25 August, last post from Wellington

I listened to my favorite pair of tui birds this morning who serenade us every morning while enjoying the berries in the tree outside our dining room.  And I walked with fresh eyes as I traipsed down my favorite "187" - the 187 steps across the street that connect us with the central downtown area and that have made me stronger over the past eight months. It was a lovely clear, crisp day. I went into the office one last time to give a report to senior officials at the Ministry and to say goodbye to my colleagues at Immigration NZ, never an easy thing for me.

The afternoon was filled with packing completion and giving away yet more that I simply can't bring home. We sent two small boxes of my research and our books for a ridiculous price. Soon we will head back into downtown to enjoy the Wellington Light Festival and one more dinner at our favorite Indian restaurant.

Eight months. It all seemed so relaxed and long in those first months. And now, in a flash of time, it will be behind us. Of course, I will enjoy seeing our US friends, relatives, and my cat and horse! But I would stay here in a heartbeat. And part of my heart will remain here. I have learned a great deal about living in a social democracy (I love it) and a proper work/life balance. I will do what I can to bring it with me.

Aroha ana ahau ki a koe Aotearoa.