... from Blenheim to Kaikoura today.. This was by FAR the most beautiful drive. The first part started like all the others, hills, sheep, vineyards, etc.. But then we started driving along the coast. It's really rocky and stark, and reminds me a little of Maine..

But we saw three really amazing things. We saw a lot of mountains with snow caps. I'll just never get tired of that. THEN, we saw this beautiful view of the beach on the left, at about 11 o'clock, and a snow capped mountain on the right, at about 1 o'clock. It just seems so wrong and strange to see both together, but there they were.. And THEN, I just happened to look over the ledge to the coast, and there they were, DOZENS OF SEALS! JUST LAYING THERE!!! So we got out and immediately started snapping pics. Now if we can just see a penguin, we'll be happy campers.. I think I saw a dolphin or two out in the water, but Navarre DEFINITELY saw two jumping up out of the water..

We went into town and signed up for the whale watching tour tomorrow, and we're pretty stoked about that. It's expensive, but seriously, when will we EVER get a chance to go see a sperm whale again? NEVER. That's when..

We also bummed around town and had a great hot meal. There's a beer here called Speight's Old Dark, which is my new favorite. It's dark and malty, but not hoppy at all. Very smooth and drinkable. I LOVE IT!

After whale watching tomorrow, we drive to Christchurch and have our last night in the camper. Navarre's VERY happy about that.

BY THE WAY, I've been trying to email Mom and Dad, so if you guys are reading this, I'm having trouble with my email program.. Entourage doesn't use any of the authentication methods avail on this stupid 'net, so please don't think I'm not talking to you.. Mom, I'm severly bummed about Jimmy's leg.. I hope everything is OK, hug him and Bonz for me.. Also, thank you SO much for looking in on the doggies. I know they appreciate it.. Dad, that's really kewl about Carlos! I'll try to call him, but we'll just be in Christchurch for one day so may not get a chance..

Love you guys! :-)