Nothing much happens on Mondays as I just do housework and take the dog out.
We had some really windy weather last night and at one stage I thought the roof would blow off! It has been windy all day but calmed down towards the end of the day. It was quite sunny and warm but after hanging my washing out twice and having to bring it back in, due to rain, I gave up and used the dryer
Jon is trying to lose some weight, he enjoys life out here and has put a bit on, so we are on Weightwatcher's meals this week and we have stir fried beef and vegetables tonight.
Monday, 31 August 2009
Sunday, 30 August 2009
It is golf again today!!!!
It was raining when we got up and so Jon called Andy to ask about our lesson, he told us to meet him at the driving range which is partly undercover.
I really don't look forward to the golf lesson and I can't seem to do much right. However, by the end of this lesson I was hitting more than I was missing but they don't go very far but it was better. Jon is doing well and really enjoys it.
We went for a coffee and then back home and as it had stopped raining we were able to take Totty out for a walk
I had the Lions Tail Twister Fundraiser to go to for 5.30 and Janice and her husband were going to pick me up so Jon took Totty out for her afternoon walk.
The event was held at the Citizens Club which is a bit like a huge working man's club. Our meal was roast pork or roast beef with potatoes and veg followed by Pavlova and tinned fruit and cream. I think I will just say they go for quantity not quality but it did only cost $10.50 (£4.00) so you can't complain.
At the start of the evening I had to come out first dressed in my costume and followed by the other ladies who were all supposed to dance but I was the only one that did - I was glad my wig covered my face! The costumes were from past national conventions and the audience had to guess from which year. After that I got changed and took on my role as time keeper for the rest of the evening. I thought the 'Tails' were rather boring but the audience laughed so maybe it was just me. The whole evening ended at 8.15 and I was home by 8.30 for a well deserved glass of wine and some cheese and biscuits with Jon as he was only just finishing his dinner!
I really don't look forward to the golf lesson and I can't seem to do much right. However, by the end of this lesson I was hitting more than I was missing but they don't go very far but it was better. Jon is doing well and really enjoys it.
We went for a coffee and then back home and as it had stopped raining we were able to take Totty out for a walk
I had the Lions Tail Twister Fundraiser to go to for 5.30 and Janice and her husband were going to pick me up so Jon took Totty out for her afternoon walk.
The event was held at the Citizens Club which is a bit like a huge working man's club. Our meal was roast pork or roast beef with potatoes and veg followed by Pavlova and tinned fruit and cream. I think I will just say they go for quantity not quality but it did only cost $10.50 (£4.00) so you can't complain.
At the start of the evening I had to come out first dressed in my costume and followed by the other ladies who were all supposed to dance but I was the only one that did - I was glad my wig covered my face! The costumes were from past national conventions and the audience had to guess from which year. After that I got changed and took on my role as time keeper for the rest of the evening. I thought the 'Tails' were rather boring but the audience laughed so maybe it was just me. The whole evening ended at 8.15 and I was home by 8.30 for a well deserved glass of wine and some cheese and biscuits with Jon as he was only just finishing his dinner!
Saturday, 29 August 2009
Saturday
After taking Totty for her walk we drove into Tauranga and had coffee before going into the library and I managed to find another Penny Vincenzi book that I have not read.
We then went to do our supermarket shop and home for lunch.
Totty smells so bad we need to bath her today so we went up to Kiwi Pets and gave her a good scrub. They give me shampoo for black dogs but it was quite diluted and when she was rinsed Jon said there was conditioner there to use and squeezed some on my hand but it turned out to be the shampoo undiluted and so I had to wash her again! I dried her and we paid and took her home. When we got home you could see a very dark mark down her back obviously where I had put the undiluted shampoo on her. It is a shame I didn't use that all over her as it might have got rid of some of her grey hair - Grecian 2000 for dogs!
We went up to the driving range to hit some balls and then it was back for a cup of tea and a rest after all the in and out we have done today.
I made a moussaka and we had a nice bottle of wine and some cheese for dinner.
We then went to do our supermarket shop and home for lunch.
Totty smells so bad we need to bath her today so we went up to Kiwi Pets and gave her a good scrub. They give me shampoo for black dogs but it was quite diluted and when she was rinsed Jon said there was conditioner there to use and squeezed some on my hand but it turned out to be the shampoo undiluted and so I had to wash her again! I dried her and we paid and took her home. When we got home you could see a very dark mark down her back obviously where I had put the undiluted shampoo on her. It is a shame I didn't use that all over her as it might have got rid of some of her grey hair - Grecian 2000 for dogs!
We went up to the driving range to hit some balls and then it was back for a cup of tea and a rest after all the in and out we have done today.
I made a moussaka and we had a nice bottle of wine and some cheese for dinner.
Friday, 28 August 2009
Back from Auckland
We had an amazing thunderstorm last night and Totty was really frightened, it sounded as if the roof was coming down on top of us and Totty ended up sleeping on my chest until it had passed.
I took her to the kennels and Jon went into work for the morning. I pottered around packing and when Jon came home we had a quick lunch and set off. The drive to Auckland was good and we found the hotel with no problem.
After checking in we went for a walk around the basin behind the hotel, the tide was out so it didn't look particularly pretty but the walk around it was good, 3.2 km. We got back to the room and had a cup of tea and then got ready to go for dinner which we had in the hotel, I had fillet of beef and Jon had rack of lamb and we shared a cheeseboard which was far too much for one anyway.
After a good nights sleep and another thunderstorm we woke and went for breakfast which was OK but not the best I have ever had, only tinned fruit! Seems silly when they have so much fresh fruit about.
Jon went into the conference and I went in search of the railway station, Sylvia Park shopping centre, which I found after a 15 minute walk. I asked a lady where you buy your tickets as there was nothing on the platform and she told me on the train. The train arrived on time and was not full and very clean and comfortable. My ticket cost $3.80 for the half hour journey, mainly along the coast and very pretty. I got off in the centre of Auckland near the harbour and went for a coffee. I then went to the Maritime Museum which was very interesting. After that I had a walk around the harbour and saw some really beautiful sailing boats.
I then went for a walk around the centre and bought a sandwich for my lunch and ate it sitting on a bench in the street. There are some lovely shops in Auckland. I walked up to the university and saw the main building thee which is called the Clock Tower and is very old but you can't look around it. By this time I had had enough of walking so went and caught the train back to Sylvia Park. I walked back to the hotel and had a cup of tea and a rest.
I got ready for the evening reception and Jon came up at 6.00 had a quick shower and then we went down to the reception which was OK and I had a chat to a few people. The food they were serving for dinner didn't look very appetising and it was also a bit early to eat so we chose to eat later in the restaurant.
Friday morning - after packing the case, I gave breakfast a miss, and leaving it in reception I went off to have a look around Sylvia Park, Jon was due to finish at 1.00. It is a huge shopping area and I really enjoyed walking round the shops but only bought a cardigan.
I got back to the hotel at 1.00 and waited until Jon had finished and then we set off back to Tauranga. We arrived at the kennels to collect Totty at 5.15 which was good as they close at 5.30!
We had fish and chips for tea but Totty didn't get her usual little portion as we had a very small half scoop of chips this week!
I took her to the kennels and Jon went into work for the morning. I pottered around packing and when Jon came home we had a quick lunch and set off. The drive to Auckland was good and we found the hotel with no problem.
After checking in we went for a walk around the basin behind the hotel, the tide was out so it didn't look particularly pretty but the walk around it was good, 3.2 km. We got back to the room and had a cup of tea and then got ready to go for dinner which we had in the hotel, I had fillet of beef and Jon had rack of lamb and we shared a cheeseboard which was far too much for one anyway.
After a good nights sleep and another thunderstorm we woke and went for breakfast which was OK but not the best I have ever had, only tinned fruit! Seems silly when they have so much fresh fruit about.
Jon went into the conference and I went in search of the railway station, Sylvia Park shopping centre, which I found after a 15 minute walk. I asked a lady where you buy your tickets as there was nothing on the platform and she told me on the train. The train arrived on time and was not full and very clean and comfortable. My ticket cost $3.80 for the half hour journey, mainly along the coast and very pretty. I got off in the centre of Auckland near the harbour and went for a coffee. I then went to the Maritime Museum which was very interesting. After that I had a walk around the harbour and saw some really beautiful sailing boats.
