A very busy day

Not a bad night for me and Jon manged to sleep till about 4.00 and then just dozed till he got up at 6.30ish Not sure if the lavendaer helped or not.

Once Jon had gone to work I got stuck in to doing my housework and getting the washing done and hung out. We had a good breeze so good drying weather.

I did some housework and then took Tot out for her walk. She can be such a pain sometimes and really does not want to walk but she, and I, need the exercise!! We managed to get down to the main road and then back around the block which is a twenty minute walk so not too bad.

I then went out to the post office to send a parcel of baby clothes to my friend in Auckland. I bought a coffee from the bakery and took it home. It certainly wasn't the best coffee I have had here and needed a bit of sugar to make it palatable and I don't usually have sugar. Never mind you have to try these things!!

I carried on with my housework and got it all done by lunch time and then had a bite to eat and an episode of Neighbours before getting on with making the beds for the girls.

I had a call from Bay of Plenty Health Authority today just checking Jon's detail and asking where he was born. Mevagissey, Cornwall was a bit too much for her I think and she just said is that the UK!!!!!

Our new neighbours are very quiet and unlike the people who moved out of that house they don't smoke so are not always on their deck which overlooks our bedroom so I always felt uncomfortable when I went into the bedroom when the curtains are open and was considering buying net curtains, we'll see how it goes.

I needed to do my nails and as it gets dark early and this house is not the lightest I started to do them and they took me over an hour. Taking off the old gel polish is what takes the time. At least this time they set properly and look good and I won't have to do anything again for about two weeks so it is worth it.

I also spent the day tracking the girls flight but the Dubai airport site is really slow an very frustrating. Hard to believe all I have done today and Jane and Heather are still sitting on a plane. I am sure they will have a good flight as Emirates are good and they are flying on the new double decker plane.

My friend Janice called to have a chat and then it was time to do the ironing and re make our bed after changing the sheets.

I made a chicken lasagne this evening for dinner tomorrow. It looks and tastes good but not sure the girls will like it as it might be 'too healthy' for them as it has spinach in!

Jon and I had fish for dinner with sweet chill and although it had a bit of a kick it was very good.

I finished my ironing while watching TV and now it is bedtime. The Sydney airport site is not showing the girls flight yet but we can check it in the morning and hopefully it will arrive on time.

WEATHER
Overcast for most of the day, some sunny spells 21 degrees.

A lovely lie in!

I woke at 7.00 and as it was so cosy I went back to sleep and suddenly it was 8.30!!! Not so for Jon, he had been awake for a long time and so had got up.

Heather called this morning and it was good for her to speak to Jon as he has not been able to talk to the girls but after speaking to Jane and Kirsty yesterday it was good for him to talk to Heather. I really don't think Heather will ever be able to travel lightly she seems to pack for England even though we have a washing machine here!!

We took Tot out for her walk and noticed a car parked outside our house which had bald tyres and no up to date registration or WOF (MOT) notice on the window. Inside, the car was full of rubbish, McDonald's bags and containers and drink cans and all in all it looked like it could have been abandoned. The owner from next door was cutting the grass ready for the new tenants to move in today and Jon asked him if he knew anything about the car and he said no but 'good luck with the council as they won't want to know'. Hopefully it does belong to somebody.

We went down to the local garden centre for a coffee and saw some lovely purple, ankle length gummies and Jon thought Jane would like them for the garden - I am not so sure!!

We got back and read the Sunday papers and I made a list of meals to have when the girls are here and will need to go to the supermarket later. I made beans on toast for lunch and Jon spent time sorting out his wardrobe and throwing out old clothes.

I went down to the supermarket and did the shopping and when I got back Jon made a cuppa and I got stuck in to making chilli con carne to put in the fridge for one of our meals. I also cooked a very nice dish with the rabbit we bought yesterday. Jon is finding big pieces of meat hard to cope with so I am trying to find some tasty meals that he will enjoy and he did enjoy the rabbit but I don't think we should tell Jane and Kirsty that we have eaten rabbit in view of the fact that they have two pet rabbits each!!

We took Tot out for a walk before it got dark and the abandoned car had gone so I imagine it must have belonged to a friend of our new neighbour and they were helping them to move in!!!!

I am getting really excited about seeing the girls on Tuesday and have a busy day tomorrow with more cooking for the freezer and getting their rooms ready. Heather has already asked me to make lemon squares so will need to do them tomorrow.

I have put the oil burner with lavender in our bedroom again tonight as Jon is really struggling now with lack of sleep. I think I might try chamomile tea tomorrow if he will take it.

WEATHER
Overcast for most of the day 19 degrees

No Saturday lie in!

We were both awake and up early again today and once awake you might as well get up!

Jane phoned and we had a long chat and Jon is quite tickled to listen to Jane talking about her 'tomato plants' - who would have thought it - go Jane.

As soon as Jane finished Kirsty called and we had another long chat. We have told Kirsty that there is no point in her coming down as Jon will be going to Hamilton every day for six weeks from mid May so it would be a waste of her time and there is nothing she can do and WE are all fine with that.

We were just about to take Tot out and it started to rain and looked very grey and we thought it was in for the day.

We went over to one of our favourite coffee shops and by the time we got there the sun was shinning and we were able to sit outside!

We then went to look for dinner tonight and found it hard to decide what we wanted to eat and settled on flounder for dinner tonight and rabbit for tomorrow - I can't remember the last time we had rabbit!

We got home and took Tot out for a long walk and then came back and had lunch and then Jon spent the rest of the afternoon in the garden and I watched TV and did the ironing.

Our neighbours moved out last night and the new neighbours move in tomorrow so the owner and his wife have been there cleaning up. I hope the new people are nice.

We took Tot out for her second walk after we had our afternoon cuppa.

I felt sooo tired this evening and could quite happily have gone to bed. Since I have had dinner I get my second wind and wake up.

I phoned my sister and we had a chat which was nice. She is off to a family bbq for her grandson's first birthday but she told me the weather was not good for a bbq.

Off to bed now and hopefully I won't wake up too early tomorrow!!

WEATHER
Mixed bag today with some showers 21 degrees.

A day at the Red Cross is never dull!

Well our good sleep didn't happen we are both so tired but sleep is not happening and Jon is feeling it more than I am.

Jon had breakfast and left for work and Heather called to have a chat as she won't get another chance before they leave on Sunday. I couldn't speak long as I had to leave for the Red Cross so poor Tot didn't get her morning walk.

I really enjoy my time at the shop and can actually forget, for some of the time, what is happening which is good. We haven't got a lot of stock at the moment as 'the powers that be' seem to think we need to sell what we have before they will release more and who are we to argue. It will be so nice when Bianca come back from maternity leave as we didn't have any problems when she was manager.

A lady brought two huge boxes of strawberry plants in for us so we put them at the front of the shop with a stack of bags and people just help themselves.

I went across to get coffee for Les and I, Sharon drinks green tea, and we had some shortbread and they both enjoyed it and Les said that is what shortbread should be like so praise indeed.

I chatted to a lovely lady who has moved here from California but I think must be a Mexican as she was very dark. She told me how much she likes coming to our shop and looking for bargains. I don't think she buys all her clothes there though as she was very smart and wore lots of diamonds!!

The temporary manager came in for a 'meeting' with us. She told us that $300 was missing from the till last Friday and asked if we knew where it could have gone. We have all worked on a Friday for a long time, me the longest which is over three years so I am sure it is not us. We think it is an administration problem with the cashing up but she says not and thinks it might be the people who hold the key for us from the bar down the road. she might be right but we really don't think it is them. Anyway, she says they may have to get the police involved. I think they need to review what they do with the cash at the end of the day more than anything. Watch this space!

I left the shop and went to have my hair cut. My hairdresser, Dana, has just moved to a new salon and only managed to get some of her clients numbers as the salon owner locked the computer once she handed her notice in. She was fed up working in her old place as she was on her own and the owner was a very grumpy young woman and never smiled. I would not have been happy if I had turned up for my next appointment to find a new hairdresser so I was pleased that she had my number and was able to call me. She is now in a lovely salon in the centre of Tauranga so easier for me to get to and my next haircut will be half price as I have stayed with her! I even got a lovely pot of filter coffee and a chocolate while having my hair done.

