New Years Eve

Met Bud the corgi in the park this morning. He is such a roly poly dog but very sweet. I think he needs to play with Totty a bit more as it is the only time he seems to run!

Went out to Pak n Save to see if I could get some duck for dinner tonight. The man in the shop said 'We had some last week and we will have some next week' and I told him that wouldn't help me for our dinner tonight. Ah well it will have to be chicken breasts instead. Hopefully Jane is bringing me some juniper berries and if I ever manage to buy duck breasts again I will be able to make this recipe with the correct ingredients.

I bought Jon some Lemsip Max and hopefully we can get rid of his cold before we go away.

After lunch I finally manged to get my cake iced, snow scene of course. I wasn't rushing as I don't need it till Jane gets here as it is more for her than us. Shame I couldn't get any Kiwi cake decorations for it though.

I had a nice hour sitting on the deck this afternoon in my bikini. I am trying to get the tops of my arms brown so I can wear some of my sleeveless dresses when we go away. My legs and the bottoms of my arms are fine but I have a definite T shirt line which I need to get rid of.

Jon came home early today, 4.30 but was still the last to leave the office! They have an easy life here.

We had a nice dinner and watched a good programme on TV about the last decade - what a lot has happened. Time is a funny thing cos some of the things seem like only yesterday.

I fell asleep watching TV and woke up and thought it was 11.00 but it was just coming up to midnight but the TV programme was very subdued. Then the fireworks started and we could see the ones in Tauranga and also the Mount and they were very good. Called across to our neighbours to say Happy New Year while they were out watching the fireworks on their balcony. However, I missed singing Auld Lang Syne with Roger who always repeated it again and again and it used to make us all laugh. I think we will have to do something next year as it all feels a bit flat. Jon has now gone to bed and I don't feel like we have had New Year. This must be the first time since I was a little girl that I haven't been at a party or had friends over for dinner. Oh well you can't have everything.

WEATHER

It was a lovely sunny morning but not as hot and muggy as it has been. Sun was very strong in the afternoon but we had a cool breeze in the evening.

Busy day at the Red Cross Shop

I managed to get up extra early so that I could wash my hair and get Totty out before I went to the shop.

I had to collect the keys from the bar down the road and opened the lock but couldn't get the door to open and after a few minutes found a big padlock under a metal cover on the door so eventually I managed to get in. Did the till and found the light switches so all was well. The young girl who was supposed to be working with me didn't turn up and so by 9.30 I phoned Bianca and she suggested I call her at home which I did and her dad told me she had a bad back and would not be in - thanks for letting us know! As one person is not allowed to be on their own in the shop, for safety reasons, one of the young men from the processing room came up till Sharon came in at 10.00. After that we were so busy we didn't stop all morning but I really enjoyed it.

I left the shop at 1.30 and went to buy some parsnips for mash tonight. By the time I got home it was2.30 and I was very hungry.

It was so hot this afternoon but I did manage to get some washing done, which I now realise is still on the line! I cleaned the bathrooms and then sat and watched Ellen on TV, I really like her show.

Jon came home and we took Totty out. Jon has a cold but as it is his first since being here he can't complain but he does sound a bit thick.

Heather phoned as she is going to be away at Justine's and is also working on NY Day so not sure when we will get to speak to her.

Well it is far too dark to go and get my washing in so I just hope we don't have any rain tonight.


WEATHER
Very warm but very windy today, in fact it was near gale force but hot which was very odd. By bedtime the wind had dropped a lot.

Some nice cool weather!

It rained a lot last night so it was quite wet underfoot when I took Totty out. I was up early to take her on a 'cool' walk but as it happened I didn't need to as it was much cooler anyway.

When I got back I called my sister and we had a long chat, it never ceases to amaze me how easily women can talk but men find it much more difficult.

I tried to call the gynae secretary but she was not in so had to leave a message.

I went into Tauranga to take Jon's trousers to be shortened but the shop is closed till 5 Jan. I had a coffee and a quick look around the shops before going to the supermarket to get a few bits and pieces.

When I got back the secretary had rung and had given me another appointment for 11 Feb which unfortunately, I cannot do either as we are away with Malcolm so I had to call her back again and leave another message.

Jon came home and we had a nice Greek salad for lunch. The secretary called and she has now put me in for 18 February. I had hoped I could be seen before that but as we are away so much over the next few weeks it is difficult.

Jon took his trousers to a repair shop over at Bayfair on his way back to work to see if they are open and it saves me going out again. They were open and they will have then done for Thursday.

I did my ironing this afternoon and it was a good day to do it as it was much cooler though by the time I had finished the sun had come out again and it got up to 27 degrees.

I wanted to cook two lamb shanks for dinner tomorrow and the recipe was for the oven but there is no way I wanted the oven on when it is so hot so I cooked them on the top and they seem to be OK, we'll find out tomorrow.

We had some fish for dinner with salad. I felt so bloated and full yesterday so we are on slimming meals for the next few days and no alcohol.

I started a really good book yesterday and I am finding it hard to put down it is so good.

I have put Totty on dried food again to see if that helps her bottom scratching problem but so far she has not eaten it. I suppose she will when she is hungry.

WEATHER
After overnight rain it was much cooler today. We had a few light showers during the day but nothing much. The sun came out in the evening but then it clouded over again. Still 22 degrees at 8.00 and only expected to get down to 18 so we are in for a warm and humid night.

Monday - nearly back to normal.

We got up and Jon did a bit on online banking and we had breakfast. He phoned Malcolm to talk to him about hotels and things for when he comes over. He has not been well and was admitted to hospital just before Christmas due to palpitations. He is OK now but needs to go back and see his GP. Hopefully he will be fine when he comes out here.

It was rather late and really hot by the time we got Totty out and she really didn't like it. We walked around the park and then came back.

We went into Tauranga to see if the dressmaker was open but it wasn't so I will have to go in again tomorrow to take Jon's trousers to have them shortened as he would like them to go to Oz. We then went for coffee and I had an iced coffee and it was very good.

We then went to buy some towels as I don't have enough really big ones for when Jane and Malcolm come over. We got some really big bath sheets for £3 each in the sale. Egyptian cotton, made in India for a NZ company. The cotton has done some miles to get here.

We then popped over to Bayfair and bought some lettuce and bananas, they go off so fast here you can only buy them a few at a time.

By the time we got back we were very hot so we had lunch and then I just sat on the deck in my sun lounger and read my book and it was very pleasant.

I made a chilli and then we took Totty out for a cooler walk than she had this morning.

We had dinner and I had no wine tonight so I managed to stay awake to watch the second part of Oliver Twist which was very good.

WEATHER
Really hot and muggy all day. The TV said Tauranga had got up to 27 which is shade temperature so it felt much hotter. We didn't get the showers they forecast just a few drops of rain before bedtime.

The day after Boxing Day

We took Totty out for a walk and then went off to Hamilton for the day.

We went to the gardens first and saw a sign that advertised a boat cruise picking up from the jetty at the gardens at 2.30 so thought we would do that after lunch. We walked around the gardens and they were somewhat different to when we last visited in June with Heather - lots more flowers in the summer! It was very warm walking round the gardens.

We had a nice salad sitting out near the lake and then went down to wait for the boat. A flat, motor driven platform turned up and we panicked thinking it was the boat!!!! Anyway after a very difficult process he managed to tie it up to the jetty and the boat arrived. I really didn't like the look of it and as it was crowded we decided not to bother.

We drove into Hamilton and had a nice walk along the river and actually caught up with the boat and I just felt better walking alongside it.

We went into the shopping centre to look for an ice cream shop and eventually found one. After eating our ice cream we got in the car and drove home and had a nice cup of tea. When we got home it was 29.5 degrees in the living room poor Totty, just as well she can go downstairs to the cool if she wants to.I hadn't taken anything out of the freezer for dinner and we couldn't be bothered going out to buy anything so I just defrosted some lamb and Rosemary sausages and we had them with salad and some mixed berries and meringue sitting outside as it was still very warm.

WEATHER

Really overcast and windy today, hard to believe it was so hot yesterday. Sky cleared later and it was very warm again.

Boxing Day

I was up late this morning and regretting drinking yesterday. Took Totty out to the park and it was very quiet there this morning but that could be due to the tide being out.

We went down to Bayfair as Jon needed some chinos and the sales started today. The traffic was queuing a long way back to get in the car park, we have never seen that here before! We eventually manged to park and the shops were really busy. We bought the chinos and then some new sunglasses for me and then looked for a hat for Jon but couldn't find one. We then went and bought some meat for a BBQ as I had forgotten to take it out of the freezer. We did think we would go to the cinema tonight and have dinner at a Thai restaurant but decided to do that tomorrow.

We got back for a very late lunch and then spent the rest of the afternoon reading, very peaceful.

Took Totty out again and then came back and Jon cooked the dinner. We have had some really good BBQs since we came here and it was good tonight with chicken satay kebabs and lamb chops. We had one of the little Christmas puddings from the hamper and it tasted very good.

