I have so much to do

After all the rain we woke to a beautiful, clear blue sky and it was like that for most of the day and really warm. Lots of people having to clear up after the storm though so my little flood in the garage was nothing!

I logged on and found an email from my friend to say there would be no keep fit as Dianne's (keep fit teacher) husband was having surgery today. Good an bad really. I would have enjoyed my class but I have so much to do it was just as well it was cancelled.

I took Tot for her walk and then went into Tauranga. I bought some cards and did some shopping and took Jon's books back to the library. Of course, I had a coffee.

I then went across to Bayfair shopping area as I am looking for a special present for someone but I can't say who it is for but I will know it when I see it which was not today!!!

I bought a few bits that I needed and then went to the supermarket for some kindling and then rushed home to get Tot to the vet - missed lunch again!

i was in for five minutes and then off to the vet where they cleaned up her bottom again and gave her an injection as I thought she might have an ear infection and as we are going away I just wanted to make sure she was well.

I was due to go to aqua aerobics but I was just too tired to bother so I sorted some things out for packing.

My contact lens arrived today and they come all the way from UK but still no photo of Bronwyn from Hawke's bay!!

Jon came home and looked tired and said he is really looking forward to a holiday and a break from work so roll on Friday.

We had dinner and watched some TV. I checked out the entertainment on the flight but there are only two films I like so I might be able to get some sleep.

I need to make Jon's lunch for tomorrow and then I am off to bed.

WEATHER
Sunny 16 degrees

More Rain!

The weather overnight was atrocious, gales and rain. This morning was so dark with really heavy skies.

Jon went off to work and after my very late night I could have happily had a lie in. I was on the computer till midnight with Heather on the phone to me trying to load some software that will allow her remote access to sort out any problems. It didn't work again but she says it is nearly there.

I did my washing but had to use the dryer and at one point when I was down in the garage I noticed the rain was coming down so fast and not draining away and it was flooding the garage and I had to stand with the brush and sweep it all away!

I was going out with Alison to Bronwyn's birthday lunch and as I was still waiting for the photograph of Bronwyn as a child to arrive in the post from her sister I had to go down the drive in the pouring rain but it didn't come. I was going to put it into a frame I had bought for her birthday. Never mind, the thought was there. I can't understand how a letter can come from UK in five days but six days from Hawke's Bay and it hasn't arrived!!

I left to meet Alison who was finishing school at 12.30. I parked my car at school and got into hers. We drove up to the cafe through the pouring rain. There were a group of 12 and we had a jolly lunch. I didn't know any of them but we all got on well.

I got back at 3.30 and as it had stopped raining I took Tot out. When I got back I could see lots of oranges on the ground under the tree next door so I went and picked them up to give to one of my Lions friends who wants to make marmalade. Just as I got in it started to rain again and carried on till about an hour ago. At one point the rain was so bad you could not even see the lights of Tauranga across the bay.

Jon came home from work and watched the end of the Grand Prix and I did all my ironing. I really must sort out some packing!!

We had dinner and watched TV and I fell asleep!

WEATHER
Pouring rain all day 16 degrees

A quiet day!!!

After a late night I was not impressed when Tot wanted to go for a wee at 8.25 so after only five hours sleep I had to get up!

I couldn't do much downstairs as Jon was still in bed and I didn't want to wake him so I just pottered around on the computer!

When Jon got up he was in need of a good fry up and as I had not had as much as him to drink last night I drove. We went to the local garden centre and had poached eggs bacon, toast and tomato and it was very good.

We got back and I took Tot for a walk and Jon sort his clothes out and got the suitcases out. I hate packing. Well, not so much the packing but what I am going to take. I don't want to take too much as I want to do some shopping but I also need enough to wear for when we are in KL and the first few days before I pack - so difficult Lol!

I cooked some nice lamb shanks for dinner and then you make a pie with them and it was very good.

Heather is on the phone right now talking to Jon and when I have had a chat I will be off to bed, too. I can't do late nights now - getting too old!!

WEATHER
Cloudy with some sunny spells and gales later in the afternoon 16 degrees.

Saturday

We managed to wake in time to watch the opening ceremony and I thought it was really good apart from Paul McCartney, he really should give up now along with Elton Jon - far too old and no voice now. Really enjoyed the opening of the games and I think they did very well and felt very proud to be British.I found it very emotional and cried a lot which does not bode well for my behaviour at Kirsty's wedding!!!

So with the morning taken up watching TV we missed coffee so went out and had an early lunch before doing a bit of shopping and collecting my photos. Not too impressed by some of them as they have cut off the heads so I need to call and find out if they will reprint them.

We got back and I took Tot out and Jon set the fire ready to light. When I got back I started to prepare the dinner and Jon kindly did all my housework for me. He does it so well and really puts some good elbow grease into the polishing.

I had a panic making my tarte tatin as the recipe didn't work for the caramel and I had to start all over. I should stick to my tried and tested recipes when I have people coming for dinner and leave the new ones when I am not under pressure.

I managed to get everything done and ready before our friends arrived. It felt a bit like Come Dine With Me!!

Dinner was really good fun and we laughed a lot, ate too much, drank too much and all ended up downstairs playing pool till far too late. It was 3.30 by the time I got to bed which is why I didn't put my blog on and finding myself sitting typing now and sipping water. Why do we do it!!!


WEATHER
Some cloud and showers 14 degrees

Friday

Due to the clear skies overnight we had a really frosty start to the day again - so many frosts this year I have never known anything like it in all the time we have been here. Still, at least the sun is shinning!! And now the tree is lopped the view is amazing!! Not to mention Jon can use his heated seat option on the car!!

Jon left for work and I got ready and left for the Red Cross. We had a busy morning with lots of bric a brac to put out which included some very nice fine bone china. I took the details and checked it on the web when I got home so that we could put a fair price on it. I am sure we should be able to get at least $20 for the sets which are cup, saucer and plate and really pretty.

Sharon had kindly put a bag aside for me. It is a lovely tan, leather handbag with lots of pockets and will be lovely for travelling. It is so nice and with my discount only cost me about 9GBP - I just couldn't say no!!

The morning soon went over and it was time to leave. I stopped off to buy a few things I had forgotten from the supermarket and then went home for lunch.

Avon Carol called with my things and she told me about her friend, the owner of the rented house next door. I had seen two ambulances there last week and apparently the lady, Debbie, had collapsed. She has had a brain tumour in the past and they thought it had started to re grow but after tests it turns out that she had and still has a bad case of vertigo and has been really poorly but hopefully she is on the mend. Carol also told me about another lady I chat to down the road, Margaret, and she is in hospital after a very bad stroke and it seems she won't be able to make it back to her house as it was very severe. Really sad as she is such a lovely lady and I enjoyed chatting to her.

