We were all late up this morning to what we usually are. After breakfast Jon and I took Totty down to Rotary Park.
We just popped down to Palmers Garden Centre for coffee today.
When we got back Jon went across to get the ladder from Doug and fortunately he managed to reach the top and fix the downpipe to the gutter.
I saw Kim from next door while I was holding the ladder and we had a chat about the wedding, she thought it was lovely, too.
We had quite a lazy day all in all. A neighbour we met the other week at the leaving do we went to for Cameron called round to invite Heather round to meet his daughter who, works in Auckland but was down for the weekend. Heather went round and had a chat with her but felt a bit uncomfortable as she felt the girl had been put on the spot. They exchanged numbers so we will see what happens.
After lunch Heather and I went down to Fraser Cove shopping and got back too late for a cup of tea!!
I did some BBQ steak for dinner and Heather had chicken. Heather is not going out as Emma has not called her.
I was so tired after not too much to drink and the late night so an early night was called for.
WEATHER
Beautiful sunny day 22 degrees
Saturday, 30 April 2011
Friday, 29 April 2011
A right royal wedding
I didn't get to do my blog today as I was so busy watching the Royal Wedding.
I went to the Red Cross in the morning and remember we were busy and lots of people came in for outfits to wear at 'Wedding Parties'. They seem to have enjoyed the wedding as much here as in the UK.
We had our usual Friday night fish and chips.
Heather and I started watching it at about 9.00 pm and it went on till the early hours of the morning. Jon went to bed at 11.00, Heather at about 1.00 and I finally went at 2.30. It was really lovely and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 20 degrees
I went to the Red Cross in the morning and remember we were busy and lots of people came in for outfits to wear at 'Wedding Parties'. They seem to have enjoyed the wedding as much here as in the UK.
We had our usual Friday night fish and chips.
Heather and I started watching it at about 9.00 pm and it went on till the early hours of the morning. Jon went to bed at 11.00, Heather at about 1.00 and I finally went at 2.30. It was really lovely and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 20 degrees
Thursday, 28 April 2011
My new passport
I rang Mary this morning and we had a long chat as she wasn't at work so we caught up with so much news.
By the time I got out it was late to walk Tot but she enjoyed it just the same.
I had a card left at the house yesterday to say I needed to go to the PO to sign for a letter and as I suspected it was my new passport. It has only taken a week or so. Sad to see no stamps in this one. My old one is by far the best passort I have ever had for stamps. I will have to get busy filling this one up over the next ten years!! Next step is to get my new visa transferred - more money I suspect.
I then went to do my supermarket shopping and had a coffee.
Jon has a board meeting today and Heather needs a hot lunch as her netball game is a late one tonight.
I saw Alison this afternoon and asked her if Doug can lend us a ladder to fix drainpipe which has come away from the joint and the rain is just pouring down and makes such a noise. Jon will get it over the weekend and hopefully it will reach the top of the house.
We ran out of gas at lunchtime and as the valve is faulty we need to buy a new bottle so Jon will collect one on the way home from work.
I spent the afternoon putting lots of of photos on FB and caught up with Corrie.
As it was just Jon and I for dinner we had a nice steak with salad.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 20 degrees
By the time I got out it was late to walk Tot but she enjoyed it just the same.
I had a card left at the house yesterday to say I needed to go to the PO to sign for a letter and as I suspected it was my new passport. It has only taken a week or so. Sad to see no stamps in this one. My old one is by far the best passort I have ever had for stamps. I will have to get busy filling this one up over the next ten years!! Next step is to get my new visa transferred - more money I suspect.
I then went to do my supermarket shopping and had a coffee.
Jon has a board meeting today and Heather needs a hot lunch as her netball game is a late one tonight.
I saw Alison this afternoon and asked her if Doug can lend us a ladder to fix drainpipe which has come away from the joint and the rain is just pouring down and makes such a noise. Jon will get it over the weekend and hopefully it will reach the top of the house.
We ran out of gas at lunchtime and as the valve is faulty we need to buy a new bottle so Jon will collect one on the way home from work.
I spent the afternoon putting lots of of photos on FB and caught up with Corrie.
As it was just Jon and I for dinner we had a nice steak with salad.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 20 degrees
Wednesday, 27 April 2011
Jane and Jason have bought a house
After the awful weather yesterday it was very nice to see no rain this morning and no wind though they have had a terrible time down in Hawke's Bay and Taupo and have no power.
Jane had put on Facebook that she had put an offer in on a house so I gave her a call to find out what was going on. They have made an offer and it has been accepted so they are both very excited and happy. I had a quick word with Kirsty and she sounds happy, too, James in in Brussels and she was reading a wedding magazine with Jason!!!!
I was too late to take Tot out so had to rush off to my class. It was OK but not the teacher I like best. We then went for coffee and I was talking to Les and she told me her mother in law had died. She thought I knew but it was when I was in Melbourne so I obviously missed that, she was old and not very well so a bit of a relief.
I came home and we had pumpkin soup for lunch and then I did some washing and a few bit around the house and took Tot out.
I then spent the whole afternoon typing up my blog I am nearly up to date again.
We had a nice chicken casserole for dinner and apple pie to follow.
WEATHER
Sunny spells with cloud 20 degrees
Jane had put on Facebook that she had put an offer in on a house so I gave her a call to find out what was going on. They have made an offer and it has been accepted so they are both very excited and happy. I had a quick word with Kirsty and she sounds happy, too, James in in Brussels and she was reading a wedding magazine with Jason!!!!
I was too late to take Tot out so had to rush off to my class. It was OK but not the teacher I like best. We then went for coffee and I was talking to Les and she told me her mother in law had died. She thought I knew but it was when I was in Melbourne so I obviously missed that, she was old and not very well so a bit of a relief.
I came home and we had pumpkin soup for lunch and then I did some washing and a few bit around the house and took Tot out.
I then spent the whole afternoon typing up my blog I am nearly up to date again.
We had a nice chicken casserole for dinner and apple pie to follow.
WEATHER
Sunny spells with cloud 20 degrees
Tuesday, 26 April 2011
Terrible weather
I could easily have gone back to sleep this morning. After a terrible night of very strong wind and lots of rain I hadn't really slept well.
It was far too wet to take Tot out so after my shower I caught up with some emails till it was time to go to my class.
Really enjoyed the class this morning, not many there as it is still the school holidays but a nice coffee after the class.
I then went to the supermarket and bought what I need, hopefully, for the rest of the week. I need to stop going to the supermarket so often!!
Came home and made some pumpkin soup for lunch tomorrow and then cooked tuna cakes for our lunch in between doing the washing and having to use the dryer or I will never get it dried outside.
After lunch I did all my ironing while I caught up with Neighbours.
I took Tot out for a walk and then got ready for my Lions meeting and went to pick Janice up.
We had a really good dinner tonight with the most delicious fish pie and roast pork with lovely crispy roasted vegetables. Pudding was a sticky date pudding with butterscotch sauce, fresh berry pavlova and fresh fruit salad all really, really nice but I only had the fruit salad and the sticky date pudding and was then fit to burst.
Got home and caught up with more Facebook photos and emails.
WEATHER
Heavy showers off and on all day and very windy 18 degrees
It was far too wet to take Tot out so after my shower I caught up with some emails till it was time to go to my class.
Really enjoyed the class this morning, not many there as it is still the school holidays but a nice coffee after the class.
I then went to the supermarket and bought what I need, hopefully, for the rest of the week. I need to stop going to the supermarket so often!!
Came home and made some pumpkin soup for lunch tomorrow and then cooked tuna cakes for our lunch in between doing the washing and having to use the dryer or I will never get it dried outside.
After lunch I did all my ironing while I caught up with Neighbours.
I took Tot out for a walk and then got ready for my Lions meeting and went to pick Janice up.
We had a really good dinner tonight with the most delicious fish pie and roast pork with lovely crispy roasted vegetables. Pudding was a sticky date pudding with butterscotch sauce, fresh berry pavlova and fresh fruit salad all really, really nice but I only had the fruit salad and the sticky date pudding and was then fit to burst.
Got home and caught up with more Facebook photos and emails.
WEATHER
Heavy showers off and on all day and very windy 18 degrees
Sunday, 24 April 2011
Good Friday, Saturday and Easter Sunday
We got up and after breakfast we had a chat to J, K and J and watched while they opened the present we had sent to them for Easter which went down a storm.
After packing up and securing the house it was time to take Tot to kennels. I hate leaving her as she always looks so sad and won't walk and the kennel maid has to pick her up and carry her.
We set off and our first stop was Whangamata (fangamatar) for coffee. They hold a big 50s theme festival with music and dance and it sounds a lot of fun and we might head up there next March and see how it is. We then went to play mini golf and we had a short shower of rain but it was good fun and I don't think the golf lessons have helped Jon and I as Heather won! We went to the bakery and bough lunch and went to sit down near beach to eat it which was very pleasant.
We then set off on the very windy drive to Tairua where we had a motel booked. It was probably just as well we didn't bring Kirsty and James up here as I think the drive would have been very uncomfortable with three in the back of the car and I think Kirsty might have felt a bit poorly!!
We checked in to our motel and were pleasantly surprised as it was very nice and well equipped and in a nice location. We drove to Puku Hill and then took a walk up to the top and had some lovely views in all directions. Such a pretty part of the coast.
