tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79879751176392226032024-03-13T20:08:23.465-07:00Rigging and Running...thoughts from a Creature TD.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger585125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-91644691895204207532018-03-22T10:23:00.001-07:002018-03-22T10:23:16.019-07:00Training Morning<p dir="ltr">Training for an upcoming marathon I'm up ar 4.30am a few times a week to fit in my mileage before the family wakes. This morning was a short one. 14km with 6km at half marathon race pace. It was my first real bad weather training run for a while.<br>
Anyways, early training run calls for good fuel. Buckwheat, flax and chia pancakes with honey, peanut butter, sultanas and seeds.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaq7-cEYGmX9uvsDuEh_uXnW_COUPOVf2lBxmoqOpJ_cxsMboIaEmJruJHGKbNhjvKLJy3RlMhau4zjUgvwpSmmtwaQbtLNOBO0HfiWQkq7gmgANkumG4IQ-KNR6q1i0cxhUOv56B6VJL/s1600/1521739200210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaq7-cEYGmX9uvsDuEh_uXnW_COUPOVf2lBxmoqOpJ_cxsMboIaEmJruJHGKbNhjvKLJy3RlMhau4zjUgvwpSmmtwaQbtLNOBO0HfiWQkq7gmgANkumG4IQ-KNR6q1i0cxhUOv56B6VJL/s640/1521739200210.jpg"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-17942977720141610682018-03-16T22:09:00.001-07:002018-04-25T18:31:07.895-07:00new shoes<div dir="ltr">
New shoes for the hawkes bay marathon. looking forward to this new lacing system.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4TlielqYT5L2IHQW8ywV5K7zSLjc0GzbOL08yhi9vB2mpFAvoEl-kQbfqo9AHB2xsfc7KIxsJE6aW0suUYZaKc38sCg91DSSphIZ2TtBANsJ3yMZRovVdLdFLicHJFlO80IuTigG6d7d/s1600/1521263304613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4TlielqYT5L2IHQW8ywV5K7zSLjc0GzbOL08yhi9vB2mpFAvoEl-kQbfqo9AHB2xsfc7KIxsJE6aW0suUYZaKc38sCg91DSSphIZ2TtBANsJ3yMZRovVdLdFLicHJFlO80IuTigG6d7d/s640/1521263304613.jpg" /> </a> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-78805521163913996112018-03-16T22:02:00.001-07:002018-03-16T22:02:32.806-07:00beer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVxULowTdNN75dMBqlPF78HHsPpb_dMlrJgd86skaWlgli8E-A79bpGdmMFe9Z6ZXzVgGn_BBLjc_O7sVY2QNhvMNSMrq4XMhltFHLqhPJAeWixb4f2mM2Ahr3Lolu3Q7KHQLkUsGZpDz/s1600/1521262906110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVxULowTdNN75dMBqlPF78HHsPpb_dMlrJgd86skaWlgli8E-A79bpGdmMFe9Z6ZXzVgGn_BBLjc_O7sVY2QNhvMNSMrq4XMhltFHLqhPJAeWixb4f2mM2Ahr3Lolu3Q7KHQLkUsGZpDz/s640/1521262906110.jpg"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-5935875604909162142017-11-29T00:50:00.003-08:002017-11-29T00:50:50.492-08:00War for the Planet of the ApesA while ago I finished up on War. What an amazing project to have been a part of. The final result was truly spectacular and to have been able to work within such an amazing team to achieve this it truly inspiring. I am very fortunate o be able to work on a project like this with such amazing people, and am always amazed at what the incredible artists that I work with can achieve.<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/JDcAlo8i2y8">Trailer</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3450958/">IMDB</a><br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/JDcAlo8i2y8"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3450958/"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-11351539895291056742017-11-29T00:44:00.001-08:002017-11-29T00:45:04.926-08:00CheetasThe other day I was lucky enough to meet the Cheetas at the Wellington Zoo. This was truly an amazing experience; getting to witness them so close, see how their muscles move, their tail twitches. Their fur feels very different to cat fur, and their tongues are crazy! Their purr reverberates so loudly. Such beautiful creatures, I am just so lucky to have had this experience!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/37848855121/in/dateposted-public/" title="Wellington Zoo"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4454/37848855121_c46d2d5178_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Wellington Zoo"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/23996208828/in/dateposted-public/" title="Wellington Zoo"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4468/23996208828_a4c367bd8a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Wellington Zoo"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-29019939977599886352017-11-29T00:41:00.001-08:002017-11-29T00:41:03.427-08:00VancouverSo I just realised that for some stupid reason I didn't post about our biggest vacation for a while, back to Vancouver. This vacation was Late May to Late June, about 5 weeks. We booked an air bNb in downtown Vancouver so we could relive the similar things we enjoyed when we were living in Vancouver a few years ago.<br />
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So this was a bad idea with a baby, we should have gone for a suburban lower density accommodation because we hit Vancouver during a "heat wave", so the apartment was in the high 20's all the time, and we couldn't cool the apartment as there was no A/C and the douche bags down stairs smoked 24/7 so when we opened the windows for cool air, we also got smoke which is not preferable with a baby. F$%k-wits!<br />
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Anyways, it was great catching up with all our friends again and revisiting favourite restaurants and sights. Morning runs and swimming in Kitsalano and Second Beach Pools was amazing!<br />
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We made it into the Oakanagen to see Heis, Dev and Becky. It as a great escape from downtown Vancouver.<br />
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Then unfortunately there was bad family news back home, so we had to change plans and return to Adelaide asap. Within a few days we had bailed on that shitty Vancouver apartment and were headed to cold Adelaide winter weather. Making the best of a shit situation, having parents around to look after Beau, the holiday actually got more relaxing upon returning home.<br />
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Anyways, I can't remember it all, but here's some pics.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/34785494194/in/dateposted-public/" title="Vancouver 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4104/34785494194_1c1814795a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Vancouver 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35240014500/in/dateposted-public/" title="Vancouver 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4290/35240014500_b988ee9cc3_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Vancouver 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35239853570/in/dateposted-public/" title="Vancouver 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4150/35239853570_703d5c882b_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Vancouver 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35397359682/in/dateposted-public/" title="Vancouver 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4211/35397359682_a5f7215f9d_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Vancouver 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35565184945/in/dateposted-public/" title="Vancouver 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4240/35565184945_4299459139_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Vancouver 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35458424672/in/dateposted-public/" title="Vancouver 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4282/35458424672_6b73f86caa_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Vancouver 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35587155046/in/dateposted-public/" title="Vancouver 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4240/35587155046_8ea4d86979_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Vancouver 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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And then Adelaide:<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35589046681/in/dateposted-public/" title="Adelaide 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4237/35589046681_30d4a6310f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Adelaide 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/35720016175/in/dateposted-public/" title="Adelaide 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4285/35720016175_96d3f7697e_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Adelaide 2017"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-43077059106538053072017-10-22T01:14:00.001-07:002017-10-22T01:14:03.785-07:00TuiFirst post for a while. I just took some photos of a Tui in our backyard. They are beautiful NZ birds and have the most amazing bird call.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/37591070270/in/dateposted-public/" title="Tui"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4506/37591070270_abb42a9366_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Tui"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-24590736533458532872016-11-02T12:03:00.000-07:002016-11-02T12:03:03.338-07:00CoffeeI have been pretty lazy of late with blog posting. Mainly due to lack of time with some large life changes. However one thing that is always grounding and a favorite ritual of mine is to start the day with a coffee. Regardless of the tool, there is still some process which helps ease into the day. Each method produces a different flavour from the same beans and grind, and each process takes a different amount of time. Here are two of my coffee making apparatus. The aeropress and the siphon. The aeropress is great for portability and a quick coffee. The siphon is great for a large quantity and for a bit of a show. This one is good when you have a bit of time to kill.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30738017295/in/dateposted-public/" title="Aeropress"><img src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5805/30738017295_2faeabd640_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Aeropress"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30437581860/in/dateposted-public/" title="Aeropress"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5663/30437581860_d531a1bb91_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Aeropress"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
                                                     <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30437585640/in/dateposted-public/" title="Aeropress"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5668/30437585640_ab798cc7b2_b.jpg" width="684" height="1024" alt="Aeropress"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30105599414/in/dateposted-public/" title="Aeropress"><img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5531/30105599414_a6c58d534a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Aeropress"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30105602294/in/dateposted-public/" title="Siphon"><img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5485/30105602294_05c4c59602_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Siphon"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
                                                     <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30437599300/in/dateposted-public/" title="Siphon"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5662/30437599300_b3d26cbb9a_b.jpg" width="684" height="1024" alt="Siphon"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
                                                     <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30105607004/in/dateposted-public/" title="Siphon"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5339/30105607004_42c53059a0_b.jpg" width="684" height="1024" alt="Siphon"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/30105609564/in/dateposted-public/" title="Siphon"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5345/30105609564_81bfe283a4_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Siphon"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-60330142098562093412016-08-13T18:58:00.000-07:002016-08-13T18:58:38.311-07:00NgaioI've been trying to get out on the weekends a bit more. Last weekend I took the camera around Ngaio to capture some of what I feel is "Ngaio".<br />
