegisterSearch/RegisterResults.aspx?RID=311&m=advanced">Church of the Good Shepherd</a>, Lake Tekapo</i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>by Reverend Michael Kerr</i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>with our immediate family</i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Photographer: Jen Rayment @ <a href="http://www.alpineimages.co.nz/">Alpine Images</a></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mountains that are solid, the water that cleanses, the matagauri bush - albeit full of thorns, produces the sweetest fragrance every year, and the Cross.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-25CWPj7yMbE/TvKzC7h9NcI/AAAAAAAAAJY/PXv1ASg-aew/s1600/DSC_0525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-25CWPj7yMbE/TvKzC7h9NcI/AAAAAAAAAJY/PXv1ASg-aew/s640/DSC_0525.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The night before with clear sky, such that the nearest galaxies to us are visible - the Magellanic Clouds.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oGEGEaLgpy4/TvKzRkzPLbI/AAAAAAAAAJg/eZuLE0VAjMo/s1600/AIC_WC_055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oGEGEaLgpy4/TvKzRkzPLbI/AAAAAAAAAJg/eZuLE0VAjMo/s640/AIC_WC_055.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alpine Springs - skating on ice in our wedding gear!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5UhhCDxACcw/TvKzdkL5T0I/AAAAAAAAAJo/AwXYem-zHvI/s1600/AIC_WC_082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5UhhCDxACcw/TvKzdkL5T0I/AAAAAAAAAJo/AwXYem-zHvI/s640/AIC_WC_082.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by Mt John</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SkmmYQP4YKU/TvKzkVeg2SI/AAAAAAAAAJw/wOvXhVlntUA/s1600/AIC_WC_085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SkmmYQP4YKU/TvKzkVeg2SI/AAAAAAAAAJw/wOvXhVlntUA/s640/AIC_WC_085.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My homemade bouquet, and loving the snow backdrop to help flaunt the winter theme!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t7uq31897_4/TvKz8JGLf-I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/2ndLWlqWrzY/s1600/AIC_WC_110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t7uq31897_4/TvKz8JGLf-I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/2ndLWlqWrzY/s640/AIC_WC_110.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Alexandrina</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dMPvIRxfocs/TvK0JXo09NI/AAAAAAAAAKA/AcE-wnDjKdg/s1600/AIC_WC_127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dMPvIRxfocs/TvK0JXo09NI/AAAAAAAAAKA/AcE-wnDjKdg/s640/AIC_WC_127.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and of course, Lake Tekapo</td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.tekapotourism.co.nz/">Lake Tekapo</a> is a lakeside village in the Mackenzie Country, 2 1/2 hours drive from Christchurch. It's geographic location is so strategic such that the <a href="http://www.phys.canterbury.ac.nz/research/mt_john/index.shtml">Mt John Observatory</a> have the best views of the night sky. It is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, camping, a romantic getaway and family fun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We stayed at the <a href="http://www.peppers.co.nz/bluewater/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Bluewater">Bluewater Peppers Resort</a> for the serviced apartments, so to cater to everyone's needs whilst there. Rooms were spacious and very comfortable indeed. Of course, with beautiful views!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For places to eat, these are our favourites:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://kohannz.com/">Kohan Japanese Restaurant</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.dineout.co.nz/restaurant.php?rest=5312">Pepe's Pizza Bar and Restaurant</a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The Rakinui Restaurant @ Bluewater Pepper's Resort was where we had our reception dinner</li>
