Settling in

I think it's a sign that we're settling in that I can now understand my students -- at least more so than a few weeks ago. Ah, isn't language a fascinating thing!

We moved into our house last Thursday and are loving it. It has a smallish backyard so not too much upkeep, but big enough for the pups to run around in. And the plants! The hedge is over 20 feet tall so unless Jon plans to invest in some major equipment, I think it is not going to be as trim as the one on Oakland Park. What I really love are all the glass doors and windows which make it very bright and allow for a wonderful view of the bay/ocean. I have a 45 minute bus ride to work but it is so worth it. Besides, I can use that time to blog. ;)

The pups are out of quarantine and you'd never know anything out of the ordinary had happened. In fact, they quite like sleeping in their crates, despite having been in them for almost 2 full days while travelling. We have some wonderful reserves (= parks) near the house so they're enjoying running around. Tatum may even lose the weight she gained while in jail; it's was just so hard to resist that full bowl of kibble just sitting there 24/7!

I learned from some of my colleagues today that kiwis don't talk much about politics (a nice break) but the weather provides lots of fodder for conversation. I noticed this the other day talking to our neighbour, Jeff, who was telling us about places to take the dogs. The reserve by the Old School is great unless there's a southerly, then you should go to Mt Pleasant. But if there's an easterly, well best to avoid that. Of course, when there's a westerly, go anywhere you like. Still figuring this out.

Here are some random things I like:
- everyone says 'thanks' or 'cheers' to the bus driver when they get off
- the university library is opening a wine bar
- my first sailing lesson is this Saturday

Cheers,
Beth