We had an early start this morning as we had a lot to get around. Heather has a day off to come with us today.
We drove to Rotorua and arrived just in time at Te Puia to make the cultural show at 10.00 or we would have had to wait till 12.00 and we have too much to see!!
The Japanese have a terrible reputation for pushing in at tourist things and the Maori people get very cross so as we were all waiting to go into the meeting house at the start of the show you have to take off your shoes and the Maori woman was calling me forward even though I was not at the front. As i got up to her she told me to go in and whispered in my ear that I was white and different to them! so I managed to get us some very good seats at the front. When we looked she had kept all the Japanese till the last and then put up a sign which said 'Look no pushing' I don't think you would get away with that anywhere else and if you did it to a Maori you would be in big trouble!!!
Part of the show is a dance with 'poi' which are soft balls on the end of ropes and you swing them around. they asked for volunteers and so I got up with some other women and danced on the stage much to the embarrassment of the girls. BUT then the men had to get up and do the Hakka and James got up to do that and it was so funny.
After the show we went around the park and arrived in time to see the huge geyser blow off and it seemed to go on forever so we chose a good day to visit. James and Kirsty were very impressed.
We had a very good lunch at the Fat Dog before going to the Gondola and luge. It was really good fun and James loved it. Kirsty was very nervous and particularly so coming back up on the chairlift. Really funny how she loves all the big theme park rides but a little chair lift freaked her out.
They have a new simulator ride which takes you on a helicopter trip through the South Island and was really good. The second part of the show was in 3D and i can't normally see 3D but I did manage to see a lot of it and it was really good.
They all went on more luge rides and I went and had a cup of tea and a sit in the sun and took some photos of them going down.
It was then time to go home and I wished I could just wriggle my nose and we would be there.
We stopped at the supermarket on way home for a few things.
My notes tell me 'dinner very nice' but for the life of me I can't now remember what we had!
We got some nice photos of Kirsty, James and Heather on the luge.
I was more than ready for my bed.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny all day 24 degrees
Thursday, 31 March 2011
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Wednesday and no swimming today
Managed to get up for the sunrise and down to the beach by 7.00. As the clocks change on Saturday this was the last chance to do it at a sensible time. As sunrises go it was not so good as too much cloud but they sky was pretty pink and orange and so it was worth it. No time for my swimming class today.
We got back for breakfast and shower and we had a chat to Jane which was nice and happened as James dialed the wrong 'home' number and instead of his mum we got Jane.
We went across to Bayfair for Kirsty to get her nails done. she had acrylic ones put on before she left the UK and they have been coming off and she is left with about four so needed a new set.
James and I wandered around Bayfair while she was having then done and went for a coffee. I ordered a 'large' as I usually do but forgot that this particular bar has huge coffee and what I got was like a bucket and I couldn't drink it all.
We then continued on to Kiwi 360. I mentioned to the lady that they should have loyalty cards like they do for coffee. She asked me how many times I had been and I told her this would be my fifth so she said I could go in for free!!! It was only the three of us on the trolley and we enjoyed the trip and had a play in the park afterwards before we tried some of the Kiwi fruit liquor.
We then went on down to Maketu for lunch but unfortunately the bar there was closed so we had to make do with one of the famous Maketu pies and a drink sitting by the beach which was very pleasant. We then went for a walk on the beach and found lots of shells which I will have to post to Kirsty as they will not be allowed to take them into Australia.
It was then on to Comvita to see the bee hives and a good tasting of honey. Fascinating how they work.
We went to the English butcher to get some sausages and venison steaks on the way home.
With a boot full of rubbish it was a good job I remembered to go into the tip on the way back!
Back in time for a much needed cuppa. We had a message on the answerphone to say Heather's phone ready but had been taken to the wrong branch and we would need to go and get it from the other side of town which is a bit of a pain.
We all went out to walk the dog before coming back for dinner and I did the ironing after dinner.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 24 degrees
We got back for breakfast and shower and we had a chat to Jane which was nice and happened as James dialed the wrong 'home' number and instead of his mum we got Jane.
We went across to Bayfair for Kirsty to get her nails done. she had acrylic ones put on before she left the UK and they have been coming off and she is left with about four so needed a new set.
James and I wandered around Bayfair while she was having then done and went for a coffee. I ordered a 'large' as I usually do but forgot that this particular bar has huge coffee and what I got was like a bucket and I couldn't drink it all.
We then continued on to Kiwi 360. I mentioned to the lady that they should have loyalty cards like they do for coffee. She asked me how many times I had been and I told her this would be my fifth so she said I could go in for free!!! It was only the three of us on the trolley and we enjoyed the trip and had a play in the park afterwards before we tried some of the Kiwi fruit liquor.
We then went on down to Maketu for lunch but unfortunately the bar there was closed so we had to make do with one of the famous Maketu pies and a drink sitting by the beach which was very pleasant. We then went for a walk on the beach and found lots of shells which I will have to post to Kirsty as they will not be allowed to take them into Australia.
It was then on to Comvita to see the bee hives and a good tasting of honey. Fascinating how they work.
We went to the English butcher to get some sausages and venison steaks on the way home.
With a boot full of rubbish it was a good job I remembered to go into the tip on the way back!
Back in time for a much needed cuppa. We had a message on the answerphone to say Heather's phone ready but had been taken to the wrong branch and we would need to go and get it from the other side of town which is a bit of a pain.
We all went out to walk the dog before coming back for dinner and I did the ironing after dinner.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 24 degrees
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
Tuesday
I was up as normal and walked the dog before going to keep fit. I came straight home after the class and had a shower.
I took Kirsty and James out to do some shopping at the supermarket and they enjoyed looking around and seeing what we have down here.
After lunch we went out to McLaren Falls and somehow managed to get washing done and hung out and brought back in again later.
I prepared the meat for the BBQ before taking Tot out for her walk.
The BBQ dinner was very late and we drank too much wine!
We need to go to bed to be up early tomorrow for sunrise.
WEATHER
Very cool start then warm and then very hot
I took Kirsty and James out to do some shopping at the supermarket and they enjoyed looking around and seeing what we have down here.
After lunch we went out to McLaren Falls and somehow managed to get washing done and hung out and brought back in again later.
I prepared the meat for the BBQ before taking Tot out for her walk.
The BBQ dinner was very late and we drank too much wine!
We need to go to bed to be up early tomorrow for sunrise.
WEATHER
Very cool start then warm and then very hot
Monday, 28 March 2011
Sunday Grand prix and Monday back to NZ
Woke at 7.00 and showered. Text from Kirsty to say lots of traffic on the way to the airport, their flight was before ours. Arrived at the airport and had to go and get petrol and not make the mistake of going back on the freeway! Melbourne airport is manic made worse by so many people leaving after the Grand Prix. Checked in but as so many Gold members I could not go in the lounge, only Jon as he is the member so we just waited in the public area and had some fruit for breakfast. Really good flight as it was a 777 so big plane. Good food, too. I watched Black Swan and Tangled, two good films. Arrived on time and went across to Domestic Departures and into the lounge and had a cup of tea and a cake and waited for our flight. Arrived in Tauranga at 8.00 and Heather was there with James and Kirsty and we went home and had fish and chips as it was too late to cook anything else. Poor Heather has been turfed out of her room and is not very happy about it but she has known she would be for a long time. I am sure she will be fine in a couple of days. WEATHER Cloudy in Melbourne. Sunny and warm in NZ 22 degrees Sunday A good breakfast across the road at the Southern Cross Mall. James so excited so we had to get a move on and get on a tram and get to Albert Park and we arrived in time for gates opening. Lots to do at the park with side shows and entertainment. Some amazing guys on motor bikes jumping from ramps and flying through the air and at times letting go of the bikes and then grabbing them again, very scary. Also motor bikes going round in a ball and they got up to four bikes at one time. We had a walk around the lake and across the very wobbly bridge that is built from plastic blocks just for the day. We had a nice coffee and were given a voucher for L'Oreal. We queued up for a while and Jon was given a facial and gift pack which was worth a lot of money so well worth the wait. The noise of the cars was amazing. Jon bought some head phones which have a radio in them and had it not been for them we would not have known what was going on in the race as you could not hear the commentary. There was, amongst many, a Spanish food stall and I had a very nice paella for lunch. Fortunately the sun was now out and it was warm at last. We then went back to seats after walking all the away around. It was now very hot in the stand. The umbrella I took for the rain came in very useful to keep us shaded from the sun, much to Kirsty's disgust!! I did start a trend though.Went to sit in shade for 30 minutes then much cooler. Grand Prix pretty boring as I didn't know what was going on but I enjoyed it. Walked along the track after the race and the headed for the gate. Big queue for tram back but it didn't really take that long and we were dropped right by our hotel. Quick change then out for dinner to the Italian which was very good. Early to bed very tired and need to pack. WEATHER Started very overcast and cool then very hot and sunny
Saturday, 26 March 2011
A very scary surprise?