When Carol left I took Tot out and then came home and sorted out my menu for tomorrow night as we have Mike, who works with Jon and is responsible for us being down here in NZ, his girlfriend Bob (Roberta, I think) and Sharon (Red Cross) and her husband Des for dinner tomorrow night. It will be our first dinner party here and I am a little nervous.

I cooked the salmon terrine ready for the starter and there is nothing much else I can do till tomorrow.

Jon came home just as I was finishing bathing the dog. She was really smelly but I had put off bathing her as it was cold so I stoked up the fire and bathed her anyway. She looks and smells so nice now.

Jon went out for our fish and chips and I could not believe I had run out of frozen peas!!! Shock horror, we will have to have salad!

The fish was good but the chips were cold again. I think we might have had enough of Friday night fish and chips.

We watched TV and now I am off to bed so that I am up early to watch the Olympic opening ceremony in the morning which will be our 8.00 am.


WEATHER
Beautiful sunny day 16 degrees

A full day

The sun was out this morning and it was so nice I managed to get one load of washing out before I left for my last stint at the Cancer Society. The morning passed quickly and by 11.30 we had finished all the calls from customers last year and started on the Yellow Pages. The society photocopy and enlarge the pages and highlight the numbers we need to call. It is not as easy as calling people who know about it and with the new system for paying it is going to take longer.

When I had finished I went to do my shopping and got home about 1.30 and just had time to eat some fruit before rushing off to my osteopath appointment. I noticed something different about the kitchen when I got in and was putting the shopping away and realised what it was. The tree people had been in and cut the top of the pohutukawa tree and we now have a view all the way across to Tauranga and it is lovely. The have taken a lot of the middle branches out and it is now very light and open and will make a big difference to that area of the garden.

Fiona gave me a good massage on my back and leg and a good deal of stretching. Only one more treatment before we leave and it is much better now and hopefully it will continue to improve. She has told me to take magnesium to help with the cramp I get in my feet.

I got back and took Tot out and it was so warm and sunny I could have walked for hours.

I brought the washing in and got Jon's dinner prepared and set the fire ready to light. I then did my nails and got ready for my Lions meeting.

I left to pick up Jean and Helen on the way and we headed off into Tauranga.

Our meeting was good and we had a good dinner of roast beef which was so tender. The catering company do the most beautiful vegetables and for pudding we had sticky date pudding and cream. Probably just as well I hadn't had lunch!!

I got back just after nine and Jon didn't mention the tree so not sure if he saw it or it was dark when he got home. I will wait till he notices and see how long it takes!!

WEATHER
Lovely sunny day 17 degrees

Wednesday

I woke after a good night and Totty didn't wake me up for a change.

When I opened the curtains the view across the bay was lovely. There was rising mist all around and then it cleared a little and then more mist, really beautiful.

One of the Lions ladies called me to ask me to print off some jokes for the meeting tomorrow night as they don't have a speaker. I had to look through all my emails to find jokes that are not too rude and it took me a long time to sort them all, copy and paste and then print them, I hope it will be worth it.

I took Tot for her walk and thought we would go further but she wouldn't have any of it and just sat down so we turned around and just did our usual route.

I was doing my nails and watching Mrs Brown's boys and looked at the clock and had a panic! it was 12.45 and I had to be at the Cancer Society for 1.00. I quickly grabbed a cereal bar and off I shot.

The 'loud' lady wasn't there today so it was much quieter. I had two rude men who complained, one about the cost going up for the daffodils. I told him they were the same price as last year and he said 'yes, but they were cheaper two years ago'. It is best not to say anything. Another man said he had had three calls today and put the phone down before I could even apologies not that I think the three calls came from us. You win some you lose some. Only one more shift for me then I am done for this year. I won't be able to help with the bunching this year as we are away when it happens.

I took the unwanted chemo tablets back to the pharmacy today. They are very expensive and I thought they might do what they do in the UK and give them to poorer countries but she said they destroy them. I think it is a shame as I am sure if I could not afford medication I would rather take my chance with secondhand stuff than none at all.

I got back and fed Tot and had a much needed cup of tea. I got the dinner ready and lit the fire.

Jon came home about 6.00 and we had dinner and watched TV.

WEATHER
Misty start followed by sunny spells 17 degrees

A lovely face massage

After another rough, windy night we woke to overcast and heavy skies but at least not raining.

Jon left to go to Auckland before 8.00 and hopefully the drive won't be too bad but there are still lots of roads closed.

I got ready and then Heather called and we had a chat before it was time for me to leave for keep fit.

I got up to the main road and the traffic was really heavy going towards Tauranga and the cars were pretty much bumper to bumper but I didn't know why. I arrived at the hall after just about on time and Diane, the teacher, was outside obviously upset and she came and told me her husband had been taken into hospital that morning as he had had a mini stroke. She should really have been at the hospital with him and not telling us all that the class was off. I hope he will be OK. She is very fit and slim but he is rather overweight which I have always thought strange as she tells us all off if we eat cream and won't let us bring fattening things to morning teas.

So I had nothing to do but go to the post office and then go home. The traffic was still bad and I assumed the traffic was being diverted from the Papamoa Road. I later found out this was correct. Two rivers had burst their banks and the road was flooded and there had been a slip. Nothing could be repaired till the flood water had subsided. Listening to the news the roads are in a bad way and lots of flight have been cancelled in Auckland due to fog. Fortunately, Jon had a good journey to Auckland.

When I got home I took Tot out for her walk and on my way back I noticed lots of oranges on the ground in my neighbours garden so I took Tot in and got a bag and popped through the fence and picked them all up and filled a big plastic shopping bag. My friend's husband, Des, will love them.

I continued sorting out photos and managed to register with a company on line and download them all to be printed and pay for them. All I need to do is go to the shop and collect them. Well, that is LA/UK done only another 15 months to sort now!! I really wish I had kept them up to date!!

I had some lunch and then got some of the recycling things into the car before leaving to go for my facial massage which I had booked.

It was 75 minutes of bliss. She cleansed, steamed, waxed and dyed my brows and did a hand massage while the mask was setting. She then massaged my face, neck, chest and shoulders and it was wonderful and I didn't want it to end.

I was then going to go to my aqua aerobics class but it was too early so I decided to sit near the beach and watch the sea but it started to rain and looked very black over the Mount so I decided to go home. I was glad I did as it rained really hard for an hour or more and the class would not have been on.

