At last our dogs have arrived and what an immeasurable sensation it was to see them again. After scampering between various offices within Auckland International Airport to acquire the right stamps and signatures of approval, we were finally allowed to see them. We
hadn’t quite completed the processes when a door opened and there was
Renner, pulling at the leash attempting to go somewhere, anywhere, just get me
outa here! Then she saw me and got really excited…..for a second……then headed to the grass areas for the first of many comfort stops. Poor girl. I felt even worse for Phil who was denied this first opportunity to be with
Renner because he got called in to the office to pay the final ‘fee’. While one of the quarantine folks walked
Renner, I went and got
Flinders, who was equally as oblivious to everything, just wanted the grass area. Phil eventually came out of the office and we were all reunited and free to leave. After one fit of running up the road and back to the car, we headed off for home, the dogs hanging out of the window with all of the new smells to inhale. Tiredness took its toll, and eventually they fell asleep. At home they were so tired, there was little else to do except let them recover from their travelling ordeal, and sleep. The next morning they were different dogs completely, all rested and revved up they were crazy and full of energy bouncing from Phil to me and back again, not knowing which way to run or turn, so just running everywhere and barking with glee. It was so comforting and reassuring to see after the previous nights lack lustre reunion.So, they are now settling in very well.
Renner loves the creek and all the puddles that are around. We take them for little walks each night to try and get them used to the fact that the creek is only to be visited with Phil and I around as it can flood with rain, going from several centimetres to about one and a half metres deep of raging water. They run through the tall green grass as if it brings them great pleasure and cool relief. I know it does for me.
You will never plough a field if you only turn it over in your mind.(Irish Proverb)
There's nothing like the family to make things real. A recent visit by mother was what made this adventure in New Zealand become confirmed to my senses that this is now where I live and work. Showing her around as a proud local helped me feel that I do live here and I do relate to new environment in a familiar and comfortable way. My mum and cousin ,Shirley, spent almost two weeks with us and we tried to get out and look around as much as we could despite both Phil and I working for much of the time. We saw the local area as well as making the pilgrimage down to Waitomo Caves to see the glow worms. Overall, it was nice but brief time. I am hoping to be making regular future visits to Auckland airport to meet my mum and enjoy the warmth of my family.