I then went for a walk around the centre and bought a sandwich for my lunch and ate it sitting on a bench in the street. There are some lovely shops in Auckland. I walked up to the university and saw the main building thee which is called the Clock Tower and is very old but you can't look around it. By this time I had had enough of walking so went and caught the train back to Sylvia Park. I walked back to the hotel and had a cup of tea and a rest.
I got ready for the evening reception and Jon came up at 6.00 had a quick shower and then we went down to the reception which was OK and I had a chat to a few people. The food they were serving for dinner didn't look very appetising and it was also a bit early to eat so we chose to eat later in the restaurant.
Friday morning - after packing the case, I gave breakfast a miss, and leaving it in reception I went off to have a look around Sylvia Park, Jon was due to finish at 1.00. It is a huge shopping area and I really enjoyed walking round the shops but only bought a cardigan.
I got back to the hotel at 1.00 and waited until Jon had finished and then we set off back to Tauranga. We arrived at the kennels to collect Totty at 5.15 which was good as they close at 5.30!
We had fish and chips for tea but Totty didn't get her usual little portion as we had a very small half scoop of chips this week!
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
Tuesday
I got caught in a shower this morning while walking the dog and then in another shower after my keep fit class and another one walking the dog this afternoon and it was raining when I came out of my Lions meeting tonight. August showers doesn't quite have the same ring as April showers.
I had a really good workout at my class again this week, it is really good fun and I enjoy it so much. After the class, when we were all having coffee, a lady came over and sat by me and started to chat. Her name is Sharon and she comes from Malaysia but has lived here for many years and had her two children here. Believe it or not she went to school in Southwold! I haven't heard the whole story yet as to what she was doing in UK but she is very pleasant and we had a good chat - she is one of the younger, well my age, ladies that go to the class. She was telling me about her new puppy and it appears to be one of the puppies that Heather fell in love with that were on sale at the pet shop when she was over here - what a small world!
Jon came home for lunch and then went off to the driving range to hit some balls - I didn't feel like as it is a bit windy and cold today.
Janice who used to give me a lift to Lions cannot drive at the moment as she has had a seizure and as both Janice and I were on the rota for collecting money tonight I said I would pick her up. It is the first job I have had to do for Lions and it was good as you get to talk to all the ladies as they come in and hopefully, it will help me learn and remember their names.
We had a reasonable dinner and then had a guest speaker who is an undertaker. It was a very interesting talk as he was telling us about the time he went over to Thailand to help after the Tsunami. Some very sad stories but also very interesting. Since then he has sold his business and made it a trust called the Legacy Trust and all the profits from his business go into that trust and in the four years since he made it has given $290,000 to various charities including $2,000 to our fundraiser this year. He is a very entertaining man and we could have listened to him for a lot longer.
Elizabeth gave me my nice gold wig to go with my costume for Sunday night - I should look so good!!!!
We are going to Auckland tomorrow till Friday but don't need to leave until lunchtime but I will need to get Totty to the kennels in the morning, poor thing.
I had a really good workout at my class again this week, it is really good fun and I enjoy it so much. After the class, when we were all having coffee, a lady came over and sat by me and started to chat. Her name is Sharon and she comes from Malaysia but has lived here for many years and had her two children here. Believe it or not she went to school in Southwold! I haven't heard the whole story yet as to what she was doing in UK but she is very pleasant and we had a good chat - she is one of the younger, well my age, ladies that go to the class. She was telling me about her new puppy and it appears to be one of the puppies that Heather fell in love with that were on sale at the pet shop when she was over here - what a small world!
Jon came home for lunch and then went off to the driving range to hit some balls - I didn't feel like as it is a bit windy and cold today.
Janice who used to give me a lift to Lions cannot drive at the moment as she has had a seizure and as both Janice and I were on the rota for collecting money tonight I said I would pick her up. It is the first job I have had to do for Lions and it was good as you get to talk to all the ladies as they come in and hopefully, it will help me learn and remember their names.
We had a reasonable dinner and then had a guest speaker who is an undertaker. It was a very interesting talk as he was telling us about the time he went over to Thailand to help after the Tsunami. Some very sad stories but also very interesting. Since then he has sold his business and made it a trust called the Legacy Trust and all the profits from his business go into that trust and in the four years since he made it has given $290,000 to various charities including $2,000 to our fundraiser this year. He is a very entertaining man and we could have listened to him for a lot longer.
Elizabeth gave me my nice gold wig to go with my costume for Sunday night - I should look so good!!!!
We are going to Auckland tomorrow till Friday but don't need to leave until lunchtime but I will need to get Totty to the kennels in the morning, poor thing.
Monday, 24 August 2009
Lots of housework
I haven't done much lately so thought I would have a good cleaning day today and I did all the nooks and crannies that don't usually see a duster and now the house is sparkling and the bathroom floors are so shiny!
Apart from the above and walking the dog twice that is all I have done today whilst listening to Radio 2 iPlayer - it really helps.
My new golf club is in the hall downstairs and every time I go down there I have a little practice, maybe that is why the housework takes so long!
I had to rush out this afternoon and get my washing in as we had a huge, very unexpected downpour.
I had a horrible pain in my face this afternoon and I am not sure if it is to do with my tooth so I think I feel a dentist appointment coming on. Dentists are big business over here and I don't know where to start in choosing one. There is one who advertises 'pain free treatment' I quite fancy that idea!
Apart from the above and walking the dog twice that is all I have done today whilst listening to Radio 2 iPlayer - it really helps.
My new golf club is in the hall downstairs and every time I go down there I have a little practice, maybe that is why the housework takes so long!
I had to rush out this afternoon and get my washing in as we had a huge, very unexpected downpour.
I had a horrible pain in my face this afternoon and I am not sure if it is to do with my tooth so I think I feel a dentist appointment coming on. Dentists are big business over here and I don't know where to start in choosing one. There is one who advertises 'pain free treatment' I quite fancy that idea!
Sunday, 23 August 2009
Golf!!!!!!!???????
I just don't know if I will ever get the hang of this game. There is so much to remember, where to put my feet, which way my body should face to start and where it should be facing when I finish. I think the problem is I just don't follow what he is saying to me. I just feel like giving up. Jon seems to be doing well, at least he hits the ball. Andy gave me a new club this week with special grips so that your hand stays in the right place. He also gave me a packet of Ts to practice hitting - only problem is we have no garden and I don't think the owner of our house would like me to put Ts in her carpet so now sure how I am going to practice!
We went and had a well deserved cup of coffee after our lesson and then we went looking at cameras. The camera we have takes good photos but it has a mark on the lens and we have been told it will cost a lot of money to get it repaired as they are all sealed up and it takes a lot of time to fix so a new camera would be cheaper - what a mad world we live in!! I like to have a view finder so we were restricted as to what we could have and we have ended up with a Cannon which is very nice but now I have a lot of reading to do as I use the camera more than Jon I need to know what I am doing. Watch out for spot free photos.
After such a lovely day yesterday it has been quite cloudy today with some heavy showers. Between the showers we managed to get Totty down to Rotary Park and as the tide was out she had a good run on the sand.
I cooked a nice beef and pepper casserole for dinner, yesterday I thought I had made a bad choice planning a casserole but as it turned out so wet it was a good choice.
We went and had a well deserved cup of coffee after our lesson and then we went looking at cameras. The camera we have takes good photos but it has a mark on the lens and we have been told it will cost a lot of money to get it repaired as they are all sealed up and it takes a lot of time to fix so a new camera would be cheaper - what a mad world we live in!! I like to have a view finder so we were restricted as to what we could have and we have ended up with a Cannon which is very nice but now I have a lot of reading to do as I use the camera more than Jon I need to know what I am doing. Watch out for spot free photos.
After such a lovely day yesterday it has been quite cloudy today with some heavy showers. Between the showers we managed to get Totty down to Rotary Park and as the tide was out she had a good run on the sand.
