There is an amazing attitude of generosity in the people we’ve encountered thus far. People from all walks of life and various income levels, most struggling financially and some with excess to spare. Though our hosts seem to understand our desire to save money this year, their generosity has far exceeded what is necessary and definitely what we’re used to. Our hosts have offered us amazing experiences and gifts, in addition to inviting us into their lives and feeding and housing us. It has been refreshing and somewhat overwhelming to receive.

In the US, admiration is given without expecting anything in return. More than once here, a compliment on a possession has been returned with a simple, “Well, do you want it?” People have been totally serious in offering us their things without the slightest hesitation. It is humbling.

Amazing Mexican meal home-cooked when our hosts learned that we missed it from home
Golf clubs for Cole
Gas money for helping a host move

Cross-stitch patterns, bartending book, art supplies and supplements are among the amazing things we’ve been offered by our generous wwoofing hosts.

Some of my favorite words say it best.

“…I want to surprise myself. I want to learn about the world. I want to grow up and be generous and big hearted, the way people have been with me.” -Friday Night Lights

I hope and pray that I will grow in my big-heartedness, that I will have the capacity to give to others in new and creative ways, just as I have been shown. This kind of generosity is something I didn’t expect to learn here and has taken me by humble surprise. New Zealand, I am grateful.

Learning to pay it forward. Join me?

WHAT WE’RE LIKING AT THE MOMENT:
> Homeopathy and the availability of natural remedies everywhere.
> Tire pressure gauges. An all-in-one inflation valve + gauge, so only 1 tool is required. Genius.
> Composting. Feels like we’re wasting less.
> No tipping. Pay what the menu price is.
> Roundabouts. Better than stop signs any day.