I sorted out my shopping list as we have friends coming for dinner this weekend. I also wanted to use things up from the freezer before we go away so needed to check we have enough meals and we do so I won't be doing much cooking.

A man called to ask if he could bring some books round for Lions as he had been clearing out. I now have five big boxes so need to make arrangement to get them over to our book room before we go away.

Jon called and said he had had a busy day and felt tired but he was going to shower and go out to the Viaduct area and have an early dinner and then go to bed. He has lots of meetings tomorrow so he won't be home till late.

I had some beans on toast and watched TV.

WEATHER
Overcast with some heavy showers 17 degrees.

Some very wet weather

The weather as bad all night and we had heavy rain and wind.It has rained all day and is still raining with no let up. There are lots of slips and roads closed around the Bay of Plenty.

I had a quick call to Malcolm this morning as we had promised to call over the weekend and it just didn't happen and I felt bad. We didn't chat for long as I had to go to the Cancer Society to do the telephoning for Daffodil Day.

It was such a horrible drive to get there with the bad weather and just walking from the car I got soaked.

They are using a new system this year and the explanation didn't sound very good with lots more questions to be asked and a form for every customer filled in so I was not looking forward to it. However, it all worked out well and all last years customers have been put on a data base and it was just a matter of phoning and asking if they would like to donate again, getting fax or email information and then the form will be sent to them so no big deal. Once last year's customers have been called we then do cold calling and that is not so nice. I go again on Wednesday and Thursday and hopefully we will still be calling last years customers and won't get on to the new ones till next week and I will have done my duties!!!!

The morning passed by OK apart from one of the ladies who has a particularly loud voice and I could have done with one earplug to block her out a bit and she was really grumpy and negative about it all saying it was more work.

I got home through all the rain and first thing I did was light the fire as it was so miserable and although 17 degrees the inside of our house was cold.

I did some housework and had lunch and in the afternoon I sorted out some photos on the computer. They are from our last trip home and I have never had any printed off for an album so I need to get them done.

Jon came home and is well after a full day at work. He watched the end of the F1 and then we had dinner and watched TV.

Jon is going to Auckland tomorrow so will be up early to leave early for a meeting. I hope the rain stops or he will have a horrible drive.

WEATHER
Heavy rain and strong winds 17 degrees

A wet day

We didn't wake till late this morning, must have been the bad weather making it look dark and so it was later than we thought.

Jon watched the Grand Prix and I changed the sheets and put them on to wash. I needed to lift the mattress as the valance was slipping and I can't do it on my own. I also changed the sheets today as tomorrow I will be doing the telephoning at the Cancer Society so I will be out all morning. I am still not looking forward to it and hope it goes well.

We went out to a cafe for a coffee and on the way back bought some screws and hinges to fix the dinning room chairs which were lifting off the legs but all fixed now.

We went to the Good Food Trading shop which has some lovely food, it is a big deli with lots of organic stuff and unusual foods that you can't find anywhere else.

When we got back it was still too wet to take Totty out so Jon fixed the chairs and I did a few odd jobs and dried the clothes,

We had lunch and read the papers and watched some TV.

We watched the end of the netball which was really exciting and the Magics (our local Bay of Plenty team) won and will bring the trophy across the Tasman for the first time in five years

I cooked roast beef for dinner and it was very good with really good Yorkshire puddings.

It is still raining and Jon has gone to bed and I am off now ready for my early start tomorrow.

WEATHER
Rain all day 15 degrees

Saturday

After our late night we had a nice lie in this morning and even the dog didn't wake up till we did.

We had breakfast and then walked Totty. It wasn't cold but there was a bit of rain in the air.

We went into Tauranga and had a coffee. We had a walk around the shops and I had a $45 loyalty voucher from a handbag shop which was rather nice. We went to have a look and they had a sale on and I found a lovely bag reduced from $229 to $89 and with my voucher it only cost $44 so I was really pleased with that.

I went to buy a garter for Kirsty and found a really nice one which has blue on it so that will be her 'something blue'. We just need the something 'old' now.

I bought a watch at the Red Cross yesterday for $7 and it is really pretty but the bracelet is too big. I wasn't sure it would work so I went into a jewellers and asked him to put a battery in and if it worked to take some links out. He did and it works and I now have a nice watch for not very much money.

It was only 12.00 by the time we had finished shopping and the table for lunch was booked for 1.00 so not enough time to go home so we went and sat in the library and Jon read the papers and I read some magazines. It was really pleasant sitting there in the quiet with such a choice of magazines and passed the time till lunch.

Lunch was at an Italian place on The Strand and they gave us a table overlooking the harbour which was very nice even though it was not sunny. The food was really good and for pudding we shared an Espresso Crem Brulee which was delicious. I was very full at the end and was glad to get home and relax.

We lit the fire and watched TV and read and the afternoon passed nicely.

We just had a sandwich for dinner as we were not that hungry.

Early night tonight after the late one last night.

WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and some light rain 15 degrees

Red Cross Day

Well what can I say. Totty woke me at 2.35 and then I didn't get back to sleep for a long time - last time I looked at the clock was 4.40!!! I hate not being able to sleep!!


Jon got up and I thought he was going to use the exercise bike and went back to sleep and then woke with a shock as it was 7.30 and I needed to be ready to go to work - why is the best sleep the one you should not have??

I rushed around and got ready and Jon left for work and I caught up with myself but I hate being late for anything.
The shop was very quiet this morning and we spent more time chatting - the container is due in to Auckland this week and then hopefully we will have stock to put out.

I left the shop at 1.00 and went to Number 1 Shoes to find the boots that Heather wants. They didn't have them at the first branch I went to but did call the shop in Tauranga to reserve the size there so I had to rush off down to get them.
By the time I got home I was very hungry so had my lunch.

Jon called to say he needs to go up to Auckland to sort some things and asked me if Tuesday and Wednesday would be clear. Going there and back in a day would now be too much for him.

I took Tot out and then came back and did my ironing.

Jon called to say he was going out with the office staff for a drink and would bring the fish and chips back with him.

We watched some TV and then had a chat about Jon's treatment. He is determined that he is not going to have the 'bag' without a fight. he thinks that as he is now so well he doesn't need it. I tried telling him that he is so well because of the treatment and that may not stay the same.

We decided to try calling the surgeon to get the appointment brought forward to next Thursday to find out the results as it seems just too long to wait.