</ul><div><div style="text-align: justify;">(our much delayed wedding reception with the rest of the family and friends was held in Christchurch at the <a href="http://www.newberylodge.co.nz/">Newbery Lodge</a>)</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Lake Tekapo, the place I married my bestfriend <span style="background-color: #edeff4; color: #333333; font-family: "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">♥</span></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><img height="320" src="http://images.pictureshunt.com/pics/l/live_laugh_love_quote-2325.jpg" width="400" /> </div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-22346067647283287942011-12-12T11:59:00.003+13:002011-12-12T12:05:28.603+13:00Eggplant Casserole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTB7y_SQAH-i0OawBPSdv2MyrGxKwLMPmEWirikc8qmNPKwYdzh5H_E_wfU8NEd39M0TiS15_7VVUWzxrdmE8ZijcCycVzaXHTMYWxttvc2Eqc5gu2w2ldFOv1wMFD_B0yJF1jIa2wud7/s1600/moussaka1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTB7y_SQAH-i0OawBPSdv2MyrGxKwLMPmEWirikc8qmNPKwYdzh5H_E_wfU8NEd39M0TiS15_7VVUWzxrdmE8ZijcCycVzaXHTMYWxttvc2Eqc5gu2w2ldFOv1wMFD_B0yJF1jIa2wud7/s400/moussaka1.JPG" width="392" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Arabbic - musaqqaʿa </div><div style="text-align: center;">Greek - μουσακάς</div><div style="text-align: center;">South Slavic - мусака</div><div style="text-align: center;">Turkish - musakka</div><div style="text-align: center;">English - moussaka</div><div><br />
</div><br />
A peasant dish made posh by <a href="http://greekfood.about.com/od/discovergreekfood/a/tselementes.htm">Nicholas Tselementes</a> in the early 1900s.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>I have been meaning to try it and decided to do so this spring when the eggplants came to season. The greek version, with the bechamel sauce, was decided in the end. Filling our home with the aromatic smell of Greece (I think)!<br />
<br />
Choosing the ideal recipe to try was probably the hardest part of making this dish. Probably because my husband helped with making the bechamel sauce! In the end, it was the <a href="http://www.masterchef.com.au/home.htm">Australian Masterchef</a>'s Masterclass recipe by one of the judge's mother, <a href="http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/television/george-calombaris-mum-mary-a-hit-on-masterchef/story-e6frfmyi-1226087126990">Mary Calombaris</a>! She was a big hit!</div><div><br />
</div><div><u><b><a href="http://tvnz.co.nz/masterchef-australia/ep-48-moussaka-4356958"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Moussaka</span></a></b></u><br />
(Serves 8)</div><br />
3 eggplants, sliced 5mm thick <br />
2-3 tablespoons salt <br />
1/4 cup olive oil <br />
300g lamb mince <br />
100g pork mince <br />
100g veal mince <br />
1 onion, finely diced <br />
2 cloves garlic, finely diced <br />
1 tablespoon dried oregano <br />
1 tablespoon lemon thyme, chopped <br />
1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped <br />
2 cinnamon quills <br />
250g crushed tomatoes <br />
400g tomato passata <br />
2 tablespoons tomato paste <br />
1 1/2 cups water <br />
Olive oil, for frying <br />
4 large potatoes, sliced 5mm thick<br />
<div><br />
<u>Bechamel</u> <br />
100g butter <br />
100g plain flour <br />
600ml full cream milk, warmed <br />
100g keflagraviera cheese, grated <br />
1 egg, beaten <br />
Extra keflagraviera cheese, grated <br />
<br />
1 Preheat oven to 180C. <br />
<br />
2 Lay eggplant over a shallow tray or dish and sprinkle liberally with salt. Cover with muslin or a clean chux and set aside for 30 minutes. <br />
<br />
3 Heat oil in a large frying pan or saucepan, add lamb, pork and veal mince and cook until browned and meat breaks up. Add onion and sauté until softened. Add garlic, oregano, lemon thyme, rosemary and cinnamon quills and allow to cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. <br />
<br />
4 Add crushed tomatoes, tomato passata, tomato paste and water, bring to the boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for 1/2 hour. Season with salt and pepper to taste. <br />
<br />
5 Pour oil into a frying pan approximately 1cm deep, place over a high heat and shallow fry potatoes for 3-4 minutes on each side or until tender. Drain on paper towel. <br />
<br />
6 Pat dry eggplant and pan fry on each side until golden yet still firm. Drain on paper towel. <br />
<br />
7 For béchamel, melt butter in a heavy based saucepan. Add flour, stir over a low heat for 2 minutes. <br />
<br />
8 Slowly add warm milk, stirring continuously until thick. Add extra milk if sauce is to thick. <br />
<br />
9 Whisk in keflagraviera cheese and an egg yolk, season to taste. <br />
<br />
10 To assemble, oil casserole dish and layer as follows. Meat sauce, potato, sauce, potato, sauce, eggplant, sauce, potato, eggplant and remaining sauce. Cover with béchamel and grate extra cheese over. <br />
<br />