I managed to wake up early and get down to meet K & J for breakfast. We walked to the Radison to be picked up for the Neighbours tour. There were lots of trams in our street which was the main pick up area to get out to the Grand Prix so just by chance we ended up in the most convenient place. The Neighbours tour was very good and I really enjoyed being in 'Ramsey Street' which is actually called Pin Oak Court. Standing outside the houses was really strange. It looks much better cared for on the TV than it actually is. They have a security guard on duty so that you do not go onto any of the properties. I have to say if I lived there it would drive me mad. I think they must be paid a lot of money to allow the filming. We were then taken to the set at the studios and saw the hotel, the lake, Charlies Bar and Harold's for those of you who watch it!! It is really small and yet it all looks so big on the programme. I loved it and it was a really good Mother's Day present and one I will never forget. They tell you that you will meet one of the characters, past or present!!! Ours was very past!!! When she got onto our bus not many people recognised her which was a bit embarrassing to say the least. She used to play Janelle and I really liked her when she was in the programme about two years ago but she has lost a lot of weight since and looked nothing like her character.!!!! However, she was very nice to chat to and signed our cards and told us lots of things about the programme. We also picked up lots of tit bits from our guide about future story lines which are about to happen. We got back to the hotel and set off out in the car to take James on his surprise birthday trip that Kirsty had organised for him. James was not a happy boy and I could feel the vibes coming from the back of the car and felt very uncomfortable. He had wanted to stay in and watch the qualifying for the Grand Prix. It is quite a long drive to Geelong o typical Aussie roads ie nothing much on them and not many places to stop for lunch!!!! I was getting edgy by now but we eventually found a place for lunch but still had a way to go for the airfield and I was wishing Kirsty would tell James where we were going. We finally arrived and we saw a lovely red helicopter and James thought we were all going up in that and then as we got round to the back of the building Kirsty pointed out this old Japanese fighter plane and told him he was going up in that!!! I really didn't think he would do it as he did not look impressed more like a rabbit caught in headlights!!! we had to wait as the weather had not been good and there was one man still waiting to go up. The clouds broke up and they took off and came back safely. We hadn't been able to see the plane due to the cloud but it was breaking up all the time so by the time James took off it was pretty clear. We could see the plane in the distance and all I can say is I am glad I was not in it. It did loops and flips and flew upside down and then straight up in the air and then just dropped. When they landed he looked happy but when he got out of the plane his legs were like jelly but he said he had enjoyed it. We then drove to Point Lonsdale a little way along the coast and all part of the Huge area that is Melbourne Harbour even though it took us over an hour to drive down there. James was looking a little green and I asked Jon to stop so I could take some photos and James enjoyed some fresh air!! We carried on down to a lighthouse where there were three wedding parties having photos taken in gale force winds. The sea at this point, so I had read, makes a big rip where it comes in and I have never seen such a rough and vicious looking sea and I am sure nobody could swim in it but it is a very beautiful spot. We managed to get a phone signal there and huddled in a corner and phoned Heather for our daily catch up. I was feeling very guilty leaving her on her own in NZ but she was fine. James was by now feeling much better so we set off on the long drive back to the hotel. After a shower we all went out to Docklands for dinner, this time we caught a taxi as it was cold and windy. We went to a Brazilian churascaria which was not the best but we had a nice evening. The lights were turned out for Earth Hour during the evening and the waitress knocked our ice bucket over along with all our fizzy wine. Kirsty and I had only had one glass each from the bottle and they brought us another one. We had eaten so much the walk back to the hotel was very welcome or I don't think I would have been able to sleep. WEATHER Cloudy most of the day with a few sunny spells 20 degrees.
Friday, 25 March 2011
Thursday and Friday
We had a quiet morning and took Tot to Rotary Park and then went out for coffee and to buy a few things from the supermarket that I had forgotten. We packed our cases and left for the airport at 12.10 and were there by 12.20!! After checking in we went and sat in the Koru lounge to wait for our flight. The plane was one of the bigger ones with about 30 seats. After a lovely clear flight we arrived in Auckland 20 minutes later. After our ten minute trot across to international we bought the duty free for Bronwyn and then went up to the lounge. Lunch was a bit of a disappointment as it was just changing over but we did manage to get some good bread and cheese with some nice dips later on but as a meal was due to be served on the plane it was fine. The flight was good and smooth but the landing was horrible as it was very windy and it came in so fast I thought he was not going to stop!!! We went o collect the hire car and Melbourne was soooo cold. Jon had bought a new sat nav for the trip but it didn't pick up a signal and by the time we had left the car park we still had no signal but found ourselves very quickly on the freeway into the city with no idea were we were going! What happened next was amazing for us. We carried on down the freeway and we could see the city to our left and so I said to Jon we had better take the next exit and then see where we are. We came off the freeway, took a left turn and then pulled over and incredibly we were on Spencer Street near number 600 and our hotel was number 300!!!! Who needs a sat nav with a nose like mine!! After checking in and unpacking we left the hotel to go and meet Rodney and his Russian partner, Irena, Rodney is the son of the owner of Genera and works on the Australian branch of the company. We met in an Italian bar and decided to say there for dinner which was very good. I got on very well with Irena (Jon thinks that is her name) and we had a lovely night. The have only just moved up from Adelaid to live in Melbourne so are very new to the area. When they have bought a house and settled in she would like us to go over and stay with them which would be nice. However, she can hold her drink very well and was all set for a night on the town. Fortunately, we couldn't find anywhere and I was so tired and with the two hour difference in time it was by now 2.00 in the morning and we were ready for our bed. They got a taxi back to their flat and we walked the short distance back to the hotel. FRIDAY We had a reasonable sleep and got up and went down for breakfast in the hotel which was OK but nothing special. Jon and I went out and walked around the city dodging the showers. Melbourne is a lovely place and the public transport is really good with trams, buses and trains. One tram is a circular rote and goes around the city and is FREE!! We got into the shopping area and there are some lovely little streets with really nice shops and streets full of restaurants which are so like Spanish streets. We were very tired with all the walking and soon it was time to go back to the hotel to meet up with Kirsty and James. They eventually arrived and after a chat we went out to find some lunch. After lunch we picked up the FREE tourist, hop on hop off bus which took us up to Albert Park where we had to collect the tickets. On our walk back we went across to the Botanical Gardens and visited the huge war memorial which is lovely. We climbed to the top once up there we had amazing views across the city in all directions. We then walked back into the centre before picking up the free tram to take us back to our hotel. After a rest and a snooze we went out to dinner catching another tram down to docklands where we had a lovely meal in a pub and Jon and James had a sample paddle of six beers, Kirsty and I stuck to the fizzy wine. Docklands is lovely and although not fully developed it will be amazing when it is finished. We had a nice walk back to the hotel and picked up a tram. You have to purchase tickets from a machine on the tram but it wasn't working so we got another free ride. We were more than ready for bed!! WEATHER Cold and windy both days with a bit of sun
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
Up to date at last.
I can't believe it I am finally up to date with my blog. As we are going away again tomorrow no doubt I will get behind again.
I took Totty out to the park this morning and met the two awful yappy Jack Russels. I usually meet her on Wednesdays as I have to go out early. I am glad I only meet them once a week!
Went to my swimming class and it was really good and we worked hard and as I have aches from keep fit yesterday it was even more painful than usual.
We went to a new cafe for coffee this morning and had a good old chat with everyone before I left to go and do some shopping for Heather while we are away.
Got back and made lunch just in time for them to come home.
In the afternoon I got all my ironing finished but then did more washing.
Jon and Heather came home and Jon had bought a Sat Nav to take with us for Oz and it also has NZ on it which will be useful not that we get lost here as it is not difficult to get around.
