Life on Maahs

Zuzu's first steps

2012-01-19T14:40:00.001-08:00

A is for Apple

2012-01-15T00:28:00.000-08:00

Oh, so much to post about as I'm sure with everyone else out there in the bloggernacle world. We had so much Christmas fun with family and friends that I will have to share.

Zuzu has been really into apples. It's her pre phase before we enter Elmo territory. When I give her one to eat, it gives me at least 30 mins to get things done with out her little paws crawling up my legs. She love them so much in fact, that she uttered her first word "Apple". My babe is speaking! For now, I'll leave you with these, because what can be cutter than this little gummy smile?!

2011-11-16T00:42:00.001-08:00

Some of you may have heard of our little start up company called 11 Post Studio, a small collection of stamp art that we have been making as a side project. Recently, we have been getting a lot of exposure due to our featurette in an Australasian business magazine called Idealog. This has been exciting for us as more people have been interested in our artwork. As of yesterday, a popular website called Felt asked us to be their featured seller for the month of November! Felt is compared to the Etsy of NZ, so there is a lot of traffic flow there as well. Since the posting, we have already received 8 orders! So here is to watching our little business grow and for now, a little bit of bragging rights.

Check out the post here by clicking on this link;

http://felt.co.nz/blog/2011/11/featured-seller-11-post-studio/ -all comments welcomed :)

2011-11-02T01:48:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was quite eventful. After a good 12 weeks of running loops around Waiheke, I completed the Auckland half marathon and ran over the harbor bridge. A big shout out to mike who repeatedly forced me out of bed when the last thing I wanted to do was run for 1.5 hours. It all paid off as I did pretty good on the day and didn't really stop until mile 11.

This is the only photo I could get of me. :)

2011-11-01T23:17:00.000-07:00

look who's crawling!

KINA (a sea urchin)

2011-10-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

Evechinus chloroticus, better known as Kina (in the Maori language), is a seaurchin endemic to New Zealand and a tasty treat. Some friends on theisland got me all psyched up to go diving for Kina in the yet freezing ocean.So of course we men did it. Walked out on the rocks found a spot to divein and then proceeded to yell in cold convulsions. The rocks arebasically completely covered with oyster shells which are incredibly sharp andas I was swimming over and around looking for sea urchins (Kina) Igrazed an oyster shell and cut my knee open. The water was actually coldenough to contain the bleeding till I reached shore where it then gushed. It was a holiday weekend and the doctors and EMT were closed and I wasn'tabout to call 111 (911) for a cut. So at the EMT station there was anafter hours number I called and was told to hang out while they tried an oncall doctor. After waiting 2 hours and deciding to eat my Kina at thebeach with some friends in the mean time I was eventually called back and toldto drive to the doctor's house for some stitches. The weird thingwas right before the stitches the doctor asked if I wantedlocal anesthesia but asked in a challenging way and added,"without it you can really feel like you're alive." So what doI know, before second thoughts a couple stitches sealed me up...and it hurt, alot, and I guess I felt alive but really it was just pain. WARNING...thefollowing pictures contain blood and the death of more than a few sea urchins. So the bit you eat is actually the roe of the Kina and it tastes like areally sweat oyster.

Kereru (the wood pigeon that stalks me)

2011-10-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

Since we arrived on the Island of Waiheke I've noticed a bird known locally as the Kereru (New Zealand Wood Pigeon). This bird offended me the moment I got off the boat simply because it looks like a dirty city pigeon only 3 times the size. The first couple of months they initiated their end of the feud by playing mind games and just appearing as I came out of the house only meters away staring at me like in one of the thriller movies where you close the fridge door and all of a sudden the killer is there. They continued to do this closer and closer until that wasn't enough for them. The escalated to flybys first solo then in formation. Apparently, at certain times of the year the birds get drunk off the fermenting seed pods found on a native type of tree and proceed to fly around to the equivalent of rolling 12 beers deep. So a hell bent dirty bird with stalker like tendencies is now propelling itself at me with reckless abandon and dulled turning ability.....

.....there was quite on the front for the last couple weeks until this morning as a Kereru slammed through our plate glass kitchen window and then flew back out. It was a message, though I haven't yet deciphered any messages written in the broken glass shards.

Rugby Word Cup

2011-09-16T21:52:00.000-07:00

Before we became official residents of New Zealand, there was one thing that the government required of us...we had to swear to support and love the All Blacks at all costs. New Zealanders aren't known for many things, fish 'n chips, weird accents, Lord of the Rings, but their main source of pride, that which runs through their veins is the game of Rugby.

As you can imagine, being the host of the Rugby World Cup has been the buzz for the past year. So much in fact, that downtown Auckland has had a major facelift. A large new sector of the city has been created by the waterfront, a new art museum, trolleys, restaurants, and a lot of other work that was much needed to welcome the tens of thousands coming to celebrate.

So celebrate we did as my little family went across the ferry to join in the opening night....

Here's Mike as he is running to catch the ferry that we barley made.

Someone likes the ferry ride...

We stopped by the fish market to catch some lunch

Zuzu had a hard time deciding

Eventually she settle on bread.

After lunch, we watched the first part of the opening ceremony. Pretty neat with traditional Maori welcoming.

Soon however, the people started filing in...and in.. and in....This was only about a 1/4 of the area designated. Streets where closed, and people were nuts!!

Including our very own true All Blacks fan...

Eventually we left because it got to crazy, however it's been fun as the whole country has been united in our efforts to destroy the world in rugby.

Go The All Blacks!

In another magazine.

2011-09-07T03:41:00.000-07:00

Quite a while ago Kate and I were interviewed by a magazine editor on some of the recycle art we had done (11 post studio). Today that came out in print form on page 34 of a cool magazine called Idealog. We bought one.

bathtime

2011-09-02T15:29:00.000-07:00

All the Ladies in the House!

2011-08-31T03:41:00.000-07:00

Turns out that finding spare wood scraps on the side of the road lead to projects.

This time the project was to build a little chicken coop.

And what good is a little coop without some chickens?! SO WE GOT SOME! Woot Woot!!

Let me introduce you to our new ladies;

Thema, Wanda, Pearl, Flora and Marguerite.

The first day, our lovely beauties graced us with five fresh "organic' eggs, and we didn't waste any time cookin' them up for breakfast.

Mike's a stud and build this whole little number from scratch. It's great having a handyman around, I'm so proud of him and his assertive abilities. And while he's fantastic to have around the house, his chicken handling abilities will be limited, as in Alektorophobia: one having a fear of chickens

So we'll be eating a lot of eggs in the Maahs household from here on out (as if we didn't already) our table scraps will be divided between composting and chicken. How trendy are we?!

and here is my favorite little chook....

Yay for Chickens!!

For Names Sake!!

2011-08-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

Living in a country of only 4.5 million people and only about five major cities has it's advantages. Everything here seems so quaint and local. I recognize most places on all national t.v. shows, commercials, add. We see most "celebrities" on the streets and it's never a big deal. (however i'm still waiting to run into flight of the concords Jemaine Clemete). I don't know where I'm going this this, but this month Zuzu had a little featurette in a popular baby magazine. It was because of her unique name.

Ok, that's all, now she's waking up from her nap, got to go.

zuzu pants II

2011-08-06T21:36:00.000-07:00

What?! More photos of my kid?!...yeah..well...why not? Here's a good sum up of this week.

Bubble Time:

Swimming Time:

Playtime:

Swing Time:

Daddy Time:

Food Time:

Zuzu pants

2011-07-30T03:35:00.000-07:00

This is just a day in the life of my little girl. Pretty basic baby stuff, like drooling, but I posted it just so you can see how the little tyke is growing. Besides, who can resist that gummy smile?!

as of late

2011-07-26T03:24:00.000-07:00

I have gone back to work to cover for the hygienist for three weeks. Initially, I wasn't looking forward to early rising, hard working, time away from Mike and Zuzu. It's already week three and I've actually found that I really enjoyed being back with my co-workers and people (besides mike, of course) that I could have an actual conversations with. My patients are great and I've realized that I've genuinely developed relationships with them. They've been excited to see me and are always inquiring about my baby. I've missed being in the city and the ferry ride over from the island is a great time to unwind. It's actually pretty cool to commute to work by boat...provided I catch it on time. So looks like I'm hoping to be a part time working mom. My dental office is keen to have me back, so I'm sure that we'll make some sort of arrangements.

Yes, of course I missed Zuzu, and often, by the time that I got home she was already asleep. It breaks my heart to think of all the parents that both have to take on full time work and basically miss their child grow up. We all do what we have to, and at times like these, I actually have to give a shout out and thank my Dad for encouraging me to become a Dental Hygienist. It's a great skill that is always in demand and it's allowed us to travel and work in another country. It's been the perfect career for me and it allows me to work as little or at much as I want with fantastic pay. ($30-40/hr) For those that are considering, I recommend it.

Mike also had an interview with the city council last week that he said he nailed. It went really well and he is pretty positive that this might lead to something. We'll know about the job mid August. Fingers crossed!! Mike has been great, as always, and he's really taken on to the role as stay-at-home dad for the time being. It's actually quite humorous as he has gradually become more obsessed with laundry, dishes, keeping the house clean, and making sure that Zuzu has gotten all her scheduled naps. On one of his stroller walks he met a 'bloke' about his age named Barlow from Australia. Although I haven't met him, apparently he's quite the character. They've become good fishing 'mates', and when I'm lucky I come hope to freshly caught Snapper. Yum.

For those of you dying of heat, we are starting to get some winter over here. The south island has been hit with blizzards and the cold front is coming our way. The house we live in is basically a summer house. We don't get any direct sunlight in the winter so it's been miserable cold inside. The day isn't anything to complain about, but the nights are cold. We've been living upstairs, cozy with our little space heaters. Can't wait for summer and beaches!!

Zuzu's a bundle of fun. She just learned her consonants two days ago, so instead of a bunch of garbles, she tells us that she likes 'Dada' and 'Gaga'. Who knew?! After weeks of our little lark waking up at 5 am, she finally slept from 7 pm-6:30 am just last night. Let's hope that she can keep this up for us.

And that's our life in a nutshell.

week by week

2011-06-29T00:02:00.000-07:00

So it's been a great week and some good things have been happening....

