Monday

Mostly packing and cleaning up for Heather and trying to get her room cleared which we finally did.

The estate agent came and valued the house pretty much as it was two years ago. He also said we could get a good amount if we decide to rent it but that will have to be after the girls move out.

The plumber came to give us a quote for a new cloakroom suit and a new bath and shower.

I went up to visit Anne Spurr in the afternoon and we had a nice chat.

We went out to the Indian for dinner with the Quigleys, Radfords and Washs and had a really nice meal. It was very cold when we came out and we were very grateful for the lift home from Roger and Mary.

WEATHER

Dull and cold

Sunday - meet Jane's in laws

A good night's sleep but far too much to drink and eat last night!

We went off to Quy Mill to meet Jason's mum and dad. While we were waiting for them to arrive we had a look around the mill as a potential wedding venue. However, after looking at the prices I think it is very expensive.

Jason's parents arrived and we ordered a very nice lunch and had a pleasant afternoon with them. It was a little difficult as we had never met before and finding something in common was a bit difficult but they are very nice people and should be proud of having such a lovely son.

When we got back we didn't have much to do as we were going out for dinner.

It was lovely to see that James and Kirsty had sorted the conservatory out and put the rabbits back outside and all the house looked ready for the estate agent to come tomorrow.

In the evening we all had a glass of champagne, courtesy of Malcolm, before going off in taxis to the Fountain for dinner. We had a a really good, fun night with so much laughing that the people on the other tables said they would like to join us! So it was a late night with far too much to drink.


WEATHER
Dull and cold

Saturday

SATURDAY

Jon spoke to James and told him we were having the house valued and asked if they could clean the conservatory.

Lots of people to use the shower this morning so a bit of a wait.

We went to Chippenham Park to see the snowdrops, really pretty but very cold.

Then to the Golden Boar Frekenham for a ploughman's, a beer and a sit by the fire lovely

Back to the house and did some drying, Jon went into the garden and did some clearing.

Jane and Jason went to see a house today, very happy.

It was chaos getting ready to go out as there were so many of Heather's friends round to get ready but we finally managed.

Roger and Mary picked us up and we went across to the pub in Cambridge. Really good night and a very good turnout of friends to her party. The meal was good apart from Roger not getting his as they had missed it off the list so he was left eating his when everyone had finished.

She got some lovely presents and really enjoyed her night.

We got home about midnight and it was very cold.

WEATHER
Very cold and dull.

We, Thurs, Fri

Friday
We spent the morning clearing the loft. Cats both managed to get up into the loft much to Jon's horror.

Cleared the small bedroom so Heather's friends can sleep there.

Did more cleaning so at least I feel the house is not too bad now

Heather's friends did say to her that the house looked clean and shiny so young people do notice.

Phoned the estate agent to come on Monday for a valuation.

Jon and I went to the Rosary Hotel for lunch and had a Newmarket sausage baguette, very nice

Bought Jon some shoes as he wants to get out into the garden and do some much needed work which he did when we got back and I did yet more cleaning.

Went out to Jane's for dinner.'Lovely night with her and Jason. Persuaded them to go and look at some houses and told them we would help with the deposit, they are very happy. Their house is nice and clean and the rabbits are outside.

Minus 5 when we came home but at least we had the car tonight and didn't need to walk.


Thursday
Jon went to meet David Cross in Ipswich

I helped Heather clear some things what a big job and she is slow and it looks worse than ever in her room

I went to meet Sonia for lunch and popped in and saw a few more people

Nice lunch. She gave me a lovely Bon Voyage charm with an enamel flip flop on it

I hit M&S and bought a lot of nice things.

After a quick walk around town I walked home which was nice as I could have good look around.

More tidying and then Kirsty took us over to Roger and Mary for dinner.

Lovely night and lovely dinner.

Left and walked home at midnight, very cold and very stiff by the time we got back. We should have called a taxi.



Wednesday
Saw Eve and Stan over at Mary's. They are so sweet. Eve is a little wriggle and Stan is a very sturdy little boy.

Jon came back to pick me up and we had lunch with Roger and Mary which was very nice.

We then went off to Haverhill to see Derek, Elaine and Baby Rebecca who is so sweet and so good and just sat in her chair. I had a cuddle and then she started to rub her face so Elaine put her back in her chair and the next time I looked she was fast asleep.

We then went into Cambridge to change our Tripp suitcase. We bought them about five years ago and they have a lifetime guarantee. The lady asked for the recipe and I told her I did not have it so she said she couldn't give me a new one as she didn't know what we had paid. I said I didn't mind which one we had as long as we got one. she picked one out and it was fine so out we walked with a new case. They now only give five years guarantee so we must put it safe somewhere.