I got home and had a cup of tea and then took Tot out for a long walk.

Jon came home at 6.00 with more of the new variety of gold Kiwi fruit. We get them from the daughter of the owner who has an orchard and these are a new variety and resistant to the dreadful PSA disease that is causing so many problems and many growers are having to pull out the vines. I am not fond of the gold Kiwi fruit as they are a bit too sweet for me but this variety is very nice and a little tart.

Jon went out for our usual fish and chips and the fish was particularly good tonight.

We watched some TV and Jon went off for an early night and hopefully will sleep. I can hear some loud music and not sure where it is coming from but it is very unusual for NZ as people don't party late into the night.

WEATHER
Overnight rain so a cloudy start followed by heavy showers during the morning then a sunny afternoon 21 degrees

I think we might sleep better tonight!!!

We both had such a bad night's sleep and were glad when it was a sensible time to get up.

We left for the hospital at 8.20 and after making our way through the heavy school traffic and finding a space to park at the hospital arrives at the outpatients at 8.45. We sat down for a few minutes and we were then called through to wait in the corridor near the doctors office and we waited and waited. We were then shown into his office and we waited some more. We could hear him discussing things with a doctor but we still waited and we were both nearly sick with nerves.

It was only 25 minutes but seemed like forever before he came in. He told us that the good news was that the second tumour, 30cm in, was not malignant but would need to be removed as it is large and could turn malignant. He then went on to discuss the surgery and Jon told him he was really not happy with having a stoma and would do anything rather than have it. Mark, consultant, said that was good that he knew as he needs to consider all the options available. He told us of a procedure that has been carried out in France with a lot of success but it is a bit complicated to explain on here but it would mean Jon would only need a stoma for three months until things healed. The one drawback is possible incontinence but the results are good and people have not had too many problems. It has only been done a few times in NZ but Mark seems to think it is a good option and Jon REALLY thinks it is a good option!!! Mark did say that he would probably be able to tell before the surgery if it was going to be possible but if during the surgery he found anything he would have the right to do the stoma in order to get a good result and Jon has agreed to this.

He then spoke about the radiotherapy and got one of the nurses to call Waikato to ask about our appointment which they did and told us it is on 8 May at 9.30 and they will be able to fill us in on more of the radiotherapy treatment. Mark said they have decided the six week course will be the better option as this gives the tumour more time to shrink and will result in better surgery. It does, of course, mean that I will need to get him across to Hamilton and back every week day for six weeks.
The road, over the Kaimai Hills, can be very nasty in the winter and as it goes up so high is prone to fog but hopefully the six weeks will be over before the real winter sets in. If it does get too much Jon can stay in the lodge over there.

We talked about the wedding dates and he worked out that if Jon starts treatment in mid May he will finish it by end of June and can then have another MRI in mid July to see how much it has shrunk. Surgery usually happens six weeks after radiotherapy but he says another couple of weeks will not make a difference and so he will leave surgery till after our UK trip. I am very pleased about this as I was worried about the effect of a long haul flight on Jon after surgery. It means we will have to change our dates and get back straight after the wedding to have surgery at the end of August or first week in September but that is not a problem and Jon has called the travel agent and asked him to sort it out. We will probably have four days in KL on the way and one night stopover on the way back to break the journey.
I saw a big change come over Jon during the appointment and he visibly relaxed and when we came out 30 minutes later we were both like different people. I really did not think we would come out feeling so positive but we do and we have to remain like this. I know he has a long way to go and there will still be bad days ahead and the consultant said it will be a major operation but he feels Jon is young enough and fit enough to come out of it well so that is what we have to concentrate on.

I told the consultant that having the surgery in September was good as it would give Jon enough time to be well for Jane's wedding in May!!

We came out and went and sat in some lovely sunshine and had a coffee until Jon got too hot and we had to leave!

Jon took me home and then he went to work. I got stuck in to emailing everyone with the good news and had a lovely Skype call to my friend Cathy in Atlanta, Georgia.

I went down into Tauranga and saw Les and Sharon at the Red Cross and told them the news but they could see from my face that things were better.

When I got back I made some shortbread to take in to the RC tomorrow as Les is always saying the shortbread here is too sweet and being a Scot she loves shortbread so I made her some.

Jon was home early as I had booked for us to go out to an Italian for dinner tonight and we had a really good meal, too much to eat so I brought it home for my lunch tomorrow.

Jon has gone to bed early and hopefully we can both have a good night which will be the first for a month!!

WEATHER
Sun, cloud followed by rain tonight 21 degrees

A really enjoyable bank holiday

When we got up this morning we were in no rush to go out as we thought everything would be closed as it usually is on Anzac Day.

Jon enjoyed watching the football 'live' a rare thing and especially on a Wednesday and Chelsea won!!

I made us a cooked breakfast and then we took Tot out for a walk and managed to go on the long one. We got back to the house and the landlord of the house next door was painting the fence and introduced himself to us and we had a chat, he seems to be a very nice man and not as old as my neighbour made him out to be or maybe I just misunderstood her.

We then went down to The Mount in the hope of finding a cafe open. I noticed the Good Food Shop had cars in the car park so we went round and it was open. We had a lovely lemon and blueberry muffin and some really good coffee.

We then carried on to the Mount Main Beach to the cenotaph as I wanted to see the wreaths that had been placed at the dawn service. They were really lovely and smelt very nice. We walked along the front and decided to walk around the Mount which was lovely as it was so sunny and warm. We met Ross, Sandra and their son Branson and had a chat. We got back at about 1.00 and decided to have lunch at one of the bars along the front.

I had a mini salmon and pesto quiche with salad which was lovely and Jon had a Turkish chicken sandwich with a side of fries and we had a beer. Sat in the sun was really warm and just like a summer's day.

When we left we popped into the shop next door and bought ice cream for pudding. I had Snickers in a cup and Jon went for his favourite - vanilla in a cone. We ate them on the walk back to the car. All in all it was a very pleasant and unplanned morning.

We got back and Jon went into the garden and I spent some time checking up on YouTube how to paint your nails with Shellac  as mine has not been that successful and I had to replace two today.

I found out that the blue plastic which is inside the UV light box should be removed - it says nothing about that or in fact any instructions at all. I think if these companies are going to sell to the public and not exclusively to beauticians then they should give instructions. I now realise this is the reason my nails have not 'cured' as they should have and some of the polish has come off. I will need to have another go when I get time.

I am feeling really edgy about tomorrow and did not feel like eating much dinner tonight. I really hope it goes well and we can get the treatment started ASAP. So glad we have an early appointment.

WEATHER
Sunny 20 degrees but felt much warmer.

Exercise Day

It was very cosy in our bed last night with the winter duvet on. Shame I had to get up with Tot twice through the night!

Breakfast as normal and Jon went off to work and I took Tot out before going to my keep fit class which was very good. I stayed for coffee after the class and we all had a chat.

I went to the supermarket on the way back for a few things - I need to get the pantry stocked up for Jane and Heather.

When I got home I found two nice cards in the mailbox, one from Jon's sister and one from my Tangent group which was very kind.

Jane bought me an iTunes card for Christmas and I thought I had better use it in case it goes out of date. Heather had set up my account before she left so that was one less problem to sort. I had heard a nice song at my class this morning and asked Diane, the teacher, what it was so that was what I bought. It is the Album by The Opera Band and I really like it. I also bought Adele, 21. I am really getting into my iPod now and like the idea of the books on it that I can listen to and if I had remembered to put some headphones in my bag, as Heather told me I should, then I would not have had to read old magazines at the hospital the other week!!

I went to the hot pools this afternoon for my aqua aerobics class. There were only eight of us but it was a really good class. I hope the numbers increase or they will stop it. After the class we went and sat in the 'hotter' pool and had a chat before showering and going home. I got back just before 6.00 and it was just about dark.

I made a shepherds pie for dinner and we ate when Jon got back from the gym and he told me that they all enjoyed the biscuits at the office.