1- Mike and I got to take our two good friends through the temple and watch them get sealed to each other. It was very intimate and my girlfriend was the only other witness. It was so neat to see these two, who have been preparing four years, experience this event. It brought back a lot of memories from when Mike and I got married. Almost five years already! He's so great, and I am always thankful that he continued to pursue me until I finally realized what I great guy he is. Love you babe.

2- Nothing official yet, but my boss wants me back, so I'm thinking about going back on a part time basis. Perhaps more on that later.

3- We've been having great success with the little stamp/stencil art work that we've been creating. It's crazy. We created our little company website and named it 11 Post Studio . In addition, we've outsourced on Felt.co.nz and Trademe.co.nz. Within one week, we had nine orders. Mostly for the He Tiki, which is pretty iconic over here. Also, I had a big design magazine called Idealog contact me for a featurette of our work! It will showcase our projects as well as a little bio about Mike and I. Pretty exciting.

I mentioned before how the Lord helps us by and by. I know he's continuously watching over our little family and although we are slightly unsure about our future, I have the faith that he will help us get to where we need to be.

....and this is what our little nugget has been up to latley.

happy fathers day, Grandpa J!!!

2011-06-19T20:17:00.000-07:00

2011-06-12T20:27:00.000-07:00

Sleeping through the night. Day three down, I think we're on a roll. So proud of you, kid.

June 8th

2011-06-07T18:02:00.000-07:00

I know that I posted about a month ago saying how fun a 3 month old is, but I lied. 4 months is SO much more fun! Zuzu wakes up happy to see us with big smiles and laughs. She is starting to talk, (or at least moan) and thinks I am the funniest person in the world. I'll get her laugh on here shortly. She is interested in the world around here and really starting to take everything in on a more cognitive level. The days are passing by faster and faster and everything has it's own little rhythm. Zuzu has really taken on to her little 'routine'. She's basically like clockwork and goes down for naps with out a hitch.

I went to a mums coffee group today and even before I saw the babies, I could tell by the unkept hair and tired eyes how old their babies ("bubbies" as they say here) were. I had forgotten how hard newborns were, and my heart just went out to them. I wish that I had listened a bit more when other mums would say "it get's easier, I promise". During our first 6 weeks of life I really struggled, until we got Zuzu's weight sorted. Newborns are exhausting and the excitement wears away when everything, especially sleep, is being compromised. So with all the challenges that come with each age, I'll take any of them over a newborn. Even this.

Also, good news, we posted our little artworks on a website that similar to a New Zealand "Etsy", called FELT. We had two pieces that sold! woo hoo!

Compsting

2011-06-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

There's this really cool mostly smell free composting system developed in Japan for high-rises called the Bokashi system. Its basically just two buckets on top of one another one with holes. So I made one. and here it is.

2011-05-30T19:43:00.000-07:00

not a great photo, but look at these cool mushrooms we came across on our walk. Psychedelic baby!

2011-05-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

Update: Mike and I have since tried to put the stame art we made online. No dice. Perhaps we'll try again. Meanwhile, I have them all up at a place called Upcycle. It's a community collective of recycled art and functional items. I volunteer there about once a week as well. It's pretty dead in the winter for tourist, however, this coming week is a holiday for the Queens birthday. My friend La Nae will be coming over and we may have a go at an arts festival that will be held at the local hall. For being such an "artsy" island, not much sells over here. Mike has also been making really cool art posters of local bands on photoshop. More on that later.

To lift our spirits, Mike took some photos of the sunset on the beach while I had a little run. Note: these have not been photoshopped. Purpose: To entice anyone to come and see us.

Since then, I have totally ruined my knees from running to hard, to fast, to soon. Mostly up hills as well. I have succumb to a morning P90X routine. Not as ideal as outside, but at least it's something. Maybe in 90 days I will be showing off a well ripped body....let's be honest, katie, just kidding.

Also, no luck on the job front. Every month the Lord has found a way to help us get by to the next, but all in all, it's been a rough market. We have a couple of leads with Auckland City council so we'll see how that goes. I will be inviting my family for a joint fast on June 5th. Please participate if you feel inclined to do so. We could use all the prayers possible!!

like mother like daughter

2011-05-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

Funny how a little baby can have so many different expressions. I put these ones up because at this moment, I thought she looked exactly like me as a babe. The only difference is that I would usually have a black eye, or perhaps some food on my face. I wish I had some of my baby photos to compare, but just trust me on this one.

Here is a fun photo session we had

2011-05-26T22:26:00.000-07:00

....and this is zuzu's way of saying she's finished!

Farmers Market

2011-05-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

So Mike was persistant enough to skillfully get the car out of it's jam the following morning, with enough time to get organized and head off to the market. We were able to make it after all.

We had a good time overall, fantastic setup, but alas, at the end of the day we had no sales. :(

Overall, it's ok, because this is what we figured by the end;
-Wasn't a tourist weekend, thus it was not very crowded
-The locals aren't necessarily going to browse the market for art that is a little more pricey, more-so not going to purchase it on a whim.
-Most locals go there to socialize and for the food....which, by the way, is fantastic
-People looking for "art" will most likely explore online or a gallery, and with the intentions to spend money

That being said, we have since put them up in a local gallery and on TradeMe (which you can see HERE) It's like a local Ebay. So far, we've had tons of views so....we'll see!!

Help me find the humor

2011-05-20T03:07:00.000-07:00

Mike and I have been working hard all week to have fun and sell our little art creations.

We got the packaging, prices, mike even made an excel spreadsheet, basically everything to get up and go to the crowded Farmers Market. In our excitement, and because I have the most talented husband in the world, he even made a WEBSITE!! Mainly just for fun, and it was free (hence the domain name) but check it out HERE. Lot's of time on our hands...yes. The only thing that we had left to do was mount the art, in which a friend had the mounting boards.

9:00 pm, Mike gets in the car. 9:01 pm Mike slides off the driveway, high centers the car, and pins it against a tree.

To his defense, we have an insanely treacherous driveway! This photo is actually a windy 45 degree decline from the house. Did I mention that a piece of the car made it into the house, now Mike can look behind himself wherever he goes.

A quick word about the Mitsubishi Escalante a.k.a. Lazarus

600 miles short of reaching 200,000 miles

broken into three times

stereo ripped out and stolen (two weeks ago)

no drivers side lock

front bumper held by zip tie

battery died and replaced last week

back side window has been replaced with plexiglass

paint is sun-faded to the primer

died on the side of the road, 3x

and now, + minus one rear view mirror

+ have to enter from the passenger side (which here, is on the left)

time owned:1 year

price paid: $600 NZD

So for now, Mike will be figuring out how to get the car back on the road tomorrow morning. The Farmers Market will be there next Saturday. And all we can do now is laugh....or read a book.

Month by Month

2011-05-16T04:20:00.000-07:00

Three months is where it's at. We've reached a milestone where Zuzu's personality is really starting to shine. She's eating well, sleeping well and we have our little routine down to the minute almost. She's just like clockwork. It's also great because she's still very portable. It's been fun to see her really starting to develop and figure out her surroundings. Last week, she discovered her hands, so they have become her little companions. She'll often have conversations with them when she can see them up in the air in front of her face, and when they're not in her face, they're in her mouth. Although a tough audience at times, we can get her to laugh, which is quite hilarious. I'm thinking of posting on a YouTube channel for those of you that would like to follow our growing babe. I don't want to swarm the internet with my child, but it's so important to me that friends and family be a part of her life. For now though, I'll let it slide and post these at her cutest.

As of late

2011-05-16T03:14:00.000-07:00

Mike and I have been enjoying the end of the summer. We can tell that winter is just around the corner, so we are taking advantage of every sunny day left. Lots of little hikes around the coast and in the "bush". There are these cute little fan tail birds that follow us when we hike to catch what we brush up from the dirt. Also, there is a tennis court around the corner, so we've tried our hand at that. You'd think that because my family had a private tennis court growing up that I would be somewhat decent at the game. Not as easy as riding a bike after years. Most of the time, it ends up with mike being frustrated at my lack of skill. I am getting better, however, little by little.

Meanwhile, and more importantly, we have been quite nervous as Mike hasn't found any work despite the hundreds of applications he's applied for. There are a couple of leads, but it's also quite a waiting game. Darn Auckland City. We've decided to try to make a little money on the side by selling Art!! And what a better place to do it than Waiheke, the most artsy fartsy place on the north island. We've come into a bunch of stamps and have decided to put them to use. So we've spent this past week making stencil/stamp art for the local farmers markets. I have to admit, with the work that we've seen so far, let's just say we may sell out fast. Most of the locals are old timers and have been setting the same stuff out for years. Years I tell you. I saw a Suzanne Sommers Thigh Master last time I was there. Anyway, it's been a fun week working our creative energies together and trying to come up with something that might sell. We've been trying to target the tourists for starters and then we'll go from there. We'll see how it goes and I'll keep you posted. We still are looking for a little name for ourselves, so any suggestions are welcome. Here are some samples that we've done so far....

(Christchurch)
(Auckland City Council Logo)
(Fantail bird)

2011-04-24T20:58:00.000-07:00

And in the end

2011-03-31T02:29:00.000-07:00

Two weeks have passed since trying to put the pounds on my daughter. It's been rough and exhausting for all of us. We went from not getting enough milk from me, to toping Zuzu off with bottled formula after a feed. She really took to the bottle. Who wouldn't love this new way of getting a lot more juice with half the effort. In fact, she loved it so much, the she decided that she didn't want to nurse any more. That phase was difficult as well. Cathie and I next tried this sexy little device that feeds the formula down a tiny little tube that's taped on to my breast, to help Zuzu latch back on. Yup, and i thought all decency ended at the breast pump, but there were other levels that I untapped. Trying to up my milk supply and keeping Zuzu happy to put on pounds was exhausting. The tube device got her the formula, but in the end I couldn't feed my baby enough. So bottle feeding it is. She also gets the milk I pump as well. So now we're on week one of full bottles and I have to say that everyone in my family is happier. Mike can feed Zuzu, connect with her and give me a break. It also give me a peace of mind to know the quantity she is getting every time as well. Most of all, Zuzu gained 2.2 lbs last week, which is a lot in baby world. She is so much more enjoyable and her cheeks are there to pinch now!

