Family dinner before New Zealand departure

Hi mom! Do you like this picture? I think Franghus and Ghankie look dashing. I'll add more pictures laster but want to make sure this one got up on the site :)

Transitioning into the wild!

Mood: Tired from work, but excited to pick up Iris!

Well, I'm leaving for New Zealand on the 30th! I can't believe it's finally less than 10 days away. I'll be staying at this small hostel in Nelson called the Bug. It fits about 20 people. I think it will fit me well. The owner is younger, knows lots about the nelson region, loves mountain biking, has traveled all over the world, and seems pretty nice. The hostel is right across the street from a big park where I can meditate, play soccer or go on runs in the mornings. The hostel is big on social gatherings which is a plus too. Another plus, I'll be living with 2 other workers from around the world! It's going to be a change, but I'm sure I'll make it work by getting into lots of new hobbies when I get there. If you break it into a formula New Zealand seems like the perfect place for me. Sunny weather, friendly people, slower paced, lots to do! At the beginning of the semester I couldn't wait to finally step foot in New Zealand. I wanted to leave berkeley so bad. As we know in life ANYTHING CAN happen. I met an amazing guy and met the best friends I've ever had in college. Laura and Ariane are amazing. I know I'll be much happier here with Ariane, Laura, and Nate but it came time for a really tough decision: Do I choose happiness or growth? I'd forsure be happier here with my friends, but I'd get to learn and grow so much while in New Zealand. I chose to grow and live my dream and I hope it will be worth it :)
First Picture: Nelson, New Zealand
Second Picture: boyfriend (nate) and one of my roomates this semester (Laura)