At the Wintergarden Pavilion was where I decided to have my farewell from New Zealand. Eighteen of my family and friends were there to say ‘goodbye’. Unfortunately there was also the 19th, uninvited guest - Lusi, the tropical cyclone. Luckily we all agreed that she should be ignored. It is sad to know that you will be leaving people who have meant so much to you in your life, but also exciting to be off on a new adventure and chapter.
The Wintergarden Pavilion had a long table set out and once everyone arrived we were quickly offered teas to choose from. I chose the French vanilla tea which smelt and tasted delicious. The high tea stand was full with delicious nibbles, from club sandwiches (chicken and egg variety) on the 3rd tier, scones and almond biscuits on the second tier, and lamingtons and chocolate mini cheese cakes in wafers on the 1st tier. Before we got to tuck into the food the waiters brought around mini salmon wafer cones for us to enjoy. All the food was delicious!
After eating we were able to chat and catch up on all the gossip I had missed out over the last few months. It was a great afternoon and lovely to see all my friends and family. I hope to see you all one last time before I leave, but for now it is time to say 'Auf Wiedersehen' and to practise my German!
Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I'll miss you until we meet again.