I cooked a nice beef and pepper casserole for dinner, yesterday I thought I had made a bad choice planning a casserole but as it turned out so wet it was a good choice.
Saturday, 22 August 2009
What a busy day
We took Totty out for her walk to the park this morning and it was a lovely morning.
We then set off to the Mount to have a coffee, and a muffin, before setting off to walk up it. It was a really beautiful day, the sun was shinning but not too hot and there was a slight breeze. The views were really good as it was so clear and you could see White Island, Whale Island and Mt Edgecumbe all really well. We had a rest at the top and sat and enjoyed the view over Matakana Island, we really must take a trip over there and have a look round the Maori sites. We walked down the other side and after walking through the sheep got to the bottom.
We got home, after battling our way through the traffic for the rugby match at Bay Park, and had lunch and then set off with Totty to Te Puna. We had a lovely walk around the park and saw lots of orchids out in flower. By the time we got back home we were very tired. Jon washed the car and I coloured my hair which is long overdue.
We were ready for our Saturday night G & T and I made stir fry for dinner followed by some very good 'Shades of Blue' NZ cheese. They make some very good cheese here.
After watching Poirot it was time for bed. Not sure my legs will take a golf lesson tomorrow!
We then set off to the Mount to have a coffee, and a muffin, before setting off to walk up it. It was a really beautiful day, the sun was shinning but not too hot and there was a slight breeze. The views were really good as it was so clear and you could see White Island, Whale Island and Mt Edgecumbe all really well. We had a rest at the top and sat and enjoyed the view over Matakana Island, we really must take a trip over there and have a look round the Maori sites. We walked down the other side and after walking through the sheep got to the bottom.
We got home, after battling our way through the traffic for the rugby match at Bay Park, and had lunch and then set off with Totty to Te Puna. We had a lovely walk around the park and saw lots of orchids out in flower. By the time we got back home we were very tired. Jon washed the car and I coloured my hair which is long overdue.
We were ready for our Saturday night G & T and I made stir fry for dinner followed by some very good 'Shades of Blue' NZ cheese. They make some very good cheese here.
After watching Poirot it was time for bed. Not sure my legs will take a golf lesson tomorrow!
Friday, 21 August 2009
Heather's car is a write off.
Jon had an email from Heather so called her first thing and she told us that her car will cost £1,500 to have repaired and so they have written it off which she is most upset about. It is really annoying that because of some silly girl not paying attention she is now going to need a new car and all the inconvenience that goes with it. I keep telling myself that at least she is OK and that is what is important.
After speaking to Heather I was a bit late getting ready and out to the Red Cross Shop but it was so quiet there this morning it didn't really matter. It did get busier through the morning so it didn't drag. A woman who also works on a Friday, Lorraine, is really very abrupt and I am not sure I like her very much. I asked her where she lived and she mentioned a name I had not heard of and so asked her where it was. She asked me where I lived and I told her and she said well it is not far from you why don't you know it!!!!! I told her I had only been over her 8 months and so did not know every town so she then told me where it was. Her tongue is so sharp she needs to be careful she doesn't cut herself. She is only a volunteer the same as me but has ideas above her station. I'll stay out of her way in future. I won't be there next week as we are away in Auckland.
I went to do my shopping and was in no rush as Jon was in Auckland and not home for lunch.
Totty still got me up again in the night but I will keep trying with earlier food and see what happens.
I called Bronwyn to tell her how much we had enjoyed the show and she was telling me that she didn't get home till 1.00. She is pleased it all went so well but is looking forward to next week. They have been rehearsing this since March I think. I can understand why they only do it every two years.
Fish and chips tonight
After speaking to Heather I was a bit late getting ready and out to the Red Cross Shop but it was so quiet there this morning it didn't really matter. It did get busier through the morning so it didn't drag. A woman who also works on a Friday, Lorraine, is really very abrupt and I am not sure I like her very much. I asked her where she lived and she mentioned a name I had not heard of and so asked her where it was. She asked me where I lived and I told her and she said well it is not far from you why don't you know it!!!!! I told her I had only been over her 8 months and so did not know every town so she then told me where it was. Her tongue is so sharp she needs to be careful she doesn't cut herself. She is only a volunteer the same as me but has ideas above her station. I'll stay out of her way in future. I won't be there next week as we are away in Auckland.
I went to do my shopping and was in no rush as Jon was in Auckland and not home for lunch.
Totty still got me up again in the night but I will keep trying with earlier food and see what happens.
I called Bronwyn to tell her how much we had enjoyed the show and she was telling me that she didn't get home till 1.00. She is pleased it all went so well but is looking forward to next week. They have been rehearsing this since March I think. I can understand why they only do it every two years.
Fish and chips tonight
Thursday, 20 August 2009
The power really went off today.
We had a phone call at 7.30 this morning from Heather, she had got her times wrong, just as well we were up and heard the phone. She told us that her car may be a write off in which case she will only get about £500 for it. She would find it very difficult not having a car now and would not be able to get to work so we will have to keep our fingers crossed.
She also told me that one of the girls she should be sharing with next year may have to live at home as she is doing a placement and does not get all her grant. The girl has found someone else to take her place but the others don't know her that well. Heather needs to speak to her and get it sorted out but her head is so full of 'car' she does not know if she is coming or going.
The landlord of the house has not yet cleaned it but says he will and he will also get new mattresses for the beds - I hope he gets on to it soon.
They are also having trouble with the electricity board as they say they owe lots of money from their previous house but I don't know how they can as they had a meter and had to buy cards for it. The bills are in Mark's name (one of the people she was sharing with) and so of course the electricity people will only speak to him. He has put in a complaint and is waiting to speak to someone higher up but she is not sure when that will happen. I can't believe we are still having problems with that house it just goes on and on.
After the phone call I had to get a move on and get my hair washed and dried in case the power went and it was just as well I did as it was off when I got back from my walk with Totty.
I decided to go into Tauranga and look around the shops and go to the library. I tried to call Jon to tell him he would not be able to open the garage at lunchtime only to find my phone was out of credit. I looked for Jon's credit card to top it up (he has used his UK card to do it since we got the phone as we have no NZ credit cards) but it was not in the drawer. I tried to call him on the land line but as we had no electricity it was not working!! Going from bad to worse here! I managed to call him at the office on the 0800 number but he was in a meeting so I left a message for him to call me. My battery was very low and of course I couldn't charge it. I called Vodaphone and re registered my new card that I only got this week which serves as a Visa card but comes out of our account over here and that worked which is good so it is in my name now, just as well he wasn't in Oz. I finally managed to get out of the house after messing around for 30 minutes.
I have been looking for some knee high boots so that I can wear my skirts but they have all been a bit expensive. I went into a shoe shop which had a sale on and found some lovely black leather boots reduced to £20 from £80 and they are so comfy. What a bargain.
I fed Totty at lunchtime today in the hope that she will need to go to the loo earlier and not keep getting me up every night, it is driving me mad.
I took Totty out for an early walk and when I got back the power was on again. I don't like being 'incommunicado'.
Alison picked me up at 6.45 to go to the fashion show that Bronwyn is helping with for Breast Cancer. It was called 'Tarnished Frocks and Divas' and was a revamped retro fashion and performance art show. On display, as we went into the theatre, were clothes made by students from the local art colleges. They had to find old dresses and re style them with a futuristic look and model them - they were extremely good and the girls make up was incredible.
The show itself was in the Baycourt Theatre which is very nice and modern and seats about 1000 people (we were on the fourth row from the front so had good seats) the show is a sell out over the three nights. It was compared by a well known Kiwi singer who was very entertaining. The show started in the 1920s with songs and dance from that time along with photos displayed, on three big screens above the stage, of local women, one of them now 94, talking about fashion at that time. Then the models, all over 40, came out in a wonderful collection of outfits all collected from op shops over the last two years, since the last show. It went through the 30s, 40s, 50s in the same format and at the end and best of all, as I could relate to it, the 60s. Then the grand finale was all the models and singers on stage in 60s outfits singing all the 60s music and the whole place was on its feet and we were all singing along and dancing and it was really good fun and I had a great time. Most of the music was from a girl playing the piano and she was brilliant.