We then watched the Royale Family Christmas special and I fell asleep but what I saw was very funny but I did see it last year!

WEATHER

Another clear, sunny day to start and it got very warm - 29.5 - and muggy in the evening and warm enough to eat outside again.

Christmas Day

Woke up early as I was excited about our first Christmas Day in New Zealand. We had scrambled eggs and smoked salmon for breakfast while we were waiting for the girls to come online. We wanted to open our present from Kirsty and James while they were watching and as they were over at his parents decided to take the dog out first.

We were very surprised at how many people were in Rotary Park some already using the BBQs to cook breakfast. It was really warm and Totty was puffing and panting in her new collar.

When we got back we had a chat to our neighbours who were just going off to her mum's batch at the beach and the little girl, Greer had a new doll and pushchair and Petra was wobbling about on her new roller blades and Flynn showed us his new, blue wetsuit which he is so excited about. I had bought them a big box of Cadbury's mini bars and they were very pleased with them. We later found a bottle of wine and a box of home made truffles on our doorstep which was very nice of them.

When we got back we had a video call with the Kirsty, Heather and James and opened our present which is a huge hamper with lots of goodies in. They were getting ready to go out and some friends of theirs arrived so we said Happy Christmas to them all and then we made a call to Roger and Mary. It was lovely speaking to them and we had a long chat and said hello to Roger's sister, brother-in-law and his mother. And we found out about a big secret but I can't say yet on here but will in a few days.

It was now nearly lunchtime so we packed our picnic and set off for the beach. There weren't many cars on the road and the beach was quite quiet when we arrived but did get busier as they day went on. We set up our new little half tent and enjoyed a day on the beach and took a few photos with our Christmas hat on.

We were amused for a time watching two couples taking photos. They had brought down a Santa costume and a reindeer costume which they took turns in dressing up. They also brought down a small Christmas Tree and decorated it. Then they went down nearer the water and built a snowman out of sand and dressed him up and then took more photos. This went on for sometime and we decided that it was a mum and dad over from the UK (we guessed by the accent) to visit daughter and son-in-law and were taking the photos to send back home. Well it was good entertainment for us!

We enjoyed our picnic and our little bottle of bubbly but by 4.00 we felt hot and sticky and very sandy and although we had been invited to drop by and see Les and her family we felt too messy to do it so will have to leave that for another day.

After a nice shower and a cup of tea we felt much better. My neighbour, Margaret had left a message on the answerphone inviting us round for Christmas cake and wine but we didn't go but it was nice of her to ask.

We were supposed to go over to Bronwyn for coffee at 6.30 but Peter called to ask us if we could make it later and suggested 8.00. So we rearranged our plans and we made dinner and had that first sitting out on the deck and had some very nice fish, a different Christmas dinner but we enjoyed it.

We got over to Bronwyn and her daughter and son-in-law were just finishing the dishes. We sat outside and Peter made us a very good Irish coffee and I had some very good summer pudding that Bronwyn had made. Bronwyn was very subdued for her and she told me later that Peter had had a bad day which I suppose is why they had been so late with their dinner. I hope he feels better today, he has been so well lately. We had a lovely time with her family and left to call the girls at about 9.30.

We finally spoke to the girls and watched them opening their stockings which was lovely and they all seem so happy. We were amazed to see the size of the rabbits and how the cat is with them, he ignores them! So then they were all off to their various places for dinner.

We went to bed and I was feeling rather tiddly and might regret it tomorrow!

WEATHER
Sun, sun and more sun all day!

Christmas Eve

Woke up early this morning, must be the excitement! Took Totty out and then went up to the kennels to take them a box f chocolates and a card from Totty!

I had to pop in to the supermarket to buy some beans to bake my flan case blind as I didn't have any. I bought a nice bottle of beer for Jon in the Liquor Store and sat and had a coffee in the sun and thought about the last year. It is hard to believe that this time last year I was a nervous wreck about coming over here and now it has all turned out really well and we are very happy. The shops were busy but nothing like the UK at Christmas. A new sushi bar has opened at Fraser Cove so I went in and bought some for Jon and I for lunch.

When I got back Peter came over with the picnic rucksack he said we could borrow which has all the bits in, plates, glasses, napkins etc and is very nice. I gave him one of the packets of truffles I had made for him and Bronwyn.

A lovely arrangement of flowers were delivered to us from Mary and Roger and Jon took some photos of me with them. We have had lots of Christmas cards which is lovely and so kind of people in view of the fact that I have not sent any. I now know who my real friends are!

I stuck some Christmas cards around along the windows and now the house looks very seasonal.

Jon didn't get home till 1.30 and I was very hungry by the time he arrived and the sushi went down very well - we will have that again.

I did a bit of ironing to get it out of the way and then took Totty out and we sat in the park as she was too hot to walk around and she just enjoys being on the grass as we don't have any at the house. When I got back Bronwyn had called and left a message on the answerphone to invite me over for a drink at 4.30. so I quickly made the quiche base and then Jon came home as he said everyone else had left the office. He had a haircut at 5.30 so couldn't come over to Bronwyns with me.

Bronwyn had invited some school friends of her daughter's and their parents over for drinks and they had twin girls of four and a half and they were so cute, like two peas in a pod. Bronwyn's grand-daughter is a really little sweetie, five months old and so placid and happy and I had a lovely cuddle with her. She also invited another couple who were really nice and I think Jon would get on well with. He is a funeral director and Bronwyn knows him through her work as a celebrant. We had some lovely fresh smoked trout that a friend of theirs had caught on Monday and it was really lovely. You can't buy trout here so you have to depend on a 'friend' who goes fishing to get it for you.

We sat and chatted all evening and it was nearly 7.00 before I realised and I thought I had better get home. Jon was back with a short haircut and had set the table for our fish and chips (I know it isn't Friday but it makes life easy). Jon went out for the dinner and I dashed across the road to take the truffles to Alison which I had been trying to get round to all day! They were having dinner so I didn't stay.

It was so warm this evening we were able to have our dinner on the deck. The children next door were out to see their grandparents off (they have a 'batch' - a little house at the beach, down at the Mount but usually live in Auckland but come down here for Christmas) they were so excited and happy, not sure how their mum and dad will ever get them off to bed. At least in the UK it is dark on Christmas Eve but here the children don't want to go to bed early! This is the first night this summer we have been able to sit out for dinner, so glad the wind has dropped.

After dinner I made the quiche for tomorrow and did the fruit salad so we are all ready for our picnic.

I am looking forward to Christmas Day but I also know that I will be feeling sad for the girls but hopefully we can speak to them later, their Christmas morning and see them opening their stocking.

WEATHER

Really mild today a bit cloudy to start but by the evening clear blue skies and very warm.

Swimming in the rain!

I was up early again this week in time to make my aquacise class for 8.00.

We had another different teacher this morning and I didn't think he would be very good but in actual fact I really enjoyed the class and felt as though I had had a good workout. After the class Les, Carol and I went into the hot pool and it was like getting into a really hot bath. It was made even more surreal by the fact that it started to rain and there we were sitting in a hot bath with the rain coming down on us.

After a shower and getting dressed we went down to meet with some of the other ladies for coffee. I love chatting to all these people as they have nearly all travelled, if not to UK then to other parts of the world. One man there lives in NZ for 6 months and then in OZ for 6 months and in actual fact has an apartment very close to where we are going in January and he tells me it is very nice.

I then went looking for boxes to put the truffles in that I am planning to make for Bronwyn and Alison but I couldn't find any so settled on foil covered card and clear cellophane tied up with ribbon, my Brown Owl skills will come in useful here!

It was then off to the supermarket to get my Christmas shop. It was really quiet in the supermarket and I was able to buy all I needed and go straight to a checkout!

Jon was out to lunch today so I got stuck in to making the truffles. It was not as easy as Jamie Oliver says but in the end they seem to have turned out OK. However, I do not recommend making truffles in hot weather as you end up with chocolate up to your elbows!. I made white chocolate and almond and dark chocolate with brandy and clementine, all very rich but when Jon and I tried them later in the evening we both agreed that they were good enough to give as presents.

Packing the truffles was a tricky job but after a lot of cursing and huffing and puffing I ended up with tow very nice looking packet of truffles.

WEATHER

It was very overcast this morning but warm. Later in the afternoon the sun came out but it was cloudy. We had a few light showers through the day.

Three sleeps to Christmas!!!!

Took Totty out this morning and really miss having my class to go to.

Didn't really do much other than potter about in the house and do a bit of this and that, washing ironing and general cleaning. Since Jon took up cycling I have more T shirts to wash and iron.

Apart from that I can't remember what else I did. Oh I know had a chat with Heather on MSN and answered some email.

I really should do my blog everyday!

WEATHER

Sunny but still windy. The wind became quite cold in the evening.

A New light and drainpipe fixed

I didn't think I would manage a walk all the way to the park and back so I took Totty in the car and we went down to Rotary Park. I don't usually go down there on my own as it is so isolated. There was one elderly man there and then some workmen came to do a bit of work on the walls. She really likes it down there and is happy just to wander around and I sat on a seat.