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Back street stairway.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/28907851296/in/dateposted-public/" title="ExplorngWellington (32 of 25)"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8626/28907851296_3043f7ab26_b.jpg" width="684" height="1024" alt="ExplorngWellington (32 of 25)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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Looming Mt Kaukau.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/28863416521/in/dateposted-public/" title="Ngaio"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8510/28863416521_1517accec0_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Ngaio"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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Main St.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/28323842233/in/dateposted-public/" title="Ngaio"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7535/28323842233_74a48e2748_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Ngaio"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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Church<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/28835108852/in/dateposted-public/" title="ExplorngWellington (29 of 25)"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8628/28835108852_4264fb5359_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="ExplorngWellington (29 of 25)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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Winter Snow on the Tararua Ranges.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/28863536241/in/dateposted-public/" title="ExplorngWellington (34 of 25)"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8064/28863536241_13c29dc5a0_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="ExplorngWellington (34 of 25)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-32298757219494695702016-07-28T02:43:00.001-07:002016-08-20T14:51:23.737-07:00Wellington Urban UltraTwo weeks ago, with minimal training, I completed my first ultra marathon. 63kms and over 3km of vertical. The race took me around Wellingtons beautiful trail network. It is amazing to have these trails so close to home.<br />
<div><a href="http://www.wuu2k.co.nz/">http://www.wuu2k.co.nz/</a><br />
</div><div>It was the first running of the event and it went off without a hitch. The whole race atmosphere was great and was so well organised. I hauled my sore ass over the finish line in 8hrs. My quads are still a bit sore, probably thanks to the lack of stretching and/or training.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Now thats over I'm looking forward to some lower mileage training runs and getting back into some enjoyable lunchtime runs. Something that will let me run daily without feeling broken all the time :-)</div><div><br />
</div><div>I think the next ultra will be a bit longer and a lot flatter :-)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdcsCkbjj2AhbgN9ux4445cJfWqNV6GAketRgbV5z_5zG6yAs6pgovX6aYA2OrKjQqOXbBgkW-hVSC-em2V0Tx0B_E8tkRo2uaE2eriBV64uRFuxL4u6rxhEL_jcd-zud-t0C7wnEv3JC/s1600/13724864_269560810075649_5102291239419228680_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="457" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdcsCkbjj2AhbgN9ux4445cJfWqNV6GAketRgbV5z_5zG6yAs6pgovX6aYA2OrKjQqOXbBgkW-hVSC-em2V0Tx0B_E8tkRo2uaE2eriBV64uRFuxL4u6rxhEL_jcd-zud-t0C7wnEv3JC/s640/13724864_269560810075649_5102291239419228680_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/29116034085/in/dateposted-public/" title="Medals"><img src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8416/29116034085_2ca671e53b_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Medals"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-52987609418092831472016-06-18T13:11:00.001-07:002016-07-28T02:36:26.078-07:00A year onWe are now a year down the track from deciding to move to NZ to pursue careers and a more fulfilling place to live. We couldn't be happier with the move.<div><br></div><div>We do keep ourselves, hence the lack of posts, but i figured it would be time to catch up on some stuff.</div><div><br></div><div>I have been in "training" for my first ultra marathon. As to be expected my legs don't really like the 5hr run training days, but that is probably also due to my lack of stretching and somewhat irregular training schedule. Pretty much not enough running+minimal stretching=long ass recovery times from long runs. But main thing is the running is enjoyable and not a chore. So this takes place early in july! 4 training weeks left!</div><div><br></div><div>Kate has been crazy busy studying for exams which are almost done. It is going to be great to have that behind us.</div><div><br></div><div>Work has been busy and fun. Finally I have a few films that are hitting the screens soon. The BFG and Independence Day Resurgence. Go see them-they were both super fun to work on!</div><div><br></div><div>We are finally building a good group of friends here. It always takes some time when you are older, but we now find ourselves with social activities every weekend which is rad! Some of which have involved home brewing!</div><div><br></div><div>My daily bike ride to work has started to fade off! It just got to be too much after a long day to battle a mad headwind home. I know it's a cop out, but if you stop enjoying it, whats the point! I'm now getting back into some good weekend rides, finding it is a good replacement for a run when my legs are shot.</div><div><br></div><div>Although we have been so busy with work, we have managed some adventure with a South Island Road trip, North Island up to Rotorua road trip, Adelaide for xmas and Auckland for a long weekend. We have also snuck in a weekend yoga retreat.</div><div><br></div><div>Coming up is our biggest challeng yet. The arrival of our first kid. Prep for this is keeping us super busy! It's crazy to think of, but we are really excited.</div><div><br></div><div>I also just noticed one thing I didn't mention yet, is in Dec last year I bought myself a fun car. A 1986 Mitsubishi Mirage :-) it is in beautiful condition and is a joy to drive :-)</div><div><br></div><div>I'm gonna wrap this up and start a new post. This initially got written about two months ago :-/</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-21918733046801893462016-05-01T02:07:00.004-07:002016-08-13T18:48:45.043-07:00NZ South Island Roadtrip 2016Between April 16th to 30th 2016, Kate and I embarked on an amazing road trip around the South Island of New Zealand. The journey is as follows - Photos to come.<br />
<div>The downward leg.<br />
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</div>The upward leg.(For some reason the Kaka Point to Invercargil bit is displaying wrong. We took the Caitlins Coast Scenic route, not inland :-)<br />
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<div><u>Sat 16th</u>. Clooney was booked in for a few weeks of pampering at a boutique doggy retreat, so after dropping him off at Waglands, we headed back to Wellington to have a coffee and snack before the ferry. I have to note that the second Clooney saw the other dogs he totally forgot about us, and proceeded to piss in each corner of the yard he had been added two (with two labs, one young and the other slightly older).</div><div><br />
</div><div>Once downtown Kate and I lazed in the sun by the Wellington lagoon at Frank Kits Park, and strolled the waterfront and markets. This was killing time for the ferry departure.</div><div><br />
</div><div>The ferry trip was uneventful. Not enough seats and bloody cold on the deck! We did however see an albatross following the ship for sometime, amazing birds. The views of Queen Charlotte Sound were amazing from the boat.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26652283242/in/dateposted-public/" title="Marlborough Sounds"><img alt="Marlborough Sounds" height="684" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1545/26652283242_116cbce0d6_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>We arrived in Picton at 5ish and checked into our accom (Broadway Motel)! My first motel for some time, and it was super nice with a really nice host. Dinner was a bit lackluster, but it was made up for with an amazing gourmet muesli bar for dessert from Le Cafe.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Sun 17th.</u> This was our really big driving day. We planned to head to the base of the South Island as fast as possible and then spend more time heading back up. So today we headed Picton to Fairle, setting us up for hitting Mt Cook on Monday.</div><div><br />
</div><div>We stopped at a few places between Blenheim and Kaikoura as the coastline was beautiful, but our first real stop was in Kaikoura for coffee and checking out some seals at the marine park at the point of Kaikoura . </div><div><br />
</div><div>From here we headed to Christchurch. We last saw Christchurch when we visited the city in 2009 and the high rise building we stayed in has now been leveled. This was eye opening. The city is desolate and clearly taking a long time to rebuild. We found a cool little cafe and got a burger for lunch. We deliberated our route, and figured for the extra half hour, driving through Methven would be far more scenic. This took us past the beautiful Rakia Gorge, Methven and then onto Fairlie via a few other quaint towns. We arrived in Fairle in the early evening checked into our motel and then had just enough light for a bit of a wander-it is a small town and we saw it all. Dinner followed at just about the only place in town; which thankfully made amazing Pizza.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26139558814/in/dateposted-public/" title="Nearish Kaikoura"><img alt="Nearish Kaikoura" height="684" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1552/26139558814_c019ec814a_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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</div><div><u>Mon 18th. </u>We woke early and headed to Lake Tekapo. We had heard Lake Tekapo was beautiful, however the last two times we had seen it, the lake was shrouded by fog. Today however there was no wind and clear skies. After a brief stop here we headed to Mt Cook and drove along Lake Hawea for 50kms until we hit the Akaroi Village. Wow, the view of Mt Cook and all the surrounding glaciers is amazing. You just can't stop looking at it.</div><div><br />
</div><div>We chose a day hike which ended up being a brutally steep trail (Mullers Trail), leaving us with sore calves for the coming days. The views from the upper parts of the trail were amazing though. We didn't quite make Mullers Hut, but it was well worth it non the less. Next time we tackle a 8hr return hike with 1500m elevation gain we'll know it'll be hard ;-) Following this we checked into our accom at the Hermitage and discovered that the promised room with a view did not dissappoint. Full balcony view over Mt Cook.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26720502026/in/dateposted-public/" title="Mullers Track, Mt Cook"><img alt="Mullers Track, Mt Cook" height="684" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1552/26720502026_879369b76b_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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</div><div>That evening we ate at Chamois bar, the less pretentious eatery in the village and then headed for an evening of stargazing. 4 telescopes were set up to view numerous constellations. I always find the globular clusters to be the most interesting, but it was super cool to see Saturn and her rings! By the time this tour ended I was near hypothermic! I had totally underestimated the temperature drop, and even with thermals and layers I was struggling. So toasty shower and bed were priorities! BTW the food was meh, but at least they did a salad. So it was veggie burger, salad and a big assed Monteithes chocolate stout.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Tues 19th. </u>I woke early and although I felt a bit crap, headed out for a run along the trail that we didn't do the day before. It was bloody cold and the timber boardwalks were icing over. This trail was called the Hooker Valley trail. Man it was beautiful. I ran to a lake that was filled with ice bergs. This trail followed glacier fed rivers and traversed high alpine tundra. Meanwhile the sun was hitting Mt Cook for the first time that day, painting the jagged pink in blood red hues. On the run back I met a fellow runner that had spent the evening camping. Sounded bloody freezing and glad we didn't choose to do so! 1.5hrs later I returned to the room for a quick brekky, shower and then we hit the road.</div><div><br />