The show didn't finish till 11.10 but it didn't seem that long. I didn't get home till 11.30 which is a really late night for over here
She also told me that one of the girls she should be sharing with next year may have to live at home as she is doing a placement and does not get all her grant. The girl has found someone else to take her place but the others don't know her that well. Heather needs to speak to her and get it sorted out but her head is so full of 'car' she does not know if she is coming or going.
The landlord of the house has not yet cleaned it but says he will and he will also get new mattresses for the beds - I hope he gets on to it soon.
They are also having trouble with the electricity board as they say they owe lots of money from their previous house but I don't know how they can as they had a meter and had to buy cards for it. The bills are in Mark's name (one of the people she was sharing with) and so of course the electricity people will only speak to him. He has put in a complaint and is waiting to speak to someone higher up but she is not sure when that will happen. I can't believe we are still having problems with that house it just goes on and on.
After the phone call I had to get a move on and get my hair washed and dried in case the power went and it was just as well I did as it was off when I got back from my walk with Totty.
I decided to go into Tauranga and look around the shops and go to the library. I tried to call Jon to tell him he would not be able to open the garage at lunchtime only to find my phone was out of credit. I looked for Jon's credit card to top it up (he has used his UK card to do it since we got the phone as we have no NZ credit cards) but it was not in the drawer. I tried to call him on the land line but as we had no electricity it was not working!! Going from bad to worse here! I managed to call him at the office on the 0800 number but he was in a meeting so I left a message for him to call me. My battery was very low and of course I couldn't charge it. I called Vodaphone and re registered my new card that I only got this week which serves as a Visa card but comes out of our account over here and that worked which is good so it is in my name now, just as well he wasn't in Oz. I finally managed to get out of the house after messing around for 30 minutes.
I have been looking for some knee high boots so that I can wear my skirts but they have all been a bit expensive. I went into a shoe shop which had a sale on and found some lovely black leather boots reduced to £20 from £80 and they are so comfy. What a bargain.
I fed Totty at lunchtime today in the hope that she will need to go to the loo earlier and not keep getting me up every night, it is driving me mad.
I took Totty out for an early walk and when I got back the power was on again. I don't like being 'incommunicado'.
Alison picked me up at 6.45 to go to the fashion show that Bronwyn is helping with for Breast Cancer. It was called 'Tarnished Frocks and Divas' and was a revamped retro fashion and performance art show. On display, as we went into the theatre, were clothes made by students from the local art colleges. They had to find old dresses and re style them with a futuristic look and model them - they were extremely good and the girls make up was incredible.
The show itself was in the Baycourt Theatre which is very nice and modern and seats about 1000 people (we were on the fourth row from the front so had good seats) the show is a sell out over the three nights. It was compared by a well known Kiwi singer who was very entertaining. The show started in the 1920s with songs and dance from that time along with photos displayed, on three big screens above the stage, of local women, one of them now 94, talking about fashion at that time. Then the models, all over 40, came out in a wonderful collection of outfits all collected from op shops over the last two years, since the last show. It went through the 30s, 40s, 50s in the same format and at the end and best of all, as I could relate to it, the 60s. Then the grand finale was all the models and singers on stage in 60s outfits singing all the 60s music and the whole place was on its feet and we were all singing along and dancing and it was really good fun and I had a great time. Most of the music was from a girl playing the piano and she was brilliant.
The show didn't finish till 11.10 but it didn't seem that long. I didn't get home till 11.30 which is a really late night for over here
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
Where has the sun gone?
We woke to a very miserable, grey day, just as well I didn't have much planned. I had just got out of the shower and was going to give my friend Roz a call in the UK when the phone rang in the house and it was Heather. She told me that somebody had smashed into the back of her this morning (our last night) at the bottom of Centre Drive. The girl who was driving told Heather that she wasn't concentrating at which point Heather got angry and said it was her who had not been concentrating. Anyway to cut a long story short, Heather is fine but the car needs to have work done on the boot and so she will get a courtesy car tomorrow. Jane was really helpful helping her get things sorted out as Heather took the car to where Jane works and they checked it over for her and also took Heather to work. I really appreciate people doing things like that and like the way the girls help each other when things go wrong.
I eventually got Totty out for her walk at 10.00 and had my breakfast at 10.30.
I had to get the washing done today just in case the electricity goes off tomorrow. Dam I have just thought I was going to dye my hair tomorrow as I am going out tomorrow night but if I have no power I won't be able to dry it. What a pain!! I'll have to have a rethink.
I had to have an early dinner as I had a Lions fundraising meeting to go to.
The meeting was over in Bethlehem and I went with Jean and Helen. We have to dress up for this fundraising thing we are doing on 30 August in costumes that have been used as the theme for the national conferences that Lions have held over the years. My costume is not too bad - black top with gold glitter stars and things on it with black trousers and a gold wig. Elizabeth asked us all to do a practice run through and the idea was that we would all 'dance' down her stairs and through her living room, which is quite a long way and then line up on the pretend stage. I was first to go and when she put the music on off I went flinging my arms around and dancing down the stairs giving it my all. When I got to the 'stage' I turned round to see all these ladies sedately walking along with their arms flapping. It was so funny! When I got home and tried to tell Jon about it I could not stop laughing. I think I will need to tone it down a little they are quite a bit older than me!
I have also been given the job of 'timer' and to work the clapometer board! The timer is just timing the people who are doing the 'Tail Twisting' and I have a bell to ring to start them and an egg timer for their five minute twister. I can't tell you much about that until I have seen it - I'm not sure if we have anything like it in UK. While the judges are deciding who is the winner the various Lion clubs that will be there have one person to tell a joke and the winner is the one with the loudest applause which is where I come in with my clapometer board. It is a board with a big red temperature tube on it and I hold a stick and move it up to where I 'think' they are clapping! I tell you I am not really looking forward to this but I am sure it will be alright on the night. It is to be on Sunday 30 August. I did ask Jon if he wanted to come but I have since found out that we need to be there for our 'dinner' at 5.30 and the Tail Twister starts at 6.30 and no doubt will be all over by 9.30. I'll let you know how it goes. I don't think it is Jon's cup of tea at all but we did have fun at the meeting followed by a lovely chocolate cake. And we drove there and back with no mishaps.
I eventually got Totty out for her walk at 10.00 and had my breakfast at 10.30.
I had to get the washing done today just in case the electricity goes off tomorrow. Dam I have just thought I was going to dye my hair tomorrow as I am going out tomorrow night but if I have no power I won't be able to dry it. What a pain!! I'll have to have a rethink.
I had to have an early dinner as I had a Lions fundraising meeting to go to.
The meeting was over in Bethlehem and I went with Jean and Helen. We have to dress up for this fundraising thing we are doing on 30 August in costumes that have been used as the theme for the national conferences that Lions have held over the years. My costume is not too bad - black top with gold glitter stars and things on it with black trousers and a gold wig. Elizabeth asked us all to do a practice run through and the idea was that we would all 'dance' down her stairs and through her living room, which is quite a long way and then line up on the pretend stage. I was first to go and when she put the music on off I went flinging my arms around and dancing down the stairs giving it my all. When I got to the 'stage' I turned round to see all these ladies sedately walking along with their arms flapping. It was so funny! When I got home and tried to tell Jon about it I could not stop laughing. I think I will need to tone it down a little they are quite a bit older than me!
I have also been given the job of 'timer' and to work the clapometer board! The timer is just timing the people who are doing the 'Tail Twisting' and I have a bell to ring to start them and an egg timer for their five minute twister. I can't tell you much about that until I have seen it - I'm not sure if we have anything like it in UK. While the judges are deciding who is the winner the various Lion clubs that will be there have one person to tell a joke and the winner is the one with the loudest applause which is where I come in with my clapometer board. It is a board with a big red temperature tube on it and I hold a stick and move it up to where I 'think' they are clapping! I tell you I am not really looking forward to this but I am sure it will be alright on the night. It is to be on Sunday 30 August. I did ask Jon if he wanted to come but I have since found out that we need to be there for our 'dinner' at 5.30 and the Tail Twister starts at 6.30 and no doubt will be all over by 9.30. I'll let you know how it goes. I don't think it is Jon's cup of tea at all but we did have fun at the meeting followed by a lovely chocolate cake. And we drove there and back with no mishaps.
