New Zealand Winter Getaway w/ Jack and Shoni

We have been missing

our international travel...

our take-offs

and landings

our hotel stays

and excursions

(and it is not clear exactly when/if we will

ever return without rules and restriction)

so I asked my family on the other side of the pond

to share some of their recent adventures from home

to show us how to appreciate

the beauty and grace

of wherever you are

AND THEN...

when the photos hit my inbox, it 

reminded me of WHY travel is so important

the opportunity to see new places, meet new people,

and experience authentic food, language and culture

provides perspective

because when you're born and raised

in a certain place, you only truly know that place

but when you have the chance

"to get out into the world"

see

visit

explore

you'll find that your way

of viewing things 

expands

and only then 

can you understand that

even when you're experiencing 

triple digit heat waves

in your hometown...

It's still Winter somewhere!!

----------------------------------

Jack and Shoni

my younger cousin and her hubby

popping in from New Zealand to greet us... 

"Kia Kaha" 

(translated- stay strong)

because during these times 

we are all trying to... 

take time to refresh

spend more time outdoors

and

enjoy moments with

our favorite people! 

Wellington to Queenstown

(approx 570 miles)

When you've been working seven days a week,

you are definitely due for a break!

Queenstown, New Zealand

Shoni enjoying this majestic view of Bowen Peak

She says...

Queenstown is a beautiful destination 

-a tiny town set on a lake surrounded by mountains-

that is enjoyable no matter the time of year.

We'd been twice in spring and summer,

so we thought we'd give winter a try 

Onsen Hot Pools

soaking in the hot pool 

(while enjoying a starry night 

view overlooking the Shotover River)

Yes, yes, and, yes!

www.onsen.co.nz

"We've been both during day and night,

and it's hard to say which we prefer"

Helicopter Ride to Coronet Peak

Crisp air... Beautiful view

Amazing time right here with you

No matter what the future holds, I will

never forget soaring to new heights...

with you

Thank you Jack and Shoni 

for taking us along for the ride!

(find more Family Adventures here)