We went out to dinner with Rob and Bina and had a really lovely evening at the Thai restaurant and then went back to their house for coffee and to see 'Dave' our plant they are fostering!!! He looks very well.

As it is only down the road to our house we walked back but it was a very cold walk home.


WEATHER
Generally dull and cold especially at night

Tuesday - Newmarket

Not a bad night's sleep but not good either!

I was feeling very full so didn't have the full breakfast this morning.

We set off at 10.00 and had a good journey but it is a long way.

We stopped north of Bristol for lunch. The services had an M&S so we bought dinner at the same time as we will be in on our own tonight

We arrived home 4.00 and nobody was home!!!

I caught up with the washing and tidying and Jon cooked dinner (well a M&S meal).

Heather went out again and still no sign of packing.

Jason came round to give us the name and number of the plumber and he looked so tired. He had been working on Kathryn's car and it was quite late.

K & J out with his mum for her birthday and came back for coffee and chat

WEATHER
Dry to start rain showers on journey then dry 6 degrees

Monday - Cornwall

We woke this morning to a beautiful sunrise which we could see from our room.

After a lovely English breakfast, which I really didn't need but had paid for, we decided to give the Eden Project a miss and head to Mevagissey.

Unfortunately,Mevagissey is closed on Mondays!!! We had paid to park in the main car park rather than try and drive down the very narrow streets. The ticket machine had a notice on saying 'if £2 coin is rejected jump up and down on the concrete and try again'. Only in Cornwall!!! We hadn't needed to use a £2 coin but we did have to pay £3 to park which is ridiculous as the car park was empty. Maybe they should have special rates for winter.

After a lovely walk around the harbour we managed to find the only place open and had a coffee.

We then put Fowey into the sat nav and drove a lovely cross country route to another hugely expensive pay and display car park which was a long way from the town but once again we didn't want to go down the narrow streets so rather than pay the £3 for the bus we walked and were glad we did as it is really lovely. We went down to the river and looked across at Polruan and then around the town and into the very pretty church. We bought a pasty for lunch and then after climbing the very steep hill got back to the car.

We drove to Moneylender Beach which is just so pretty and we sat and had lunch - pasty and a bottle of water. My sister in law later told me that the house we had admired belonged to Dawn
French. It is really beautiful and has some amazing views.

It was then time to head back to St Austell and visit Julie. It was lovely to see Baby Bella, who is like a little doll and very like her daddy, Jon's nephew, Michael. Her mum Davina was there, too and told us they are trying for another baby so that will be even more babies in the UK. Louise, Julie's daughter was also there with Erin who is so sweet and very like her mummy. So we had a really baby afternoon.

We left in time to get back to the hotel for a cream tea. You cannot come to Cornwall and not have a cream tea. It really lived up to expectations but we did only have one scone between us.

We just had time to go up to the room and have a rest before dinner!!! If I can fit it in! lol

Dinner was very nice and it was lovely to see all Jon's family. WE had a good night and everyone was very jolly. Jon's sister told us they are thinking of coming down here for a holiday which will be nice. It was a very late night!


WEATHER

Beautiful sunrise. Cold but sunny. 6 degrees

Sunday

Not a bad night's sleep but still woke a few times.

Breakfast very nice, cooked fresh and far too much.

Left Southport at about 10.00 after going down to have a look at the beach and take a photo.


Good journey down, not much traffic.

Stopped at Bristol and bought sandwiches at Waitrose services and fruit.

Arrived at Charlestown at about 4.00. Lovely room with two windows overlooking the harbour. A quick walk then looked ffor cream tea but all closed so bought some cake and took it back to the room with a cuppa sitting on the window seat lovely.

Rashleigh Arms for a lovely dinner mussels, steak and cheesecake.

Back to the room for coffee and hoepfully a good nights sleep.



WEATHER
Nice day dry and cold, better in Cornwall.

Saturday

It was a very foggy start to the day and we didn't really sleep that well. We left Joyce's and headed off to Southport to see Barbara and family.

We checked into the hotel and the room was styled like a castle and very funny but with a lovely four poster bed.

I wasn't sure what time Barb was expecting us so we went into Southport and had lunch - soup for me and fish and chips for Jon and we found it very expensive. When we got to Barb's she told me she had been expecting us for lunch!!!! I am sure it would have been much nicer than what we had.

Nat and Neil were there with the girls who are so sweet even though Erin did have a paddy when she had to go home and embarrassed her mum and dad! lol We also met Sara and Claire, both very nice girls and very friendly.