An electrician turned up this morning to put the new light in the hall that the landlady brought last week. He was really chatty and it didn't take him long. Not sure if you ask them if they want a coffee or not over here, I will have to ask Alison.

A huge parcel arrived by courier this morning. Kirsty had told me to expect one from her and James. It is in a huge box and I am really looking forward to opening it on Christmas Day.

I had a lot of ironing to do today and also more washing, we seem to get through so many clothes. I listened to Wake up to Wogan, the last show which was broadcast on Friday. I really enjoyed it but it was sad, I'll really miss him on the radio even though I listen one day behind on the iplayer. It helped me get through the ironing. I also did my house work and just have to vacuum tomorrow and I am all done.

I popped out to post a parcel to Jon's nephew and wife for their new baby and I also had to get a little present for my 'Secret Friend' in Lions and post that.

I then came back and baked a lemon slice cake. I had found the recipe in one of my magazines and thought it looked good.

Had another knock on the door and this time it was the man to fix the drainpipe which has been broken for months and we have been waiting for her to send a man so now it is all fixed.

Jon came home and put another coat of stain on half of the deck so he will finish that tomorrow.

The weather forecast for Christmas Day is now looking to be very good with big suns all over the North Island so looks like our picnic will be on.

Alison called to invite me over for a cup of tea tomorrow afternoon. I was going to invite her as I had made a cake but now I will go to her and take the cake with me, she has a lovely garden to sit in.

WEATHER.
It was quite cloudy today but warm, it got quite chilly in the evening.

A twisted ankle and deck painting.

We went down to Rotary Park and walked in the woods and I twisted my ankle on a tree root. The pain was unbearable and it made me feel very sick. At one point I thought Jon was going to have to get an ambulance as I couldn't put any weight on it. I sat down for a time and then managed to hobble out of the woods. Jon said he would go and bring the car down to the woods but I eventually managed to walk home on it but it is very swollen and sore.

I didn't do much for the rest of the day. We went out for coffee and to find a flan dish so that I can make my quiche for our Christmas Day picnic. We went to a different supermarket and I was really annoyed to find proper marzipan. I was only able to buy almond flavoured icing on Friday but that will have to do for this year now that I have bought it.

I read my book and put my foot up and Jon got on with painting the deck. It didn't take him long once he got going. It looks much better now but will need another coat tomorrow.

We had a nice BBQ for dinner and some nice meringue and boysenberries for pudding

WEATHER

Although it was sunny we still have a lot of wind. The afternoon was much warmer but we need to get rid of the wind.

Office Christmas Dinner.

We took Totty down to Rotary Park and it was blowing a gale at the far corner further up it was beautiful.

We went into Tauranga to the library and I wanted to buy a black shrug to go with my dress but couldn't find one. It was warm enough to sit outside for coffee.

We wandered round the shops and bought a few bits and pieces then on to the supermarket to buy some wine.

We had lunch and then had a quiet afternoon reading and Jon did a bit of pottering outside.

After taking Totty out I got myself ready for the office dinner.

I said I would drive so Jon could have a drink.

It was a very nice evening and everyone was very friendly. The meal was better than the last time we went there. I ordered steak but it was too big for me to eat so I asked them to put it in a doggy bag and I took it home for Totty. We didn't get home till after 11.00 - very late for NZ and Jon was very drunk so even though we don't drink much now at home he hasn't forgotten how to do it! Still once in a year is not to complain about and he was funny.

The drive home was fine, most of the roads were lit and there is only a short bit with no street lights so I was OK.

WEATHER
A strong windy day even though it was very sunny.

Snow in the UK

I always seem to sleep late on a Friday and Jon never thinks to wake me so I was in a panic this morning when I didn't wake till 7.45 and it was a mad rush as I had to wash my hair. Poor Totty only had a short walk.

I went to the Red Cross and it was very busy there and we didn't stop all morning but I do enjoy it. Bianca came in at 11.00 and gave me a gift card with $20 on it for petrol as a Christmas present from Red Cross, I was so pleased with it.

I went to do my shopping and there are now more Christmas food things in the shop but it wasn't busy even though the children have finished school.

I rushed home and put the shopping away just in time fro Jon to come home for lunch.

Totty is still scratching her bottom so I took her to the vet again. He said the anal glands were fine but gave her a course of antibiotics and an antiinflammatory injection to see if that helps. I bought her a nice red collar for Christmas while I was there but she hasn't seen it yet.

As we were in the car I took her down to Rotary Park and she had a run around there on the beach. I don't usually go there on my own but now it is summer holidays there are more people about.

We had our fish and chips tonight which was very good.

I am a bit worried about Heather getting home. I have told her to wait till Saturday rather than try, one day is not going to make much difference. I hope she listens to me!!!!

WEATHER
It has been sunny and warm all day. Hard to believe they have so much snow back home!

What a night last night turned into!

Well last night was something else. The music was still blasting out at 11.00 and I called the council again and they said they were sending someone out. I went to bed but couldn't sleep as they were singing in the garden and although I couldn't see them because of the trees the noise was awful. At midnight I called again and was told the officer was waiting outside for the police to arrive. I could see my neighbour Margaret by her door so she was still awake. Finally at 12.15 all went quiet and I could hear them in the garden and the police took all the speakers and stereo away. After they left a girl was out in the garden screaming at the neighbours and using the most awful language. I last looked at the clock at 12.30 then fell asleep and she was still screaming.

They get their stuff back after 72 hours so we will have to wait and see what happens then. So glad for this law though or I would have gone round to sort them myself as it was awful.

I got up this morning and had a terrible headache so it is no good going to yoga with a headache so I just took the dog out instead.

I chatted to some friends on the computer and sent out more emails and then in the afternoon scrubbed the chairs on the deck. They look clean but they had a lot of green underneath. They look sparkling now. Jon will do the sunshade at the weekend.

Jon got home at normal time and his flights had been on time so he had been back at the office for a couple of hours.

I have finally found some nice sausages so we had sausages and new potatoes and beans tonight - very English. I can't remember the last time we had potatoes.

It was so nice not to have music blasting out tonight.


WEATHER

It was warm and sunny this morning. We had light cloud during the day but it was hot. Slightly windy in the evening.

Noisy Neighbours

I didn't take Totty out this morning as my class at the pool started at 8.00 so I left the house at 7.30. It was lovely in the pool and we had a really good class. Some of the ladies complain that the teacher is too fast but I think she is good.

After the class we all went across the road to Coffee Club and had coffee and muffins and stayed there till about 11.00. They are a really nice group of women and quite a few are around my age which is nice.

I got back and took Totty out and then wrote more email. I think I have just about sent to everyone I need to now.

I popped into Tauranga this afternoon to buy a little 21 birthday present for one of Heather's friends. They were at St Felix together and she is a lovely girl. The lady in the shop wrapped it for me and I bought a card and put it in the post. You can't send jewellery through the post so I keep telling them it is a keyring, whatever I send is a keyring!

I then went to buy some prawns for my dinner.Jon doesn't like them so I usually have them when he is away and they were very good with garlic and parsley.

We didn't have any noise from the neighbours last night but tonight it started at 5.10 and has gone on all night. I phoned the council at 8.30 and she said they had already had complaints and were sending a man out. I couldn't hear the TV! My neighbour phoned to say she had just spoken to the man from the council in his car. The problem is the flat is in a basement and from the street at the front you can't hear much but at the back which faces our bedroom window and that of my neighbours it is awful. He did go and speak to them and they turned it down but then turned it back up again when he had gone. Margaret has phoned again and they are coming out again. It is just as well it is not too hot tonight as there is no way I could open the window! I really hope they get this sorted out before too long.

Jon called to say he was in a very nice hotel in Whangerai and the flights were very good.

And now I am going to put some ear plugs in and try to sleep!

WEATHER
It was a lovely sunny morning and although rain was forecast we didn't have any.

A cold south wind today

It was really quite cold walking Totty this morning with a south wind blowing.

I went to my keep fit class and once again she worked us really hard. She is a lovely teacher and keeps us all motivated. We all had a lovely chat after the class and all the ladies were talking about their Christmas preparations and I feel a bit of a fraud really as I don't have that much to do.

After the class I came home and dyed my hair which was in desperate need.

Jon wasn't home for lunch as he had a meeting with some people from Australia who gave him a Christmas pudding and a nice bottle of wine. I went to the post office to send the last of my cards and then went and bought some fish for the freezer which will keep us going over the holidays.

I got myself ready in the afternoon for the Lions dinner and was out of the house by 5.30. I picked Janice up and then we went to meet Helen and Jean to drive to the Charterhouse which is where they used to hold their monthly meeting till the price went up.

I was greeter for the evening so had to stand by the door to welcome everyone. The views from the restaurant are very good looking over the harbour and the Mount but I didn't think the food was that much better but it was nice. We had some children from a local school singing for us at the start then we had dinner followed by a quiz and then some jokes from our Tail Twister lady. As I was driving I couldn't have a glass of wine which was a shame. I thought the room was too big for a small group and it lacked atmosphere but that is only my view. I was home by 10.00.

