So practice last night really wasn't THAT tough. We did hit, but it was only pads and not other players. I guess they're just saying us for the internal trial. Heh.
After practice the club hosted a BBQ. I ate a ton! Pork chops and sausages. Tonight I work at 4 and they have a Super 14 game that will be playibng. The local Hurricanes vs the Chiefs. At work the owner puts up a grand stand and reall gets everyone into the game. Should be fun.
Well, out of time.
Cheers
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
2 minutes
I have 2 minutes.
I've done reserarch for an ISP so hopefully I won't be paying by the minute for internet access soon.
My job is good so far. I've worked two days and work again tomorrow. told them to throw me into it. That was I ready to work! It sure is good to have something else to do and not be so bored. Makes the time go by faster. So that's good.
We start hitting at practice tonight, so that should be sweet. Get banged up a little. get the feel for it.
Cheers
I've done reserarch for an ISP so hopefully I won't be paying by the minute for internet access soon.
My job is good so far. I've worked two days and work again tomorrow. told them to throw me into it. That was I ready to work! It sure is good to have something else to do and not be so bored. Makes the time go by faster. So that's good.
We start hitting at practice tonight, so that should be sweet. Get banged up a little. get the feel for it.
Cheers
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Wednesday 27
Well, I had my first day on the job yesterday.
I was hired at "The Fireman's Arms" as a bartender. It's a nice place. Good food, and they have a cool courtyard outside and stuff. It was really slow, but that was a good thing b/c it was my first day. I feel real uncomfortble working there so far. It's just not the same as working in the states, obviously. Different ways of doing things. They do their own laundry, instead of sending it out. All the different types of coffee's they make it crazy. Other than that, you don't pour many mixed drinks and stuff. So that's easy. Mainly beers and RTD's (ready to drink's).
But all the that will come in time. Mainly when I get a little better of a trainer. Honestly she didn't tell me all that much about stuff. I mean, if it was Heidi like at Carrabba's or something I would have gotten more out of it.
We begin real hitting tomorrow at practice, rather than with pads. Should be interesting. In just one week we have our internal trial where everyone is fighting for their positions on teams. Next Thursday is the day. Gonna be up against some big Kiwi coconuts.
Tomorrow I'm going to practice early to practice my kicking with one of our coaches names Murry. He was a back and kicked so he should be able to critique my skills. The main thing I need to get the hang of is the wind. It's ridiculous.
I keep losing weight, which is also pretty ridiculous. I'm now down to about 186/187 lbs. I couldn't believe it when I stepped on the scale and I was a whole kilo and 1/2 under. All this running is taking its toll. It's funny b/c I thought I was eating a extreme amount of food. I guess I just can't keep up. As long as I get faster with it I guess it's not that bad of a thing.
Well, last thing I want to say is Good Luck to the Cajun's at Ruggerfest when they take on Loyola. I know they won't need it, b/c they're gonna win. So, good luck fellas
Cheers
I was hired at "The Fireman's Arms" as a bartender. It's a nice place. Good food, and they have a cool courtyard outside and stuff. It was really slow, but that was a good thing b/c it was my first day. I feel real uncomfortble working there so far. It's just not the same as working in the states, obviously. Different ways of doing things. They do their own laundry, instead of sending it out. All the different types of coffee's they make it crazy. Other than that, you don't pour many mixed drinks and stuff. So that's easy. Mainly beers and RTD's (ready to drink's).
But all the that will come in time. Mainly when I get a little better of a trainer. Honestly she didn't tell me all that much about stuff. I mean, if it was Heidi like at Carrabba's or something I would have gotten more out of it.
We begin real hitting tomorrow at practice, rather than with pads. Should be interesting. In just one week we have our internal trial where everyone is fighting for their positions on teams. Next Thursday is the day. Gonna be up against some big Kiwi coconuts.
Tomorrow I'm going to practice early to practice my kicking with one of our coaches names Murry. He was a back and kicked so he should be able to critique my skills. The main thing I need to get the hang of is the wind. It's ridiculous.
I keep losing weight, which is also pretty ridiculous. I'm now down to about 186/187 lbs. I couldn't believe it when I stepped on the scale and I was a whole kilo and 1/2 under. All this running is taking its toll. It's funny b/c I thought I was eating a extreme amount of food. I guess I just can't keep up. As long as I get faster with it I guess it's not that bad of a thing.
Well, last thing I want to say is Good Luck to the Cajun's at Ruggerfest when they take on Loyola. I know they won't need it, b/c they're gonna win. So, good luck fellas
Cheers
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Sunday 24
* If anyone who reads this is trying to contact me on facebook, I can't check it. So, e-mail me and I can reply
So it's Sunday and the weekend came and went. Friday did end up pretty fun. First I went to check out the job and I was told to wait the weekend. I talked to the "real" boss Barbara, the guy's wife. I think my availability is good. They just had to talk to one other person come Monday to figure it out. Basically they have all girls who are working there and they say they need another male behind the bar. It really seems like a fun atmosphere so I really want the job.
Then, I went to the match. The Hurricane won the match, but they still sucked it up. Wasn't the best game play, but still cool. The stadium sure is tiny compared to say... Tiger Stadium. Just one level, but that's just what I like about it. They call it the Cake Tin because it looks like one. The rules are a little wierd. They are implementing new rules this season, beginning in Super 14 geared to be more "spectator friendly." The game is supposed to stop less. The IRB will implement these rules to the norhtern hemesphere in June, so I hear. I don't know if our club play will be taking these into account. I keep getting mixed answers from people I ask.