11 Bake for 45 minutes until browned and béchamel has set. Serve.</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>The journey to Greece - 2 hours. The taste - wonderful! </div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*Note: With some local substitution of just local beef mince, keflagraviera for tasty cheese and parmesan, and foregoing tomato passata!</i></span></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0Christchurch, New Zealand-43.5320544 172.63622540000006-43.6544069 172.42638240000005 -43.4097019 172.84606840000006tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-85788152193935997322011-12-04T13:18:00.001+13:002011-12-05T08:39:20.909+13:00The Mirrorman<blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7imCdhRP_Zxkow6pMJuZYTsAjPU69yZtBMgVY4i7cAOD48rkkAqFs5bWUtE-dfB3LnaJDAO5P-Y-jnXyN4gd1ktFI3bLAwJsz417-UaWDwVLubCYdqu7nYNqDTbb26kEcDZjdgrNwFmlB/s1600/PB290378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7imCdhRP_Zxkow6pMJuZYTsAjPU69yZtBMgVY4i7cAOD48rkkAqFs5bWUtE-dfB3LnaJDAO5P-Y-jnXyN4gd1ktFI3bLAwJsz417-UaWDwVLubCYdqu7nYNqDTbb26kEcDZjdgrNwFmlB/s640/PB290378.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I ventured to the newly reopened Cashel Street Mall recently for an independent post <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/photos/4688271/Christchurch-quake-the-first-images">quake</a> review. i.e. to have a nosy, and maybe to assist the local economy with some retail therapy :D </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The liveliest surprise was my encounter with a man covered in glass from head to toe for mirror effect - The <a href="http://highlyflammable.co.nz/">Mirror Man</a> amusing the locals and visitors in a recovering quake damaged zone, commixed with Christmas festivity.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He must have spotted me, as he seem to pop up in my view everywhere I went! Alright, so what if I was stalking him first? It was another pure artistic opportunity with the camera!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinbmYv87ZDlbY3Ece9E7oCYFb-aaZMa2x-FCWnlkdEPye88V-uf8rLafqemBdtX7Oq8cY8o4DmA5qZVCp58VDDLFf3jcB-wRlLPAlaCq7uqR71mk8HglW8XUtLLJGFMfkcI8Vzn5U2ailn/s1600/PB290371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinbmYv87ZDlbY3Ece9E7oCYFb-aaZMa2x-FCWnlkdEPye88V-uf8rLafqemBdtX7Oq8cY8o4DmA5qZVCp58VDDLFf3jcB-wRlLPAlaCq7uqR71mk8HglW8XUtLLJGFMfkcI8Vzn5U2ailn/s640/PB290371.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Container shops and Cafes</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ongoing demolition and rebuilding in the inner city</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Newly reopened Ballantynes</td></tr>
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<br />
I learned later that this human mirror mosaic probably originated from an <a href="http://www.independentpeople.com/the-mirror-man/">Austrian artist</a> living in Los Angeles, <a href="http://www.gustavtroger.com/">Gustav Roger</a>. His idea is a search to answer the questions "What is reality?", "What is appearance?", "Where does the truth begin and where does it end?". He himself does not have the answer but his suit reflects his audience. Who are they? What do they see? Why are they here? What is life? What is void? Does he reflect who they truly are?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i style="text-align: center;">You know I'll change</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If change is what you require</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Your every wish</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Your every dream, hope, desire</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here comes the mirror man</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Says he's a people fan</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here comes the mirror man</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>~Philip Oakey</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Profound. Nevertheless, how very true.<br />
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</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com2Cashel St, Christchurch, New Zealand-43.5331106 172.64937140000006-43.5359651 172.62713690000007 -43.5302561 172.67160590000006tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-54034017940671454012011-11-29T09:44:00.000+13:002011-11-30T15:56:54.936+13:00Oli and the Oly... in Windy Welly!