-I'll tell you what, no one tells you how hard it can be. If you asked me three weeks ago if I'd be using bottles, I wouldn't have believed it. I even attended all the classes on nursing, determined to get it right. Even though the mechanics where right, I don't think that I could have done anything more about my situation. I don't feel bad, especially here in NZ, where breastfeeding is immensely encouraged, and even more so on this island. I'm glad I had the support I did, and I'm more so that my baby is healthy.

isty bitsy, teeny weeny

2011-03-19T01:06:00.000-07:00

We had a little bit of a hiccup w/ Zuzu and her weight. She was gaining 100 g/wk and ideally babies gain about 150 g/wk. Although she was alert and strong, she was just seemed to skinny to me. The midwife that I had here on the island said everything was fine, but I didn't really feel confident in her diagnosis. I decided to discharge my midwife and go see the child well health services for a second opinion. They have baby/child specialists that see to the growth and development. As soon as I saw the specialist, Cathie, she immediately referred me to the general practitioner that day. After five weeks, Zuzu was just getting back to birth weight of 8 lbs! We did some tests and apparently I've been starving my poor baby. I don't have a very sufficient milk supply and she was only getting about half the amount of food. :(

It was a bit of a scare for us, but I've been working with Cathie in getting up my supply and "topping up" Zuzu w/ formula or expressed milk after her feeds. I'll say that that even after day one, Zuzu was such a happier, more content baby. I knew that there must have been a reason for her being so grumpy all the time. We're trying to get her to gain about 300 gm this week. Basically that's 15 lbs a week for a normal 150 lbs individual. So by next week hopefully she'll be a plumper, happier baby that can finally fit into all her clothes. And we'll be able to tell, because this week she learned to smile! I keep telling myself she's smiling at me, but the other day i caught her in her car seat smiling at her moving feet, so I guess it doesn't take much.

So with weight on my mind, I haven't really been concerned with mine. There is definitely baggage around the stomach area, but that's a given after baby, right?! I figure that I need to feed this baby and get her fattened up, so a little extra padding and good healthy food is in order. As my sister kelly said, "this year I'm in the underground" ...for my looks that is. And crazy how boobs have taken over my life. They have risen to their functional purpose and with feeding and pumping and lactation consultants and milk supply, they're just another thing to look after. I'll spare you any photos, but meanwhile...

Anne Geddies, you ain't got nothin' on this! (this is supposed to be funny)

baby

2011-03-06T23:54:00.000-08:00

Note: Let it be said that this blog will now become saturated with photos of my daughter. Why? Because since the day of her birth, she is all the occupies my time. Her and facebook. Here are some of my favorites within the past four weeks;

3 days old:3 weeks old:
30 minutes old:
5 days old:
4 weeks old:

Here is us on a good day

2011-03-06T23:44:00.000-08:00

Zuzu's Kowhai Tree

2011-03-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

There is a New Zealand tradition to plant a tree on top of the placenta of a newborn. This gives the tree the best start possible and really sets up a parent to follow that advice. The tradition isn't limited to New Zealand but wherever its origins the tree will always be a reminder and something growing in tangent with my daughter. We were lucky enough to plant the tree on Waiheke Island on a spot of land belonging to a friend. The land will be passed down to family and so will the tree. I like that. Family and friends and land and trees all celebrating the same circle. Christopher and Tasha Clifford were there with us making the occasion even more dense with loved ones. Zuzu is lucky to have a reminder of her life abroad and growth in tangent with all those in her life.

one day it will look like this.

Zuzu baby. And mommy.

2011-02-20T01:07:00.000-08:00

If you listen carefully you may get some humor out of this clip. I asked, and it doesn't embarrass her, it's just part of being a 5 day old baby!

Welcome to the world, Zuzu Collette

2011-02-14T23:13:00.001-08:00

As you can imagine, these past two weeks have been quite life changing. From the anticipation of a new baby for the past nine months to finally having the little angel in my arms.

A birthing story:

Expected Due Date: January 25th.

Mike and I had moved from our apartment in Auckland city to a little island called Waiheke, as you can see from my previous post. A quick 25 min ferry ride from the city that take you from the hustle and bustle of cars and retail to nice slow island life. The plan was to swap houses with our good friends La Nae and Orlo and their little bubby Rhodes. Lucky for us, they live right next to the birthing center. January 25th came and went, and even though the baby had dropped into position I knew that nothing was about to happen any time soon. We finally decided to head over to La Naes apt around the 29th.

Now that Mike and I were in the city, with no signs of baby movement, we decided to commemorate (?!) our last nights as a childless couple. Night one; Dinner at the Yakatori bar. Night two; Turkish food; Three; Concert in the city (featuring Beach house, Deerhunter and Blond redhead) Four; Sals pizza, Five; South African BBQ at friends house. By this time, we're pretty irritated and more lbs packing on, not necessarily caused by baby.

And then, the morning of February 5th are when the contractions started. Finally!! We're in business!!

Contractions: basically like strong strong menstral cramps. Pretty intense at first, but the endorphines kicked in and you just have to "ride the wave" as they say. These contractions came about every 15-20 mins lasted about 30 secs and didn't stop for two days!!! Here is when we were trying to speed things up...walking walking walking.

At the beach;

At the museum;

At the chinese shop;

At the park;

**Here's when the kicker started. My midwife called at 6pm Sat night while Mike and I were at the park. She told me that when the contractions came, instead of trying to distract from the intensity, work with them and imagine my body pushing the baby down. So I did. Yes it hurt, and by 2 am in the morning I wasn't 'exactly' two mins apart to go in, but with the pain of the last four contractions I was ready for my epidural! "Mike, wake up! It's time to go!" I called the midwife, told her that I couldn't control the urge to push, and she said "Call an ambulance and get to the birthing center!" As soon as we heard that, it was a paniced rush to the door, grabbing the semi packed bags and a quick drive (no ambulence) to the birth center. (that was my movie moment)

Arrival. Dialation, NINE! (ten is push worthy) Happy day! We're having a baby! The midwife came, filled up the birthing pool I was in there for about 2-3 more hours. Decided to get out, and 20 mins later, little 8 lbs Zuzu Collette was born!

I am very aware that my experience was a miracle in itself. I'm so happy that we are all healthy and everything went smoothly with absolutely no complications. I'm happy that I could listen to my body and trust it to labor in it's own due course with out any thing, person, or clock pushing me along. I'm happy that I recovered fantastically and was up and walking 20 mins after birth with out any side effects of medications. I'm grateful for my husband and the constant support, he was such a champ! And I'm mostly grateful that my little Zuzu is here. In my arms. Alive and well. Surrounded by people who love her.

Actual Due Date: February 6th, 5:30 am 8 lbs

Waiheke Island move.

2011-01-13T15:40:00.000-08:00

At the library, using their internet, I finally have a chance to update everyone on where we are at...All within either 100MB or 20 mins of library time. Which ever runs out first. How do they expect people to have any type of internet life with that amount of time?!

The move was smooth. One week of deep cleaning our little apartment (mostly mike, and me directing) and a morning of moving some boxes. Amazing what can accumulate within 1 yr 1/2 of just living.

Sometimes I don't know how much I need a change in my routine of things until it's forced upon me. I thought that our little apartment in the city was ideal. Everything was so 'convenient'. However, now that we have completely turned our lifestyle around with the move, I am so much happier to be where we're at. It's summertime over here and the place that we moved to has been absolutely fantastic. We now are on a little island 30 mins ferry ride from the city. Waiheke island is a small community known for it's artisians (aka hippies) and wineries. This place is SO beautiful stalked full of beaches, walks, beautiful sea green fishing waters and kayaking, boats and community oriented events. Farmers markets, honey farms, small cinemas and local events to keep everyone busy. The pace of life has been slowed down and Mike and I feel that we could get accustomed to this very fast ;) It really feels and looks like a hawaiian paradise. And if any of the above sounds enticing...PLEASE come and stay with us!!

The place where we live is great. Mike H. built it some years back and it's been so nice and relaxing. There is a massive deck with a BBQ and sea views. Mike (my husband) has unleashed numerous handyman skills. He's built a mailbox, cleaned a shed, dug out a fire pit, lot's of random stuff around the house. We've since planted a garden, with beautiful tomatoes, silver beet, aloe vera and lot's of herbs. (compleate with a compost pile too!) We live on rain water and hang our laundry out to dry. It's been nice to simplify life and just relax on the beach until baby comes.

Meanwhile baby is ready and in position. I have about a little more than a week left, but she'll probably come late. I still feel great, and I can literally feel her getting bigger by the day. We're so excited and grateful for everything we have. We have to thank Mike and Dot for allowing us to live in their bach. I know that there are very few times in life that we can enjoy this lifestyle with such little worries and inconveniences. They have really been a blessing in our lives.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T01:02:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Maahs's. Christmas is a time to be happy with the people you love...
And later in the day to sleep....And have your husband take photos of you when you least expect
...And to get him back in the same way. (to be fair, I staged all the goods)
...And walk around town with a belly full of love.

Due date: January 25th. Start marking the calendars!!

Pregnancy update -Week 34/40

2010-12-18T23:50:00.000-08:00

Yep, she's still in me, kicking and moving and shakin' her tail feather. With only FIVE, yes FIVE weeks to go Mike and I are getting pretty excited to meet the little kiwi.

Pregnancy Complaint One: Heartburn. Boy oh boy, its been coming like a vengeance. I have my liquid bottle of Mylanta and the dependency for the stuff is getting stronger by the day. And yet, if I could just say NO to the spicy indian curries and burritos and sauces I have a strange feeling the heartburn would become a bit more mild...

Pregnancy Complaint Two: Dry eyes. Yeah, I don't really know what's been going on, but I wake up every morning looking like I've been up all night partying. Even my vision has been a little off. Apparently it is all prego related so I'll just have to roll with it.

Pregnancy Complaint Three: Now that baby has developed all the goods, it's just putting on the poundage from here on out. She gets heavier by the day and I'm starting to feel it. I still look pretty slim everywhere else, but with the heat coming on, I'm sure the swelling will start. No stretch marks so far, however, so I guess that statement voids out any other further complaints that I have. But when they come, I'm sure you'll hear about it.