We got back to the motel and had a cuppa and I had a little sleep and then it was time for dinner so Jon went out and bought fish and chips and a pumpkin and spinach pattie and a corn fritter and it was all very nice and relaxed.
Saturday
After a good sleep and we didn't wake up through the night which is a bonus when sleeping in hotels, we went across the road and had a really good breakfast. I had fruit an muesli and Jon and Heather had cooked breakfast which was all fresh and cooked well.
We set off on to the next leg of our journey and went to see Cooks beach which was pretty and then on to Ferry Landings. Jon and I walked up to the top of another hill and it was so pretty and it would have been nice to have a picnic lunch up there. Heather waited at the bottom!!!
We then drove to Cathedral Cove but the car park was full and we would have had a long walk up to the top so we decided to leave it.
We then drove to Haehi and had a look at the beach and then carried on to Hotwater beach and had lunch at a lovely spot and played with some beautiful Jack Russel puppies that one of the 'regulars' was selling.
We then went down to the beach and after hiring a spade dug a hole with the other many people down there until we got some hot water and it was REALLY hot. Amazing to think you can get such hot water from under the sand.
After cleaning our feet we then went on to Whitinga for our next stop. We arrived when it was just getting dark but we found ourselves staying in a lovely house, very modern and well equipped so we decided to buy some food and cook it and stay in for the night as we were so tired.
We went into the town and found a Newworld supermarket and bought some steak for dinner and salad and pizza for Heather. It was not very successful as the steak was not very good (Jon cooked it not me) and Heather did not like her pizza. The wine was good though!
Sunday
After breakfast we checked out and went to the Lost Spring for a swim. Jon had a coffee in the bar there and Heather and I enjoyed going round the various pools, some of which were very hot and some were made to look like caves with glow worms all very nice and I could have spent the day there and enjoyed more of the facilities - massage, beauty treatments, lunch wine and so much more.
We then set off to Coromandel Town and our next stop. On the way we stopped for lunch at Kutunu where we had stopped two years ago at a 'hippy' caravan and had a lovely lunch. The road is very bendy and the drive took a long time but was very pretty.
We arrived at the motel and checked in earlier than we had thought and so tried to get on the Driving Creek Railway but it was all full so we will have to go on tomorrow as booked.
The forecast was not looking good for the next day but we couldn't do much about it so set off on the Road 309 and went to the Waterworks which is a NZ theme park!!!! Not up to UK standards but we had a really good time trying out the various water puzzles and games. They have a mouse wheel there and we all tried it and laughed so much I cried not to mention fell over. I now have the greatest admiration for hamsters - how do they go round so fast on those wheels????
After the park we continued on the road to the waterfalls which were very pretty and then on to the Kauri track only to find that it was closed due to a slip so Heather still hasn't seen a Kauri tree!!!
We then went back to the motel for a cuppa and hot cross bun and managed to hook up to the Internet at last!
We went out for dinner into the town and found a really nice place and had a lovely meal.
We were more than ready for bed by the time we got back to the motel and hopefully a good night's sleep.
WEATHER
Friday a few showers 19 degrees
Saturday warm and sunny 21 degrees
Sunday warm and sunny but cloudy later with a few showers 20 degrees
After packing up and securing the house it was time to take Tot to kennels. I hate leaving her as she always looks so sad and won't walk and the kennel maid has to pick her up and carry her.
We set off and our first stop was Whangamata (fangamatar) for coffee. They hold a big 50s theme festival with music and dance and it sounds a lot of fun and we might head up there next March and see how it is. We then went to play mini golf and we had a short shower of rain but it was good fun and I don't think the golf lessons have helped Jon and I as Heather won! We went to the bakery and bough lunch and went to sit down near beach to eat it which was very pleasant.
We then set off on the very windy drive to Tairua where we had a motel booked. It was probably just as well we didn't bring Kirsty and James up here as I think the drive would have been very uncomfortable with three in the back of the car and I think Kirsty might have felt a bit poorly!!
We checked in to our motel and were pleasantly surprised as it was very nice and well equipped and in a nice location. We drove to Puku Hill and then took a walk up to the top and had some lovely views in all directions. Such a pretty part of the coast.
We got back to the motel and had a cuppa and I had a little sleep and then it was time for dinner so Jon went out and bought fish and chips and a pumpkin and spinach pattie and a corn fritter and it was all very nice and relaxed.
Saturday
After a good sleep and we didn't wake up through the night which is a bonus when sleeping in hotels, we went across the road and had a really good breakfast. I had fruit an muesli and Jon and Heather had cooked breakfast which was all fresh and cooked well.
We set off on to the next leg of our journey and went to see Cooks beach which was pretty and then on to Ferry Landings. Jon and I walked up to the top of another hill and it was so pretty and it would have been nice to have a picnic lunch up there. Heather waited at the bottom!!!
We then drove to Cathedral Cove but the car park was full and we would have had a long walk up to the top so we decided to leave it.
We then drove to Haehi and had a look at the beach and then carried on to Hotwater beach and had lunch at a lovely spot and played with some beautiful Jack Russel puppies that one of the 'regulars' was selling.
We then went down to the beach and after hiring a spade dug a hole with the other many people down there until we got some hot water and it was REALLY hot. Amazing to think you can get such hot water from under the sand.
After cleaning our feet we then went on to Whitinga for our next stop. We arrived when it was just getting dark but we found ourselves staying in a lovely house, very modern and well equipped so we decided to buy some food and cook it and stay in for the night as we were so tired.
We went into the town and found a Newworld supermarket and bought some steak for dinner and salad and pizza for Heather. It was not very successful as the steak was not very good (Jon cooked it not me) and Heather did not like her pizza. The wine was good though!
Sunday
After breakfast we checked out and went to the Lost Spring for a swim. Jon had a coffee in the bar there and Heather and I enjoyed going round the various pools, some of which were very hot and some were made to look like caves with glow worms all very nice and I could have spent the day there and enjoyed more of the facilities - massage, beauty treatments, lunch wine and so much more.
We then set off to Coromandel Town and our next stop. On the way we stopped for lunch at Kutunu where we had stopped two years ago at a 'hippy' caravan and had a lovely lunch. The road is very bendy and the drive took a long time but was very pretty.
We arrived at the motel and checked in earlier than we had thought and so tried to get on the Driving Creek Railway but it was all full so we will have to go on tomorrow as booked.
The forecast was not looking good for the next day but we couldn't do much about it so set off on the Road 309 and went to the Waterworks which is a NZ theme park!!!! Not up to UK standards but we had a really good time trying out the various water puzzles and games. They have a mouse wheel there and we all tried it and laughed so much I cried not to mention fell over. I now have the greatest admiration for hamsters - how do they go round so fast on those wheels????
After the park we continued on the road to the waterfalls which were very pretty and then on to the Kauri track only to find that it was closed due to a slip so Heather still hasn't seen a Kauri tree!!!
We then went back to the motel for a cuppa and hot cross bun and managed to hook up to the Internet at last!
We went out for dinner into the town and found a really nice place and had a lovely meal.
We were more than ready for bed by the time we got back to the motel and hopefully a good night's sleep.
WEATHER
Friday a few showers 19 degrees
Saturday warm and sunny 21 degrees
Sunday warm and sunny but cloudy later with a few showers 20 degrees
Thursday, 21 April 2011
Pesky electricity
We have been without electricity four times today!! We woke to find it had gone off and eventually came back on at about 7.15 in time for Heather to dry her hair.
I called Roz after breakfast and had a chat before taking Tot out for a walk and really only just in time as it started to rain just as I got back.to find the washing machine had stopped somewhere in the cycle and we had no power again!
I shortened some jeans and did a few bit and bobs of packing and waited for the electricity to come back.
Jon and heather came home for lunch, beans on toast and I am glad to say the power stayed on.
After lunch it went off again so I went to the supermarket and the tip to get rid of the many, many plastic bottles accumulated when K & J were here.
Back home and we had power and I had to use the dryer as it was by now raining heavily and no chance of getting anything dry outside.
I had trouble getting the TV to work as the power failures must have done something to it. I finally got it working in time for the 6.00 news and so I had done my ironing without being able to watch TV.
We had Mexican for dinner tonight and then I got things ready to take with us. We need food to take as the shops are closed on Friday and Sunday and Monday morning for Anzac Day. Eating out is more expensive, too as they add a surcharge for bank holidays so we will be having takeaways which will be cheaper for Heather, too.
Off to bed now so that I get up early for our early start tomorrow.
WEATHER
Bright to start then drizzle followed by heavy rain 18 degrees
I called Roz after breakfast and had a chat before taking Tot out for a walk and really only just in time as it started to rain just as I got back.to find the washing machine had stopped somewhere in the cycle and we had no power again!
I shortened some jeans and did a few bit and bobs of packing and waited for the electricity to come back.
Jon and heather came home for lunch, beans on toast and I am glad to say the power stayed on.
After lunch it went off again so I went to the supermarket and the tip to get rid of the many, many plastic bottles accumulated when K & J were here.
Back home and we had power and I had to use the dryer as it was by now raining heavily and no chance of getting anything dry outside.