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNd2G5C7_NukEIz7Yf3z85tKq_vl7yn-PpEf4wRBRWoJ85t6W9Fwtgw7UwMj6MqK4Kx0K_7ZaymHVazxq39vCCTDHgKya8r23TvCV78qkZUJUUS87vs_zmM5TnMYQH73IzvPpwNudPYo6g/s1600/PB200050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNd2G5C7_NukEIz7Yf3z85tKq_vl7yn-PpEf4wRBRWoJ85t6W9Fwtgw7UwMj6MqK4Kx0K_7ZaymHVazxq39vCCTDHgKya8r23TvCV78qkZUJUUS87vs_zmM5TnMYQH73IzvPpwNudPYo6g/s640/PB200050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Meet my new toy - The Olympus EP-3 (Oly)! Very clever of Bryn as it definitely distracted me from thinking about entering the 4th decade! Thanks, Babe, for such a cool and fun camera! I do not miss my old Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8, sadly to say. I do know of a good home it can go to!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is a retro looking micro four thirds camera which allows for interchanging of lenses. Some articles about it has the title "Honey, I shrunk the DSLR"! This little number produces sharp images with depth, has amazing autofocus and fits nicely into a handbag. Definitely allows for one to be discrete. The reviews that helped me decide are those by <a href="http://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2011/08/04/the-olympus-e-p3-review-the-new-mirror-less-flagship-is-a-winner/">Steve Huff</a> and <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/olympusep3/">dpreview</a>. Of course, there is always the Facebook poll :D</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We were in Wellington recently for both work and leisure. A perfect opportunity to test out the Oly. Of course, the user manual can always wait! It may not be perfect, but may I present you some retro arty shots of one of my favourite cities in the world- Wellington:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(a slideshow pops up when you click on an image)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Retro Suburbia<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Romance</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute interior designs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banjos<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solace in the Wind - by Max Patte<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When one decides not to walk...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tee hee!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wellington Cable Car to the Botanical Gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuba Street<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The infamous Bucket Fountain</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">City Market<br />
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I managed to convert Bryn for the weekend too. To have Char Kuey Teows, Satay, Dosai, Murtabak, Roti and Dhal, Nasi Lemak with Ayam Masak Merah, Siew Pau and Curry Puffs! Yummo! I recommend the following places to eat if keen to pursue a similar cuisine theme:</div><div></div><ul style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><li><a href="http://www.menumania.co.nz/restaurants/satay-kajang">Satay Kajang</a>, Dixon Street</li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LittlePenang">Little Penang</a>, Dixon Street</li>
<li><a href="http://www.rotichenai.co.nz/home">Roti Chenai</a>, Victoria Street</li>
<li><a href="http://www.istanamalaysia.co.nz/page/home.aspx">Istana Malaysia</a>, Allen Street</li>
<li><a href="http://www.menumania.co.nz/restaurants/k-c-cafe">KC Cafe and Takeaway</a>, Courtney Place</li>
<li><a href="http://www.menumania.co.nz/restaurants/satay-kampong">Satay Kampong</a>, Allen Street</li>
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</div><div>For those with more European tastebuds, we had some really good meals here:</div><div></div><ul style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><li><a href="http://elementscafe.co.nz/">Elements</a>, Lyall Bay</li>
<li><a href="http://www.matterhorn.co.nz/">Matterhorn</a>, Cuba Street</li>
<li><a href="http://www.scopa.co.nz/">Scopa</a>, Cuba Street</li>
<li><a href="http://www.boulcottstreetbistro.co.nz/">Boulcott Street Bistro</a>, Boulcott Street</li>
<li><a href="http://www.leuven.co.nz/">Leuven Belgian Beer Cafe</a>, Featherston Street</li>
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</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Ah... Wellington </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">The Harbourcity capital, full of life and buzz</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">A city ever so windy! So your hair always a fuzz</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Always a cafe, a restaurant and a bar</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">in every corner, near and far</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Lots of different yummies for a Foodie</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Just as long as you walk, gotta watch the tushy!</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, that's my attempt but let me present you the Mutton Birds who does a much better job! It's the song Bryn and I used to sing to each other when we were doing the long distance business :) Yes, lots of fond memories from Wellington. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.matterhorn.co.nz/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/371yz8Rk0go?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></a></div><div><br />