We went back to the hotel and had a half hour rest before going out for dinner with Barb and Roz. We went for Chinese, a place Roz chose but had not been to before. It had a plaque to say it had been voted best Chinese in Southport for 2010 and it was OK but the emphasis was more on quantity than quality so it was just as well the company was good though I think Jon was a bit bored for some of the evening - three women chatting about old times - need I say more.

Barb and Roz shared a taxi home and we walked as it was just around the corner but it was very cold!

Tuesday, Wenesday, Thursday and Friday

Tuesday

Still didn't sleep, neither did Jon and we were both up through the night to go to the loo.

Jon and I took Jane to the Bedford Lodge for lunch which was very nice. The debit card machine would not accept our cards so Jon had to pay with cash and then we had to go home to call the bank to ask why they had stopped them. They told us there was no stop on them and they should be fine so Jon went over to see people at his old office and I went shopping with Jane and to try out the card. Fortunately, for me it worked and we had a happy afternoon in the shops.

I met Elaine Carr in M&S and amongst other things she said I looked younger than when I left!

I went to meet Sonia at the Rutland and we had a chat before meeting the rest of the girls from the Rookery for dinner at the new Thai restaurant. We had a lovely night and it was so nice to see them all.

Wednesday
Heather took me down to the Rookery and I went in to see the doctors and the other girls and had a lovely time but I am glad I am not working there now. They have had lots of changes and it all sounds quite stressful. I then did more shopping before going home for lunch.

Penny picked me up to take me across to Janet's to meet with all the Tangent ladies and we all had a lovely time with lots of chatting and catching up.

Jon went out for an Indian with Roger and Ian and really enjoyed it.

Thursday
We ended up rushing to get out and off to Derby as Heather hadn't told us she was meeting a friend for lunch so we left thinking we had forgotten something.

We arrived at the Jonty Farmer and met up with Sami for lunch, not particularly good food as it is a student pub but it was OK.

After lunch we went to the hotel which was very nice. Heather went off with Sami and Jon and I went to the shops and I bought some shoes. We got back to the hotel to have a cup of tea and Jon realised he had forgotten his soap bag so had to rush out to buy all new stuff and then had a very nice Tesco wash bag to carry it around in!

We went out to la Tasca for dinner which was just around the corner from the hotel. We had a lovely meal of tapas and a very simple pudding of vanilla ice cream with a tot of sherry poured over it and it was so nice.

Back to the hotel and hopefully a good night's sleep.

Friday

We had a very early start to get to the assembly rooms to get Heather's robes and we had to be in our seats by 9.15. It was really cold today -5 degrees! We had the official photos taken and then we went to get a seat. One very nice young lady told us the best place to sit and we managed to get seats on the balcony looking at the stage and hopefully would be able to get a good photo as she walked across. That was not to be as she walked across so fast I don't think she even touched the chancellor's hand!! It was a lovely ceremony and I had a few tears. i dread to think what I will be like when they get married!

After lots of photos with friends we went back to the hotel to check out and had more photos taken there as it was so nice on the stairs. We then went up to the university for lunch which was not so good, a bit like a school dinner really!!! We had lunch with Katharine and her dad who wanted to join us. Katharine will not have her ceremony till tomorrow.

We set off to drive to Liverpool land Heather stayed as she is going to the graduation ball tomorrow.


We made good time and arrived at Joyce's house in time for a cup of tea.


We had dinner later and then did lots of talking. We were very tired when we went to bed.

Is it Monday?

Terrible sleep, woke at 5.27 and I couldn't sleep again. Finally got up for a cup of tea, nowhere to sit as Malcolm in living room so stood in kitchen and tidied a drawer.


Jon was soon up and showered and then Malcolm. Jon cooked breakfast and I showered. Not sure what day it is today, everything catching up with me I think.


After Malcolm left we did some housework!!!!!! Washing and bits and bobs.


Heather took me into town and I bought some things from M & S and then M & Cs. Newmarket has so many shops closed now and it looks so dingy.


Took Jon a sandwich back and then we went over to see Roger and Mary which was nice and had a good natter.


A quick trip to Waitrose and then home to cook dinner for everyone,- turkey leftovers!. Not a very happy house lots of tiredness around I think.


Jon had early night and then J&J went home and it was then time for my bed. I really hope I sleep well tonight.

Sunday Christmas Day

We both slept really badly last night. Heather came in at about 2.00 and Kirsty and James at 4.00 so we were disturbed and we are not used to it. I notice a lot of noise on the street with cars which we don't get and as we have the window open it is loud. We are finding the central heating very hot and stuffy.

