As Totty would not get a walk this afternoon we took her up to the quarry this morning to give her a good walk. It was lovely up there. I never tire of the views from the top.
We got back and then were off again to have coffee and buy a GOOD knife. I am fed up trying to cut meat with the one I have. I found a really good one but I think it will have to be kept in a box in the drawer as it is so sharp.
We also popped in to the Aussie Butcher. I used to buy all my meat from there but stopped as there was a horrible smell in the shop and the last time I could taste it on the meat. It was a very strong butcher smell but it put me off and so I had not been back. However, this morning there was no smell and the meat does look very good so maybe I will try it again.
We bought some beer and wine to take with us this evening and then went home for lunch and I had an hour sitting on the deck but it was very hot.
I then made the salad which was four varieties of tomato with black beans and a dressing of mustard seeds, cumin and a whole green chilli chopped and sprinkled with parsley and I only brough a little bit back with me in the dish.
We went along just after 4.30 but were still the first to arrive. Tricia is a nurse and her husband is a GP. He was making an avocado dip and had already put the 'pig' on to roast on the bbq and it looked really good. There were about 30 or so people and a few children and it was a lovely evening. The salads were amazing - too many to mention but one in particular was really good and was beetroot, red onion and poached pears with walnuts on a bed of lettuce, delicious. There was so much pork and it was really good. I have never seen a whole pig cooked on a bbq! Then the puddings came out and they were all soooooo yummy with lovely meringue with cream and passion fruit, Lamingtons, huge profiteroles and a lovely ice cream with marshmallows and blueberries so much so for cutting back.
We met lots of neighbours and it was really funny as some of them didn't know others and we were all asking each other where abouts on the street we lived. The main thread with most of these people was 'dogs' and I knew a few of them but only through the dogs so it will now be nice to meet them all again and actually know them. A really good evening which both of us enjoyed very much.
We got back about 9.30 in time for coffee and then bed.
WEATHER
Hot an sunny all day, this is getting boring!
Sunday, 28 February 2010
Saturday, 27 February 2010
A lovely afternoon on Lake Tarawera
We were a bit lazy this morning and didn't get out with Totty till nearly 10.00 but she didn't mind.
We then went up to Gate Pa for coffee and I bought some coloured tomatoes in the veg shop there for the salad I need to make for Sunday's bbq. I noticed that the fruit and veg are soo much cheaper there and they are very nice and a good variety so I think I might start getting my fruit and veg from them.
On our way back we stopped in Greerton, a small suburb, and found some nice shorts for Jon.
By the time we got back it was time to leave to go and meet Ross and Sandra down at the lake so off we went again. We had to stop in Te Puke on the way as I had forgotten to take a Sea Legs and didn't want to be sick on the boat.
We arrived a bit late but they had only just got there and put the boat in off the trailer. We had lunch and then set off. The boat is very nice, it has room to sleep two at the front and seating for six people at the back. Ross took us round to where the tourists used to go to get to the Pink and White Terraces before the 1886 quake and eruption of Mt Tarawera. We stopped at Hot Water Beach and got off straight into the water where there is a small camping area in the bay. The sand is very hot when you stand in it and the water was boiling in some parts due to the thermal activity. Shame I hadn't taken my costume a swim would have been lovely but they say they will take us again. We then took a trip around the lake and it was really beautiful and we could see trout jumping out of the water. There is a small jetty at the far end of the lake and Sandra said she will take us there and drop us off and we can take a picnic and then walk up to Tarawera Falls and she will pick us up in the boat later, sounds like it will be really nice and something to look forward to.
We then had a high speed rush to get back to the dock to collect a pizza for Ross and Sandra as they were staying the night down there and as there had been problem with the water at the restaurant they were not opening for dinner. We made it back in time and they were still open so we finished the day with a very nice, chilled glass of wine overlooking the lake. What a lovely time we had.
It was nearly 7.00 by the time we got back so Totty missed out on an afternoon walk.
I cooked dinner and as we were tired we just watched TV and had an early night.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny all day.
We then went up to Gate Pa for coffee and I bought some coloured tomatoes in the veg shop there for the salad I need to make for Sunday's bbq. I noticed that the fruit and veg are soo much cheaper there and they are very nice and a good variety so I think I might start getting my fruit and veg from them.
On our way back we stopped in Greerton, a small suburb, and found some nice shorts for Jon.
By the time we got back it was time to leave to go and meet Ross and Sandra down at the lake so off we went again. We had to stop in Te Puke on the way as I had forgotten to take a Sea Legs and didn't want to be sick on the boat.
We arrived a bit late but they had only just got there and put the boat in off the trailer. We had lunch and then set off. The boat is very nice, it has room to sleep two at the front and seating for six people at the back. Ross took us round to where the tourists used to go to get to the Pink and White Terraces before the 1886 quake and eruption of Mt Tarawera. We stopped at Hot Water Beach and got off straight into the water where there is a small camping area in the bay. The sand is very hot when you stand in it and the water was boiling in some parts due to the thermal activity. Shame I hadn't taken my costume a swim would have been lovely but they say they will take us again. We then took a trip around the lake and it was really beautiful and we could see trout jumping out of the water. There is a small jetty at the far end of the lake and Sandra said she will take us there and drop us off and we can take a picnic and then walk up to Tarawera Falls and she will pick us up in the boat later, sounds like it will be really nice and something to look forward to.
We then had a high speed rush to get back to the dock to collect a pizza for Ross and Sandra as they were staying the night down there and as there had been problem with the water at the restaurant they were not opening for dinner. We made it back in time and they were still open so we finished the day with a very nice, chilled glass of wine overlooking the lake. What a lovely time we had.
It was nearly 7.00 by the time we got back so Totty missed out on an afternoon walk.
I cooked dinner and as we were tired we just watched TV and had an early night.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny all day.
Friday, 26 February 2010
Friday and it is still hot
Took Totty out for her walk and there was a bit of a chill in the air.
Got to the Red Cross Shop and had a very busy morning there with lots of clothes to be put out. They will have a sale next week as they have all the winter stock to come in and so there will be a changeover.
I then had 45 minutes to do my supermarket shop and get home to do Jon's lunch. I think I will change my shopping day to Thursday as it always seems a rush now on Fridays.
Managed to get the shopping all put away before Jon came in for lunch.
Took Totty to the vet again to have her anal glands cleaned. He said she was a very good patient and she is she just stands still and lets him do it. Got her worm pill and he looked at a little sore spot on her paw that I have been treating with Tea Tree. He told me to carry on with TT but to keep an eye on it. She got a treat from the nurse for being good!
We had some very good fish and chips tonight but I only had a few chips and had a salad as I am putting too much weight on and need to stop
WEATHER
It was a nice cool walk this morning but got hotter as the day went by and was still hot at bedtime
Thursday, 25 February 2010
Angosturas Bitters!!!
I was in the middle of a lovely conversation on Skype with Anne in Spain and suddenly she got cut off and I remembered that I had had a card to say they were working on the main box on the street and would cut it off but I had forgotten. I hope we can continue our chat on Monday morning, our time.
I had so many places to go to today that I had to make a list and number them in order so that I could work my way around and not have to back track.
First I went to the tip to get rid of the paper and cardboard. I then carried on to the liquor store and finally manged to buy some Angostura's Bitters for me and Janice. It cost $25 a bottle but hopefully it will last for a long time.
I then carried on into Tauranga and after parking the car went for a coffee. They were just bringing some really nice looking cinnamon whirls out of the oven and I couldn't resist, yummy. I then popped into one of my favorite shops which just happened to have a sale on and I bought a very nice red top that will be nice for autumn. Then it was onto the library and I got the latest Maev Binchy Book and a few books for Jon. A quick look around the shops and then it was time to get home for lunch. I dropped a card off to my hairdresser on the way to wish him luck on his uni course which he starts on Monday.
After lunch I did a bit of housework as it was a bit cooler and when Jon came home we managed to get Totty out before we had a welcome shower of rain. While we were out we found a little Labrador puppy on the road and she was so sweet but I couldn't just leave her and as we were near Findlay's house I knocked on the door and Tricia said she knew who the dog belonged to and would take her back. She said they were having a neighbourhood bbq on Sunday and invited us to come along with a salad and after 4.30 so we said that would be lovely.
WEATHER
A shower of rain overnight and a bit damp this morning then hot and sunny before more showers this evening.
I had so many places to go to today that I had to make a list and number them in order so that I could work my way around and not have to back track.
First I went to the tip to get rid of the paper and cardboard. I then carried on to the liquor store and finally manged to buy some Angostura's Bitters for me and Janice. It cost $25 a bottle but hopefully it will last for a long time.
I then carried on into Tauranga and after parking the car went for a coffee. They were just bringing some really nice looking cinnamon whirls out of the oven and I couldn't resist, yummy. I then popped into one of my favorite shops which just happened to have a sale on and I bought a very nice red top that will be nice for autumn. Then it was onto the library and I got the latest Maev Binchy Book and a few books for Jon. A quick look around the shops and then it was time to get home for lunch. I dropped a card off to my hairdresser on the way to wish him luck on his uni course which he starts on Monday.