Jon, Heather and I took tot out and then came back for dinner.
We had a text from Kirsty to say she is having a good time. I am so excited about seeing them. I do hope he likes his surprise for his birthday on Saturday!!!
I should have done some packing but hopefully I can get it all done in the morning as we don't have to be at the airport till 12.30 for out 1.10 flight from Tauranga to Auckland and then our flight to Melbourne is about 3.00 so we will be there in time for dinner!!!
WEATHER
Started cloudy but the sun came out and it got up to 29.3 on our deck in the shade 26 degrees was the official figure
I took Totty out to the park this morning and met the two awful yappy Jack Russels. I usually meet her on Wednesdays as I have to go out early. I am glad I only meet them once a week!
Went to my swimming class and it was really good and we worked hard and as I have aches from keep fit yesterday it was even more painful than usual.
We went to a new cafe for coffee this morning and had a good old chat with everyone before I left to go and do some shopping for Heather while we are away.
Got back and made lunch just in time for them to come home.
In the afternoon I got all my ironing finished but then did more washing.
Jon and Heather came home and Jon had bought a Sat Nav to take with us for Oz and it also has NZ on it which will be useful not that we get lost here as it is not difficult to get around.
Jon, Heather and I took tot out and then came back for dinner.
We had a text from Kirsty to say she is having a good time. I am so excited about seeing them. I do hope he likes his surprise for his birthday on Saturday!!!
I should have done some packing but hopefully I can get it all done in the morning as we don't have to be at the airport till 12.30 for out 1.10 flight from Tauranga to Auckland and then our flight to Melbourne is about 3.00 so we will be there in time for dinner!!!
WEATHER
Started cloudy but the sun came out and it got up to 29.3 on our deck in the shade 26 degrees was the official figure
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
Lots of rain.
We had very heavy rain overnight, all night but it was really muggy.
I called my friend Mary and had a chat to her to catch up and then I rushed off to my class. I thought with the rain it would not be so bad but it was very hot. The rain had stopped by the end of the class and the sun was coming out.
After the class I had a nice chat with another English lady and so I was very late getting to the supermarket and then rushing home for a shower and wash my hair. In between I manged to get the washing in the machine.
Heather came home for lunch but Jon had meetings. I had a quick sandwich and then rushed off out for my manicure and pedicure. The beautician is from Brazil so we had a nice chat about life in Brazil. she is married to a Kiwi with a 15 month old baby and says she would not go back to Brazil.
I went to the post office to send some parcels for Heather and then when I got home it was nearly time to get ready for Lions. I just had time to take the dog out for her walk but we both got very hot.
I called my friend Janice to see if she wanted a lift but she was out so I left a message. She didn't get back to me so I called the lady who orders the dinners and checked to see if Janice had apologised but she said as far as she knew she was coming. I decided to go round anyway and when I got there her husband came out and said he was just about to call me as Janice was not well and he had just had to come home from work. She has had some seizures over the last few years and has twice lost her licence and only got it back a month ago. I hope it is not more of the same as she will be very down if it is.
I went to the meeting, which was our 19 birthday meeting, and we had a lovely meal and then it was followed by two young girls doing some singing for us. They were very good, only 12 and 11 so quite nervous.
I was home by 9.00 and it is now very warm and I think we are in for a sleepless night again!!
WEATHER
Wet to start and then hot and sunny 26 degrees.
I called my friend Mary and had a chat to her to catch up and then I rushed off to my class. I thought with the rain it would not be so bad but it was very hot. The rain had stopped by the end of the class and the sun was coming out.
After the class I had a nice chat with another English lady and so I was very late getting to the supermarket and then rushing home for a shower and wash my hair. In between I manged to get the washing in the machine.
Heather came home for lunch but Jon had meetings. I had a quick sandwich and then rushed off out for my manicure and pedicure. The beautician is from Brazil so we had a nice chat about life in Brazil. she is married to a Kiwi with a 15 month old baby and says she would not go back to Brazil.
I went to the post office to send some parcels for Heather and then when I got home it was nearly time to get ready for Lions. I just had time to take the dog out for her walk but we both got very hot.
I called my friend Janice to see if she wanted a lift but she was out so I left a message. She didn't get back to me so I called the lady who orders the dinners and checked to see if Janice had apologised but she said as far as she knew she was coming. I decided to go round anyway and when I got there her husband came out and said he was just about to call me as Janice was not well and he had just had to come home from work. She has had some seizures over the last few years and has twice lost her licence and only got it back a month ago. I hope it is not more of the same as she will be very down if it is.
I went to the meeting, which was our 19 birthday meeting, and we had a lovely meal and then it was followed by two young girls doing some singing for us. They were very good, only 12 and 11 so quite nervous.
I was home by 9.00 and it is now very warm and I think we are in for a sleepless night again!!
WEATHER
Wet to start and then hot and sunny 26 degrees.
Monday, 21 March 2011
A wet day
I woke through the night as the rain was coming in and I was getting wet so I had to get up and close the windows.
It was still raining this morning so I did my washing and had to use the dryer.
I rang Sonia this morning and had a nice chat with her about her holiday to Jamaica where she hurt her toe, well dislocated it and had to have three stitches, not a good start to a holiday but they did eventually have a good time.
Two birds flew into the glass on the deck and stunned themselves. I thought they were dead but then I say their chests moving up and down. They are a bit like starlings. I picked them up and put them under one of the chairs to keep dry and hoped they would liven up but one looked like he had a broken leg. Fortunately, they perked up and one managed to fly away but the other one kept crashing into the glass panels which is how he hurt himself in the first place, the glass does confuse them. I tried to pick him up to let him fly but he was frightened and kept falling. I eventually manged to get him up and away he flew.
I was doing my housework and I heard a chainsaw start outside and when I looked the man from the bungalow at the front was cutting the big magnolia tree down in my neighbours garden. this is the tree that has been hanging over our drive and Jon spent about two hours pruning it yesterday and Terry comes in and chops the whole thing down in about half an hour!!!! i don't think Jon will be impressed!!! There is now a big empty space so now sure what she is going to plant there.
The Avon lady called with the things Heather and I had ordered and we had a coffee and a chat.
Heather came home for lunch but Jon had a meeting. Heather has some really big bites on her legs and we are not sure what they are from but they are very swollen and itchy.
I managed to get a lot of housework done today and so all is clean and ready for Kirsty and James I just hope Heather keeps it like this while we are away.
I took Totty out for a walk this afternoon, it was too wet this morning so she only had one walk today. Heather and I were going to go out for a power walk when she got home but it started to spit again so we couldn't go.
Jon finally called to say he would be home for dinner. He thought he might be going out with some people who are here for a conference but he didn't feel like it. I hadn't prepared dinner so we just had to have something from the freezer.
We have been trying to plan Easter and Heather wants to go to Oz but it is going to cost a lot of money for a long weekend so we are looking at other options that will suit her and she won't be bored!
WEATHER
Very wet first thing, they cloudy and dry but heavy rain at night 22 degrees
It was still raining this morning so I did my washing and had to use the dryer.
I rang Sonia this morning and had a nice chat with her about her holiday to Jamaica where she hurt her toe, well dislocated it and had to have three stitches, not a good start to a holiday but they did eventually have a good time.
Two birds flew into the glass on the deck and stunned themselves. I thought they were dead but then I say their chests moving up and down. They are a bit like starlings. I picked them up and put them under one of the chairs to keep dry and hoped they would liven up but one looked like he had a broken leg. Fortunately, they perked up and one managed to fly away but the other one kept crashing into the glass panels which is how he hurt himself in the first place, the glass does confuse them. I tried to pick him up to let him fly but he was frightened and kept falling. I eventually manged to get him up and away he flew.
I was doing my housework and I heard a chainsaw start outside and when I looked the man from the bungalow at the front was cutting the big magnolia tree down in my neighbours garden. this is the tree that has been hanging over our drive and Jon spent about two hours pruning it yesterday and Terry comes in and chops the whole thing down in about half an hour!!!! i don't think Jon will be impressed!!! There is now a big empty space so now sure what she is going to plant there.
The Avon lady called with the things Heather and I had ordered and we had a coffee and a chat.
Heather came home for lunch but Jon had a meeting. Heather has some really big bites on her legs and we are not sure what they are from but they are very swollen and itchy.
I managed to get a lot of housework done today and so all is clean and ready for Kirsty and James I just hope Heather keeps it like this while we are away.
