Our journey across the country on the Tranzalpine train

Jocelyn had a great first week at hairyLemon. They people were so friendly and welcomed her with open arms. To thank them for a great first week Jocelyn made lemon flavored cupcakes for the team! They were very appreciative. She also learned that there are two Kiwis in the office who are New England sports fans they have Red Sox and Patriots screen savers on their computers at work. Also, one of the directors is obsessed with Bruce Springsteen who grew up not far from where Jocelyn grew up. Random.

This weekend we went on the Tranzalpine train which goes clear across the country. It leaves right from Christchurch so it was just a quick 10 minute drive from our flat. It is 9 hours round trip and we spent an hour in Greymouth on the west coast. The train ride is the most scenic in the world and is the easiest way to get across the coast since there are so many mountains. The views are unparalleled and we still cannot believe we LIVE here!

The train is comfy and has decent restrooms and plenty of food/wine. Before we left the announcer shared a few nuggets of information and humor before we left the station- "Be sure you are sitting in the proper seats. We will be making a few stops and picking up more passengers. If you are in the incorrect seat, in a few stops you may find someone sitting on your lap which could be a pleasant or unpleasant experience...depending..." LOL :) Oh Kiwi humor!

On the train we enjoyed Devonshire tea (scones with butter, jam, cream and English breakfast tea). The ride was incredible and we were fortunate that even though we are currently in Spring, last week was chilly and dumped a bit more snow on the mountain tops making for a very picturesque scene as we drove through.

Greymouth is a quaint little town with shops and cafes. We were only there for an hour and treated ourselves to a fried fish lunch and some wine. Mmmm. The weather was perfect - not too chilly to take advantage of the open air cars where you could see the scenes without the pane of glass in your way. Small world - while we were out in the open air car we met a man who was visiting NZ from Boston!! Go figure!

The scenery in NZ is so incredible and in a way quite humbling. There is no way you cannot appreciate life and just how beautiful this world is while looking at such amazing things created by God. It is hard to not feel just absolutely joyful.

The rest of the weekend it was movies for Joc and the girls (Babs, Debi and Emma) and their male counterparts (Trey, Gordie, Scott and Richard) played poker. Eventually they all met up and blended parties. We look forward to spending a lot more time with the group and it is really nice to have a group of friends who are couples.

Sunday we went to the Vegetarian Expo in Hagley Park at the Horticultural Center. We met up with Debi and tried so many amazing treats (even though Jocelyn was a little scared!) We feasted on vegetable curry, vegan chocolate cake and a health drink made by one of Jocelyn's coworkers with greens, banana, apple and pear. It is something that Jocelyn wants to learn how to make and incorporate it into her diet. It was surprisingly yummy and sooooo good for you!

Another exciting weekend. Watch our video by clicking on the link below and don't forget that this weekend we in NZ "sprung ahead". Adjust your watches accordingly! :)

We love and miss you all. Enjoy the video! This weekend off to Kaikoura for the Seafood Festival featuring wines from Marlborough County. Life is good!

Peace.

Watch our video from the Tranzalpine!!