I think I might have a fight on my hands if he sticks to his guns.
WEATHER
Some early cloud and then sunny 16 degrees

Shopping

Really cold again this morning and I could have happily stayed in bed. I did sleep better last night as I shouted at the dog and told her to get back to her bed and wouldn't put her cover on. Surprise, surprise she was all covered up this morning so had managed to do it herself!!!

Jon left early as he had a meeting and I showered and was ready by the time Kirsty phoned which was just as well as it was nearly 10.00 by the time she got off the phone!! Lots more wedding talk and I think she is just about sorted now. She has been for a dress fitting and all is well apart from a bit taken in on the bust. James is sorting suits out next week so needs Jon's measurements. And all the other little bits she was stressing about seem to be sorted now so she can relax.

I took Tot out and did some housework. I was going to go shopping but as it was nearly lunchtime thought I would have lunch first and then go.

I took my ring in to be cleaned and used my free voucher. The lady told me it is getting thin at the back but it is very old so I will have to make sure I only wear it when I go out.

I bought some souvenirs to take home and a few presents for people so I think that is sorted now. I bought a very nice lemon zester as mine makes the bits too big.

I went to look for some boots that Heather wants. She bought a pair when she was here and the cats have scratched them but I couldn't find the same ones. I did get a new pair of flat walking shoes for me that I needed.

I then did my supermarket shop and went home. The owner of the house next door which is rented out, lives a few doors down from here and on my way back there were two ambulances outside so not sure what has happened.

I put all my shopping away and brought in the washing and lit the fire and had a cup of tea. Jon came in about 6.00 and I cooked a vegetable curry with chickpeas - this is our 'no meat' day but I don't think Jon was impressed even though it was tasty, he likes his meat!!

The other house next door, where the old lady lived, has had family clearing out for the past two days. They left this afternoon and as they didn't pick any oranges from the tree and there are now lots on the floor I went and picked another big bag and I will take some to Sharon and Les tomorrow. The house across the road has a lovely tree full of oranges, too and they seem to be leaving them all to fall and rot. I think I might make some marmalade.

We watched Coronation Street, poor Rita has now been stuck under a pile of rubble for six days and they still haven't found her!!!

WEATHER
Another really cold start followed by sunshine 17 degrees.

A busy day

Our house must have been very hot last night as every window had condensation on this morning!!! Jon's car was very white and he should have parked under the tree!!

Heather called for a quick chat this morning to tell me how things are going, Kirsty is going to call me in the morning.

I got ready and went to collect Bronwyn. They are finally putting the top surface on the main road so there was a detour this morning so it took me a bit longer to get across to Maungatapu.

We stopped at the post office as I needed to send a parcel and then we went into town and had a coffee. I was very good and resisted the lovely date scone, and almond croissants and all the other lovely pastries and just had a coffee.

After a walk round the shops and Bronwyn bought a jacket from Wallis I took her to her hair appointment and her husband will pick her up later. She gets her moon boot off on Friday and so will be able to drive again and is really looking forward to it.

I got home and took Tot out and then had some lunch and left again for my optician's appointment. As usual there was no change in my prescription, been the same for years so I was able to order my contact lens. They have a new system and you can order on line and believe it or not they come from the UK and are cheaper than the ones from Oz!! They have free postage and packing offer at the moment so I ordered a whole year and save $30 and the years lens are only about 80GBP so very cheap.

I had a look in Farmers, our only department store, and I found a nice coat. I have been looking for sometime now but as I didn't want black it was difficult. This one is navy herringbone and not too heavy and it was in the sale and only $60 so a real bargain. I also found a nice skirt that will travel well and be very useful to roll up and still look good.

I got home in time to change into my 'easy to undress clothes' for my osteopath appointment and off i went again. Totty was very confused with all my coming and going.

She was a bit more gentle today as I told her it was very painful last time. I have an appointment for next week. It is a little better but by no means is it right. Only a couple more sessions so fingers crossed.

I lit the fire when I got back and had a cup of tea and then bought some books for my eReader ready for our trip. I have been reading the Anne of Green Gables series and a lot of them are free to download but I needed to go onto Wikipedia to find out the correct order. I think I have them all now. I thought I had downloaded Fifty Shades of Grey as it appears in my library list although I have not been billed for it but it is only the front cover of it, a bit of advertising I think - as if it needs any!!!! I am all set with my holiday reading now with a few by Maeve Binchy and two by Penny Vincenzi I think that is more than enough.

Jon stayed at the office all day today and is now feeling really well and not so tired so all good.

I cooked the dinner and we watched the TV programme about Mo Molem which was very good.

I finally managed to book our tickets to visit Buckingham Palace when we are home. Quite a difficult site to work your way around but it is all done now and I just hope we have a fine day for it.

WEATHER
Cold, frosty start but sunny and 17 degrees later.

A good load of logs

After a lot of overnight wind and rain it was lovely to wake to a sunny and warm morning. Yesterday I was walking around the house with three layers and a scarf and this morning cropped gym pants and a T shirt!!

I went off to my keep fit class and Jon went to have his MRI scan. There is no point in me going with him as they don't tell you anything and I can't hold his hand!!

Keep fit was good and after the school holidays the class was back to normal size.

The osteopath called to change my appointment for tomorrow to 4.00 so I have had to rearrange my day as I also have an appointment at Specsavers and I am taking Bronwyn out for coffee!!

I went to the supermarket after class to buy some fish to make a fish pie and then went home to wait for the call to see if the firewood was going to arrive.

I spent ages on the computer cleaning up my emails and looking for some photos that I knew we had on the computer but couldn't find. I need to work a little more on that as I found them in one place but not the main library and I don't know why!!!

At 1.00 I heard a bang downstairs and when I went to the front door a lady was just walking up the drive - out logs had arrived. I went down to open the garage door and they managed to back the Ute right in. The phone rang and I rushed to answer it and it was Jon to tell me he had had a text to say they were on the way with the wood!!!

It is a really good looking load and so much more than the last lot so hopefully it will see us through the winter now.

I took Tot out for her walk and it was so lovely and warm outside.

I made some lunch and started to stack the logs and then it was time to go to my Aqua aerobics class.

All the small hot pools were closed today as they are slowly renovating the pools so only the big exercise pool was open and it was very warm. We had a really good class and it is now so nice to notice the longer days - summer will be here before you know it.

I got home and got stuck in to moving logs. Jon came home and between the two of us we soon got them stacked. The smell of the wood is so nice.

I then felt too hot to light the fire but the weatherman said it would get down to 4 degrees tonight so we did. This wood is really good and for the first time I didn't have to sit with my 'granny' blanket round me and even Totty was panting which is a first in this house. Hopefully, we will now be cosy.