I had trouble getting the TV to work as the power failures must have done something to it. I finally got it working in time for the 6.00 news and so I had done my ironing without being able to watch TV.
We had Mexican for dinner tonight and then I got things ready to take with us. We need food to take as the shops are closed on Friday and Sunday and Monday morning for Anzac Day. Eating out is more expensive, too as they add a surcharge for bank holidays so we will be having takeaways which will be cheaper for Heather, too.
Off to bed now so that I get up early for our early start tomorrow.
WEATHER
Bright to start then drizzle followed by heavy rain 18 degrees
Wednesday, 20 April 2011
Back to my swimming class
I went out for a quick walk with Tot before going to my swimming class. It was good as there was no traffic as it is school holidays.
It was a very good class but I knew I had missed three weeks! We went for coffee after the class and then I went to the hairdressers for a cut and blow dry.
I got home for lunch with Heather but Jon had another meeting.
I went to pick up the CD of the photos taken five weeks ago and then on to Red Cross to look for trousers for Heather, bought loads of things for autumn and a a few things for Bronwyn to try.
It was then to Number 1 Shoes to buy new doggie walking shoes and trainers what a day.
I stopped by to wish Bronwyn a happy trip to Oz.
Home for a cuppa and to try on my clothes and they are all pretty good.
Heather got home early so we took Tot out together.
I cooked dinner and had a look at photos, some good ones but not many.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny but a bit windy 21 degrees
It was a very good class but I knew I had missed three weeks! We went for coffee after the class and then I went to the hairdressers for a cut and blow dry.
I got home for lunch with Heather but Jon had another meeting.
I went to pick up the CD of the photos taken five weeks ago and then on to Red Cross to look for trousers for Heather, bought loads of things for autumn and a a few things for Bronwyn to try.
It was then to Number 1 Shoes to buy new doggie walking shoes and trainers what a day.
I stopped by to wish Bronwyn a happy trip to Oz.
Home for a cuppa and to try on my clothes and they are all pretty good.
Heather got home early so we took Tot out together.
I cooked dinner and had a look at photos, some good ones but not many.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny but a bit windy 21 degrees
Tuesday, 19 April 2011
A very long walk and a cold morning!!!
It was so cold when we woke this morning and for the first time there was condensation on the inside of the windows.
I took Totty out for her walk and then went off to my keep fit class. We had a good class but there were not many people there, they must be away for the holidays. It was the last class for Ros who is back to the UK on Sunday. She will be back again in October. I stayed for a coffee and a chat and was talking to a lady about a place in the Coromandel that she said we should visit when we go up there for Easter. The Lost Spring.
Got home and had a shower and cleaned the bathrooms and then did lunch for Heather and I. Jon has a meeting so won't be home.
After lunch I went to pick Alison up and we went down to Otomotei and walked for two hours along the foreshore and it was lovely. A bit of a cool wind but very sunny. We then went for a piece of carrot cake and a cup of tea. Alison told me that the people who had the party the other night are going to be evicted. The owner was not impressed and had told them 'no' parties. Her dad was called by one of the neighbours on the night it happened and sat in his car down the road and saw it all including people jumping over the fence, which is about five foot, and so I suppose that is how the little tree was damaged. Bronwyn said she also saw them urinating on the fence so not very nice. They will be sorry when she tells them to leave. She needs tenants like us!!!
When I got back I felt really tired so I fed Tot and had a bit of a sit down before taking her for her afternoon walk.
When I got back Heather was home and I started the dinner. I had intended to cook fish but it was still very frozen so we had to have spag bol instead.
Jon came home from the gym and couldn't find the garage door opener so took ages looking for it and eventually found it in his pocket so by the time he had showered and we sat down the garlic bread was crisper than it should have been, never mind.
Heather has now enjoyed two meal in a row!!
WEATHER
A very cold start but warmer and sunny later 18 degrees
I took Totty out for her walk and then went off to my keep fit class. We had a good class but there were not many people there, they must be away for the holidays. It was the last class for Ros who is back to the UK on Sunday. She will be back again in October. I stayed for a coffee and a chat and was talking to a lady about a place in the Coromandel that she said we should visit when we go up there for Easter. The Lost Spring.
Got home and had a shower and cleaned the bathrooms and then did lunch for Heather and I. Jon has a meeting so won't be home.
After lunch I went to pick Alison up and we went down to Otomotei and walked for two hours along the foreshore and it was lovely. A bit of a cool wind but very sunny. We then went for a piece of carrot cake and a cup of tea. Alison told me that the people who had the party the other night are going to be evicted. The owner was not impressed and had told them 'no' parties. Her dad was called by one of the neighbours on the night it happened and sat in his car down the road and saw it all including people jumping over the fence, which is about five foot, and so I suppose that is how the little tree was damaged. Bronwyn said she also saw them urinating on the fence so not very nice. They will be sorry when she tells them to leave. She needs tenants like us!!!
When I got back I felt really tired so I fed Tot and had a bit of a sit down before taking her for her afternoon walk.
When I got back Heather was home and I started the dinner. I had intended to cook fish but it was still very frozen so we had to have spag bol instead.
Jon came home from the gym and couldn't find the garage door opener so took ages looking for it and eventually found it in his pocket so by the time he had showered and we sat down the garlic bread was crisper than it should have been, never mind.
Heather has now enjoyed two meal in a row!!
WEATHER
A very cold start but warmer and sunny later 18 degrees
Monday, 18 April 2011
A very cold day
It was sunny to start and I should really have taken Totty out first thing instead of writing emails. By the time I did get out and half way round our walk the clouds came over very fast and we got caught in a heavy shower and unfortunately Totty is not good at running these days so we got wet.
It has turned quite cold today and we have a SW wind blowing which has brought snow to the desert road which is about three hours away from here and so we get the tail end of it. The forecast for tomorrow is better so fingers crossed.
I spent the rest of the morning clearing away things that have become untidy over the last couple of weeks and we are just about back to normal now.
Jon and Heather came home and we had broccoli soup and cheese toasties for lunch.
I took all my passport paperwork down to the post office this afternoon to re new my passport. The post office checks it and then sends it down to Wellington and I have to pay $334 about £170 for my new one. I will no doubt have to pay more to have my new visa transferred too!!!!
I went to the supermarket to buy an Easter egg for Heather as we go away on Friday so thought I ought to get that done.
I got back and took Tot out for a quick walk and then came back and did some ironing and made a very nice sausage and pasta dish for dinner. Heather loved it and said it was the best meal she has had since coming here. I think the chocolate and caramel tart for pudding helped.
I had an email from Kirsty to say she as at the airport and had a lovely time and they did the bridge walk and she enjoyed it. We gave her some money for her birthday to buy an opal when she was in Sydney and she told me she has a lovely blue one and is very happy with it.
They will be on their way to Singapore now and well into the champagne I should think!!
WEATHER
Cold and blustery with heavy showers 16 degrees.
It has turned quite cold today and we have a SW wind blowing which has brought snow to the desert road which is about three hours away from here and so we get the tail end of it. The forecast for tomorrow is better so fingers crossed.
I spent the rest of the morning clearing away things that have become untidy over the last couple of weeks and we are just about back to normal now.
Jon and Heather came home and we had broccoli soup and cheese toasties for lunch.
I took all my passport paperwork down to the post office this afternoon to re new my passport. The post office checks it and then sends it down to Wellington and I have to pay $334 about £170 for my new one. I will no doubt have to pay more to have my new visa transferred too!!!!
I went to the supermarket to buy an Easter egg for Heather as we go away on Friday so thought I ought to get that done.
I got back and took Tot out for a quick walk and then came back and did some ironing and made a very nice sausage and pasta dish for dinner. Heather loved it and said it was the best meal she has had since coming here. I think the chocolate and caramel tart for pudding helped.
I had an email from Kirsty to say she as at the airport and had a lovely time and they did the bridge walk and she enjoyed it. We gave her some money for her birthday to buy an opal when she was in Sydney and she told me she has a lovely blue one and is very happy with it.
They will be on their way to Singapore now and well into the champagne I should think!!
WEATHER
Cold and blustery with heavy showers 16 degrees.
Sunday, 17 April 2011
Sunday with the neighbours
We had a late start this morning due to a late night last night.
I too Tot out on my own as Jon was still in bed.
We went out for coffee and Jon had breakfast, I drove as I am sure Jon was still over the limit!
When we got back I brought the washing in as it looked like rain but it didn't.
We went to Tricia and Ross' for Cameron's leaving 'do'. They were drinking champagne, which is lovely but they were also eating oysters which was not so lovely. I used to enjoy them but I really can't face them now and Heather certainly didn't want to try. Cameron was really nice and chatted to Heather but all the other young people knew each other so it was a bit hard for her to break into a conversation with them. We had some nice kebabs and rack of lamb and a very nice cake. It was nice for Jon and I to chat with the neighbours but not so much for Heather.
We went home to feed Tot and then took her for a walk, still no rain.
I made pizza for dinner and we ate it watching TV!! On our laps!!
WE caught up with Corrie and then went to bed.
WEATHER
Cloudy with the odd shower 21 degrees
I too Tot out on my own as Jon was still in bed.
We went out for coffee and Jon had breakfast, I drove as I am sure Jon was still over the limit!