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
Another lovely spring day.
It was really warm today and when I got to my class they had to have the doors open as it was so warm. She really worked us hard today and I was sweating a lot - that's good isn't it?
I didn't stay for coffee after the class as they had a lady coming from St John's to do CPR and as I did it not long ago I thought I would give it a miss. My friend, Joan who has been in Canada for 8 weeks for the birth of her grandson, was waiting to go in to the CPR class so it was nice to see her again, she has only just got back so has missed most of our winter.
I went along to Fraser Cove shopping centre for a coffee and then went to buy some cropped joggers as my full length ones are going to be too hot if this weather keeps up.
I got back and did a bit of housework and then Jon was home for lunch.
After lunch I had two episodes of neighbours to catch up on - it is soooo sad at the moment.
Took Totty out for a walk and the sun was lovely.
Came back and spent the rest of the afternoon finishing my big thick Penny Vincenzi book and it was really good. I now have the horrible job of starting a new book!!
I didn't stay for coffee after the class as they had a lady coming from St John's to do CPR and as I did it not long ago I thought I would give it a miss. My friend, Joan who has been in Canada for 8 weeks for the birth of her grandson, was waiting to go in to the CPR class so it was nice to see her again, she has only just got back so has missed most of our winter.
I went along to Fraser Cove shopping centre for a coffee and then went to buy some cropped joggers as my full length ones are going to be too hot if this weather keeps up.
I got back and did a bit of housework and then Jon was home for lunch.
After lunch I had two episodes of neighbours to catch up on - it is soooo sad at the moment.
Took Totty out for a walk and the sun was lovely.
Came back and spent the rest of the afternoon finishing my big thick Penny Vincenzi book and it was really good. I now have the horrible job of starting a new book!!
Monday, 17 August 2009
You just can't get the staff....
We had a notice in the postbox last week saying the electricity needed to be turned off today for maintenance from 9.00 - 3.00. but if it was delayed for any reason it would happen on Thursday instead. I was all prepared and did my washing the night before so I could hang it out and I had the PC all unplugged but nothing happened and I waited all morning. Jon phoned to say a load of wood would be delivered by some of the men from Genera so I had to leave the garage door open as that is electric, too. The wood arrived and it was too wet and too much to put in the garage so 'five' men unloaded it and stored it up by the fence. It is in huge great logs and how Jon is ever going to split them I just don't know. We now have enough wood to last us about three years. By 12.00 I decided they electricity was not going to go off and it looks like I might have to go through it all again on Thursday.
I met Jon at the driving range and we hit 50 balls each and then went to a little bar and had a sandwich. It was a lovely day today and we were able to sit outside.
By the time I got back it was time to take Totty for her walk.
I had a lovely chat to Sonia in England this morning, she was very surprised to hear from me and it was lovely to talk to her. I am really glad we have this special deal with Skype.
I met Jon at the driving range and we hit 50 balls each and then went to a little bar and had a sandwich. It was a lovely day today and we were able to sit outside.
By the time I got back it was time to take Totty for her walk.
I had a lovely chat to Sonia in England this morning, she was very surprised to hear from me and it was lovely to talk to her. I am really glad we have this special deal with Skype.
Saturday, 15 August 2009
No golf today either
The weather was really wild again last night and we had a lot of rain. I was woken by the phone ringing which was Andy to say the golf course was flooded and so our lesson was cancelled. If it dries up we can go along to the driving range and hit some balls but it is looking doubtful.
After a lovely video call to Kirsty and James we went out for a coffee but it was still raining.
I don't really know where the day went, a bit of pottering, a bit of housework, read a bit and then made roast chicken dinner followed by apple crumble (I wish you could get Bramley apples here, we have to use Granny Smith) and lovely NZ custard.
Jon lit the fire but with the cooker on it became so hot we had to open all the windows! The forecast is for fine weather and 19 degrees tomorrow. They are doing work on the electricity system tomorrow and so we will have none from 9.00 to 3.00 what a pain!
Well it is still raining so I am now off to bed and look forward to a better day tomorrow.
After a lovely video call to Kirsty and James we went out for a coffee but it was still raining.
I don't really know where the day went, a bit of pottering, a bit of housework, read a bit and then made roast chicken dinner followed by apple crumble (I wish you could get Bramley apples here, we have to use Granny Smith) and lovely NZ custard.
Jon lit the fire but with the cooker on it became so hot we had to open all the windows! The forecast is for fine weather and 19 degrees tomorrow. They are doing work on the electricity system tomorrow and so we will have none from 9.00 to 3.00 what a pain!
Well it is still raining so I am now off to bed and look forward to a better day tomorrow.
No golf today
Our lesson has been changed to Sunday as there is a competition on today. Just as well really as the weather was wild last night and is pretty bad this morning.
Jane has got her holiday dates confirmed for 18 January to 2 February so we can now look for a flight for her, she is so excited. We called Malcolm this morning as he is thinking of coming out and was planning for January but now it would be better if he comes in February so we will be in for a busy time at the start of the New Year.
We went over to Bay Fair for coffee and they have set up a squash court in the shopping mall and are holding the NZ women's championships there. It has been free to go in all week but today was the semi final and you had to pay although you could stand at the side and see very well. We did a bit of shopping and I bought a body warmer which will be good for golf as I feel the cold so don't like to go without a jacket so hopefully this will be OK. I got a real bargain as when I got to the check out it had been reduced to $10 (£4) from $45. We also bought two bunches of daffodils - I find it very strange buying daffodils in August!
We got back and had some lunch and then took advantage of a dry spell to take Totty out. The dry spell didn't last for the whole of the walk but we didn't get too wet. It is getting really pretty around here now as so many trees are coming out in blossom and lots of shrubs are starting to flower. The camellia bushes are really lovely and there are so many of them, nearly every garden has at least one.
When we got back we lit the fire and had a cup of tea and the rain looks set for the rest of the day.
Jane has got her holiday dates confirmed for 18 January to 2 February so we can now look for a flight for her, she is so excited. We called Malcolm this morning as he is thinking of coming out and was planning for January but now it would be better if he comes in February so we will be in for a busy time at the start of the New Year.
We went over to Bay Fair for coffee and they have set up a squash court in the shopping mall and are holding the NZ women's championships there. It has been free to go in all week but today was the semi final and you had to pay although you could stand at the side and see very well. We did a bit of shopping and I bought a body warmer which will be good for golf as I feel the cold so don't like to go without a jacket so hopefully this will be OK. I got a real bargain as when I got to the check out it had been reduced to $10 (£4) from $45. We also bought two bunches of daffodils - I find it very strange buying daffodils in August!
We got back and had some lunch and then took advantage of a dry spell to take Totty out. The dry spell didn't last for the whole of the walk but we didn't get too wet. It is getting really pretty around here now as so many trees are coming out in blossom and lots of shrubs are starting to flower. The camellia bushes are really lovely and there are so many of them, nearly every garden has at least one.
When we got back we lit the fire and had a cup of tea and the rain looks set for the rest of the day.
Friday, 14 August 2009
I should have felt really well today....
but my reflexology session didn't seem to do me much good. I woke up feeling quite rough and my back was killing me. Where he had massaged my foot at the bottom was really tender, too.
I set off walking with Totty but it started to pour with rain and she did not look happy to we turned back and she ran all the way!
I went off to the Red Cross shop and it was just Lorraine and I today. Lorraine is quite funny as she sorts through all the clothes and tries so much on, she spends most of her time in the changing rooms! We are still getting lots of stock in from Australia and it does not stay around for long. I put out four boxes of children's and baby clothes and it was going as fast as I was putting it out - some of it is really lovely and still with the labels on. The morning went over very fast but my back felt like it was dragging me down and I was glad when I finished.
After a quick trip to the supermarket I got back in time for lunch with Jon and just before it started to rain really hard.
It rained for the rest of the day and got really windy and cold so I lit the fire and read my book.