I took Totty out for a walk this afternoon, it was too wet this morning so she only had one walk today. Heather and I were going to go out for a power walk when she got home but it started to spit again so we couldn't go.
Jon finally called to say he would be home for dinner. He thought he might be going out with some people who are here for a conference but he didn't feel like it. I hadn't prepared dinner so we just had to have something from the freezer.
We have been trying to plan Easter and Heather wants to go to Oz but it is going to cost a lot of money for a long weekend so we are looking at other options that will suit her and she won't be bored!
WEATHER
Very wet first thing, they cloudy and dry but heavy rain at night 22 degrees
Sunday, 20 March 2011
A trip to Hamilton
We had a little lie in this morning - 8.00! After breakfast we took Totty out and met Peter and Uppy in the park. Uppy was chasing his toy when Peter threw it into the water as the tide was in. He went swimming after it and Totty stood on the edge barking at him as if she was telling him to be careful. she went in a little way but not much.
When we got back we set off to go shopping to Hamilton. Heather wanted some new tops and Jon needs some shoes. We stopped near Cambridge for coffee and then arrived in Hamilton about 12.00. We wandered around the shops but didn't buy much - one pair of shorts for Heather.
We went to Burgerfuel for lunch which was very good. I had the healthy option of chicken in a small bun. It was very hot sitting in the street eating it.
After another quick walk around the shops we drove home.
When we got back I made the mix for the new giant cupcake mould we bought yesterday. Unfortunately, it doesn't tell you what size cake to make and so I made a three egg mix but it wasn't enough. The cake is very nice but the shape is not good not to mention the fact that it didn't come out of the silicone mould like it should have done. i think I feel a chocolate trifle coming on!
Jon did a bit of gardening and cut some of the tree that hangs over our drive and the birds sit in it and poop on my car! I made dinner then took Totty for a walk before we ate dinner.
Heather is very quiet tonight not sure why, she is very moody and up and down all the time!!
Our neighbours have arrived home from Australia so our peaceful week has come to an end, not that they make that much noise but it has been very quiet.
WEATHER
Another hot and sunny day 24 degrees
When we got back we set off to go shopping to Hamilton. Heather wanted some new tops and Jon needs some shoes. We stopped near Cambridge for coffee and then arrived in Hamilton about 12.00. We wandered around the shops but didn't buy much - one pair of shorts for Heather.
We went to Burgerfuel for lunch which was very good. I had the healthy option of chicken in a small bun. It was very hot sitting in the street eating it.
After another quick walk around the shops we drove home.
When we got back I made the mix for the new giant cupcake mould we bought yesterday. Unfortunately, it doesn't tell you what size cake to make and so I made a three egg mix but it wasn't enough. The cake is very nice but the shape is not good not to mention the fact that it didn't come out of the silicone mould like it should have done. i think I feel a chocolate trifle coming on!
Jon did a bit of gardening and cut some of the tree that hangs over our drive and the birds sit in it and poop on my car! I made dinner then took Totty for a walk before we ate dinner.
Heather is very quiet tonight not sure why, she is very moody and up and down all the time!!
Our neighbours have arrived home from Australia so our peaceful week has come to an end, not that they make that much noise but it has been very quiet.
WEATHER
Another hot and sunny day 24 degrees
Saturday, 19 March 2011
Saturday
After breakfast we took the dog for her walk down to Rotary Park. It was very quiet down there and the water was very calm.
Jon and I went out for coffee to Ozone and then to hit 100 balls at golf range. We did pretty well but it was very hot.
Heather went to have her hair colour done.
In the afternoon we went out with Tot and Heather to see our tile that we made at the Quarry at Te Puna. We found it very easily at the end of the path.
We got back and had a BBQ for dinner. It was a lovely evening, very mild, and we sat outside. But Heather got badly bitten.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
Jon and I went out for coffee to Ozone and then to hit 100 balls at golf range. We did pretty well but it was very hot.
Heather went to have her hair colour done.
In the afternoon we went out with Tot and Heather to see our tile that we made at the Quarry at Te Puna. We found it very easily at the end of the path.
We got back and had a BBQ for dinner. It was a lovely evening, very mild, and we sat outside. But Heather got badly bitten.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
Friday, 18 March 2011
Friday and we have residency and some welcome rain
I walked Tot before going to the Red Cross which was very busy as they have 50% off clothes. One lady bought $860 - 50% for a shop she has as she is going into dress hire.
I got home for lunch on my own as Jon and Heather went out for lunch together.
I got a text and email from Jon to say we have residency. Yeah at last Just need to send passports off and pay our $640 but we can't do that till we come back from Melbourne which will give us one day of our visa left so we made it by the skin of our teeth!!!
There was a bit of thunder around this afternoon and the dog was very unsettled and we had a heavy shower.
I took Totty out for her walk with Jon between showers but got caught in one and we had to run back!!! Yes I can still run!!!
Fish and chips tonight was very good.
Jane had left a message on the answerphone this morning so I called her tonight for a chat.
There is a very noisy party going on somewhere I hope it stops soon.
Well the rain started and it put paid to the party!
WEATHER
Hot and sunny all day 24 degrees welcome rain in the late evening.
I got home for lunch on my own as Jon and Heather went out for lunch together.
I got a text and email from Jon to say we have residency. Yeah at last Just need to send passports off and pay our $640 but we can't do that till we come back from Melbourne which will give us one day of our visa left so we made it by the skin of our teeth!!!
There was a bit of thunder around this afternoon and the dog was very unsettled and we had a heavy shower.
I took Totty out for her walk with Jon between showers but got caught in one and we had to run back!!! Yes I can still run!!!
Fish and chips tonight was very good.
Jane had left a message on the answerphone this morning so I called her tonight for a chat.
There is a very noisy party going on somewhere I hope it stops soon.
Well the rain started and it put paid to the party!
WEATHER
Hot and sunny all day 24 degrees welcome rain in the late evening.
Thursday, 17 March 2011
A wonderful massage
I took Tot out for her walk and we have another really lovely day.
I checked Kirsty's flight to see if they arrived on time in Sydney and they did.
I went to the tip again on my way for my massage with bottles and paper today, I can't fit all the boxes in my car in one trip. I had a hot sea stone massage which was so wonderful, I can't wait to go again!!! It was an hour and ten minutes of pure bliss. She had asked if I minded oil in my hair and I said no. When I had finished I looked like a pot of gel had been poured over my head!!
I went to the supermarket as I had to but my hair looked awful and I was glad I didn't meet anyone I knew.
Only Heather came home for lunch as Jon was in a board meeting.
I washed my hair after lunch as I needed to go out and buy more towels and couldn't go out looking like I was.
Got home and cooked a nice curry for dinner.
Heather went to play netball and came back really happy and is going out with Emma tomorrow night.
I am still catching up with my log.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
I checked Kirsty's flight to see if they arrived on time in Sydney and they did.
I went to the tip again on my way for my massage with bottles and paper today, I can't fit all the boxes in my car in one trip. I had a hot sea stone massage which was so wonderful, I can't wait to go again!!! It was an hour and ten minutes of pure bliss. She had asked if I minded oil in my hair and I said no. When I had finished I looked like a pot of gel had been poured over my head!!
I went to the supermarket as I had to but my hair looked awful and I was glad I didn't meet anyone I knew.
Only Heather came home for lunch as Jon was in a board meeting.
I washed my hair after lunch as I needed to go out and buy more towels and couldn't go out looking like I was.
Got home and cooked a nice curry for dinner.
Heather went to play netball and came back really happy and is going out with Emma tomorrow night.
I am still catching up with my log.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
Wednesday, 16 March 2011
Summer is going on so long!
I took
totty out for her walk. It is very exciting as Kirsty and James are now on their way!!
I went swimming and then for a coffee before going to have my hair done. Poor Dana still sounds full of cold.
On the way home I went to the tip to take all our recycling. We do seem to gather a lot of card and plastic.
I got home just in time for lunch and then did some washing in the afternoon.
I went for a walk with Tot and Heather.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny once again 25 degrees and warm evening
totty out for her walk. It is very exciting as Kirsty and James are now on their way!!
I went swimming and then for a coffee before going to have my hair done. Poor Dana still sounds full of cold.
On the way home I went to the tip to take all our recycling. We do seem to gather a lot of card and plastic.