We got up and James was asleep on the sofa and had been there all night. He got up and then put the turkey in to cook and went to bed. I fear Christmas Day is going to be a little jaded.

Jon and I went into Cambridge to buy the tumble dryer and we also managed to grab a coffee.

When we got back I went across to see Rene and Fran and stayed a little while with them. When I got back Malcolm had arrived and dinner was well under way. I asked if I could help but James and Kirsty said they were fine - it feels very odd not cooking in my own kitchen.

Dinner was lovely but I think they all would have preferred to be in bed! And the day passed like any Christmas Day.

We had cold turkey sandwiches in the evening and everyone drank and ate too much.

Final Leg Thur, Fri and Saturday

THIS IS IN THE WRONG ORDER SO YOU WILL NEED TO READ FROM THE BOTTOM AS IT WON'T LET ME COPY AND PASTE TO MOVE IT AROUND.

SATURDAY
Slept reasonably well but we both woke up a lot. We had a shower and then James took us to Histon to collect the hire car.

We drove to the Park n Ride and then got the bus into Cambridge. We went in for a coffee and got a good flat!

We then went shopping and I really enjoyed M&S! Jon bought jacket, trousers, socks, underpants so he enjoyed M&S, too!

We went to the pasty shop for lunch.
Cambridge was very busy with so many people and bikes. We then got the bus back to the car.

We went to Tesco, and did some shopping and bought some towels as they only seem to have old ones and they are a bit rough!

Got home and had a nice cup of tea.

The tumble dryer has broken and we are going to need to use it as we don't have enough clothes with us so we went out to Cambridge but all the shops were closed.

We went out to New Wellie for dinner with James and Kirsty and then home and they went out to club as it was supposed to be 'Christmas Eve' I went home and cleaned kitchen!


THURSDAY


We had a really good sleep and were glad we had the stopover.

I had some lovely granola, fruit and yogurt for breakfast. Jon had a big American breakfast which was too much.

We then went up to pack our cases and then had a look around the hotel and went for a coffee then into the shop and bought a T shirt for Jane and some boDY lotion for Kirsty.

They had told us to get the shuttle from the hotel at about 12.30 as we needed to check in at 1.00. They were a bit late coming up for the luggage and so it was 12.40 when we left hotel.

However there was no problem at check in and we were through really fast and as it was business they have a man to put your bags through x-ray so we were in the lounge by 1.00 having a drink and some salad for lunch.

I went on Facebook while we were waiting but it didn't seem to be too long before the flight was called.

We had good pods right in the nose and we were told they are good seats as there is very little engine noise. We saw a lovely sunset as we were taking off.

One of the stewards, Matt was very funny and so attentive we had really good service and another lovely dinner. I didn't have so much to drink this time but did have a coffee and although the flight was really smooth I could not sleep at all so wonder if perhaps it was not decaf. I spent the flight watching films between trying to get to sleep.

FRIDAY
I was glad when it was time for everyone to wake up and I got my hot towel. For breakfast I had a bacon roll and fruit.

The flight was really fast and we reached Heathrow too early so had to have 25 minutes holding over London and it was bumpy. The landing however was incredibly smooth.

We got through quite quickly and it was lovely to see Heather and James there to meet us and we didn't think it was very cold but it was very grey!

We had a good journey home and were surprised as James had managed to get the living room decorated but Jane and Kirsty had spent the morning rushing around trying to get everything back in place.

As they had been so busy with the living room they had sort of forgotten about our room and that was a bit of a mess and we had to get it sorted. Sam had left it in a pretty grotty state.

After a shower we were both feeling much better. Jon is not happy with the cats who are very mischievous and get into everything.

Kirsty cooked dinner which was very nice and we managed to stay up till 1.00 and then fell into bed.

WEATHER is warmer than we thought it would be 1 degree

LA

There were lots of turbulents but they didn't seem so bad when lying down and I did finally sleep and didn't want to wake when the hostess came round with hot towels and juice.

After a lovely breakfast I felt better and we were soon coming into LA which is huge and so spread out with long very busy roads.

It was a super landing, very smooth and as we were first off we were at the front of the queue for immigration. After all the stories we had been told about arriving in USA we had no trouble at all and the staff were very pleasant. We did have to hold Jon's stub up for the fingerprints though!

Our cases arrived safely but took a bit of time coming through. We went out and found the stop for the courtesy bus to the hotel which took about ten minutes even though it was an airport hotel the site is very big. We checked in and the room was very nice. The first thing we needed was a shower
and change of clothes. We took off at 7.00 pm on Wednesday and arrived at 10.00 am on the same day. I don't know whether I am coming or going at the moment. The bellboy who brought our cases up asked us what he should call us and being used to Kiwis and how friendly and familiar they are, he said Jon. As they bellboy was leaving and for the rest of our stay he called us Mr and Mrs Jon!!!

