- December 2012 - Left England. Awesome farewell, followed by a meandering path back to NZ. First stop was Iceland, which was out of this world. Did a quick quad bike tour that just left me hungry for more. Next stop Seattle. Very interesting city, the people I met were all very friendly, even the security at the airport. Made me think America wasn't all bad, or it may have just reinforced my opinion that those on the West coast are alright. Then I caught the train to Vancouver which was neat, although there were a lot of homeless people about. Mostly walked about here, bit disappointing I could hit the bar scene as it looked a bit metal. Finally caught the long flight home.
Arrived back in NZ and caught up with some mates very quickly. Underwent minor culture shock reintegrating into a 'small society. Spent Christmas with the family and had a quiet New Years (for a change). - January 2013 - Tripped around the country for a bit, helped a mate build a house, applied for several jobs and finally got one at the end of the month, 2 days before school started back. Talk about hectic! Discovered a decent metal-ish bar in Wellington that has become my regular place to hit when I get down to the capital.
- February 2013 - Working time. Once again chaos as I simultaneously prepare for work while working, while also finding a place to live and moving in, while also sorting out all those other pesky things you need when starting a house. An expensive month this was. Also got away hunting with some friends which filled my freezer with venison. Attended an alternative fashion show which was a bit fun and got stupidly drunk at my big brothers stag do.
- March 2013 - Had a blast at big bros wedding, caught some neat music in the capital, hosted a girl from Argentina and some students from Vietnam, and got myself more involved in the schools extracurricular programme. Still have several things to sort out (like a flat-warming party, now 8 weeks overdue!), but they are on the to-do list and I have a long weekend coming up.
Coming up I have a school trip away, my first LARP back in the homeland, and school holidays which I haven't even considered what to do for yet. Despite finally being somewhat 'settled' I still feel somewhat restless. While the work and place I live are alright, I still feel like there is more to do and see, something missing, etc. Regardless, I will see out the year here at the very least and then re-assess things.
August 2014 Alt-fest is starting in the UK. I would very much like to go to this as it sounds awesome and it would also be an opportunity to see friends from the old country. I guess only time and finances will tell if I will be able to make it at this stage.