After lunch I did a bit of housework as it was a bit cooler and when Jon came home we managed to get Totty out before we had a welcome shower of rain. While we were out we found a little Labrador puppy on the road and she was so sweet but I couldn't just leave her and as we were near Findlay's house I knocked on the door and Tricia said she knew who the dog belonged to and would take her back. She said they were having a neighbourhood bbq on Sunday and invited us to come along with a salad and after 4.30 so we said that would be lovely.
WEATHER
A shower of rain overnight and a bit damp this morning then hot and sunny before more showers this evening.
Wednesday, 24 February 2010
Wednesday
Took Totty out for a quick walk as I had to get to my class.
The pool was cooler this week and much better. It was a good class but it is hard to concentrate on the exercises when there are hang gliders flying around the Mount and obviously enjoying themselves. It looks so relaxing the way they fly around but I won't be giving it a try.
After the class we all met up for coffee and it is always interesting to chat to the ladies. so many of them have English connections and many have been out here for years but still consider themselves English.
When I got back it was just too hot to do much and as Jon wasn't coming home I was able to take my time over my housework and did manage to get it done and hang my washing out, which reminds me it is still out so I will have to go and get it in!
One of the ladies from Lions called to ask me if I would consider a 'job' next year and they thought treasurer! I told her there was NO WAY I would ever take on a treasurer job after Brownies and the playgroup - I just don't do figures. I told her I need to be in Lions a bit longer and learn a bit more about it before I take on a job. I also don't feel I could give the commitment to it. Jon and I go away a lot and I don't like to let people down.
Jon came home and we took Totty out and along the way we found a black Labrador puppy. It was sat across the road and came over when she saw us. I couldn't leave her as she would have been hit by a car so I knocked on the door where Findlay lives and asked his owner who I think is called Tricia. She knew the dog and said she would take her back. She told us they were having a neighbourhood bbq on Sunday and asked us if we would like to go. Her husband is cooking a pig or a lamb. We said that would be very nice and so she said just to bring a salad and something to drink and arrive after 4.30 so that is our weekend filled. We are going out with Ross and Sandra to Lake Tarawera on Saturday. Sounds good!
I cooked liver tonight but I couldn't eat it. It was in one big piece and I had to cut it and it made me feel quite ill and I have been thinking about having it since I saw a nice recipe on Masterchef. Oh well that will be off my list for a little while until I can face it again. Totty is the winner as what was left after our dinner she can have tomorrow. In future I will have to ask the butcher to cut it in thin slices for me.
Well I had better go and get my washing in as we might have a shower of rain tonight.
WEATHER
A bit cloudy this morning but the sun came out and it was really hot - 28 and humid.
The pool was cooler this week and much better. It was a good class but it is hard to concentrate on the exercises when there are hang gliders flying around the Mount and obviously enjoying themselves. It looks so relaxing the way they fly around but I won't be giving it a try.
After the class we all met up for coffee and it is always interesting to chat to the ladies. so many of them have English connections and many have been out here for years but still consider themselves English.
When I got back it was just too hot to do much and as Jon wasn't coming home I was able to take my time over my housework and did manage to get it done and hang my washing out, which reminds me it is still out so I will have to go and get it in!
One of the ladies from Lions called to ask me if I would consider a 'job' next year and they thought treasurer! I told her there was NO WAY I would ever take on a treasurer job after Brownies and the playgroup - I just don't do figures. I told her I need to be in Lions a bit longer and learn a bit more about it before I take on a job. I also don't feel I could give the commitment to it. Jon and I go away a lot and I don't like to let people down.
Jon came home and we took Totty out and along the way we found a black Labrador puppy. It was sat across the road and came over when she saw us. I couldn't leave her as she would have been hit by a car so I knocked on the door where Findlay lives and asked his owner who I think is called Tricia. She knew the dog and said she would take her back. She told us they were having a neighbourhood bbq on Sunday and asked us if we would like to go. Her husband is cooking a pig or a lamb. We said that would be very nice and so she said just to bring a salad and something to drink and arrive after 4.30 so that is our weekend filled. We are going out with Ross and Sandra to Lake Tarawera on Saturday. Sounds good!
I cooked liver tonight but I couldn't eat it. It was in one big piece and I had to cut it and it made me feel quite ill and I have been thinking about having it since I saw a nice recipe on Masterchef. Oh well that will be off my list for a little while until I can face it again. Totty is the winner as what was left after our dinner she can have tomorrow. In future I will have to ask the butcher to cut it in thin slices for me.
Well I had better go and get my washing in as we might have a shower of rain tonight.
WEATHER
A bit cloudy this morning but the sun came out and it was really hot - 28 and humid.
Monday, 22 February 2010
Tuesday and nearly another month goes by
Woke up with a really bad headache this morning and as it did not clear even after a walk with Totty I decided not to go to my keep fit class as jumping up and down would not help.
So I didn't really do much today. I watched a bit of TV and did a bit of this and that and then it was time for Jon to come home for lunch.
My head was still bad so I thought I would have a cup of tea as I think that might be the problem. It is hot and I am not drinking tea and I think it is lack of caffeine that is doing it.
I took Totty out for an early walk as I had my Lions meeting at 5.30 so needed to shower and wash my hair and then go and pick Janice up. We then picked Helen up and went into Tauranga.
It was a nice evening and the dinner was good although the speaker was a bit sombre. He is a Lions man and talked about the importance of membership. They seem to be having the problems here that they have had in the UK with community clubs - people just don't seem to have the time for them with the busy lives they lead.
I got back about 10.00 and had a coffee and a play on Farmville.
The paddling pool pump was already off when I got back. I wonder if maybe they have had a power bill in and it has been costing a lot of money to run? Whatever it is I am very glad it has stopped without me having to say anything to them.
WEATHER
Overcast and very warm first thing
So I didn't really do much today. I watched a bit of TV and did a bit of this and that and then it was time for Jon to come home for lunch.
My head was still bad so I thought I would have a cup of tea as I think that might be the problem. It is hot and I am not drinking tea and I think it is lack of caffeine that is doing it.
I took Totty out for an early walk as I had my Lions meeting at 5.30 so needed to shower and wash my hair and then go and pick Janice up. We then picked Helen up and went into Tauranga.
It was a nice evening and the dinner was good although the speaker was a bit sombre. He is a Lions man and talked about the importance of membership. They seem to be having the problems here that they have had in the UK with community clubs - people just don't seem to have the time for them with the busy lives they lead.
I got back about 10.00 and had a coffee and a play on Farmville.
The paddling pool pump was already off when I got back. I wonder if maybe they have had a power bill in and it has been costing a lot of money to run? Whatever it is I am very glad it has stopped without me having to say anything to them.
WEATHER
Overcast and very warm first thing
Monday
It was so hot through the night I had to get up and turn the fan on!
I was glad when it was morning and I could get up and have a shower! I called Sonia and had a lovely long chat to her, it is amazing how fast an hour goes over!
I then took Totty out and it was really hot. I had managed to get the sheets in the washing machine in between all my chats and walks and hung them out but I don't think it will be long before they are dry and ready to come in again.
Heather called me on Skype and we had a chat and then I went out to the supermarket to save me going tomorrow as I usually feel hot and sweaty after my class and prefer to come straight home.
Jon came home for lunch and said it felt very hot out today.
After my late night last night I have felt really tired all day, I can't do late nights anymore!
I caught up with Neighbours and am now up to date which is probably the first time for weeks and I managed to get the ironing done while watching so that was a plus.
When Jon got home we took Totty out but she was not very enthusiastic as it was still very hot.
We had dinner and as I was still really tired I had a relatively early night for me.
WEATHER
Very hot again all day
I was glad when it was morning and I could get up and have a shower! I called Sonia and had a lovely long chat to her, it is amazing how fast an hour goes over!
I then took Totty out and it was really hot. I had managed to get the sheets in the washing machine in between all my chats and walks and hung them out but I don't think it will be long before they are dry and ready to come in again.
Heather called me on Skype and we had a chat and then I went out to the supermarket to save me going tomorrow as I usually feel hot and sweaty after my class and prefer to come straight home.
Jon came home for lunch and said it felt very hot out today.
After my late night last night I have felt really tired all day, I can't do late nights anymore!
I caught up with Neighbours and am now up to date which is probably the first time for weeks and I managed to get the ironing done while watching so that was a plus.
When Jon got home we took Totty out but she was not very enthusiastic as it was still very hot.
We had dinner and as I was still really tired I had a relatively early night for me.
WEATHER
Very hot again all day
Sunday, 21 February 2010
Sunny Sunday, too
The paddling pool pump was turned off at 12.08 last night so not sure if it is on a time switch or it is when they go to bed bu it is so nice when it is turned off.
We took Totty out early as we didn't know if we were going out with Ross and Sandra on the boat however, they sent a text to Jon to say we will do it next weekend instead. Jon called Malcolm to see how he was while I made a picnic lunch.
After all that it was 10.30 by the time we got to the beach and the bar to have breakfast. They were very busy and we had to wait much longer than usual and we were starving. It was worth the wait though. I had a lovely big bowl of fruit salad and yogurt and Jon had poached eggs with bacon and toast followed by coffee. So it was 12.00 by the time we got settled on the beach where we spent another lovely day in the sun and it was much hotter than yesterday.
