Wednesday 15th March – 22:08pm – haven’t updated the journal in a while so thought id catch up…

Since the last entry I’ve been working flat out. Somehow I managed to work 50+ hours for two weeks in a row, meaning my bank account was happy, but my body wasn’t. Along with working a lot I have been training twice a week with the Upper Clutha Rams, and am looking forward to my debut in a pre-season friendly coming up. They have planned an ‘away day’ a few hours away, in Kurow, where we will play their first team, then have a big night out, sleep in a dorm, then the next day play golf and drive back – sounds ideal.

I’m currently torn between signing up for camp, or staying here until my visa runs out. I am in love with the idea of being in America again, but i’m starting to love it here too. Wanaka is great, the rugby team is full of so many good lads, and I really enjoy the job. It’s tearing me apart, and the upcoming deadline is annoying me everyday.

I wish I could update the journal with more interesting stuff, but at the moment I have just been working and sleeping!

Today was my day off but I offered to come in and stack wood for some extra money, which turned out to be just what I needed. I was given food throughout the day, and earned well over $100 to listen to music and move wood all day.

I have been picked to start at 10 in the pre-season friendly this weekend, which I’m both nervous and excited for. There are some strong first fives in the team, and I really need to prove myself!

Ive been trying to save as much as possible, but with the multiple visas and expenses its not going exactly as planned. Ive currently got $1000 but that wont last long, what with the CCUSA Visa fees and the travel to and from Auckland for my visa consulate appointment.

Last weekend we went for a night out in Wanaka, which was a great laugh. I ended up sleeping in Keiran and Marley’s van, then we drove back early in the morning for work. It was tough but worth it. I like Wanaka, and really want to go out there as much as possible.

With 10 weeks left, I need to make a decision about camp !!