No rush to get up in the morning - funny day for a bank holiday! I don't think I will get up for the dawn service up the Mount tomorrow!

WEATHER
Some light cloud then sunny 19 degrees

Getting cooler!!!

It really did feel cold this morning but then we are well into autumn so to be expected.

Jon left for work and I got the washing on and changed the bed and put our winter duvet on as I think it is now cold enough. I thought Jane was going to phone but I misunderstood her email. I got on with dying my hair as it was looking a bit 'pale'. It doesn't take long it is just the thought of doing it that puts me off.

I took Tot out for her walk and she got to the end of the drive and sat down and wouldn't move and when I got her up she was lifting her front paw and looked like it was hurting her so I brought her back indoors. She went running to her bed as if nothing was wrong!! I put her lead back on and made her go out again and this time she walked and we went quite a long.

I spent the rest of the day doing my cleaning, had lunch and then did the ironing and I am now paying for it as my back is killing me.

I baked some Anzac biscuits today for Jon to take into work tomorrow as it is Anzac Day on Wednesday and so a national holiday. All shops and cafes are closed till lunchtime so not sure what we are going to do for our coffee!

Jon said he would be home early to finish watching the Grand Prix but he didn't get in till 6.15 so we ended up watching it over dinner.

There was lots of beef left over from last night so we just had that with a baked potato and salad.

I love the sunny days at this time of year but I do hate the cold in the houses and I fear this house is going to be very cold this winter even Jon said he will have to start changing into something warmer in the evenings when he gets home - I hate it when we have to put all our summer things away.

Right early night for me tonight.

WEATHER
Cool morning then 20 degrees and sunny.

Our first winter roast dinner

I slept pretty well last night and thankfully Tot slept, too which probably helped me.

I cooked us a nice treat for breakfast today - scrambled eggs and bacon while Jon watched the recorded F1 qualifying.

I did a couple of loads of washing, Jon phoned Malcolm and we took Tot out for her walk and it was still only 9.30!!! We are still enjoying this lovely sunshine but I am sure once the girls arrive next week it will change.

Jon didn't feel like going too far for coffee so we popped up to the local garden centre and had a coffee sitting out in the sun. We realised that the background music they were playing was Christmas songs!! What's all that about?? When the waitress brought our coffee I commented to her about the music and she said she hadn't noticed it but that it is put on by the people who run the garden centre. I think somebody must have picked up the wrong CD but it was funny.

We bought some compost on our way out as we need to re-pot our mint as it is not doing very well and as we seem to use a lot of mint in cooking as well as the 'mojitos' it is getting expensive to buy the pots from the supermarket so hopefully ours will now grow well as all the other herbs seem to.

When we got back I sat in the sun and read the paper and Jon continued with his pottering in the garden/

After lunch we went across to Bayfair and took the recycling on the way. We went to look for a dressing gown for Jon as he left his in UK the last time we were there and I think he might need one for hospital. I also found a wok for the induction hob. It is not very big but for two of us it will be fine.

I needed to get a few things in the supermarket so we went in. I was looking at the blueberries as Jon has them with his cottage cheese and flax seed oil every morning. I was checking to see if they were all OK in the pack and to get a closer look I reached for my glasses at the same time as putting back the pack I was holding. Not sure how it happened but another pack fell down from the shelf and bounced on the shelf below before landing on the floor in front of me and the contents spread out across the floor - blueberries certainly know how to roll a long way but then they are a 'superfood'!! I looked in horror as they went across the floor and then looked up and all the people around were laughing - oops! I did go and own up at customer services so that they could clean it up in case anyone slipped. By the time I got back to Jon, who was still standing surrounded by blueberries, lots had already been crushed into the floor. I checked a few minutes later and a young lady was on her hands and knees sorting it out - phew!!

I cooked roast beef for dinner tonight followed by sticky toffee apple crumble which had far too many calories in.

I watched some TV but Jon went to bed early to start his new book.

WEATHER
Sunny 20 degrees - this is getting boring!!

Life is a funny old thing!

I really was glad when it was time to get up today. I was having trouble sleeping anyway but Tot kept getting up and scratching her bottom - bloody anal glands!!!! I was awake every hour till three o'clock and then I didn't sleep till 6.00 and was in a nice sleep when she woke again!

I finally got up, showered and was waiting for the vet to open to make an appointment when Heather called and we had a chat. Once off the phone I called the vet and took Tot along to see him. He said her anal glands were fine and he thought the irritation was probably the same problem she has been having on her leg and to treat it the same. He gave her an injection to kick start the treatment and hopefully we will all be able to get some sleep tonight!!

I got back and Jon and I took Tot out for a walk before we went into Tauranga for coffee. Such a lovely morning to be sitting outside in the sunshine.

We then went over to the library as Jon needed to change his books and I got some vegetarian cookbooks out as I am trying to get us on a 'not so much meat' diet.

We went to the supermarket on the way home and for NZ it was really busy and we had to queue!!!

We had lunch and then Jon went into the garden and I watched some TV as I was too tired to do much else.

We had some nice lamb for dinner with couscous and we talked about the options open to Jon. He says he does not want the stoma without first talking it through with the consultant and knowing the options. I can understand that but it frightens me to think he might refuse it all together.

It is really a strange feeling knowing what we do but we still have to live each day and do 'normal' things. I never really thought about it before and when people tell you they have cancer you say sorry and get on with your own life but it is so different when it is you.



WEATHER
Sunny 20 degrees.

Red Cross Day

Another lovely sunny morning though it did feel a little colder today. We did notice that the stars were lovely last night. The sky was so clear and you seem to be able to see so many more stars here than in the UK.

After all the usual breakfast things Jon left for work and I got ready to go to the shop but ran out of time so didn't get to take Tot out for her walk but left her lying on her bed in a nice sunny spot. She is very clever at knowing the sunny spots even though we are now moving into winter and they change - good for her old bones!

I arrived at the shop just as Sharon was making our first cuppa and we, Les too, had a catch up as there was no stock to put out and nothing much to do. The Girl Guides came in selling poppies for Anzac Day which is a holiday here next Wednesday, strange thinking of poppy day in April! Bronwyn and Viv came into the shop to see me and have a chat, just as well I am a volunteer and not a paid worker!

The morning, as always, passed very quickly and Les was soon shouting that it was coffee time and as I always phone the order through and go across the road to collect it I had to jump to. I treated us to a packet of the lovely chocolate chip cookies that they make in the cafe.

I have a long cardigan that I really like and it has gone into a little hole on the back. There is a very nice lady, Raewyn, who is a Red Cross volunteer like me but she also takes things home to repair and then brings them back to sell. I saw her this morning and asked her if she could do anything with my cardigan and she said she would have a look. She was back in about an hour and she had stitched a piece of fancy braid across the back with four buttons on it and it looks so good. She didn't want me to pay her, she is a very clever lady.

We spent the rest of the morning putting out local donations that had come in but the 'regulars' are really missing all the Australian stock that we usually have. Management have a lot to answer for!!

I left at 1.00 and stopped at the supermarket on the way home to buy some lamb steaks for dinner tomorrow, they need to be marinated overnight so I had to get them. I also bought some chocolate to give to the lady who fixed my cardigan.

I had lunch when I got home and then I took Tot out. It was such a lovely day and so warm. Tot was obviously in a good walking mood and we had a really long walk and when we got back she was tired. I was just about to start on my ironing but had to call a friend back who had left a message to speak to me. While I was talking to her I was stroking Tot and noticed she had lots of bit in her coat and to begin with I thought they were fleas (she is treated with Frontline so it wouldn't have been fleas). I think she must have been rolling in dirt when she was last in kennels over Easter so I thought I had better give her a bath much to her disgust and she was very dirty.

I did finally get my ironing done but also have a nice clean dog.

Jon went to the gym and came home had a quick shower and then went out for our fish and chips. We watched some TV and talked about what we will do this weekend and we have decided to go to the races as they have a big meeting on here in Tauranga - well big by NZ standards!