After a cup of coffee I went to bed and read my book.

WEATHER

It was bright and sunny this morning but the wind was coming from the south and so was very cold. The afternoon was much better but there is still a bit of a chill in the air.

A lot of emails

It was raining this morning so I couldn't take Totty out so I took the opportunity to call Sonia in the UK. She was making custard at the end of their dinner so we arranged for me to call bak in 10 minutes which I did and we had a lovely long chat. I also spoke to Jane and Heather on MSN inbetween doing my washing and writing lots of Christmas emails.

Kirsty and James made a video call to me but their camera wasn't working so I couldn't see them but it was nice to talk to them.

I managed to get lunch ready for Jon just in time for him coming home.

After lunch I did some more emails and then took Totty out and sat in the park with her for a little while as she had missed her morning walk.

After the wet start I did manage to get two loads of washing out and brought it in and ironed it all and re made the bed. It was just as well I cleaned so much last week as I didn't need to do much today.

We had spaghetti from the freezer so I didn't have to cook much either.

The man over the back of us seems to rent his downstairs flat out for the summer and the people have been playing loud music till very late for the last three nights. My neighbour, Margaret, called this evening to tell me that her and Pat, another neighbour were complaining to the noise control people at the council and gave me the number to do the same.

I called them and they say if it is still going on in an hour to call back and they will send someone out unless they get two more complaints about the same house. We will see what happens. I don't mind the odd party but three nights in a row is no joke. I seem to remember we had a bit of trouble last year but it was only a couple of nights.

WEATHER
Started wet but very warm and then dried up and it was sunny with some high white clouds and very hot. Down in the South Island they have had major thunder storms and hale the size of golf balls. We may be in for some thunder tomorrow.

First day on the beach this summer!

It was really sunny this morning when we took Totty out and we decided to go to the beach for a couple of hours.

By the time we got down there and had our coffee it had clouded over a little but when the sun was out it was very hot. We nearly gave up and came home at one point as it went very cloudy but then the sun came back out and we were glad we stayed.

On our way back we went to Bunnings which is just like B&Q but the staff are much more helpful. We went to buy paint for the deck as Seleena said she can now afford it and Jon is happy to do it. We had two men telling us how to do it and the best stain to buy. One of the men then took us to the paint brush section to help us with that and he was just so helpful. We bought a few other bits and then went home for lunch which was late again and we were very hungry.

After lunch Jon went and cut some shrubs down that were hanging over our fence and he did a bit of repair on the neighbours fence which is leaning over to my car so he tied it up to her trees as we don't want it to come down on my car!

I wrote some Christmas emails and then in the evening we had another BBQ which was nearly as good as yesterdays!

WEATHER

Really clear sky this morning and sunny. Clouded over mid morning and was a bit chilly. Sun came out again about 12.30 and was lovely for the rest of the day.

House inspection day!

I was up early and showered and hair done and we were out with Totty by 9.00, we are usually much later on Saturdays.

Spoke to Jane this morning and then she had to go and have her take away with Kirsty.

We went out for coffee and then I did my stint selling baubles for the hospice outside Warehouse. Some of the messages are just too sad to read but it is a lovely idea.

We went home to wait for Seleena who didn't turn up till 1.30 and we were starving by that time. She came with her heavily pregnant daughter and her scary partner who was a really big guy with a ring through his lip. She hardly looked at the house but said it all looked fine to her. She took some things from her cupboard downstairs. She is not doing uni now and has a job with an estate agent in property management and will be staying in Auckland. We told her we are staying for four years and she asked if we would want the house and we said yes please so she said she will think about it - fingers crossed.

We had a very late lunch by the time she left it was nearly 3.00.

We then went off to buy Jon a bike as he thinks he would prefer that to jogging. We got a very nice Dunlop bike for £70 and he came back and put it together.

While we were out we also bought our Christmas bottle of wine with a voucher I had from my supermarket loyalty card and three little bottles of sparkling wine for Christmas day - I won't have anyone to help me drink a large bottle as Jon doesn't like it.

We got back and had a cup of tea and then took Totty out.

When we got back Jon cooked a BBQ and it was really good. I had made chicken kebabs in a Thai sweet chilli sauce and pork kebabs in a hoi sin sauce and we had a little lamb chop and the best sausage I have ever had over here. It was lamb with honey and Rosemary. Usually the sausages are pretty solid things but these are very nice and moist so I will try this brand again.

WEATHER.
Warm but overcast for most of the day Sun came out in the evening.

Friday at last

It seems to have been a very long week this week, probably because we have done so much but I am looking forward to a quiet weekend.

After a very hot walk with Totty this morning I phoned the vet to get an appointment for Totty as she has anal glands problems again. She never had this problem in the UK but it is happening every few weeks now.

I went off to the Red Cross and it was really busy all morning. We have new Australian stock in the shop and the takings are up again and the shop I work in is doing really well. (nothing to do with me!)

I then rushed off to the supermarket and got home for lunch at the same time as Jon with bags of shopping! Have I mentioned how much I love my new car?

The weather was now not so hot but I still had to clean the bathrooms ready for house check tomorrow. Cleaning floors on my hands and knees kills my back but it has to be done!

I took Totty off to the vet and he was running late and so I had a nice chat to the people in the waiting room for half an hour, they are all very interested to know how she coped with the flight over here. The vet and all the staff are wearing Christmas uniform - coats made with Father Christmas and snowmen material! It only took a few minutes to sort her problem out and we were off again.

I didn't take her for a walk until Jon came back as it was too warm so I did a bit more of my pile of ironing - nearly there now!

Fish and chips tonight, really good again but I do leave the batter.

WEATHER

It was really hot first thing this morning and then cooled down a little. This evening was overcast but still very warm

Carpet Cleaning Day

It was soooo hot last night. I thought the windows were open but Jon had closed them to vent and it was hot. Jon didn't sleep either.

I had my washing on the line at 7.30 and took Totty out for an early walk. I was looking at my emails and still felt like I was on the boat. I hope it doesn't last too long.

The man came to clean the carpets at 10.30 and did a really good job with them. I hope the house will be satisfactory for the landlady when she comes to inspect on Saturday. The carpet man said it was a beautiful house and very clean so hopefully she will think the same.

Had a chat to Jane on the phone and Heather on MSN. They are getting ready for Christmas now and Heather is working hard at uni. Jane has put the Christmas tree up and can't believe the amount of baubles I usually put on - she got fed up and didn't put them all on!

After lunch I took Totty over to the pet shop and gave her a bath, so even the dog has been spring cleaned!

Caught up with Neighbours and then when it cooled down I started the ironing.

Jon came home about 6.30 and we took Totty out she really doesn't like going out when it is hot and was glad to get back.

Well I have caught up with my blog but still have to put some photos on FB Phew!

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday

SUNDAY.

I kept waking up through the night thinking about what they would be doing at Kathryn's wedding, it was really strange.

We managed to get ourselves on the road by 9.50 after taking Totty for a walk we took her up to the kennels where the girls there told me she was very well behaved and happy while she was with them so that is nice to know.

We set off on our six hour trek and stopped in Matamata for a coffee. The journey as far as Auckland was pretty boring as we have done it so many times. However, once we reached the Harbour Bridge, which we had to go over, it was more interesting. We stopped for lunch at a service area where we also had to buy the ticket for the new toll road. You can buy as many trips as you want so we got a return to save stopping on the way back. It was only $2 each way but it is not a very long stretch of road but worth paying.

We finally arrived in Pahia around 4.00 and checked into our hotel which was very nice. We then walked into the town and had a really good cup of tea and a piece of carrot cake overlooking the bay. We then had a little walk around the town and then went back for a shower and got ready for dinner.

It was a lovely evening but a bit windy. We went to a place called the Swiss Chalet for a drink and the food looked really good so we stayed for dinner which was really nice. We started with calamari and then we had a Fijian fish called Miah miah. It was a very chunky fish and no bones. A friendly cat finished mine as it was so much. Pudding was a lovely fruity, boozy dessert and it was no wonder I couldn't walk a straight line back to the hotel. I haven't felt like that for a very long time. The waitress was very nice, too. she was from Liverpool and came over here in August and loves it and wants to stay and travel but she keeps spending all her wages so she hasn't gone anywhere yet!

MONDAY

Well I didn't sleep very well as I am not used to drinking now and I didn't feel as good as I could have. We went off for breakfast and I felt a bit better. I just can't take it anymore!

We went to visit the Waitangi Treaty House which is at the far end of the bay and set in lovely grounds. On the way in one of the staff at the door asks you where you are from and whether you want to see the cultural show and/or have a guided tour. We told her we were Brits but living in NZ and so because we are residents here we did not have to pay. The Treaty House is a very important part of NZ's history for it is here in 1840 that a treaty was signed between the British and the Maori chiefs that finally brought some stability. The treaty was signed by 45 chiefs on the day and then copies were sent out all over NZ and more than 500 chiefs signed. The treaty is still part of NZ law today and 6 February, Waitangi Day is a public holiday. The house itself is very old (by NZ standards) and is very interesting. After a stop in the cafe for coffee we went to see some small waterfalls just outside Pahia called Haruru Falls then back to the hotel where we were being picked up for the cruise.

