NEW ZEALAND (finally)

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Because of a huge debockle with my ticket to New Zealand (which I don't want to get into...I'll just leave it at that) I had to stay in Manly Beach [Sydney area] Australia for a couple more days. But that actually ended up working out perfectly, because during my last two days there I got a chance to play tons of volleyball. I entered a recreation tourney on Saturday (and my team won our net) and then I was supposed to play in a money tourney but it got rained out (see photos). The weather ended up clearing up and so I went back down to the courts and played for another 4 hours (I'm still a little sore).

So Monday morning (which is Sunday lunch time for you guys) I hopped on a plane and was finally on my way to New Zealand (Lord of the Rings Territory....and yes, I have seen a few hobbits...cute little f-er's). As soon as I arrived I met a German guy named (well at least this is how it is pronounced) To-bye-us ... which I skillfully translate into Tobyus. We ended up going to the same hostel and also ended up in the same dorm room. This was the start of a long friendship (going on 2 days now). Last night after a few beers we decided that we would follow the lead of Bilbo Baggins and go on our own epic journey through middle earth (but hopefully avoiding Morder). (I really hope you all read or at least watched Lord of the Rings...if not then you have no idea what I am talking about). Me and my merry crew (Tobyeus) decided to rent a car...get some camping gear...and drive around the southern island for 2 weeks (he actually wanted to go for longer and I wanted to go for less time....as jen says...I'm and A.D.D. traveler). So we spent this morning calling up every car rental place on this island..and then hit up the used clothing stores (see pic) bought old plates and pots and plans, sleeping bag (piece of crap) and one of the worst tents i have seen (dad, your old green army one takes the cake though). My prize purchase was this sweet ass silver goblet that I found in the store from the picture below...and it says something like "Woodland Bowling Champion". Perfect!

Tobyeus (who I mistakenly called TAbyeus for the first day...which consists of half of the time that I have known him) and I are planning on attaching all the pots and pans to the outside of our packs so they clink and clack as we hike around...it will help us mentally get into the whole adventure. And while I am thinking about it. What was the name of horse the Frodo and Sam had for a while in the First Lord of the Rings...I think that is what we will name our trusty stead (aka. car) So if you know that (I will be impressed) please add it to the comments.

I am really excited...a little apprehensive....and basically ready to hit the road. This is kind of when I miss my friends from home. This will be my first road trip without at least one of you guys. But you know what they say....Out with the old, in with the new..hahahaha just teasing.

The next time you hear from me I sure hope that I have some amazing pictures and stories. I am hoping to go skydiving, ice climbing, and all sorts of other stuff (sea kayaking, watch some penguins, etc).

Cheers mate!

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