My next thing I'm trying to do is reach this guy named Dan Kirkpatrick. He's this 19 year old rising star which plays for Petone. He also plays my position. I want to see if I can practice my kicking with him. Kicking in this wind over here is brutal. Seriously.
Saturday I went into Wellington to visit the museum called Te Papa. It's the New Zealand Wellington Museum which is all about their culture and history and everything else. Also, it's free! So, that was pretty cool, and surprisingly tiring.
Saturday night I didn't do crap. basically I ran out of money in my account and have to wait until Monday so I can transfer more money into it. So, yesterday was boring.
So it's Sunday and the weekend came and went. Friday did end up pretty fun. First I went to check out the job and I was told to wait the weekend. I talked to the "real" boss Barbara, the guy's wife. I think my availability is good. They just had to talk to one other person come Monday to figure it out. Basically they have all girls who are working there and they say they need another male behind the bar. It really seems like a fun atmosphere so I really want the job.
Then, I went to the match. The Hurricane won the match, but they still sucked it up. Wasn't the best game play, but still cool. The stadium sure is tiny compared to say... Tiger Stadium. Just one level, but that's just what I like about it. They call it the Cake Tin because it looks like one. The rules are a little wierd. They are implementing new rules this season, beginning in Super 14 geared to be more "spectator friendly." The game is supposed to stop less. The IRB will implement these rules to the norhtern hemesphere in June, so I hear. I don't know if our club play will be taking these into account. I keep getting mixed answers from people I ask.
My next thing I'm trying to do is reach this guy named Dan Kirkpatrick. He's this 19 year old rising star which plays for Petone. He also plays my position. I want to see if I can practice my kicking with him. Kicking in this wind over here is brutal. Seriously.
Saturday I went into Wellington to visit the museum called Te Papa. It's the New Zealand Wellington Museum which is all about their culture and history and everything else. Also, it's free! So, that was pretty cool, and surprisingly tiring.
Saturday night I didn't do crap. basically I ran out of money in my account and have to wait until Monday so I can transfer more money into it. So, yesterday was boring.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Friday!
So it's Friday and I'm still hurtin a little bit after yesterday's practice. It's not the practice, it's just that I've had some trouble with my knee (not the same knee I hurt before) since last weekend and yesterday just spurred it on a bit more. It's be alright after some weekend rest.
This guy Tim Mannix gave me a bike to use, so now I will be able to explore places farther away and not have to pay to use the bus. Sweet. I just need a bike lock. It's the law to wear a bike helmet, so that's a little wierd.
I go back to the "Fireman's Arms" at 3:30 to see if I have a job. Hopefully that will be the case. One set back. I have a ticket a rugby match tonight in Welllington. It's the super 14 teams playing - Hurricane's vrs. Red's. My first super 14 game! I have to go! So, we'll see if they want me to work tonight. Either way, the game will be on at the bar. It's only 3 weeks until our first match. People are starting to talk about it and get excited. I know I am. Practices have been going pretty well. I just wish I could get out more and run. I've been hitting the gym, but now there's that thing with my knee holding me back from running outside of practice.
The players are really good over here. Props and stuff running like backs with the ball skill of backs. This is going to be insane. Can't wait to learn a whole new game. It will surely be much quicker. Well, gotta go get some groceries and spend all my money. Cheers
This guy Tim Mannix gave me a bike to use, so now I will be able to explore places farther away and not have to pay to use the bus. Sweet. I just need a bike lock. It's the law to wear a bike helmet, so that's a little wierd.
I go back to the "Fireman's Arms" at 3:30 to see if I have a job. Hopefully that will be the case. One set back. I have a ticket a rugby match tonight in Welllington. It's the super 14 teams playing - Hurricane's vrs. Red's. My first super 14 game! I have to go! So, we'll see if they want me to work tonight. Either way, the game will be on at the bar. It's only 3 weeks until our first match. People are starting to talk about it and get excited. I know I am. Practices have been going pretty well. I just wish I could get out more and run. I've been hitting the gym, but now there's that thing with my knee holding me back from running outside of practice.
The players are really good over here. Props and stuff running like backs with the ball skill of backs. This is going to be insane. Can't wait to learn a whole new game. It will surely be much quicker. Well, gotta go get some groceries and spend all my money. Cheers
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Wednesday
So the days go on, and I still have no job. I must admit I haven't tried everywhere. I'm just waiting to hear from these two places which are about 50 meters away from where I live. Even on the same street. So, I think it's worth waiting as long as it's not too long. They said to wait a couple days for an answer. For one, it's making this process a little tough for the fact that I don't have a phone. I bought a sim card, but it won't work with my phone so that sucks.
Practice yesterday was a good one I like the Tuesday practices because they are easier. More skill training. We still have fitness training mixed in, but it's not the same as Thursday at this time. Thursdays are with a coach from the Army rugby clubs over here and those are some bastard training sessions. Just a different kind of training, for show. Also, we were told last night that we'll be performing a beep test within the next 2 to 3 training sessions. Those always suck. We have our first preliminary match in 3 weeks I believe. First, we'll have internal scrimage, which I hear is real full on. You can imagine there will be lots of competition going on on that pitch. So, better get ready for that. Other than that, not much happening. I think I'll rent out of bartending book from the library, if they have it, and go over my drinks again. I mean, if I plan to work in a bar that kind of stuff would be good to know. Hope everything is going well in the states. Cheers
Practice yesterday was a good one I like the Tuesday practices because they are easier. More skill training. We still have fitness training mixed in, but it's not the same as Thursday at this time. Thursdays are with a coach from the Army rugby clubs over here and those are some bastard training sessions. Just a different kind of training, for show. Also, we were told last night that we'll be performing a beep test within the next 2 to 3 training sessions. Those always suck. We have our first preliminary match in 3 weeks I believe. First, we'll have internal scrimage, which I hear is real full on. You can imagine there will be lots of competition going on on that pitch. So, better get ready for that. Other than that, not much happening. I think I'll rent out of bartending book from the library, if they have it, and go over my drinks again. I mean, if I plan to work in a bar that kind of stuff would be good to know. Hope everything is going well in the states. Cheers
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Weekend!