</div></div></div></div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com3Wellington, New Zealand-41.2864603 174.77623600000004-41.4045453 174.62746550000003 -41.1683753 174.92500650000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-88536945388155566832011-11-19T12:32:00.000+13:002011-11-20T18:52:37.662+13:00The Hitchhiker<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-NyAhBCh6iHHClwv609OwCBTSwoWeBjt0xTTZZGBIODmagI9DZf_GrhBfHyiYzaMY1eWgmj12hsZ1IM4yOQu_-4skcgOlyW6Ek0MpFw8_xHq1ZcNHR4WVd2saVHchDqQBrws2rWuxUYv/s1600/hitchhiker.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Image copied from Comedy Estonia</span></i></td></tr>
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</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">The marks of a good hitchhiker:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Super friendly </div><div style="text-align: center;">Super chatty </div><div style="text-align: center;">Super spontaneous </div><div style="text-align: center;">Super trusting </div><div style="text-align: center;">Super grateful</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">I decided to do the most random thing the other day. Maybe it's to check off something to do before hitting the big three-O. Maybe it's all the warm and fuzzy feeling from finishing my rural placement with a big appreciating send off. Maybe I get to go home!<br />
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Yes, I picked up a hitchhiker.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A 22 year old Austrian from small town Schwarzenberg, who is travelling before starting college to complete his training as an electrician. With other trades of a ski instructor and demi-pair! The usual dull drive back to Christchurch was adorned by conversations of travel, food, interesting people (hm...like the blog's theme!), religion and life's philosophy!</div></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">My husband was found to be chuckling at my action as this particular hitchhiker also scored a night's accommodation, hot shower, and a nice meal after returning from Arthur's Pass the day after he'd hitched a ride from me! PLUS, he gets a free ride to the airport the following day!</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">I would like to think this to be a kind deed to a fellow traveller from another, I trust he'd rested and recuperated well. Nevertheless, given his personality, he has done very well indeed!</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Viel Erfolg, my friend!</i></div></div><div><br />
</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com2Christchurch, New Zealand-43.5320544 172.63622540000006-43.6544069 172.42638240000005 -43.4097019 172.84606840000006tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6947224044637764007.post-12315148432328325962011-11-11T11:32:00.001+13:002011-12-05T20:51:24.406+13:00Meal of Crayfish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMzLNhUFyOPNu9wm9XSNMoGDr5iCAXcJv_8a10vyA5LkrlEWBQRy-LiZW1k4RTnR6uMNqcHfl7tJE9wZRmqC_0vlf3-9Ze8_ZphW8LT7Tb9fyo18tWcOVTPO0NevdQ4Y-LdFOJ0jKdrVG/s1600/pink+mountains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMzLNhUFyOPNu9wm9XSNMoGDr5iCAXcJv_8a10vyA5LkrlEWBQRy-LiZW1k4RTnR6uMNqcHfl7tJE9wZRmqC_0vlf3-9Ze8_ZphW8LT7Tb9fyo18tWcOVTPO0NevdQ4Y-LdFOJ0jKdrVG/s400/pink+mountains.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The 'Meal of Crayfish' - a literal translation of one's meal at the local hospital in this little destination!<br />
<br />
My 5 month placement in this little rural town of 5000 has been most interesting as well as restful. It is also my first at being a real rural PRIME doctor!<br />
<br />
On arrival, I rolled my sleeves up and is all ready for the motor vehicle accidents, dive injuries, seal bites and dirty wounds that will come through. So, being a good and green young General Practitioner, I waited...and waited... and waited.....<br />
<br />
No such cases at all!<br />
<br />