</div><div>First stop was the Tasman Glacier lake! Another amazing glacial fed lake filled with ice bergs that had broken off the glacier. The rest of this day was devoted to getting to Dunedin. En route we went to a rad little cafe in Twizel for a coffee, scone and picked up a little beanie for bubs that was knitted by the owners mum :-) it filled me with joy to buy that little toque!</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26679256391/in/dateposted-public/" title="Mt Cook"><img alt="Mt Cook" height="684" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1520/26679256391_4e4ab71958_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>Next stop was a dam between Twizel and Omarau, it was bloody windy, and then Omaru where I visited the Omaru Whiskey Shop and picked up a bottle of 16yo NZ Whiskey. I also got a flight of whiskey, which was 4 drams. Needless to say I felt drunk and shit all afternoon thereafter. It was a long day, I think this part was the most boring bit of driving for the whole trip.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26789311295/in/dateposted-public/" title="Omaru"><img alt="Omaru" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7103/26789311295_2bc2d7f35f_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>We finally arrived in Dunedin and headed straight to Cadburys as Kate was so looking forward to the tour! Please if you visit Dunedin, don't waste your 5$ on this tour. The tour is shit, and the candy bag you get is full of all their shithouse candy that they probably couldn't sell anyways cos it's so shit! The creepy automated puppets that "dance" to some eerie music makes it feel more like a creepy horror side show, it's just that the punchline that makes it a horror never occurs, you're just left with an iccy feeling :-/</div><div><br />
</div><div>So that disappointment aside we headed to our accom! Thankfully this was far better that Cadburys! We set a clothes wash going and embarked on a wander of the city, which turned into an epic trek, leaving us drained and pooched, wondering what to do for dinner. In the end we were already sick of eating out so popped into the supermarket and created an awesome antipasto plate to share back at out accom. Due to our Suits addiction, a few episodes of season 5 were viewed before zonking out!</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Wed 20th.</u> Today we were heading from Dunedin to Kaka Point, the start of the Catlins Coast. As the drive is quite short we had plenty of time to look around Dunedin. The morning was spent wandering the university district and poking around Dunedins shopping district. We soon realised that Dunedin doesn't need a lot of time to see, and headed to the Otago Peninsula to see the Albatross Colony. The drive out here was amazing offering beautiful views of both Dunedin and the Pacific ocean. There were two different roads to take so we drove one on the way out and the other on the way in. One hugged the coast and the other the mountain tops, giving two unique perspectives of the same area.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26184112444/in/dateposted-public/" title="Otago Peninsula"><img alt="Otago Peninsula" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7600/26184112444_d8bf23d131_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>The albatross colony didn't offer many albatross, however we did get close to some young sea lions that were more than happy to show off!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Next we headed to St Claire, Dunedin's seaside suburb with a great surf beach and some cool cafe culture. We finally found a cafe that offered good vegetarian food and a cool setting! We were content.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26764700866/in/dateposted-public/" title="St Clair, Dunedin"><img alt="St Clair, Dunedin" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/26764700866_ef0038bf2c_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>From here a hour of driving would get us to our next location, with a quick stop by a supermarket to stock up on supplies. Kaka point and the Catlins in general doesn't have many supplies, so seeming we wouldn't get to a larger town for another day or so we stocked up.</div><div><br />
</div><div>By the time we got to Kaka Point it had started raining a didn't stop us going to see the Yellow Eyed Penguins returning from a day at sea. Every day at about 4pm they will return to their nests at Roaring Bay. This penguin is endemic to only NZ and is endangered, so seeing them was quite special. We then walked around Nugget Point headland. An impressive series of rock formations with distinct vertical grain sit in the ocean just out from the point, while the headland itseld juts a huge distance straight out of the ocean. We were also able to see seals and penguins from our high vantage point. This is truly a beautiful marine environment.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26185836063/in/dateposted-public/" title="Catlins Coast"><img alt="Catlins Coast" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7243/26185836063_fbcd6d2cdc_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>Home made tacos with black bean chilli worked a treat to warm us up!</div><div><u><br />
</u></div><div><u>Thurs 21st.</u> We woke to thick fog! Thankfully this was almost the only crap weather we had for the whole two weeks, which for this time of year in NZ is almost unheard of.</div><div><br />
</div><div>We hit the road early knowing we had a lot to get through, so by probably 9 we were at our first viewpoint (Cannibal Bay), and the fog had burnt off leaving us with a crystal clear wind free day. A 8km dirt road to a remote beach upon which we saw some huge sea lions. We were able to get pretty close (to the 10m that the park authorities allow) which was close enough! They have some big ass teeth. It was so nice being here so early, before crowds of tourists started arriving. From this point we followed the Catlins Coast (Southern Scenic Route) stopping in at numerous sights including a few waterfalls (Purakaunui and McLean Falls) We had a slight delay due to a rockfall and then a large diversion 8km up one side of a river and then the whole way back down due to a WIP bridge. Our final stop on this coast was Curio Bay for lunch. It was beautiful with amazing rugged coastline and beautiful blue water. The swell was quite large so seeing some of the large waves smash the headland was pretty impressive. We drove through the curio bay campground which i think is a must to go back to. All of the campsites were nestled in between a native flax forest. The flax stood about 2m high and was so thick you couldn't walk between it. It just made for a unique looking campground.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26789466785/in/dateposted-public/" title="Catlins Coast"><img alt="Catlins Coast" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7263/26789466785_8beace60f5_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26695810032/in/dateposted-public/" title="Catlins Coast"><img alt="Catlins Coast" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/26695810032_d234ac6c27_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26185951053/in/dateposted-public/" title="Catlins Coast"><img alt="Catlins Coast" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/26185951053_3db4b8f53e_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>Following this we decided seeming we were so close we'd check out Invercargill. We hadn't heard great things and wanted to make our own judgement. We pretty much drove straight through town, dashed into kathmandu, saw the big water tower, got some gas and headed on to Te Anu. The town looked pretty dull.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Driving to Te Anu was just a few hours of driving, not much stopping so not much to comment on. We got in by 4ish and checked into our motel, once again it was a really nice little motel. Finally 2 nights somewhere. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I got out for a run around lake Te Anu at sunset and then we headed to a pizza joint for dinner. It was OK; packet pasta though. Booo.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Fri 22nd.</u> Milford Sound. Today we rose early to avoid the tea,s of tourists that would flock to Milford Sound. We made a great call as the road was clear the whole way in. It is a pretty epic drive from Te Anu, at almost 2 hrs. We decided to drive the whole way to the end and then cruise slowly back to see the sights.</div><div><br />
</div><div>When we got to Milford we discovered a 49$ cruise that included breakfast, sweet as. We hadn't planned on a cruise as we expected it to be way too expensive. The cruise was beautiful! Slightly cloudy and moody, but not so foggy that you couldn't see the peaks. </div><div>These had also been some rain so lots of waterfalls were flowing.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26722560091/in/dateposted-public/" title="Milford Sound"><img alt="Milford Sound" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7518/26722560091_e48849071a_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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</div><div>From here we drove back along Milford Road stopping at recommended sights. The Chasm was a viewing platform over a narrowly chiseled chasm that water had cut over years. It was quite beautiful and the water crystal clear.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26780798971/in/dateposted-public/" title="Milford Road"><img alt="Milford Road" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7399/26780798971_c654d2ebdd_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>Next we went for a walk to Lake Marian. Unfortunately the weather went to crap. It totally fogged in with intermittent showers and the track got pretty technical so we decided at a hour and a bit in to turn around when a fellow hiker on his return leg told us you couldn't see a thing at the top. Regardless the views of the amazing waterfalls at the base of the hike were amazing! I even taught kate how to do some long exposure photography.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26575423460/in/dateposted-public/" title="Milford Road"><img alt="Milford Road" height="684" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7502/26575423460_7538e313df_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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</div><div>By the time we got back to the car we were pretty pooched, so we decided to jam home, stopping only at mirror lakes (which were beautiful).</div><div><br />
</div><div>We got in by late afternoon, had some chill time and then went out to the shittest restaurant for dinner! Oh well, that's what you get in small resort towns right. By now we were starting to get pretty over expensive crap food so were looking forward to the next few days with our own kitchen.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Sat 23rd. </u>What a rad day today was. We didn't have too far to drive so didn't rush out the door. First stop was coffee at a little cafe in town. The coffee took for ever haha, but was well worth it :-) then onto Queenstown! This drive really pretty. Lots of autumn colors and beautiful farmland. The last part of the drive is spend hugging lake Wakatipu. It is quite beautiful with huge mountains jutting right out of the lake sides.</div><div><br />