So it's Sunday and I had a great Saturday!
While working out in the gym Thursday I met this guy Joey. I told him about how I was a little bored and such, and he invited me to this thing him and his mates were doing this weekend. It was a stag party and they were going up Friday afternoon, but if I didn't have the funds someone was meeting them Saturday and I would be able to hitch a ride. We went to a place called Woodville. A small out of the way place which was hosting a tournament of a game called Forceback. First of all, I didn't even know what it was or where I was going. It just sounded fun. I knew we would be camping outside, and that was it.
I was picked up Saturday morning at 7:30. They guy's name was Noel, and he was the father of the guy getting married. Joey is the guy's best mate and put the whole weekend together. So it was a good drive. Two hours north and I got to see much of the country side. The weather sucked though. It was rainy on and off the whole time, and that made it difficult to raise the tent. Joey borrowed this tent from the rugby club, and it's not really a camping tent. It's a tent like what is raised at sporting functions and stuff. It actually took us 3 times putting it up to get it to stay. The wind was so strong, it kept topling over. We were actually thinking of leaving and going back home, if we couldn't get it to stay. Finally, we our last try did it. Instead of using the pegs, we had to tie the ropes to the wheels of the cars and use them as wheel bases so the tent wouldn't fly away. At least that did it.
So basically Foreback was what we call kickback in the states. It really a game these New Zealanders play in the school yard. Our rugby team would play this at home sometimes when we didn't have numbers at practice and stuff. It's pretty fun. I didn't think I was going to be playing, but Joey loaned me some shorts so I played. Teams dressed up in ridiculous costumes and that was really fun. People even had a beer in their hand while they were playing. It was a fun atmosphere and we had a great time. We made it to the final match of the loser bracket, so that was cool. Lost in over time. they also had a party once it was all over. They had a band and stuff. Also, this morning the sponser hosted breakfast at their brewery. It's the New Zealand beer Tui. We were ready to go home though so we didn't do the tour. Well, my time is running out so I have to cut this short. Cheers
While working out in the gym Thursday I met this guy Joey. I told him about how I was a little bored and such, and he invited me to this thing him and his mates were doing this weekend. It was a stag party and they were going up Friday afternoon, but if I didn't have the funds someone was meeting them Saturday and I would be able to hitch a ride. We went to a place called Woodville. A small out of the way place which was hosting a tournament of a game called Forceback. First of all, I didn't even know what it was or where I was going. It just sounded fun. I knew we would be camping outside, and that was it.
I was picked up Saturday morning at 7:30. They guy's name was Noel, and he was the father of the guy getting married. Joey is the guy's best mate and put the whole weekend together. So it was a good drive. Two hours north and I got to see much of the country side. The weather sucked though. It was rainy on and off the whole time, and that made it difficult to raise the tent. Joey borrowed this tent from the rugby club, and it's not really a camping tent. It's a tent like what is raised at sporting functions and stuff. It actually took us 3 times putting it up to get it to stay. The wind was so strong, it kept topling over. We were actually thinking of leaving and going back home, if we couldn't get it to stay. Finally, we our last try did it. Instead of using the pegs, we had to tie the ropes to the wheels of the cars and use them as wheel bases so the tent wouldn't fly away. At least that did it.
So basically Foreback was what we call kickback in the states. It really a game these New Zealanders play in the school yard. Our rugby team would play this at home sometimes when we didn't have numbers at practice and stuff. It's pretty fun. I didn't think I was going to be playing, but Joey loaned me some shorts so I played. Teams dressed up in ridiculous costumes and that was really fun. People even had a beer in their hand while they were playing. It was a fun atmosphere and we had a great time. We made it to the final match of the loser bracket, so that was cool. Lost in over time. they also had a party once it was all over. They had a band and stuff. Also, this morning the sponser hosted breakfast at their brewery. It's the New Zealand beer Tui. We were ready to go home though so we didn't do the tour. Well, my time is running out so I have to cut this short. Cheers
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Website
In case nobody knows, the website for the rugby club I'm playing for is http://www.petonerugby.com . They have their own photographer, and are pretty good at posting galleries. So, throughout the season, the MAY be some pics of me. They will probably just shoot the Premier team, but we'll see.
Training, Moving
It's Tuesday night and I've just finished team training.
The way it works now is it's literally fitness training b/c it is still preseason. So my first practice was that horrible practice when I first arrived off the plane. This practice, much better! I guess my body has gotten acclimated to the climate. The past two days I've gotten into somewhat of a routine. Wake up, breakfast, then I run to the gym about a kilometer or so away from where I'm staying (this includes a massive hill). Bloddy hell those hills. They will take some getting used to but I welcome the challenge.
I then come home to eat lunch, have some rest time, and then run back to the grounds for some other activity. Yesterday it was speed training. Rather informal and fun. Only about ten guys were there. Today it was team training.
The team training today was great. I didn’t have any problems with my allergies or asthma and it was a great workout. Lots of running and a few ball skill drills. Today he announced that a team from Sydney will be coming in about 3 weeks. Furthermore, he emphasized that he wanted to choose players from our group to play in the match, so we’d better work hard so he doesn’t have to choose players from the Premier side. The Premier side trains separate from everyone else.