When we got back I brought the washing in as it looked like rain but it didn't.
We went to Tricia and Ross' for Cameron's leaving 'do'. They were drinking champagne, which is lovely but they were also eating oysters which was not so lovely. I used to enjoy them but I really can't face them now and Heather certainly didn't want to try. Cameron was really nice and chatted to Heather but all the other young people knew each other so it was a bit hard for her to break into a conversation with them. We had some nice kebabs and rack of lamb and a very nice cake. It was nice for Jon and I to chat with the neighbours but not so much for Heather.
We went home to feed Tot and then took her for a walk, still no rain.
I made pizza for dinner and we ate it watching TV!! On our laps!!
WE caught up with Corrie and then went to bed.
WEATHER
Cloudy with the odd shower 21 degrees
Saturday, 16 April 2011
Lots of rain today
No walks for Totty today as it was so wet all day.
We went out for coffee and then to the library and then the supermarket for a few bits.
We got home for lunch and then had a quiet afternoon watching TV and reading - lovely nothing to do.
We got ready to go out and Heather took us picking up Mike and Bob on the way. Heather then went back to babysit for Mike. We had been invited by Mark, the owner of the company, for dinner at a Thai restaurant.
Really nice dinner and lovely food but it finished rather early as the restaurant wanted to close!!! Well it is NZ.
We went back to Mikes for a drink and Jon was very drunk!!! Poor Heather had to wait for ages to take us home but she was well paid for baby sitting and also for driving us so she didn't complain.
Home for a coffee and bed.
WEATHER
Wet all day 21 degrees
We went out for coffee and then to the library and then the supermarket for a few bits.
We got home for lunch and then had a quiet afternoon watching TV and reading - lovely nothing to do.
We got ready to go out and Heather took us picking up Mike and Bob on the way. Heather then went back to babysit for Mike. We had been invited by Mark, the owner of the company, for dinner at a Thai restaurant.
Really nice dinner and lovely food but it finished rather early as the restaurant wanted to close!!! Well it is NZ.
We went back to Mikes for a drink and Jon was very drunk!!! Poor Heather had to wait for ages to take us home but she was well paid for baby sitting and also for driving us so she didn't complain.
Home for a coffee and bed.
WEATHER
Wet all day 21 degrees
Friday, 15 April 2011
A more normal day today
I could have happily turned over this morning and gone back to sleep - typical when I have to get up and be somewhere!
Took Totty out and found out where all the party noise was coming from last night. The house at the bottom of our drive has new people living in it and outside on the grass where lots of cans and one of the new, young trees had been badly knocked about.The owner, who works for Air NZ on long haul flights will not be happy. She had asked Bronwyn to let her know if anything went on at the house and so I am sure after last night Bronwyn will not hesitate to do so.
I arrived at the shop and it was just Les and I as Sharon was on leave. We had lots of boxes to unpack and get out and Les was in her 'let's get on with it' mood. She will wear herself out. You can only do what you can do and I for one am not going to rush around like a mad thing. However, the morning passed pleasantly enough and we had our coffee when Anna came in at 11.00 and Les calmed down a little.
I bought some very nice sunglasses for $2 minus my discount so $1.50!!! They are really nice. An old lady came in to try them on and could not make up her mind between them and a black pair. I told her the black ones suited her better and I bought the other pair which are sort of brown and speckled. The black ones really did suit her better!!!
I arrived home at the same time as Heather and we had lunch. I then went out to the post office to post a parcel for Heather to Justin for Easter.
When I got back I took Totty out as it had clouded over and as rain was forecast I thought I had better. The rain never came.
I spent the rest of the afternoon doing my ironing and catching up with Neighbours, nearly there now.
Jon got back from Auckland at 6.00 and went out for our fish and chips later.
We caught up with one episode of Corrie but still have one to go.
Still lovely and mild and I am sitting here with the door open as it is so warm and it is 11.00 pm.
We are all looking forward to a lie in tomorrow. We will probably all be awake as usual!!!
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 21 degrees and the forecast showers never happened.
Took Totty out and found out where all the party noise was coming from last night. The house at the bottom of our drive has new people living in it and outside on the grass where lots of cans and one of the new, young trees had been badly knocked about.The owner, who works for Air NZ on long haul flights will not be happy. She had asked Bronwyn to let her know if anything went on at the house and so I am sure after last night Bronwyn will not hesitate to do so.
I arrived at the shop and it was just Les and I as Sharon was on leave. We had lots of boxes to unpack and get out and Les was in her 'let's get on with it' mood. She will wear herself out. You can only do what you can do and I for one am not going to rush around like a mad thing. However, the morning passed pleasantly enough and we had our coffee when Anna came in at 11.00 and Les calmed down a little.
I bought some very nice sunglasses for $2 minus my discount so $1.50!!! They are really nice. An old lady came in to try them on and could not make up her mind between them and a black pair. I told her the black ones suited her better and I bought the other pair which are sort of brown and speckled. The black ones really did suit her better!!!
I arrived home at the same time as Heather and we had lunch. I then went out to the post office to post a parcel for Heather to Justin for Easter.
When I got back I took Totty out as it had clouded over and as rain was forecast I thought I had better. The rain never came.
I spent the rest of the afternoon doing my ironing and catching up with Neighbours, nearly there now.
Jon got back from Auckland at 6.00 and went out for our fish and chips later.
We caught up with one episode of Corrie but still have one to go.
Still lovely and mild and I am sitting here with the door open as it is so warm and it is 11.00 pm.
We are all looking forward to a lie in tomorrow. We will probably all be awake as usual!!!
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 21 degrees and the forecast showers never happened.
Thursday, 14 April 2011
Clean house, clean car, clean dog!
Hair coloured, two loads of washing, car washed, plants watered and dog walked all before 10.00. I then came back and did another load of washing.
My cold is really horrible and I am fed up with a dripping nose!!
I did a bit more sorting out and getting things back in order.
Heather came home for lunch and we had asparagus which was very nice.
After lunch I bathed the dog as she smelt very bad and then went to the library as my books were due back and I have renewed them once so can't do it again without staff seeing them. I wanted one of them back but I wasn't allowed and as it was the only one there I will now have to go and get it tomorrow - such a silly rule as nobody was waiting for it.
I then went and did a bit of shopping before going home.
I cooked tuna and pasta bake for Heather a real treat for her and when she came in from netball she was really hungry. Jon called to say he was fine and will be back tomorrow.
We watched a bit of TV and then caught up a bit with photos but I can't put them on Facebook yet as until Kirsty and James get home nobody knows about their engagement and this won't be up until they are home so it doesn't matter what I write here. You can see her ring in a lot of the photos!!!
I had an email from Kirsty and they are having a good time in Sydney and the weather is good over there, too.
Not sure what is going on out in the street tonight. A lot of rowdy people and it sounds like a party but not sure where it is as we are well back from the main road. No doubt I will find out from Alison or Bronwyn tomorrow.
Off to bed now to read my book and catch up with some much needed sleep.
WEATHER
Really hot again today 23 degrees
My cold is really horrible and I am fed up with a dripping nose!!
I did a bit more sorting out and getting things back in order.
Heather came home for lunch and we had asparagus which was very nice.
After lunch I bathed the dog as she smelt very bad and then went to the library as my books were due back and I have renewed them once so can't do it again without staff seeing them. I wanted one of them back but I wasn't allowed and as it was the only one there I will now have to go and get it tomorrow - such a silly rule as nobody was waiting for it.
I then went and did a bit of shopping before going home.
I cooked tuna and pasta bake for Heather a real treat for her and when she came in from netball she was really hungry. Jon called to say he was fine and will be back tomorrow.
We watched a bit of TV and then caught up a bit with photos but I can't put them on Facebook yet as until Kirsty and James get home nobody knows about their engagement and this won't be up until they are home so it doesn't matter what I write here. You can see her ring in a lot of the photos!!!
I had an email from Kirsty and they are having a good time in Sydney and the weather is good over there, too.
Not sure what is going on out in the street tonight. A lot of rowdy people and it sounds like a party but not sure where it is as we are well back from the main road. No doubt I will find out from Alison or Bronwyn tomorrow.
Off to bed now to read my book and catch up with some much needed sleep.
WEATHER
Really hot again today 23 degrees
Wednesday, 13 April 2011
Tuesday & Wed
Tuesday
I took Tot to kennels and we set off to Auckland later than we wanted to. After packing and making sure they had not forgotten anything.
Of course we had a coffee stop on the way.
We first visited the Sky Tower, where Kirsty and James banded heads which hurt her feelings more than her head! and then walked down to the Harbour for lunch.
It was by now getting late and we made our way to Kelly Tarlton sea life centre. Not a place I particularly like but they all wanted to see the king penguins which are sweet. The staff told us it is all going to be revamped as it has been bought by Merlin and not before time I say, it could be a gold mine.
We then went to our hotel and got ready for dinner. We had a drink in the bar and then into the restaurant.