Jon called to say Mark and Val had asked if we would like to go out to dinner with them tonight but I really didn't feel like sitting up at a table for a few hours as my back is still not good and it is so wet and cold to go out.
Much to Totty's delight it is fish and chip night. she is still so funny when Jon gets back with them. She just hears the garage open and she starts barking and doesn't stop until she gets her few chips and a bit of fish in her bowl. They are usually very hot and she then growls at them as she can't pick them up. She would really miss fish and chip night.
I set off walking with Totty but it started to pour with rain and she did not look happy to we turned back and she ran all the way!
I went off to the Red Cross shop and it was just Lorraine and I today. Lorraine is quite funny as she sorts through all the clothes and tries so much on, she spends most of her time in the changing rooms! We are still getting lots of stock in from Australia and it does not stay around for long. I put out four boxes of children's and baby clothes and it was going as fast as I was putting it out - some of it is really lovely and still with the labels on. The morning went over very fast but my back felt like it was dragging me down and I was glad when I finished.
After a quick trip to the supermarket I got back in time for lunch with Jon and just before it started to rain really hard.
It rained for the rest of the day and got really windy and cold so I lit the fire and read my book.
Jon called to say Mark and Val had asked if we would like to go out to dinner with them tonight but I really didn't feel like sitting up at a table for a few hours as my back is still not good and it is so wet and cold to go out.
Much to Totty's delight it is fish and chip night. she is still so funny when Jon gets back with them. She just hears the garage open and she starts barking and doesn't stop until she gets her few chips and a bit of fish in her bowl. They are usually very hot and she then growls at them as she can't pick them up. She would really miss fish and chip night.
Thursday, 13 August 2009
Thursday
I tried to get in touch with the yoga teacher last night to arrange a lesson for today but she did not answer so I will have to leave it till next week.
I had a chat with Jane this morning. I had called to see how Kirsty was after her last day at work but she was out with James.
Jane told me she has arranged to start yoga so I am pleased about that as I think it will help her and give her an interest.
I also had a chat with my friend in USA I haven't spoken to her for sometime in fact, since before Heather came so we had a lot to chat about.
It was late when I took the dog out this morning and she repaid me by rolling in something smelly - that is the first time she has done that over here, she now smells very bad.
I had a quick trip to the tip with cardboard and plastics and then went to the supermarket to buy some fruit and dog food then I came home and made a nice fruit salad.
After lunch I took Totty out again and then went over to see Alison and return the books she had lent me. We are going to a cancer charity event next Thursday evening. It is a big event all to do with Frocks and Divas though I am not quite sure. Bronwyn is on the production team and so we bought the tickets through her - I'll write about it next week.
I had my reflexology class tonight and was lucky enough to have my feet done by the teacher so I still have not done a treatment and next week is the charity event and the week after we will be in Auckland for a conference so I have to miss two weeks. My feet feel lovely now but he thinks I ought to go and see a chiropractor about my back and he says my hips are not brilliant - age!
I had a chat with Jane this morning. I had called to see how Kirsty was after her last day at work but she was out with James.
Jane told me she has arranged to start yoga so I am pleased about that as I think it will help her and give her an interest.
I also had a chat with my friend in USA I haven't spoken to her for sometime in fact, since before Heather came so we had a lot to chat about.
It was late when I took the dog out this morning and she repaid me by rolling in something smelly - that is the first time she has done that over here, she now smells very bad.
I had a quick trip to the tip with cardboard and plastics and then went to the supermarket to buy some fruit and dog food then I came home and made a nice fruit salad.
After lunch I took Totty out again and then went over to see Alison and return the books she had lent me. We are going to a cancer charity event next Thursday evening. It is a big event all to do with Frocks and Divas though I am not quite sure. Bronwyn is on the production team and so we bought the tickets through her - I'll write about it next week.
I had my reflexology class tonight and was lucky enough to have my feet done by the teacher so I still have not done a treatment and next week is the charity event and the week after we will be in Auckland for a conference so I have to miss two weeks. My feet feel lovely now but he thinks I ought to go and see a chiropractor about my back and he says my hips are not brilliant - age!
Wednesday, 12 August 2009
Wednesday
We had an email from Heather's friend, Sami to say the estate agent agreed with her and he will write to the landlord and ask him to get it sorted out - fingers crossed
I didn't do much today apart from take the dog out and do some housework and then I had a very pleasant afternoon reading my book!!!
I didn't do much today apart from take the dog out and do some housework and then I had a very pleasant afternoon reading my book!!!
Tuesday, 11 August 2009
Tuesday
I am still really angry at Heather's landlord and feel like writing to the papers. I know some students are bad and don't look after houses but if they start off with the house in a mess it is only going to get worse Aah!!!!!!!
I was in a bit of a rush this morning and I had two people wanting to chat online and I didn't have the time as I had my Body & Soul class to go to and needed to get Totty out, typical I don't suppose anyone will be around tomorrow when I have time!
I really enjoyed my class again and bought one of the class T shirts today. I stayed for a coffee and got chatting to a lady, Lesley, who must be in her late 70s and has had a stroke but is really fit and does so much, makes me feel ashamed at how much these ladies do, I hope I am as fit at their age.
Jon is trying to lose a few pounds so we are having salads for lunch and cutting out bread. I like salads but I like to have lots of things in them like beetroot and carrot and peppers etc so had to go to the supermarket and top up. He did try long life skimmed milk this morning as the fresh had gone off and he decided it was OK, I have been having that for years and prefer it - every little helps.
Jon went to the driving range to hit 50 balls before he went back to work, I haven't bothered this week but Andy hasn't sent us our homework either.
I just got all ready to take Totty out this afternoon and got to the door and it poured with rain so we had to wait until it had passed over.
I had a Lions meeting tonight and, Janice, who usually gives me a lift was not going so Jean called me to say she would take me but I had to meet her at the doctors car park and we could go in her car. The meeting was fine lots of business to discuss but it finished at 9.00. We drove home and I have to say I am a bit nervous driving with some of these ladies as they seem to chat a lot and I don't think they concentrate and tonight I had to shout 'red light' as she was about to go through it. Not sure how much more my nerves can take we seem to have an incident every time I have a lift with them. I wish my car was bigger then I could drive them even though I don't like driving in the dark!
I was in a bit of a rush this morning and I had two people wanting to chat online and I didn't have the time as I had my Body & Soul class to go to and needed to get Totty out, typical I don't suppose anyone will be around tomorrow when I have time!
I really enjoyed my class again and bought one of the class T shirts today. I stayed for a coffee and got chatting to a lady, Lesley, who must be in her late 70s and has had a stroke but is really fit and does so much, makes me feel ashamed at how much these ladies do, I hope I am as fit at their age.
Jon is trying to lose a few pounds so we are having salads for lunch and cutting out bread. I like salads but I like to have lots of things in them like beetroot and carrot and peppers etc so had to go to the supermarket and top up. He did try long life skimmed milk this morning as the fresh had gone off and he decided it was OK, I have been having that for years and prefer it - every little helps.
Jon went to the driving range to hit 50 balls before he went back to work, I haven't bothered this week but Andy hasn't sent us our homework either.
I just got all ready to take Totty out this afternoon and got to the door and it poured with rain so we had to wait until it had passed over.
I had a Lions meeting tonight and, Janice, who usually gives me a lift was not going so Jean called me to say she would take me but I had to meet her at the doctors car park and we could go in her car. The meeting was fine lots of business to discuss but it finished at 9.00. We drove home and I have to say I am a bit nervous driving with some of these ladies as they seem to chat a lot and I don't think they concentrate and tonight I had to shout 'red light' as she was about to go through it. Not sure how much more my nerves can take we seem to have an incident every time I have a lift with them. I wish my car was bigger then I could drive them even though I don't like driving in the dark!
Monday, 10 August 2009
Monday is washing day
And what a good day it was for getting it dried. all washed, dried and ironed by 4.30 what a star I am!
Apart from the above and taking Totty out twice and reading my very good book I haven't done anything else.
We had Indian for dinner tonight. It was a packet sauce called butter chicken which I haven't seen in the UK but it was very good and the right amount for two and just the tasty dinner I was needing.
