Rachel's 15th Birthday -- Part Two

Rachel's birthday ended up being the most beautiful day (weather-wise) that we've had in New Zealand so far...clear, sunny, and unseasonably warm.  To be truthful, though, every day here is unseasonably warm compared to Utah winters.

The drive to Gravity Canyon was quaint and charming.

This narrow bridge led to the last stretch of road heading to Gravity Canyon.  You can't tell from the photo, but it was at least a hundred-foot drop on either side...harrowing!

Gravity Canyon...equally stunning and terrifying!!!  For those who are brave enough to jump, it's an 80 meter (263 foot) fall.  

Cameron was pretty bummed to learn that he wouldn't be eligible to jump or swing.  He didn't meet the weight requirement for the jump by quite a bit, but he was almost heavy enough to swing.  We promised him that if he reaches the minimum weight required before we leave next year, we'll bring him back.

I was plenty heavy enough for either activity.  I finally decided to swing (50 meter drop), which meant I would go last.  Steve and the girls geared up... I love this photo of them ready to go.

Would you believe that the girls went first?!!  They were afraid that if they saw someone jump before them, they might want to back out.  My heart was racing seeing my babies standing on the edge of that platform.  We're so proud of them!  

Here's something that didn't make it to Facebook --- video!! 

Steve has nerves of steel.  He stepped up there, extended his arms, and jumped like an old pro.  When he came back up, the guys said, "Nice form, mate!  You've done this before!"  He surprised them by saying it was his first jump.  

 

When I started walking the narrow bridge out to that platform, I gained an even higher level of respect for the girls and Steve!  I didn't even realize I was doing it, but I started practicing the breathing exercises I used to teach in childbirth classes.  If I thought my heart was beating fast at watching my family, now I felt that it might leap right out of my chest.  As scary as it was, though, I wish I had jumped instead, but the "drop" was pretty exhilarating.

 

Confession:  Part of the reason I wish I had jumped instead is because then my crazy, embarrassing facial expressions wouldn't have been so visible.  :)

We drove home feeling like rockstars, and finished off the day with a little cake and ice cream.  Happy Birthday, Rachel!!