</div><div>We stopped into Queenstown for a quick wander to see how it had changed since we were last there. It is a beautiful little town, but nothing really for us that we needed to do so we headed onto Glenorchy. Glenorchy sits about 40km north west of Queenstown along a beautiful road that hugs Lake Wakatipu as well. Some friends who worked for tourism NZ had recommended it just for the drive. It was a classic NZ road, taking way longer than expected, but once arriving it was well worth it. Rugged mountains surrounded the town and a glacial river fed the lake, giving it the most amazing blue color. I didn't realise then but the mountains that were directly behind Glenorchy were called the Forbes Range and there is a multi day tramp through them. Might have to do that one day.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26243814593/in/dateposted-public/" title="Glenorchy"><img alt="Glenorchy" height="684" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7770/26243814593_c9c4d6514e_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>Next stop was Arrowtown. We fell in love with this town last time we visited really wanted to visit again. It turns out the autumn festival was on. The town was buzzing. There were crafty stalls to poke around and all sorts of food on offer. The fall colors were unbelievable. I think the nicest fall colors you could see without being somewhere like Colorado for fall. But the coolest thing was the parade. A whole lot of classic cars were lined up to drive through town. There were some beautiful old vehicles with the holy grail being a fully functional steam engine. It was an amazing sight to see it working, and it had been beautifully restored.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26754504872/in/dateposted-public/" title="Arrowtown"><img alt="Arrowtown" height="684" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7409/26754504872_fea8aedf6f_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>The parade signed the end of the festival, so we headed onto Wanaka. I have always loved Wanaka-Queenstown road. It is beautiful and this time didn't disappoint with beautiful autumn colors.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Once in Wanaka we checked in, then had a bit of time to poke around town before heading to the local cinema (Cinema Paradiso) that had been recommended to us. What is rad about this cinema is that they bake their own amazing cookies and cook delicious food that you can order for intermission, yes they do intermissions, or you can take in to the cinema with you. So we saw Jungle Book, and also had dinner out at the same time :-) I have to say Jungle Book was amazing. It was just a really nice fun film and the VFX work from my fellow colleagues at Weta looked amazing!</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26575521700/in/dateposted-public/" title="Wanaka"><img alt="Wanaka" height="684" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7210/26575521700_fb36cb05ab_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><u>Sun 24th.</u> I arose early for a large run. I ran around lake wanaka, total of 2 hrs. It's amazing how far you can go by foot in that time. By the time I returned Kate was ready to head out for brunch at the local health food store, Soul Food Cafe. I got buckwheat pancakes with coconut yogurt and the most amazing apple sauce, while kate got an amazing raw granola, and then we shared :-)</div><div><br />
</div><div>We stocked up on groceries for the following few days and then headed to the hotel to rent some bikes. Wanaka has an amazing trail system so we chose a nice green run that followed the Clutha River, NZ's highest volume river. Kate killed it, never having really ridden a mtb before, she smashed the green single track, and by the return journey had no hiccups at all! In the end we rode for a good two hours so were pretty sore and tired by the time we returned.</div><div><br />
</div><div>We cooked amazing bean chilli baked enchiladas, with a good amount of leftovers for lunch :-) looking at the length of the post from this day it seems that we didn't do too much, but the soreness in the muscles said otherwise :-) it was nice to do no driving thats for sure!</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Mon 25th.</u> Today we drove from Wanaka to Fox Glacier. We had organized some amazing accom in Fox. A couple had bought the old church and totally redone the interior to be luxury accom. They had done it beautifully and it provided an amazing nights accom-more later. So we started earlyish from Wanaka and drove towards Haast pass. On route we saw the infamous blue pools, fantail and thunder falls and then the amazing scenery that is along this piece of road. The amazing thing about this drive is that you leave the otago district which is dry and grassy, almost like it is in a rain shadow. You then enter the most amazing rain forest along Haast pass and then next thing you are on the coast where rugged mountains drop straight into the ocean. This change in scenery happens over a hour and a half of driving. </div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26243932083/in/dateposted-public/" title="Blue Pools"><img alt="Blue Pools" height="1024" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7488/26243932083_9ff2c27fe1_b.jpg" width="684" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26848457425/in/dateposted-public/" title="Haast Pass"><img alt="Haast Pass" height="684" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7429/26848457425_4a4e475e38_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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</div><div>Once hitting the coast we drove North...not that there is a choice. We didn't stop for a while while on this part of the road, it is quite spectacular to view as driving and there aren't a lot of safe areas to pull off the road. So first stop was Bruce Bay, where a local pulled up to us after having been out of the car for a few minutes and let us know that there was free lunch at a locals bar for everyone who turned up due to anzac day celebrations. Hells yeah, we hit it! We never found that bar! Oh well. Next stop was Fox Glacier. This was eye opening. We last saw the glacier in 2009 and had heard it had retreated a fair bit. We didn't expect this much though. It was significantly smaller and less impressive which was really sad to see.</div><div><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26754638872/in/dateposted-public/" title="Fox Glacier"><img alt="Fox Glacier" height="684" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7328/26754638872_743be92188_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>From here we headed to Lake Matherson for a small walk and got some beautiful views of Mt Cook amidst the clouds. This small hike led us to check in time so we headed to our accom.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26754645212/in/dateposted-public/" title="Fox Glacier"><img alt="Fox Glacier" height="684" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7384/26754645212_4845a4c8b3_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>As I said earlier it was luxury accom in an old church. The owners had spared no expense kitting the place out with beautiful cook ware and finishings. The space had beautiful lighting and it just made for a really enjoyable evening. Being sick of shitty food we cooked up another meal, making a delicious dragon bowl of roasted veg, spiced chickpeas and quinoa. We used a nice Moroccan style dip and yogurt as sauce. Delish :-) once again leaving epic leftovers for lunch :-)</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26244005183/in/dateposted-public/" title="Fox Glacier"><img alt="Fox Glacier" height="684" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7361/26244005183_3aa2232626_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26244032703/in/dateposted-public/" title="Fox Glacier"><img alt="Fox Glacier" height="684" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7214/26244032703_47a48eb848_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><u>Tues 26th.</u> Continuing up the west coast we were now reversing our steps from our roadtrip in 2009 so the first few hours of driving we got done pretty quickly, just stopping at a few key locations and stops for lunch and driver swaps. The first being Franz Joseph glacier which we had walked on in 2009. We didn't do a big hike this time but just stopped for a shots 20min hike and a look see. From where we got to we couldn't actually see the termination point of the glacier, but that aside, this glacier is far nicer than Fox as there are some nice hikes and vantage points even if you don't go to the glacier.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26244044003/in/dateposted-public/" title="Franz Joseph Glacier"><img alt="Franz Joseph Glacier" height="684" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7138/26244044003_eff64b44a4_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>One spot we did diverge on was Okarito to see the wetlands there. It was a beautiful drive in and added something new to this stretch of the drive.</div><div><br />
</div><div>We had lunch and switched drivers at Lake Mahinapau where we saw a Kiwi, at least we thought we did. Later we were advised that it was a Kaka. Suckers!</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26575650690/in/dateposted-public/" title="West Coast"><img alt="West Coast" height="684" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7162/26575650690_e0a13e2a56_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>We jammed past Greymouth laughing our asses off at a angry assed hitch hiker with tats all over his face. I hope no one was dumb enough to give that dude a lift! Anyways next stop was tourist town at Punakaki Rocks. Beautiful but teeming with annoying tourists. The light was amazing as dark rain clouds were passing through and creating amazing lighting in contrast with the beautiful bright evening light, making for some nice photography. There was also some decent swell and we saw a good couple of bursts from the blowhole. The other amazing thing about these rocks, if you don't already know, is that they are stacked in layers, like pancakes. I hear it is a geological uncertainty as to how it has occurred.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Ok, tourists and pancake rocks over, we were ready for chill time so we jammed to our next evenings stop. We were booked into a nice little lodge/home stay called birst ferry lodge. Kate stumbled accross this little gem. Pretty much the hosts have designed their house around the premis of having a b & b setup. The room was beautiful, the view amazing and they had a hot tub on the deck overlooking the valley. There was a well appointed living area where we could read a book or magazine in front of the open fire, while chatting with the hosts as they cooked an amazing dinner.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26754703702/in/dateposted-public/" title="Punakaki Rocks"><img alt="Punakaki Rocks" height="1024" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7169/26754703702_73d74d760f_b.jpg" width="684" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26781135591/in/dateposted-public/" title="Birds Ferry Lodge"><img alt="Birds Ferry Lodge" height="684" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7680/26781135591_4927f90ab9_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>We had let them know in advance that I was vego and kate pregnant, so they cooked up a meal specifically for us which they enjoyed as it presented them with something different to do. It was a feast finished with chocolate panna cotta! By the time this feast was over we were well and truly ready to zonk.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Wed 27th.</u> Today started with an epic breakfast thanks to our hosts at birds ferry lodge. Fresh baked croissants, museli and yoghurt, home grown scrambled eggs and loads of coffee!</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26768924542/in/dateposted-public/" title="Birds Ferry Lodge"><img alt="Birds Ferry Lodge" height="684" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7299/26768924542_3a11604a01_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>The drive today took us from birds ferry to Marahau, Able Tasman National Park via the Buller gorge. This drive was absolutely stunning. The Buller river was beautiful and we stopped at a recommended point for a quick walk to a little cemetery dating to the 1800s. The drive wasn't too long and after the gorge saw us driving through beautiful farmland and amongst some of NZs hop plantations.</div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26589688440/in/dateposted-public/" title="Buller Gorge"><img alt="Buller Gorge" height="684" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7437/26589688440_250f31c599_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>Marahau was beautiful. A little bit of paradise. Warm, no wind and beautiful blue waters. We chilled for the afternoon and went to a local burger bar, the Fat Tui for an epic burger each for dinner. Once again today was pretty chilled with mostly driving and organising tomorrows activities and stocking up on groceries. After much deliberation we decided on a aqua taxi to the top of the National Park to see the whole coast line, and then to get dropped of at Onehatuti beach, so we could walk to Barks Bay and get picked up. However at this point I would run and Kate boat back. More to come.</div><div><br />
