I’m in McDonald’s…

...it’s different here I promise. I’m not saying it’s healthier than back home—in fact, my Lonely Planet guidebook has blamed an influx of fast food for increasing problems with obesity and poor health here in New Zealand (sound familiar?)—but, it is NICER. First of all, there are flat-screen-TVs playing David Bowie music videos throughout. There’s even one near the play area so you can watch your kids AND David at the same time.

Did I come here for a supersized fries or maybe because I was cosmically driven towards the perpetually sexy pop icon and Labyrinth star? No, I’m here because in my quest for free Wi-Fi in Wellington, one name pervades. McDonald’s. I was unaware of this development. After a quick google, I discovered that it’s also happening in the states. So, keep an eye open if you’re looking for a wireless hook up. And if you're curious, I ordered a small coke.

During a conversation last week I think I offended some Kiwis when I quickly shot down their implication that I might like Micky-D’s. One could even say I scoffed. Arrogantly. So, in the interest of cultural exchange (roll eyes here), I thought I’d give it a try and see if the atmosphere could inspire my second blog post. It seems to have done the trick.

While writing the above paragraphs, David Bowie has transformed into Taylor Swift! There is something for everyone here. There’s even an orchid (fine, it’s probably fake, but still) over the pastry counter (yes, PASTRY COUNTER).

So, if you talk to someone from overseas and they engage you in a conversation about McDonald’s, just remember, it's different here.

-Ellie

PS: I apologize for the lack of pictures. I've tried to upload images for each of these first posts but for some reason they won't upload. Not sure how to fix this but I'll work on it.

Committing to the backwards roll

Wellington, NZ

You’ve found me! Welcome to “In an Octopus’s Garden,” version 2.0. This blog initially appeared as a chronicle of my second summer at Woods Hole as a Summer Student Fellow (SSF) and is now accessible through the WHOI SSF website. I'm now a graduate student in the Joint Program with WHOI/MIT.

I arrived tonight in Wellington, New Zealand as a Fulbright grant recipient. This is the first of what I hope to be many entries this year.

The clearest analogy I can conjure to describe my state of mind is from my limited experience SCUBA diving. I was certified in the spring of last year in Madagascar while volunteering with the British NGO Reef Doctor. One of the most challenging aspects of my dive training was getting used to the backwards roll—laugh all you will, it was a challenge for me. For those of you unfamiliar, the backwards roll is one of a few ways you can enter the water from a dive boat. First you perch, seated, on the edge of the boat in full gear—mask on, regulator in your mouth, tank strapped on and hanging off the side of the boat (abs flexed so as not to tumble backwards). Yes, it’s uncomfortable. With your back to the sea, you try to breathe normally, and on the boat captain’s count you roll backwards to hit the water with your feet up. In Madagascar, our boat captain Manjo would give a forceful “One….Two….Three…… Go!” The “Go” always came out very short, a little late, and quite abrupt, propelling us off the boat and into the water.

There are a few long seconds of disorientation before you right yourself and find the surface again. I found this to be scary. But as with all things, it’s less scary if you truly commit to it and embrace its necessity.

On Sunday night, I gathered with friends at my favorite bar near MIT in Cambridge, and celebrated my send-off. Starting on Monday afternoon, my five flights and many, many hours of travel represented a form of prolonged backwards roll. To come is a scary but brief disorientation. And, as is the case with every SCUBA experience I’ve had, the initial hurdle of tossing myself into the water will be followed by exploration, adventure, and wonderment.

The next couple entries will detail my impressions upon arrival, give you background into the research I plan to do while here and give you a chance to get to know me better.

I am so excited to share my experiences with you—both personal and scientific—throughout this journey.

One....Two....Three............

-Ellie