For the past six weeks we have been going to antenatal classes over at the birthing center. We we're probably the youngest couple there of about eight. Its fun to see all of the other protruding bellies and get to talk about them with empathy. (but its not like I haven't been seeing pregnant women everywhere) The classes we're pretty good and I have to say that my husband was probably the most well informed in the baby department. His preparation for baby has well proceeded the past eight months. He probably could have taught the class. I have to say that he makes my upcoming job as a parent a lot less daunting because I know that we'll make such a great team.

Back to the pregnancy, here's an announcement; I will be delivering my baby Naturally at the birthing center. Yep, true story. It has taken me a lot of thought and study, but I feel so centered and even excited about my decision. A lot of what has influenced my decision was the American documentary called "The business of being born." (http://www.thebusinessofbeingborn.com/trailer.php) Although it's not all about how "natural is best", but more so on the process and as a woman being informed about all possible decisions. I would encourage anyone to watch it, but especially those in pregnancy world right now. Anyway, I trust my body to labor and I have a great husband and midwife to coach me through as well. I have been preparing myself in all the ways necessary and realize that I have to be flexible with my plan as well. The actual birthing center is fantastic, equipped with a birthing pool, other forms of pain relief and private room for up to four days after our kiwi arrives. So there you have it.

On another note, because I changed my decision on my birthing plan, I got another midwife named Amy. I was talking to her on the phone and this is how our conversations went.

Amy: "Oh, sounds like your North American, where are you from?"

Me: "The states"

Amy: "So am I. Which state?"

Me: "Utah"

Amy: "So am I! Which area"

Me: "Salt Lake"

Amy: "So am I!!!"

What are the chances?! I really like Amy and I'm sure she help me do a fantastic job of getting our baby out into the world.

Here are some photos about a month back. By the time our baby arrives, I may get recent pregnant photos up.

baby showers p.s.

2010-12-05T22:47:00.000-08:00

If you read this blog via reader or mail, you'll just have to go to the blogsite if you really really want to see the video. mkmaahs.blogspot.com

baby showers

2010-12-04T23:21:00.000-08:00

Being pregnant with child comes with so many perks. One of which is the love that gravitates towards this little unborn child. Mike and I have had so much support from the people in our lives to get this baby ready to take on the world.

My sister Brittney was so great to send out shower announcements and get support for our little baby girl's crib. Thank you for all that participated. Mike found a great little second hand white cot online and repainted the wood. I was so set on a port-a-cot for the practicality of it all, and us being so mobile right now, but in the end I gave in...yes I gave in and let Mike win the battle over beds. It will be great for her to have an official bed. The lesson I'm learning is that my way isn't always best, and it is his baby too.

My family and parents have been so supportive and in addition to their monetary gifts, have offered to fly us out to the states in April!!!! I'm so excited to see everyone and introduce them to the little kiwi. We'll have the baby blessing in Salt Lake and try to see as many friends and family as possible. Meanwhile, stuffing our faces with mexican food and everything else American. I'm also excited to fly 14+ hours with a two month old, there and back. Ha, just kidding.

My friend LaNae threw me a fantastic baby shower involving the women from our ward. It was a blast and we had lots of fun, cause what could be more exciting than babies?! I did love how she had everyone write a special message on the nappy for us. "'If this is poopy, it's for daddy.' '20 hour labor and now diapers! Happy mums day' 'thanks for waking up at 2 am'.

My good friend Mari from work threw me a surprise shower with all her friends from South Africa. I was so touched and she did such a fantastic job. All the partners there as well. We even got them changing nappies and sucking out of bottles. It was such a great shower and what touched me the most, is that most of these women I had only met once, but they were so excited for me and bought me practical baby gifts that I really needed. (being experienced moms themselves). Here is the movie she made....

Thanks everyone!!

As cool as I pretend.

2010-11-17T16:26:00.000-08:00

My wife Katie is having our first child and there are millions of things to be excited for. The first everything seems to be exciting and new. Except when you go to a place self titled the 'Baby Warehouse' and they have never heard of the one thing you are looking for, thats new and annoying. Katie's trying to eat as many spicy and exotic foods as she can, heart burn be damed, all in an effort to afford our little girl a sophisticated pallet. Some book said to try it, so now it's like a cool horoscope or fortune cookie that us parents get to craft. "You have a penchant for the spice of life." or "the moons of the second house rest in a cornucopia of flavor." Whatever the result its fun now and a great source of fodder.

By-the-way, indecision reaches no greater heights than the choices over baby items. I feel like locking myself in my buddy's workshop and coming out only after I have built all conceivable instruments of baby raising out of wood and sweat. The male DNA seems to want to create when there is chaos. Throw together some earth and wood and you have a home or order or you fix something or make something permanent.

Lately there has been a considerable amount of change; pregnancy, pregnancy getting closer to the end, Katie about to start maternity leave, I finished school, am now an out of work Master seeking work, applying for jobs, waiting to hear from everywhere, about to move, living abroad, contemplating a visit to the states, adding a baby to the mix, and creating a semblance of stability out of it all. Surrounded by all this quality chaos at least makes for good stories, and binds us to both the good and the bad.

Lately its been nice to "be a different person," as Katie puts it. I assume she is referring to the in school stressed Mike versus the blog writing in his underwear Mike. It is nice to allow the biggest stress to be my baby instead of having it washed away and unfelt in grad-school stress. It's only really been a week or so since my last exam but its space, space in which to sit back and realize things I've missed or not been able to enjoy. My wife, for example, is a standard of femininity and feminism and works hard for her family and as I try to play catchup and provide I have large shoes to fill. I am so proud of her and her abilities. Its amazing to see our roles change and adapt. These pictures kinda sum up what will last and how easy it is to remember the good stuff.

I play the cool guy,

but I just want to make us laugh with my baby weight.

This post should get Katie off my back about contributing to the blog for a while. Ha.

waiheke island babies

2010-11-04T17:09:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I really hate blogging. Rearranging photos on this thing is a pain, and so when I finally completed post number one, pictures and everything, I was happy to check 'blogging' off my list for the day. In the middle doing whatever I always do to mess things up, I deleted the whole @#$% post. Next time it's mikes turn to blog.

So here is the back up. With no final touches.

Waiheke babies. We all ventured over to Waiheke Island and hung out there for a couple days. Very much needed time away from the city.

My friend LaNae has the most beautiful baby boy, Rhodes. It's been such a neat journey as I have been able to see her through her pregnancy and finally get this precious boy here. He is such an angel baby and I want to eat him up. Six weeks in this photo. Isn't he adorable?!

>

Meanwhile, here's my baby....

Oh wait, I mean here in my belly...

Seven months already!!! Third trimester and it's going by so fast! And let's be honest. I'm pretty small, but my midwife says everything is on schedule and our girl is healthy, so I'm not complaining about a thing.

And this is our husbands babies...Doing everything possible to in watching the warriors rugby game on an old school tv in the middle of an island. They even broke out the tinfoil.

The t.v. crashed halfway throughout the game. I guess all babies can make us frustrated at times. Especially blogging.

birthday-end of the twenties

2010-10-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for your thoughts and good wishes on my Birthday. Last of my 20's so trying to live them up before I have to start becoming responsible.

It was a great day. No work, no stress, just relaxin' and enjoying the day. I have mention how creative my friends are. First of all, the wonderful Trajan and Maree Schwanke gifted me "my own puzzle of mine". To appreciate this reference, you first have to be an avid listener of "tips for your health" by Dr. Steve Brule. He gives practical advise for everyday living. Tip number #3 from living alone included making a puzzle from your stuff.

So Trajan and Maree made me a puzzle that I can put together so I'll be occupied durring my lonely times. Check it here

Mind you, they Made the puzzle and the box. Also, Trajan is working on a series called "Transfor-maahs". So far he's drawn Opti-maahs prime;

also Soundwave, which is me. notice the baby

Brilliant. Let it be said that I have very creative friends. Also, a proud mention that Trajan just got into the Design program at the local university. Good on ya' mate!

Great lunch with girlfriend La Nae and baby Rhodes.

Flowers from my husband.

Great post from my sister kelly found here.

And the day ended with a nice chocolate indulgence with my two friends Louise and Mari at the Chocolate Boutique.

Birthdays are great.

2010-10-12T02:13:00.000-07:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Courtesy of my sister brittney. LOVE IT!!!

School is almost finished!! Three weeks and counting....

2010-10-12T01:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Mike

This term marks the end of sleepless nights, stressful deadlines and endless, endless papers. I am so proud of you for fighting your way (yes, it's been quite a battle) through this Masters program in Urban Planning. Even though I went through some similar intensities with my dental hygiene program, it no where near compares all of the work that you have had to undergo. The program has been relentless and you have been one of the very few that has stuck it out to the end. I admire your determination to follow through in your studies and take in the bigger perspectives of where this education will take you in life. Thank you for your dedication to our family. I am so thankful that I married you. I am grateful for you and what we have accomplished together.
I love you so much it hurts!!

-your wife.

Dear Internet,

Mike is going to kill me, but I have to share this with you before I forget.

The other day when we were taking one of our many walks in the city, Mike turned to me and very thoughtfully said, " I just love it when I see really large people that dress well. It makes me happy. It's like sighting a unicorn."

As of late

2010-09-29T01:11:00.001-07:00

As of late, Mike and I have been trying to acquire baby stuff. What a chore! Mostly because this baby world is like a parallel universe. It has always existed, but I've just been in another dimension these past 29 years. Now that we've been thrown into it, we have to learn the language and try to fit in. No turning back now.

We started at Babies 'R Us (but said in a kiwi accent) the other day. After 20 minutes of browsing, we ended up just laughing at ourselves because we had no idea what anything was for. Seriously, how many out there even know what a Bumbo is?! My point exactly.

In the end, we've decided to stick to the basics and try not to get too much stuff. Besides, how much stuff do infants need anyway?! Being the non-affluent people we are, mind you, still in starving student mode (until november!!) We've decided to buy most baby stuff second hand through the NZ equivalent of ebay called Trademe.

Baby item #1; Port-a-cot. After weeks of searching, I found a Graco for auction (apparently a good brand) that had this picture exactly -------->

Featured as very new and in good condition

5 stars!

I won it at a good price, hooray!

Mike and I went to pick it up from the seller.

The lady didn't speak much english.

First clue

She said it was brand new and used it for her first boy.

Looking at the kid, he was five years old.