WEATHER
Sunny 19 degrees

A helping hand to my neighbour

Usual morning start today and managed to get the washing on and out on the line by 8.15!!

Kirsty called and we had a chat and she told me that she really wants to come over and see her dad but as she can't get the same time off work as Jane and Heather and is not sure if James has enough air miles to pay for his ticket and she just feels she can't face such a long journey on her own. I have told her that is fine with Jon and I and we totally understand - she has a wedding and is saving for a house!! It is not as if we are not going to get to see her again. Jon only suggested they come over if they want to so she really should not feel bad and people should not be making her feel guilty for not coming over.

After I got off the phone I took Tot out for her walk and then went over to see Alison and Bronwyn and we had a lovely morning chatting in Alison's lovely sunny conservatory. It was good to chat to Bronwyn who knows how I am feeling as her husband was diagnosed with the same 12 years ago and is doing well.

I then popped across the road to see my old neighbour and finally take the Easter bunnies to the children as I hadn't been able to face seeing them before now. It was nice to chat to her but they still haven't had any joy selling their house and may end up renting it so they can get on and build their new one.

I got back and had lunch and watched Neighbours and then went out to wash my car and while doing so nearly soaked my elderly neighbour who poked her head over the fence and said 'Hello, my name is Beryl'. I have chatted to her once before when she told me she had lost her cat but couldn't remember its name or what colour it was!! She told me she was locked out of her house as she had her locks changed yesterday and had come out with the wrong keys. She seemed to be very confused and told me her husband was in hospital but didn't know why he was in there and she was too tired to go and visit him today!!! I asked her if she had a spare key hidden and she said yes but couldn't remember where nor could she remember the locksmith who came yesterday. I told her to come round and use our phone and expected her to go all the way round the drive and up our path but no, she just removed one of the fence panels and hopped through!! I think she might have been friendly with the old couple who lived her before our landlord bought it.

We got the phone and looked in the phone book and called one of the numbers and then she couldn't remember the number of her house!! Oh dear, this was getting worse. The locksmith said he would come out and so she went back home and I carried on washing the car.I said if she was waiting for a long time I would pass a cup of tea over the fence to her. A few minutes later she came to the fence and said she had found her keys but it would be too late to stop the locksmith but she still didn't go into the house. The locksmith stopped outside our house and I went and told him where she was and that she was very confused. He went up her drive and I heard drilling so he must have had to take the lock off to get in so she didn't have the key after all. I cleaned the inside of my car and heard him drive away and I didn't see her again so all must be well. I really think she needs some help as to me she looks like she shouldn't be on her own. I have no idea how old she is but must be in her 80s.

I cooked Moroccan lamb for dinner and Jon came home with some avocados and some new season Kiwi fruit which will need to ripen in the airing cupboard as they are still hard.

We watched Coronation Street and Jon has just made me a coffee and then I am off to bed for that early night I keep promising myself. I just remembered to charge my eReader as I could only read one page last night and then it shut down!!

The forecast is for a lovely sunny weekend and it would be lovely to think the weather stayed like this for when Jane and Heather are here but I think we might be pushing our luck and Heather seems to have a bad effect on weather wherever we are!!


WEATHER
Sunny 21 degrees

Wednesday

We woke to another lovely day and it felt so warm during the night I had had to get up and open another window!

I made Jon's usual breakfast mix again today and he is being very good about having it along with all the other things I am giving him at the moment - they might not help but they can't do any harm and the multivitamin will be good for his system when he starts treatment.

Jon left for work and I called Malcolm and we had a chat, if Jon feels like it he will call Malcolm for a chat at the weekend.

I then went and met Les at the Mount and we walked around. We completed it very fast as Les is on a mission when she walks whereas I like to stop and enjoy the views. Les didn't stay for coffee as she had to go and look after her granddaughter. I went to meet my friends from swimming and while I was waiting I started with another migraine, the third in a week! The don't get to be full blown migraine but I get the funny zigzags in my right eye and it cuts out half of my vision and then I get a headache on the left side at the back of my head. It last for about an hour and then the rest of the day I just feel a bit lightheaded.

Anyway, I couldn't drive till it passed so went for a coffee and it did pass. It was nice being with these ladies again, such a shame they messed the classes up. I think maybe when I have finished the ten classes I have paid for I will have a rethink.

After coffee I went to find a birthday present for my great nephew who will be one in May and after his very scary start is now a beautiful little boy. I didn't find what I wanted at the Mount shops so went to Bayfair where I found him a little hoodie which is cute.

I then went to see if I could find a wok for this new induction hob but they are very expensive and as we will have to move house next March anyway and might not have an induction hob I have decided to just keep using the big frying pan but I miss doing all my stir frys! I did buy a new pepper mill that grinds the pepper by just turning it upside down so no pepper falls out over the work surface when you put it down. I had a $20 voucher for one of the shops and so I bought some nice face cream.

I got home and some sports bras I had ordered weeks ago had arrived and my neighbour called me and brought over a canvas photo I had ordered. Also the gel nail set I ordered weeks ago arrived today so we had a lot of goodies. I can't wait to use the nail stuff and just hope I can do it as well as the salon.

I took Tot out and then had lunch. I had another few calls from friends this afternoon and Alison called to invite me over for a coffee in the morning and Bronwyn will come in, too.

I did a bit of ironing and watched some TV and took Tot out for her second walk before Jon came back. He said he had had a much better day at work today so that is good. His appointment arrived today and we see the consultant next Thursday at 8.50. I am glad it is early and we don't have to wait till the afternoon.

I cooked a nice dinner tonight, spaghetti with smoked salmon, mushrooms and peas with lots of garlic and some white wine - yummy. We had caramelised pineapple and yogurt for pudding.

A bit of TV and now bed. I have done well tonight and managed to stay awake while watching TV!!

WEATHER
Sunny 21 degrees

I am so tired!!

Another lovely day today, long may it last.

It was keep fit this morning but before I went I managed to speak to my friend in Spain which is always nice. It made me a little late for my class but I arrived just as they stated. I stayed for coffee after the class and had a chat with the ladies.

I went tot the supermarket on the way home and then walked Tot once I got back. It is so warm today none of the usual nip in the air that we have had.

I sent more emails to friends and generally pottered around. I had lunch and enjoyed reading my magazine and had a couple of phone calls from friends Les and Patricia.

I made a vegetable curry to go with the chicken Balti I took out of the freezer for dinner tonight.

I went out to my aqua aerobics class this afternoon and it was another really good class. We all sat in the hotter pool after the class and had a chat.

By the time I got home it was 6.30 and Jon was back. He said he had a 'couldn't be bothered' kind of day at work and so had left early and gone to the gym.

Jon booked the flight for the girls and found a good deal on Emirates and the stopovers in Dubai and Sydney are not too bad. Heather is so pleased as she is allowed 30kg of luggage which means they can bring out whatever we want - not that we want anything - and she can take back the things she left here and which we were going to take back in August.

We had dinner which was good and then we started to watch TV but I fell asleep within five minutes!! Now I need to go to bed for some proper sleep.

WEATHER
Sunny 20 degrees

A normal day

I slept well but I don't think Jon did. I got up when he was in the shower to make his cottage cheese/flax oil breakfast mix which I don't fancy at all but he seems to enjoy it.

We have had so many lovely emails and messages from friends all wishing Jon well. He hasn't read them yet but will do when he feels stronger.

Once Jon had left for work I got on and did all my usual Monday chores - washing, cleaning, ironing and changing the sheets. I was stopped by quite  few phone calls from friend here wishing Jon well and offering any help we may need which is very nice of them. Fortunately, by the end of the day all my housework was done.

I managed to get Tot out twice today and one one of the occasions met a lady from down the road who is from Singapore. We have chatted a few times as she has an old dog who is like Totty and not overly fond of other dogs jumping around on top of him so it is quite nice to walk with her.

Jon came in at 7.00 after having been to the gym. He said he was fine and that work had gone well. He took his sandwiches down to the beach and sat in the car to eat them which is much better than sitting at his desk like he normally does.