Heather didn't like anything on the menu as it was all a bit fancy for her. We asked the waitress if she could have something from the bar menu. She was very rude (Scottish girl) and just said no so Heather ordered chips which put a bit of a damper on the meal. We then saw some people nearby with children and they were given a children's menu!!! We asked the waitress if we could order from that and once again she just said 'no, only up to age 12' and walked away. She was so arrogant. By now the mood was worse! When the other waitress came to serve our starters Jon asked her why we couldn't order from the children's menu and she told us she was in charge of the restaurant and of course we could. She then went and told the other girl off. I think she might be on borrowed time she really does have an attitude problem and you don't get that here in NZ. So Heather got her mini pizza and we all enjoyed what we had so all was well.
We didn't stay up late as we needed to be up to say goodbye to Kirsty and James who have to leave at 6.00 am!!!
Wednesday
Up at 5.30 to say bye to Kirsty and shed a few tears to see them go.
We then went back to bed for a couple of hours.
We got up for breakfast which was very nice. We then packed and left the hotel.
I have now come out with a horrible cold and my nose is streaming. We went to a small shopping mall near the airport and had a look around and then went for a coffee before Jon took Heather and I to the airport. We sat and waited for our flight which was on time. Jon has to stay in Auckland for meetings till Friday.
We had a nice smooth flight, it only takes 20 minutes and landed gently and the weather looked sunny.
Bronwyn picked us up in her new car which is very nice and she took Heather to work and brought me home.
I got stuck in and changed the bedrooms so Heather could go back into hers. I did some washing and then at 4.00 I went to pick Tot up.
Heather and I had dinner and we were both very tired and my cold was horrible so we had an early night.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 21 degrees
I took Tot to kennels and we set off to Auckland later than we wanted to. After packing and making sure they had not forgotten anything.
Of course we had a coffee stop on the way.
We first visited the Sky Tower, where Kirsty and James banded heads which hurt her feelings more than her head! and then walked down to the Harbour for lunch.
It was by now getting late and we made our way to Kelly Tarlton sea life centre. Not a place I particularly like but they all wanted to see the king penguins which are sweet. The staff told us it is all going to be revamped as it has been bought by Merlin and not before time I say, it could be a gold mine.
We then went to our hotel and got ready for dinner. We had a drink in the bar and then into the restaurant.
Heather didn't like anything on the menu as it was all a bit fancy for her. We asked the waitress if she could have something from the bar menu. She was very rude (Scottish girl) and just said no so Heather ordered chips which put a bit of a damper on the meal. We then saw some people nearby with children and they were given a children's menu!!! We asked the waitress if we could order from that and once again she just said 'no, only up to age 12' and walked away. She was so arrogant. By now the mood was worse! When the other waitress came to serve our starters Jon asked her why we couldn't order from the children's menu and she told us she was in charge of the restaurant and of course we could. She then went and told the other girl off. I think she might be on borrowed time she really does have an attitude problem and you don't get that here in NZ. So Heather got her mini pizza and we all enjoyed what we had so all was well.
We didn't stay up late as we needed to be up to say goodbye to Kirsty and James who have to leave at 6.00 am!!!
Wednesday
Up at 5.30 to say bye to Kirsty and shed a few tears to see them go.
We then went back to bed for a couple of hours.
We got up for breakfast which was very nice. We then packed and left the hotel.
I have now come out with a horrible cold and my nose is streaming. We went to a small shopping mall near the airport and had a look around and then went for a coffee before Jon took Heather and I to the airport. We sat and waited for our flight which was on time. Jon has to stay in Auckland for meetings till Friday.
We had a nice smooth flight, it only takes 20 minutes and landed gently and the weather looked sunny.
Bronwyn picked us up in her new car which is very nice and she took Heather to work and brought me home.
I got stuck in and changed the bedrooms so Heather could go back into hers. I did some washing and then at 4.00 I went to pick Tot up.
Heather and I had dinner and we were both very tired and my cold was horrible so we had an early night.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 21 degrees
Monday, 11 April 2011
Lots of washing
Lovely walk with Tot in the sun.
Kirsty and James had a lie in this morning so I had time to do some housework and sort myself out a bit and get the washing done and hung out before they needed to do theirs.
I then went out to the supermarket and did my shopping and went to the cheesecake shop where I bought half a marble chocolate and vanilla baked cheesecake and half a lemon meringue pie. Both were really big and they are far too much but I have to make sure everyone has something they like!!!
Jon and Heather came home for lunch and Carol, the Avon lady called with my order and also my friend Carol's order.
After lunch I did some ironing but I feel so tired and my throat is really horrible and scratchy.
I took James across to the office to meet Heather as they are going to go up the Mount and Jon will bring them home later.
I popped round to Carol to take her Avon things as she is off to Sydney on Wednesday for three months to stay with her son and look after her grandson so the order arrived just in time.
Got back and got a bbq ready and we all had far too much to eat again. I am looking forward to normal meals again and not so much wine!
WEATHER
Really warm and sunny again 23 degrees
Kirsty and James had a lie in this morning so I had time to do some housework and sort myself out a bit and get the washing done and hung out before they needed to do theirs.
I then went out to the supermarket and did my shopping and went to the cheesecake shop where I bought half a marble chocolate and vanilla baked cheesecake and half a lemon meringue pie. Both were really big and they are far too much but I have to make sure everyone has something they like!!!
Jon and Heather came home for lunch and Carol, the Avon lady called with my order and also my friend Carol's order.
After lunch I did some ironing but I feel so tired and my throat is really horrible and scratchy.
I took James across to the office to meet Heather as they are going to go up the Mount and Jon will bring them home later.
I popped round to Carol to take her Avon things as she is off to Sydney on Wednesday for three months to stay with her son and look after her grandson so the order arrived just in time.
Got back and got a bbq ready and we all had far too much to eat again. I am looking forward to normal meals again and not so much wine!
WEATHER
Really warm and sunny again 23 degrees
Sunday, 10 April 2011
Sunday - Waitomo Caves
VERY early start for me as I had forgotten to change the time on my mobile and as I use it as an alarm I was up at 6.00 instead of seven. I then went to wake Heather as she said she wanted to be up for 7.30. She told me to go away and take the dog out for a LONG walk!!!!
Eventually everyone got up and we got ready for our trip and finally left at 8.30 ish. It has been a bit of a squash going out at weekend with Jon as I have been sitting in the middle at the back and James in the front.
Lovely day visit to caves starting with coffee.
The first cave was very dark and the tour was very different to our first visit with a different guide.
We had pre ordered lunch before we visited the caves so it would be ready when we got back to the centre. Unfortunately, the meal Kirsty and James got was stone cold so had to go back and we eventually got our meals but in the end it was very good. The chef brought out a lovely chocolate tart, warm from the oven. We have no idea why he was giving out samples but it was soooo good.
We then went into the glow worm cave which was as lovely as I remember it being last time. After the cave visit and a young English girl sang a song in the main cave which was a lovely sound we then went down and got on the boat to see the glow worms which are really pretty.
We ended the afternoon with an ice cream and a walk around the souvenir shop and bought our photo taken on the boat.
We drove down the road to the Discovery Centre and watched a very interesting film about the caves and the history of them.
We then set off on the long journey home.
We had a lovely dinner with the big piece of rump steak done on bbq.
We then watched the Grand Prix which was rather boring.
Off to bed and only one more day before Kirsty and James have to leave.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny 22 degrees
Eventually everyone got up and we got ready for our trip and finally left at 8.30 ish. It has been a bit of a squash going out at weekend with Jon as I have been sitting in the middle at the back and James in the front.
Lovely day visit to caves starting with coffee.
The first cave was very dark and the tour was very different to our first visit with a different guide.
We had pre ordered lunch before we visited the caves so it would be ready when we got back to the centre. Unfortunately, the meal Kirsty and James got was stone cold so had to go back and we eventually got our meals but in the end it was very good. The chef brought out a lovely chocolate tart, warm from the oven. We have no idea why he was giving out samples but it was soooo good.
We then went into the glow worm cave which was as lovely as I remember it being last time. After the cave visit and a young English girl sang a song in the main cave which was a lovely sound we then went down and got on the boat to see the glow worms which are really pretty.
We ended the afternoon with an ice cream and a walk around the souvenir shop and bought our photo taken on the boat.
We drove down the road to the Discovery Centre and watched a very interesting film about the caves and the history of them.
We then set off on the long journey home.
We had a lovely dinner with the big piece of rump steak done on bbq.
We then watched the Grand Prix which was rather boring.
Off to bed and only one more day before Kirsty and James have to leave.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny 22 degrees
Saturday, 9 April 2011
Karangahke Gorge
A late start after heavy night but I feel a lot better than I ought to!
After a quick walk with Tot I packed a picnic using the leftover pork and then we went down to the Swiss Chalet for breakfast. Kirsty and James had the full yodel which, when ordered the chef yodels from the kitchen and when the owner, who is Swiss and also the waitress, serves it she also yodels much to Kirsty and James embarrassment. Jon had poached eggs and I had fruit and muesli, very good.
Heather decided not to come with us and went shopping with Emma. We set off to the Karangahake Gorge. It was really lovely there and we had a lovely walk but a long way to the waterfall for our picnic. Kirsty wasn't too happy but she didn't moan and it was very pretty at the waterfall.
The walk back was not too bad and James took a different route as he wanted to climb up some stairs so we could see him up higher on the other side of the gorge and then we met him at the car park.
We went to Waihi on the way back and went to see Martha's mine which is a working gold mine and very impressive.