We then went out to the hotel bar for lunch which was OK. I wish I had brought a swimming costume with me as the weather was so warm and the hotel had a lovely pool.

We went to reception and booked a tour of LA with five minutes to spare. Everyone is so polite and helpful.

We enjoyed the tour of city and Venice, which is not very nice. It gave us a feel for it and we now know where we want to go when we come back with Heather.

Hollywood Boulevard is very busy with lots of people and we felt a bit dirty, not like you see on the TV.

We were told where to go to view the Hollywood sign which seemed a long way off. The letters are 30 foot wide and 50 ft high and were originally used as a marketing ploy to sell off plots of land but is now one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

We then went to the Farmers Market which was lovely with some very nice shops and we managed to get a cup of tea.


We are feeling very, very tired now and wanted to get back to the hotel but there was so much traffic it took a long time.

We got changed, again, and went down to the bar and had cocktails while we waited for a table in the restaurant.


We had a really good meal, we shared a starter and then had a lovely steak followed by New York cheesecake and a coffee which I hope IS decaf.

Now we are really very tired and looking forward to bed.


WEATHER
Lovely warm sunny day 18 degrees

We are on our way

Well I now find I can think of typing up my blog. I have nearly a month's worth to type up so it is going to take some time to get up to date. I also have three weeks of Neighbours and Coronation Street to catch up on! I should be doing some housework but it is very hot.

We were up early this morning and after breakfast we took the dog for a walk.

Then the hard bit of taking Totty to kennels. I know she will be fine but it is such a long time and as usual she had to be carried.

Jon and I then went for a coffee at the garden centre. I can't believe I am so relaxed about this trip.

When we got back I did the packing which was easy as we have lots of room but I am sure we will need it for our return with Heather!

I then did a last bit of washing and hung it up in the garage and the last of my ironing so the house is all tidy and there is nothing else to do. Jon caught up with some TV he had recorded so we have plenty of space to record things while we are away.

We had lunch and then waited for Mike to pick us up to go to the airport.

It was so easy checking in at Tauranga our cases will, hopefully, now go through to LA and we won't have to have the bother of checking them in at Auckland.

We waited in the Koru lounge for the flight and had a beer while we waited.

The plane was one of the smaller ones, 19 seats, so not a lot of room and I think our luggage took up most of the hold as we had four cases!

It was a lovely smooth flight but a bit of a rocky landing. We walked across to the International terminal, 10 minutes but with no cases so not so bad. We checked in and went up to the Koru lounge and as Jon handed over his boarding pass and the man scanned it he said 'Oh you have requested an upgrade and I am pleased to say you have been upgraded to Business'. We were very happy!

We waited to board and I had a cup of tea but nothing to eat as we would get a meal on the plane as soon as we took off. We boarded and had a nice 'pod' each and were given a glass of sparking wine. There was a delay due to the computer in USA breaking down and some passengers details had to be entered again and so we were given another glass of wine.

We finally took off and were told the flight would be 12 hours and they expected turbulents. We were then given our pre ordered G&T and then had to choose our meal. There is quite a large table that comes out at the side and this is set with white lined. We had a starter, main, pudding and cheese and biscuits all very nice with wine with the meal, dessert wine followed by port to go with the cheese.

The crew then got the cabin ready for bed and pulled out our beds and put the mattress on and a duvet and pillow all very smart. And now to see if I can sleep.

WEATHER
Cloudy but warm

A nice walk around the Mount

I was up and out early and had a lovely walk around the Mount with Alison followed by a coffee.

I got home and then took Totty out for her walk.

It was then off into Tauranga to the library, the gift shop and to buy some buttons. A quick trip to the supermarket and also the chemist to buy a small bottle of contact lens solution for the flight.

Home for lunch and Jon was late. His ear is still giving him trouble.

I had to go out to the chemist again after lunch as the stuff she gave me needs saline solution afterwards so that is no use. I ended up buying two small bottles to decant some solution into. There is a market for 100mls contact lens solution - I must tell Specsavers.

Got home again and folded all the clothes ready to put in the cases.

I then sat in the sun for an hour. Jon came home early and we had a cup of tea and did more sorting before taking the dog out.

We then got ready and went out to the Italian for a very nice dinner.

When we got back I spent ages trying to download books for my eReader but ended up calling the helpline and spoke to a very fast talking American who was hard to follow but we got there in the end and now I have two new books.

Must get to bed now as I have a busy day tomorrow.