The fish pie recipe was enough to make three so I can put two in the freezer and it was very yummy!

WEATHER
Sunny 16 degrees

Another wet day.

It rained all night and was still raining and very windy this morning. the tide was in and it looked very choppy out there.

I stayed in all day and to keep warm did a lot of housework and clearing out cupboards and drawers. We seem to gather a lot of junk. I have bagged it all up and will take it to the Red Cross on Friday.

Bronwyn called me and we arranged to go out for coffee on Wednesday after my osteopath appointment. I have since had a call to say the osteopath needs to change the time. I think I must have had the vacuum cleaner on as she left a message.

I did manage to get Totty out for a walk and it was surprisingly warm out of the house. The firewood people called to say that if it was dry tomorrow they would deliver the wood. the forecast is for dry so fingers crossed they are correct.

I had to try all the washing in the dryer today so it was going for most of the day.

I decided to make a coffee cake this afternoon. I have not had the best results since getting my new mixer and today was no exception, my cake sank!! After going onto the internet to find out why cakes sink I think I am being over zealous with my new mixer and over beating. So next time I will be more careful. The cake looks fine now it has the buttercream on it and I am sure it will taste OK.

When I was getting all the ingredients out of the pantry to make the cake I noticed mouse droppings on one of the shelves!!! I thought I had checked and cleaned all the shelves but as I don't use this one maybe I didn't. I found LOTS of mouse droppings on the shelf and had to clean it all. I really, really hope it was just missed and not another mouse!!!!

I cooked some lamb medallions for dinner with stir fry veg and we watched the end of the Coronation Street special of the top 50 scenes which was very enjoyable.

WEATHER
Wet and very windy all day 16 degrees.

A very wet day

We woke to rain and we are going to bed to still more rain.

It was too wet to take Totty out this morning. I made poached eggs on toast for breakfast but as I had to use glass dishes to poach the eggs in (my poacher does not work on an induction hob) they were a little overdone but still tasted good.

We went along to my friend Carol as Jon was going to fit a panel heater on the wall for her. Unfortunately, she did not know what her wall was made of and Jon did not have the correct bit so he will get one from work tomorrow and finish it one evening after work.

Carol had baked scones for us and so we joined her for coffee and scones and it was very pleasant. It was lovely to sit in a house that has a heat pump and feel the warmth - I would love a heat pump. We chatted for a while and then we went home.

I prepared lunch early, just some soup, as we had to leave for the cinema by 2.00.

We drove into town through some heavy rain and managed to find a car park which was not too far away to walk in the rain.

Jon bought an ice cream and we went in. We were glad we booked yesterday as the cinema, which is very small, was very full and we would have ended up at the front which would have been too close.

The film. The Door, with Helen Mirren was not the best film I have ever seen and difficult to follow and some of the acting was pretty poor. I am not sure how well it was received in the UK. I came out feeling very unsettled.

On the way back to the car, still in the rain, we saw a young man lying on the floor and a lot of shouting. There were people around him and one on the phone so I didn't bother to find out what was happening and we carried on walking to the car park. An ambulance came down the street and turned into the car park. I knocked on his window and told him the man was down the street on the floor. He told us that they had been told to wait for police back up as the man had been reported as 'smashing windows with his fists' and not to approach. I will need to get the paper tomorrow to find out what it was all about. I am sure drugs or alcohol will play a part.

We got back home after stopping to buy two bags of firewood from the petrol station just in case we run out. I will need to chase up the firewood people tomorrow. No doubt the wood will now be wet after all this rain today!!

We had a cup of tea and Jon did the banking and I watched the Tribute to The Queen by Prince Charles and I really enjoyed it. It was so nice to see some lovely 'norma' family photos and cine films of them.

I cooked dinner Beef and Basil stir fry which was very good.

We watched the special episode of Coronation Street tonight 18 months behind. It wa really good but ended before they got Molly out!!! We now need to wait till Thursday!!! I know what happens but Jon doesn't.

More rain forecast for tomorrow and then three days of sun - hopefully.

WEATHER
Wet all day 15 degrees

Another lovely day

No frost again this morning, I hope it lasts. We had a little lie in today which was nice.

Jane called this morning and we had a chat and then she chatted to Jon.

We took Tot out for her walk and it was so lovely and warm. It always surprises me when I get out how warm it actually is after being in the house which is so cold.

As the firewood didn't arrive last night I phoned them again this morning but had to leave a message.

We went into Tauranga and had a coffee and a lovely date scone. I wish I could make scones like this cafe they are so light, they put orange zest in with the butter and it goes so well with the dates but I did only eat one quarter.

We then went to the library and had a walk around the shops and bought some birthday cards.

We went across to the Mount and had a look around the shops there and then went to the Brazilian restaurant where we had a table booked for lunch. It was a One Day voucher and we had a shared tapas followed by two mains and two puddings and all for $50 (25GBP) so pretty good. The meal was OK but I don't think we would go there again.

We left there and picked up some bread on the way home. Jon is going to fit a wall heater for my friend but he felt too tired after lunch so we went home and I called her to say we would come round in the morning before he gets tired.

When we got back we lit the fire and Jon had a sleep in the chair. Still no firewood or message so I called again and had to leave another message. I think we are going to run out soon so just as well it was not cold tonight. The temperature only dropped to 12 and that makes such a difference.

As we had a big lunch I just made an omelette for dinner and we watched the programme about the making of Coronation Street which was interesting. We have the big episode on tomorrow night.

WEATHER
Sunny start then some cloud 16 degrees

Friday

It was an early start today as I was at the Red Cross and actually made it before 9.00.

It wasn't very busy in the shop today but the morning went over quite fast. Les had to go out for an appointment so it was just Sharon and I for most of the morning.

I stopped off to buy some beer on the way home and was more than ready for lunch by the time I reached the house.

Jon was not home and so I called him at 4.00 to tell him to come home which he did. He is not as tired today as he was yesterday.

We were supposed to have a delivery of logs today but by 6.30 they hadn't arrived so I rang but the answerphone was on so I left a message. I hope they come tomorrow as we will run out soon.

Jon went to get the fish and chips and it was really good tonight. I don't know why it is so bad one week and so good another.

We watched Coronation Street which is just at the part where they have the big train crash which happened in the UK 18 month ago!!!

WEATHER
Cloudy with some sun15 degrees

A Kiwi Funeral

Due to a cloudy start there was no frost this morning which was nice.

Jon left for work and I did the washing and then took Tot out. We managed to get all the way round the block before the bin man came!!

I cleaned and laid the fire ready to light in case Jon came home before I did.