When we got back we had a cuppa and a few minutes rest before taking Tot out and then off out to see the demolition Derby that was cancelled last weekend. We had to have a burger and chips there as we had no time for dinner before we left.
The racing was very good and the demolition Derby a lot of fun. It was followed by a very good firework display.
It was then home and to bed ready for another early start tomorrow!
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
After a quick walk with Tot I packed a picnic using the leftover pork and then we went down to the Swiss Chalet for breakfast. Kirsty and James had the full yodel which, when ordered the chef yodels from the kitchen and when the owner, who is Swiss and also the waitress, serves it she also yodels much to Kirsty and James embarrassment. Jon had poached eggs and I had fruit and muesli, very good.
Heather decided not to come with us and went shopping with Emma. We set off to the Karangahake Gorge. It was really lovely there and we had a lovely walk but a long way to the waterfall for our picnic. Kirsty wasn't too happy but she didn't moan and it was very pretty at the waterfall.
The walk back was not too bad and James took a different route as he wanted to climb up some stairs so we could see him up higher on the other side of the gorge and then we met him at the car park.
We went to Waihi on the way back and went to see Martha's mine which is a working gold mine and very impressive.
When we got back we had a cuppa and a few minutes rest before taking Tot out and then off out to see the demolition Derby that was cancelled last weekend. We had to have a burger and chips there as we had no time for dinner before we left.
The racing was very good and the demolition Derby a lot of fun. It was followed by a very good firework display.
It was then home and to bed ready for another early start tomorrow!
WEATHER
Hot and sunny 24 degrees
Friday, 8 April 2011
Far too much to drink this evening
Walked the dog and then took Kirsty and James down to the Mount to have a to have a look round the shops as they wanted to buy some presents to take home. They then went to Pilot Bay to watch a ship go out. They spent the morning down at the Mount and out on the island and really enjoyed themselves and was the only time they had on their own. I was really glad James suggested staying at home this weekend. It was getting far to complicated to sort things out.
I went to the Red Cross and had a busy morning and then met them down at a bar for lunch.
After lunch we went to the Classic Flyers Museum which James really enjoyed and then we met Heather at the helicopter office down at the airport at 4.00. It was a beautiful clear afternoon and they decided to do the longer flight and they all really enjoyed it.
I was really pleased it was fish and chip night and I had nothing to cook so just had a nice rest till Jon came home.
We had fish and chips and James went out with Jon to go for a drink at the pub while waiting for the dinner.
We had far too much to drink and I believe there is now a video of me singing 'So Long Farewell' from the Sound of Music - Oh dear!!!
WEATHER
Bright and sunny 24 degrees
I went to the Red Cross and had a busy morning and then met them down at a bar for lunch.
After lunch we went to the Classic Flyers Museum which James really enjoyed and then we met Heather at the helicopter office down at the airport at 4.00. It was a beautiful clear afternoon and they decided to do the longer flight and they all really enjoyed it.
I was really pleased it was fish and chip night and I had nothing to cook so just had a nice rest till Jon came home.
We had fish and chips and James went out with Jon to go for a drink at the pub while waiting for the dinner.
We had far too much to drink and I believe there is now a video of me singing 'So Long Farewell' from the Sound of Music - Oh dear!!!
WEATHER
Bright and sunny 24 degrees
Thursday, 7 April 2011
A lazy day
After a nice walk with Tot I decided we needed to have a quiet day. James was also busy getting his photos up to date and also the film he is putting together of their trip so we had a lazy morning.
We went out to Gate Pa for coffee and then into the Aussie butcher where I bough a huge piece of rump steak to cook on the bbq and a piece of pork which I intend to cook with Guinness.
I then thought they ought to see a Kiwi DIY shop which is very like B & Q and we also needed some WD40. I know how to show my visitors a good time!! And it was then off to another supermarket!
Heather came home for lunch but Jon was in Auckland.
We had a lacy afternoon planning the weekend which is becoming complicated due to the helicopter flight that Heather is buying for James' birthday which means we can't now leave till Saturday and then we have to get Tot into kennels.
I took Kirsty and James down to the office to meet up with Heather to go and watch her play netball and they were then going out for a drink.
I got back and took Tot for a walk.
The pork in Guinness was really good and we all enjoyed it for dinner, well Heather didn't but then I didn't think she would.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny but with one or two showers 20 degrees
We went out to Gate Pa for coffee and then into the Aussie butcher where I bough a huge piece of rump steak to cook on the bbq and a piece of pork which I intend to cook with Guinness.
I then thought they ought to see a Kiwi DIY shop which is very like B & Q and we also needed some WD40. I know how to show my visitors a good time!! And it was then off to another supermarket!
Heather came home for lunch but Jon was in Auckland.
We had a lacy afternoon planning the weekend which is becoming complicated due to the helicopter flight that Heather is buying for James' birthday which means we can't now leave till Saturday and then we have to get Tot into kennels.
I took Kirsty and James down to the office to meet up with Heather to go and watch her play netball and they were then going out for a drink.
I got back and took Tot for a walk.
The pork in Guinness was really good and we all enjoyed it for dinner, well Heather didn't but then I didn't think she would.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny but with one or two showers 20 degrees
Wednesday, 6 April 2011
Waimangu
I got Tot out for her walk and then we all set off for Waimangu another thermal park just south of Rotorua. I have never driven so much down here, usually Jon does all the driving when we go out.
We arrived at the park after an easy drive and surprise, surprise we were just in time for coffee. There were lots of wasps around so we didn't stay for too long in the coffee shop.
The walk through the park is 3.6km and you pass various lakes and thermal pools and streams. When we were last there we saw one lake which was a beautiful bright blue. Today, that same lake was overflowing with boiling water and you could only see steam. I am always in wonder when I go to these places and think about what is under our feet and how it comes to the surface.
We had a nice picnic lunch half way down the park and then carried on to the lake to wait for the boat ride which takes you out onto the lake and into a crater. There was a group of school children on out boat and they were Oz polite and in NZ for 12 days what a school trip, some of them were quite young, too. I got chatting to a young girl and boy and they told me they were from Victoria, near Geelong which is where we went for James flight - small world.
After the boat ride you get taken back up by bus which was just as well as we were not in the mood to walk another 3.6 km.
We drove to the council park in Rotorua which has lots of mud pools and thermal lakes you can walk around.
I was by now very tired and did not fancy the drive home, now I know how Jon feels after a day out.
When I got back I had to take Tot out for her afternoon walk and I did it straight away cos if I had sat down I would not have got up again!
We went across to the Mount tonight for an eat as much as you like Chinese dinner which was very good but Heather and I do not get our monies worth!!
I am feeling really tired now and need a rest.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny but a chilly wind 22 degrees
We arrived at the park after an easy drive and surprise, surprise we were just in time for coffee. There were lots of wasps around so we didn't stay for too long in the coffee shop.
The walk through the park is 3.6km and you pass various lakes and thermal pools and streams. When we were last there we saw one lake which was a beautiful bright blue. Today, that same lake was overflowing with boiling water and you could only see steam. I am always in wonder when I go to these places and think about what is under our feet and how it comes to the surface.
We had a nice picnic lunch half way down the park and then carried on to the lake to wait for the boat ride which takes you out onto the lake and into a crater. There was a group of school children on out boat and they were Oz polite and in NZ for 12 days what a school trip, some of them were quite young, too. I got chatting to a young girl and boy and they told me they were from Victoria, near Geelong which is where we went for James flight - small world.
After the boat ride you get taken back up by bus which was just as well as we were not in the mood to walk another 3.6 km.
We drove to the council park in Rotorua which has lots of mud pools and thermal lakes you can walk around.
I was by now very tired and did not fancy the drive home, now I know how Jon feels after a day out.
When I got back I had to take Tot out for her afternoon walk and I did it straight away cos if I had sat down I would not have got up again!
We went across to the Mount tonight for an eat as much as you like Chinese dinner which was very good but Heather and I do not get our monies worth!!
I am feeling really tired now and need a rest.
WEATHER
Bright and sunny but a chilly wind 22 degrees
Tuesday, 5 April 2011
Tuesday and lots of showers
I took Tot out for an early walk and then went to my keep fit class.
When I got back we went out to the tip (I needed to get rid of some bottles, plastic and glass) we went for a coffee and then went for a walk around the Historic Village and dodged the showers.
We got back in time for lunch with Heather and Jon.
I took Totty to vet in the afternoon as she has sore spots on her legs again so she had to have another injection.
We met Heather and Michelle at the Mount and James went up to the top with them and Kirsty and I had a nice walk around the base track and had a nice chat and we actually saw a kingfisher so she was very happy. We then went and sat in a bar to wait for the others and then went home and James cooked a bbq.
Heather has been very moody lately and quite difficult and tonight we had words and she asked me if she should bother coming out with us tomorrow and I told her it was up to her but if she was going to be moody there was not much point.
When everyone had gone to bed and I was on the computer she came back upstairs very upset and told me she was missing her friends a lot and said I had not been very nice to her since Kirsty had arrived and she felt she was always doing the wrong thing. I felt really bad as I had no idea she was so unhappy as she always appears to be OK. We had a long chat and a cuddle and I said I would try to be more understanding but I couldn't read her mind and so she must tell me if she is so unhappy. I know it is hard for her as she has not met any young people and she was so busy back in the UK and used to being with people. I just don't know how to get her to meet young people.
