It's rare to find such people who are dedicated to an idea and execute it with such tenacity. Izzy and Wayde provided the most delicate touches to a reimagined Hobbit home that sits in their backyard on a spacious and beautiful five acres of land.
Punctuated by the gentle baying of a selection of skittish and adorable farm animals (including the decidedly not shy Elsa, a sheep adopted by the couple after it was abandoned at a nearby pub), the experience of sleeping in a place racked with whimsy was exactly what my wife and I needed near the conclusion of our honeymoon in the extraordinary islands of New Zealand.
The breakfast we received, a careful selection of mini hotcakes, fresh rolls, cheese, butter, honey, and raspberry jam (possibly called jelly for those not in the US, still unclear about that), was presented in a wicker basket and covered with cloths waiting to be unveiled like a box of treasures.
After our bellies were full, we were led to the animals to feed them, especially the very sweet but very insistent Elsa, while Wayde spoke to us about their journeys to becoming part of New Zealand.
Then his precocious son helped give us a tour of the ever-growing garden and the chicken coops. Apparently after they take the eggs from them, the chickens lay their eggs in hidden spots to try and trick them, making an unusual game of breakfast some mornings.
We parted with happy words and left feeling like we got to know a family and their dreams in a beautiful place. Thank you both for your hospitality, your aesthetics, and your kindnesses.