Just as I was about to go to bed I checked my emails and there was one from Heather saying her new house in Derby is a mess. Her friend Sami had tried to move in as she has a few days work in Derby but the house is in no fit state. Sami took lots of photos and phoned the agent and is meeting up with him and the landlord tomorrow. I just hope they get it sorted out for them and we don't have a repeat of last year. I have seen the photos now and it is terrible and the landlord says he has cleaned it!!!!! The freezer is completely frozen and all the drawer fronts are broken and there is food still in it. The oven and grill are so dirty and have so much burnt on food they only look fit for the tip. There is so much grease and dirt between the cupboards on the floor you could scrape it off as it is so thick. I just don't know how these landlords get away with it. Fingers crossed the agent is better than the one she used last year. I spoke to Heather and she is going to let me know what happens.
Apart from the above and taking Totty out twice and reading my very good book I haven't done anything else.
We had Indian for dinner tonight. It was a packet sauce called butter chicken which I haven't seen in the UK but it was very good and the right amount for two and just the tasty dinner I was needing.
Just as I was about to go to bed I checked my emails and there was one from Heather saying her new house in Derby is a mess. Her friend Sami had tried to move in as she has a few days work in Derby but the house is in no fit state. Sami took lots of photos and phoned the agent and is meeting up with him and the landlord tomorrow. I just hope they get it sorted out for them and we don't have a repeat of last year. I have seen the photos now and it is terrible and the landlord says he has cleaned it!!!!! The freezer is completely frozen and all the drawer fronts are broken and there is food still in it. The oven and grill are so dirty and have so much burnt on food they only look fit for the tip. There is so much grease and dirt between the cupboards on the floor you could scrape it off as it is so thick. I just don't know how these landlords get away with it. Fingers crossed the agent is better than the one she used last year. I spoke to Heather and she is going to let me know what happens.
Sunday, 9 August 2009
Where has the sun gone?
I was up and online at 8.00 this morning so I could call Mary back. It was quite strange to think I spoke to her just as I was going to bed and she had had a busy day and all I had been doing was sleeping - I don't think I will ever get used to the time difference.
We had a lovely long chat and then Jon and Roger had a chat and I got ready to go out. After taking Totty out we were going out to Waihi to have a walk along the cliffs.
We seem to be jinxed with Waihi, the first time we went was in the summer and we had Totty with us and so we could not go onto the beach with the dog. Next time we went was with Heather and it started to rain as we got there and today it clouded over and looked really dull. However, we had a good walk along and it is really pretty. We walked to a lovely bay which took an hour but decided to go back as we were hungry. Next time we go we will take a picnic and go further as there are some waterfalls you can walk to but it takes 1hr 45min each way.
By the time we got back to the town I was starving so we found a little cafe and I had some lovely pumpkin soup and Jon had Thai fishcakes which were also very good.
We got back in time to take Totty out and then had a cup of tea and lit the fire as it is a bit nippy again today and as it has been cloudy the house feels a bit cold.
We had a lovely long chat and then Jon and Roger had a chat and I got ready to go out. After taking Totty out we were going out to Waihi to have a walk along the cliffs.
We seem to be jinxed with Waihi, the first time we went was in the summer and we had Totty with us and so we could not go onto the beach with the dog. Next time we went was with Heather and it started to rain as we got there and today it clouded over and looked really dull. However, we had a good walk along and it is really pretty. We walked to a lovely bay which took an hour but decided to go back as we were hungry. Next time we go we will take a picnic and go further as there are some waterfalls you can walk to but it takes 1hr 45min each way.
By the time we got back to the town I was starving so we found a little cafe and I had some lovely pumpkin soup and Jon had Thai fishcakes which were also very good.
We got back in time to take Totty out and then had a cup of tea and lit the fire as it is a bit nippy again today and as it has been cloudy the house feels a bit cold.
Saturday, 8 August 2009
Second Golf Lesson
Our golf lesson is at 1.00 again which is a bit of a bad time and we are going to try and change it next week.
By the time we take Totty out and then go out for coffee there is not time to do anything else as we need to have an early lunch as last week it was so late when we had finished our lesson and we were both very hungry.
This weeks lesson went much better as we went out onto the practice fairway and the time just flew by and by the end of the lesson we both felt we had achieved something and made some progress.
After our lesson we went into Tauranga. One of the colleges was holding a book sale and we had a look around and bought a bag of books for $5, two of them on how to play golf! The reason for going was to collect the unsold books to give to Lions who are holding a book sale in December. There were loads left over and at 3.30 they let charities in and you grab what you can. There were a few other Lions there and they had big boxes and a trolley so we loaded ourselves up and packed the cars and took them all to Bethlehem, a suburb of Tauranga, where we are storing them until the sale. Just as well Jon was with us, as the only man he was able to do a lot of the heavy lifting.
After that it was back to take Totty out again and then home for a cup of tea and a piece of cake and so another day goes by.
I phoned Mary as she had tried to Skype me. We only had a few minutes to chat as she was just off to an appointment with Katherine so I will call her again in the morning.
By the time we take Totty out and then go out for coffee there is not time to do anything else as we need to have an early lunch as last week it was so late when we had finished our lesson and we were both very hungry.
This weeks lesson went much better as we went out onto the practice fairway and the time just flew by and by the end of the lesson we both felt we had achieved something and made some progress.
After our lesson we went into Tauranga. One of the colleges was holding a book sale and we had a look around and bought a bag of books for $5, two of them on how to play golf! The reason for going was to collect the unsold books to give to Lions who are holding a book sale in December. There were loads left over and at 3.30 they let charities in and you grab what you can. There were a few other Lions there and they had big boxes and a trolley so we loaded ourselves up and packed the cars and took them all to Bethlehem, a suburb of Tauranga, where we are storing them until the sale. Just as well Jon was with us, as the only man he was able to do a lot of the heavy lifting.
After that it was back to take Totty out again and then home for a cup of tea and a piece of cake and so another day goes by.
I phoned Mary as she had tried to Skype me. We only had a few minutes to chat as she was just off to an appointment with Katherine so I will call her again in the morning.
Friday, 7 August 2009
Friday
It was off to the Red Cross shop today and just as well I went as there was only Bianca and myself there. I put out lots more of the Australian stock and it is much better quality than the stuff they get from here which is usually very well worn. Not sure how the stock comes from Oz can't see how it could be cost effective but there you go.
I bought a foot spa which will be good to use for my reflexology. It is brand new and still in the box with the two pots of cream it came with. I only had to pay $10 for it (£4).
I did my supermarket shop and didn't get too many electric shocks.
The weather was good again today and Totty and I had a lovely walk this afternoon.
It was fish and chips again tonight and it was every bit as good as it always is.
I bought a foot spa which will be good to use for my reflexology. It is brand new and still in the box with the two pots of cream it came with. I only had to pay $10 for it (£4).
I did my supermarket shop and didn't get too many electric shocks.
The weather was good again today and Totty and I had a lovely walk this afternoon.
It was fish and chips again tonight and it was every bit as good as it always is.
Thursday, 6 August 2009
Running out of things to write
Nothing much going on this week. Apart from taking Totty out and doing the vacuming I haven't done anything else.
It was really warm today - 18 degrees and really sunny.
On my way back with Totty this afternoon I met my neighbour waiting for her children to get off the school bus so we had a little chat and I waited with her. Her youngest daughter, Greer was two on Monday and she loves to give Totty biscuits and hold her lead.
I had a quick dash out to the post office to send my nephew's daughter's birthday present. I thought her birthday wa 21 but when I checked on his blog I saw it ws 12 so had to get the present posted today.
I had my reflexology class tonight and one of the other ladies, Letitia, did my feet and it was very good. I will have to do someone next week. He did not talk so much BS tonight.
It was really warm today - 18 degrees and really sunny.
On my way back with Totty this afternoon I met my neighbour waiting for her children to get off the school bus so we had a little chat and I waited with her. Her youngest daughter, Greer was two on Monday and she loves to give Totty biscuits and hold her lead.