We went home about 4.00 and showered and had a cup of tea before taking Totty out and then we had a bbq on the deck as it was still so warm.
I called Mary on Skype and we had a long chat and at the same time Kirsty called us on the phone so we were having all sorts of mixed conversations.
It was12.40 when I went to bed but at least the pump was off again so there is a big improvement there.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny all day.
We took Totty out early as we didn't know if we were going out with Ross and Sandra on the boat however, they sent a text to Jon to say we will do it next weekend instead. Jon called Malcolm to see how he was while I made a picnic lunch.
After all that it was 10.30 by the time we got to the beach and the bar to have breakfast. They were very busy and we had to wait much longer than usual and we were starving. It was worth the wait though. I had a lovely big bowl of fruit salad and yogurt and Jon had poached eggs with bacon and toast followed by coffee. So it was 12.00 by the time we got settled on the beach where we spent another lovely day in the sun and it was much hotter than yesterday.
We went home about 4.00 and showered and had a cup of tea before taking Totty out and then we had a bbq on the deck as it was still so warm.
I called Mary on Skype and we had a long chat and at the same time Kirsty called us on the phone so we were having all sorts of mixed conversations.
It was12.40 when I went to bed but at least the pump was off again so there is a big improvement there.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny all day.
Saturday, 20 February 2010
Sunny Saturday
Last night when I was in bed and reading my book it suddenly went very quiet. It was 11.32 and the pump on the neighbours paddling pool was turned off!!!! it was soooooo good to listen to just nothing. I really hope they do it again tonight but it would be better at 10.30.
We took Totty down to Rotary Park and it was really nice down there, no wind, no people and calm water.
When we got back I made a picnic and we went down to Tay Street beach. We parked the car and went to the bar for coffee. Jon was looking at the breakfasts and drooling and I was looking at the very nice bowl of fruit, we may just have to try that one of these days.
We then went over to the beach and spent the day there. It was really nice not too hot and with our comfy chairs to sit on and the sunshade it was perfect. It was really quite busy for that beach and there were more people than there were on Christmas Day. We had our picnic and enjoyed it and then relaxed a bit more!
We left to go home at 4.00 and stopped off to get some cash and a few bit from the supermarket.
After a shower we had a cup of tea and then took Totty out.
When we got back Ross had called to ask if we wanted to go out with them on Lake Tarawera tomorrow. We phoned to say yes we would like to but he then said they may have to change their plans as something had come up but he will call us to let us know in the morning. I don't mind either way boat or beach either will be good.
We had venison for dinner tonight and I didn't dislike it but not sure I really liked it but Jon did.
We watched James Bond and then it was time for bed and I hope the pump will go off soon.
WEATHER
SUN, SUN AND MORE SUN.
We took Totty down to Rotary Park and it was really nice down there, no wind, no people and calm water.
When we got back I made a picnic and we went down to Tay Street beach. We parked the car and went to the bar for coffee. Jon was looking at the breakfasts and drooling and I was looking at the very nice bowl of fruit, we may just have to try that one of these days.
We then went over to the beach and spent the day there. It was really nice not too hot and with our comfy chairs to sit on and the sunshade it was perfect. It was really quite busy for that beach and there were more people than there were on Christmas Day. We had our picnic and enjoyed it and then relaxed a bit more!
We left to go home at 4.00 and stopped off to get some cash and a few bit from the supermarket.
After a shower we had a cup of tea and then took Totty out.
When we got back Ross had called to ask if we wanted to go out with them on Lake Tarawera tomorrow. We phoned to say yes we would like to but he then said they may have to change their plans as something had come up but he will call us to let us know in the morning. I don't mind either way boat or beach either will be good.
We had venison for dinner tonight and I didn't dislike it but not sure I really liked it but Jon did.
We watched James Bond and then it was time for bed and I hope the pump will go off soon.
WEATHER
SUN, SUN AND MORE SUN.
Friday, 19 February 2010
Back to the Red Cross
It was lovely walking Totty this morning as there was a lovely breeze.
I managed to get to the Red Cross by 9.00 this morning and it was good to be back. Les was there but the other lady who was due on with us had called in sick. It wasn't so busy today but there was a steady string of customers and we had lots of stock to get out with some lovely dresses if you are a size 8 -10!!!!!!
I went up to the loo and as I walked in I saw a rat, dead, in a trap right by the door ugh!!!! I walked round it to go to the loo and when I got back to the shop Les said phone down to Bianca (her daughter and the manager) and tell her and the manager of the processing room answered and I said there is a rat here in the loo and she said 'and you are telling me, why?' 'Cos I am not going to pick it up' I said! They have men down there who do the deliveries and lift all the furniture so I thought one of them could come and sort it. Well anyway Bianca had to sort it out and I had to help her as she hates killing so much as a spider. I hope there are no more and if there are they put the traps down when I am not around!
Les told me that Carol has got all her papers through and so can now go to UK on 1 March so she is very pleased.
I didn't finish there till 12.30 as Jon had a meeting at 1.00 so would be late home. I popped into the supermarket to buy some beer on the way home and Jon was actually home as his meeting had been brought forward so he was waiting for his lunch.
I spent the whole afternoon catching up with my blog and putting the photos on as it was too hot to do anything else.
Had some really good fish and chips tonight.
And now it is time for bed and I am glad to say it is not too hot.
WEATHER
It was lovely and cool this morning and it had got very windy through the night. By lunch it was as hot as ever.
I managed to get to the Red Cross by 9.00 this morning and it was good to be back. Les was there but the other lady who was due on with us had called in sick. It wasn't so busy today but there was a steady string of customers and we had lots of stock to get out with some lovely dresses if you are a size 8 -10!!!!!!
I went up to the loo and as I walked in I saw a rat, dead, in a trap right by the door ugh!!!! I walked round it to go to the loo and when I got back to the shop Les said phone down to Bianca (her daughter and the manager) and tell her and the manager of the processing room answered and I said there is a rat here in the loo and she said 'and you are telling me, why?' 'Cos I am not going to pick it up' I said! They have men down there who do the deliveries and lift all the furniture so I thought one of them could come and sort it. Well anyway Bianca had to sort it out and I had to help her as she hates killing so much as a spider. I hope there are no more and if there are they put the traps down when I am not around!
Les told me that Carol has got all her papers through and so can now go to UK on 1 March so she is very pleased.
I didn't finish there till 12.30 as Jon had a meeting at 1.00 so would be late home. I popped into the supermarket to buy some beer on the way home and Jon was actually home as his meeting had been brought forward so he was waiting for his lunch.
I spent the whole afternoon catching up with my blog and putting the photos on as it was too hot to do anything else.
Had some really good fish and chips tonight.
And now it is time for bed and I am glad to say it is not too hot.
WEATHER
It was lovely and cool this morning and it had got very windy through the night. By lunch it was as hot as ever.
Thursday, 18 February 2010
A very hot day and a visit to the consultant
I was up early as my appointment at the hospital was for 8.30 but I wanted to leave by 8.00 as although it is only about a mile, the school traffic might be heavy. Just as well I did as the traffic was backed to the roundabout and had I left later I would have been in a panic. When I got to the hospital all the parking spaces I had seen yesterday were full and i manged to get one on the road just outside the hospital grounds - typical hospital parking just like the UK!
The hospital is very nice and is relatively new and modern and clean. I checked in and waited in the main waiting area and then a nurse took me to wait for the consultant in another corridor where there was not so much as a poster on the walls to read. Just as well I didn't have to wait for long. Mr McAuly's registrar came out to meet me and I think he was Indian but spoke good English but was young enough to be my son!!!!! I told him how worried I was about this patch of pre malignant cells and asked him how long it would be before they change to being malignant. He was very good and explained it all to me and said it could take as long as 15 years which is why they have to keep checking people and it is the same virus that caused cervical cancer so I will have to have annual checks for that, too.
He examined me and said if I could tolerate the pain they would do it under local anaesthetic if not then it would be a general and the consultant would decide on the day. I would prefer local but we will wait and see. He then went to get Mr McAuly who is also very nice and looked very Irish! Jon laughed when I said that as he doesn't know what Irish people look like - not like leprechauns I said! He told me they will have me in for the procedure in about four weeks and I have to say I will be very glad to get it over with as it is such a worry knowing that it is there!
After that I had a well deserved cup of coffee in the hospital cafe which is very nice.
I then went to do my supermarket shop to save doing it on Friday and saw that one of my favorite shops, Postie+ had a sale on so just had to go in! I bought two T shirts, a long sleeved top for the cooler autumn and a pair of cropped trousers and all for $45 which is about £20. I then did my supermarket shop and bought some venison that Jon has been saying he fancies, I'm not sure about it but we will have it on Saturday night.
Feeling much happier I was able to tackle my housework and clean the bathrooms and do the rest of my ironing in just a couple of hours. Jon called from his meeting to see how I got on and said he would be home about 7.00 and said it was very hot in Auckland.
I took Totty out in the evening and when I got back Jon was in as the meeting had finished earlier than he thought.
We had a nice dinner of spiced lamb stir fried and served in pitta bread with a mango, mint and yogurt dressing with salad - very good.
Sleeping tonight is going to be hard I think, than goodness for the fan.