A bus took us down to the Maritime office in Pahia and we checked in and then we were told to go and get some lunch and another bus would pick us up at 1.00. We managed to get a sandwich but Pahia was very busy as a big cruise ship was moored in the bay and there were a lot of 'cruise shaped' people about eating large quantities of fish and chips. I don't think I would like big ship cruising.

We got on our bus and headed along the coast to a little town called Opua where we boarded our ship. There were only 28 passengers and the ship can take 60 so it was nice and quiet. The ship was lovely, new and clean and very plush. The cabins were much bigger than we thought they would be and we had three big windows. After a brief safety talk we unpacked and set sail. We went up on the top deck and sat in the sun and had a cup of tea and a muffin while we watched the world go by. It was very calm and we sailed for a couple of hours with the captain telling us about the islands as we passed by. There are 140 islands in the bay. Some of them have one or two houses on them but in the main they are all nature reserves. We moored in a lovely little bay and some passengers went kayaking some went snorkeling and we were taken across to the beach in a little boat.

The beach was lovely and the water a beautiful blue. Jon and I climbed to the top of a very, very steep hill and the views across the bay, in both directions, were stunning. Back down on the beach we were very grateful for the water the staff had brought across for us. There was a Kiwi couple on the beach and they were in big kayaks and had started from the Coromandel and were intending to sail right around the North Island. Good luck to them I say, you end up with a wet bottom in kayaks!

Back on the ship we set sail again to the bay we would moor in for the night we had a shower and dressed for dinner. We sat with a very nice young Irish couple who were on their honeymoon having got married on 6 November. They had been down to the South and were then going on to Fiji and USA before returning to Dublin in time for Christmas.

Dinner was OK but not brilliant and once they start charging full price for the trip they will have to do better. There was plenty to choose from but as we were only 28 the chef would have been better offering less choice and better quality but it wasn't really awful and I managed to get something I enjoyed Jon was not so happy.

After a very long and busy day we were not late to bed!

TUESDAY

After a good night's sleep we were up at 7.00 and I was feeling very rocky. It was like I was on a really rough sea but after some Sea Legs that eased. We sat out at the back of the ship for breakfast which was full English and fine with plenty of tea and coffee. Some dolphins came into the bay while we were having breakfast but they didn't come very close to the boat. We set sail and the captain said he was going to try and find the dolphins for us and we did just around in the next bay. There were so many of them with babies too. They seemed to be having a wonderful time jumping out of the water but it was hard to catch them on photos. When the boat went faster to leave they were racing alongside and I managed to get some photos of them. It was really magical and everyone enjoyed seeing them.

After another couple of hours sailing it was time to head back to port. A lovely trip over too soon. We docked again in Opua and a bus took us back to Pahia. We went to the hotel and checked in again to a different room. After unpacking we were off out again down to the jetty where we had a coffee at the little bar overlooking the water and we saw a huge stingray swimming about at the edge.

We then went to get the ferry across the bay to a lovely little town called Russell, once known as the 'hellhole of the Pacific' because of all the seamen who used to work on the whaling ships. We had a walk around and visited the museum which was fascinating. We then went to visit the oldest church in NZ 1832 I think it was so not really that old.

We sat in a bar at the waters edge and had a lovely cold beer and a sandwich. After lunch we walked up to Flagstaff Hill - another steep climb. This is the hill where a Maori chopped down the flagpole in protest of the British not once but four times! The British gave up after the fourth time and moved further up the coast but won it back again at a later date and the pole has been there ever since.

We were by this time really tired so went back on the ferry to Pahia and walked to the hotel. Jon had a sleep and I went for a swim in the hotel pool which I had all to myself and it was very peaceful. The weather has been really warm and was now very hot.

After a shower we were off out for dinner to a restaurant overlooking the bay and we had some lovely calamaris cooked with lime and ginger then I had fish and Jon had steak. I had a lovely almond and orange cake for pudding. I think I will need to go on a diet when we get home!

WEDNESDAY

I slept better last night as I didn't drink too much. We had a much better breakfast at the hotel today with lots of fresh fruit. When we stayed here on Sunday night there was a big coach party in and it was a bit chaotic.

We set off just after 9.00 and it was really hot. What would we do without air conditioning. We stopped in Kawkawa to have a look at the most photographed toilets in NZ. Designed by and Austrian, Hundertwasser who lived near there for 25 years. They are a work of art with lots of glass bottles and tiles in the design.

We then went on to Whangarei where we stopped to have a look around the Town Basin which is an area of sweet little shops and cafes around the harbour and of course we stopped for our coffee and a very good berry muffin.

Now it was the longest part of the journey and it seemed to take forever. We stopped at a nice spot for lunch high in a forest overlooking the valley, very pretty. The rest of the journey was a drag and the traffic going through Auckland was stop start but we did manage to get back in time to pick Totty up before the kennels closed.

Jon popped out to the supermarket to get some lamb chops and I sorted the washing out. I don't know how we create so much washing when we have only been away four days!

It was a very hot and sticky night.

Kathryn's wedding day.

After chatting to Heather on MSN for ages we had a bit of a late start.

We took Totty for a damp walk and then went into Tauranga to have coffee and then buy some new shorts and a pullover for Jon and we also found four very nice shirts so he has all he needs now. I went to a jeweller to ask if he could repair my earring. He did it there and then and would not take any money, very nice man.

After a busy morning of shopping and having to park the car on the top floor due to Bay Fair being so busy (we have never had to do that) we finally got back for lunch at 2.00.

After lunch I did some ironing and got a few bits ready for packing. Jon washed the outside windows, ready for our house check next week.

Had some sad news about the husband of one of our Lions. He had a severe stroke last night and died in Auckland hospital. I didn't know him but she is a lovely lady and it is very sad.

Got all our things packed and then had dinner so hopefully not much to do in the morning.

Probably won't get to write anything else till Wednesday night.

I hope Jane has a lovely day as a bridesmaid at Kathryn's wedding.

WEATHER
After an awful lot of heavy rain through the night this morning was really cold and miserable. After lunch the weathr was much brighter and by afternoon it was bright sun and really warm again - mad!

The weather has got to get better soon

Managed to get Totty out for a quick walk before going out to the Red Cross.

We were very busy in the shop putting stock out and with customers.

After the shop I went along to the garage to get the wipers on my car looked at, he had to put new blades on them and now they work very well.

Got back just in time for Jon coming home.

After lunch I went to Fraser Cove and bought some new cropped trousers and short and T shirts and posted more Christmas cards and then did a small shop at the supermarket. AS we are going away we don't need much.

Got back and took Totty out and then Jon was home. Where did the day go.

Really good fish and chips tonight.

WEATHER
Very cold and very wet, just like winter again today.

Goodbye Windy

Nice and warm on our walk this morning. and we were out very early.

My friend from Spain contacted me to say she was going to Skype me so I had to be quick. Unfortunately, I had misunderstood and when I got back from our walk she had already called so I missed her and then she was out so will have to try and get a call in another day.

Went to my yoga class and it was the sister of the usual teacher today. She was very good and managed to get me into positions that I would never have thought possible!

After the class I went to collect Les and brought her home to get Windy. After showing her what was what on the car. I drove ahead of her back to the Mount as she was not sure of the way. I then rushed back to get lunch for Jon.

After lunch I went to Bay Fair and posted my Christmas cards and then went to have my hair cut. Still not sure if I like the way she cuts it.

When I got home I popped over to see Bronwyn and took her the whisky Jon had brought back from Oz. She is fine but has been busy and has had four funerals and a wedding over the last couple of weeks which is why I haven't been able to pin her down.


WEATHER
It has been very overcast and cold today.

A day indoors.

I slept in this morning so it was a good job I wasn't going swimming!

I took Totty out for her walk and then came back and answered a lot of emails and then did my ironing. Jane called me and we had a nice chat on the phone for about an hour.

After lunch I wrote the few Christmas cards that I am sending and wrote a letter to go in with them. It will cost a silly amount of money to send my usual amount of cards so I hope people will be happy with a Christmas email.

Took Totty out again but got a bit wet.

Jon was home by 8.00 and we had dinner. He told me about the flight out to Melbourne on Emirates Airlines and how he was upgraded and how good the food was. He brought the menu back and it looks lovely, can't wait till we fly with them in January.


WEATHER
Lots of cloud and showers still very humid.

New Car Today

I slept very well last night and it was helpful that Totty didn't get up through the night. It was Totty's birthday today. I should have got a special dinner for her but she will have to make do with the bed we bought her on Saturday.

We were out for an early walk this morning and it was still very humid.