WEATHER
Hot and sunny 26 degrees

A visit to the osteopath

Jon didn't sleep very well as he, in his wisdom, decided not to take any painkillers as he was feeling better. Of course, he was feeling better because of the painkillers!!! He was up through the night to take some.

He went off to work but he really didn't look well.

I took Totty out for her walk and when I came back I called the osteopath and she said she could see me at 9.40 so off I went as my neck is just so painful.

She gave me a good massage and it did feel better . She has given me some exercises to do and said I should make sure I do them when I get off the plane in LA.

I went for a coffee on the way home and then got stuck into some housework when I got back.

Jon came home and looked bad so I told him to make sure he didn't work late as he is prone to do.

Alison called to say she could come over for a cup of tea which was nice as I was able to stop ironing. She told me she had a wheat bag I could borrow as the osteopath said heat might help. I wen back across with her to get it.

When I came back I called Joan who had left me a message on the answer phone. She just wanted to wish us a safe and happy trip. I put the wheat bag on and it did seem to help.

Jon came home early and just sat and had a cup of tea. I know the doctor said it would get worse before it gets better but I hope there will be a big improvement by tomorrow or he is not going to have a good trip.

We took the dog around the block for a quick walk.

I hadn't forgotten it was our anniversary today but I had forgotten to prepare a special dinner so we just had sticky chicken drumsticks - well it is 31 years and we are going out tomorrow night.

My neck really doesn't feel much better and i don't know what else I can do, Ibuprofen doesn't even touch it. Maybe a good night's sleep.

WEATHER
Hot and sunny 26 degrees

Finally got some packing sorted

I was up first again today and showered and dressed well before Jon. When he did finally wake, which was still only 7.45, I made him a cooked breakfast and he hasn't had one of those at home for a very long time.

My neck is still very painful so I will have to see somebody tomorrow.

We took Totty out to Rotary Park and it was lovely down there. When we got back Kirsty called and we had a nice chat again.

We went out for coffee up to Greerton but the muffins were not up to standard today. Jon's ear is still pretty bad and he is still taking the painkillers, the doctor did say it would get worse before it got better.

On our way back we popped in to the supermarket for lettuce and a paper. I am just buying things as we need them as I don't want to have to throw stuff away.

I popped into Postie+ and finally managed to find some navy jogging bottoms. I need them to wear from LA to London as it is going to be cold when we arrive and I can't wear jeans on a long flight as I get bad tummy pains.

We got back and we both started to get things sorted out which seems to have upset Totty as she is following me around very closely. I have made sure that everything I am packing I will wear as there is not much space to take stuff that is not going to be of use.

We had lunch and Bronwyn called to invite us over later for drinks. I told her we would see how we got on.

I got things pretty much sorted and decided to have an hour in the sun and read my book which was very nice. Totty came and sat on the lounger with me but it is far too hot for her so she reluctantly got off and went indoors.

We went across to Bronwyn's and Alison and Doug came over and also a very nice Dutch couple we have met before.

We intended to go for a pizza to our local bar but as we had been drinking we had to order one, online, from Domino's and it arrived in about 25 minutes which was pretty good.

It has been very warm tonight and we had all the doors and windows open till some local set off some fireworks and set the dog off. I think we might need the fan on in the bedroom tonight.

WEATHER
Hot and sunny 27 degrees

Jon has an ear infection

I woke up and still have a bad neck so I think I might go to the osteopath on Monday for some emergency treatment as the chiropractor obviously isn't working.

Jon got up and showered after me and it was getting on for 9.00 and very warm so we took Totty out before having breakfast.

When we got back Kirsty called to give us her flight details for coming here. They will get the earlier flight from Melbourne as it is much cheaper. We could change ours but we will have to pay. They get in two hours before us to Tauranga and say they don't mind waiting at the airport. I said Heather could pick them up but she wants to wait. She said by the time they get off the plane and wait for their luggage it won't be so long. I explained to her that is was a really small airport and you walk straight into the terminal and your cases come off more or less the same time as you do. I think she might be surprised to see how small it is!!

We had finished chatting and I noticed Jon was prodding his ear and when I asked if it was sore he said it was. I said we should go to the doctor and he said what if they say I can't fly - silly man! How he thought he was just going to ignore it I don't know as by the time we got to the surgery he was in a lot of pain, it was Thailand all over again.

Fortunately our surgery sees emergency patients all day on Saturday and Sunday so he was in there within five minutes and they gave him antibiotics, ear drops and pain killers. We went off for a coffee and a muffin, he needed to take them with food, and within an hour he was feeling a bit better. Hopefully it will be fine by Wednesday.