</div><div><u>Thurs 28th.</u> We woke to beautiful blue skies and no wind again. The aqua taxi departed at 9am and took us on a scenic journey up the coast. It was nice as we saw a lot of coastline that we just could not have covered in the time we had otherwise. By 11:30 we had been dropped at our beach and started hiking. Due to tide we had been dropped a bit closer to our end point and thus, reached our destination waaaay earlier than expected. So much so that by the time we had lunch Kate had 3 hours to spare until the taxi she booked arrived. Luckily the earlier one at 12:45 had room and whisked her off, leaving me on a beach 23kms away from my hotel with no way out other than my feet. </div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26862464405/in/dateposted-public/" title="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk"><img alt="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk" height="684" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/8/7361/26862464405_b984cef8eb_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26795094371/in/dateposted-public/" title="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk"><img alt="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk" height="684" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7407/26795094371_ee5f64f7e0_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26257177804/in/dateposted-public/" title="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk"><img alt="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk" height="684" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7585/26257177804_b1a84b846d_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26257244264/in/dateposted-public/" title="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk"><img alt="Marahau, Able Tasman Nat Pk" height="684" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7799/26257244264_327acbaa25_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div>So I started running. It was a beautiful run winding in and out of the little valleys, crossing beautifully clear rivers and seeing the most amazing blue ocean and golden sand. <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">It was hot, mid 20's, and due to the shape of the land all of the climbing was in full sun and all the descents in shade. My trail shoes were a bit damp and I had been wearing them all day. This had caused my feet to soften up and blisters on my left foot ensued. Thankfully this didn't get too bad until the end and just when I was starting to dig deep I met <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Kate</span> a few kms out of Marahaw and called it quits for a nice dip in the ocean and painful stroll back to the hotel. The run taught me a lot and was well needed prep for my up coming ultra. I needed some good foot pain and to start building some <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">calluses</span>. This run did just that.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">That evening we cooked up some simple pasta dishes and just chilled out. It was a big day and i especially was feeling pretty sore.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><u>Fri 29th.</u> We had done some research into where to stay for our last night and had settled on a little town called Anakiwa. Anakiwa is in the Marlborough Sounds and is a quaint little village. We found a beautiful little guest house called Anakiwa 401. So this morning we drove from Marahau to Nelson, checked out nelson for a bit and then headed to Anakiwa via Havelock for lunch. Havelock was a nice little town, priding itself on the green lipped <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">mussel</span> industry. We stocked up on some groceries and headed on our way.</span></div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26257253544/in/dateposted-public/" title="Nelson"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7057/26257253544_43d1231c34_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Nelson"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26795165251/in/dateposted-public/" title="Anakiwa"><img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7775/26795165251_0c430cd99a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Anakiwa"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26795176271/in/dateposted-public/" title="Anakiwa"><img src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7639/26795176271_f08a293a7e_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Anakiwa"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Our accom at Anakiwa provided free kayak hire which was nice as kate really wanted to kayak. Within minutes of being out on the sound we were right next to a seal that was feeding on a large school of fish. It was amazing watching the seal up close <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">frolicking</span> around. We spent a hour or so paddling and then returned to our accom.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">The afternoon was chilled, hanging on the balcony listening to the birds until the sun set. By 6:30 it was pitch black with no moon, so we went for a recommended walk to see some local glow worms. I have never seen these before so was unsure as to what to expect. They were really cool, with our headlamps turned off and our eyes adjusted to the dark, we could see the, everywhere; little LED like pin pricks all over this specific part of forest. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Returning from this walk we visited a clearing to watch the night sky. With no moon the milky way was out in force. I don't think i have seen such a night sky, except maybe <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Boston</span> bar in <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">BC</span>, <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Canada</span>.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">A nice evening cooking a nice meal followed. <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Omelette</span> with all our odd bits and pieces :-) <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">D</span>elish!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><u>Sat 30th.</u> Our final day. I am writing this now on the ferry crossing from the south island to the north island. Almost home. Today was a great way to wrap up the trip. There was very little driving but we filled the day with fun activities. First was a nice walk along the queen <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Charlotte</span> track and then a drive to Blenheim and the Marlborough wine region. The Marlborough region is super close to Picton so we figured while there we may as well head to Cloudy Bay vineyard and taste some wine; at least I did, trying to find a bottle for <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Kate</span> to celebrate post pregnancy. The vineyard was really nice and the wines were good. But nothing special enough for celebration of bubs. I will continue looking. </span></div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26589857700/in/album-72157667614447131/" title="Anakiwa"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7521/26589857700_486db3d61e_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Anakiwa"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
<div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26862729905/in/album-72157667614447131/" title="Marlborough Wine Region"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7192/26862729905_305308f706_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Marlborough Wine Region"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">We drove around the region a bit more and then ended up in Picton for our last hike of the trip along a trail from </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Picton </span>that headed out along the sound that the town sits on. As per usual, this walk took way longer than expected. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Following this a trip to the supermarket to pick up food for the ferry and then to the <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">line</span> up for the ferry, ensuring an early position in line up to get some good seats on board. From the trip over we realised there weren't enough seats with tables so we wanted to secure something quick smart.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I can now see the lights of Wellington, and a stiff breeze has picked up outside. The crossing was pretty good bar a bit of swell for the mid section of the journey that had some stomachs feeling a bit woozy.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I'll sign off here. No doubt we'll be called to the cars soon. Sorry for the super long post, but I guess we really fit a lot into two weeks. A fitting vacation for our last holiday with only kate and me. We find it hard to relax and always cram as much in as we can, so of all holidays i guess this was the most important to cram to the brim with fun stuff :-)</span></div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/26769270402/in/album-72157667614447131/" title="Picton"><img src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7779/26769270402_b35ffba674_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Picton"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-64803700193713449202016-03-04T02:11:00.001-08:002016-03-04T02:14:15.189-08:00Time flies when you're busyIt has been a long time since I last wrote. This is directly due to how busy I have been! With little free time to hang with my wife and dog, or to go for a run or ride, blogging has taken a back seat. It therefore seems ironic that at 11pm on a friday night, amidst one of my busiest work weeks, i have decided to write a blog post.<div><br></div><div>I last posted with a brief summary of 2015, two months have passed since then in what has seemed a blink of an eye! </div><div><br></div><div>Life in Welly is good. We are starting to make some good friends and are filling what little time we have on weekends with lots of fun stuff! Ineven still manage to go for a run every now and then.</div><div><br></div><div>Kate and I bot partook in the Cigna around-the-bays race a few weekends ago. Kate ran the 10km and I ran the 21km. With little training we both did well. Kate in 51 mins and myself in 1:27. I also found the time for the Wellington Capital Classic Ocean swim a few weeks ago. It was an amazing opportunity to swim 3.3 km in Wellington harbour.</div><div><br></div><div>My folks visited a few weeks ago. It was really nice to show them around our new home. I'm so glad that our travelling has inspired them to visit new places.</div><div><br></div><div>Otherwise this year so far has been knuckling down! There is not a lot of news but I'll try to get some pics up here soon :-)</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbXUFj7lgE0AiU8YqxREUnWz0HcIPW-nIj7f5J-L0Hpki-XQYdx3sqEZVY1jhnKOGT1CqMsqcr6kUvh6aCmgtb7Dk9qXLP7MXaoQmfa8PfmXJ9JVise7qflsxKB0791d4LXZ40yf50g1h/s640/blogger-image--652431876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbXUFj7lgE0AiU8YqxREUnWz0HcIPW-nIj7f5J-L0Hpki-XQYdx3sqEZVY1jhnKOGT1CqMsqcr6kUvh6aCmgtb7Dk9qXLP7MXaoQmfa8PfmXJ9JVise7qflsxKB0791d4LXZ40yf50g1h/s640/blogger-image--652431876.