I cooked a very English dinner tonight, pork chops, mashed potatoes, cabbage, courgette and carrot with gravy. It is ages since we had a meal like that and it was very enjoyable. We had fresh fruit salad for dessert.

We watched some TV but I fell asleep so think I need to have another early night tonight.

I had contacted a friend in the UK who has a property management business to ask for the name of a carpenter and a painter and decorator as the girls have been trying to get some work on the house sorted out for ages and the carpenter says he will come but so far hasn't. My friend gave me a contact so I have sent it to the girls and hopefully they can get it sorted. I thought people were short of work in UK!!

WEATHER
Sunny and bright 21 degrees

A quiet day

I was very late to bed last night as I had a long chat with my friend in the UK and so I didn't wake as early as I have been doing. Jon got up to watch the F1 qualifying rounds which TVNZ didn't screen live and so it was not on till midnight.
We had intended to go out for breakfast but decided to stay in and use some of the lovely free range eggs I bought yesterday and quite honestly, you can't get a better view than we have from our deck and it was a lovely sunny morning so it was scrambled eggs at Casa Trevenna!

We took Tot out and then read the papers before heading down to Sulphur Point and a cafe there that is part of a complex of apartments and a huge boat storage warehouse where people, who can afford to, store their boats over winter and it is all very state of the art. We sat in the lovely sunshine and enjoyed a really good coffee. We then had a little walk and watched the 'boaties' setting of on their day trips. I think there are probably more bots in NZ than cars!

We got back and just spent the rest of the day lazing around and reading or watching TV. There was a lot going on in the park today, I have never seen so many kayaks and at one stage people were actually queueing to use the boat ramp with jet skis, dinghies and various other vessels.

I made a Victoria sponge this morning and we had afternoon tea which was very nice.

Jon has been a bit brighter today and has found flights for Jane and Heather and Kirsty and James will come over just as they leave - they will pass each other in the sky. It will be lovely to see them all.

We had dinner while watching the Grand Prix, the last one we can watch at a sensible time!

Heather called and we had a chat but the line was very bad. I need to go to bed early as I am so tired, lots catching up with me!

WEATHER
Sunny and 21 degrees

Saturday

I have had some lovely emails from my family and friends wishing Jon all the best for his recovery and they really mean so much to us. Jon can't read them yet but I have told him about them.

Jane called this morning and I spoke to her for about an hour followed by a call from Heather for another hour. Poor Tot I completely forgot to give her breakfast till 10.00!!

Jon has told the girls that they can come out and see him if they want and he will sort out tickets for them so he has been looking at flights. Jane and Heather can come out together but Kirsty can only make different dates and can come out with James.

We took Tot out for a walk before going down to The Mount for coffee and then on to the supermarket where I bought a whole flounder for dinner!!

We got home and after lunch Jon went into the garden to work, it is looking very good at the moment. I think the owner should be paying us to live here.

I spent the afternoon emailing and taking phone calls from friends who are wishing us well but it is very hard.

I did some ironing and caught up with Neighbours.

I cooked the flounder and it was surprisingly good and we enjoyed it.

Jon is very upset at the thought of the stoma and I can understand as the thought of it, after having read up on the net, is not nice. I have said we need to wait and speak to the consultant about a second opinion. I knew he would not be happy about it but the alternative is much worse.

Kirsty phoned and we had a chat and she told me that James would like to come down, too so I will need to speak to Jon about it tomorrow when he is calmer.

Weather
Sunny 22 degrees

How will we cope with this?