From what I gather, we’ll all train together and play in preseason matches together. After these matches the coaches will have a good idea on how to distribute the players to which team. Like Senior 1’s, Senior 2’s, and Senior 3’s – Senior 1’s being below the Premier squad. They also have U-19’s, U-21’s, and U-23’s as well.
I’m not sure what is going to happen tomorrow. I’m moving into a room above this Irish bar named “Murphy’s Law” in the morning. They chap said it wouldn’t be ready until Monday, but called me up this morning and said it would be all ready to move in tomorrow. So, unfortunately the club will not be able to provide a place to stay rent free, so I’ll have to chip it away myself. This room above the bar will go for $100 a week. It’s a little weird how rent goes by the week over here. There are 5 other room’s which means 5 other roommates, 2 bathrooms, a lounge, and a kitchen. It has a washing machine, but no dryer. Everyone I’ve seen doesn’t seem to have a dryer. Perhaps that is a luxury around these parts. The room has a bed, a closet, and some shelves. The owner, Tomahou (like Tom-a-hoe) assures me I will be able to find a free TV somewhere. I don’t really care, there’s one in the lounge. I’ve just been reading a lot anyway. There is a library not far away and I can rent stuff out for $2 a piece. I will probably take advantage of that.
Now, here is another option. So I’m leaving training tonight and one guy stops me to ask if I’m looking for a flat. He’s looking for a flat mate. I believe there are 2 of them, and I would make three. Of course, these guys are teammates, which would be good to stay with, and the rent would be $90 a week. Unfortunately, he had absolutely no time to discuss this matter further, and says we’ll talk more Thursday. So now, I may move in to the bar tomorrow, and then move out again come Friday. If a bed will be provided I will take it into serious consideration. They said the flat is only 2 minutes away from Murphy’s Law.
I spoke to the owner at the bar I’m looking to work at, and he gave me the go ahead to stop by on Thursday so speak about a job. This bar is only about 100 meters down from the pub so work and my flat is a great location for both. The bar and the flat above the bar is only a 10 minutes walk to the pitch and clubhouse, so great location. I guess I’ll figure out everything by Friday.
So taking this all in, I don’t believe I will have regular access to a computer. I will try to borrow one from somewhere at least once a week, even if I have to walk to the home in which I’m staying at now (which isn’t that far). I really don’t mind the walking and running. Figure it’s just keeping me in shape. I’m not looking forward to actually buying my own groceries and fixing my own food. That aspect, at least, has been great during my stay here. Three nice meals a day and all the food has been great. Also, everything, including groceries are so damn expensive. I’m missing my Wal-Mart about now that’s for sure.
So, it may be a few days until I post again. Depending on how much time I have, I may actually blog on my laptop like a journal, then copy/paste it all accordingly online.
Cheers,
"Kia Kaha Kia Maia"
The way it works now is it's literally fitness training b/c it is still preseason. So my first practice was that horrible practice when I first arrived off the plane. This practice, much better! I guess my body has gotten acclimated to the climate. The past two days I've gotten into somewhat of a routine. Wake up, breakfast, then I run to the gym about a kilometer or so away from where I'm staying (this includes a massive hill). Bloddy hell those hills. They will take some getting used to but I welcome the challenge.
I then come home to eat lunch, have some rest time, and then run back to the grounds for some other activity. Yesterday it was speed training. Rather informal and fun. Only about ten guys were there. Today it was team training.
The team training today was great. I didn’t have any problems with my allergies or asthma and it was a great workout. Lots of running and a few ball skill drills. Today he announced that a team from Sydney will be coming in about 3 weeks. Furthermore, he emphasized that he wanted to choose players from our group to play in the match, so we’d better work hard so he doesn’t have to choose players from the Premier side. The Premier side trains separate from everyone else.
From what I gather, we’ll all train together and play in preseason matches together. After these matches the coaches will have a good idea on how to distribute the players to which team. Like Senior 1’s, Senior 2’s, and Senior 3’s – Senior 1’s being below the Premier squad. They also have U-19’s, U-21’s, and U-23’s as well.
I’m not sure what is going to happen tomorrow. I’m moving into a room above this Irish bar named “Murphy’s Law” in the morning. They chap said it wouldn’t be ready until Monday, but called me up this morning and said it would be all ready to move in tomorrow. So, unfortunately the club will not be able to provide a place to stay rent free, so I’ll have to chip it away myself. This room above the bar will go for $100 a week. It’s a little weird how rent goes by the week over here. There are 5 other room’s which means 5 other roommates, 2 bathrooms, a lounge, and a kitchen. It has a washing machine, but no dryer. Everyone I’ve seen doesn’t seem to have a dryer. Perhaps that is a luxury around these parts. The room has a bed, a closet, and some shelves. The owner, Tomahou (like Tom-a-hoe) assures me I will be able to find a free TV somewhere. I don’t really care, there’s one in the lounge. I’ve just been reading a lot anyway. There is a library not far away and I can rent stuff out for $2 a piece. I will probably take advantage of that.
Now, here is another option. So I’m leaving training tonight and one guy stops me to ask if I’m looking for a flat. He’s looking for a flat mate. I believe there are 2 of them, and I would make three. Of course, these guys are teammates, which would be good to stay with, and the rent would be $90 a week. Unfortunately, he had absolutely no time to discuss this matter further, and says we’ll talk more Thursday. So now, I may move in to the bar tomorrow, and then move out again come Friday. If a bed will be provided I will take it into serious consideration. They said the flat is only 2 minutes away from Murphy’s Law.
