Why didn't I do this in the first place you might ask? GOOD QUESTION, but had ONE THING actually gone the right way, I would have had my visa in August. I didn't anticipate the problems that would arise so I wasn't in a huge hurry 4 months ago. The difference in applying here or there really isn't much different at all. If I already had my visa before I left then I would just buy a one-way ticket and be done with it. Since I'm waiting till I'm there to apply I had to buy a roundtrip ticket (which was actually a better deal....so something DID work out in my favor!) I will be flying out of OKC at 10:58 am where I will then go to LAX and have an exciting 9-hour layover before I commence a 14-hour flight to NZ. Sounds like a long day to me!
As you might have noticed, I've added a paypal link to the upper right portion of my blog for a more convenient method of contribution! No Pressure people....it's just your soul. (I'm kidding, obviously.)
Speaking of fundraising....It's beginning to pick up, and just in time! Prayer really does work!!! I have enough money now for the first year and I hope year-two funds will start to come in soon!
Over this past weekend I got to spend a lot of time with my family. Everyone (except one brother-in-law ) came to Duncan for my family going away party. Considering there are 26 people in my immediate family I would say we did pretty good getting 25 out of 26 in the same place at the same time. I loved getting to spend the time with all my siblings and the kids playing whiffle ball and watching movies! I got a few going away gifts like a cookbook compiled of family recipes but I think the best thing would have to be a ticket to the World Series game 5 from my brother, Ryan.
As much fun as I have with my friends and family, I'm really excited to see what God has in store for me in the beautiful Tauranga, New Zealand!!!
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Yep, that is an active volcano in the town where I will be living. I think those are Great Whites swimming around it too......
*disclaimer: It's 12:55 am and I have no intention of proof reading my blog for errors tonight. SORRY!