I got ready and left to meet Janice outside the church. I was not looking forward to my first and I hope only, Kiwi funeral.

There were lots of people, over 150 I should think. It was in the catholic church which is huge and although old by Kiwi standards not really that old by European standards and looked like a theatre but very nice.

Peter's coffin was already in the church which is different to what we have. The first song was a recording of Ave Maria and sung by a young man, Chas, who Peter had helped over the years to progress with his singing. Unfortunately, he could not be there to sing in person as he was singing with the NZ orchestra in Wellington.

The service was very nice and lots of people spoke about Peter all saying what a lovely man he was with a wicked sense of humour which must have been very comforting for Christine.

Then they had a Scottish piper come in and pipe his coffin out to the car. Outside people were collecting little flowers and putting them on the coffin and also speaking to the family who were all near the car. I didn't do that as I was a bit upset and thought I would wait till I felt better before speaking to Christine. He was then taken back to the chapel of rest and tomorrow the family will go down to Wanganui (down near Wellington) for a private burial.

We all then went into the hall and there was a lovely tea set out and everybody chatted. Christine was very brave and managed to speak to everybody. I saw her when I was leaving and she thanked me for my email. So sad.

I then went off to collect a parcel from the post office before going to the supermarket to do my shopping.

When I got home Jon was in. He said he thinks he has done too much this week and after a long meeting this morning he said he felt really tired and so came home at 2.00

We had a cup of tea and watched the news before I made our dinner.

I was surprised to see a letter had been returned that I had sent to my nephew on 20 March. It had a little T shirt in it for his daughter and it was returned as they said 'not known at their address'. Not sure what happened there. He has now moved and I changed his address in my book so need to find out his old address and see what I did wrong!! Not sure where the parcel has been sitting for the last three and a half months????

WEATHER
Cloudy start followed by sus 15 degrees.

Early start again this morning as I was off to the Mount for an aquacise class. It was really, really, cold again with a heavy frost and when I left I noticed there was ice on the bottom step of the porch!!!

I arrived at the pools just at the start of the class. the teacher was Shelly who is OKish and at least better than Linda who was on a break for school holidays. The sun was shinning and it was really lovely to be back at the Mount pools - shame it is only for this one Wednesday!

After the class we went across for coffee and sat chatting and it was so warm I had to move into the shade.

On my way home I stopped in for some bananas which I had forgotten yesterday. I also bought a paper to see what had happened to the man who was shot in the head here in Welcome Bay yesterday. It was only a pellet gun and the man is fine but he was shot through the window of his house. Apparently, it is a rough area of Welcome Bay and it was gang related but they have not caught the man yet.

I stopped off at the osteopath for my appointment and I love the massage bit but the stretching can be painful but if it works that will be fine. However, I can't feel much improvement so far.

I got home and made some lunch and then Carol, Avon lady, came to bring my things and we sat chatting. Carol is the mother in law of my osteopath. When I went to the door with her to say goodbye the little kitten from next door came running up the steps and wanted to play. she is so adorable and all fluffy with a really pretty face and I think must be lonely as they are out at work all day and she is a bit young to be left in my opinion. she was playing around our feet and having a great time hiding in all the ornamental grasses in the flower bed at the side of the house - kittens are so cute when they play. I picked her up when Carol drove out to keep her away from the car. The neighbour came home and I put her on the fence and walked up our steps but she followed me and when I closed the door she was trying to get in and climbing up the glass and miaowing and I felt really mean.

I then got Totty ready to go out and the kitten's tail almost trebled in size when she saw the dog and she hid under the porch. When we got back from Our walk I couldn't see her. I shouldn't encourage her to come over as she will get used to it.

I lit the fire and Jon came home and was tired so I made him a cup of tea.

I cooked dinner and my legs are both so sore I can hardly move. I think if there is no improvement by next week I will have to see a doctor.

I then took Tot out

WEATHER
Sunny 15 degrees

A very full day!

I was up and ready to go to my keep fit class very early as Heather said she would call and I knew I would be late if I was not prepared. Heather and I had a nice chat and she told me she is planning a sponsored bike ride to raise money for the Cancer Lodge here in NZ and the Bowel Cancer Society in UK. She has been very active and found out lots of information already. I am sure if she continues in the same enthusiastic way it will be very good.

I then went out to my class and it was sooooo cold outside and everywhere was white but with a lovely blue sky. Once at the class we got moving and soon warmed up but I am still having trouble moving my shoulder and my hamstring does not seem to be much better.

I stayed for a quick coffee and then came home and took Tot out for her walk and it was by now much warmer.

I then got ready to go over to my friend, Diane's, house for lunch. I have never been to her house before as we usually meet for coffee after swimming. she told me they built the house four years ago and it is really beautiful with the most amazing views across to the harbour and the Mount and Matakana Island. It was so warm we sat out on her deck and talked. I had noticed she limps but have never asked why and she also shakes sometimes. She told me today that she has Parkinson's disease which is why they had a lift put in the house when she built it. she can still use the stairs but they put it in in case she needs it later.

We had a lovely lunch and talked so much. Her mum is recovering from a bowel cancer operation and she is 82 and doing really well. Diane is off to Hawaii next week for three weeks and staying on Waikiki Beach (not sure if that is spelt properly). It sounds lovely and she is looking forward to hot weather and shopping.

I left there and went straight over to the Mount Hot Pools for my aqua class. I met Carol on the way in and had a chat. I was just leaving the changing rooms when they announced there had been a and I thought they said a 'vehicle incident' and to evacuate the pool. I was looking round for the vehicle. What they actually said was a' fecal incident'!!!! School holidays!!! So everybody had to get out of the main pool and we all went into the smaller hotter pool. Our teacher came over and said it was going to take two hours to clean the pool so there would be no class and we would get our next admission free. The five of us that were there sat in the hot pools and had a chat, not much exercise but very pleasant.

I drove home and Jon was in and had lit the fire and fed the dog so I made a cup of tea and then I had some toast and prepared some dinner for Jon before going out to my Lions meeting.

There was not much to discuss tonight as it is the start of a new year so we just discussed committees and a few things. We talked about the funeral for Christine's husband which will be on Thursday. Lions groups often do the catering for funerals but there are expected to be about 250 attending so Christine thought it would be too much for us and has got caterers in but has asked if we can pass the food around and help with the tea and coffee. she sent a message to say we should watch out for all the old men from the bowls club as they will stuff their pockets with food if you don't watch them!!! Apparently they have a reputation for doing that at funerals. A good feed like Blanche from Coronation Street!!