WEATHER
Showers with sunny spells 20 degrees.
When I got back we went out to the tip (I needed to get rid of some bottles, plastic and glass) we went for a coffee and then went for a walk around the Historic Village and dodged the showers.
We got back in time for lunch with Heather and Jon.
I took Totty to vet in the afternoon as she has sore spots on her legs again so she had to have another injection.
We met Heather and Michelle at the Mount and James went up to the top with them and Kirsty and I had a nice walk around the base track and had a nice chat and we actually saw a kingfisher so she was very happy. We then went and sat in a bar to wait for the others and then went home and James cooked a bbq.
Heather has been very moody lately and quite difficult and tonight we had words and she asked me if she should bother coming out with us tomorrow and I told her it was up to her but if she was going to be moody there was not much point.
When everyone had gone to bed and I was on the computer she came back upstairs very upset and told me she was missing her friends a lot and said I had not been very nice to her since Kirsty had arrived and she felt she was always doing the wrong thing. I felt really bad as I had no idea she was so unhappy as she always appears to be OK. We had a long chat and a cuddle and I said I would try to be more understanding but I couldn't read her mind and so she must tell me if she is so unhappy. I know it is hard for her as she has not met any young people and she was so busy back in the UK and used to being with people. I just don't know how to get her to meet young people.
WEATHER
Showers with sunny spells 20 degrees.
Monday, 4 April 2011
A busy day with lots of birds
I had to get some housework done first thing as things were getting a bit messy and I hate mess. James is very good with the vacuum cleaner though so not so bad.
We took Tot for a walk to the park and I did some washing before we went out to Te Puna Quarry Park. We walked up to the top and James loved the views but Kirsty was not happy as she hates walking so I don't think she is going to go up the Mount.
We then went on to Katikati and managed to get to a bar for a coffee before a heavy shower of rain.
We walked around the town looking at all the murals and Kirsty had said she would like to see a kingfisher and as they have lots down by the river we decided to go for a walk along river which would have been very nice had it not been for the heavy shower that came over and no place to shelter so we got wet again and didn't see any kingfishers and there are usually lots of them.
We then drove to the bird gardens and arrived in another shower of rain so we sat and ate a very nice lunch there until it stopped and then we set off round the gardens with out bags of bird food.
I had warned Kirsty and James about the doves but they were still taken by surprise at the speed they descended on us. It was so funny, we had birds everywhere and they even managed to help themselves to the food out of the bag in my hand. It was lots of fun. We also fed the ducks and various other birds around these lovely gardens and no more rain.
Another trip to the supermarket to buy dinner and then home in time to cook corned beef. This is not like English corned beef it is more like gammon but it is beef and Kirsty and James really liked it so it was just as well I had bought a big piece. I did some ironing while I was waiting for the dinner to cook.
We all had another reasonably early night, this sightseeing is very tiring.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny but heavy showers 21 degrees
We took Tot for a walk to the park and I did some washing before we went out to Te Puna Quarry Park. We walked up to the top and James loved the views but Kirsty was not happy as she hates walking so I don't think she is going to go up the Mount.
We then went on to Katikati and managed to get to a bar for a coffee before a heavy shower of rain.
We walked around the town looking at all the murals and Kirsty had said she would like to see a kingfisher and as they have lots down by the river we decided to go for a walk along river which would have been very nice had it not been for the heavy shower that came over and no place to shelter so we got wet again and didn't see any kingfishers and there are usually lots of them.
We then drove to the bird gardens and arrived in another shower of rain so we sat and ate a very nice lunch there until it stopped and then we set off round the gardens with out bags of bird food.
I had warned Kirsty and James about the doves but they were still taken by surprise at the speed they descended on us. It was so funny, we had birds everywhere and they even managed to help themselves to the food out of the bag in my hand. It was lots of fun. We also fed the ducks and various other birds around these lovely gardens and no more rain.
Another trip to the supermarket to buy dinner and then home in time to cook corned beef. This is not like English corned beef it is more like gammon but it is beef and Kirsty and James really liked it so it was just as well I had bought a big piece. I did some ironing while I was waiting for the dinner to cook.
We all had another reasonably early night, this sightseeing is very tiring.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny but heavy showers 21 degrees
Sunday, 3 April 2011
White Island on a very wet day!!
Very early start again to get to Whakatane for 8.45. So another short walk for Tot today.
We arrived in Whakatane for 8.45 after driving through some wet weather and it was very cloudy and overcast. For the last two years I have always said that I would only go across to White Island on a clear, calm sunny day!!! So how had I managed to get myself roped into the trip on a day like today!!!
We paid for the tickets and were told that they could see on the web cam that the sun was shinning out there and so all would be well. We had time for a coffee before getting on the boat.
The beginning of the trip was not too bad but as we got out further it was very bouncy and rough and you could not walk around the boat. We stopped to see some dolphins which was really good and then set off again and it was then really rough. Kirsty was looking ill, Jon not much better and Heather was in a panic as to who was going to be sick first!
I asked one of the crew members where was the best place to sit if you felt ill and he told me the lower deck, and so I asked if we could go down. they had to slow the boat right down so we could get down the stairs as it was so bad. Down below and outside at the back resembled a war zone with so many people sitting holding paper bags. Kirsty got a seat in the middle with Heather and Jon and I got one at the side out in the open and the crew kindly gave us an extra raincoat to cover our legs. Poor Kirsty looked dreadful. James was fine and walked around the boat like macho man!!! I told Jon to keep looking at the horizon and we managed to make it to the Island without being sick but not so for Kirsty and many others. Heather sat with her hood up and her hands over here ears and when we arrived I was surprised to see that she was actually smiling. It was a very long 80 minute trip. I have to hand it to the crew, they were amazing handing out bags and face cloths to people, certainly not a job I would like to do.
When we arrived at White Island you need to board a small rubber dinghy to get across to the jetty. As we were at the back and eager to get on dry land we were the first off the boat. As we were crossing to the jetty we had a really heavy downpour and the rain came down with spots the size of peas and we got soaked. We had all been given gas masks and told to keep them dry and probably that was the only dry thing on us as we were soaked to the skin and my trousers were sticking to me and Heather had jeans on which then became really heavy. We had to scramble up a wooden ladder and then cross some big boulders to get onto the island. The only shelter was a ruined wall from the old sulphur factory and we all stood along it like penguins but it didn't offer much protection so we got VERY wet and stayed like that for the two hour tour BUT our gas masks were dry!!!
It was a really good tour and we certainly needed the gas masks as the fumes from the volcano were so strong it made you cough and your eyes water. They gave us sweets to suck which did help. It is a really dangerous place to be and you need to follow the guides instructions as there are no safety rails and when the steam covers you you just want to get out of it but we had been told not to run anywhere so had to stay put till the wind took it away, a very odd experience but well worth it.
We were taken back to the boat for a very nice lunch asparagus rolls, egg sandwich, fruit, cheese and biscuits and a choc bar and drink. The captain was driving the dinghy back and I asked him how rough it has to be before they cancel it and he said 'Oh much worse than this'. I will never again believe anyone in a booking office when booking a sea trip. We did wonder about eating the lunch but the captain said the journey back would be better as the wind was behind us. I believed him and he was right! I was surprised to see that one side of the island had lots of trees growing on it and they say this is where the workers who used to bring the sulphur out used to live. What a life being stuck out there for three months at a time and no communication.
It was a very soggy drive home to a welcome shower and dry clothes. The hot water heater worked overtime with five of us. I did manage to get Tot out for a walk in the evening.
We had dinner and a very early night as the clocks changed last night and it is now dark much earlier and after such a busy weekend we were all so tired.
WEATHER
Cloudy to start then showers and rain on White Island then watery sunshine back in the Bay
We arrived in Whakatane for 8.45 after driving through some wet weather and it was very cloudy and overcast. For the last two years I have always said that I would only go across to White Island on a clear, calm sunny day!!! So how had I managed to get myself roped into the trip on a day like today!!!
We paid for the tickets and were told that they could see on the web cam that the sun was shinning out there and so all would be well. We had time for a coffee before getting on the boat.
The beginning of the trip was not too bad but as we got out further it was very bouncy and rough and you could not walk around the boat. We stopped to see some dolphins which was really good and then set off again and it was then really rough. Kirsty was looking ill, Jon not much better and Heather was in a panic as to who was going to be sick first!
I asked one of the crew members where was the best place to sit if you felt ill and he told me the lower deck, and so I asked if we could go down. they had to slow the boat right down so we could get down the stairs as it was so bad. Down below and outside at the back resembled a war zone with so many people sitting holding paper bags. Kirsty got a seat in the middle with Heather and Jon and I got one at the side out in the open and the crew kindly gave us an extra raincoat to cover our legs. Poor Kirsty looked dreadful. James was fine and walked around the boat like macho man!!! I told Jon to keep looking at the horizon and we managed to make it to the Island without being sick but not so for Kirsty and many others. Heather sat with her hood up and her hands over here ears and when we arrived I was surprised to see that she was actually smiling. It was a very long 80 minute trip. I have to hand it to the crew, they were amazing handing out bags and face cloths to people, certainly not a job I would like to do.