WEATHER
Really hot and very humid all day, lowest tonight is 20 degrees!
The hospital is very nice and is relatively new and modern and clean. I checked in and waited in the main waiting area and then a nurse took me to wait for the consultant in another corridor where there was not so much as a poster on the walls to read. Just as well I didn't have to wait for long. Mr McAuly's registrar came out to meet me and I think he was Indian but spoke good English but was young enough to be my son!!!!! I told him how worried I was about this patch of pre malignant cells and asked him how long it would be before they change to being malignant. He was very good and explained it all to me and said it could take as long as 15 years which is why they have to keep checking people and it is the same virus that caused cervical cancer so I will have to have annual checks for that, too.
He examined me and said if I could tolerate the pain they would do it under local anaesthetic if not then it would be a general and the consultant would decide on the day. I would prefer local but we will wait and see. He then went to get Mr McAuly who is also very nice and looked very Irish! Jon laughed when I said that as he doesn't know what Irish people look like - not like leprechauns I said! He told me they will have me in for the procedure in about four weeks and I have to say I will be very glad to get it over with as it is such a worry knowing that it is there!
After that I had a well deserved cup of coffee in the hospital cafe which is very nice.
I then went to do my supermarket shop to save doing it on Friday and saw that one of my favorite shops, Postie+ had a sale on so just had to go in! I bought two T shirts, a long sleeved top for the cooler autumn and a pair of cropped trousers and all for $45 which is about £20. I then did my supermarket shop and bought some venison that Jon has been saying he fancies, I'm not sure about it but we will have it on Saturday night.
Feeling much happier I was able to tackle my housework and clean the bathrooms and do the rest of my ironing in just a couple of hours. Jon called from his meeting to see how I got on and said he would be home about 7.00 and said it was very hot in Auckland.
I took Totty out in the evening and when I got back Jon was in as the meeting had finished earlier than he thought.
We had a nice dinner of spiced lamb stir fried and served in pitta bread with a mango, mint and yogurt dressing with salad - very good.
Sleeping tonight is going to be hard I think, than goodness for the fan.
WEATHER
Really hot and very humid all day, lowest tonight is 20 degrees!
Wednesday, 17 February 2010
Wednesday
Jon left for Auckland this morning till tomorrow. I gave Rene a quick call in Newmarket. She sounded well and was only in hospital for one day and as she had no temperature she was allowed home. I couldn't believe it, breast removal in one day! She has to go back in March. I hope she will be OK. She does very well for 86.
I left early for my swimming class so will have to take Totty out later. The class was good and the temperature in the pool was 33.1 degrees. The temperature in the other pool we go into after the lesson was 38 degrees. It started to drizzle again during the class and it is strange being in a pool in the rain!
Les was at the class and told me that she will have to return to S Africa as she cannot get a visa. She is here on a visitors visa and they have extended it to September so she will have had a year here. It is quite mad really as she has to pay to go back and apply from there and it could take 3 weeks or three months, just as well she has family there. Immigration is a difficult thing the world over. Another friend Carol is due to go to UK on 1 March to be with her son and daughter in law for the birth of her first grandchild and she applied in January and so far she has nothing and they say it could be another three months, so she is in a bit of a state.
We all went for coffee after the class, about ten of us and had a nice chat. I was in no rush as Jon was in Auckland.
I got back and took Totty out and then just did this and that and too much time on the computer.
I drove up to the hospital as I was not sure where to go or where to park for my appointment tomorrow and didn't want to leave it till the morning as I wouldn't have time for getting lost. Looks easy enough to park and I found my way to outpatients so I should be OK for the morning.
I took Totty out again in the evening and then cooked a baked potato with tuna for my dinner and I wasn't going to have a glass of wine but I did. I really must cut down on food and drink as all this staying in hotels and having dinners out has put on quite a few extra pounds and I don't like it.
WEATHER
Still humid and overcast.
I left early for my swimming class so will have to take Totty out later. The class was good and the temperature in the pool was 33.1 degrees. The temperature in the other pool we go into after the lesson was 38 degrees. It started to drizzle again during the class and it is strange being in a pool in the rain!
Les was at the class and told me that she will have to return to S Africa as she cannot get a visa. She is here on a visitors visa and they have extended it to September so she will have had a year here. It is quite mad really as she has to pay to go back and apply from there and it could take 3 weeks or three months, just as well she has family there. Immigration is a difficult thing the world over. Another friend Carol is due to go to UK on 1 March to be with her son and daughter in law for the birth of her first grandchild and she applied in January and so far she has nothing and they say it could be another three months, so she is in a bit of a state.
We all went for coffee after the class, about ten of us and had a nice chat. I was in no rush as Jon was in Auckland.
I got back and took Totty out and then just did this and that and too much time on the computer.
I drove up to the hospital as I was not sure where to go or where to park for my appointment tomorrow and didn't want to leave it till the morning as I wouldn't have time for getting lost. Looks easy enough to park and I found my way to outpatients so I should be OK for the morning.
I took Totty out again in the evening and then cooked a baked potato with tuna for my dinner and I wasn't going to have a glass of wine but I did. I really must cut down on food and drink as all this staying in hotels and having dinners out has put on quite a few extra pounds and I don't like it.
WEATHER
Still humid and overcast.
Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Tuesday
I took Totty out for a walk early as I had my keep fit class. I got a bit wet but not too much.
The class was hot again and all the ladies were saying it was difficult to sleep at night. This summer is certainly hotter than it was last year when we arrived. Keep fit ladies are having a lunch on 2 March which I have put my name down for.
I went straight home after the class and it had started to rain quite a lot but just drizzle which won't help the farmers or the gardens much.
I caught up with some of the TV I had recorded and did a bit of ironing but other than that nothing much - too hot! I did phone my friend Joan and we chatted for over an hour. She has her son and daughter in law and two children coming out from Canada tomorrow, they are staying for a month which will be lovely for her.
I had an email from Lions about going round the shops and asking for gifts for the raffle for Bride of the Year show in April. I really hated it last time I did it which was not long ago. I emailed back and said it was not very successful and I didn't like doing it but would be happy to donate 3 prizes myself. She did agree with me as she had been out that morning in Tauranga and had not had much success so we will see how it goes.
WEATHER
Wet but very humid this morning dried up later but no sun, still hot and humid
The class was hot again and all the ladies were saying it was difficult to sleep at night. This summer is certainly hotter than it was last year when we arrived. Keep fit ladies are having a lunch on 2 March which I have put my name down for.
I went straight home after the class and it had started to rain quite a lot but just drizzle which won't help the farmers or the gardens much.
I caught up with some of the TV I had recorded and did a bit of ironing but other than that nothing much - too hot! I did phone my friend Joan and we chatted for over an hour. She has her son and daughter in law and two children coming out from Canada tomorrow, they are staying for a month which will be lovely for her.
I had an email from Lions about going round the shops and asking for gifts for the raffle for Bride of the Year show in April. I really hated it last time I did it which was not long ago. I emailed back and said it was not very successful and I didn't like doing it but would be happy to donate 3 prizes myself. She did agree with me as she had been out that morning in Tauranga and had not had much success so we will see how it goes.
WEATHER
Wet but very humid this morning dried up later but no sun, still hot and humid
Monday, 15 February 2010
Monday and back to routine
I spent the whole of the day trying to get the washing and ironing sorted out in between going to the supermarket and walking Totty. Feels too hot to do much.
I managed to get some of the photos on Facebook but they have changed it again and it is driving me mad but no doubt I will get used to it and then they will change it again!
Jon came home and we took Totty down to Rotary Park and it was nice and cool down there.
The pump from the paddling pool next door is still annoying me at bedtime. It just drones on and on. If we have the fan on I don't hear it. I think it will be on for some weeks yet as the weather is still so good and the children use the pool every afternoon after school. I just wish they would turn it off for a couple of hours at bedtime. If it ever comes up in conversation I will say something but I don't want it to cause any trouble.
WEATHER
Very hot and humid, one shower of rain then humid again 20 degrees at bedtime
I managed to get some of the photos on Facebook but they have changed it again and it is driving me mad but no doubt I will get used to it and then they will change it again!
Jon came home and we took Totty down to Rotary Park and it was nice and cool down there.
The pump from the paddling pool next door is still annoying me at bedtime. It just drones on and on. If we have the fan on I don't hear it. I think it will be on for some weeks yet as the weather is still so good and the children use the pool every afternoon after school. I just wish they would turn it off for a couple of hours at bedtime. If it ever comes up in conversation I will say something but I don't want it to cause any trouble.
WEATHER
Very hot and humid, one shower of rain then humid again 20 degrees at bedtime
Sunday, 14 February 2010
A busy time in the South
SUNDAY
Last day and the sun is shining so we should have a good flight. We got to the airport in plenty of time and went into the Air New Zealand lounge but I didn't want champagne, too early. When we checked in the woman in Auckland had cancelled the window seat and we had an aisle and middle seat so we were not happy. Fortunately, the flight was not full and we changed seats and had the last row to ourselves. The flight was very good with lovely views and we arrived in Auckland on time. It was very hot and humid after the cold south!
