I know I haven't written many stories on this blog; that wasn't really the point to begin with. But now that our time as Kiwi wannabes is over, I find myself wishing I could share the whole experience with everyone more fully, and I have no doubt I'll try in many a conversation to come. In all honesty though, this kind of adventure is just one of those things you have to live for yourselves, and I hope my writing, in whatever small way, might help facilitate that for some of you.
To tell you the truth, I've put off writing this post for a few days now, because I'm not quite sure how to just "wrap up" this blog. But it has to end at some point and that point is probably now, so after thinking about it for a while, I've decided on a topic. Instead of a summary that could never even start to encapsulate what these past seven-ish months have been to Alec and me, I want to use this final post to thank the folks who changed our lives along the way. In order of appearance, so to speak:
To John and Val Massam - thank you for welcoming us into your home, and into this incredible country. We were in no way expecting the kind and refreshing hospitality we found during the times we stayed with you, and we are in awe of your generous hearts.
To Karen Avery - we cannot thank you enough for being our fearless leader and solid friend during our time at Lakes Ranch. In every situation we went through together, you showed us the meaning of determination and persistence, and somehow managed to laugh through it all.
To Cousins Kirk and Norma - how blessed we were to have such welcoming and fun-loving relatives in this far-off part of the world. We thoroughly enjoyed being a part of your Ahipara community, and only wish we had been able to spend more time with you.
To Scott and Jebraun Clifford - Calvary Bible Chapel was our church home away from home, and we are so grateful for the way you and your congregation opened your arms (literal and metaphorical) to us during our time in Rotorua. P.S. Go Packers!
To Rachel Paterson - oh Rachel, what would we have done without you? Our constant hosting teammate, our cinema buddy, our sole dual-island friend... it's no exaggeration to say we'll never forget the times we spent together, good, bad, and ugly.
To Manu and Elli Deerwood - what fun we had with you two, our fellow newlywed couple! Thank you for all the laughs and all the good conversation. We so enjoyed hanging out with you, and can't wait for more fun times ahead in Europe.
To Aaron Mcleish - we truly couldn't have asked for a better housemate and coworker. You taught us more than you know. You are incredibly skilled at the many, many things you do for Mt. Hutt Retreat. Thank you for your wisdom, generosity, and selfless leadership.
To everyone at All Saints - yours was the most warm and welcoming church congregation we have ever encountered. God has done and continues to do a good work among you. Thank you for embracing us even for the short time we spent with you.
To Dennis, Daphne, and Julien - it was so much (too much?) fun getting to know you on the Milford Track. Thanks for all the laughs over freeze-dried meals and Time's Up, not to mention the crash course in European culture. Cheers guys!
To Jon and Tess Hicks - the time we spent with you and your family was truly a joy. Thank you for opening your home to us and showing us such a clear picture of Christ in the love you showed us and shared with each other. We pray His blessings on you (and Ava, Cohen, Caleigh, and Judah).
To Kenneth and Justine Irons - how we wish we had met you sooner along our journey! Thank you for one of our most memorable evenings to date, filled with the very best kind of community. We were blessed by your company and deeply touched by your words of wisdom and encouragement.
With much love,
The Genos
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