I spoke to the owner at the bar I’m looking to work at, and he gave me the go ahead to stop by on Thursday so speak about a job. This bar is only about 100 meters down from the pub so work and my flat is a great location for both. The bar and the flat above the bar is only a 10 minutes walk to the pitch and clubhouse, so great location. I guess I’ll figure out everything by Friday.
So taking this all in, I don’t believe I will have regular access to a computer. I will try to borrow one from somewhere at least once a week, even if I have to walk to the home in which I’m staying at now (which isn’t that far). I really don’t mind the walking and running. Figure it’s just keeping me in shape. I’m not looking forward to actually buying my own groceries and fixing my own food. That aspect, at least, has been great during my stay here. Three nice meals a day and all the food has been great. Also, everything, including groceries are so damn expensive. I’m missing my Wal-Mart about now that’s for sure.
So, it may be a few days until I post again. Depending on how much time I have, I may actually blog on my laptop like a journal, then copy/paste it all accordingly online.
Cheers,
"Kia Kaha Kia Maia"
Sunday, February 10, 2008
It made it!
Yes, it made it! And by "it", I mean my luggage.
I received the call around 10am saying the taxi would be here late morning. Finally, around 1pm it arrived, but barely in one piece. Oh yeah, my black bag was fine subtracting the broken zipper. My green duffle-like bag, on the other hand, was wrapped together with tape. One whole side was totally ripped and tape was around the whole bag. Wonderful. Thankfully my belongings inside didn't seem to be damaged.
So after the taxi driver called the airlines back, I had some options. I emptied my bag and gave it back to the taxi driver. They are going to A. see if it can get fixed, which I'm sure it can't and/or B. Buy me a new bag. So I may have a new bag in a week or so. We'll see.
It's been raining all day today, and it seems like it will be raining for the whole week. After my bags arrived, Les and Marie wanted to take me around Wellington and show me around. Like, drive around and show me the different parts of Wellington. I thought this real nice of them. First, we drove to Mount Victoria. It's pretty much on top of a big "hill" as they would call it. It has a GREAT look-out point from the top, and I was told they shot some of the Lord of the Ring in the trees surrounding Mount Victoria. From the look-out point you could see on both sides of this big "hill." One side had the airport and other things. They other side had Wellington city and beyond. You could see the stadium, called Westpac Stadium I believe, and the boardwalk, harbor, beach, and more. Great view! After that we pretty much just drove around showing me all the different areas and what not. It was a good time.
After we got back, I popped a protein shake and went for a short 30 min run even though it was raining. The hills are a b*%&h. Going up it hard enough on the calves and thighs, but going down actually sucks even more. It killed my lower back and it just racks your entire body. But all in all I was just happy I had my clothes and was able to go for a run!
Tomorrow I go around noon to see about a job and place to stay. I may be staying above this pub in a room. One other option is to rent a small apartment with two Scottish lads who are in the same boat as I-looking for a place to stay. You can get these places furnished as well, which would be good. Don't know what they run though :-/ . Les and Marie go to the club every Monday early, so after breakfast I'm going to give them my gear and I'm going to run to the club from their home. Once their I plan to get a good workout in the gym. I'm actually starting to feel lazy. I think it's starting to show it too. All this sitting around. I'm beginning to get a little bored. So, hopefully that will change this week.
I've been itching to train because as soon as I got here my body clock has been great. It took about 2 days to get my body totally acclimated to the new time. I know why. It's b/c when I got off the plane I had a red bull before practice to keep me awake. After that I went to sleep at a descent time and now I'm on a better schedule than I was on even at home. Asleep by 12, awake by 8:45 every morning. Yeah, I'm surprising even myself.
So anyway, they are haveing speed training tomorrow and I'm going to see if I can join them in the evening for that. For show
I received the call around 10am saying the taxi would be here late morning. Finally, around 1pm it arrived, but barely in one piece. Oh yeah, my black bag was fine subtracting the broken zipper. My green duffle-like bag, on the other hand, was wrapped together with tape. One whole side was totally ripped and tape was around the whole bag. Wonderful. Thankfully my belongings inside didn't seem to be damaged.
So after the taxi driver called the airlines back, I had some options. I emptied my bag and gave it back to the taxi driver. They are going to A. see if it can get fixed, which I'm sure it can't and/or B. Buy me a new bag. So I may have a new bag in a week or so. We'll see.
It's been raining all day today, and it seems like it will be raining for the whole week. After my bags arrived, Les and Marie wanted to take me around Wellington and show me around. Like, drive around and show me the different parts of Wellington. I thought this real nice of them. First, we drove to Mount Victoria. It's pretty much on top of a big "hill" as they would call it. It has a GREAT look-out point from the top, and I was told they shot some of the Lord of the Ring in the trees surrounding Mount Victoria. From the look-out point you could see on both sides of this big "hill." One side had the airport and other things. They other side had Wellington city and beyond. You could see the stadium, called Westpac Stadium I believe, and the boardwalk, harbor, beach, and more. Great view! After that we pretty much just drove around showing me all the different areas and what not. It was a good time.
After we got back, I popped a protein shake and went for a short 30 min run even though it was raining. The hills are a b*%&h. Going up it hard enough on the calves and thighs, but going down actually sucks even more. It killed my lower back and it just racks your entire body. But all in all I was just happy I had my clothes and was able to go for a run!
Tomorrow I go around noon to see about a job and place to stay. I may be staying above this pub in a room. One other option is to rent a small apartment with two Scottish lads who are in the same boat as I-looking for a place to stay. You can get these places furnished as well, which would be good. Don't know what they run though :-/ . Les and Marie go to the club every Monday early, so after breakfast I'm going to give them my gear and I'm going to run to the club from their home. Once their I plan to get a good workout in the gym. I'm actually starting to feel lazy. I think it's starting to show it too. All this sitting around. I'm beginning to get a little bored. So, hopefully that will change this week.