The cases took ages to come out bet we eventually got on the shuttle to the car park, picked up the car and were on on way. We stopped at a place on the highway called Mercer and there was a cafe there which sold local pork, bacon and sausages and we had a sandwich with ham off the bone and salad on brown bread with mustard and it was sooooo yummy.
We arrived back in Tauranga and went to the supermarket and bought a ready cooked chicken and salad for dinner. it was nearly time for the kennels to open for collecting Totty so we sat in a park until it was time to save us coming out again. She was very pleased to see us and I told the kennel owner that we were putting our cases away now until Easter!
We had a nice evening at home and it felt very good to be back but it is so hot!
Saturday
Saturday was very wet and I felt sorry for the people who were booked to go to Milford or Doubtful Sound, they wouldn't see much.
We set off and drove to Manapouri where you get the boat to Doubtful Sound. We wanted to see if there were any hotels to stay when Malcolm comes over but there is nothing, it is very small.
We then drove up to Queenstown through the rain which wasn't really heavy but it spoilt the views. We stopped at Kingston again for coffee but a different bar. The weather forecast said there would be sun in Queenstown after 12 and sure enough as we arrived at 11.50 the clouds broke up and the sun came out and was out for the rest of the day.
We went to our hotel but as the room wasn't ready we left the case and set off to Arrowtown which is a really pretty, old mining town and they still have lots of the old buildings. We had a look around and then lunch in a little bar.
On the way back to Queenstown we passed by the ski fields and down to the Shotover River where we saw the hover boat which goes very fast and does 360 degree turns and looks really scary - not for me.
We then went onto Queenstown and the sky ride up the mountain to the luge. The gondola ride is very high much higher than the one in Rotura and I couldn't look back! When we got to the top we had a look around and took photos as the views are awesome. We then went to the chairlift to go on the luge. You go up higher and then come down on the luge which is the opposite way to Rotorua. They only have two tracks scenic and advanced and they are narrow and we didn't think as good as the one in Rotorua but it was fun. We watched a young man doing a bungy jump - they are so brave!
We went back to the hotel and checked in and booked a table for dinner had a cup of tea. We had a lovely view from our room. Then off we went again for a walk in the Queenstown Gardens which are lovely.
After a shower we were ready to go for dinner and we had a lovely table and the restaurant was quiet and we had a very nice meal. There was a lady at another table and Jon looked across at her and turned to me and said 'There is a woman over there who looks like Mary' I turned to look and spotted her straight away. It was amazing how like Mary she was and we couldn't believe it. i couldn't stop looking at her and I even took a photo and will ask Mary if she sees herself!
Friday
We were up early and had breakfast and were on the road by 8.00 for the two hour journey. We decided to drive there without stopping and do all the stops on the return. The weather was good when we left Te Anau but as we got higher it got colder with low cloud and rain and went down to 10 degrees. We reached the Homer Tunnel which was started in 1935 and finished in 1953. It is very dark and narrow and the traffic lights change every 15 minutes to let traffic through both ways. When we got through to the other end you couldn't see much because of the cloud which was a shame.
We finally arrived at Milford Sound in time to have coffee before we went on the boat. Jon had booked a small boat as some of them are really big with not much outside space. I can't put into words just how beautiful it all is. There was snow on the high mountains, the water was a beautiful blue as they had not had any rain for nine days and apparently rain makes the water muggy. There were fur seals and waterfalls and it was just gorgeous. We sailed out as far as the Tasman Sea, which was very calm and then back. We had a nice lunch on the boat and then he took the boat into the Stirling waterfall and we all got wet but it was good fun.
Our trip back to the hotel took hours as there are so many places to stop at. We saw waterfalls and rivers and snow and glaciers. We stopped outside the Homer tunnel and there is a part of a glacier that has slipped down and I stood on that - very weird standing in the snow in a T shirt!
We stopped at Gunn's camp which was a base for the families of the men who built the road and the tunnel back in the 1930s. Very basic cabins which you can now rent at about £20 a night for two people with firewood thrown in for the range! Not my idea of a holiday but many people go there. We had a look in the cabins and they are very basic. There is no electricity and the generator is turned off at 10.30. There is no phone and no cell phone signal. I have no idea what they do in an emergency!
We stopped at Mirror Lakes and the water is so clear and the mountains are reflected in the lake just like a mirror. We climbed up to see the Humboldt Falls which were pretty even in a drought.
We could have stopped at many more places but we just didn't have the time and by the time we got back to the hotel I could quite easily have gone to bed.
We had booked a table at a restaurant that was recommended in the Lonely Planet and looked nice. Our starter which was like a warm pork pate was very good but then we waited about 40 minutes for our main and it only came out when we asked how much longer. I had chosen elephant fish and Jon had venison. Jon's was cold and mine was very overcooked and very dry. I have never had a bad fish meal here but this was BAD. We told them we were not happy with it but we had waited so long we didn't want to wait for another 40 minutes so we told them not to bother. We had pudding which was filo tarts with stewed nectarines and plums with a Chantilly cream and it was really good - such a shame about the mains. We looked around the restaurant and there were many unhappy people sitting waiting for food so it wasn't only us. They knocked $3 off the bill!!!! Big deal. We certainly won't go there again when we go with Malcolm whenever he re books to come over.
We went back tot he hotel and fell into bed, very tired.
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
Off to Queenstown
We had a good journey to Auckland but it is getting to be very boring the amount of time we have done it.
We parked the car at the Air New Zealand parking and they said we could check the case in there, too and as we had checked in online we only had to drop our case at the bag drop which sounded easy.
We got to the airport and I put the case on the drop of conveyor and Jon went to tell Air New Zealand that Malcolm would not be flying but we would keep the seat as we had paid for it and they don't give refunds. They told him to go to ticketing which we did and she said no we couldn't keep the seat as 'it didn't work like that' After a long discussion with Jon getting very irate I told him to leave it and we would write a letter. I then asked the lady if the seats we now had were a window and a middle and when she checked she told us we weren't even checked in!!! So Jon showed her the boarding cards we had printed off and she told him they were no use we need proper ones but he said I use this method every time I fly with Air New Zealand. She then said our bag was not checked in either. Things were going from bad to worse! Then they said there was a reject bag which just happened to be ours so she rechecked us in and blocked the seat next to us so it could not be sold. So what went on at the car parking I have no idea. We should have taken a big teddy to the airport and told them it was called Malcolm!
Well after all that it was only another five minutes to boarding so I didn't get to have my glass of champagne!
The flight was really good and we flew right down the middle of the South Island and the views were amazing and we could see all the lakes and Mt Cook. Even though the flight was over lunchtime it was too short for a meal and we could choose from a bag of crisps, a biscuit or a packet of sweets and tea or coffee. We would need to eat when we got to Queenstown.
The landing although very beautiful was very steep, Queenstown being surrounded by mountains and also very bumpy and Jon's arm was very useful. The airport is very small but very beautiful and the first thing you see are the Remarkables which are the mountains to the west..
We collected our case and the lady was waiting for us with our car and once the paperwork was completed we were off. The drive to Te Anau was beautiful but we didn't find anywhere to eat for a long time. We stopped at Kingston at the bottom of the lake and found an old railway station turned into a cafe and it was very welcome and Jon had a burger and I had a BLT and it tasted so good. They have a steam train ride from here called the Kingston Flyer but it wasn't running today.
We carried on to Te Anau and I took lots and lots of photos. There are lots of sheep but not many people but it is all very pretty. We arrived at our hotel which was on Lake Te Anau and very pretty.
After a shower and five minutes rest we went out for dinner but after such a big and late lunch we weren't really hungry. We found a place in the main street and I had a lamb shank and Jon had a seafood salad and then we went back to the hotel as we had had a long day and needed to be up and on our way early tomorrow.
WEATHER
Overcast but looking good
We parked the car at the Air New Zealand parking and they said we could check the case in there, too and as we had checked in online we only had to drop our case at the bag drop which sounded easy.
We got to the airport and I put the case on the drop of conveyor and Jon went to tell Air New Zealand that Malcolm would not be flying but we would keep the seat as we had paid for it and they don't give refunds. They told him to go to ticketing which we did and she said no we couldn't keep the seat as 'it didn't work like that' After a long discussion with Jon getting very irate I told him to leave it and we would write a letter. I then asked the lady if the seats we now had were a window and a middle and when she checked she told us we weren't even checked in!!! So Jon showed her the boarding cards we had printed off and she told him they were no use we need proper ones but he said I use this method every time I fly with Air New Zealand. She then said our bag was not checked in either. Things were going from bad to worse! Then they said there was a reject bag which just happened to be ours so she rechecked us in and blocked the seat next to us so it could not be sold. So what went on at the car parking I have no idea. We should have taken a big teddy to the airport and told them it was called Malcolm!
Well after all that it was only another five minutes to boarding so I didn't get to have my glass of champagne!
The flight was really good and we flew right down the middle of the South Island and the views were amazing and we could see all the lakes and Mt Cook. Even though the flight was over lunchtime it was too short for a meal and we could choose from a bag of crisps, a biscuit or a packet of sweets and tea or coffee. We would need to eat when we got to Queenstown.
The landing although very beautiful was very steep, Queenstown being surrounded by mountains and also very bumpy and Jon's arm was very useful. The airport is very small but very beautiful and the first thing you see are the Remarkables which are the mountains to the west..