Instead, I attended to multiple medical emergencies, osteoporotic fractures, sprains and strains, alcohol related injuries and a big list of patients with psychological problems. I quickly learned that this holiday destination is also a place where people come to retire! It is most agreeable with the town surrounded by the beautiful Kaikoura Ranges, just off shore to the South Pacific Ocean. Hard to imagine the existence of emotional turmoil with such serene and peaceful surroundings.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8HSFwkX9u2lDzD6L_AupYcGG_5nxZs9eI6mICNzO9i9sII6kdFYPdPbwR_-AGdTfyl5SSOzp1bBCyJCqnlNZe6ELD5jAv34K084n2BI3Ow2YGs-jh_zfxarHm8vIiPvhgA6QtDvJFoQw/s1600/kaikoura+ranges.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: black; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8HSFwkX9u2lDzD6L_AupYcGG_5nxZs9eI6mICNzO9i9sII6kdFYPdPbwR_-AGdTfyl5SSOzp1bBCyJCqnlNZe6ELD5jAv34K084n2BI3Ow2YGs-jh_zfxarHm8vIiPvhgA6QtDvJFoQw/s640/kaikoura+ranges.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">I lift up my eyes to the hills—<br />
where does my help come from?<br />
My help comes from the LORD,<br />
the Maker of heaven and earth.<br />
Psalm 121:1-2</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
My most interesting CME session has to be the one on "Seal Bites". It entails one of the local GP's broad knowledge on seal behaviours and it's sign of aggression. Quite similar to a BBC documentary. Of course, we have to include the management of its bite. This once cute animal has become a wild beast to my mind. Who am I kidding... It is still very cute indeed! Look at this one sleeping. If not careful, he may just roll back into the sea!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSnsSUvF4_JWVM0OkuA4c7ssXr96AEx7zeX5YKL7_gPTHegnfJqvS5dsosfSmmExkgm7t7XZYqvSWg8z_n-vl61hbD9i8XWFSGxEkl5N2Zy_vaSeWiXcsYqEV4f0GNs1lYE1O_JIY5_RP4/s1600/seal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSnsSUvF4_JWVM0OkuA4c7ssXr96AEx7zeX5YKL7_gPTHegnfJqvS5dsosfSmmExkgm7t7XZYqvSWg8z_n-vl61hbD9i8XWFSGxEkl5N2Zy_vaSeWiXcsYqEV4f0GNs1lYE1O_JIY5_RP4/s400/seal.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
"We always look out for each other here" one patient said to me. And they do. The staffs at the medical centre and the hospital are very dedicated and helpful. They know not only the medical history but also the social history of the patient as well as the patient's families! Yes, I have indeed tested the local "manual telegraph". Brilliant speed - It takes only 2 hours before every staff knows about an incident... or a gossip! They do not do things half-heartedly here at all! Also shown by the dedication of the town to the All Blacks winning the Rugby World Cup 2011:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_eyGZjeGRVvZP_tKhfh9WkKEv61-6H9C_4MeIuWXIXW39Y2cZ5wmXnZss2DyFl6IwnqUi0XBo_Eanwoo3hXQwkW8ytFbuNyL6T5-JPvJMl7cWn-3wVe6yQKVMEqGFIQbDOmR95PKJJQzO/s1600/allblack+support.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_eyGZjeGRVvZP_tKhfh9WkKEv61-6H9C_4MeIuWXIXW39Y2cZ5wmXnZss2DyFl6IwnqUi0XBo_Eanwoo3hXQwkW8ytFbuNyL6T5-JPvJMl7cWn-3wVe6yQKVMEqGFIQbDOmR95PKJJQzO/s400/allblack+support.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
It is a shame that I did not have many opportunities to head out fishing and hunting whilst here.... yeah right. I can, however, boast of the fresh seafood that one can get here! It is a shame that I have not taken photographs of some dishes I made with seafood from Kaikoura, and some of the meals I had here. Anyway, the recommendation is not to have anything else but seafood when in Kaikoura! For places to eat, I would highly recommend the following:<br />
<br />
<ol><li><a href="http://www.tutis.co.nz/">Tuti's Restaurant and Bar</a>: Fusion Indonesian Cuisine with real cray in the chowder!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g255374-d1147926-Reviews-Kaikoura_Food_Company-Kaikoura_Canterbury_South_Island.html">The local KFC (Kaikoura Food Company)</a>: Delicious breakfasts and lunches. OK Fudges though</li>
<li><a href="http://www.encounterkaikoura.co.nz/dolphins/cafe-encounter/">Encounter Cafe</a>: Delicious breakfasts and lunches. Great view on the Esplanade</li>
</ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div>Kia Ora, Kaikoura. Until we meet again!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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</div>Oliviahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05617427971690629409noreply@blogger.com0Kaikoura, New Zealand-42.4008174 173.68138599999997-42.7299449 173.11563699999996 -42.0716899 174.247135