Things I learned in NZ [yes, even after 3 prior visits]

. . . .

• no one says, "hi". It's "hiya".
• "Oh my gosh" is not used it's "crikey"
• I was told to "brown eye" someone by the Pita's sister - can't even share what that means. But I'd like to go on the record as saying, "I didn't do it!"
• when you come in from a run and someone asks, "were you running full tit?" - [yes, I did spell that right] just say "yes".

• the Pita loves doing circus tricks with Peanut - more than she does. [can you blame her? That's a long way to fall]

• apparently someone has done this before?! "sorry for the dark photo-it reads, "warning - do not jump for the ferry".

• NZ parks don't get sued by their residents - the craziest playground equipment EVER!
  

• running is a lot [actually] A LOT more challenging - nothing is "flat" there.




• when you return from running - you had better gone far because the family is all there waiting for your report. "is that far enough if you are training?"

• "NZ time" does not equal "on-time". We could have walked to our destination faster ----but then we wouldn't have the sweet photo by the wine tasting now, would we?
  
  

• this bird [tui] - without a doubt sings the MOST beautifully of any bird I have ever heard before.
  
  

• "travelator" ? I thought Arnold Schwarzenegger was from Austria. What's even funnier? I'm the only one who thought this was hilarious [this one brought me to tears].
  

• Poppy's flowers at Spring time are even more beautiful than I had heard.
  
  

• Peanut does not have NZ "beach feet".
  
  

• If there is an All-Blacks game on [rugby] don't plan on ... a.) anyone to care you are [trying] to shop/buy something in their store. b.) any family member to answer your question [or heck, even realize you are speaking] c.) the decibel level of the TV being under 120db. d.) realize you will see this EXACT game at least 4 more times [in re-run form].





• If the All-Blacks lose - - a.) don't expect any New Zealand-er to care you are alive. b.) expect that every pub you walk by to be packed & quiet [no music......nada]





• If the All-Blacks win - - expect to hear about it everywhere you go [in a bathroom stall [yes, really], cafe, grocery store, library & at the Chinese take-a-way place.
  

Almost done ;)

• iceblock = Popsicle and "yes", you want one.
• don't ask for a napkin at the dinner table or your cousin will pass you a diaper. "It's a serviette." woooo wooo-well excuuuuuuuse me. ;)
• dinner is an "open slather" = free for all - get your own food.
• when the "panel beater" calls he just wants to talk to you about the dent on your car.
• when your MIL says, "you must have gotten up at the Sparrow's fart" - she really means, "at sunrise" [that one ------- um, can't really wrap my head around that one]

Oh & Nat, I apparently should have left my sweet heels with you. As no one [but the uber-chic ;) CRAZY, blonde American] wears leopard print platform 4" heels in NZ?! I believe the comment went like this ..... "Crikey, what did you kill [hunt/murder] and put on your feet?"

Well folks, I believe these are the only ones suitable for writing. Trust me - I [unfortunately/fortunately]? - have more.