We collected our case and the lady was waiting for us with our car and once the paperwork was completed we were off. The drive to Te Anau was beautiful but we didn't find anywhere to eat for a long time. We stopped at Kingston at the bottom of the lake and found an old railway station turned into a cafe and it was very welcome and Jon had a burger and I had a BLT and it tasted so good. They have a steam train ride from here called the Kingston Flyer but it wasn't running today.
We carried on to Te Anau and I took lots and lots of photos. There are lots of sheep but not many people but it is all very pretty. We arrived at our hotel which was on Lake Te Anau and very pretty.
After a shower and five minutes rest we went out for dinner but after such a big and late lunch we weren't really hungry. We found a place in the main street and I had a lamb shank and Jon had a seafood salad and then we went back to the hotel as we had had a long day and needed to be up and on our way early tomorrow.
WEATHER
Overcast but looking good
Back to Aquacise
It was hot this morning when I took Totty out and as I was going to my class it was early so the day will only get hotter.
Les wasn't at the class this morning and Carol said she had not been well so I will need to give her a call.
The class was very good, we had the Brazilian teacher and he makes you work hard but is very nice! It is amazing how you can get so hot even when you are in the water. I didn't stay after the class as I needed to get showered and then go to Specsavers for some contact lens solution and I also had to go to the post office and as my hair appointment was for 11.00 I had to rush.
I got all my bits done and had a takeaway coffee on the hoof and made my appointment on time. My hairdresser is starting a university course full time over in Hamilton and so from now on can only do hair on Saturdays when he is back for the weekend. I hope it all works out for him and he manages all the travelling, it is a big step to go to uni as a mature student.
When I got back Heather called and we had another chat until I had to make Jon's lunch. I hope her dentist appointment goes well. She is going to ring me when she gets back.
I finished my washing and ironing and only have one skirt to iron. I hate going away and leaving ironing it just adds to the pile when you get back!
I took Totty out early as I wanted to go down to the Mount to see the cruise ships leaving. There were two in this morning and one of them was the Diamond Princess we saw in Sydney and she has been to Melbourne, Milford Sound, Denedin and Christchurch before coming here and she was leaving for Auckland. All in all it was a 29 day cruise starting in Thailand and costs about £3000 and that is in a top of the range cabin with balcony. I don't think it is for me thought!
There were lots of people at the Mount and it was hard to get a parking place. I got there in time to see the small one go out first and then the big one and I was really glad I did. They are so big to come into our little port and then to see them sail past the Mount is really beautiful.
Back home and I cooked dinner and then packed the case ready to go off to Queenstown tomorrow. The weather has been lovely in the south but is set to change so we may have a wet Milford Sound, not to worry.
Been having a lot of trouble with Facebook as they have changed the page and the way you upload photos and it is not working for me!!!! Farmville is being difficult, too and I have lots of gifts that I can't get at!!!!! Oh well it is only a game.
I am now sitting waiting for Heather to call and Jon has gone to bed but Totty won't go till I go, funny little dog. I hope she calls soon or I will fall asleep!
WEATHER
Really hot and sunny all day.
Les wasn't at the class this morning and Carol said she had not been well so I will need to give her a call.
The class was very good, we had the Brazilian teacher and he makes you work hard but is very nice! It is amazing how you can get so hot even when you are in the water. I didn't stay after the class as I needed to get showered and then go to Specsavers for some contact lens solution and I also had to go to the post office and as my hair appointment was for 11.00 I had to rush.
I got all my bits done and had a takeaway coffee on the hoof and made my appointment on time. My hairdresser is starting a university course full time over in Hamilton and so from now on can only do hair on Saturdays when he is back for the weekend. I hope it all works out for him and he manages all the travelling, it is a big step to go to uni as a mature student.
When I got back Heather called and we had another chat until I had to make Jon's lunch. I hope her dentist appointment goes well. She is going to ring me when she gets back.
I finished my washing and ironing and only have one skirt to iron. I hate going away and leaving ironing it just adds to the pile when you get back!
I took Totty out early as I wanted to go down to the Mount to see the cruise ships leaving. There were two in this morning and one of them was the Diamond Princess we saw in Sydney and she has been to Melbourne, Milford Sound, Denedin and Christchurch before coming here and she was leaving for Auckland. All in all it was a 29 day cruise starting in Thailand and costs about £3000 and that is in a top of the range cabin with balcony. I don't think it is for me thought!
There were lots of people at the Mount and it was hard to get a parking place. I got there in time to see the small one go out first and then the big one and I was really glad I did. They are so big to come into our little port and then to see them sail past the Mount is really beautiful.
Back home and I cooked dinner and then packed the case ready to go off to Queenstown tomorrow. The weather has been lovely in the south but is set to change so we may have a wet Milford Sound, not to worry.
Been having a lot of trouble with Facebook as they have changed the page and the way you upload photos and it is not working for me!!!! Farmville is being difficult, too and I have lots of gifts that I can't get at!!!!! Oh well it is only a game.
I am now sitting waiting for Heather to call and Jon has gone to bed but Totty won't go till I go, funny little dog. I hope she calls soon or I will fall asleep!
WEATHER
Really hot and sunny all day.
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
Back to keep fit
I was not looking forward to going back to keep fit today as it was very hot and humid and after such a long break it was going to be hard work. I wasn't wrong, even with all the doors and windows open we were really warm. The teacher took pity on us and we did a lot of work on the mat which helped but it was good to get back into it.
I then went to the supermarket to get a few bits and got home to find Heather had phoned and left a message to say if I wanted a chat to email her when I got back so I did and we had a nice chat. She is still very worried about having her tooth out.
I made lunch and Jon came home and then I spent a lot of time on the computer and Farmville - I should say waste of time really!
I dragged myself away from the computer and cleaned the bathrooms and then tackled a bit more of the pile of ironing!
I took Totty out for a walk early as I had my Lions meeting tonight and then had a quick dinner before having another shower as I was so hot.
Went to pick Janet up and she was late as her dog had just jumped up and eaten the steak of her husbands plate. He had been sitting in the conservatory on a chair and not at the table and had put his plate on the chair when the phone rang and their little puppy, who is just gorgeous, jumped up and finished it off! They tried to get it away from him but couldn't. I should think he will sleep for the rest of the night!
The business meeting was very long as we haven't had one since November so there was a lot to discuss. I drove tonight but it was only Jean and Janice as Helen is not well. It finished at 9.15 and I was home just after 9.30 so not too bad.
WEATHER
Really hot this morning and sunny, clouded over in the afternoon and then the sun came out and it was really hot again this evening and still 25 degrees at 6.00
I then went to the supermarket to get a few bits and got home to find Heather had phoned and left a message to say if I wanted a chat to email her when I got back so I did and we had a nice chat. She is still very worried about having her tooth out.
I made lunch and Jon came home and then I spent a lot of time on the computer and Farmville - I should say waste of time really!
I dragged myself away from the computer and cleaned the bathrooms and then tackled a bit more of the pile of ironing!
I took Totty out for a walk early as I had my Lions meeting tonight and then had a quick dinner before having another shower as I was so hot.
Went to pick Janet up and she was late as her dog had just jumped up and eaten the steak of her husbands plate. He had been sitting in the conservatory on a chair and not at the table and had put his plate on the chair when the phone rang and their little puppy, who is just gorgeous, jumped up and finished it off! They tried to get it away from him but couldn't. I should think he will sleep for the rest of the night!
The business meeting was very long as we haven't had one since November so there was a lot to discuss. I drove tonight but it was only Jean and Janice as Helen is not well. It finished at 9.15 and I was home just after 9.30 so not too bad.
WEATHER
Really hot this morning and sunny, clouded over in the afternoon and then the sun came out and it was really hot again this evening and still 25 degrees at 6.00
Monday, 8 February 2010
A normal day
Managed to get the sheets in the machine and washed and out before taking Totty to the vet for her kennel cough booster at 9.30. The vet wanted her to have all her jabs so that they are all done at the same time. I explained to him that if we did that she would be due in Feb next year when we will be in the UK and as they were all brought forward last year to get them all in line I decided it was not a good idea so she just had kennel cough which the kennels are asking for even though it isn't due. They seem to have a big problem with kennel cough here in the summer so best to be safe than sorry and she does spend a lot of time in there, poor thing. Still after this next rip on Thursday she won't be back there till Easter.
When I got back Kirsty rang me for a chat. I told her it should be her New Year's resolution to keep in touch with me a bit more and so far it is working! I was also chatting to Heather on MSN at the same time. She is having her wisdom tooth out on Wednesday and is really worried about it and would very much like me to be with her! I keep telling her it is not as bad as it sounds, I hope she will be OK.
I heard a big bang when I was on the PC and Totty jumped up and ran out to the deck and when I looked over towards the bypass the traffic was slowing down so I assumed there had been an accident. I then heard police cars so I phoned Jon to say he might be better staying in the office for lunch but then after 20 minutes the traffic started to move and I called him back to say it was OK. He said when he passed there was a car in a ditch by the bridge but he couldn't see any other vehicle so don't know what happened.
After lunch I did my ironing and caught up with Neighbours I am now up to date at last!