Second clue.

Buy rules, we are obligated to buy it.

So how, may I ask, does the Graco go from that picture -->

to this -->...

...and be different colors

...and be covered in hair

...and smell like urine. no joke.

Experience with buying baby item #1. 0 out of 5 stars.

Not to worry. We have resold the thing, with the actual photos posted, and have learned a good lesson. When it comes to the basic investments, buy new.

Again, as of late;

and

We miss all of you!!!

2010-09-14T01:12:00.000-07:00

Naked and Famous. Song; Young blood.

These guys are pretty popular here and their band happens to be named after one of my favorite Tricky songs. Tricky was the artist that started up my whole obsession with trip hop back in the early nineties.

2010-09-13T04:39:00.001-07:00

funniest thing that I've seen all week.

2010-09-10T15:36:00.000-07:00

Update. Everything is well. Everyone is healthy. Count our blessings. According to the books, this week our kiwi baby girl is developing her ability to swallow. Along with that comes the taste buds as well. Apparently, the flavors of the foods that I eat are somehow resembled in the amniotic fluid. As she swallows, her palate becomes a little more developed for the foods that I have eaten. Crazy. So guess who's eating her broccoli :)

2010-09-08T02:04:00.000-07:00

For such a small little country of 4 million... (44 million if your counting sheep) New Zealand is doing it's job in keeping the local music seen alive. Although most of the time you'll hear typical Dub music blasting in blown out subwoofers (sub genre of reggae), the locals keep it alive with a mixture of respectable tunes. I know that you really can't get better than Flight of the Conchords, but for a variety, I'll share some tunes happening here on this side of the world.

Computers want me Dead - We walk in Circles

Dad, daddy, father, pop, pops, padre, old man

2010-09-06T00:08:00.000-07:00

There's been millions before, but she only gets one, and I guess there's comfort in that. There's so many theories, books and 101's out there that 'dad' is more like some sort of mythical creature or super handy handy man, than average joe schmo. Not that I'm setting up for mediocrity, but more so just trying to find a little originality. To be honest thats the stuff I think will benefit my little girl the most, explaining the obscure, speaking to insight, and making her mix CDs until I'm too old by her definitions.

I've noticed that when I'm around my nieces and nephews and other little ones, I challenge their little comments and world views until I get something silly in response. Really, its just to get them to talk beyond the usual, cause thats ultimately the funniest. I always valued the banter with my parents and even as a kid realized when my father was silently impressed.

So having a girl as the first child distances me from the first hand but I have a wife that if she's anything like will be joyful and crazy and I'll know a little more about her. My daughter will call me something resembling Dad, but the important thing is that I know she'll make me her own.

2010-09-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

Bring out the pink, because we're having a baby

GIRL!!!

Mike and I are so excited. The ultrasound was great. We were given all of the photos and a DVD of the whole experience. She was a mover and a shaker at the time and the sonographer had to chase her around. Nice long legs and healthy all over. The sonographer also said that she has a little "ski jump" nose. Where did she get that from?! Take a look!!

We are all looking forward as our little baby kiwi girl gets to know all of you in her life.

2010-08-29T00:38:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, I have had a pretty steller pregnancy. Yeah, there were a couple tough days here and there, but according to a lot of things that could go wrong, I've been counting my blessings. The first trimester sums up as this: I was able to work through w/ out any problems, come home and fall asleep in my scrubs. Day after day. Mikey-mike was great with the little things and his enthusiasm counteracted my emotional/grumpy ways. If I had to give some thought to complaining it would be that my sciatic nerve acted up once in a while. With all the loosy-goosy ligaments down there, my pelvis seemed to had twisted this way and that. So off to the Chiropractor I went...for free. Thanks New Zealand.

There have been a lot of ups and downs to us moving here, but one of the things that we have been very fortunate to take advantage of is the countries socialized system. The government has decided to be so kind as to pay for; uh hum...all maternity doctors visits, midwife throughout and after the pregnancy up to a year, expected birth with 4 nights hospital stay, antenatal classes to teach us how to take care of the wee thing, and anything that could go wrong. Also, 14 weeks paid maternity leave and my job has to hold my position for up to a year. Mike is entitled to 5 weeks leave from his future job as well. What a great blessing this has been for us. Thanks New Zealand, it's been swell. -oh, and did I mention the little kiwi will have dual citizenship. Score.

Here's the downside. Durring this precious time, Mike and I have been missing our friends and family so much. We have a lot of support here, but it's just not the same as having your family around for advise or sharing in with these experiences. I'm so, so excited for my sister Kelly to come and show me her motherly ways when the little kiwi is born at the end of January. Goodness knows we will need her help.

Here's 10 weeks...

18 weeks and counting...

this is just to familiar to my world

2010-08-29T00:37:00.001-07:00

August 16th 2011

2010-08-16T00:36:00.001-07:00

So,..what have we been up to lately? Well, one think is for sure, not blogging. It's true, blogging is not my favorite thing to do, and I'm trying to get mikey mike back on board, but hey, here's the countdown.

We went to Marthas Backyard. A store dedicated to ...AMERICAN FOOD!! I think that our lives can officially be complete now. I never knew how much American junk food truly sparks so much happiness after not having any for quite some time. After sorting out our priorities on our list, we left with the following items;

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Dorritos

Poptarts

Sweet Baby rays BBQ sauce

Ranch dressing

Capt'n Crunch Cereal

Jiffy cornbread mix

Bisquick pancakes

Country time lemonade

Red Vines

Bulk Jar of Dill pickles

Naturally none of the items listed above, or in the whole store, had any nutritional value, but would it really be called American if it wasn't somehow slightly processed? Besides, do veggies really grab that soft spot in your heart like a big bowl of Capt'n Crunch Cereal?!

Next, finding the best mexican food. I've tried to explain to Kiwi's the soul fulfilling addiction that comes with this genre of food. It's a fix that is needed on a regular basis, and if not attended to, us americans can experience withdraws. They just don' t understand. We have tried a couple of places, but have yet to find something to our liking. Our friend LaNae took us to one place owned and operated by real Mexicans. Not to bad, but just ok. So far, the best has been made in our own home, and there's a Mexicali joint down by the waterfront owned by a Californian surfer dude that's pretty good. So far here, the food has been great. Thai, check, Indian, Japanese, anything ethnic, check. But Mexican food has yet to be discovered.

Watching TV. Yeah, you heard me. There has been a lot of tv watching at my place lately. We got a new flat screen from the landlord and have been enjoying the likes of New Zealands next top model, Family guy, and the Eddie Murphy marathon that has been on for the past month.

Also, I've been really busy making life! Yep, everyday for the past 17 weeks! Mike and I are expecting a Baby and the end of January! We have been so excited and everything involved with the pregnancy has run very smoothly. I'm just starting to actually look pregnant and not like I have a mean gut, and my clothes are getting tighter and tighter. I guess this explains my urge to buy a large jar of pickles, craving for mexican food, and lazy t.v. watching. More to come....

Christchurch

2010-07-31T23:54:00.000-07:00

Mike and I flew down to Christchurch this weekend. It was fun.

Just a Thought

2010-07-28T23:29:00.001-07:00

I listen to a lot of podcasts en route and am currently working through an extensive backlog. To my delight or dismay, I can't decide yet, these current events become history after a week or two. Although I'm fairly sure I've never come across any exclamation points within the pages of my history books growing up, podcasts listened to weeks after the fact seem to be overly reactionary no matter the source. Since traditionally history books are highlights, I wonder if anyone is ever going to put together a serious compilation of podcasts to represent blocks of recent history. Like I said, just a thought.

get me out of the city...BIRDmen & bays of islands

2010-07-14T04:17:00.000-07:00

Auckland is a good time thats for sure though too many days or weeks in a row stuffed into our apartment being sick or writing papers necessitates fresh air. The city feels like an iron lung every so often. The feeling that your regular movements become labored and repetitious and then all you can think about is the bloody repetition. So every other week or so we have to get beyond our familiar walls and city streets into something green. This past weekend we were both sick as dogs but couldn't let a forecast of nothing but sun hold us back.

Katie and I are both very spontaneous. I want to stress now that sometimes spontaneity is hipster laziness. I mean we planned the crap out of this little trip but with no definition. Researched the cheapest hotels in 5 possible locations and got brochures for more activities than you could shake a stick at. The thing is we could never decide on anything. Being sick might have taken the fun out of choosing, though I would always bring up amenities as my trump card to the selection process and foul the whole thing up.

Eventually a direction was chosen and by the time darkness came we ended up in the Bay of Islands. Pitch black night is the worst setting by which to gauge the quality of hotel establishments based on sight. The Nautilus was definitely a let down although it made for great fodder and an interesting jacuzzi story.

The next day we found an amazing suite on the beach that through my powers of negotiation got upgraded at no charge. The place was about 4 times bigger than our apartment.

That day spontaneity won our hearts when randomly we decided to take a ferry ride to the neighboring bay for lunch and found ourselves in the middle of the Russell Bird Man Festival. People jumping off piers in weird costumes and the general party atmosphere that comes with the beer fueled excitement of a qwerky little kiwi town.

As a subconscious rule of thumb I like to buy my meals on vacations but to be honest the kitchen at our hotel room was beging to be used and not just lay their like an unused Dwell magazine add. The food was great, the company was stunning, and the dimmer switch actually worked (all the ones I've tried here have failed for some reason, which is way more of a let down than you might think).

Over the course of our 3 day mini vacation we went from deathly sick, to moderate nasal torment, to feeling better. Sometimes you just need to breath I guess.

Feliz Cumpleanos

2010-06-19T02:37:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun with my cute friends from work. It was Mari's birthday so we all went out and celebrated at the Mexican restaurant by my house. As any true American knows, Mexican food is embedded in who we are as people. It's like schnitzel to Germans, waffles to Belgians, won-tons to Chinese, elven bread to a quest to Mordor. It's just a part of our blood. So my excitement to celebrate a special day with Mari at Mexican Cafe' was intensified when I found out it was their first time with the experience. Who knew that the Mexican food in South Africa, England, and New Zealand is practically non existent. A once previous staple to my weekly diet.