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yBDEZLKBMy2usG8kTrRkufwOj5eYhHFQFjiamaaGARXcxKQmj29YKrCRssVfddf8-WU4uIROtfIfzED4Ub0eSdRp4WJQlRcVwJ3GsHK7Tgi_jP-oy4iewsQSa_tj-XTjSczZwxGVOJ0W/s640/blogger-image--1292762729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yBDEZLKBMy2usG8kTrRkufwOj5eYhHFQFjiamaaGARXcxKQmj29YKrCRssVfddf8-WU4uIROtfIfzED4Ub0eSdRp4WJQlRcVwJ3GsHK7Tgi_jP-oy4iewsQSa_tj-XTjSczZwxGVOJ0W/s640/blogger-image--1292762729.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IEThUv8b9a7zTlsr_eLbd7IFF-lpYLasimR7oDh2k5VKgzNgoiIOia61oAt5qbaJmZgQQWKRHBmEfI_NZOJQlSKIuJyv87nfY2BtfjZohFIc7yA-pcJ-jPmXxQxgy3vj8kpKlLWtWUOj/s640/blogger-image-567345937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IEThUv8b9a7zTlsr_eLbd7IFF-lpYLasimR7oDh2k5VKgzNgoiIOia61oAt5qbaJmZgQQWKRHBmEfI_NZOJQlSKIuJyv87nfY2BtfjZohFIc7yA-pcJ-jPmXxQxgy3vj8kpKlLWtWUOj/s640/blogger-image-567345937.jpg"></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-87844852898176919232015-12-26T03:33:00.001-08:002015-12-26T03:33:32.600-08:002015Well, there goes another year in the blink of an eye! The beginning of the year seems so long ago, we have fit so much in and our lives in December 2015 are just worlds apart from where we were in January of 2015.<div><br></div><div>We have ended up in a much better for our careers and life experience which has led to being in a much better state of mind.</div><div><br></div><div>The year started / last year ended with the adoption of our beloved dog Clooney. Over the year he has become so engrained within our family. He is very dear to us and I can't imagine not having him around. He is a beautiful spirit to have in the house with us, and just brings constant joy!</div><div><br></div><div>January, February and March were all Iron Man related! I need not write more about this. That led us to a holiday in Melbourne for Iron Man Melbourne in March. This has ended up being a very special race as only a few months ago, IM Melbourne was cancelled and will never occur again! This is. Ashame as it was an amazing race in a perfect location. Two weeks later I raced the Silver Sands multisport festival! What an amazing weekend. Sat saw a 10km run followed by a 2km ocean swim! One of the most amazing swims ever! Sunday was an Olympic distance tri. If I can remember correctly the 10km was about 40mins, the 2km swim was about 37mins and the Tri was about 2hr18.</div><div><br></div><div>Following Iron Man life settled into mundane 9-5 with a lot of training.</div><div><br></div><div>I set a PB half marathon at the Adelaide Greenbelt half marathon-1hr24.</div><div><br></div><div>A solid injury stopped me in my paces in May I think. This lasted a good 14 weeks before I could run again. So I swam a lot, only pull bouy though as I couldn't kick. Adelaide set into a miserable cold winter so I swam at Marion indoor pool a lot.</div><div><br></div><div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Kate raced some great trail races including the first Belaire Challenge, run by the Adelaide Running Company. She also raced the 25km Mt Crawford trail race and smashed it. I was injured so I volunteered!</span></div></div><div><br></div><div>This all led to June, at which point we confronted a momentous decision to make. The opportunity to move to NZ presented itself and we had about a week to make the decision! We wrote out the pros and cons of making the move on paper! The pros to move to NZ far outweighted the cons! Needless to say this led to some sleepless nights wondering if we made the right decision!</div><div><br></div><div>At this point we had a month to move our lives OS! We packed our lives into a shipping container and became landlords-something that we never thought would happen!</div><div><br></div><div>On July 22nd we landed in Wellington. It was windy and cold! But we were loving it. That night we ate at the Laundry on Cuba st! Already feeling a lot happier.</div><div><br></div><div>A week later we had found a house with a huge yard for clooney, and over the following month we set up our lives in Wellington. We bought a car early in August. On Aug the 8th we moved into our house in Ngaio. It was a bloody expensive process, but it is the best thing we have ever done! Welly really feels like home and a really nice place to 'settle down'.</div><div><br></div><div>I started working at Weta early in August! The immense satisfaction I get from working there is amazing! I realised how much I need inspiring work to maintain work satisfaction. I found I was so driven to learn and give my best to try and produce the most amazing work I could! I have now been there for nearly 5 months and am absolutely loving it! I can't believe how amazing the projects are that I am getting to work on!</div><div><br></div><div>In september we travelled back to Adelaide for my sisters wedding which was such an amazing opportunity to see all the family and was a very proud moment as a brother.</div><div><br></div><div>The next months were very busy at work and flew by! Kate excelled at her job and iss thoroughly loving it. We purchased a lot of camping gear and went for an amazing camping weekend at Kaitoke campound! It is dog friendly and Clooney was great to camp with.</div><div><br></div><div>By mid september I was running again, and happened to bump into another trail runner who has become a good friend! We often go out for two to three hours running on the trails in Ngaio and surrounds each Saturday! I also managed to get the odd run to work in, although 16kms before work is a bit taxing!</div><div><br></div><div>Funnily the last time I swam was in Marion pool in mid July! I havent swam since then.</div><div><br></div><div>In December I decided we beeded a second car! I found an '86 Mitsubishi Mirage with only 66000kms! She is in mint condition and is such a fun car to have as our 'a to b' car.</div><div><br></div><div>Finally we were invited to our good friends place for xmas day! Tim and Tahlia were nice enough to have us over to share xmas lunch. It made it really feel like xmas.</div><div><br></div><div>I am excited about the coming year! I love work and we both love living in Welly! We have proven that we live a bit of a spontaneous life so Who knows what the coming year may hold. I do know for sure that it is going to be a busy one!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-69015230904349843972015-11-01T01:22:00.001-08:002015-11-01T01:22:38.386-08:00Catching up on lost timeI'm flying from Auckland to Wellington. As you may have read in a previous post, we just had a great weekend in Auckland. I started writing some posts in the airport, and then figured that I have a hour of flying to catch up on missed blogging over the last three months.<div><br></div><div>So we've moved to Wellington a few months ago and then all of a sudden the posting stopped - mostly haha. We just got super busy. Moving countries is time consuming. Starting a new job is also time consuming. Finally after having been here for three and a half months we are starting to have enjoyable weekends where our spare time is not full of chores!</div><div><br></div><div>Ok! This move is the best thing we have ever done, after moving to Canada. Wellington is such a beautiful city to live in. The views are always inspiring, the suburbs interesting. It feels like we are always in the great outdoors.</div><div><br></div><div>Career wise we both made amazing moves! Kate is loving her work. She is learning a boatload and is so inspired and driven to learn and excell! It is great to see her so inspired! I don't think I've seen her this determined at her career before! It's exciting!</div><div><br></div><div>For me, woah! It couldn't be better. What an amazing career opportunity. I didn't realise how much I missed being in an amazing team working on high end film work! I feel driven to push myself so hard. Work days fly by before I know it, I'm trying to ingest so much information as quickly as I can. I'm getting to work on such amazing content. I have to pinch myself and continue commenting to Kate that I just can't believe that I have got to this point of my career! I'm utterly stoked and inspired to make the most amazing content I can and to contribute to my new team as best I can.</div><div><br></div><div>Ok, career stuff down! Now the next most important thing in our lives - our dog! It has been so great having our dog here with us! Clooney has really become a beautiful loved part of our family! The move here has really helped us bond with him and Kate and I are totally smitten now :-) social outings, holidays sporting events are all pending compatibility with Clooney :-) thankfully everyone seems to love him so he gets along well in most places!</div><div><br></div><div>We also have some good friends from Weta that live nearby, and they too have a dog, but not a really secure yard. This has led to Clooney having a play mate on work days. Flinn comes and visits most days and the two hang out all day long keeping one another entertained! It has been really nice having friends nearby with a dog! We take turns minding dogs if we go out at night, go for walks together and have beers in the garden so the dogs can have a play date!</div><div><br></div><div>Our neighbour wants to use our run down chicken coop for chickens! Hell yeah, we' down if we get some eggs! I've always wanted chickens but never really been ready to commit to the time needed to care for them! Now I get to feed and enjoy the calm nature of chickens, as well as reap the benefits of the eggs, without having to really care for them :-) definitely win win!</div><div><br></div><div>Trail running! As I have mentioned there are amazing trails near our house! Really amazi trails. A few weeks ago we found Otari Wilton Bush! An amazing botanic garden and national park with the most amazing natural bush that is full of amazing trails. There are three loops, red, yellow, blue. If I loop all 3 it gives me about 1hr 20mins of running on amazing trails. </div><div><br></div><div>From here I can jump onto the skyline trail and run back to mt Kakauh making probably a good -15-20kms. Or I can just run to Mt Kakauh from home and the hit the skyline trail to Karori and back making about 24kms. Best of all is I can run from home with Clooney and make half of our morning run on trails. It is so good running with Clooney! He is getting fitter, we can now hit about 30mins with almost no stops-other then the odd turd and whiz! But what a great way to start the day or end a long work day by going for a run with my dog!</div><div><br></div><div>Bike riding! From our place we can jam across the top of the ridge to Karori, and then descend to Makarua Beach, then jet across the back of the mountain range to Jhonstonvill and home the back way making a nice 40 km ride full of kick ass descents, solid hill climbs and amazing views!</div><div><br></div><div>We went to the world of wearable art in Wellington! What an amazing show. It was a fashion parade with a twist. As I like design I love cool fashion design, but I don't dig catwalk shows. This show mixed fashion with drama and amazing stage sets and lighting! Kate and I were both really impressed and had a great night out!</div><div><br></div><div>There have been other little catch ups with friends. But I'm pretty pooched and can't think of anything else to write right now. We've settled in and are loving our new pad and the surrounding location.</div><div><br></div><div>Pics to come once I get off the plane and have Internet access :-)</div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-17240139073492321712015-10-31T23:54:00.001-07:002015-10-31T23:54:31.355-07:00Camping finallyI just realised I am writing these recent events all out of order! Oh well-deal with it!<div><br></div><div>A few weekends ago we finally got camping. We purchased some new camping gear, and invested in a tent that had enough room under the front canopy to fit Clooney.</div><div><br></div><div>We headed to Kaitoke which is just north of Upper Hutt, about a 40 min drive from home. We figured a short trip first time around for Clooney would be the best.</div><div><br></div><div>It was a beautiful camp site! We got a beautiful location right on a river with a view over to dense rainforest.</div><div><br></div><div>The afternoon comprised of a beautiful 2 hour walk with Clooney around the river and through the amazing rainforest! Funnily enough we also heard past Rivendell from Lord of the Rings.