Beach day baby!

So. Today was fun! We went to Long Bay Beach. In the morning it was chilly (bytheway, here they call coolers "chillybins"). But it warmed up! I took a nap on the beach and got a little sunburned. But it was still fun! We picked up a lot of pretty shells. I slipped on this muddy rock! In a white skirt. I'll try to put pictures up.

Yesterday we were in school all day. Needless to say, my attention span struggled. But anyway then in the afternoon, my host mom came in, she's a native Cook Islander, and taught us Maori songs and dances! It was fun. We put on lava lavas and she taught us! I have a video. Not sure I'll put it on yet..haha. We made flax weed flowers and headbands. I've had a request to make one..will do. My host mom has so many talents, I really admire her.

Last night, we went on a party bus to Auckland with the Young Single Adults in our ward. We loved them. They're a little obsessed with us, and frankly, we enjoy it. Their accents are incredible! But..heaps of them (that's how they talk here) have girlfriends from last year's BYU group. Haha. Not supposed to date? ...not anymore! Jokes.

Today we went to the beach. It was heaps of fun! We picked up seashells! I took a nap on the beach and got sunburned a little. But then I played in the waves. Then we got dropped us in Auckland (just 3 of us), without planning a way home (sound like me, Mom?). It was so fun though! We went shopping. My roommate bought a shirt! Then we walked far around the city trying to find a bus station, finally did. But we had to transer buses and we got on the wrong bus. Then the bus stop was on the opposite site of the railroad tracks that we needed...quite the adventure. After almost 3 hours of traveling time, we got home safely. I don't know if my friend that came with will ever be able to forgive me! I was quite proud of myself though, despite the setbacks. Plus it was a funny adventure!

I love it here. Such a beautiful place. I miss you all at home. Be safe and happy. I am always thinking of you!

<3 Ames