I got home just in time for lunch and then did some washing in the afternoon.
I went for a walk with Tot and Heather.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny once again 25 degrees and warm evening
Tuesday, 15 March 2011
Tuesday
I took the dog for her walk and then went to keep fit and stayed for a coffee and chat.
I then went to the supermarket before going home for a shower as I had a hair appointment later.
When I got home there were two messages on the phone one saying the washing machine was ready and another from the hairdresser to say she was ill and couldn't do my hair.
I had to call to make a new hair appointment and got one for tomorrow and the washing machine will be brought back later today.
The washing machine arrived back and I was sorry to see the top loader go as I quite like it.
Bronwyn gave me a lovely bag of pears from her tree and then I came home and mad a cheese cake and a coconut slice cake.
I took Totty out for a walk with Heather then got back and cooked dinner.
I spent the evening trying to catch up with my blogging but I am so far behind.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 24 degrees
I then went to the supermarket before going home for a shower as I had a hair appointment later.
When I got home there were two messages on the phone one saying the washing machine was ready and another from the hairdresser to say she was ill and couldn't do my hair.
I had to call to make a new hair appointment and got one for tomorrow and the washing machine will be brought back later today.
The washing machine arrived back and I was sorry to see the top loader go as I quite like it.
Bronwyn gave me a lovely bag of pears from her tree and then I came home and mad a cheese cake and a coconut slice cake.
I took Totty out for a walk with Heather then got back and cooked dinner.
I spent the evening trying to catch up with my blogging but I am so far behind.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 24 degrees
Monday, 14 March 2011
Monday
My usual Monday starting with dog walk followed by washing, ironing and cleaning.
I went across to Alison's for a cuppa with her and Bronwyn.
I took Totty for her walk and then prepared the dinner.
Heather seems bright and cheerful today.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 24 degrees
I went across to Alison's for a cuppa with her and Bronwyn.
I took Totty for her walk and then prepared the dinner.
Heather seems bright and cheerful today.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 24 degrees
Sunday, 13 March 2011
A revealing day
You can take a horse to water but you can't make it drink! And that is what I feel today about Heather being here in NZ. We have done everything we can to help her settle but I think deep down she wants to go back to the UK and I really can't be bothered trying to talk her out of it and try and make her see what a chance she has. At the end of the day it is her life, her decision, and if she regrets it when she gets back then it will be her problem. We have done all we can.
Apart from the above we have had a good day. We took Totty out and then drove to Waihi to get the train to Waikino and then have a walk in the gorge. The train was delayed due to a car on the track - not sure why - and so we left late.
We had a good walk though Heather was complaining as her feet hurt - fashion over comfort- it's an age thing!!!!
Got back to the station and had lunch and waited for the train. After a pleasant though somewhat boring trip back we made our way to Tauranga and went to look for comfy shoes for Heather and found two pairs.
We then went to take her mobile phone back as it is not charging. She was given one on loan and we now have to wait for two weeks to find out what the problem is.
Got home and Jon cooked a BBQ while I took Totty out and Heather sat watching TV. I really feel like giving her a good shake.
Dinner was OK but Heather told us she did not want to do any of the things we planned for Easter and so we thought of going to Oz. I don't mind where we go but Heather thinks all things Kiwi are boring. Not sure what we will do for Easter but I honestly think the best thing she can do is go home with her friend who is due to come out in July. She will then realise, once she finds a job (if she is lucky) and settles into a normal UK work life that maybe life here in NZ had a lot going for it!!!
P***** off??? Yes, just a little.
WEATHER
Cloudy to begin and then warm and sunny 23 degrees.
Apart from the above we have had a good day. We took Totty out and then drove to Waihi to get the train to Waikino and then have a walk in the gorge. The train was delayed due to a car on the track - not sure why - and so we left late.
We had a good walk though Heather was complaining as her feet hurt - fashion over comfort- it's an age thing!!!!
Got back to the station and had lunch and waited for the train. After a pleasant though somewhat boring trip back we made our way to Tauranga and went to look for comfy shoes for Heather and found two pairs.
We then went to take her mobile phone back as it is not charging. She was given one on loan and we now have to wait for two weeks to find out what the problem is.
Got home and Jon cooked a BBQ while I took Totty out and Heather sat watching TV. I really feel like giving her a good shake.
Dinner was OK but Heather told us she did not want to do any of the things we planned for Easter and so we thought of going to Oz. I don't mind where we go but Heather thinks all things Kiwi are boring. Not sure what we will do for Easter but I honestly think the best thing she can do is go home with her friend who is due to come out in July. She will then realise, once she finds a job (if she is lucky) and settles into a normal UK work life that maybe life here in NZ had a lot going for it!!!
P***** off??? Yes, just a little.
WEATHER
Cloudy to begin and then warm and sunny 23 degrees.
Saturday, 12 March 2011
A busy day
First thing I did was put the TV on to see the news on Japan. So terrible and the pictures of the tsunami are just amazing. Poor people.
After my shower, which was very late, I had breakfast and made eggy bread for Heather.
I was just about to take Totty out when Jon arrived back from the airport so we went out together to the park.
When we got back we went for a coffee. Heather didn't come with us as she wanted to speak to the boy who bought her car as she saw on FB that he said it was broken. She has found out the head gasket is broken and feels really bad about it as it is going to cost a lot to have it repaired. We suggested that she reduce the payments for the car. She has already had £400 from him and was due another £400 at the end of next month which we think she was very lucky to get. She said she was thinking of doing that anyway. I think £600 would be a fairer price for the car anyway.
We went for coffee and had a walk around the town and when we got back Heather said she would like to take us out for lunch so off we went to The Mount. We had a nice lunch in a bar and then walked down to the beach. The National Surf Lifesavers Championships were on at the Mount. They had been quickly transferred from Christchurch after the quake but unfortunately, due to the tsunami warning people could not go into the water. It was a little rough but no more than some normal days.
We walked around the base track which I thought was still closed due to the slips after the awful rain they had when we were in the UK. We got nearly all the way around and then came across a sign which said 'No entry, threat of death' and there was a big slip so much to Heather's disgust we had to turn back.
We had a paddle in some rock pools on the way back which was nice and then we saw a wedding taking place on the beach. A Maori man was blowing a huge shell which sounded like a horn and it announced the arrival of the bride. It was all set out with chairs and ribbons and bows and the bride looked beautiful in a lovely dress. The bridesmaids all carried parasols, it was really pretty. The bride must have been in a real panic last night when she heard about the tsunami warning!
We walked back to the car and had an ice cream on the way and then we got home and had a cup of tea.
We decided to go out to see the stock car racing tonight so we had fish and chips as we missed it last night. I have had a very easy week for cooking this week.
The racing was a lot of fun and Heather really enjoyed it but you get covered in red dust from the track. Hopefully we can take Kirsty and James to a meeting as I think they would like it,too.
Back home by 10.00 and it is now time for bed.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny 26 degrees
After my shower, which was very late, I had breakfast and made eggy bread for Heather.
I was just about to take Totty out when Jon arrived back from the airport so we went out together to the park.
When we got back we went for a coffee. Heather didn't come with us as she wanted to speak to the boy who bought her car as she saw on FB that he said it was broken. She has found out the head gasket is broken and feels really bad about it as it is going to cost a lot to have it repaired. We suggested that she reduce the payments for the car. She has already had £400 from him and was due another £400 at the end of next month which we think she was very lucky to get. She said she was thinking of doing that anyway. I think £600 would be a fairer price for the car anyway.
We went for coffee and had a walk around the town and when we got back Heather said she would like to take us out for lunch so off we went to The Mount. We had a nice lunch in a bar and then walked down to the beach. The National Surf Lifesavers Championships were on at the Mount. They had been quickly transferred from Christchurch after the quake but unfortunately, due to the tsunami warning people could not go into the water. It was a little rough but no more than some normal days.
We walked around the base track which I thought was still closed due to the slips after the awful rain they had when we were in the UK. We got nearly all the way around and then came across a sign which said 'No entry, threat of death' and there was a big slip so much to Heather's disgust we had to turn back.
We had a paddle in some rock pools on the way back which was nice and then we saw a wedding taking place on the beach. A Maori man was blowing a huge shell which sounded like a horn and it announced the arrival of the bride. It was all set out with chairs and ribbons and bows and the bride looked beautiful in a lovely dress. The bridesmaids all carried parasols, it was really pretty. The bride must have been in a real panic last night when she heard about the tsunami warning!