The menu consisted of everything expected, including slight descriptions of each below the heading. All the same ingredients, but listed in a different order. I explained the difference between a burrito and quesadilla, and told them how to pronounce each item. The meal was great (a little off in a kiwi way) and every one liked it...even if they did put their salad on top of the enchilada.

cough. cough.

2010-05-29T22:15:00.000-07:00

These past few weeks have been the definite change of seasons. Mother nature is letting it be known that warm summer days are at their end and winter is here to take it's place. Winter in Auckland is pretty temperate. If you can stand the rain, which is most of what it will be for the next five months. Being an long island, the clouds move super fast throughout the sky and the weather comes with it. It will be bright and sunny, clear skies and then 15 mins later a complete down pour. Followed by the next 20 minutes of a sunny stretch. It's kind of fun, but you have to plan for ever season upon leaving the house.

Coupled with the winter approaching comes sickness as well. Mike and I have both been super sick this past week. I usually get tonsillitis about two times a year, so I was in bed with tonsils the size of golf balls and a persistent cough. In the bed next to me was Mike with a really bad fever. Being sick is no fun. Not only that, but no matter what age I am, I still miss my mom taking care of me in my vulnerable state. Mike usually does a fantastic job, but this time around he was out of commission, and I couldn't help him either. Fortunately, we're on our way up and back to business as usual. Thanks healthy body for functioning in all the right ways, even though I often complain about your appearance. And thanks a lot, flu shot, for not doing your job. Meanwhile, I hope the rest of your enjoy your spring going into summer.

Waiheke weekend take II

2010-05-02T01:25:00.000-07:00

What a great relaxing weekend. Thanks to these guys,
We were able to have a great get-a-way from the city and spend some time on a little island about 20 mins on a ferry from Auckland.

Before we left, Mike and Dot were so great to take us to Thai Food at Tusk. We had a great meal and boy was I excited when the waitress put this on the table...

Probably looks like the most scariest thing you've ever seen. But the fish was actually really good. Or as they say here, "beautiful", "nice" or "lovely". We finished up a nice authentic Thai meal, and then off to Waiheke island.

Here are some highlights....
First the boat...
Little bit of random are sculptures in the park..
Orlo, helping very pregnant LaNae up the steep driveway
monster centipede. Fortunately it was dead

Maple syrup on my ice cream. why ever not?

Orlo waking Mike up from his nap
Infamous "Man Burger" that the boys got. Compleate with; two beef patties, steak, ham, fried egg, lettuce, pineapple, carrots, beetroot, cheese on a sesame seed bun. Beat that Micky D's. We may have paid $15 for the burger alone, but the indigestion that follows is priceless.

Fun in the sun. Right behind mike is the nude beach section. We had to find out the hard way.

And yet, another goodbye

2010-04-27T02:53:00.000-07:00

For the past year, life in New Zealand has been a series of making new friends that find their way into our hearts...usually just in time to leave.

So here's to The Laws!

It's been such a fantastic summer with these two in our lives. Jon and Aly came all the way from Utah, just to add a fresh, vibrant dynamic to our existing crew. Having them around enhanced our fun-o-meter tremendously. They far out did everyone with their stellar city apartment, overlooking the ocean, but were more than gracious, hosting many a BBQ at their house. From the day they showed up, we eagerly bombarded them with camping, picnics, festivities, get togethers and more, hardly giving them a chance to breathe. But with suffocation comes experiences, memories, family, faith and a bonded friendship that will always remain dear in our hearts. Jon and Aly, here's to starting your new chapter in life. Thanks for making the summer of 2009/10 a full-on blast!!

Goodbye friends

2010-04-18T03:02:00.000-07:00

Oh, how we love our friends The Robisons.

Sloane, Sonna and little Ruthie-girl. We are going to miss you so much as you leave New Zealand to continue your life in Las Vegas. This past year has been so memorable because you have been here to share your lives with us. There has been such a united bond with the NZ family that we have created with you and your little three foot spunk-o-love. You have made Mike and I feel so welcome in your lives and we appreciate the openness and love you have demonstrated. We have had so much fun together and learned by your examples. You are wonderful parents and fabulous friends. Looking back on this year we have established so many fond memories that will forever resonate within. Birthdays, music, potlucks, toddlers, photos, conversations. Beaches, camps, picnics, dinners, parks, vacations, errands, life. Family, church, runs, jokes, laughter, hardships, support. Thank you for letting us into your inner lives and being apart of ours. We will miss you!

live.love.life.

2010-04-17T02:59:00.000-07:00

Drinking to many red bulls, no guilt, stimulation, energy, thoughts, a little more provoked. practicing spelling, practicing spanish, weight, loosing weight, feeling fit, enjoying my body, enjoying eating right, trying to cut sugar, loving the way I feel, feeling the existence of my working muscles, appreciating my body, being a woman, alive and everything I am. Work getting better, trying harder, mending ways, feeling confident, knowing my place. liking my job. My aching back, ergonomics, spine, awareness. hating slow internet, to much time wasted. FB stalking of course, not blogging enough. Friends having babies, baby books, thinking babies, Friends, leaving for the states, so sad. Making new friends. cultures upon friends. teachings from the UK, South Africa, Samoa and more. church callings, youth, what can I give. connecting with God. service. my loving husband, how much I love him. appreciating him, ironing, cleaning, forever my best friend. making love. making no money, living on twenty dollars a week, school stress, starting school, excited that it's almost over. getting residency, weights are lifted, options become endless. getting closer to stability, planing our life, who we are becoming, soaking in moments, actively making our world, working towards goals, life in new zealand. city is to crowded. to loud to sleep. weather is turning, leaves changing, staying out doors, festivities, musical concerts, friends, bikes, loving the city. don't want to leave. visiting the states, nostalgia sets in. Missing salt lake and conveniences. sisters wedding, couldn't be happier, new beginnings for her. new addition for us. the start of something grand. Happiness in Family. Happiness in Friendships. Happiness in Love.

Why we (feel compassionately moderate) about us.

2010-03-09T18:16:00.000-08:00

For those of you not familiar with the University semester schedule here in New Zealand, let me first say there is barely time to learn (12 weeks). Secondly, there's a lot of time to play. Lastly, my summer was about 3 months long. The past year here has been full of beaches, new people, and love. This past year at school was the opposite of that. I thought, at least for a little while, that I had fallen out of love with my major of Urban Planning. Turns out my drab teachers and endless powerpoints were the culprits. This semester, in only it's second week, Planning has hiked up its metaphorical skirt while showing me its metaphorically insightful and deep side. Infatuation isn't long lasting, though feeling connected and purposeful with your interactions is. Thus ends my love note to planning.

Side note, this book is great. My wife makes fun of me because it takes me so long to read books. The thing is I devour words, phrases and meanings both obvious, and subtle. I wade waist deep in every book I commit to. For me that process is the enjoyment. So here's my latest that everyone has probably read though big thanks to Kelly for the recommendation.

wedding and birthday

2010-02-28T23:40:00.000-08:00

My friend Kristina said that if you're not posting, it must mean that you're having fun. Very true. Mike and I have been having ton's of fun these past weeks, but if there was one party that we wish we were at, it would be Kristinas!! Not just any party though, my dear friend got married this past weekend and I am so happy for her! Taco carts, art, friends and fun, but most importantly the honored couple;

Kristina
and her wonderful husband,
Jeffery

Kristina came in to my life when I was just about to loose faith in finding any cool people in my singles ward. I had been there a little under a year and try as I may, I didn't relate anyone. One more FHE ice cream outing would put me to my death. And then there was this girl sitting in sacrament with short, black, straight hair. promising. cool scarf and dress. double promising. orange tights. bingo! We met, instantly found all our commonalities and nominated each other best friends. I have been so fortunate to have Kristina as a friend for the past seven years.

There are so many reasons why Kristina is ultimately the coolest person ever. Here are the reasons why I think so; She has a fantastic eye for photography. Her night shots are phenomenal. We like the same music...or at least I like everything that she introduces me to. She helped me get my cool after my mission. She loves dogs and we would take long walks in the park together. Great conversations. Hard core camper/hiker. She has a alter-chemistry-geek ego. It's a whole different life, that even if she introduced us to it, we wouldn't get it. Mad skills at crochet. The only person that can make me laugh until I cry. We have the same humor. Just because things are immature, doesn't mean their not funny. She's a fantastic artist. We bonded over Cowboy bebop. We'll always have moab. Her style is always her own. Is not afraid of grandpa pants. Had an affinity for aqua-teen hunger force. She is a great thrift store finder. My secret lesbian girlfriend..yep, don't hate. Speaks like-fifty languages. Travels the world with ease. Has survived Georgia with out picking up an accent. Not afraid to show her great ugly camera face. Road trip queen. Definitely independent. Beats to her own drum. Has good taste in husbands. Oh yeah, and she introduced me to my husband!!

Kristina is a phenomenal friend and I love her so much! I am so happy that she has married Jeffery and I know that they will have so much fun together over the years.

one more thing....... Happy birthday!!!

Santa in the Summer

2009-12-16T22:50:00.000-08:00

Growing up in Utah has a lot of advantages. One of which are the four seasons that inevitably come around every year. Here in New Zealand they have a famous saying which is "There are four seasons in one day." Whenever I talk to any kiwi about the weather, I can count down the seconds ..3..2..1.."there are..." It's actually about two. Light rain, and Sun. I think that because it happens about 100 times a day, they just count it as four.

I never realize how much I loved the weather changing and the new breath of each season. I was expecting something to happen when they announced that it was officially Fall. Any day, expecting the leaves to change...nope. And then we hit winter. Just more rain. Now the summer is approaching, with just a little more sun, and I realize that after a year, it's all about the same. Although I shouldn't complain, Christmas just isn't the same in 74 degree weather. I never thought that I would say it, but I miss the snow...as least for Christmas.

That being said, my friends came over for the Santa parade. One of the hottest days ever. The crowds lined up in the streets and we watched the parade from our high ceiling window. Fun in the city, fun with friends an food, and fun with the poor sweating santa in his santa suit. (first picture by alyson law)

Samsung phone

2009-12-11T02:02:00.000-08:00

So my phone broke not to long ago. Split screen right down the center. I tried to hold off getting a new one as long as possible, but I kept having to guess half of all my texts. Like, "Katie, don't forget to meet me at @#()$%," or "I hope your not mad, but @#(*$)%$". I'm sure that you've all been there. Anyway, at that point, there was one option left..UPGRADE! So Mike got on his tech-research hat and scouted me a pretty 'sweet as' (another kiwi lingo) new phone. I don't know to much about it, only that it has a fun touch screen and lots of toy gadgets.

