Sombreros and dancing. Two things Katie tends to stay away from. But once in a fortnight (ha...wrong use of the word but I laugh because Kiwis use it heaps), the moonlight shines in just the right way and before you know it, I've taught ten people how to merengue and I'm wearing not one, but two sombreros. The 21st arrived at last...it started good and was wonderful all night through. Woke up to sunny blue skies, a warm 70 degrees or so. After heading off to class (yes I do actually do that here), I arrived back at my flat to find my friends had taken all of my stuff and arranged it into the shape of a person. Next to this little critter (whom made me jump) was an Ipod and a sign that said, "Happy Birthday, Katie. Press Play." None other than "Celebrate" came on...needless to say, I felt loved. Spent the afternoon on a hike, and of course, indulged in the ice cream (Kiwis know how to make their ice cream by the way.) Big plans for a BBQ came through and what began as a few people turned into about 30 or 40 (sorry not good at counting when drunk!). The pic above is rather representative of my state...laughing hysterically much of the night (thanks to my pals who wrote the funniest poem about our adventures etc).

I managed to rise to the challenge and stay on my own two feet most of the evening...accepted the drinks as they came...and yes, a list was made to document each drink. (you'll be pleased to note I squeezed in the 21 drinks without bowing to the toilet at any point in the evening). We spent some time at the Bath Street Bar - which hosts a great reggae scene on Tuesday nights.
It seemed strange turning 21 in New Zealand, but I have to admit it was one of the best birthdays I've had. Between my friends here and all the calls and emails I received from back home, I definitely felt the love.
At one point in the night I just looked around thinking how crazy it is - you can know people for just a short time yet feel so at home with them. That's how my 21st was. absolutely perfect. and a riot at that.