We walked back to the car and had an ice cream on the way and then we got home and had a cup of tea.
We decided to go out to see the stock car racing tonight so we had fish and chips as we missed it last night. I have had a very easy week for cooking this week.
The racing was a lot of fun and Heather really enjoyed it but you get covered in red dust from the track. Hopefully we can take Kirsty and James to a meeting as I think they would like it,too.
Back home by 10.00 and it is now time for bed.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny 26 degrees
Friday, 11 March 2011
Dreadful news from Japan
Jon left to catch his flight at 6.30. I had breakfast and then took Tot for her walk and met Tricia. She told me she was planning a BBQ as a farewell party for her son, Cameron, who has been seconded from the NZ Navy to the UK Navy for 18 months. He is a lovely boy and I used to meet him, when he was home from uni, in the park when he was walking their dog and we used to chat about Spain as he was learning to speak Spanish. They did a whole pig roast last year but this year it is just a normal BBQ.
I went to the Red Cross and did my shift and had a call from Heather to say she had a migraine so I had to go and bring her home. She spent the afternoon in bed.
I saw Kim and she thanked me for the present for the children, she is just about packed to go off to Oz
I did my ironing
Huge crash outside, then a lot of shouting. Flynn had kicked his ball through the bedroom window and his dad was really angry, poor Flynn he seems to draw trouble like a magnet and seems to be always doing something wrong.
I went to get my washing in a bit later and Kim asked me if I had heard all the shouting!!! Poor girl they are trying to get ready to go on a first holiday abroad with the children and she was stressed anyway, Brent was late coming home from work and the kids were very excited and then Flynn kicked the ball through the window!! They had to get an emergency glazier who came in 15 minutes, charged a lot of money but at least he fixed the window. Flynn was sitting on his bed crying so he will be very subdued at the start of the holiday. I did see the car leaving a bit later as they were going to stay with her mum in Auckland so they could get to the airport at 4.00 on Saturday for their very early flight. I hope they have a good time and Flynn stays out of trouble.
We had Chinese tonight which was not very good and I wished we had stayed with our usual fish and chips.
We watched a film but Heather went to bed before the end and then came straight back up to tell me the news of the quake in Japan and the dreadful tsunami.
NZ is now on tsunami alert.
I hope Jon get back safely tomorrow
WEATHER
Beautiful day again 27 degrees
I went to the Red Cross and did my shift and had a call from Heather to say she had a migraine so I had to go and bring her home. She spent the afternoon in bed.
I saw Kim and she thanked me for the present for the children, she is just about packed to go off to Oz
I did my ironing
Huge crash outside, then a lot of shouting. Flynn had kicked his ball through the bedroom window and his dad was really angry, poor Flynn he seems to draw trouble like a magnet and seems to be always doing something wrong.
I went to get my washing in a bit later and Kim asked me if I had heard all the shouting!!! Poor girl they are trying to get ready to go on a first holiday abroad with the children and she was stressed anyway, Brent was late coming home from work and the kids were very excited and then Flynn kicked the ball through the window!! They had to get an emergency glazier who came in 15 minutes, charged a lot of money but at least he fixed the window. Flynn was sitting on his bed crying so he will be very subdued at the start of the holiday. I did see the car leaving a bit later as they were going to stay with her mum in Auckland so they could get to the airport at 4.00 on Saturday for their very early flight. I hope they have a good time and Flynn stays out of trouble.
We had Chinese tonight which was not very good and I wished we had stayed with our usual fish and chips.
We watched a film but Heather went to bed before the end and then came straight back up to tell me the news of the quake in Japan and the dreadful tsunami.
NZ is now on tsunami alert.
I hope Jon get back safely tomorrow
WEATHER
Beautiful day again 27 degrees
Thursday, 10 March 2011
A photo session
No rush today as nothing with appointments planned so a lazy morning.
I called my sister, Joyce, and we chatted for over an hour and she told me all about her new kitchen which sounds lovely and I look forward to seeing the pictures.
I then took Totty out and met Viv in the park with her dog Poppy. We sat on one of the benches and had a chat and then Bronwyn came along with Uppy and I walked back with her all very relaxing and so I didn't get to the supermarket.
Heather came home for lunch, Jon had a meeting so had a sandwich at the office.
After lunch I went in to Tauranga and bought yet another baby present, Busy Bee baby things, to send back to Jon's niece. I then went to do my shopping before going home.
I sorted out what I wanted to wear for the photos, fed Totty and took her out for a walk.
We all got ready for our photo session that I had booked on the GrabOne website and off we went.
I thought it was going to be a studio but the lady was waiting for us outside her house in a field and that is where she took the photos. It was a real giggle as she asked us to walk along the track ( Jon and I holding hands!!!) with Totty and chat amongst ourselves and she took photos. Only problem was
totty had been pulling on the lead and so started to choke. She then took some of Heather and then Jon and I and then all of us. I have no idea what they will be like but it was a good laugh.
We then went to order pizzas for dinner and had a drink in the pub while they cooked. We then went home very hungry and ate them.
Jon has to go to Whagarei tomorrow and is not happy about it as the only flight back is at 1.00 and he probably won't be finished in time and so will have to stay till Saturday.
WEATHER
Another bright and sunny day 24degrees
I called my sister, Joyce, and we chatted for over an hour and she told me all about her new kitchen which sounds lovely and I look forward to seeing the pictures.
I then took Totty out and met Viv in the park with her dog Poppy. We sat on one of the benches and had a chat and then Bronwyn came along with Uppy and I walked back with her all very relaxing and so I didn't get to the supermarket.
Heather came home for lunch, Jon had a meeting so had a sandwich at the office.
After lunch I went in to Tauranga and bought yet another baby present, Busy Bee baby things, to send back to Jon's niece. I then went to do my shopping before going home.
I sorted out what I wanted to wear for the photos, fed Totty and took her out for a walk.
We all got ready for our photo session that I had booked on the GrabOne website and off we went.
I thought it was going to be a studio but the lady was waiting for us outside her house in a field and that is where she took the photos. It was a real giggle as she asked us to walk along the track ( Jon and I holding hands!!!) with Totty and chat amongst ourselves and she took photos. Only problem was
totty had been pulling on the lead and so started to choke. She then took some of Heather and then Jon and I and then all of us. I have no idea what they will be like but it was a good laugh.
We then went to order pizzas for dinner and had a drink in the pub while they cooked. We then went home very hungry and ate them.
Jon has to go to Whagarei tomorrow and is not happy about it as the only flight back is at 1.00 and he probably won't be finished in time and so will have to stay till Saturday.
WEATHER
Another bright and sunny day 24degrees
Wednesday, 9 March 2011
Goodbye Angela
Jon went to work very early today as he had lots to do.
After walking the dog I went swimming. It is a beautiful day, I love this time of year not too hot and we are able to sleep at night.
Went for coffee with Les but had to get back as some college girls were coming to wash my car as they were fund raising.
The girls did an OK job on the car but I am glad we don't pay for our water on a meter as it would have cost a fortune!
After lunch I went to meet Angela to say goodbye as she has her parents here for one week and they are travelling around the North Island with them and then she has one week in Australia and then back to Korea. She is such a lovely girl and I will miss her and she says she is going to miss NZ and all her friends here very much.
I had a call this morning to say the washing machine company now had a loan machine to lend me and they would bring it this afternoon so I had to hurry to get back for 4.00.
The machine is a top loader, they are very popular here in NZ. It is very big and it is very nice to have a machine again.
Heather and I took the dog for a walk when she got home.
The little girl from next door, Petra, came to ask me to sponsor Greer, her younger sister for a trike ride at kindy.
WEATHER
Clear and sunny but a cold start again 23 degrees
After walking the dog I went swimming. It is a beautiful day, I love this time of year not too hot and we are able to sleep at night.
Went for coffee with Les but had to get back as some college girls were coming to wash my car as they were fund raising.
The girls did an OK job on the car but I am glad we don't pay for our water on a meter as it would have cost a fortune!
After lunch I went to meet Angela to say goodbye as she has her parents here for one week and they are travelling around the North Island with them and then she has one week in Australia and then back to Korea. She is such a lovely girl and I will miss her and she says she is going to miss NZ and all her friends here very much.