I've been itching to train because as soon as I got here my body clock has been great. It took about 2 days to get my body totally acclimated to the new time. I know why. It's b/c when I got off the plane I had a red bull before practice to keep me awake. After that I went to sleep at a descent time and now I'm on a better schedule than I was on even at home. Asleep by 12, awake by 8:45 every morning. Yeah, I'm surprising even myself.
So anyway, they are haveing speed training tomorrow and I'm going to see if I can join them in the evening for that. For show
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Petoneman
Today was along day indeed.
It was the annual Petoneman race. A couple members of the club wanted me to do it, but seeing as I had none of my belongings I decided to opt out. After eating breakfast we head to the clubhouse around 11. When I arrived I went on a mission for pictures. I took pics of the clubhouse, practice pitch, and the rec grounds (game pitches). After this, I decided to walk to Jackson street (the main street with all the shops and whatnot). After about an hour and a half, I returned to the Petoneman starting line. The race was just getting started.
Some time passed and Wayne asked me to go to the transition point with him and their club camera man to take pictures. This is where the bikers drop off their bikes for the 2nd running stage. I sat around there for a bit and I wished at this point I had some sneakers. This running stage began uphill and looked tough, but it wasn't on the road. It was a trail run(or as they would say it "in the bush") , which looked really cool.
We made our way back to the club house (starting line) to hang out there. I then went inside the clubhouse to proceed calling the airlines again about my luggage to no avail. I gave up. I hung out outside and waited for everyone to finish the race. Finally they cracked open the beer and began BBQing. By this point a Scotsman arrived with whom I recognized from my first practice. I think there are two Scots who will be playing with Petone. This guys name was Sam. I was releived to have Sam show up. Someone in the same boat as I so he was easy to relate to.
This was the funnest time of the day. Everyone was merry and I had the chance to meet many people. I met the President of New Zealand Rugby named Andy Leslie. He was with Petone before he stepped up to the national job. Another neat person to meet was Ross Filipo. He is the newest member of Petone to be inducted to the New Zealand All Blacks. He was a really nice fellow and was intersted that I was here playing for his club. Our chat was cut short due to the award ceremony beginning. After that, it was just more chatting and drinking. I only had about 4 beers though since they were $2 a piece.
Then it was time to leave. The only solace I got from the airlines today is that I can go spend $100 for supplies and bring the receipt to them and be reimbursed. So I think I'm going to this place called "The Warehouse" to see about finding some training gear and some shoes. Hopefully after that I will be able to go for a run and possibly work out in the gym at the clubhouse. I plan on making one of the hill runs which the guys made today for the race. It's right outside where I'm staying. I can't believe they haven't tracked down my bags yet. This is insane.
Monday I am going to see about a job and a place to stay. They have two bars which are owned by Petone club members who have offered me a job. I looked in the classifieds today about jobs and everything dealing with those jobs seemed a bit out of my experience and ability.
I am getting very upset about my luggage. They have a speed training session on Monday night that I have been invited to but I don't know if I'll be able to make. Also, regular practice on Tuesday and Thursday as well as some chaps playing touch rugby on Wednesday. All I may have to miss due to lack of gear! SOB.
One guy with the club has possibly offered me to go see a Super 14 match, as well as the chance to work with one of their kicking coaches when he comes to the Petone pitch. I hope that all works out!
Anyway, I am so wind burnt and sun burnt it's not funny. So, it's wearing on me and I'm going to lay down for the night. I probably won't blog again until tomorrow night, seeing as how I want to leave the phone line open for if the airlines call during the day about my luggage. Night all
It was the annual Petoneman race. A couple members of the club wanted me to do it, but seeing as I had none of my belongings I decided to opt out. After eating breakfast we head to the clubhouse around 11. When I arrived I went on a mission for pictures. I took pics of the clubhouse, practice pitch, and the rec grounds (game pitches). After this, I decided to walk to Jackson street (the main street with all the shops and whatnot). After about an hour and a half, I returned to the Petoneman starting line. The race was just getting started.
Some time passed and Wayne asked me to go to the transition point with him and their club camera man to take pictures. This is where the bikers drop off their bikes for the 2nd running stage. I sat around there for a bit and I wished at this point I had some sneakers. This running stage began uphill and looked tough, but it wasn't on the road. It was a trail run(or as they would say it "in the bush") , which looked really cool.
We made our way back to the club house (starting line) to hang out there. I then went inside the clubhouse to proceed calling the airlines again about my luggage to no avail. I gave up. I hung out outside and waited for everyone to finish the race. Finally they cracked open the beer and began BBQing. By this point a Scotsman arrived with whom I recognized from my first practice. I think there are two Scots who will be playing with Petone. This guys name was Sam. I was releived to have Sam show up. Someone in the same boat as I so he was easy to relate to.
This was the funnest time of the day. Everyone was merry and I had the chance to meet many people. I met the President of New Zealand Rugby named Andy Leslie. He was with Petone before he stepped up to the national job. Another neat person to meet was Ross Filipo. He is the newest member of Petone to be inducted to the New Zealand All Blacks. He was a really nice fellow and was intersted that I was here playing for his club. Our chat was cut short due to the award ceremony beginning. After that, it was just more chatting and drinking. I only had about 4 beers though since they were $2 a piece.
Then it was time to leave. The only solace I got from the airlines today is that I can go spend $100 for supplies and bring the receipt to them and be reimbursed. So I think I'm going to this place called "The Warehouse" to see about finding some training gear and some shoes. Hopefully after that I will be able to go for a run and possibly work out in the gym at the clubhouse. I plan on making one of the hill runs which the guys made today for the race. It's right outside where I'm staying. I can't believe they haven't tracked down my bags yet. This is insane.