I went to my class early as I wanted to ring the consultants office when it opened so I sat in my car and used my mobile so I could catch them early. I was offered an appointment for next Tuesday but of course we are away so she offered the next Tuesday but I was so worried I asked if she had a cancellation for today which she did for 3.30 so I took that.

I did my class and it was really warm in the hall and I was relieved when it was finished.

I got home and called the garage to say I was in and they could deliver my car anytime. They arrived at 1.00 and it is really nice.

I went out to the doctors and he was really nice. I explained I had the same problem 13 years ago and had been checked every year until 2006 when I was signed off. He examined me and did a biopsy told me I would need them removing and that would be with a general anaesthetic. I can either continue with him privately or he will refer me to a consultant in the public sector. He said I would be OK to wait for a few months and everything would be OK but they have to be removed or they may turn to full blown cancer. He was very reassuring and I felt much better after I had seen him. The cost would be $2,200 plus the anaesthetist and he can do it in December. I will need to wait for the biopsy results and then find out how long the waiting list is and then decide on my next move. I am one very relived lady tonight!

The hardest part about this was not having anyone to tell so I was very pleased when Jon called to speak to me from Melbourne. I also popped in to speak to Alison on my way home and she was very kind. She is a woman of few words but is a very good listener and it really helped. She also told me she was glad we would be staying for the four years which was nice of her. She also liked my new car!

Not going swimming tomorrow, not a good idea after the biopsy. Les has transferred the money to the bank and has the car insured so I will go over and pick her up and bring her back here to get the car and then I will drive in front of her so she can follow and find her way back. She is looking forward to being able to get around a bit more.

WEATHER
Showers this morning then brighter then more showers this afternoon. Still humid.

Very Humid Monday

The weather was really humid this morning and by the time I got Totty out it was a horrible drizzle.

I set to and started on my spring clean ready for inspection and I cleaned all the cupboards and drawers out and washed the outsides of them so that is the kitchen done. I did my washing but had to use the dryer as it was raining.

Jon came back for lunch early as he had to transfer the money for the car, They will deliver it to me tomorrow as they are cleaning it today. Jon left at 2.00 to get his 3.00 flight to Auckland.

I had to go to the doctor this afternoon and she has referred me to a gynaecologist. She said it would probably take about six weeks so I decided to see one privately. I tried to make the appointment when I got back but they are closed until tomorrow. I hope I can get an appointment soon.

Jon called me from Auckland to say that he had been upgraded and so was looking forward to the flight. He was flying Emirates so will be able to tell me what is in store when we fly with them in January.

Had another soggy walk with Totty this evening.

Had my dinner and watched TV

WEATHER
Started with drizzle this morning followed by some heavy rain but dry and overcast by the evening. Very humid

A good golf lesson at last.

I thought I would have a lie in this morning but I was awake at 7.00 as usual so I got up and showered. The weather was a bit better but still windy.

We thought Heather was going to call us as we had planned with her but she came online and said she was watching the XFactor so we took Totty out after having a quick chat to Jane on MSN.

We went down to Bay Fair and the coffee was far too strong today and I couldn't drink it. We bought a shoe rack for the hall as I am fed up with the shoes making the floor dirty. We have had an email from Saleena, the landlady, to say she would like to come and check the house at the beginning of December and also to pick up some of her things she still has stored here. I will have to make sure it is all nice and clean when she comes.

We got back home and had our planned chat with Heather which was nice. She seems to be working very hard at the moment.

After lunch Jon cleaned my car ready to sell to Les as hopefully I will get my new one on Monday. I did the ironing .

We went for a golf lesson at 3.30. We are now the proud owners of a glove each. Andy also put a different grip on my club and gave Jon a different one and then we went out to the practice fairway. Andy had me throwing my golf club away from me as he says my grip is too tense. It was really funny to see but it seems to have made a difference and when I went back to hitting the ball I did really well. Jon says he seemed to go backwards though.

Back home we took Totty down to Rotary Park and it was a really lovely evening the best weather we have had over the weekend.

Jon got his things ready to go to Melbourne tomorrow and I made dinner which was a chilli from the freezer.

Book Sale Day

I was up very early today - 6.30! I had to be at the book sale at 7.45 so had to leave at 7.30 to get there. Fortunately there wasn't much on the roads at that time so I made it quite easily.

I couldn't believe it when I got to Bethlehem there were people waiting on the pavement, some had been there since 6.45 and were sitting on chairs outside when Lois arrived. A bit like the dealers at car boot sales in the UK.

We went in and were given our instructions for the day and then the doors were opened and it was like a rugby scrum. People swarmed in with boxes and small cases on wheels and soon filled them up. There were tow separate couples who obviously had book shops or stalls and they bought so many. One couple spent $200 and the other just under $1000. There was a steady stream of people until I left at 11.30 so it looked like it was going to be a big success.

I dashed home and got changed and Jon took me over to the Classic Flyers for the Red Cross lunch. Most people were already seated when I got there and fortunately Les had saved me a seat. I was looking forward to a glass of wine when Les told me that no alcohol was allowed. A silly idea if you ask me. Surely everyone should be responsible for themselves after all the average age was at least 60 so nobody was going to get drunk. Red Cross say they can't be held responsible so we couldn't drink. I'd have driven myself had I known that!

We started with the local MP giving a talk and he was soooo boring. It was more like an election talk. They then had presentations and by now I was really hungry - breakfast was a long time ago. We finally started to eat at about 1.30. We had lasagne and salad followed by some very nice cakes and chocolate sweets. Then some children came and sang Christmas Carols in Maori and listening to Silent Night and Jingle Bell Rock in Maori was lovely. As lunches go it was not the best but it was interesting to meet the other volunteers that I don't get to work with.

Jon came to pick me up and we went to look for some short sleeved shirts for him and we also bought a nice new bed for the dog.

Back home we had a cup of tea and then took Totty out. I hasn't been very good weather wise this afternoon and was still overcast and windy.

We had some good lamb chops and salad for dinner.

First Kiwi Christmas party

Well it was still very windy this morning but at least it was warm wind. Totty only had a short walk again this Friday as I was rushing to get ready for Red Cross and my clothes to change into for the keep fit party.

We had a busy morning at the shop and Les is very pleased to be getting my car.

I got changed and set off for the Citizens Club just along the road. When I arrived there were already lots of people there, many of the ladies had brought their husbands. I spotted Joan, I met her when I was first here, sitting on her own at a table of four. She was waiting for two friends so I asked if I could sit with them. The tables were set very nicely and it was all very festive. We had a really good time with lots of laughing. The meal was very good, gammon and potatoes, veg and salad followed by Christmas pudding with lovely Kiwi custard. It was lovely to see all the ladies dressed in proper clothes instead of gym kit.

The lunch ended at about 2.30 and I went to to a bit of shopping, we don't need much as Jon is going away on Monday.

Jon came home from work with the good news that he has bought my car and I should be able to have it on Monday.

It was too hot to take Totty out so I waited until Jon came home and we went down to Rotary Park where there were two families using the public BBQs and it smelt very good.

We had fish and chips but I only had fish and a few chips as I was full from lunchtime.

It said on the news that there had been a series of earthquakes near Tauranga at 4.30 this afternoon but I didn't feel anything.

It is still very windy tonight and the forecast is not good for tomorrow.

I have to be up at 6.30 tomorrow as I need to be at the book sale for 8.00. I hope I don't sleep in!

Thursday

It was sooooo windy through the night and I eventually had to get up and close the window as it was blowing the blind about and it was making a noise and kept waking me. It was very sunny with clear skies when we got up but still very windy.

Jon called from the car showroom to say the man could come out this morning to have a look at my car to give us a price for it so I had to cancel my yoga class.

Totty and I nearly got blown away on our walk but it was very warm.

The man came out and looked at the car and Jon called me later to say they had offered $2,500 so I think we will sell it to Les for that.

Jon couldn't make it home so I had my lunch and then went out to Bethlehem where the Lions are holding the book sale and I spent the afternoon helping there. They have thousands of books and lots of CDs, DVDs and jig saw puzzles and games so hopefully we should make a lot of money.

I got back about 5.00 very dirty and tired so had a cup of tea before taking Totty out and it was still very windy.

I finally managed to speak to Les who says yes she definitely wants the car, which is good.

We had some really good fish for dinner and strawberries for pudding.

Wednesday

We had an email from Heather to say thank you for her presents and to tell us she would be online later. Unfortunately, I am going for a aquacise class and Jon is going to be at work so we will have to arrange a chat for a later date.

I went out early as I had to get to the Mount for a 9.00 start. It was a bit cloudy but the sun came out and the pool was very warm. I met Les who had come along with a lady called Carol who turned out to be the lady who was my partner at yoga last week! The class was really good and I enjoyed it very much. I will need to put sun cream on next week as I caught a lot of sun on my back. After the class you can use the other pools and so I got out of the pool with the intention of going over to the big hot pool but I felt very strange just like I had spent an hour on a pedalo and drunk a bottle of wine at the same time, very weird. I managed to stagger to the pool and after a little sit down regained my balance. The pool was really hot and as the sun was now very hot we got out and had a cool shower.