I had a call this morning to say the washing machine company now had a loan machine to lend me and they would bring it this afternoon so I had to hurry to get back for 4.00.
The machine is a top loader, they are very popular here in NZ. It is very big and it is very nice to have a machine again.
Heather and I took the dog for a walk when she got home.
The little girl from next door, Petra, came to ask me to sponsor Greer, her younger sister for a trike ride at kindy.
WEATHER
Clear and sunny but a cold start again 23 degrees
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Another new baby
Julie posted on FB this morning that baby Alfie had arrived safe and well, another nephew!!
I took Totty out and she heard the binman coming and she dragged me around the street. I have no idea why she does not like the binman!!!
I went to keep fit with Viv and we stayed for a coffee.
I had a shower when I got back and sat in sun for half an hour, really hot again.
Jon and Heather came home for lunch, Jon is feeling fine now and then I went to the supermarket.
I took
totty to the vet for her vaccinations and went to Rotary Park with her for a walk on the way back.
I had an early dinner as I had a Lions business meeting which I picked Janice up for.
WEATHER
Another cold start but quickly warmed up to 24 degrees
I took Totty out and she heard the binman coming and she dragged me around the street. I have no idea why she does not like the binman!!!
I went to keep fit with Viv and we stayed for a coffee.
I had a shower when I got back and sat in sun for half an hour, really hot again.
Jon and Heather came home for lunch, Jon is feeling fine now and then I went to the supermarket.
I took
totty to the vet for her vaccinations and went to Rotary Park with her for a walk on the way back.
I had an early dinner as I had a Lions business meeting which I picked Janice up for.
WEATHER
Another cold start but quickly warmed up to 24 degrees
Monday, 7 March 2011
A real nip in the air this morning
It was like waking in a different country this morning - it was so cold.
Jon not well but had to go to work as he had meetings to go to.
I took the dog out for her walk and met Bronwyn and Peter with the dogs and their little granddaughter who is so sweet. I was telling Peter about our golf and the lost balls and he said he would let me have some.
Peter brought us 24 golf balls as he said he has so many, he says they are not good ones but they are fine for us.
I took my washing next door and asked the nanny if I could put it in the washing machine. We had a chat and she said she would let me know when it was finished. Still no news about our machine.
It was really cold this morning but warm in the sun.
I did my usual Monday housework until Heather came home for lunch. She went back early as she was so busy.
Jon came home from his meetings and worked from home so I couldn't watch TV and do my ironing as he was making phone calls so I did more cleaning.
I sat in sun for an hour with a cup of tea and it was very hot.
I made dinner with leftover chicken and spinach which was very good and we had no complaints and clean plates.
Jon and I took Tot out later and it was chilly once the sun went down.
WEATHER
A real difference in the weather this morning - really cold. As the day went on it was really hot and reached 26 but down to 11 tonight
Jon not well but had to go to work as he had meetings to go to.
I took the dog out for her walk and met Bronwyn and Peter with the dogs and their little granddaughter who is so sweet. I was telling Peter about our golf and the lost balls and he said he would let me have some.
Peter brought us 24 golf balls as he said he has so many, he says they are not good ones but they are fine for us.
I took my washing next door and asked the nanny if I could put it in the washing machine. We had a chat and she said she would let me know when it was finished. Still no news about our machine.
It was really cold this morning but warm in the sun.
I did my usual Monday housework until Heather came home for lunch. She went back early as she was so busy.
Jon came home from his meetings and worked from home so I couldn't watch TV and do my ironing as he was making phone calls so I did more cleaning.
I sat in sun for an hour with a cup of tea and it was very hot.
I made dinner with leftover chicken and spinach which was very good and we had no complaints and clean plates.
Jon and I took Tot out later and it was chilly once the sun went down.
WEATHER
A real difference in the weather this morning - really cold. As the day went on it was really hot and reached 26 but down to 11 tonight
Sunday, 6 March 2011
Wet but still managed a round of golf
After much overnight rain we all managed a lie in this morning.
After breakfast Jon and I took
totty down to Rotary Park and had a nice walk but after yesterdays rain it was very wet under foot.
When we got back Heather was up but decide not to come out with us for coffee as she was waiting to speak to some friends in the UK.
Jon and I went up to Gate Pa for coffee and while it was warm when the sun poked through when it was behind the clouds it was very chilly.
After coffee we went to have a look at the public golf course on the Oropi Road. It looked nice and was very cheap and the man told us that in the afternoons it was not busy - just what we like.
We got home and after catching up with some emails it was lunchtime. We then went over to Papamoa to have a look around the shops as Heather wanted to and we needed to buy some meat for dinner.
When we got back we left Heather watching some of the awful American trash she enjoys and we went to play some golf. We really enjoyed it and had a lovely afternoon (I did feel a little bit guilty leaving Heather on her own though). We played as bad as we did last week but we really enjoyed it. Jon lost three balls and I lost one - there is a lot of water around this course!!!
We got home and Heather wanted dinner from the fish and chip shop so Jon took her along to order it and they had a drink along at the pub while they waited and I cooked a steak for Jon and I.
After dinner Jon said he was not feeling well and he did look very flushed so after some paracetamol he went off to bed and I continued on my blog.
I had a chat to Heather about her plans to stay here or go back to the UK. She says the job is not adding or helping with her work experience but I was trying to make her see that being in a different country may not add to work experience but it does add to life experience. I don't want her to leave here and then get back and regret it. But it is her choice and she will do what she wants.
WEATHER
Started very wet but ended sunny and 19 degrees
After breakfast Jon and I took
totty down to Rotary Park and had a nice walk but after yesterdays rain it was very wet under foot.
When we got back Heather was up but decide not to come out with us for coffee as she was waiting to speak to some friends in the UK.
Jon and I went up to Gate Pa for coffee and while it was warm when the sun poked through when it was behind the clouds it was very chilly.
After coffee we went to have a look at the public golf course on the Oropi Road. It looked nice and was very cheap and the man told us that in the afternoons it was not busy - just what we like.
We got home and after catching up with some emails it was lunchtime. We then went over to Papamoa to have a look around the shops as Heather wanted to and we needed to buy some meat for dinner.
When we got back we left Heather watching some of the awful American trash she enjoys and we went to play some golf. We really enjoyed it and had a lovely afternoon (I did feel a little bit guilty leaving Heather on her own though). We played as bad as we did last week but we really enjoyed it. Jon lost three balls and I lost one - there is a lot of water around this course!!!
We got home and Heather wanted dinner from the fish and chip shop so Jon took her along to order it and they had a drink along at the pub while they waited and I cooked a steak for Jon and I.
After dinner Jon said he was not feeling well and he did look very flushed so after some paracetamol he went off to bed and I continued on my blog.
I had a chat to Heather about her plans to stay here or go back to the UK. She says the job is not adding or helping with her work experience but I was trying to make her see that being in a different country may not add to work experience but it does add to life experience. I don't want her to leave here and then get back and regret it. But it is her choice and she will do what she wants.
WEATHER
Started very wet but ended sunny and 19 degrees
Saturday, 5 March 2011
Lots of rain and too much lunch
We woke to rain and it did not change all day - poor Totty did not get a walk.
Jon and I went out for coffee and then to the library. We managed to keep dry by walking under all the shop canopies. Jon spotted some nice cotton shirts on sale so we bought them and then went home.
We then went over to the Mount for Heather to have her hair cut.
We went for lunch while she was having it cut and found a Brazilian bar which was really good but too much. Jon had a 20cm burger in a huge bun. I had a wrap with spinach, ham and cheese and lots of garlic and it was very good.
We picked Heather up and took her to Mc Donald's for lunch so she was happy.
We were so full after out lunch we didn't really want any dinner but we ate it anyway!!! I will never shed this cream tea weight I put on in UK!!!
We had more rain and it was very hot.
WEATHER
Rain and more rain all day but humid 26 degrees.
Jon and I went out for coffee and then to the library. We managed to keep dry by walking under all the shop canopies. Jon spotted some nice cotton shirts on sale so we bought them and then went home.
We then went over to the Mount for Heather to have her hair cut.
We went for lunch while she was having it cut and found a Brazilian bar which was really good but too much. Jon had a 20cm burger in a huge bun. I had a wrap with spinach, ham and cheese and lots of garlic and it was very good.