Monday I am going to see about a job and a place to stay. They have two bars which are owned by Petone club members who have offered me a job. I looked in the classifieds today about jobs and everything dealing with those jobs seemed a bit out of my experience and ability.
I am getting very upset about my luggage. They have a speed training session on Monday night that I have been invited to but I don't know if I'll be able to make. Also, regular practice on Tuesday and Thursday as well as some chaps playing touch rugby on Wednesday. All I may have to miss due to lack of gear! SOB.
One guy with the club has possibly offered me to go see a Super 14 match, as well as the chance to work with one of their kicking coaches when he comes to the Petone pitch. I hope that all works out!
Anyway, I am so wind burnt and sun burnt it's not funny. So, it's wearing on me and I'm going to lay down for the night. I probably won't blog again until tomorrow night, seeing as how I want to leave the phone line open for if the airlines call during the day about my luggage. Night all
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Ok, so. Since All my writing got erased last night, I'll repost some of what I wrote.
The 4 1/2 hour flight to L.A. wasn't bad. The only thing I didn't like was that they didn't give complimentary food. What a bummer. My next flight to Sydney, Australia was obviously the worst of the 3. It wasn't that bad, even with it being 14 hours, but it wasn't that comfortable either. I sat in my aisle seat, and thought "score!" because the middle seat was not reserved. So, that would give much more space during the flight. Well, the airline made a mistake with this woman and her child, giving them one seat I guess, so I was asked to more to a different seat so the both of them can take these minee. Well, grudgingly I complied and moved up a row to a seat in between to others. I thought "suuuuuucks." My shoulders were scrunched in pretty much the whole trip. The only good thing about it was it was a row by an exit, so I had all the leg room I wanted.
I arrived in Sydney and had about an hour and 1/2 to spare. I changed my clothes and had a bite to eat. The weather was very nice and sunny and I even got to see this plane named to A380 I think. It's a new double decker plane. Pretty impressive sight.
Anyway, the flight to New Zealand was probably the best. It had the most comfortable seats and the flight was the shortest of the 3. Three hours long. When I arrived I came to find out my luggage had not. Not one bag but both. Good thing I packed a change of clothes in my carry on. So, it took about 30 minutes to find that out, then another hour to wait in line to speak to the baggage claim officer. There were actually about 12 people who were missing baggage as well. By this point, I knew that whoever had come to meet me at the airport had surely split. I go through security and quarantine to find nobody. I call my contact, Wayne, and sure enough he says he was waiting with a sign for about 2 1/2 hours. So he came back to pick me up.
The view coming out of the airport is amazing. Actually, the view from everywhere is amazing. The city sortof wraps around the harbor so all you see are hills and blue water. Crazy. So, by this time it's close to 6 so we get me some food and make our way to the rugby pitch for practice. Their rugby grounds are pretty impressive. They have 4 game pitches and a nice grand stand overlooking them. They have a pretty nice club house with a small indoor training facility and also a small weight gym, changing rooms,offices, etc. At the club house they find me some oversized boots, a size too small shorts, and someone's socks for me to where so I run around a little. The practice was only an hour. Well, it's more like preseason training to get fit. I didn't expect to do everything, and by the way I was really freakin exhausted. I sat out one drill which involved alot of cutting while running seeing as how I could easily twist an ankle in my make shift boots. Then, by the end, I was a little disappointed. My allergies acted up and my eyes swole up a good amount. Obviously my body didn't like something out there. So I had to stop. For the remainder of the night my chest felt real tight and my still a little swollen into the next morning. I really hope it will go away in time or get better. That is not something I need to have while trying to train over here. Here is a picture of their practice pitch:
So today I ran a couple errands with Les and he also brought me by a bank to open an account. Other than that today is quite uneventfull. I really wish I had all my clothes, and especially my running shoes so I could go for a run and at least train. I'm think about going for a walk to the local market to get some food to make sandwiches or something. It's a ways and would probably take a couple hours round trip. Everyone laughed at me because I called all the hills around here mountains. I guess they're hills but this dwarfs a hill in Louisiana. For show.
The 4 1/2 hour flight to L.A. wasn't bad. The only thing I didn't like was that they didn't give complimentary food. What a bummer. My next flight to Sydney, Australia was obviously the worst of the 3. It wasn't that bad, even with it being 14 hours, but it wasn't that comfortable either. I sat in my aisle seat, and thought "score!" because the middle seat was not reserved. So, that would give much more space during the flight. Well, the airline made a mistake with this woman and her child, giving them one seat I guess, so I was asked to more to a different seat so the both of them can take these minee. Well, grudgingly I complied and moved up a row to a seat in between to others. I thought "suuuuuucks." My shoulders were scrunched in pretty much the whole trip. The only good thing about it was it was a row by an exit, so I had all the leg room I wanted.
I arrived in Sydney and had about an hour and 1/2 to spare. I changed my clothes and had a bite to eat. The weather was very nice and sunny and I even got to see this plane named to A380 I think. It's a new double decker plane. Pretty impressive sight.
Anyway, the flight to New Zealand was probably the best. It had the most comfortable seats and the flight was the shortest of the 3. Three hours long. When I arrived I came to find out my luggage had not. Not one bag but both. Good thing I packed a change of clothes in my carry on. So, it took about 30 minutes to find that out, then another hour to wait in line to speak to the baggage claim officer. There were actually about 12 people who were missing baggage as well. By this point, I knew that whoever had come to meet me at the airport had surely split. I go through security and quarantine to find nobody. I call my contact, Wayne, and sure enough he says he was waiting with a sign for about 2 1/2 hours. So he came back to pick me up.