Les and I went across the road for a coffee and she tells me she is still very keen to buy my car when I get a new one. I drove her home and then went home myself. I managed to have a chat to Heather on MSN and she told me about all her presents.

When Jon came back at lunchtime he told me he would bring a Ford Fiesta home for the night for me to try. It looks really nice.

I caught up with Neighbours and had a read in the afternoon before taking Totty out for her walk. We spent a long time sitting in the sun in the park and it was very pleasant until she spotted a cat in a garden and tried to get to it.

The Fiesta is really nice and we went out for a drive and I loved it so Jon will have a chat to the garage tomorrow and see what price he can get.

Heather's 21 birthday today

I didn't feel very well this morning and was not sure I wanted to go to my keep fit class but after taking Totty for a walk I felt better and so got ready until I went to put my trainers on and realised that they were in Jon's car so I couldn't go anyway. I had to go to the class to pay for my Christmas lunch and it was really funny when I walked in wearing 'proper' clothes.

After paying for my lunch I decided to pop into Tauranga and pick up my jeans that I had left for shortening. I had a little look around the shops and of course stopped for a coffee and then headed home.

I set to to make the gingerbread for the youth camp project for Lions and was very pleased with the result.

It was really, really hot again today, worse than yesterday, I miss having a garden to go out into, the deck is full sun and not the same.

On my way back from walking Totty Peter stopped me and invited me over for a drink but as I was going out to Lions I had to refuse.

I left to pick Janice up and then we met Jean and Helen. Helen was driving and she still makes me very nervous but I do like her, she is so funny.

We had an ex Beefeater giving the talk and he was very good and I learned more about London Tower than I had ever known. He is the only ever Kiwi Beefeater there has ever been and he did the job for 17 years coming back to NZ in January this year.

Lions have a lot on at the moment and tempers are a bit frayed. Personally I think they over commit themselves but that is only my opinion.

I have thought a lot about Heather today and what she is up to from what I see on Facebook she seems to be having a really good birthday week. I feel bad not being with her but she is happy and that is what is important.

I didn't get home till nearly 10.00 very late for a Lions night.

Christmas Cake Day

Why did I choose to make my Christmas cake on the hottest day we have had so far. I had to have the oven on for four hours and it was very hot. On the plus side the cake turned out very well and smells good. I have had to wrap it carefully in baking paper, then foil and put it in a plastic bag. I am becoming obsessed with cockroaches. I found two in the oven the other day so now I always have to check it before I turn it on. Ugh I hate them!

Apart from making the cake I did my housework and washing and got the ironing done. I had to give the shower a good clean. It never ceases to amaze me how dirty showers get and they have all those little nooks and crannies where the seals are. An old toothbrush does a good job and there is a lot of satisfaction when it is done.

I met Findlay and his owner this morning and had a chat to him. He is such a lovely boy. He has just finished uni in Christchurch, he did engineering. He was telling me that he wants to go and work in Spain as he spent a year there and really liked it. He was in Andalucia but he is not sure where he would like to go back to. Totty and Findlay get on so well.

Made a good chilli for dinner tonight.

Sunday and it is much warmer.

Well what a change the weather is much better today.

We went down to the garden centre for coffee today and then bought some basil and chives as our seeds didn't grow. We also bought a new mint as ours has died as it was pot bound so of course we had to buy a bigger pot. We also bought a Rosemary plant so our herb garden is now complete and looks pretty good. I was also surprised, though I don't know why I should have been, to see Poinsettias in the garden centre so we bought one of those, too. Apparently they grow outdoors here!

After lunch we went to the driving range to hit some balls. Why can these eight and nine year olds do it so well?

We then went looking at cars for me. You can get really good deals with some of the Japanese cars. The problem I have is I don't know what I want. Most of the new models have very short bonnets and I don't like them, how do you see to park? I need to get in them and have a test drive and see what they feel like. We saw some good deals so I will have to go back next week and have a drive.

The weather had by now clouded over but we managed to get home and get Totty out before it rained but it was still very warm.

I cooked nasi goreng for dinner tonight and it was very good. I would describe it as a Malaysian paella. I also made a very good boysenberry and apple crumble. It was really good and the crumble was made of breadcrumbs, a nice change.

Why can't the weather men/women get it right?

Our intention was to have a day at the beach for a picnic today as the forecast was good. However, when we got up the weather was cloudy and windy and at the exposed end of the park we were nearly blown away when we took Totty for a walk.

We decided instead to go and look for a king size summer duvet as the one here at the house is just double and not big enough. We went over to Briscoes and had quite a job finding a summer weight duvet as most of them didn't have a tog number on like we have in the UK. We eventually bought one which the young girl assured us was summer weight! I also found some more reading glasses as I broke my others while wearing them round my neck at the shop, they get caught up with the coat hangers.

We then went for coffee but it was much too windy to sit outside and there were so many little children in the cafe we ended up on a table in the entrance which was in fact quite pleasant.

We got back home and had an indoors picnic for lunch.

I didn't feel like doing much else so Jon did a bit of gardening and washed the car and I did a bit of farming on Farmville.

We had some good stir fried beef cooked with sesame seeds for dinner.

Life is getting to be as busy as it was in the UK!

I can't believe I slept in this morning, Jon woke me at 7.45! Typical on a day when I have so much to do. Poor Totty only had a short walk this morning and a big confrontation with two little terriers that came running down their driveway to sort us out. Fortunately, I managed to sort them out and we were on our way again. Silly thing is I had crossed the road to get away from two dogs who go crazy at the fence when we walk past and we went straight into the path of these other two. This is not our usual route, just the quick walk when I am in a hurry. If I am honest I am still very nervous when I meet other dogs as I am never sure how they are going to behave and a lot of Kiwi dogs are not on leads.

I had a really enjoyable morning at the Red Cross despite the fact that the phone was not working and so we had no EFTPOS facilities (electronic debit transactions). Most people were fine about it and just went next door for a coffee and got cash back. Telecom were very good and came out to fix it by 11.00 - impressive. We had some amazing stock sent up to put out, most of it looked like it had come from the 80s. Les and I had a good giggle about it. I was very good and didn't buy anything today.

i went off to the supermarket and bought all my ingredients for the Christmas cake and the gingerbread that I need to make for the youth camp for Lions.

I got home at 1.20 and had to leave again to go and sell raffle tickets at 1.45. There were three messages on the answerphone to say that selling tickets had been cancelled and also one from Heather to say she had had a good birthday meal last night. It was such a relief not to have to rush out again. Jon was in Rotorua for a meeting so I ended up having a very relaxing lunch.

I finally caught up with Neighbours this afternoon and did my ironing. I also managed to get Totty out for a long walk and we didn't meet any other dogs.

Fish and chips was particularly good tonight. In fact we have really only had one bad lot since we arrived which is pretty good.

Jane will be on her way to Barcelona now, I hope she has a good time.

Heather called and was just about to leave to get the train to London for the day with her friend. She sounded happy and is glad to have her/our Fiesta back again!

The forecast is for good weather tomorrow so we look forward to a trip to the beach. The weather in Australia is very hot and Jon is off to Melbourne next Monday, I'm glad I am not going with him this time!

Yoga time again.

The sun was shining this morning and the wind had dropped at last! I took Totty out and just had time to hang out my washing before I left for my class.

There were only six of us there today so it was really good and the teacher is good as she keeps an eye on you and puts you right when you are in the wrong position. I'm not sure I can see any progress yet but it must be good to be doing all this stretching. I actually managed to do a handstand on the wall today and then progressed to one leg straight up in the air and one leg straight out on the wall - complicated to explain but I felt very proud when I did it!

A quick trip to the supermarket to buy some fish for dinner and I also bought a few Christmas cards. I am only sending out to close family and the few friends who do not have email as it would cost too much money to send my usual amount so I hope people will be happy with a Christmas email instead of a card.

I didn't have much else to do when I got home as all my housework was done yesterday. Jon came home for lunch and when he left to go back to the office I went to get my WOF. That is a Warranty of Fitness. More or less the same as the UK MOT except you have to have it every six months. They do it while you wait and it only took about half an hour and it passed. Hopefully I will have a new car before I need another.

When I got back I took Totty out and then I phoned Alison to invite her over for a cup of tea and we had a chat and I told her about our trip to Napier and the gannet colony which she has not been to.

Jon has a meeting in Rotorua tomorrow so won't be home for lunch which is just as well as I am selling raffle tickets for Lions from 2 - 4.

Jon has booked our hotel in the Bay of Islands when we go for our cruise which is only just over two weeks away. Jon will also need to go to Australia before then. I should have been going with him but I have things to do for Lions which I have promised so I will have to make it for the next trip. It is 32 degrees in Melbourne at the moment so maybe it is not so nice!

I need to buy the ingredients for my Christmas cake tomorrow, I really should have had it made by now.