Thursday 29 March 2012
After nearly three months waiting Jon had his appointment with the consultant today. He didn't want me to go with him and I was surprised when he was back so quickly.
He came into the kitchen and I looked at him and asked how it went. He couldn't speak and went out onto the deck. He was so upset and all I could do was hug him. My very worst fears were confirmed without him speaking a word.
When he could speak he told me that they would arrange a colonoscopy, a CT scan and an MRI in about two weeks also radiotherapy followed by surgery. Under the circumstances I think that is too long so I suggested we pay privately to have it done and Jon agreed.
I phoned the surgery and really wanted to speak to the GP who I am so angry with. I want to know why it took so long to get him seen and even then only a 'semi urgent' appointment. With my little medical secretary knowledge I know it should have been 'urgent' - but that can wait. The nurse I spoke to suggested I call and speak to the hospital and the consultant.
I called and spoke to the nurse who had seen Jon this morning and understanding my distress she said she would speak to the consultant and call me back. Five minutes later she called to say the consultant said it would now be better to stay in the public system. I was choked as two weeks seems such a long time to wait. The consultant kindly came and spoke to me and said although it often appears that they are complacent in these cases all the wheels where now in motion and it would be better to keep with that route as he did not think two weeks would make a difference - Do I read more into that???? He said that Jon had obviously had the tumour for some months. I now feel so guilty for not making him go to the doctor back in October when I noticed blood on some paper that had not flushed away after he had been to the loo. He has been so healthy, not tired, eats well and goes to the gym so I thought he was OK.
We are both in a terrible state of shock and today has been the longest day of my life. I phoned my friend Viv and she was very kind and told me to be positive but it is so hard. I keep thinking of all the things we had planned and how life is now really good and he has worked so hard to get us to this point. However, I would give it all up for him to be healthy.
My reaction is being unable to eat so in a way all the pounds I have gained since Christmas are coming in useful. Jon managed to eat lunch and we sat on the deck looking at the most beautiful view. How can such a beautiful day bring such bad news?
Jon spent the afternoon in the garden cutting the grass and generally making it all tidy and for him it was the right thing to do. I spent the afternoon ironing and for me that was the right thing to do.
Where do we go from here? I don't know. What and when do we tell the girls? Heather knew something was wrong when she was here. What does he tell work? The owner is not good at keeping quiet and we don't want it to get back to Heather via some of the girls in the office who she is in touch with. I think the best thing is to say he needs more tests and when we have a definite diagnosis and treatment plan then we can tell the girls first and everyone else after. I can't believe this is happening.
We had dinner, well Jon did! I really don't know how he is managing to eat I can't get much down at the moment. I feel like I want to go out into the garden and scream and scream till it all goes away, I am so frightened as to what Jon is going to have to go through but if it works it will be worth it. I have to keep reminding myself it is all about him and to put my feeling to one side.
Friday 30 March
I felt so ill this morning after a really terrible night. I woke at 1.40 and then went back to sleep but woke again about 2.30  and then could just not get back to sleep. Jon seemed to be asleep for most of the time though. I was glad when it was time to get up.
Jon was very emotional when he was leaving for work and commented 'we are a long way from home'. I think he is worried about me and being on my own here but I do have good friends here.
After taking Tot out I went to the Red Cross and as soon as I walked in Les knew something was wrong so I told her and Sharon and they were so kind and both hugged me and say I have to be positive. They both could not believe it as they said Jon looked so well at the bbq last week.
It was good to go to the shop as it kept my mind off things a little. I still can't eat and even my coffee I could only drink half. I need to eat though as I am feeling pretty awful and very light headed.
I stayed at the shop till nearly 1.00 and then came home. I had a crispbread and a bit of cheese and then just sat and watched TV.
The hospital called to ask if Jon could make the MRI appointment for next Wednesday at 12.00 so I said yes he could and I am going to go to every appointment regardless of what he says.
I called Jon but he was still in the board meeting but he did call me back later and said he had a meeting for Wednesday but would change it. He told Mark (MD) that he needs tests and will need time off but that is all he said to him. He also told Rachel, HR but told her if Mark says anything to make sure nothing is said to Heather until we get round to telling them.
Jon came home early and said he had had a 'can't be bothered' kind of day and said he was very short with them at the board meeting but I think it is only to be expected.
We just sat around and watched some TV and I have been looking at diets for cancer patients to see if I can help in that way.
We had fish and chips for dinner but neither of us could eat it all. It was then TV for the rest of the night. Depending on how he feels tomorrow and what the weather is like we might go out to Whangamata for the day.
Saturday 31 March
I slept a little better last night but we were still up early. When I wake I have a few lovely minutes of happiness before I remember what is happening and then I feel so desperate. We have had such a lovely three years here and we had so many plans and so many places we wanted to visit. I managed a bit of cereal for breakfast and Jon ate his normal breakfast.
We spent a nice few hours in Whangamata at the Beach Hop and it was the right thing to do as it took our minds off things and looking at the cars was good. I took a photo of Jon and not sure if it is just me or he does look tired but there is certainly a sadness in his eyes.
When we got back we had the letter for his MRI on Wednesday. It feels good now that we can see something is going to happen.
Jon went and did some gardening. I think it helps him to go out there and not sure what he would do if we didn't have it.
I cooked dinner and Jon enjoyed it but I couldn't eat. I told Jon I didn't like it as I don't want him to start worrying about me. We had some cheese after dinner which was good.
I really don't think he has any idea what is in store for him with the treatment. If he does he is doing a very good job of covering it up. I hope it is a case of ignorance is bliss.
Sunday 1 April
I had another really bad night last night in fact, I don't think I will ever sleep well again.
I cooked scrambled eggs and toast for breakfast and Jon managed to eat it all and I struggled with mine again.
After giving Tot a bath we took her out for a walk and then went to the local garden centre for coffee and we bought some silver beet seedlings to plant, green leaf veg are good for you.
Jon spent most of the day gardening and making it all look good for next summer, I watched TV
I cooked dinner and Jon asked me why I was not eating these days and I told him I was very worried about him and he said he is worried, too. I told him worry always effects my tummy which he knows anyway.
We watched TV and Heather called but as our clocks have changed it was a bit late and so after an hour of chatting Jon was ready for bed and we didn't get to watch the end of our programme.
I keep considering all the options and different things that the consultant might tell us and I am just going round in circles but really until Jon has had all the tests and the results come in we really can't decide anything.
Monday 2 April
After another bad night I was glad when it was time to get up as we had both been awake since 4.00 when Totty woke me for the second time with her itchy bottom and I had been in a pretty good sleep till then well, since the last time I woke at 1.00!
Jon said he would go to the gym after work as he needed to keep fit now more than ever.
I spent the morning reading about how diet can help cancer and trying to feel useful. I found a good website which is here in NZ www.alternative-cancer-care.com and the people are based in Whangamata where we were on Saturday. Les called me and we arranged to meet at the health food shop to get some things for Jon, she knows a lot about nutrition and I need all the help I can get to understand it all.
I had some cheese and a cracker for lunch as I need to keep my strength up as I don't want to get ill and so far I have lost 7lbs so I need to be careful for Jon's sake.
I bought Jon some Flax seed oil which is apparently good mixed with cottage cheese and this allows the oil of the flax to get into the blood stream which in turn goes to the cancer cells and stops them growing so quickly. I also got him a multi vitamin and a high dose vitamin C as his immune system needs to be strong. I went to the supermarket and bought lots of organic fruit and veg and some ground Linseed (Flax) to go with the oil and cottage cheese and you make a sort of smoothie with it. Hopefully, it will help. After reading a lot of what was on the website I am feeling more positive and it says being positive is a really good thing but it is very hard.
Jon came home and said the hospital had left a message to say his colonoscopy will be on 19 April - that is more than the two weeks the doctor said!!! Jon is going to call them tomorrow to say if they have a cancellation he can come in at anytime and hopefully he can get it sooner. It is so frustratingly slow compared to the UK system.
One of his managers who he thinks highly of resigned today leaving him with a lot on and all this stress he could do without.
We both manged to eat our dinner tonight and I have put my oil burner in the bedroom with some lavender and now the dog is sorted maybe we can get a bit more sleep.
It hit me today that, whatever happens, life is never going to be the same again.
Tuesday 3 April
Well the lavender in the burner seemed to work as we both slept much better last night.
I got up at the same time as Jon to make him his cottage cheese and flax oil mixture. He ate it with blueberries and said it was OK.
Once Jon left for work I called the hospital and spoke to the secretary and asked if the appointment could not be sooner or could we go on the cancellation list. She said she would put us down for that and I said we could go anytime. I told her the doctor said all the test would be done in two weeks and that this appointment was actually three weeks and I felt it was more urgent. She told me that usually you wait 'six months'!!!! Give me the NHS any day. She told me we needed to collect a box of sachets for Jon to take prior to the appointment and so I said I would pick them up later.
I went to my keep fit class but it was hard. I went straight up to the hospital and collected the box and the receptionist told me they had changed the appointment to 12 April which is next week so I was very pleased.
I seem to be going round in a daze most of the time but Les, Viv and Carol are being very good and keeping in touch with me through the day, I don't know where I would be without them.
I went to my aqua aerobics class at the hot pools this afternoon and it was really nice to be there and a very different feel to the morning class.
When Jon came in from the gym he told me he had tried to call this afternoon to say he was going for a CT scan at 3.00. They called him just after he had lunch and said he could go in for 3.00. They did his chest and abdomen. He said he noted on his notes they had him down for 16 April so I assume the 'we'll take a cancellation anytime' message got through which is good. So now we have the MRI for tomorrow and the colonoscopy for next week and then hopefully a 'soon' appointment with the consultant to see the results. He doesn't want me to go with him tomorrow as he says it is only like an x-ray and they won't tell him anything so I suppose I will just have to go along with what he says for now.
Hopefully, the lavender will work tonight, too.
Wednesday 4 April
Lavender seems to have worked again as we both slept well. I woke a few times but wasn't lying awake for hours as I have been doing.
Jon had all his concoctions again this morning and told me he had lost one and a half pounds in weight so I am going to have to give him more fattening foods.
I went to the supermarket after my aqua class and bought some monk fish for dinner tonight and have found a nice recipe shame it didn't taste as good as it should have done.
Jon came home after his scan and had lunch here so just one more to go and then hopefully we will get an appointment through with the consultant to tell us what treatment he will have.
I am feeling really down again today. So many things to consider. But we just have to wait and see what the consultant says. Jon is going to the gym every night after work so hopefully that will help with his fitness.
Thursday 5 April
Jon didn't sleep so well last night as the dog was up at 4.00 and he said he didn't settle after that but that is still better than it has been. I set off for the hour and a half drive to meet my friend from the UK and her daughter and baby granddaughter at 9.00. I wasn't looking forward to the drive on my own but I was glad I went and it did me good to be away from things and just enjoy meeting up with my friend from Newmarket and catch up on all the happenings back home. We had a really lovely day and the baby is just beautiful and sooooo good and I enjoyed lots of cuddles with her. So I was really glad I went and came home feeling much better. Jon went for a haircut after work and when he came home we had dinner and I had a glass of wine and feel pretty good at the moment. I am really looking forward to our weekend away and I don't care if the weather is not great. We are going to forget everything and just enjoy it.
Easter weekend 6-9 April
I was glad we went away as we did really enjoy it despite the rain. However, it is so hard keeping up a front and I think we are both trying so hard not to let each other see how we are feeling. I am not sure if I am imagining it or Jon is losing weight, he has to go to the loo so often after he has eaten which can't be good.
By Monday I was glad we were going home and I was happy to get there. Once home I felt very tearful and really had to get a grip.
Only a few days to go before Jon has the colonoscopy. My friend's mother was told after her colonoscopy what would be done so I hope we will, too as this waiting and not knowing the full extent is awful.
Tuesday 10 April.
We both slept badly last night and were up early. Sometimes I just long to go to bed to make the days go faster and then I long to get up as it all seems so horrible at night.
Jon is back on his Flax oil and cottage cheese and blueberries for breakfast. I didn't take it away with us as I could not guarantee keeping it at the right temperature.
I didn't stay for coffee after keep fit as I just find having conversations with people and trying to put on a normal front too much hard work. I went to buy some vegetables to make some soup for Jon as he needs to have clear fluids as from after lunch tomorrow and then only water on Thursday till he goes to the hospital in the afternoon.
I went to my aqua class and enjoyed it and Jon arrived home at the same time as he didn't feel like going to the gym. Roll on Thursday when hopefully we will know what we are up against.
Wednesday 11 April
Jon was working from home all day today as he needs to take the bowel preparation mixture and will need to be near the loo. When I got out of the pool today I started with a migraine type thing with lots of funny black and white shapes in my vision and the drive home was a bit scary but it didn't go into a full blown migraine thank goodness.  I cooked us a proper lunch as after 1.00 Jon can only have clear fluids for the rest of the day and then nothing at all after 8.00 tomorrow morning until after the procedure. He started drinking the mixture which consists of four sachets which need to be made up with one litre of water and a glass drunk every 15 minutes until they are all gone. He started OK but by 10.00 pm he had just about had enough and could not take anymore as it was making him feel ill but he only had about one glass to go. He has spent all night just standing in the kitchen ready to go to the loo which has been often. Not sure what time he will stop going or if he is going to manage to get any sleep. I made some clear vegetable soup but he can't face it now and is just on water.
Thursday 12 April
Jon finally managed to get to bed at 1.00 but we both had a very restless night and once again I was glad when the dawn broke and I could get up. Jon is now on water and we will leave for the hospital about 1.15. I need to make a decision as to when we tell the girls as I have some things coming up for Lions and I really need to let them know I won't be able to do them and feel bad about leaving it so long but it can't be helped and I hope they will understand.
We arrived at the hospital at 1.40 and were shown to a bed and Jon got changed. The nurse came in and did all the questions etc and put the cannula in his arm. She told us he was fifth so we would not go down till about 3.30. Jon hadn't brought a book so I went and bought a magazine for him. I had brought my eReader but when I turned it on the battery was flat!! I spent the afternoon reading 'old' magazines. Jon went in at 3.40 and it was expected to take 25- 45 minutes, he was in for 65 and I was beside myself with worry. When he did come out he was in a lot of pain due to the air they pump into you. Once he had managed to get rid of it he felt better. He finally came round and the nurse brought us a cup of tea and a sandwich for Jon.
The consultant came out to speak to us and I found him very kind and easy to talk to. He said they found two tumours one 30cm up and the other just inside his bottom. He said he believed they were curable and as Jon is young and healthy he thought it would be good. The biggest problem is the one just inside his bottom. They need to leave a 1cm margin where they cut and as this is in a difficult situation they will have to fit a stoma bag which will be for the rest of his life. Jon is very distressed about this. On the whole I was relieved and felt more positive than I have for two weeks as the MRI and CT scan results are all clear and my biggest worry was that it had spread. The surgeon said no special diet is needed and just to eat as much as he can to be strong and he said he could drink alcohol and if it was him he would 'have a few'!
The next step is a discussion over at Hamilton on Wednesday and they will decide on either a six week course of radiotherapy of a one week intensive course and then both would be followed by the surgery so we should know in two weeks.
When we got home I called the girls which was very hard as I couldn't do anything to make it easier for them. I only managed to speak to Jane and Heather as Kirsty had gone to work. Jane went over to be with Heather and hopefully they will get to speak to Kirsty soon. They will be in shock as we were but they need to be positive. I also spoke to my sister in law, Julie and she will kindly tell Jon's sisters. I tried my sister but she was out so spoke to my brother in law and our friend Roger. Malcolm was out so I emailed him. I seem to have been talking or typing all night and I am now exhausted so I am off to bed and hopefully sleep a little better tonight.
Friday 13 April
I did sleep well but Jon didn't and was awake at 4.00 and finally got up at 6.00. I spoke to Heather this morning and she seems OK and I was glad to hear they are all supporting each other. Jon was happy for me to go to the Red Cross this morning and it was good for me and it really helps. Les and Sharon are so kind even though Les is going through some real problems trying to get her visa to stay here and things are not going well for her. The shop was busy and I finished at about 1.00. I popped into the supermarket and when I got home at 1.45 Jon was still in the garden and hadn't had any lunch yet. It was another beautiful day so we sat on the deck for lunch. Jon then went back into the garden. This garden has not had so much attention for years. I spent the afternoon emailing people, it is very hard. We had our usual Friday fish and chips and watched some TV. Jon went up to bed early and I am just about to go as I am so tired.
WEATHER
Sunny 23 degrees.