I had bought some new bedding for Heather's bed and I washed it weeks ago and put it on the bed yesterday only to find the bed is king size and I had bought double so the fitted sheet does not fit and so we had to go and buy another today.

We popped in to buy some food at the supermarket. We did book a table to go out tonight but Jon is not up to it so we will go on Tuesday night instead.

We bought loads of different things at the supermarket this morning to get rid of cockroaches and Jon set traps, sprayed and set off a bomb thing in the garage where we keep the wood and we think they are coming from. Hopefully, at least one of them will help!!!

We sorted out so much rubbish that we have accumulated over the last two years and I sorted out drawers and my kitchen cupboards throwing out stuff that is out of date or I really won't use again. Tomorrow I will sort out some clothes which I never got round to today.

We took Totty out for a walk and it looked like we were in for a storm but it passed over and we were able to cook our bbq.

Jon went to bed early as he is still not feeling well. Hopefully, he will be much better tomorrow. Thank goodness I made him go to the doctor!! Just need my neck to get better now!!!



WEATHER

Clear blue skies and not so humid 26 degrees

Last day at Red Cross for a few weeks

It was just one of those days today.

My neck is really sore and so I thought I would give the chiropractor a call and see if he can fit me in. I was just about to take Totty out and Jon called to say he had forgotten to get me to sign the residency papers and could I go over to the office to do it as he wanted it to be sent off this morning.

I thought I ought to phone the chiropractor before I left so called them and was told they could see me now, 8.30, but they would only be in till 11.00 as they were still on holiday hours. So poor Totty missed out on her walk and I went up to the chiropractor. He did some manipulation and said he thought it would settle down. I can't imagine flying for 12 hours like this.

I then went across to the Mount to sign the papers and then back to the Red Cross and all before 9.30!!

It was very hot and busy in the shop all morning and I was glad when it was time to go home.

Got back and made lunch for Jon and we watched the cricket. England only needed one wicket but Jon had to go as he had a meeting. Would you believe they got the wicket two minutes after he left!!

I decided to bath the dog as she smells and needed flea treatment.

I then put the new covers on Heather's bed so her room is now ready.

Carol, the Avon lady called with my things and we had a nice lemon, lime and bitters and a chat.

I then sat and tried to get rid of this awful neck pain but it won't go. Carol's son is an osteopath so I think I might end up going to see him on Monday if it gets no better.

Jon came home and we had fish and chips which was very good and our last for a few weeks!!!

WE have booked our anniversary dinner for tomorrow night.


WEATHER
So hot and humid all day, shower in the evening 27 degrees down to 19 tonight!!!!

Pamper day

I was up and ready early to take Totty out and then went over to the Mount to the hairdresser. She is a friend of Jodie, my hairdresser that moved to Oz. She is very nice and engaged to a Brit and she only charges $35 so cheap.

From there I went to have some photos taken for my residency and then for a coffee while I was waiting for them. I managed to fit a bit of shopping for presents in before going off to have my manicure followed by a pedicure. By the time that was all finished it was 1.30 and I was hungry.

I went across to Tauranga and posted some cake to my friend in USA and then went for some lunch.

I then tried to find some jogging bottoms to wear on the plane but I can't find any without a stripe on.

By this time I was tired and more than ready to go home and had a cup of tea. We got another four Christmas cards today some have taken nearly four weeks to get here, we had four yesterday, too.

At 4.30 I took Totty to the vet for her kennel cough booster and was there till 5.30. I took her out for a walk later after a heavy shower of rain and had a quick chat with Bronwyn.

Jon had been for a haircut and came home and I cooked dinner.

I am missing my chiropractor appointments, my neck is really sore. He is on holiday and won't be back till end of Jan so I think I will have to go and see the other chap who works there and see if he can sort it.

WEATHER
Hot and humid with a few showers of fine rain 25 degrees

Last swimming class for a few weeks

I managed to get Totty out for a walk before going across to my aquacise class.

The water was, once again, too hot and we were all glad when the class finished. Coffee for me this morning was an iced one as it was just too hot and the Mount was very busy.

I then went down and did a bit of shopping for things to take home. then off to the supermarket to get some fish for dinner and then home.

I had a message from Jon to say we had an appointment wit a local JP to have copies of our passports verified. We need to send them off for our residency but of course we need to take them with us to UK so we needed copies. She was very nice and we didn't have to pay anything!!!

After lunch I did a bit of housework and then Viv came round for a cup of tea and a piece of Christmas cake and we had a nice chat. Viv is originally from Essex and we were talking of family trees and things.

When Viv had gone I started my ironing while watching the cricket. When it was cooler I took Totty out for a walk.