</div><div><br></div><div>It was fun camping again and cooking up dinner! You always end up making compromises and cutting corners blue to lack of utensils and ingredients-but it always tastes amazing! We cooked up a classic we do of Asian I letter with white rice, soy sauce and some steamed green veg! Almost like a donburi bowl. Always delicious. </div><div><br></div><div>That evening Clooney was such a good boy! He curled up on his pillow and just went to sleep. The only time he stirred was first thing the next morning when he heard ducks at about 5:30! He was off like a rocket :-)</div><div><br></div><div>That morning I hit a great little trail run. One of e steepest trails I have ever run! I think I ran for 50 mins- of which 30 was climbing. I think the run was prob only 5kms! The view from the top was amazing though-well worth the pain.</div><div><br></div><div>All in all it was a great camping trip. We realised that it is going to be really easy to camp with Clooney, the weather was amazing and it was just a nice little relaxing day away, while still being close to home and easy to fit in while being super busy at work!</div><div><br></div><div>Can't wait to get back there again :-)</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-91377524271229681482015-10-31T23:43:00.001-07:002015-11-01T01:22:48.829-08:00AucklandA few months ago we bought flights to Auckland with some air points. We decided that we would head to Auckland for the Auckland Marathon! This was meant to give us a goal to train towards.<div><br></div><div>However training did not go as planned and about a month ago we downgraded to the half marathon distance. We then realised how expensive the half marathon was - $135! Lame. So we decided to not race, and seeming we've been working super hard lately and not getting a lot of time together we would just go for a nice weekend of r & r instead.</div><div><br></div><div>So what we decided to do was find a super nice reassuring to go to. Something super fancy that we had never done before. I guess we had the cost of two marathon entries to spend :-)</div><div><br></div><div>Kate discovered Clooney! This had three appealing points. 1-fine dining, degustation menu and it was rated in Aucklands top restaurants. 2-there was a vegetarian degustation menu. Something I do not see often! 3-The restaurant has the same namesake as our dog! So done deal.</div><div><br></div><div>Pretty much the dining experience was amazing! The best dining experience we have ever had. The food was amazing. Staff were knowledgeable and super friendly. The cocktails were amazing. So the serves were generous and so amazingly constructed. It took vegetarian cuisine to a place that I had never previously experienced.</div><div><br></div><div>On top of the 7 courses, they also brought out an amazing little starter and bread with the most amazing blackened butter! And to really tie up the experience, they gave us each a little take home brioche with chia jam for breakfast the following morning, really trying together the whole culinary experience.</div><div><br></div><div>Auckland was amazing. A beautiful city with nice views, great public spaces and great food. We were also blessed with beautiful weather, which also helps with exploring a new city. After arriving on Saturday we headed to a quaint little farmers market out by the Domain Park where we purchased some fresh sourdough, amazing strawberries and blue Brie cheese! We then munched this sitting on a grassy hill in the sun overlooking Auckland! Amazing start to the holiday! Following this we wandered around Parnell, visiting some cool stores and markets. By now it was early afternoon, so we made our way back downtown for a beer at Brothers Brewing and some retail therapy on Queen Street. We took a nap on the grass in Albert park and then headed to the hotel for a hot tub and swim.</div><div><br></div><div>This left just enough time for a nap and some chillaxing, and then we were off to Clooney! See above!</div><div><br></div><div>On Sunday we spent some nice time lying in the sun at some cool downtown public space, explored Davenport and the bunkers that tunnel under two hills around the town and played giant Jenga over some beers at a downtown bar/cafe. The fortifications in Davenport from WW1 were really interesting and kind of spooky. They were used to protect the naval base in Auckland harbour and are still open to wander around! Many of the bunkers go pretty deep and are really dark. Un unexpected meeting with some other tourists on a blind corner caused an amusing moment with Kate :-) We also visited the Marathon finish line! This provided some much needed motivation to get back on the sub 3 hr marathon horse! It's on for Wellington marathon next year! Training starts now!</div><div><br></div><div>We ate at many cool places, and all offered great food and fun dining experiences! All up it was a great weekend of relaxation, and we are returning inspired and refreshed to kick start some running and to really smash out some amazing work for the coming busy months at Weta! Kate and I are loving life right now :-) Enjoy it while you can and make the most of it all! It's all to short to look back and wish you'd done it differently :-)</div><div><br></div><div>Photos to come :-) Thanks for reading!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-50290617691497850822015-10-17T14:10:00.000-07:002015-10-17T14:10:19.390-07:00Windy Welly!This morning was meant to be a nice morning for a ride! Instead we wok up to wind and rain. Classic Wellington. So instead of a rid a morning of lazing about, coffee, museli and music ensued! The dog is curled up on his pillow, showing absolutely no interest in confronting the elements!<br />
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This is probably one of the most relaxed Sundays I've had in a long time, which is funny as I am working the longest hours I ever have, but now my weekends are actually feeling like weekends. They are fun and relaxing! Mixing up some running or riding when I feel like it!<br />
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Anyways, we have been getting out and about a bit, exploring this amazing city, a lot of the time with our dog! So I thought I should update my blog with some pics :-) Enjoy!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/22038998746/in/dateposted-public/" title="Clooney"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5780/22038998746_3c9f280c39_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Clooney"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/21876804680/in/dateposted-public/" title="Maraka Beach / Makara Beach Rd"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5831/21876804680_a15553374c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Maraka Beach / Makara Beach Rd"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/22255850845/in/dateposted-public/" title="Graffiti, grass and Sidewalk!"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/744/22255850845_b5771a2daf_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Graffiti, grass and Sidewalk!"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/21633181684/in/dateposted-public/" title="Fern"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/661/21633181684_c451792d67_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Fern"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/21634890883/in/dateposted-public/" title="Trelissik Park"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5646/21634890883_8d7a52d193_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Trelissik Park"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-29171349626460092942015-09-10T03:12:00.001-07:002015-10-17T13:45:29.563-07:00Looking back a year and a halfI Was just looking over my failed 2014 photo a day series, and it made me realise what a crazy year last year was! It seems like so long ago, and I'm not sure why, but it was probably one of the bleakest years of my life. For some reason I never felt settled in Adelaide. At the time I just figured that was the way life was. 9-5 job, paying the bills so you can make it to the next day.<br />
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</div><div>But that aside, the year was jam packed. We travelled to Seattle and Montana before we left Vancouver, using honeymoon money to get a first class sleeper train across america and an amazing hotel in Whitefish ski resort. We holidayed in 5 star Hyatt accom in Hong Kong, also courtesy of honeymoon money :-) We then finally returned to Adelaide after more than 3 years in Canada. Not long after returning my dad underwent major surgery which unsettled the whole family significantly.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Following this we settled into the daily grind for a good 8 months. Working and house hunting. This period sucked! I was training hard, really as a means to escape from the shitty monotony of everyday life. I started racing road bikes which was fun, but that quickly moved back to triathlon. I also trained for Adelaide Marathon but sustained an injury about 4 weeks out so had to skip the race.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I signed up for Iron Man Melbourne in July, and Kate signed up not long after. We then trained for Murray Man as an intermediate long distance triathlon en route to Iron Man. My first big run after my marathon training injury was 20kms at Murray Man. It went really well. I think Murray Man was completed in about 4hrs 36mins. It was amazing-one of the best events I've done!</div><div><br />
</div><div>We bought a house in November, then went on a week long road trip in Western Australia. We returned on Xmas eve, and hosted the family Christmas on Christmas Day! Yep we keep busy.</div><div><br />
</div><div>On Boxing Day we adopted a dog, totally unaware of the events that would happen in June of 2015.</div><div><br />
</div><div>The next 3 months was hard Iron Man training. It was fun, and such an experience training with my wife. Life was starting to get a bit more fun. We had a house and training was great.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Iron Man weekend was early in March. We stayed for a long weekend with the parents! This was one of the most amazing things I've ever done! We returned on a high, so motivated to do more and more Iron Man events.</div><div><br />
</div><div>My training obsession continued, now almost worse than before Iron Man. As I didn't have an event to look forward to I just filled that purpose or lack there of with more training. Two days after Iron Man I was training again, starting with 4kms in Unley pool. Two weekends later I competed in the silver sands long distance multi sport festival. On the sat was a 10km run and a 2 km swim. On the sun was an Olympic distance tri. I did all the events! Yep, injury here we come right.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Training continued, probably 10 hrs per week at least. Life continued on it's dull path. The house was nice; Kate and I were "loving it", and our dog was awesome, but I just continued sinking deeper and deeper into nothingness. On paper everything was perfect, but it really didn't feel that way.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I started training for long distance trail runs, and I was commonly running 3 half marathons a week, possible a few before work and then one long trail run on the weekend. I raced the green belt half marathon and set a PB. 1:24.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I continued running and riding and swimming...lots! It is now a few months after Iron Man and still no break. I started helping with training some Adelaide Running Crew sessions...and then the injury finally happened.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I am now, 14 weeks later, finally able to run pain free. This injury was a blessing. It snapped me out of my obsessive cycle, almost. I still swam a bit, but cycling and running was totally off for a good 8 weeks. All I could maintain was some careful core work, and a bit of light stretching and yoga. I couldn't kick in the pool, so I did full sessions with the pull bouy.</div><div><br />
</div><div>At this point I got pretty bleak. I couldn't really see where to go next...then out of the blue an opportunity arose. Jobs presented themselves in Wellington. 4 weeks later we were on the plane to Wellington!</div><div><br />