I called Janice to ask if she would be going to Lions tomorrow and arranged to pick her up, it seems like a long time since I went to a meeting. She was telling me about the kennels she takes her dog to and said it is where the vet takes his so I suppose that is a good recommendation. I think I will go up and have a look and see what I think and maybe give them a try next time we need to.
We had some nice fish for dinner tonight. I have never bough it before and it was more of a pink colour like fresh tuna and I will certainly buy it again.
WEATHER
Very hot and slightly humid this morning getting hotter during the day, clouded over in the afternoon but still very hot.
When I got back Kirsty rang me for a chat. I told her it should be her New Year's resolution to keep in touch with me a bit more and so far it is working! I was also chatting to Heather on MSN at the same time. She is having her wisdom tooth out on Wednesday and is really worried about it and would very much like me to be with her! I keep telling her it is not as bad as it sounds, I hope she will be OK.
I heard a big bang when I was on the PC and Totty jumped up and ran out to the deck and when I looked over towards the bypass the traffic was slowing down so I assumed there had been an accident. I then heard police cars so I phoned Jon to say he might be better staying in the office for lunch but then after 20 minutes the traffic started to move and I called him back to say it was OK. He said when he passed there was a car in a ditch by the bridge but he couldn't see any other vehicle so don't know what happened.
After lunch I did my ironing and caught up with Neighbours I am now up to date at last!
I called Janice to ask if she would be going to Lions tomorrow and arranged to pick her up, it seems like a long time since I went to a meeting. She was telling me about the kennels she takes her dog to and said it is where the vet takes his so I suppose that is a good recommendation. I think I will go up and have a look and see what I think and maybe give them a try next time we need to.
We had some nice fish for dinner tonight. I have never bough it before and it was more of a pink colour like fresh tuna and I will certainly buy it again.
WEATHER
Very hot and slightly humid this morning getting hotter during the day, clouded over in the afternoon but still very hot.
Sunday, 7 February 2010
Sunday 2nd day at the air show
It was up and out for a quick walk with Totty as the air show was due to start promptly at 10.00 and there would be more traffic today.
When we got there it was busier but not as bad as trying to get into Duxford. Jon was waiting in the coffee line when it started and the opening was very good with a battle and fireworks as pretend guns all very good.
We found a place for our chairs and it was really hot and very busy with people putting up gazebos and sunshades and marking their pitch and we drank our coffee. Jon saw Grant in the hospitality tent and went to ask him if he had room for two little ones and he said of course so we put our chairs away and went to sit in comfort. There were drinks and nibbles and cheese and biscuits and fruit during the morning - I declined a glass of wine at 11.00! But I was asked so many times that by 12.00 I gave in. Lunch arrived at 1.00 and it was excellent with lots of finger food and sandwiches and lovely pizza squares. Off and on through he day people came and went with their children and we had a really good view of everything and it was a lovely day. It ended with a race with an Audio car, don't know the model but it was very fast, and a jet racing along the runway.
As the show took place at the airport there where flight coming in, about three coming in and then departing so the show stopped for that. it must have been very strange for the flights coming in to such a huge welcome!
When we got home we were very tired and fortunately I had taken spaghetti sauce out of the freezer so just had to cook the spaghetti and make a salad for dinner.
We should have been in Rotorua this weekend with Malcolm and in hindsight it was probably not such a good idea to have him arrive as Jane left as we would have been shattered. So hopefully when he gets better and re books we will be able to show him around calmly and not be worn out.
WEATHER
Hot!
When we got there it was busier but not as bad as trying to get into Duxford. Jon was waiting in the coffee line when it started and the opening was very good with a battle and fireworks as pretend guns all very good.
We found a place for our chairs and it was really hot and very busy with people putting up gazebos and sunshades and marking their pitch and we drank our coffee. Jon saw Grant in the hospitality tent and went to ask him if he had room for two little ones and he said of course so we put our chairs away and went to sit in comfort. There were drinks and nibbles and cheese and biscuits and fruit during the morning - I declined a glass of wine at 11.00! But I was asked so many times that by 12.00 I gave in. Lunch arrived at 1.00 and it was excellent with lots of finger food and sandwiches and lovely pizza squares. Off and on through he day people came and went with their children and we had a really good view of everything and it was a lovely day. It ended with a race with an Audio car, don't know the model but it was very fast, and a jet racing along the runway.
As the show took place at the airport there where flight coming in, about three coming in and then departing so the show stopped for that. it must have been very strange for the flights coming in to such a huge welcome!
When we got home we were very tired and fortunately I had taken spaghetti sauce out of the freezer so just had to cook the spaghetti and make a salad for dinner.
We should have been in Rotorua this weekend with Malcolm and in hindsight it was probably not such a good idea to have him arrive as Jane left as we would have been shattered. So hopefully when he gets better and re books we will be able to show him around calmly and not be worn out.
WEATHER
Hot!
Saturday, 6 February 2010
Waitangi Day and Air Show
After an early walk with Totty we set off for the air show. We had bought tickets online and it was $25 each for the two days which we thought was really good. It was much better organised than the one we went to with Heather last June and with very little traffic we were in and parked, I am sure it won't be like this on Sunday which is the main show - today is like a rehearsal.
We had our fold out chairs with us and got a coffee and sat and watched the goings on. After our coffee we had a walk around the site and saw some lovely old cars that had been very well restored and were immaculate. We also had a good look around some camper vans and were very impressed with one, it even had AC and so much room. However Jon is not convinced he would like to drive on around the roads over here and I don't think we would get the use out of it, you need to be retired to have one or go on a six week trip or something so maybe one day we might just hire one and do a road trip round the South Island. We then got a good spot near the fence at the front and were able to watch everything.
At lunchtime we went to a venison burger van we had seen earlier and had a really good burger with salads, very moist and much nicer than beef. It was then back to the flying and some of the displays were amazing, how people can fly upside down like that is beyond me!
There was a hospitality tent for the Port of Tauranga there and Jon knew the man who was manning it and so late in the afternoon he went to say hello and came back to say we had been invited in for a drink so off we went and the very cold glass of wine was very welcome! Grant is from Scotland but has been here for 33 years and is married to a Kiwi. He was very chatty and we got on well and it was a good end to the day.
We went home and had a cup of tea before taking Totty out. We had a bbq for dinner and sat outside as it was so warm.
WEATHER
Really hot and sunny all day.
We had our fold out chairs with us and got a coffee and sat and watched the goings on. After our coffee we had a walk around the site and saw some lovely old cars that had been very well restored and were immaculate. We also had a good look around some camper vans and were very impressed with one, it even had AC and so much room. However Jon is not convinced he would like to drive on around the roads over here and I don't think we would get the use out of it, you need to be retired to have one or go on a six week trip or something so maybe one day we might just hire one and do a road trip round the South Island. We then got a good spot near the fence at the front and were able to watch everything.
At lunchtime we went to a venison burger van we had seen earlier and had a really good burger with salads, very moist and much nicer than beef. It was then back to the flying and some of the displays were amazing, how people can fly upside down like that is beyond me!
There was a hospitality tent for the Port of Tauranga there and Jon knew the man who was manning it and so late in the afternoon he went to say hello and came back to say we had been invited in for a drink so off we went and the very cold glass of wine was very welcome! Grant is from Scotland but has been here for 33 years and is married to a Kiwi. He was very chatty and we got on well and it was a good end to the day.
We went home and had a cup of tea before taking Totty out. We had a bbq for dinner and sat outside as it was so warm.
WEATHER
Really hot and sunny all day.
Friday, 5 February 2010
Jane goes home Thursday and Friday
We took Totty to kennels and they had to carry her in again, I am not sure if it is this kennels she doesn't like or if it would be the same with all of them.
We had a good drive to Auckland stopping on the way in Matamata for Jane to have her photo taken at the Hobbiton sign.
We went straight to the Sky Tower and up to the top which she really liked but it was hard to get a good photo as the light was too bright outside and not good enough inside. We also saw one of the jumpers go down. They stop them outside the viewing area in case they have friends who want to take a photo and this guy was actually smiling and laughing ugh! It takes 11 seconds to drop to the bottom!
We then went to Auckland zoo and were disappointed with it as it is very run down. They lost their old elephant a few months ago and now only have one who is pining for the other one and it is very sad to see. They are having trouble getting one into the country and you would have thought they would have had it sorted long before the other one died as she was very old. It was really hot walking round and by 4.00 we had had enough. We did manage to see a very active Kiwi, all the otters we have seen have not done very much. AC DC were playing in Auckland and they were doing a sound test and as the park they were playing at is right next to the zoo the noise was amazing so I don't think the animals will get muc sleep tonight!
We then drove, through all the AC DC heavy traffic, to the Holiday Inn near the airport and checked in and Jane had a shower and got ready and we had a cup of tea and a sit down.
We set off for the airport at 7.30 and checked Jane in she was two and a half kilos over but they said that was OK. We had checked her in online a few days ago and so she was able to choose her seat and managed to get an isle seat at the back in the middle so hopefully she should have more room going back.
We went up to the restaurant for dinner and she had a huge burger and we sat there till about 10.00, her flight was due to leave at 11.45. It is very hard sitting waiting in airports and I hate it. I don't want them to go but on the other hand I want to get it over with. We were both tearful when she went through but it was not as bad as when Heather left. I think because I am more settled and also she had not been here so long.