A stormy night

Jon was working from home today for a change and so no hurry this morning but we were still up early.
I took Tot out for her walk and then went to my aqua class in Greerton. The pool is much cooler there but it was a very good class. I spoke to Carla after the class and she told me she is from Sao Paulo and that is where she did her training and why it is so different to the Kiwi teachers who, I think, are just aerobic teachers and not trained for aqua. She told me all gyms have pools and it is very common to do aqua in Brazil. Everybody loves her class that is for sure even the old ladies. She said she get home every year as she misses her family.

On the way home I picked up some coffees and a muffin for Jon and I and we sat out on the deck as it was warm and sunny and the tide was in and looking pretty.

Jon went back down to the office and I sat for the rest of the day trying to work out how to edit my photos on this new system. Even with the helpful email from my nephew I still could not do it. Eventually, I realised what I was 'not' doing!! Which was ticking the 'apply' icon - so simple but it has been a real pain. I was then able to upload all my photos from the weekend when I should have been doing my ironing.

Finally finished the photos and it was pouring with rain so I couldn't take Tot out so got stuck into the ironing and did a lot of it.

I made some vegetable soup this afternoon so I did manage to get something done.

It is really windy now and rain is lashing against the windows but the weather people say it will be gone by tomorrow.

WEATHER
Cloudy with some sun wind and rain late afternoon 22 degrees

Back to work!!

We were both awake and up early today and Jon went off to work and I started the washing and got one load out before going out to my keep fit class.

I didn't stay for coffee today and came home and hung the second load out. I spent the morning trying to work the new Windows Live Photo Gallery so that I can edit my photos and put them on to Facebook. I hate it when they change things and it is now really complicated to edit my photos and I get very angry when it won't work!

I did my housework and had some lunch and then I went to the hot pools for my aqua class which was very good but you can tell we are getting into winter as the sun was right down behind the Mount so none shining on the pool, just as well it was warm.

I got home at the same time as Jon - he decided not to go to the gym tonight.

I brought all my washing in so looks like I will spend the day ironing tomorrow. I took Tot out for a walk before it got dark which is around about 6.30 now.

I made dinner and then we watched some TV.
WEATHER
Sunny 24 degrees

A lovely Easter weekend but the wettest place in NZ!

We had a lovely weekend which started really well driving around the East Cape with beautiful turquoise coloured water and lovely bays and beaches. We visited churches and Maraes (Maori meeting houses) met some very kind local people who showed us around. A lovely lunch on the beach when we had nearly given up finding anywhere open!! I have no idea what the people do here for a living or how they show it is all so remote and you can't live of views.

We arrived in Hicks Bay and although our motel was 'basic' it was clean with lovely views across the bay. We had a walk around the grounds and then it was getting dark so we went into our little rooms. A big group of Harley Davison bikers arrived to stay, too. I had brought our chilly bin with supplies and so we had some nice fish and salad before going to bed. Such a small TV made watching it really difficult. Not sure how we used to manage back in the UK with our small TV!

Saturday was drizzle and not very good. After breakfast we went to tour the bay but the weather was not good but the bay was very beautiful. Found some lovely waterfalls but you need to cross a field of cows to get to them and we had no wellies. Set of to East Cape Lighthouse and decided to go back and check out of hotel instead of staying another night as really not much to do. The hotel kindly said if they re let our room they will refund us which was very kind of them. We phoned our hotel in Gisborne and asked for a room and fortunately they had one for tonight but we will have to change rooms tomorrow but that is fine.

We set off again and got to the gravel round and drove the 20K out to the most easterly point. A lot of the road was falling away and very narrow with the beach on one side and cliffs going up on the other with beautiful waterfalls. We got to the base of the hill where the lighthouse it and it was pouring with rain so we waited for a break before making our way up the 700+ steps to the top!!! WEll worth it and I am sure it must be even better in the sun, never mind. As we got back down it rained again so we were lucky.

Back in the town we visited the 350 year old Pohutakawa tree which is the biggest in the world. We then popped in to the Kai Kart for some lunch (Kai means food in Maori). We had a piece of fish each which was delicious and some chips and a very chatty Maori owner.