I got home quite early after stopping in to the supermarket for some bread to make lunch for Jon tomorrow.

I had a coffee and read my magazine and now it is bed time as my fingers are now very cold.

WEATHER
Sunny 16 degrees

Kiwi fruit time

I had lots of mixed up dreams last night probably due to thinking of my friend. I had emailed her last night and she replied this morning to say thanks and that she was in total shock as he had not had any symptoms of any kind, terrible news.

I was really busy doing my housework this morning as I was going to pick Alison up at 12.30 so wanted to get everything done. It is surprising how much you can get done when you are in a hurry and I also took Tot out. I had wanted to watch the tennis but I didn't have time never mind, poor Murray.

I went to collect Alison and we drove over to the Mount. I was going to try and walk up it but didn't think the osteopath would be too impressed if I undo all the work she has done over the last few weeks. Even walking around the Mount has made it very painful again. It was lovely walking around and there were so many people out today and groups of children from play schemes and groups.

After our walk we went along to the Kiwi fruit orchards which belong to the owner of Genera. He always tells me to go and help myself once the pickers have been in and this is the third year Alison and I have been and picked. However, the pickers this year must have been very efficient as we had to look a little harder than usual but we had soon filled a bucket each and that is enough for now. Jon can always get Kiwi fruit from work anyway but it is nice to PYO.

We then came back here for a cup of tea and a chat before I took her back. Alison has a daughter living in London and she is expecting a baby in three weeks and her partner is from Newmarket and lives just down the road from our house. What a coincidence. Alison is going to the UK in September to visit her new granddaughter.

When I got home Jon was back so I was glad to see he was being sensible. He said the tiredness comes over him very suddenly and he knows he just has to come home but he is still doing well.

Jon finished watching the end of the Grand Prix and I cooked dinner and then we watched some TV - Lewis but I fell asleep before the end!!

I have a busy day tomorrow. One of the ladies I know from swimming has invited me over to her house for lunch which will be nice. I also have keep fit, aqua aerobics and a Lions business meeting. Not sure when I am going to get the dinner cooked!!

WEATHER
Another lovely day 15 degrees

Some sad news for me.

We both had a really good sleep after last night and it was nice to wake at a normal time.

Jon watched the F1 while I had a shower. What a lot of rain in the UK. NZ comes into its own in the winter. You expect good weather in the summer but you appreciate good weather in the winter when you know it should be cold!! We will miss it so much when we leave.

We took Tot out and then went into Tauranga and sat outside another cafe, that Jon has never been to, and enjoyed a coffee and a muffin. I find all these lovely places to go to, such a hard job!!

We then popped into the supermarket for a paper and a few bits.

We got back and sat on the deck and read the papers and watched the families in the park and the people out on kayaks and sail boards not to mention the hardy little souls who were actually playing 'in' the water!! Far too cold for me. I had to change into a T shirt as it was too hot.

We had lunch, leftover pork from last nigh in Turkish bread and it was very yummy.

Later this afternoon I set the fire as I thought Jon might want a sleep but he has manged to stay awake all day which is a good sign.

We do know it is winter here as once the sun starts to go down the temperature drops quite quickly.

I made a vegetable, chickpea and chicken curry for dinner tonight. Just as I was finishing cooking a friend from Lions called me to tell me that the husband of one of our ladies from Lions had died suddenly on Friday. I feel so sad about it, he was such a lovely man and I had had a lovely chat to him at our last meeting. I had thought he was not looking good but they had just come back from his brothers funeral so it was understandable. How cruel is life when things like this happen. This lady, Christine, is only the same age as me but her husband was older than her, so sad. I have emailed her but what do you say as nothing can make it better.

WEATHER
Another beautiful day 15 degrees

I love the sun.

We both had a terrible night's sleep last night. I was up with Tot twice and to go to the loo and just could not sleep!! I hate it when that happens. Jon was a awake and could not sleep either.

I was glad when it was time to get up this morning. I was showered and dressed when Heather called and chatted to Jon and then I spoke to her and Jon went for a shower. By the time we had finished it was too late for breakfast so we decided to take Tot out first and then go into Tauranga and have brunch.

We went to Bravo in Red Square and it was so lovely and sunny sitting outside. Jon enjoyed the 'Big Bravo' breakfast and I had eggs Benedict which was lovely. We are really lucky to live in Tauranga with such a lovely climate.

We then walked around the shops and I found a digital thermometer and hopefully this will stop me getting nasty burns like I have on my arm at the moment, or maybe I am just clumsy!!

We looked in a shop that, from the outside, looked very expensive but when we walked around found it to be very nice and we bought some nice wine glasses and some napkins.

By the time we got back ti was well after 1.00. I made a fruit salad which we ate instead of lunch and I put the pork hock in to roast.

The rest of the afternoon we spent sitting on the deck and enjoyed the sun. Jon went for a sleep at about 4.00 and I read my book. He looks better today but he does need to have his rest times.

Dinner was good, pork hock with Savoy cabbage and apples.

We watched some TV and then it was bedtime. Hopefully, we will sleep better tonight.

WEATHER
Sun all day 16 degrees

Beautiful sunny day.

It was quite cold this morning when I got up and I could have stayed in bed quite easily also some frost about but clear sunny sky.

Jon left for work and said he would come home when he felt tired!!

I went out to work and it was so nice to be able to get there without any traffic - school holidays. When I arrived Bianca was there and Les was looking after the baby so would not be in. They are still trying to get a routine sorted out and arrange hours and shifts, things will be easier at the end of the month when the baby has two days a week at the nursery.

It was very quiet in the shop today as we are low on stock but we put out what we had and then just tidied the rails.

I left at 1.00 and went for my hair appointment. My hairdresser was telling me about her wedding which is booked for September. She is going to Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Her partner is from the UK and his parents are coming down and her parents will be there but that is it. They will have their honeymoon there and a reception when they get back here to NZ. all sounds very nice and stress free.

When I got back I had lunch and as expected Jon was still at work. I caught up with Neighbours and then Jon came in just after 4.00 and looked very tired and pale. There had been some problems at work which needed to be sorted by Monday, at least he knows he did too much so hopefully he won't do it again.

I took Tot out for her walk and it was so lovely and warm out today with lovely clear skies and hopefully the weekend will be good. Looking at the forecast for the UK this weekend and it looks like a very wet Grand Prix!! They still had fog in Auckland this morning so lots more delayed flights. We had a cup of tea and watched some TV.

We had our fish and chips for dinner and watched more TV. I have never watched so much TV as I have lately. I have so many programmes recorded on the Sky box and need to get them cleared so we can record stuff when we are away.

