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.