I had a quick dash out to the post office to send my nephew's daughter's birthday present. I thought her birthday wa 21 but when I checked on his blog I saw it ws 12 so had to get the present posted today.
I had my reflexology class tonight and one of the other ladies, Letitia, did my feet and it was very good. I will have to do someone next week. He did not talk so much BS tonight.
Wednesday, 5 August 2009
Haircut today
I have had my haircut again and asked him to cut it shorter this time and shape it round my ears. It always look nice when I come out but it takes me a few washes to be able to do it myself but he does give a good head massage.
I went into Tauranga after I had had my hair done, the first time on my own since Heather went back but it was OK. I had a coffee then went to the library and got a Penny Vincenzi book out that I have not read - I love her books. I can't wait to get into that but must finish one I am reading first.
The dress shop I have bought a few things from in the past had a sale on of winter stock so I had a look around and came out with three skirts all reduced to $30 each which is about £16 and all really good skirts reduced from £60 -70 so felt very pleased with myself. I then went and bought some new trainers for keep fit as mine are a bit of a mess now having used them for so much walking.
After lunch I sat and read my book so I had a really lazy day.
I went into Tauranga after I had had my hair done, the first time on my own since Heather went back but it was OK. I had a coffee then went to the library and got a Penny Vincenzi book out that I have not read - I love her books. I can't wait to get into that but must finish one I am reading first.
The dress shop I have bought a few things from in the past had a sale on of winter stock so I had a look around and came out with three skirts all reduced to $30 each which is about £16 and all really good skirts reduced from £60 -70 so felt very pleased with myself. I then went and bought some new trainers for keep fit as mine are a bit of a mess now having used them for so much walking.
After lunch I sat and read my book so I had a really lazy day.
Tuesday, 4 August 2009
Tuesday
I must have been a bit slower on my walk with Totty this morning, I thought I had plenty of time but by the time I got back it was time to rush out to my class. I got there in time so didn't have the embarrassment of walking in when they had started. I really enjoyed it again and feel like I had a good workout.
I went to the supermarket to get some more fruit and veg and then it was home to read the Mail online which I did until Jon came home for his lunch. He found out this week that Igrox has been sold. I think we have probably had a lucky escape as all the employees have been told their jobs are safe for six months and then who knows. Not sure of all the details but it looks like they might have been suffering from the recession but it is good they have been bought.
I watched a film this afternoon, The Other Boleyn Girl which was very good. I don't usually watch TV during the day so feel very guilty but never mind.
It is chilli for dinner tonight, I hope I haven't made it too hot.
I went to the supermarket to get some more fruit and veg and then it was home to read the Mail online which I did until Jon came home for his lunch. He found out this week that Igrox has been sold. I think we have probably had a lucky escape as all the employees have been told their jobs are safe for six months and then who knows. Not sure of all the details but it looks like they might have been suffering from the recession but it is good they have been bought.
I watched a film this afternoon, The Other Boleyn Girl which was very good. I don't usually watch TV during the day so feel very guilty but never mind.
It is chilli for dinner tonight, I hope I haven't made it too hot.
Monday, 3 August 2009
Housework, housework and more housework!
I had a busy day of housework today cleaning all the kitchen units and on top of them. Living in another persons house is a bit strange and I don't want it to get too messy and then have to have a huge clean up when we leave so it is better to do it as I go along.
It was a sunny day so I got all my washing dry outside which saved using the dryer - our electricity bill was very high when Heather was here, I used the dryer more as the weather was so bad and also we probably used more hot water and of course there was the radiator in her room. It will be interesting to see what it is like next month.
Apart from a quick trip to the post office and take Totty out twice that was all I did but I felt like I had run a marathon!
The weather is still warm but I don't think we have seen the last of the cold weather as it is only the beginning of August.
It was a sunny day so I got all my washing dry outside which saved using the dryer - our electricity bill was very high when Heather was here, I used the dryer more as the weather was so bad and also we probably used more hot water and of course there was the radiator in her room. It will be interesting to see what it is like next month.
Apart from a quick trip to the post office and take Totty out twice that was all I did but I felt like I had run a marathon!
The weather is still warm but I don't think we have seen the last of the cold weather as it is only the beginning of August.
Sunday, 2 August 2009
Sunny Sunday
It was lovely and warm this morning and we took Totty down to the beach. The tide was a long way out but I didn't have my wellies on to go walking along the beach as it was still very wet.
We went up to Gate Pa shopping area and had coffee before going to Mitre 10 which is a DIY store and you would think you were in B & Q as the colours are the same. We needed a new hosepipe and a cover for the BBQ as the old one has holes in it and is letting the rain in. I bought a rotating brush, a bit like an electric feather duster, to clean the blinds. We only have blinds, no curtains, and they get very dusty and are a real pain to clean this new thing seems to do a good job.
After lunch we went down to the driving range and had 50 balls each. I just don't seem to be able to get a grip on the club that feels comfortable. However, by the last ball I was hitting it more than missing it! I am still not sure though. The thing is if I don't do it and Jon does I could find myself at home on my own at weekends and I don't want that either so I had better keep on and hope it gets better.
We went up to Gate Pa shopping area and had coffee before going to Mitre 10 which is a DIY store and you would think you were in B & Q as the colours are the same. We needed a new hosepipe and a cover for the BBQ as the old one has holes in it and is letting the rain in. I bought a rotating brush, a bit like an electric feather duster, to clean the blinds. We only have blinds, no curtains, and they get very dusty and are a real pain to clean this new thing seems to do a good job.
After lunch we went down to the driving range and had 50 balls each. I just don't seem to be able to get a grip on the club that feels comfortable. However, by the last ball I was hitting it more than missing it! I am still not sure though. The thing is if I don't do it and Jon does I could find myself at home on my own at weekends and I don't want that either so I had better keep on and hope it gets better.
Saturday, 1 August 2009
Not sure golf is for me.....
....I'll give it a chance but not sure how it will go.
After taking Totty out for her walk we went to Bayfair for coffee and a look around the shops until it was time for our golf lesson. Andy, the instructor is very young and enthusiastic. We went down to the driving range after being fitted for a club to practice with. We had a basket of 50 balls each and he proceeded to tell us how to hold the club, it feels very strange, and how to stand, that feels very strange, too. It all looks so easy on the TV but I found it hard and I was as stiff as a pole and really didn't do well. It seemed a very long hour and I was glad when it was over. My back hurt, my hands and fingers hurt and my legs hurt in fact, I hurt all over and Jon wasn't much better. Andy said we need to relax!!!! There is so much to think about We are booked in for six weeks but not sure if I will like it or not. Jon is eager to keep going and I suppose after just one lesson it is too soon to make a decision one way or the other.
We went into Tauranga and had some lunch before a quick trip to buy some wine and then back to take Totty out again.
The weather seems to be much better now, not as cold or as wet as it was when Heather was here - sod's law!
We had a nice dinner but I am still not enjoying wine but did enjoy my weekly G & T.
We lit the fire but it was so warm we had to open the patio doors! I don't think we will bother with a fire tomorrow.
After taking Totty out for her walk we went to Bayfair for coffee and a look around the shops until it was time for our golf lesson. Andy, the instructor is very young and enthusiastic. We went down to the driving range after being fitted for a club to practice with. We had a basket of 50 balls each and he proceeded to tell us how to hold the club, it feels very strange, and how to stand, that feels very strange, too. It all looks so easy on the TV but I found it hard and I was as stiff as a pole and really didn't do well. It seemed a very long hour and I was glad when it was over. My back hurt, my hands and fingers hurt and my legs hurt in fact, I hurt all over and Jon wasn't much better. Andy said we need to relax!!!! There is so much to think about We are booked in for six weeks but not sure if I will like it or not. Jon is eager to keep going and I suppose after just one lesson it is too soon to make a decision one way or the other.
We went into Tauranga and had some lunch before a quick trip to buy some wine and then back to take Totty out again.
The weather seems to be much better now, not as cold or as wet as it was when Heather was here - sod's law!
We had a nice dinner but I am still not enjoying wine but did enjoy my weekly G & T.
We lit the fire but it was so warm we had to open the patio doors! I don't think we will bother with a fire tomorrow.
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