When we arrived at White Island you need to board a small rubber dinghy to get across to the jetty. As we were at the back and eager to get on dry land we were the first off the boat. As we were crossing to the jetty we had a really heavy downpour and the rain came down with spots the size of peas and we got soaked. We had all been given gas masks and told to keep them dry and probably that was the only dry thing on us as we were soaked to the skin and my trousers were sticking to me and Heather had jeans on which then became really heavy. We had to scramble up a wooden ladder and then cross some big boulders to get onto the island. The only shelter was a ruined wall from the old sulphur factory and we all stood along it like penguins but it didn't offer much protection so we got VERY wet and stayed like that for the two hour tour BUT our gas masks were dry!!!
It was a really good tour and we certainly needed the gas masks as the fumes from the volcano were so strong it made you cough and your eyes water. They gave us sweets to suck which did help. It is a really dangerous place to be and you need to follow the guides instructions as there are no safety rails and when the steam covers you you just want to get out of it but we had been told not to run anywhere so had to stay put till the wind took it away, a very odd experience but well worth it.
We were taken back to the boat for a very nice lunch asparagus rolls, egg sandwich, fruit, cheese and biscuits and a choc bar and drink. The captain was driving the dinghy back and I asked him how rough it has to be before they cancel it and he said 'Oh much worse than this'. I will never again believe anyone in a booking office when booking a sea trip. We did wonder about eating the lunch but the captain said the journey back would be better as the wind was behind us. I believed him and he was right! I was surprised to see that one side of the island had lots of trees growing on it and they say this is where the workers who used to bring the sulphur out used to live. What a life being stuck out there for three months at a time and no communication.
It was a very soggy drive home to a welcome shower and dry clothes. The hot water heater worked overtime with five of us. I did manage to get Tot out for a walk in the evening.
We had dinner and a very early night as the clocks changed last night and it is now dark much earlier and after such a busy weekend we were all so tired.
WEATHER
Cloudy to start then showers and rain on White Island then watery sunshine back in the Bay
Saturday, 2 April 2011
Te Kuiti - sheep Running
We had an early start this morning as we weren't quite sure how long the trip was going to take.
We arrived at the Kiwi Sanctuary in plenty of time to have coffee at Otorohanga. The Kiwi sanctuary is really the only sure place to see a Kiwi bird and we were not disappointed, we saw two. The rest of the park was very nice and we saw the NZ parrot being fed and also the tuatara bird.
We then drove on down to Te Kuiti to see the Great NZ sheep muster. Everyone was standing in the street and I wondered how the sheep were going to be kept in, I soon found out. An announcement was made for everyone to hold up the 'safety barrier'!! This was nothing more than a long roll of tarpaulin which everyone held onto. Only in New Zealand - no Health and Safety here. However, that said everyone was very well behaved and when told to be quiet as the sheep passed by so as not to frighten them, everyone was quiet and the sheep went running by in a very orderly manner and with a lot of smell!! It was really good to see it.
We then walked down to the holding pen where some of the sheep were sheared using the old fashioned wind up shears. All good fun and a good family day out.
We then watched a demonstration by the fire brigade who showed what happens when you leave a chip pan on the heat. It is a big problem here and there are many house fires due to leaving things cooking and as the houses are mostly wooden it doesn't take long for them to burn.
We had lunch from the many stalls in the street and we had some Asian food which was tasty but a bit greasy for my liking. We then rounded off the afternoon with an ice cream, James is really liking the Hokey Pokey flavour now, shame they don't make it in the UK.
We phoned the White Island boat trip company to see if the weather was set to be fine for tomorrow. They said it was and so we booked - another early start!!
As we wanted to get back for the demolition Derby we set off home stopping at Lake Karapiro on the way. We stopped by the dam and Kirsty and James had a walk across it and we took more photos before setting off on the last hour of the journey.
The view from the top of the Kaimai hills over the Waikato valley was really clear today so we stopped for more photos. Heather went over that way seven times when she was first here and we never saw the view with her so it was also a first for her. Unfortunately, as we got to the top of the hills and looked down over the Bay the weather was very different and it was raining heavily.
When we got back we had the much needed cup of tea and Heather logged on to the stadium only to find out that the demolition Derby had been cancelled due to too much rain on the track so we could have spent more time in the sun on the other side of the hills!!!
I drove Heather to the Warehouse to pick up her phone and she was not happy as it was all scratched as they had put it in a bag with the charger. She will need to speak to the other branch that sent it off next week.
We had a call to say that the boat trip is on for tomorrow!!!!
WEATHER
Warm and sunny in Te Kuiti 23 degrees. Wet as we came over the Kaimai Hill and heavy rain at night
We arrived at the Kiwi Sanctuary in plenty of time to have coffee at Otorohanga. The Kiwi sanctuary is really the only sure place to see a Kiwi bird and we were not disappointed, we saw two. The rest of the park was very nice and we saw the NZ parrot being fed and also the tuatara bird.
We then drove on down to Te Kuiti to see the Great NZ sheep muster. Everyone was standing in the street and I wondered how the sheep were going to be kept in, I soon found out. An announcement was made for everyone to hold up the 'safety barrier'!! This was nothing more than a long roll of tarpaulin which everyone held onto. Only in New Zealand - no Health and Safety here. However, that said everyone was very well behaved and when told to be quiet as the sheep passed by so as not to frighten them, everyone was quiet and the sheep went running by in a very orderly manner and with a lot of smell!! It was really good to see it.
We then walked down to the holding pen where some of the sheep were sheared using the old fashioned wind up shears. All good fun and a good family day out.
We then watched a demonstration by the fire brigade who showed what happens when you leave a chip pan on the heat. It is a big problem here and there are many house fires due to leaving things cooking and as the houses are mostly wooden it doesn't take long for them to burn.
We had lunch from the many stalls in the street and we had some Asian food which was tasty but a bit greasy for my liking. We then rounded off the afternoon with an ice cream, James is really liking the Hokey Pokey flavour now, shame they don't make it in the UK.
We phoned the White Island boat trip company to see if the weather was set to be fine for tomorrow. They said it was and so we booked - another early start!!
As we wanted to get back for the demolition Derby we set off home stopping at Lake Karapiro on the way. We stopped by the dam and Kirsty and James had a walk across it and we took more photos before setting off on the last hour of the journey.
The view from the top of the Kaimai hills over the Waikato valley was really clear today so we stopped for more photos. Heather went over that way seven times when she was first here and we never saw the view with her so it was also a first for her. Unfortunately, as we got to the top of the hills and looked down over the Bay the weather was very different and it was raining heavily.
When we got back we had the much needed cup of tea and Heather logged on to the stadium only to find out that the demolition Derby had been cancelled due to too much rain on the track so we could have spent more time in the sun on the other side of the hills!!!
I drove Heather to the Warehouse to pick up her phone and she was not happy as it was all scratched as they had put it in a bag with the charger. She will need to speak to the other branch that sent it off next week.
We had a call to say that the boat trip is on for tomorrow!!!!
WEATHER
Warm and sunny in Te Kuiti 23 degrees. Wet as we came over the Kaimai Hill and heavy rain at night
Friday, 1 April 2011
Red Cross and more
I was up early and ready to take Tot out for her walk and I met Alison on the way and had a chat.
Went to the shop and it was steady all morning and they now have the winter stock in. We were unpacking home ware and I unpacked a nice ceramic bowl made in NZ and I also bought some nice wine glasses that fit a normal size glass of wine and not the buckets we have. I also bought a pair of black trousers for me and a pair of cropped trousers for Heather.
I left and went to pick up K &J and we went over to meet Heather at Bayfair for lunch. We then went over to the Mount and had a look around the shops for souvenirs and then we went into Tauranga and went to the Elms House for a look around. Then into the town to look at the shops.
On the way home we went into the Memorial Park for a quick look around and then home for a quick cuppa before I took K & J over to meet Heather and her colleagues from work for a drink.
When I got back I did a bit of tidying up - the leap from 2 in the house to five is so big!!!!
Jon got home and we went out with Tot. I felt so tired when I got back I couldn't face any ironing so sat and watched the news.
Jon went off for fish and chips and we had a quiet evening on our own.
They all came back and had had a good time which was nice for Heather
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 23 degrees
Went to the shop and it was steady all morning and they now have the winter stock in. We were unpacking home ware and I unpacked a nice ceramic bowl made in NZ and I also bought some nice wine glasses that fit a normal size glass of wine and not the buckets we have. I also bought a pair of black trousers for me and a pair of cropped trousers for Heather.
I left and went to pick up K &J and we went over to meet Heather at Bayfair for lunch. We then went over to the Mount and had a look around the shops for souvenirs and then we went into Tauranga and went to the Elms House for a look around. Then into the town to look at the shops.
On the way home we went into the Memorial Park for a quick look around and then home for a quick cuppa before I took K & J over to meet Heather and her colleagues from work for a drink.
When I got back I did a bit of tidying up - the leap from 2 in the house to five is so big!!!!
Jon got home and we went out with Tot. I felt so tired when I got back I couldn't face any ironing so sat and watched the news.
Jon went off for fish and chips and we had a quiet evening on our own.
They all came back and had had a good time which was nice for Heather
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 23 degrees
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