Halloween

 Yet another set of outfits for another event.  Fun!

 

Halloween Start

 So fun to see Rania and her friends in Halloween dress-up for some events. 

 

Lake Michigan Sunrise

 With the season changing, the sunrise comes a bit later, allowing Rania a chance to capture the sunrise on a Wednesday morning. 

 

Fall Colors

 Pretty wonderful to see such stunning beauty in nature. 

 

 

Return

 Just after midnight, with a red-eye back, we left for Kuala Lumpur.  Definitely a lot of love for New Zealand after such an incredible week. 

 

South Bend Theater

 Gabi and Jack got to get out of the university area to enjoy a time together at the theater.  

 

KL Reunion in Chicago

 How wonderful when Eva's parents came into town and took the time to connect with Ana and Rania from just down the road. 

 

Chicago Institute of Art

 Rania got to visit the Chicago Institute of Art on Saturday - an incredible jewel of cultural excellence. 

 

Kitekite Falls

 With so many incredible places just within a few kilometers of each other, it was really stunning to get to see such a beautiful river and waterfall at Kitekite falls - the aquamarine water of the river is really magical.  

 

North Piha Beach

 Incredible to get to be at North Piha Beach just as some sort of surfing competition was taking place.  It isn't often you get to go to a black sand beach - and it was truly a very stunning beach.  So reminiscent of the Oregon coast - except for all the volcanic activity that makes for the black sand. 

So cool!

 

Piha

 What a stunning hike just over an hour out of Auckland around the coast.  Such stunning coastline and definitely some steep dropoffs!

Needless to say, while the trail was incredibly wide and safe, there were some crazy drop-offs and certainly not a Nancy -approved trail!

 

Pyramids?

 Strange (and fun) formations in the dorm room at night.  Some impressive balance. 

Ngongotaha Valley Hike

 On our way out of town, we went for a nice hike out of the city - it was a nice little loop - though unfortunately, Reeve's knee was getting tight and sore, so he rested at one place to take the shortcut back.  

It was nice being out hiking and enjoying a forest experience. 

 

More Kirau Park

 Lots more pictures from a stunning location!