So check out this fun panoramic feature that I have been playing around with!

Waiheke weekend.

2009-12-10T00:48:00.000-08:00

For a much needed break, Mike and I escaped the noises of the city and went to Waiheke island for the weekend. The Hilborns have a house there that kiwis call a "bach". I love the word, because it comes from "bachelor pad", basically a second home get-a-way to live..the..single..life?! 40 minutes on the ferry and we are out of the confines of noises, cars and people, and into a fantastic, smaller island paradise. I'll let the photos speak for themselves, but I have to say that New Zealand is such a phenomenal, untapped country and I'm so grateful that I have this precious time to experience it with my wonderful husband.

mike; a version of

2009-12-05T23:31:00.000-08:00

It has been a while between posts from my side of planet Maahs. Today I take up those reigns to take out the blogospherial trash. School has been unrelenting until it relented last week after finals. Now I have nothing till classes reconvene on March 1st. Here is a extremely brief recap of the past few months.

Saw velasa-chickens everywhere and lured them in with my finger as bait. They freak me out.

Spent an inordinate amount of time at the University of Auckland Commons eating samosas and reading.

After all the reading I made these 4 cool posters and presented them in front of Housing New Zealand.

2009-12-03T03:37:00.001-08:00

birthdays

2009-11-02T00:01:00.001-08:00

Spring is in the air and so is the fever to be outdoors! Lots of fun events have been happening. First off, it's birthday season!

During this time of the year Mike and I both get to celebrate our birthdays together. We are only ten days apart. Usually we are so accustomed to fall and colder weather, but this year is was fun to have our birthdays in the heat of the sun. I had a 'magical' party in the park after a 10 k relay run, and dinner with friends. For mikes birthday, we went kayaking, biking and got together with friends. We had a blast and appreciate all of our friends here who supported us! Here's to turning 28 for the both of us!

red red lips

2009-10-29T02:18:00.000-07:00

I know that I haven't been posting. shame. I didn't realize that signing my name to a blog would entail a certain amount of responsibility associated with guilt when ignored. Anyway, my 4Gb SD card for my camera died , so I haven't been taking any photos. double shame. but...got a new SD card, been taking pictures, and they are on their way, because let's be honest, that's why people read blogs, right?!

So meanwhile, I suddenly got obsessed with this new lipstick I got. It's called CHILI from MAC. Not being a lipstick person, this is pretty bold for me. But now at 28, a girls got to get a new look
ya know?! What's the verdict?!

new haircut

2009-09-24T03:55:00.000-07:00

I was trying to get a photo of my new hair so that I could display it to the world, but for some reason I got a bit distracted...

well, mission accomplished...in a round about way.

been there ran dat

2009-09-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

To be honest, most of the time I dislike running. The times I don't are on the occassions it's paired with friends and good times. So another running event is once again pulling me into that realm of love/hate, though this time its like gambling cause there's a pot with a $5 buy in. I'd rather play poker, but it is amazing the power a few bucks can wield over perception and competitive nature. My odds might be better than I think since the race has recently undergone some changes from a 20k divided evenly between my significant other, to a wimpy 5k that is basically a sprint. Hopefully I'll be slightly more in shape and therefore pickup the second place cash prize. I did a flyer to attract a few more suckers to up the $$$. I know the fastest man in the world is in fact depicted, so I'm expecting PUMA to sue.

temporary replacement

2009-08-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

Living abroad keeps family at quite a distance and the everyday run-ins are postponed to yearly. So Katie and I are making due and using a substitute named Ruthie. A smart little 2 year old that speaks in perfect little sentences with a cute little voice. I think it's nice to have a proxy at least to give back a portion of that time we are without our nieces and nephews.

Anniversary

2009-08-16T19:12:00.000-07:00

3 years, I love her. I won't gush too much, but will simply say that my world revolves around our life together in the sweetest ways possible.

Way One:
Although summer heat reminds me of our wedding and a motorcycle exit from our reception, here in New Zealand we are most decidedly in the thick of a mild winter. Having a season change as you've already begun to forecast important events really is a chance to play with context. The end of a hot summer punctuated a Mike and Katie romance quite nicely. Whereas now a wintry dreary day reminds me of how we truly warm each other.

Way Two:
The other night, on the 5th, I took my darling to a restaurant called the Grove. It's a smaller place in the alcove adjacent to St. Patrick's Cathedral here in Auckland. We've been to a few fine dinning experiences and though we always have a blast the food somehow seems to disappoint. This time we were enamored with the food and renewed in our pursuits as foodies. There is actually a point where the amount of flavor overcomes the need to have almost any quantity. I never thought I'd experience that. Katie laughed.

Way Three:
I'm currently at home sick and nothing tells of a bright love story like a spouse saying "poor baby" at the right intervals with the right consistency. Big moments take the memory spotlight, but these little ones make me all the more grateful for my wife's love.

I framed a piece of Katie's artwork so you all can see a cartoon version of us.

a tag of an earlier simpler time

2009-08-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

REPEAT last 2 hours, dancin' in the LIVIN' room

2009-07-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

Mayer Hawthorne his voice is just amazing, though in the video he has like the worst body rhythm.

A Katie Vector

2009-07-09T04:19:00.000-07:00

Over 9 hours of straight photoshoping and Katie is now a vector. This is my first attempt at a vector. I've seen them done forever and I finally got bored enough to try it. By the end it was just a matter of will power...I was going to finish. This is my first vector and probably my last. If your not sure what a vector is feel free to google it or youtube it. Basically its a bunch of custom shapes layerd on top of each other that you hand draw using the photoshop pen tool. This vector has over 160 shapes. Enjoy.

2009-06-27T19:48:00.001-07:00

One Tree Hill was once named after a lonely pine tree that once stood on the summit. The tree was the burial site of one of Auckland's 'founding' fathers, Sir John Campbell, who played an important part in the city's early development, but unfortunately this long standing icon is no longer. The tree was attacked with a chain saw by a Maori activist. It was a statement not only against the British, but also because the tree was a Pine...not native to New Zealand.

This is my visit to One Tree Hill.

music maker

2009-06-23T01:45:00.000-07:00

Two new websites that I love.

Synth maker-thingy. Who knew I could compose such wonderful synths w/ so little effort?! It's 'heeps' of fun.

http://lab.andre-michelle.com/tonematrix

This website is the ultimate. Any and every old school NES game that ever existed. Ask who played...and conquered "The Legend of Zelda" all in one night... Don't believe me?!.....

oh so satisfying

Photoshop Tutorial

2009-06-16T06:59:00.000-07:00

I gave my first entry level photoshop tutorial to the Young Men for our activity this week. They were eating it up and actually getting the hang of it. I should never underestimate the young mind. They basically designed their own graphics from the tools I gave them. I'm helping one of them do a school project to super impose a transformer onto the Auckland city streets tomorrow. If only I had had exposure to this level of graphic design when I was young...I would probably be in a different feild. I'm jealous they know layers at 13. This is basically what we covered:

PHOTOSHOP TUTORIAL
a beginner’s guide

BEGINNER, MODERATE & ADVANCED PHOTOSHOP TUTORIALS:
http://www.tutvid.com/tutorials/photoshop/index.php

EASY EYE COLOR CHANGE:
http://www.tutvid.com/tutorials/photoshop/tutorials/changeEyeColor.php

RESOURCES:
Free Fonts: http://www.dafont.com/
Free Brushes: http://www.brusheezy.com/
How to make your own brush: http://www.bittbox.com/photoshop/how-to-make-a-photoshop-brush/

DEFINITIONS:
Layer: think of it as a drawing on a piece of plastic and then placing that on top of another image. You only see what you draw.
Selection: an area that responds to other tools only in a specific area.

HOT KEYS:
command D = deselect
command L = levels
command shift E = merge all layers
] = increase brush size
[ = decrease brush size
command T = resize
command C = copy
command V = paste
command Z = undo one step
alt+left mouse click = secondary use of tool
command A = select all

TOOLS (always left on screen):
W = quick selection tool
B = brush
T = text
Z = zoom
E = eraser
V = move tool

PANELS (always to the right of the screen):
Layers Panel = a list of all the current layers you have created. select a layer to interact with it.
History Panel: keeps a list of all the actions you have done. select a point in the history to undo your actions.

a little guilty feeling

2009-06-13T22:28:00.000-07:00

So I'm over here in the winter of Auckland, looking at bare trees and getting as cold as 50 degrees. I left SLC, Utah's bitter winter cold of February for the 90 degree summer of New Zealand. That was great but February is the end of their summer and fall and winter came quickly. So on some level it has felt that I never got the real summer this year which is to be expected by moving to the other side of the planet. The guilt of the title is from all the blogs I've been reading of people back home in SLC. I secretly check the weather for SLC every night and listen to the complaints of rainy weather for like the 20th day in a row and grin an evil grin. I know how great SLC summers are and am missing it hard so for now on the transition end of an Utah summer I'm a little less envious.

Fly my pretties

2009-06-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

'Fly my pretties' is a collective New Zealand band here. They are pretty awesome.

But more importantly, if you are friends of ours would like to come and visit us here in New Zealand, than now is the time to buy tickets! They are super low right now, even all the way up to November. I saw some on Air New Zealand for abut $600 round trip US dollar! Best time to come is any US winter month. You can escape away to our summer!

So act now, my pretties!

S, L to the C

2009-06-05T14:01:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake City, Utah has been my home for the past 27 years. Over those years I have had many different emotions about living there. As a teenager, I couldn't wait to leave, to 'start my living my life' somewhere else and leave the trail of the salted lake behind me. As the years went on, with every move I started to develop a more particular affinity for Utah. I remember my uncle Ron would always visit from Nevada, and say, 'Katie, don't ever take these mountains for granted, because you don't get mountains like these anywhere else.' That comment made me start to notice more of what I was missing out on. It started with the mountains, and then everything else fell into place. I have come a long way, and I can say now with pure honesty that I really love Salt Lake. Yes, the city has some flaws in itself (like the current governor perhaps?!) but for those that choose to take the good with the bad, Utah really is a wonderful State. For starters; the rocky mountains, the red rocks, four beautiful seasons, any outdoor sport within minutes from the home, the relative convenience of everything so close. Also the support that Salt Lake gives to the local businesses and markets, the SLC arts council, it's current expansive growth, and the center of the Church headquarters to name a few. And let's not forget one of the most fabulous gay pride parades in the nation.