Wednesday

It was very overcast this morning and by the time I was dressed and had my breakfast it was pouring with rain and so Totty didn't get a walk. It rained for most of the morning and the wind was terrible.

I did a load of washing but had to use the drier. For the rest of the morning I chatted to Heather online and my friend in America on Skype. Just as well Jon was not coming home for lunch as I hadn't done much by 1.00.

The weather cleared by three o'clock so I managed to get Totty out. I don't think she must sleep in the kennels as she has spent most of today asleep.

I got some cleaning done this afternoon and did the bit of ironing that I had.

Jon thought he was coming down with a cold this morning but when he came home tonight he was fine.

I had taken a curry out of the freezer so had very little to do for dinner.

Hopefully the weather will be better tomorrow, it couldn't get much worse!

Sunday, Monday and Tuesday

We got up at 8.00 and I rushed around getting things packed and Jon took Totty out and we were ready to leave at 9.30 so pretty good for us. Totty was excited to be in the car 'going out' until we got to the kennels and then she was not so keen.

We went on a different road to Rotorua, the one that had a big slip on it and is only open for a few hours morning and evening. We don't like going that way as it is very windy but we found it to be much quicker and we were in Rotorua by 10.15, too early for coffee so we carried on and stopped further down towards Taupo at a cafe at a honey making factory and they had huge honey drums outside.

The weather was good and we made Taupo, which is half way in plenty of time and so we decided to carry on and arrived in Nappier at 1.30. We found a little cafe and I had pumpkin soup and Jon had seafood chowder which was very good.

We then went to our hotel which was on the seafront and opposite to the conference centre. It was a very big modern place and a bit cold but fine.

After unpacking we went out for a walk around the town for Jon to look at all the art deco buildings. We went to the Tourist Information Office and booked me on a trip to see the gannets out at Cape Kidnappers. I will get picked up at the hotel in the morning and taken to the start point. We visited the museum and I found the stories of the earthquake survivors just as moving as I did last time I went. We then went off and found a street cafe and had a really good cup of tea, I haven't had many since I got here, and a piece of chocolate cake.

We took a drive up to Bluff Lookout and you can see right over the bay and the port which Jon was very interested in. Some of the houses up there are built on stilts and look very dangerous, I wouldn't like to live in them with so may earthquakes in the area.

We went over to the conference centre to register and there were some people there dressed in thirties outfits and they were inviting people in for 'drinkies'. We decided to go and shower and get changed first and then go over. We arrived there at 6.30, the drinks reception was going on till 7.00, as soon as we went in Jon met a chap who does research and was giving a talk at the conference and we started to chat. Unfortunately he got onto his topic and didn't stop and so all we got were a few very nice nibbles that were being passed around but by the time we managed to get away from him the drinks were finished!!!!! A glass of wine would have been nice.

When we left we walked to the hotel where we stayed last time as the bar was very nice there and we had a glass of wine. We planned to eat in the hotel restaurant but on the way back we found a place called the Hog's Breath which looked pretty good so we found a table outside and ate there. It was a good meal of steak which is cooked for 18 hours but they still mange to serve it rare, very tasty. I had mine with prawns and Jon had his with garlic mushrooms. Dinner was followed by a very good pudding of ice cream, walnuts, honey, chocolate and cream and was very good, we did share one pudding!

While we were sitting outside after dinner the sky was lovely and there are some lovely old lamp posts in the street which I thought would look nice once the lights came on which they did but also every other pine tree was lit up with Christmas lights and it looked so pretty. There was also a fountain that changed colour across the way in some gardens. We walked over and took some photos and then went back to the hotel.

It was only 9.30 when we got back to the hotel so we had a coffee and read for a bit.

MONDAY

I didn't sleep very well as I was too hot and I think the dinner was a bit heavy for me, we should have gone for a longer walk after dinner.

We had breakfast and Jon went over to the conference at 8.00. I waited in the room till my lift came at 8.45. He kindly told me I would probably need a jacket as it got windy at the cape so I went back up for it. We drove along the coast and the driver was telling me he lived in Hemel Hempstead for four years and really enjoyed UK. He told me lots about the gannets.

When we got to the beach I was waiting for the tractors to come and got chatting to an English family, mum and dad and grown up daughter who were over here for two weeks to go to a family wedding next Friday. They have managed to do lots of things and were heading off to Rotorua after Napier.

The tractors arrived and there were five of them with two trailers on each. There were lots of school children but fortunately we, tourists were put on a different one. We set off bouncing along the beach and it was great fun. The drivers taking the tractors into the sea and nearly, but not quite getting our feet wet. The trip was an hour along the coast and of course they have to vary the times depending on the tide. You can walk along but it is a 20km round trip and you have to watch the tides. The driver was a real character and full of information about the cliffs and the rock formation and we had lots of little stops along the way. At one point we were racing along a straight bit with two of the other tractors, the school children loved it! I was sitting near tow Indian men on the trailer and there were some jelly fish on the beach and they didn't know what they were so I had to explain to them.

We got to the end of the beach and then had a 30 minute very steep walk to the top to see the main gannet colony, about 20,000 birds. It is a really lovely spot and the beach was beautiful and the sea was so blue. I managed to get a video clip of them but then my memory card said it was full. As it is a relatively new camera I didn't know how to delete the old photos, that will teach me to put things off and not read the instruction book. I now know how to do it so won't be caught like that again.

The gannets are not afraid of the people at all although, we were told if you cross over the little chain fence you would be in trouble. They arrive at the cape in July and stay till March. Usually there would be lots of chicks to see at this time of year but we were told the nesting was running about three weeks behind due to lack of fish for them to feed on earlier in the season. The gannets mate for life and live about 25 years, they come back to the same nest every year. They only rear one chick a year and the chick takes its first flight at about 16 weeks. Once it takes off from the cliff it doesn't stop till it gets to Australia! That is impressive but only about 20% make it. They come back to NZ when they are 4 or 5 for breeding and never go back to Australia again spending the rest of the year around the NZ coast. Our driver told us that once they had been over there that was enough for them never to go back again! It was an amazing sight and a shame Jon couldn't see them too.

The journey back was really good as I was on the cliff side and they are really high but made of very soft stone and sediment so very unstable and not a beach to sunbathe on under the cliffs. The wind had turned and so it was a bit chilly and I was very glad I had my jacket!

The drive who picked me up from the hotel was one of the tractor drivers so I had to wait till he came back to get my lift. Once he had off loaded the children I got onto the trailer and he took me back to the depot and we went speeding along the road and it was really funny me on the back of a tractor!

I was very hungry when I got back so went off for a sandwich and a drink. I then went back to the hotel to get my things as I thought I would go for a swim across at the spa but just as I was going Jon came back so we went out for a walk instead followed by a cup of tea.

After a shower we went out to meet some people from the conference and to have dinner with them. There were 3 x Kiwis, Don,, Nigel and Bruce, 1x Aussie, Justin who looks more Korean and Pedro from Chile who we may be going to see next year. We met them in the Hog's Breath and had a drink and we were supposed to go and eat somewhere else but Nigel decided we would stay there instead which was fine. We got a table which was like a booth with me sitting right at the end opposite Justin and Jon at my side and Nigel on a chair at the end. Then Nigel said well lets get started and off he went talking business and he really didn't stop after that. The poor waitress had trouble getting our order as really the meal was a secondary thing for him all he wanted to do was talk business. Now I understand that Jon was there for work but all night talking logs and Kiwi fruit!!!!!! Pedro looked bored and I know Jon was. I chose fish and it was much lighter than last night and I managed to order a glass of wine. Justin had a steak and made the most disgusting noises and ate his dinner in record time and then got out his floss and did his teeth Ugh!

The waitress came and asked if we wanted pudding and Nigel said no and didn't ask anyone else so the bill came and that was it. They talked some more and eventually we managed to get out of the door and they were still in the street talking when Jon and I went into the hotel. After a quick trip to the loo Jon and I slipped out the back door of the hotel and went and found a bar and had a very nice piece of passion fruit cheesecake and a coffee.

That really is no way to entertain people. Pedro is coming up to Tauranga on Tuesday so I hope Genera treat him better.

We got back to the hotel and it was still only 9.30.

TUESDAY

Jon had to meet the same people this morning and they drove to Hastings for an 8.00 meeting. Nigel said it would be over by 9.30. I went down for breakfast later and then packed the case. I had to leave the room at 10.00 and they were not back, surprise, surprise. I waited in reception and Jon got back at 10.45 and we set off for Tauranga.

We stopped at a little cafe on the way out for a coffee and bumped into our neighbour, Pat. She was on her way back from visiting relatives - small world.

The journey was pretty boring but at least it was dry, the forecast had been for rain. We stopped for lunch in Taupo and made it home by 3.30. I called the kennels to say we were back early and would pick Totty up today.

Totty was very happy to see us. She came home and has slept for most of the time since she came in.

I cooked a pizza I had in the freezer for dinner but it was not very nice so I made omelettes instead. Nice to have something simple after being out for so many meals. I feel as if we have been away for ages.