Grace's "There and Back Again" DAY 1

Hannah picked up Grace from the airport this morning. I was not there, but from what I heard - people were smiling at their sisterly-love while they hugged each other for 10 minutes! I think any longer, they might have to be escorted out of the airport by the security :P

Grace and Hannah reached Waiheke by 11:45am, and they were among the thousands of tourists who flocked to the island to welcome the New Year. Thus, the usual idyllic island becomes very crowded! Hannah and I had planned to bring Grace to Auckland city to have a drink and welcome the new year. However, looking at the craziness, we decided to stay on the island, have a BBQ, drink some beer, just relax and get ready for our road trip tomorrow.

We got steak and beer from the local supermarket. Our friend, Janis joined us as well. After BBQ, we chilled out ... the girls playing "SET", listened to Jazz music, Grace trying to stay awake from the jet-lag, until midnight came when we made her open the "champagne" much to her delight and also apprehension.

Summer ale... perfect drink for the day

Grace "double-fisting" drinks

Janis, Hannah and Grace

Happy new year... and tomorrow, the journey begins.