All of this I love and miss about Utah, but what really got me started on my little love affair, was the music. More spesifically, the music that SLC is providing to it's people this year through the Twilight Concert series. This is a free event held outside at the local Galvan Center in the middle of the City. Each year, they pull through to great measures on thier line up. Last year, I rocked out to:

The Roots,
Hot Hot Heat,
Andrew Bird,
The Broken Social Scene and
Josh Ritter to name a few

And all for free!! This is the time of year when my soul misses SLC the most. I went on ther sight, and here is the line up that I will be missing from this years Twilight Concert Series:

Iron & Wine
Bon Iver
Jenny Lewis
The Black Keys
Human Highway
M. Ward
Sonic Youth
Q-tip
N.A.S.A
Land of Talk
Awesome Colors
B.O.B
Toots and the Maytals
And some others

If you haven't yet hear of any of these artists, I suggest you do so. Yes, I'm proud of Salt Lake for moving on, for providing only the best for it's people, but did you really have to do it with out me?!?! I'll just tell myself that it's O.K., New Zealand has plenty of Kiwi rap for me to groove to....as they say here, .. SWEET AS ?!?!

cooking lesson

2009-06-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

My wife surprised me with a professional cooking lesson down at the Auckland Cooking School. She had a coupon and probably bought it for me before I could buy it for her. Its the competition of who will take over cooking for the Maahs'. Katie dreads it. I love to cook so I guess I'll wear that hat.

The experience was quite good. The topic of the evening was "Using Seafood in Every Meal on a Budget." That title screams Mike and Katie. Since I've been here in Auckland it can smell the sea and haven't been able to quell the desire for fresh seafood.

After I watched the Chef cook a few dishes he let us in the back to get it on. With the fish...as in cook them. I learned the ways of a good risotto, well prepared seared salmon, and the nuances of mussel fritters. Mussels are incredibly easy to cook, 3 minutes steamed in white wine and finito.

Sometimes the little tricks were the most rewarding. Like when filleting a salmon you pull the skin and kinda pull the fish through the knife instead of the other way. There was also the oils trick, where you flick a little water on a skillet of oil to tell when its hot enough.

All in all it was well worth the money and I think every time we invite anyone over for dinner I'll be using that recipe. Once the guests start to repeat I'll have to learn a new one.

Tori Amos Presents

2009-05-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

Well kids, she's done it again. Officially debuting her 10th album,

Tori Amos presents:
Abnormally Addicted to Sin.

Although it may take a bit of effort to establish a connection with her albums, she always delivers in the end leading in a completely different direction that the last one followed. And every good tori follower knows that. (hello, Boys for Pele!) That is why she has such a devoted following. I developed a relationship with her from the beginning with Little Earthquakes, and it's been ongoing from there. Even though she has come in and out of my life through the years, I feel that whenever she shows up, I owe it to her to see what she's been up to.

AATS is all the tori expected. Her lyrics are quarky and portray some type of saddened story along the way. The songs themselves are beautiful explorations of luring quiet beginnings that end with beautifully indulgent conclusions, with some twists and turns along the way. The first track Give is currently my favorite exploring a darker side that preludes the album. AATS is an intense emotional journey for the prepared.

One of the qualms that I have with the album, is that is a full 17 tracks. That clocks in at a good 72 mins long. That is a lot to take in, especially from Tori. I feel that I need to take it in two parts, because by the time I get to the 9th track, I've forgotten everything that led up to that point. Overall, I'm happy to see her again and AATS will be an overdue reconnection.

www.toriamos.com

lunch and a walk

2009-05-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

I was feeling sick yesterday and got some soup, caffeine, and weird foreign aspirin. As I walked home even the statues were afraid of me. I think they all thought I had swine flu.

Catchy Az

2009-05-11T22:42:00.000-07:00

PNC: TONIGHT

Kiwi rapper making a name for himself. I like it. I think this is a side effect of me not getting my fix of SLC rap radio.

11 post studio

2009-05-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

Red Heads have all the fun

2009-05-03T03:08:00.000-07:00

Mike got a new haircut, as we all know now by his posted experience and having such equality in our relationship, I decided to get mine cut as well. The key to my hair, however, is that I am trying it out. I guess the term "growing out" means something completely different to the kiwi's because the stupid stylist chopped all my hair off. So now I'm back to square one. :( Grrr...

However, my sweet husband came to my aid when I asked him to preform the dye job at home. I always ask Mike to get the task done because he is so attentive and pays attention to detail. He takes his time and doesn't get it all over the place. .... I had brought professional dye from home, but in a sense, completely forgotten the ratios of brown dye to red dye along with how much developer to use. On went the gloves, and with our best guess we we mixed up a concoction. 30 mins later, Viola! I am still a proclaimed red-head!

...and lets post a picture

Things katie has done

2009-05-03T02:46:00.000-07:00

Bold the items you have done:

1. Started your own blog.
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band - yeah, it's true, "Elevator Neighbors" is in recording...Mike even surprised me with a keyboard yesterday!
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a Praying Mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped-give me a month, I live where the sport was created!
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Been to the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa at the Louvre
20. Slept on a train - from Beijing to a Buddist monastery, close to Tibet. It was worth the two day train ride
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon - almost....okay....half way there.... 13.1 miles was a LONG way!
28. Ridden in a gondola in Germany
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors - does a trip to the country count?
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing for real
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Tied a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a Bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Visited Italy

....Well, now that I got all my bragging rights out in the open, I guess I'll never have to post again! Excuse me while I try to fulfill the list...except for #77

Shave and a Hair Cut Two Bits

2009-05-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

Katie left for a dry run at work that's an hour away so I decided to get out and wonder around. I needed a haircut and allso wanted to take a real good hard look at some of the streets I thought I knew and others I didn't. The thing about cities, especially dense ones, is that their are little gems hidden in places sometimes less obvious than a first glance allows. Also decided to get my hair did, which is no small feat in a new city. I mean trusting a place to take my $25 and on the first try and make me not regret the whole thing is a huge deal. So on my investigative jaunt I noticed "Man Works." They're just a sign on the wall, but after a third glance they are a really manly man haircutting establishment. They are what an old Gentlemans Cigar & Brandy Club remind me of, except for the hair cutting. I came in and got a coke, a leather sofa, a shave, rugby playing on my personal TV, and o yeah a hair cut.

After that I hit up another basement treat, the international cafeteria. It reads just like a crappy food court from a US mall in a basement, but it's so so much more. Fried seafood vermicelli, a mess of it, for $4. The only thing though is that they put it in a styrofoam container when its still extremely hot. The food is tasty but if you're like me digging to the bottom you start to notice the styrofoam tearing away in very small amounts mixing with the food. I am completely worried that this is going to give me cancer. The good stuff always gives you cancer, like sacrin.

I was exhausted after returning and while I sat regrowing my hair, this happened: ie watching Ellen on mute, downloading movie torrents, and watching Cnet Tv off the interweb.

...and I found this for my iphone...
Thanks internet.

Also there is a show that just came on about 14 people surviving for 3 weeks in a UK landfill.

nature calling

2009-04-29T17:15:00.000-07:00

I thought that I would chime in since Mike was talking about his muscles, this would be a good time to talk about mine...or the lack thereof. It's been an interesting ride here, because all of the conveniences of home have suddenly been stripped away and for every convenience you want, you have to open your wallet.

Mike and I may have been trying out different gyms, but did he mention if you want to use any of the other amenities, like the tennis court, it costs an extra $40/hr. Oh yeah, and the gym itself is about $26 dollars a week. That is why, for the past three months, nature has been my playground. I call it my organic gym. And what I lack in weights, nature has provided. Oh yes, I have been using a regular kids playground for pull ups and what not. The kids may think of me as the weird sweaty old woman on the monkey bars, but at least I have the muscles to go with. I have been pretty diligent on running about 4-5 times a week. There have been some sabbaticals therein, but once back in the routine, it feels oh so nice, and I can literally hear my body thanking me everyday. So what am I getting at, Gyms, (at least in the summertime) can be a bit overrated. They may have iron weights, but it doesn't compare to the sweet sound of kids chiming "hey lady, move over" (in a cute little accent) I'm proud of myself for trying to keep up outside of my comfort zone and being creative with what I do have.

Oh yeah, and this is my daily running path...

.......Jealous?!

gymnasium

2009-04-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

It's been over 2 months since I've worked out beyond push ups. The gut is growing and my genetics are scary, so its like this ominous future fat Mike is stalking present Mike. I've always said, in jest, that I am totally cool with the fact that genetics are inescapeable and that future me will be a happy sphagettie slurping two-fisting meatball eating jolly ol' fool. i wonder if future big Mike will have additional character. I definately will be funnier and more endearing...if you could even fathom that mindblowing possibility. (SEGWAY)

Like everything else in New Zealand gyms are expensive. I do however like the fact that basically every gym gives you a trial 2 week membership and if I plan it just right there should be a good couple months that I could be gym slutting without gaps. The other day Katie and I went to Just Workout, gym title and our actual activity. It was nice to get back in there and whale on my pecks! (If you ever catch me talking like that for reals then punch me in the peck). We also reinacted the final fight scene in Rocky II with all the boxing equiptment. Ding ding.

hottie

2009-04-26T04:23:00.001-07:00

I needed to take a picture of Katie for a church thing. I woke her up from a nap and less than 30 seconds later I got this. Amazing.

Double Time Change?

2009-04-13T23:57:00.000-07:00

Somehow its true. The earth spins faster to New Zealanders and as our clocks go back the time difference to SLC is now 6 hours. When we got here it was only 4.

2009-04-08T23:14:00.000-07:00

Here is my city on a good day...
and....

But with beauty come other such oddities, such as...

an excellently named hotel
A moving "pie cart" that you can chase down throughout the city...

a chase worth it for burgers like these... mushrooms
grass cars

and this..although I'm sure this one isn't' completely New Zealands fault.