</div><div>It is now 8 weeks later. I just went home for my sisters wedding, and immediately when my sis and mum saw me they noticed I was the happiest they've seen me in years. And I am! Time is flying by, we are so busy learning new things and exploring our new home. Work is amazing and so inspiring! I am challenged all the time and am loving every moment of it!</div><div><br />
</div><div>The move was hard, but it's the best thing we've ever done. I didn't realise how much I needed to leave Adelaide until I actually did it! I guess what I'm saying is, life is too short to think that you have to put up with the daily grind just cos you have a mortgage and a dog! </div><div><br />
</div><br />
Life tells us we have to do these responsible things in order to be "successful",but man, these so called life goals made me freaking unhappy! If you're hating it, go out and make something cool happen. Do something that re-inspires you to live again; something that makes hobbies fun; something that makes getting up each day exciting. I forgot what that was like for a year, to be truly happy. I now realise that the life I was living was not a prerequisite of growing up, of being "successful".<br />
<br />
Falling into a monotonous life of bills and pay slips doesn't really sound inspiring to anyone...I hope; it is just too often that we think it is the right thing to do, but maybe it isn't? Maybe it is often for lack of anything else better to do, or lack of motivation to go and do something amazing! But remember, you only live once, it may as we'll be fun!<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-48245246374738008842015-08-21T23:10:00.001-07:002015-08-21T23:10:14.448-07:00Ngaio, Our New HomeWe are finally settling into our new home! We rented in Ngaio, out in the 'burbs, somewhere that we could house our dog:-)<br />
<br />
Our place is nice, it has an amazing view over a beautiful housed valley, with a backdrop of some amazing mountains, in which are some amazing trails to run on!<br />
<br />
It really is so beautiful here. Within a 10 minute run we can be on the most amazing trails I've ever run on, with beautiful streams and forests to entertain while running or walking the dog.<br />
<br />
We have some great neighbours and it is relatively easy for us to get to work. I drive sometimes, and other times I ride, when weather permits. It is a tiny commute for Kate to work at the moment which is nice. We have also ended up halfway between Welly City Centre and Lower Hutt. This is great as Lower Hutt has nice markets and food shops, whereas if you lived in the city you are stuck with supermarkets and higher food prices.<br />
<br />
Work is amazing. It is so inspiring to be working somewhere challenging and with such amazing people. I am learning so much and can't believe it's already been 3 weeks of work. The next year is going to pass quickly!<br />
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Anyways, that's enough, but I'll finish with some pics from some recent walks around Ngaio. Enjoy!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" data-header="false" data-footer="false" data-context="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/20029881893/in/dateposted-public/" title="Kandallah Park"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/616/20029881893_205e736b2b_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Kandallah Park"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" data-header="false" data-footer="false" data-context="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/20464083799/in/dateposted-public/" title="Kandallah Park"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/669/20464083799_d70f705b3d_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Kandallah Park"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
<br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" data-header="false" data-footer="false" data-context="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/20641593222/in/dateposted-public/" title="Escape Artist"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/745/20641593222_df2faf11bb_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Escape Artist"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-3167865906165655722015-08-05T12:38:00.001-07:002015-08-07T17:32:58.655-07:00TattooNever thought I'd get one...<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/timforbes/20165633336/in/dateposted-public/" title="Iron Man Tat"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/496/20165633336_27f93d99f8_b.jpg" width="1024" height="684" alt="Iron Man Tat"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-29095349207518645862015-08-05T12:33:00.001-07:002015-08-05T12:33:53.045-07:00Random daily dribble....So it is WET today. I had to drop Clooney to doggie day care and got so soaked doing so. When I dropped Clooney off there were two beautiful dalmations that he seemed to get along with really well! I hope he has a good day. He must like it cos he just zonks out afterwards.<div><br></div><div>I was up at 6 today so thought I'd do a bit of a run. It is coming along well. There is still some pain, but there is now pretty much no lingering pain within a few hours of the run. Each session it seems that I'm able to run a bit further. Today I sustained maybe 20mins with a few little walks. So I'm feeling good.</div><div><br></div><div>Day 4 at Weta today. Man it's fun working somewhere like Weta. It is just inspiring to work with such a talented team. There is a boat load to learn, I feel a bit like a sponge at the moment, soaking up all this new knowledge. Needless to say my brain is feeling fried each day :-)</div><div><br></div><div>The public transport here is pretty good, and as I catch the bus either side of rush hour it's pretty quick.</div><div><br></div><div>Other news-we bought a car! It has only done 65000km and looks in freaking schmick condition. It is a Mitsi Colt, 2005. Dual airbags, tiny 1.5lt engine. She runs on the smell of an oily rag, as my dad would say.</div><div><br></div><div>And I think the final news i I finally manned up and got my Iron Man tattoo. I'm super stoked with it. It looks exactly like I wanted :-) getting it is a reminder of the amazing time that kate and i had leading up to and doing Melbourne Iron Man and it isnspires me to keep up the exercise :-)</div><div><br></div><div>Till next time :-)</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-14247491707021624562015-08-03T11:42:00.001-07:002015-08-03T11:53:58.150-07:00Commute Time....Blog TimeWell I have finally started at Weta. I'm on the bus for day 2. The plan was to ride, however 140kmph wind gusts made me think the ride may be a bit unsafe :-/<div><br></div><div>This presents a good opportunity to post some updates. We've been busy for the last two weeks. It's been fun and stressful, but once again, Kate and I have proven our ability to team up and work together in stressful situations.</div><div><br></div><div>We found a house in the suburb Ngaio. A little away from Weta, but it splits the difference between our works and has a rad yard for Clooney. We bought a nice little fuel efficient car :-)</div><div><br></div><div>Food here is amazing and we've been having brunch out with friends often. There are so many cafes and it seems that all coffee is great. There is good vegetarian cusine which is awesome.</div><div><br></div><div>The bike riding here is a lot of fun. I've been on some of the most beautiful rides I've ever done and they are all so accessible from Wellington. Our new house will have amazing rides and trail runs straight out of the front door.</div><div><br></div><div>I have started running a bit, and slowly but surely it's getting better. Hopefully a month away from some longer runs, maybe even in Adelaide for my sisters wedding.</div><div><br></div><div>Commute over...tbc</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-49602949123949158182015-08-01T01:49:00.001-07:002015-08-01T01:49:46.455-07:00Custom MPxCommandWow this API stuff is really cool. As I'm picking it up it is like learning a language. I'm getting more fluent and understanding the power of it more and more. So I have written a few dependencyNodes now, so I thought I'd make a custom MPxCommand.<br />
<br />
I built a command that searches the dependencyGraph for a given node type. You specify the node type to search for and the direction to search in. YOu then call it just as though it is another maya command. So rad as this can now be built into my code as if it were just part of maya.<br />
<br />
<br />
So my command is: findConnectedNodeType. You call it like:<br />
<br />
node = cmds.findConnectedNodeType('blendColors','up')<br />
<br />
The return value is either False or the found node name. The command looks through the upstream dependencyGraph until the first instance of that node is found. It then stops the iteration and returns the node name.<br />
<br />
<u>Cool stuff I learnt.</u><br />
<br />
To return from a MPxCommand you must use the public function of MPxCommand setResult. <br />
<br />
self.setResult(return value goes here)<br />
<br />
This comes at the end of the doIt() function.<br />
<br />
Enumerators are also making a bit more sense now that I am using them more. For example I had to use MItDependencyGraph. You can specify the direction to search, up or down stream. The help docs show this for the direction.<br />
<br />
MItDependencyGraph ( MObject & rootNode,<br /> MPlug & rootPlug,<br /> MIteratorType & infoObject,<br /> <u>Direction direction = kDownstream,</u><br /> Traversal traversal = kDepthFirst,<br /> Level level = kNodeLevel,<br /> MStatus * ReturnStatus = NULL <br /> ) <br />
<br />
and this:<br />
<br />
enum <a class="el" href="http://docs.autodesk.com/MAYAUL/2014/ENU/Maya-API-Documentation/cpp_ref/class_m_it_dependency_graph.html#a224b9163917ac32fc95a60d8c1eec3aa">
Direction</a>
<br />
<div class="searchLinkDiv">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Search for all
occurrences</a></div>
Direction within the DG relative to root Node or Plug.<br />
<dl>
<dt><b>Enumerator:</b></dt>
<dd>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="2">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><em><a class="anchor" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="a224b9163917ac32fc95a60d8c1eec3aaa1eaa6232753ec5bb4249cf82bc612992">
</a>
kDownstream</em> </td>
<td>
From source to destination.<br />
<div class="searchLinkDivInline">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Search for
all occurrences</a></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><em><a class="anchor" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="a224b9163917ac32fc95a60d8c1eec3aaa8a1fab0ce1da9f8eb804389091ba08a9">
</a>
kUpstream</em> </td>
<td>
From destination to source.<br />
<div class="searchLinkDivInline">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">Search
for all occurrences</a></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</dd></dl>
A bit cryptic at first if you arent familiar with how to read this. So To insert this correctly into the MItDependencyGraph class call you need to do this.<br />
<br />
OpenMaya.MItDependencyGraph(OpenMaya.MItDependencyGraph.kDownstream)<br />
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So because this enumerator is a child of the class MItDependencyGraph , it must be specified in context of this class hierarchy. (OpenMaya.MItDependencyGraph). You can then set any number of the enum options that the help displays, in this case <em>
kDownstream</em> or <em>
kUpstream</em> and the class call will know to look for that enum if you set it (you don't have to specify anything and maya will use the default)<br />
<br />
Ok. Hope that is a bit clearer than mud. Till next time.<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987975117639222603.post-62988082680115377562015-07-31T20:47:00.001-07:002015-07-31T20:47:00.580-07:00Thats what lifes about....I just met a guy, he's a barrista at a cafe at the start of willis st. He rode 5000km accross Canada. I asked if he was a cyclist? His answer was 'no, it was a drunken idea and i went through with it'. He rode Montreal to Vancouver. What an amazing trip that would have been.<div>If that's not living life, i dont know what is.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0