Kepler Track

The wind let up at dawn and rainbows were arcing into the lake all morning. Every time we bend down or move too fast we feel wobbly as if we were still on the boat. Loan up and go. Today we hiked a part of the Kepler Track from Rainbow Reach to Shallow Hut and back. We hiked for three hours in the steady rain through miles or ancient beech forest with an under story of ferns and moss--everything in a shade of spring green or brown. The leaves over time have created a path that is soft and cushion like. By the time we got to the water's edge the wind was blowing hard so we took a quick respite and toilet break at the hut. The path was degrading with pools of water and our socks and boots were soggy. By the end, we were soaked through and ready for a hot shower. That last mile I kept thinking of about turkey and stuffing and pecan and pumpkin pies and wine and it made the misery of being cold and wet less os. WE drove into Te Anau and went straight to Mile's Better Pies with the most delicious meat and fruit pies with delicate buttery crusts. Then on to the hostel where we immediately jumped into very hot showers with incredible water pressure--I wanted to stay in there for hours. (I highly recommend the YHA hostel in Te Anau!!) Have I mentioned that I am super glad that I bought a down jacket? I love you rain pants! We are hoping our things will dry out by tomorrow for the next hike. When I was in the shower I heard a big clap of thunder and the skies opened up further and poured and poured. It continues to rain hard and we are settling in for a cup of tea before venturing out to the grocery store--we are down to the things we don't really want to eat. I wish I could have a bit of pecan pie with my tea. Send some good weather vibes our way. Miss you all. L