Jon came home and I cooked the fish and then I went on the Internet while he caught up with some recorded TV.

I am getting a bit fed up trying to keep everyone happy in the UK with our visit. We only have three weeks and have so many people to see and it is becoming a nightmare when people don't understand how tight our time is and I just wonder if it is worth it!!!! We have so many hotels booked and cars and goodness knows what else. I am beginning to wish we had just turned up and not told anyone!!!! I am sure it will be alright when we get there but I feel like I am being pulled in all directions.

WEATHER
Hot and sunny 25 degrees

Afternoon tea

We both felt under the weather this morning, too much to eat and drink last night. I didn't drink much but felt fragile so started on water and lots of it!!

I took Totty out for a walk and felt better after that but Jon stayed home.

Spent the day sorting things ready for home, only one week now.

We had booked high tea at the Sebel Trinity Hotel. It was one of the Grab One offers I bought. We arrived at 4.00 and it was lovely and cool in the hotel with lovely views out across the harbour. We had little sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, Bakewell tart and finished with some tiny little cakes and a tiny apple pie and with a nice cup of tea it was really lovely.

Back home I did a bit more on my photo album and then we took Totty out and it felt cooler out than in.

We were so full after out tea we just picked at a few leftovers from yesterday.

It will be good to get back to normal tomorrow but for now we are having an early night.

WEATHER
Overcast and humid first thing then hot, sunny and humid 25 degrees.

Our first bbq

We were up at a sensible time as we had a lot to do. Kirsty had said she would call so we waited for her and she did eventually and we had a chat and she told me all about her Christmas and New Year.

We then took Totty out and when we got back I made the trifle for pudding tonight.

We then went down to Angela's house and I dropped off a card for her and we then went down for a coffee.

We went to Briscoe's and bought some new scissors and had a look for a wine chiller but didn't find one. Next stop was to the supermarket for some beer and then home for lunch.

Jon went out for some gas and bought a wine cooler.

Ross and Sandra phoned to say they would be a bit late and finally arrived at 5.30. We had a nice evening with them and enjoyed some good English sausages and some very nice rump steak. The pudding was very nice and we all, well not Sandra as she was driving, drank far too much wine.

When they left about 11.30 we tided up and put the dishwasher on and went to bed feeling very icky and wishing I had drunk more water!!!!


WEATHER
Hot and very sunny 27 degrees

Another day at the beach

We took Totty for her walk and it was really hot and she was slow and puffed out before we had even got to the park.

When we got back we decided it was too hot to go to the races and decided to go to the beach instead so I packed our picnic and some very nice strawberry champagne.

We stopped for a coffee before we went onto the beach and had a lovely brownie and cream - well I hadn't eaten breakfast!

The beach was busy and also windy which was just as well as it made the heat bearable. We stayed till 3.30 when we had had enough of sand and wind. Our new chairs we bought yesterday are very comfortable.

Got back and had a shower and a cup of tea and then I put the lamb in to roast - why do I cook roast meat when it is so hot???

We took Totty out for a quick walk but it was 27 degrees so hotter than it was this morning and she was even more puffed.

We had a lovely gin fizz before dinner and then enjoyed out lamb sitting on the deck.

A really nice day.

WEATHER
Hot and sunny. officially the max was 23 degrees but on the weather this evening it was 27 in Tauranga!!! Not sure how they worked that one.

New Year's Day

After a pretty heavy night and far too much to drink we finally got up at 9.00

Jon said now we have Christmas and New Year out of the way we can get the cases out and really start thinking about our trip home arghhhhh!!!!!!!!

We popped out for a coffee and had some prints made of the Genera Christmas dinner. We went to the Warehouse as I wanted to buy more Christmas tree decorations - in time for next year!!! They had lots at 75% off and we also got some nice decorations for the girls along with a nice gift wrap set and two low beach chairs. We went into the Warehouse not needing anything but came out having spent $74.

We got home and found a message from Heather so called her back and had a chat to wish her Happy New Year but we haven't heard from Jane or Kirsty.

I suggested to Jon that we invite Bronwyn and Peter round for drinks and they said yes so I quickly had to raid the cupboards and freezer for nibbles and although I do say so myself we had a good spread and a very pleasant afternoon.

I cooked an omelette for Jon and I just finished the nibbles.

We were having a very peaceful evening and then the neighbours at the front set off fireworks and Totty went mad. I just wish they would let me know if they are having fireworks and then I would close the doors and be prepared. I eventually just left her to run around and bark out on the deck and they soon got the message.


WEATHER
Hot and sunny all day 27 degrees.