We drove back to the hotel and went to have a drink in the bar before going to bed.
FRIDAY
We got up and ready and set off with the intention of having breakfast at the service area where we have stopped on other trips. Jon ordered cooked breakfast and I ordered a bowl of fresh fruit. They were very busy with all the AC DC fans on their way home (I know they were fans as they were all wearing AC DC T shirts). We waited a long time and then the bowl of fruit was awful. I think they must have had all the fruit cut up and sitting in water as it didn't taste of anything and there was lots of water in the bowl so much so I had to pour it off. Jon's breakfast was OK but not up to the usual standard, so they don't cope with 'busy'.
We thought we would try a different route back, we are getting pretty bored with this drive, and so we went via Morinsville but due to road works were sent on a detour along a dirt track, great fun. It made the journey quicker and we came out near Matamata which is about 40 minutes from here, we also managed to by pass a jack knifed lorry on the main road which was closed so it was good we decided to try a different route.
We unpacked and had lunch and Jon went to work as he had meetings. I went to get Totty at 4.00 and she was very pleased to see me.
I managed to get my washing done and as the weather was so warm all dried, too.
Jon went out for fish and chips and after all our trips recently that is the only way we know which day it is!
WEATHER
Thursday was overcast then very warm. Friday was really hot all day and only got down to 19 overnight.
We had a good drive to Auckland stopping on the way in Matamata for Jane to have her photo taken at the Hobbiton sign.
We went straight to the Sky Tower and up to the top which she really liked but it was hard to get a good photo as the light was too bright outside and not good enough inside. We also saw one of the jumpers go down. They stop them outside the viewing area in case they have friends who want to take a photo and this guy was actually smiling and laughing ugh! It takes 11 seconds to drop to the bottom!
We then went to Auckland zoo and were disappointed with it as it is very run down. They lost their old elephant a few months ago and now only have one who is pining for the other one and it is very sad to see. They are having trouble getting one into the country and you would have thought they would have had it sorted long before the other one died as she was very old. It was really hot walking round and by 4.00 we had had enough. We did manage to see a very active Kiwi, all the otters we have seen have not done very much. AC DC were playing in Auckland and they were doing a sound test and as the park they were playing at is right next to the zoo the noise was amazing so I don't think the animals will get muc sleep tonight!
We then drove, through all the AC DC heavy traffic, to the Holiday Inn near the airport and checked in and Jane had a shower and got ready and we had a cup of tea and a sit down.
We set off for the airport at 7.30 and checked Jane in she was two and a half kilos over but they said that was OK. We had checked her in online a few days ago and so she was able to choose her seat and managed to get an isle seat at the back in the middle so hopefully she should have more room going back.
We went up to the restaurant for dinner and she had a huge burger and we sat there till about 10.00, her flight was due to leave at 11.45. It is very hard sitting waiting in airports and I hate it. I don't want them to go but on the other hand I want to get it over with. We were both tearful when she went through but it was not as bad as when Heather left. I think because I am more settled and also she had not been here so long.
We drove back to the hotel and went to have a drink in the bar before going to bed.
FRIDAY
We got up and ready and set off with the intention of having breakfast at the service area where we have stopped on other trips. Jon ordered cooked breakfast and I ordered a bowl of fresh fruit. They were very busy with all the AC DC fans on their way home (I know they were fans as they were all wearing AC DC T shirts). We waited a long time and then the bowl of fruit was awful. I think they must have had all the fruit cut up and sitting in water as it didn't taste of anything and there was lots of water in the bowl so much so I had to pour it off. Jon's breakfast was OK but not up to the usual standard, so they don't cope with 'busy'.
We thought we would try a different route back, we are getting pretty bored with this drive, and so we went via Morinsville but due to road works were sent on a detour along a dirt track, great fun. It made the journey quicker and we came out near Matamata which is about 40 minutes from here, we also managed to by pass a jack knifed lorry on the main road which was closed so it was good we decided to try a different route.
We unpacked and had lunch and Jon went to work as he had meetings. I went to get Totty at 4.00 and she was very pleased to see me.
I managed to get my washing done and as the weather was so warm all dried, too.
Jon went out for fish and chips and after all our trips recently that is the only way we know which day it is!
WEATHER
Thursday was overcast then very warm. Friday was really hot all day and only got down to 19 overnight.
Wednesday, 3 February 2010
A nice sunny day for Jane
The weather was really lovely this morning so we were up and I took Totty out before going down to Tay Street beach. After coffee in the cafe we went over to the beach and as the tide was in thee wasn't much room but we found a good spot and settled down for a day in the sun. It was really lovely with just enough breeze to keep us cool.
We went over to the cafe for lunch and had eggs Benedict, mine with smoked salmon and Jane's with ham and it was very good. Then back to the beach.
At four o'clock we had had enough so packed up and went home for a shower. We took Totty out and then Jon cooked a bbq and we sat on the deck and had a lovely meal.
Jane went down to pack and we managed to fit everything in so hopefully not a lot to do in the morning as we have an early start.
WEATHER
Lovely sunshine all day this is what we want in the summer!
We went over to the cafe for lunch and had eggs Benedict, mine with smoked salmon and Jane's with ham and it was very good. Then back to the beach.
At four o'clock we had had enough so packed up and went home for a shower. We took Totty out and then Jon cooked a bbq and we sat on the deck and had a lovely meal.
Jane went down to pack and we managed to fit everything in so hopefully not a lot to do in the morning as we have an early start.
WEATHER
Lovely sunshine all day this is what we want in the summer!
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
Tuesday and we have a lot to do
After taking Totty out Jane and I went into Tauranga shopping for souvenirs for her to take back. We then went for a drink and sat in the sun outside a cafe. We had a quick walk around the town and then drove to Maketu and Kiwi 360 via the harbour bridge which she had not been over.
We went down to Maketu for lunch and bought one of the famous pies and went to sit by the beach to eat it. We then had an ice cream for pudding before going up to Kiwi 360 to buy the Kiwi berry cuddly toy she had seen when we first went there.
When we got back it was really hot so Jane sat on the deck in the sun while I did a bit of housework.
When Jon came home we drove down to the Mount so that we could walk up it. Although it was evening it was really warm and Jane struggled with the walk and wanted to turn back but we convinced her to carry on and when she got to the top she was glad she had.
There were some hang gliders there just running off the top, it looked like fun but it is not something I would like to try. They were flying around at the top and having a great time. We got back down and as I had left chicken in the oven thought we better get home and have a well earned beer there in case the chicken was burnt. Just as well we did as it was ready and another half hour we would have had burnt dinner!
WEATHER
Very wet to start but sun came out and was hot, by the evening it was really hot.
We went down to Maketu for lunch and bought one of the famous pies and went to sit by the beach to eat it. We then had an ice cream for pudding before going up to Kiwi 360 to buy the Kiwi berry cuddly toy she had seen when we first went there.
When we got back it was really hot so Jane sat on the deck in the sun while I did a bit of housework.
When Jon came home we drove down to the Mount so that we could walk up it. Although it was evening it was really warm and Jane struggled with the walk and wanted to turn back but we convinced her to carry on and when she got to the top she was glad she had.
There were some hang gliders there just running off the top, it looked like fun but it is not something I would like to try. They were flying around at the top and having a great time. We got back down and as I had left chicken in the oven thought we better get home and have a well earned beer there in case the chicken was burnt. Just as well we did as it was ready and another half hour we would have had burnt dinner!
WEATHER
Very wet to start but sun came out and was hot, by the evening it was really hot.
Monday, 1 February 2010
Bank Holiday Monday in Bay of Plenty
We woke up to cloud but it was not as bad as yesterday which, according to the news left lots of rivers flooded and people cut off and lots of slips on the main roads. That said where they really need the rain in the north they only had a few showers.
We went up to the Kaimai Cafe for breakfast and Jon had the mega breakfast and I really don't know how he managed to eat it all but he did. Jane and I were sensible and went for the smaller option and it was all very good.
After that we went up to McLaren Falls and they were really flowing. We tried to convince Jane that seeing it like this was good as usually it is not much more than a trickle at this time of the year - she was not convinced or impressed!
We then had a drive through the park which was very pretty.
Back for a late lunch and then we took Totty down to Papamoa beach for a walk and it turned out really nice with a bit of sunshine breaking through.
Back home for the evening and we had a very nice leg of lamb for dinner and because it was not too hot we didn't all bake when the oven was on!
WEATHER
Rain in the morning clearing later to sun.
We went up to the Kaimai Cafe for breakfast and Jon had the mega breakfast and I really don't know how he managed to eat it all but he did. Jane and I were sensible and went for the smaller option and it was all very good.
After that we went up to McLaren Falls and they were really flowing. We tried to convince Jane that seeing it like this was good as usually it is not much more than a trickle at this time of the year - she was not convinced or impressed!
We then had a drive through the park which was very pretty.
Back for a late lunch and then we took Totty down to Papamoa beach for a walk and it turned out really nice with a bit of sunshine breaking through.
Back home for the evening and we had a very nice leg of lamb for dinner and because it was not too hot we didn't all bake when the oven was on!
WEATHER
Rain in the morning clearing later to sun.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)