Middle Temple in the sunshine
So August was a fairly big month… just the little matter of moving continents! The first half of August was all about making the most of my last two weeks in London, while the second half was all about enjoying seeing my family and friends, and getting to be on or near a beach every single day. So good! Check out all my adventures below, and a few first thoughts about becoming a repat at the end.
Farewell drinks with some of my awesome colleagues
Loving the gorgeous purple blooms at Mayfield Lavender Farm
One for the bucket list – coffee in a former public loo!
Most popular Instagram of August:
Beautiful St Dunstan In The East – bombed in WWII and now a sanctuary for office workers
Just me and my favourite building in London <3
Had to fit in a last couple of family visits to beautiful Abergavenny (above) and Newbury!
Summer drinks in the Geffrye Museum pop-up allotment garden
Home <3 Morning views along Cheltenham Beach, 3 minutes from my new (temporary) house.
New members of the family at my parents’ farm
Joe organised an amazing surprise welcome home dinner with so many of my friends – so lovely!
I know I’m home when I get to see the All Blacks win at Eden Park!
Signs of spring – a beautiful magnolia tree
And more signs – although tucked away in the Wintergardens Greenhouse!
Even the Auckland showers are pretty!
Repat Diaries: The First Two Weeks
I’ve loved: seeing my family and friends, being by the sea, exploring Auckland with fresh eyes
I’ve struggled with: the cold! Although it is a much milder winter than I ever had in London (10-15C during the day), the houses in New Zealand are not generally as well-insulated – I miss double-glazing and radiators!
I’ve noticed: how friendly everyone is. From thanking bus drivers to genuine and chatty shop assistants, it feels like everyone is very warm and genuine. It’s a lovely thing to notice about my home-town!
What is your favourite thing about your home-town?
Linking up for #WanderfulWednesday with Marcella, Lauren, Van and Isabel – check out their travel link-up and their fantastic blogs using the links!