The view coming out of the airport is amazing. Actually, the view from everywhere is amazing. The city sortof wraps around the harbor so all you see are hills and blue water. Crazy. So, by this time it's close to 6 so we get me some food and make our way to the rugby pitch for practice. Their rugby grounds are pretty impressive. They have 4 game pitches and a nice grand stand overlooking them. They have a pretty nice club house with a small indoor training facility and also a small weight gym, changing rooms,offices, etc. At the club house they find me some oversized boots, a size too small shorts, and someone's socks for me to where so I run around a little. The practice was only an hour. Well, it's more like preseason training to get fit. I didn't expect to do everything, and by the way I was really freakin exhausted. I sat out one drill which involved alot of cutting while running seeing as how I could easily twist an ankle in my make shift boots. Then, by the end, I was a little disappointed. My allergies acted up and my eyes swole up a good amount. Obviously my body didn't like something out there. So I had to stop. For the remainder of the night my chest felt real tight and my still a little swollen into the next morning. I really hope it will go away in time or get better. That is not something I need to have while trying to train over here. Here is a picture of their practice pitch:
After practice I was introduced to Les and Mauri. They are an old retired couple whom which I am staying with until Monday. I'm not the first they have put up, and I believe they have been with the club forever. They are a very nice couple and are taking care of me very well. I think what the plan is on Monday, I might be staying in a room above a pub which is owned by this guy named Tomahoe. I think I may be working there as well. Here is the view from Les and Mauri's home:
So today I ran a couple errands with Les and he also brought me by a bank to open an account. Other than that today is quite uneventfull. I really wish I had all my clothes, and especially my running shoes so I could go for a run and at least train. I'm think about going for a walk to the local market to get some food to make sandwiches or something. It's a ways and would probably take a couple hours round trip. Everyone laughed at me because I called all the hills around here mountains. I guess they're hills but this dwarfs a hill in Louisiana. For show.
Anyway, tomorrow is their annual Petoneman. By the way it is pronounced (Pe-tone-ee-man). It's a social of some sort which I will be able to meet many people, but it is also a fundraiser for the club. It involves a bike/run race. It consists of a 4 KM run, then 15 KM bike ride, then another 4 KM run, then 15 KM bike ride. Wayne wants me to do it but geeez. Without my clothes for one, and two I really don't think I have it in me to finish that. These "hills" are going to take some getting used to. They get pretty freakin steep. So I don't see myself trying it out tomorrow.
Also, after Sunday, I don't know what kind of access I will have to a computer and the internet if I move into that room, so just stay tuned. For show
I made it!
Bah. I arrived and I'm tired. Very tired. I even made some of practice today. My allergies were killing me, and I had none of my clothes b/c none of my luggage made the trip. Why do I sound so upset? Well, basically it's b/c I just wrote one hell of a page on this and it got deleted. So, maybe I will rewrite all of this tomorrow. For now, I must sleep. B/c my body thinks it's Thursday morning 3 am. But over here it's more like Thursday night 10 pm. So, I doubt I will have much to do tomorrow and I will write then. Peace out
-James
-James
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Anxious
It's Super bowl Sunday and my last shift working at Carrabba's. I felt a twang of sadness as I left Steve Laborde's domain, I won't lie. I took my chicken breasts and walked away from my place of employment which I have known for 2 years.
Working at Carrabba's is like a sand pit. It sucks you in and you don't really want to leave. Why is this? I owe it to the people I work with, that is all. Nobody loves to serve food, get stiffed by some asshole, or do side work. But it's that time when you walk away from that asshole, scream behind the wall, and possibly get laughed at by your friends because their stiff was actually worse than yours. Or when it's so dead you try to figure out more ways to piss off Prado.
Maybe it's not the work times. Perhaps it's because it's those times just about everyone at the restaurant can go out and have a great time like everyone is life long friends. If I think about it, I'd say throw all that out. I think it's more like the times when you have certain drunk mico's hugging poles and kicking drinks out of Nick Saucier's hand that really make everything so memorable and hard to get away from this sand pit of a restaurant.
Enough of this. It's not only my last day at work it's also 2 days until I fly out to New Zealand. Cheers goes out to everyone who helped me make this decision. Everyone who has supported me in this great endeavor in which I will no doubt not only learn about a game, but will also learn about myself. An era is over and one begins anew. Am I ready? To quote an old rugby song, "You bet your ass we are."
Working at Carrabba's is like a sand pit. It sucks you in and you don't really want to leave. Why is this? I owe it to the people I work with, that is all. Nobody loves to serve food, get stiffed by some asshole, or do side work. But it's that time when you walk away from that asshole, scream behind the wall, and possibly get laughed at by your friends because their stiff was actually worse than yours. Or when it's so dead you try to figure out more ways to piss off Prado.
Maybe it's not the work times. Perhaps it's because it's those times just about everyone at the restaurant can go out and have a great time like everyone is life long friends. If I think about it, I'd say throw all that out. I think it's more like the times when you have certain drunk mico's hugging poles and kicking drinks out of Nick Saucier's hand that really make everything so memorable and hard to get away from this sand pit of a restaurant.
Enough of this. It's not only my last day at work it's also 2 days until I fly out to New Zealand. Cheers goes out to everyone who helped me make this decision. Everyone who has supported me in this great endeavor in which I will no doubt not only learn about a game, but will also learn about myself. An era is over and one begins anew. Am I ready? To quote an old rugby song, "You bet your ass we are."
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