We carried on along the coast stopping at coves and bays which were all lovely but a shame it was raining.

We arrived in Gisborne and checked in and we followed the bikers as they were there, too. Lovely room and at only $15 more than last night but soooooo much better.

We went out for dinner and the starter was good but we waited for ages for our main and when it came it was not good. Front of house staff were very good and she spoke to the chef and we didn't have to pay for our meal but it was a shame.

Sunday we woke to worse rain and after a not very good breakfast at a local bar but we changed rooms and now have the room we booked for tonight with a view of the harbour. We set of back up the coast to Tolaga Bay. We stopped in a Maori bar for coffee which was quite an experience and then we made our way to the Tolaga Bay wharf which is 660 mtrs long. It was pouring with rain but I just had to walk on it, Jon stayed in the car and I got some people to take my photo, such a shame. I would love to see it in the sunshine. We drove back to Gisborne as there was little point staying out. I had a lovely bowl of seafood chowder and we then went back to the room and watched TV and I read my book. In the evening we went for a walk when the rain stopped.

Dinner was a disaster as we went out late (we spent too long watching a log boat set sail)and walked around looking for somewhere, Easter is not good to find places open! We walked for 50 minutes and every place we went into said they were closing - it was only 8.30!!! We finally found an Indian takeaway and got some food and walked back to our room, just as well we had all the kitchen facilities. It was OK but Indian food here is not the best.

Monday we got up and I cooked scrambled eggs and we watched another log boat docking, amazing how the little tugs push them into place. After checking out we were on our way. I think we chose the wettest place in NZ for Easter as back home in Tauranga they had wall to wall sunshine and mid twenties!!

It wasn't long before we saw some sun and had a good drive home. Passing through the gorge as not too bad and not as busy as I thought it would be. They had a big slip a couple of months ago and only managed to get one lane open in time for Easter or we would have had to take a big detour. WE got to Whakatane in time for lunch  and bought a sandwich and sat by the river to eat it in beautiful sunshine.

We got home about 3.00 and stopped for some meat to bbq on the way. After unpacking and putting some washing on we went to pick Totty up and she was very pleased to see us.

We had some lovely lamb chops for dinner with salad and we are now ready for bed.

WEATHER
Mixed Friday lovely 19 degrees, Saturday showers 16 degrees, Sunday lots of rain 16 degrees, Monday once back in the Bay beautiful sunshine 25 degrees

A lovely day with a freind from UK

After walking Tot I left home at 9.00 for my drive to Paeroa to met up with Sue, an old friend from Newmarket and her daughter Helen and her baby. Helen now lives in Auckland and Sue is here on holiday.

We met in a bar in Paeroa and had coffee and a chat. Baby Isabelle is adorable and so placid, she just sits, well wriggles, and smiles and is so sweet.

We went for a walk down the main street and took some photos at the big L&P bottle (a drink that used to be made in Paeroa and is the only bit of interest in the town).

We then drove on to Karagahake Gorge where we had lunch and more chat and catch up.

After lunch we went for a walk into the gorge and Sue really liked it. Helen has been there before with her husband. At the end of the track you can go into the mine and I told Sue and Helen to go in as they would be able to see some glow worms. I have been in many times so stayed outside with the baby in her pushchair. Sue does not like tunnels but was very brave and after holding Helen's hand they managed to go in and see some glow worms so all worth it.

We walked back to the car park and it was time to say goodbye. I really enjoyed meeting up with them. I commented to Sue that it was amazing to think that four years ago we would never have imagined that we would one day meet up in NZ!! Life is strange.

I drove back and stopped in the supermarket to get some provisions for our trip tomorrow to this very 'out of the way' part of NZ and we are really looking forward to it.

I cooked a nice sauce with mince and veg to go with pasta tonight and I really enjoyed it with a glass of wine.

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud and wind 24 degrees

A hot day

I went out to my aqua class this morning and then popped down to the Red Cross to collect my fleece that I left last Friday. I then went to buy some contact lens cleaning solution before buying some monk fish for dinner.

Back home I had a message from a friend in the UK to say she was here and could we meet tomorrow so I eventually managed to get back to her and arrange a place to meet which will be nice and also to see her daughter and new granddaughter.

I had lunch and did some sorting out of paperwork amazing how it builds up. I cleaned the bathrooms and did some ironing.

I had a load of washing on the line and with the terrible gusts of wind I lost one of my beach towels and found it at the bottom of the garden. Crazy weather as it is so hot but every now and again we get a really strong gust of wind.

I popped down to the post office to post a card and then came back and took Totty out for her walk but she was puffing and panting.

I cooked the fish but didn't eat much as I didn't like the recipe.

Early night as I have a long drive tomorrow.

WEATHER
Sunny and warm but with some strong gusts 26 degrees

A busy day

Jon went off to work and I took Tot out for her walk.

I went to my keep fit class and as it was so hot we were all very tired afterwards.

I got home and did a few chores and then had some lunch, early, as I had an appointment to have a pedicure and get my nails 'gel' painted and they now look very nice.

I then went to help Lions at the book room to pack up books ready for the move but it was all closed up. I called Janice and she said they had done it all this morning and were finished when she got there, too. As the manager of the mall was not around they don't know which shop he is going to let them have so they are going to finish it tomorrow.

I went to the supermarket and then home to keep Tot company for a while.

At 4.00 I went across to the Mount Hot Pools for my aqua class which, although it was very windy, was a really good class. Carol's daughter in law was there with her little boy who is really sweet. They are over from Oz for two weeks.

On my way home I took some photos of the sea down at Mount Main Beach and it was really rough with huge waves and I found the gusts of wind very strong coming across the causeway.

I took Tot out again when I got back and she finally seems to be walking properly again well, just a few taps on her bottom and off she goes.

I cooked a stir fry for dinner and then we watched Lewis.

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud and strong gusts 25 degrees

A cloudy day today!

Jon was up and ready early today and I was not long after him.

I spent the morning doing washing and housework. I took the dog to the vet at 10.45 as she has an itchy bottom again and had me up twice in the night. He cleaned her bottom and then gave her an injection for her ongoing leg problem and some cream and told me to start her on the steroids again. We got back home and I took her out for a walk as she has put 400grms on since last time she was at the vet and I am sure it is because she does not walk so much now.

I did a bit more housework and when I looked out of the window it had started to rain so I had to rush and get my three loads of washing in. Fortunately, it was nearly all dry.

I had some lunch and then went over to take some recycling and then to pick up my jeans and trousers from the dressmaker. I also met Les and we had a coffee and went to the health food shop.

When I got back I did the ironing and made the bed with clean sheets and then cooked some chicken in a tomato sauce for out dinner which we had with silverbeet.

As our clocks have changed it was getting dark after six and I had all the lights on, I hate it when the clocks change. The weather forecast is for a storm to come down from Fiji so the Easter weather looks like being wet so I don't think the East Cape will be nice in the rain. I am glad we didn't plan to go to Fiji as they are flooded again with a possible cyclone on the way.

We had dinner and watched TV. Jon had an email from Heather saying that somebody had scratched her new car. She came online on MSN and had a quick chat to me and she is really upset about her car, what a shame, some people are so mean.

WEATHER
Cloudy and windy with some rain 21 degrees

A quiet day

Well we didn't get our extra hour in bed this morning as Totty was awake and needed to get up so that was it!

I cooked some scrambled eggs for breakfast and then after giving Tot a bathe we took her out for her walk.

We went to the garden centre for out coffee and also to buy some silver beet to plant.

Back home Jon went into the garden and worked really hard clearing up and hopefully we will enjoy a pretty garden next summer.

He came in very late from the garden and very dirty so had a shower. You can certainly notice the clock change as it is getting dark by 6.00 now.

I cooked some chicken, broccoli and pasta for dinner and it was very good.

We watched TV and were just about to finish watching the last episode of Whitechapel and Heather called. So after an hour long chat it was too late to finish it - tomorrow!

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud and drizzle late afternoon 22 degrees