WEATHER
After a frosty start sunny 17 degrees.

Back to normal!!

I was up early so that I could get sorted out and go and do my shopping before Jon got home. Things don't always go to plan!

I was just about to go out when I had a phone call from the past president of our Lions group to congratulate me on the 'wonderful Tail Twister' that I gave the other night. It was very nice of her to call and I have now had four phone calls telling me it was very good - I am very flattered.

By the time I left it was late but was not sure what time Jon would be home and he had told me to go and do the shopping anyway so knew I would probably not be in when he got back.

After the shopping I popped round to see Bronwyn to take her some magazines that I had read. she was out with her husband so I just came back.

I had a letter from my gynaecologist to say that my biopsy was fine and I just need to see him again in six months - so relieved.

Jon was home and had got back about 11.00 so he hadn't been in long. So nice to have him back but he does look tired and has lost weight. He told me that they had given him a higher dose of radiation for the last few days. I also think that after six weeks it is now starting to tell on his body and he has been lucky to have got away with so few symptoms. At least now all he has to do is rest for the next few weeks. He will go back to work tomorrow but he is going in late and will come home when he feels he has had enough.

I did some washing and then made lunch. Jon was sleeping off and on in the chair. I made a cake after lunch and then took Tot out. It is such a lovely day here today with no wind and very mild. We are really lucky as they have fog in Hamilton and hundreds of flights have been cancelled to and from Auckland. The fog was still around this evening but they hope to get flights out tomorrow. The man on the news said 'you expect to get this in London but not in NZ'. Lol

I cooked a lovely lamb and pasta dinner tonight and we watched TV. I haven't sat down much since Jon got back. I have been very lazy over the past six weeks.

Off for an early night as I have work tomorrow and I might actually be able to sleep tonight.

WEATHER
Beautiful sunny day 15 degrees

One to go!!

It was nice to wake to a dry morning and it was dry for most of the day. The sky was a lovely pink colour this morning which does not show up on a photo I took.

Heather called this morning and we chatted about her holiday in Valencia and her very bumpy flight back due to bush fires around Valencia and thunderstorms around Barcelona. She is keeping herself so busy and reminds me of when I was young!!!!!

I went to my osteopath appointment and she massaged my back and I also told her about problems with my shoulders so she did some work on them, too. I think I might like to keep up appointments with her once a month once she gets me sorted as she does such a good job.

I got back and did a bit of housework and then took Tot out for a walk. It was, in fact, warmer outside the house than inside!!

I went and picked a bag of oranges and lemons from my neighbour's trees as they are now starting to fall and roll down our drive and as nobody is in the house I might as well have them.

I caught up with some reading this afternoon as I have a whole stack of magazines which I have not read and sitting in the sun it was very pleasant. I also listened to some music on my iPod which was nice. I still can't find a radio station I like since the one I used to listen to closed down.

Jon called this evening and was very happy to be packing up his things ready to come home and I am very much looking forward to him being home. His treatment tomorrow is at 8.45 so he should be home late morning. I will be happy once he has had his MRI and we know the results.

I watched some TV and I am going to try for an early night again. I did manage to get to bed before midnight last night. There was an earthquake last night and I thought I noticed something but wasn't sure. They noticed it a lot in Wellington!!

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud and showers 15 degrees

A very wet day

I went to bed and it was raining, I woke to rain and I am just about to go to bed again and it is still raining!!

It was really cold this morning but not frosty just wet. I went to my keep fit class and soon warmed up.

I then popped to the supermarket to buy my magazine and then to the post office to send some letters.

I then went back home and and stayed in for the rest of the day. I replied to lots of overdue emails and when it go so cold, my fingers wouldn't work, I lit the fire. If it continues I think we will need another load of wood.

I had my lunch and watched the recorded Wimbledon coverage, mainly the match with Federer and the very good game with Serena Williams.

Jon called just to say he was fine. He has not had so much rain in Hamilton and managed to get his walk around the lake but had to take the shuttle bus to the hospital for his treatment. Only two to go!!

I watched more TV and now I am going to try and have an early night for a change and hopefully I will be able to sleep without having to get up for Tot. she hasn't been out today so there is a good chance I will need to get up with her.

WEATHER
Rain since last night 15 degrees

Last week!!

It was like a 'normal' day today. Jon got up and ready and left for the office!!

I spent the morning doing my washing, housework and walked the dog. It is school holidays here now and so there are lots of children about and I usually get stopped to let them 'pet' the dog.

Jon came home for lunch and we had a cooked meal and I made him a sandwich to take for his tea. He left about 1.30. I finished my cleaning and did some ironing and re made the bed.

My friend Ros called for a chat and she is so happy to have her daughter over here in NZ and was waiting for them to arrive from Auckland to stay with her for a few days so she won't be at keep fit tomorrow.

I lit the fire about 4.00 and watched some TV. Jon texted to say he had arrived and was waiting for his treatment.

I had a snack for my dinner and watched TV. The weather forecast is bad for tomorrow and they tell us to expect heavy rain, wind and thunder!! It was so lovely today but then it is winter!

WEATHER
Lovely sunny day 16 degrees

A beautiful sunny day

We had a nice Sunday lie in this morning and it wasn't as cold as yesterday morning.

After breakfast we took Tot out for her walk. We came across a stray dog who was more than interested in Tot and we had to shut at it to go away. I hate stray dogs and this one looked particularly nasty but it did go when we chased it - twice!!

We went up to Gate Pa for coffee as we wanted to go to the kitchen shop to buy a digital meat thermometer. It was not such a good choice as the coffee was not the best and the muffin that Jon had was really not good. To add insult to injury the kitchen shop had sold out of digital thermometers till next week.

We then went to Fraser Cove as Jon had a hair appointment. We went into the Warehouse to buy a drill bit and then I sat in the car and read the newspaper and Jon went for his appointment. It was really nice sitting in the sun.

We went home for lunch and Jon said we should go out for a walk as it was such a lovely day. I suggested going to the local waterfalls, about a ten minute drive down the road from us. We went there in 2009 but haven't been since and I had forgotten how steep it was to get down to them. Going down is fine but the walk back up is a killer. The falls were lovely and the exercise was good for both of us!!

We got back and Jon fixed the new heater panel to the wall in the downstairs office and then did the banking. I uploaded the photos and started to check the photo files to see when we last visited the waterfalls. I found that we were missing some files and then I spent a couple of hours trying to locate them - no luck so far.

I cooed dinner and then we watched some TV.

WEATHER
Warm and sunny 16 degrees