We picked Heather up and took her to Mc Donald's for lunch so she was happy.
We were so full after out lunch we didn't really want any dinner but we ate it anyway!!! I will never shed this cream tea weight I put on in UK!!!
We had more rain and it was very hot.
WEATHER
Rain and more rain all day but humid 26 degrees.
Friday, 4 March 2011
A busy day and good news from the doctor
I rushed off to the shop after taking Totty for her walk. I didn't want to be late as I had to leave for my hospital appointment at 9.50.
I arrived for my appointment with a few minutes to spare and was called in quickly. i met Dr Mc Auley in the corridor and he greeted me like an old friend, he is very nice. He was asking me about our residency and he told me not to worry as he didn't think it would be denied due to this VIN3.
He examined me and said all was fine and I need to go back again in three months.
I went back to the shop and it was busy for the rest of the morning.
I got home for lunch but Heather and Jon went to Bayfair for lunch so it was just me.
I sat and caught up with some TV this afternoon and then took Totty out for her walk.
Heather and Jon went to the pub after work for Kelly's leaving do. Heather stayed and Michelle said she would bring her home later.
We had fish and chips for dinner.
Heather finaly came home at 10.30 and was brought home by Michelle's sister and she was quite drunk but happy and is planning to go out with the girls from the office again when we go to Melbourne.
WEATHER
Hot and humid with a few showers 24 degrees
I arrived for my appointment with a few minutes to spare and was called in quickly. i met Dr Mc Auley in the corridor and he greeted me like an old friend, he is very nice. He was asking me about our residency and he told me not to worry as he didn't think it would be denied due to this VIN3.
He examined me and said all was fine and I need to go back again in three months.
I went back to the shop and it was busy for the rest of the morning.
I got home for lunch but Heather and Jon went to Bayfair for lunch so it was just me.
I sat and caught up with some TV this afternoon and then took Totty out for her walk.
Heather and Jon went to the pub after work for Kelly's leaving do. Heather stayed and Michelle said she would bring her home later.
We had fish and chips for dinner.
Heather finaly came home at 10.30 and was brought home by Michelle's sister and she was quite drunk but happy and is planning to go out with the girls from the office again when we go to Melbourne.
WEATHER
Hot and humid with a few showers 24 degrees
Thursday, 3 March 2011
Thursday and no sign of my washing machine
I was up and showered early this morning even though I wasn't going anywhere.
I waited till 9.15 and called Viv to ask if I could take some washing along. I took Totty with me in the car and once I had put the washing on Viv and I took the dogs to the park. We met Peter with Uuppy and all the dogs had a good run and play. After walking around the park and all the way round the street with Viv we got back to her house and after a cup of coffee my first load of washing was finished and I took it home.
The washing machine repair people called to say that they had managed to find the part for the machine and it was going to be $460 to repair it which, she said was cheaper than the original quote. I told her to speak to Seleena as I could not make that decision.
I did a bit of housework and then went to the supermarket and did my shopping. On the way back I went to Viv's and collected my second load.
Got back in time to make the toasties to go with the soup I made yesterday. I know it is a bit hot for soup but it is a good way to get Heather to eat broccoli and with the toasties it was a good lunch. (Daily Mail recipe from when I was back in UK).
After lunch I brought all the washing in and ironed it. I then washed all the socks and knickers that I had put in soak, I really don't like taking my smalls to other people to wash.
Heather came home and I went with her to buy petrol as she doesn't like to go on her own yet but I think she will be fine next time and at least the man does it for you at our local BP.
Jon had an email from Seleena to say she was going to go ahead with the repair rather than buy a new one. I am not very happy about it as I won't have the machine back till next week!!! I just hope after spending all that money that nothing else goes wrong with it. She could nearly have bought a new one for a bit more money.
I cooked the dinner, roasted vegetables and some little lamb pastry swirl things that I had bought at Farmer Jones and they were very good.
And after a bit of TV it was time for bed.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
I waited till 9.15 and called Viv to ask if I could take some washing along. I took Totty with me in the car and once I had put the washing on Viv and I took the dogs to the park. We met Peter with Uuppy and all the dogs had a good run and play. After walking around the park and all the way round the street with Viv we got back to her house and after a cup of coffee my first load of washing was finished and I took it home.
The washing machine repair people called to say that they had managed to find the part for the machine and it was going to be $460 to repair it which, she said was cheaper than the original quote. I told her to speak to Seleena as I could not make that decision.
I did a bit of housework and then went to the supermarket and did my shopping. On the way back I went to Viv's and collected my second load.
Got back in time to make the toasties to go with the soup I made yesterday. I know it is a bit hot for soup but it is a good way to get Heather to eat broccoli and with the toasties it was a good lunch. (Daily Mail recipe from when I was back in UK).
After lunch I brought all the washing in and ironed it. I then washed all the socks and knickers that I had put in soak, I really don't like taking my smalls to other people to wash.
Heather came home and I went with her to buy petrol as she doesn't like to go on her own yet but I think she will be fine next time and at least the man does it for you at our local BP.
Jon had an email from Seleena to say she was going to go ahead with the repair rather than buy a new one. I am not very happy about it as I won't have the machine back till next week!!! I just hope after spending all that money that nothing else goes wrong with it. She could nearly have bought a new one for a bit more money.
I cooked the dinner, roasted vegetables and some little lamb pastry swirl things that I had bought at Farmer Jones and they were very good.
And after a bit of TV it was time for bed.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
Swimming and Lunch
I went out to my swimming class but didn't stay for coffee as I was going out for lunch with my keep fit group so had to get home for a shower and wash my hair.
I had a brainwave and phoned the hospital re the letter and asked to speak to a typist and managed to speak to an English secretary who does my consultant's typing. She was very helpful and told me the letter had been sent on 20 February to Immigration. She very kindly said she would fax a copy to them straight away. At last someone who knows what they are doing.
I picked up Margaret and Viv and we went over to a new council run club for lunch. It only opened in January and they are not on top of it yet and although we had a good time and the food, when it came, was good the service was pretty poor. However, our table really enjoyed it and we laughed and people said they wished they were on our table could have been the fact that we were all English and have the same sense of humour!
I walked the dog when I got back and got caught in a shower of rain.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees and a shower and humid in the afternoon.
I had a brainwave and phoned the hospital re the letter and asked to speak to a typist and managed to speak to an English secretary who does my consultant's typing. She was very helpful and told me the letter had been sent on 20 February to Immigration. She very kindly said she would fax a copy to them straight away. At last someone who knows what they are doing.
I picked up Margaret and Viv and we went over to a new council run club for lunch. It only opened in January and they are not on top of it yet and although we had a good time and the food, when it came, was good the service was pretty poor. However, our table really enjoyed it and we laughed and people said they wished they were on our table could have been the fact that we were all English and have the same sense of humour!
I walked the dog when I got back and got caught in a shower of rain.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees and a shower and humid in the afternoon.
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Still no washing machine
Heather was still not well so didn't go to work today.
I took Totty out for her walk and then went to pick up Viv for keep fit and dropped my washing off at the same time.
We had a good class and Viv enjoyed it and we had a coffee and chat after the class. It was so hot and we were all ready to go home and have a shower.
I took Viv home and brought home my washing. Heather was still in bed and so I did my ironing and then Jon came home for lunch
More ironing in the afternoon and it was all done till I bring the washing in from the line!
I still haven't had a letter from consultant for the Immigration Dept.
I bought a studio sitting for photos before Christmas on my GrabOne sight which was very cheap. So I booked it for later this month.
I took Heather to the health shop to buy some pills to see if it helps her period pains.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny but cooler at night 26 degrees
I took Totty out for her walk and then went to pick up Viv for keep fit and dropped my washing off at the same time.
We had a good class and Viv enjoyed it and we had a coffee and chat after the class. It was so hot and we were all ready to go home and have a shower.
I took Viv home and brought home my washing. Heather was still in bed and so I did my ironing and then Jon came home for lunch
More ironing in the afternoon and it was all done till I bring the washing in from the line!
I still haven't had a letter from consultant for the Immigration Dept.
I bought a studio sitting for photos before Christmas on my GrabOne sight which was very cheap. So I booked it for later this month.
I took Heather to the health shop to buy some pills to see if it helps her period pains.
WEATHER
Hot and sunny but cooler at night 26 degrees
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