More wet weather

This is by far the worst Christmas holiday weather we have had in the last four years and there seems no end to it.

We woke to rain again and rushed about getting ready as we had to get Totty to the kennels by 10.00 and it is a 45 minute drive so we had to leave by 9.15 and we just about made it.

Totty was very quiet in the car for a change and sat at my feet and was happy to be covered with a towel and she hardly moved - maybe I should have been doing that all this time.

We arrived at the kennels and I am happy to say they are really lovely people and took to Tot straight away and the man was happy to pick her up and carry her in his arms off to the 'little dog enclosure' which is by their house so they can keep an eye on them. The girl on reception asked me to fill in the form and needed next of kin and I told her we had nobody here in NZ. She said it was just in case anything happened to us, which she hoped it wouldn't, and they needed to know what to do with the dog. Don't worry she said, I'll keep her!!! If Tot is OK there I will probably use them when we go to the UK in May for Jane's wedding.

We carried on to Rotorua and thought we would visit the Agrodome which is a sheep farm and has a show of sheep shearing and dog trails as well as a farm tour. When we arrived it was very wet and we could see no point in going on a tractor ride to see animals in the rain so we left and hopefully we will get to visit another day.

We went into Rotorua and round the shops as there was little else to do in the rain.

We found a nice place to have lunch and then we drove home still in the rain!!

We had a cup of tea and I started to teach Heather how to knit again. This time we started with just ten stitches and once she got the hang of it we started the hat. She is doing really well considering she is left handed and we have managed to do the rib part of the hat so we will take it with us and she can do a little each day.

I have decided I might start knitting again as I find it quite relaxing, nothing too difficult to get me back into it.

We started to sort out our things to take with us and Jon and Heather went out for fuel and I cooked dinner and did some washing and drying.

After dinner we finished packing and now it is time for bed and hopefully we might get some better weather for our trip.

WEATHER
Overcast and showers all day 22 degrees

Christmas lunch

We woke to a much nicer day today and as Jon had a valet booked for his car we thought we would just walk up to the garden centre for coffee but I didn't think it was a good idea to leave the house open to a man we don't know from Adam so we just waited till he had finished.

I rang Nosh, a nice food shop, and asked if they had any fresh turkeys and they did so after going for a coffee we went and bought one. Fortunately, they had one that was just about 8lbs and more than enough for us. I took the cold bag and ice blocks to put it in the car as it was so warm.

We then went to the shop I had bought Jon's Christmas present from as the power bag had no power packs!! They are supposed to give them when you buy the bag as they don't put them in the bag as they could be stolen but the sales person forgot!!

We then drove into Tauranga and Heather did some souvenir shopping and we went for lunch which was very nice but a bit hot sitting outside.

Heather decided she wanted me to teach her to knit. Her friend has had a baby and she wants to knit it something!!! Never having knitted a stitch she thought she would start on a jacket. The lady in the shop said a hat would be a good start and so we bought a pattern and some wool and needles and took them home - watch this space!!

We had thought about going out to McLaren Falls but by the time we had finished shopping it was time to get home and put the turkey in the oven.

I prepared all the dinner and Heather sat in the sun and as it was so hot I gave her a bowl of cold water to put her feet in. Jon had a sleep on the sofa.

I started to show Heather how to knit but sitting outside was far too hot to learn so we tried again when she came in. I found her some pictures on the Internet and she followed them to cast on but it all looked strange as her tension was not good so we had to take it out. I have now suggested we start with just ten stitches till she gets used to it and we will go from there. We have the added problem of her being left handed!!!

The turkey dinner was very nice and we all enjoyed it and now Heather does not feel she has missed out. It is a shame she did not tell me sooner she wanted a Christmas dinner as it would have been much better to cook it on Christmas Day as today was so hot in the kitchen.

We had a Heston Blumen whatever his name is, pudding and it was really yummy.

We watched some TV and I did my ironing and now I am feeling very tired so I am off to bed.

WEATHER
Sunny spells and hot 25 degrees but feels much hotter.

A P.S. FROM YESTERDAY
When we were driving to the shops yesterday we were behind a scruffy looking car and in the outside lane was a van type old people carrier thing with some young lads in. One of the lads was hanging out of the window and holding a cigarette in the air. The scruffy car driver was having a conversation with them, we were in slow moving traffic, and he pulled his car close and they passed him something out. We drove on a bit and the car in front then pulled right over to the other car nearly smashing into him and he gave him something before roaring off in his car and screeching across the roundabout and tearing off at great speed down the road. We assume it was drugs but what a very odd way to buy them!!!! Never a policeman when you need one.

Another wet day

Another night of heavy rain and very grey this morning.

We had breakfast and then had a long video call to Jane and Jason before going out to the Mount to have a look around the shops but we didn't buy anything.

We popped into the bar my hairdresser's husband owns and had some lunch. The food was good but the service was slow as only one waiter but still very nice.

We then went to see if we could buy a turkey as Heather would like a Christmas dinner. Why she didn't tell me before I don't know. We didn't find a turkey and will have one more go tomorrow and if not she will have to make do with a 'big chicken'!!!

We went to Bayfair shopping centre and in four years I have never seen it so busy with people parking in the streets near the centre!!! We bought a few things one of which is a train that fits on the trunk of the Christmas tree and Jon and Heather thought was really nice and now that it is in place it is sort of cute - video to follow on FB.

We came home and it was not such good weather here as on the coast some 15km away. We drove to Welcome Bay as Heather wanted to see the old house. The garage is now more or less finished but no door yet and I have to say it does not look that nice. I don't know why he has put a different colour roof on unless he intends to pain the original one to make them both the same???

We got back and had afternoon tea and watched some TV and I could have happily had a nap but realised I had no beans and Heather wanted beans with her ham and chips tonight so we went over to Fraser Cove to buy some which was good as it woke me up.

When I got back Jon had set up the train on the tree and it looked good.

I cooked dinner and we all ate together but I am feeling the effects of all this food now and a bit of toast sound like a good idea for tomorrow's breakfast!!

I gave Heather a pedicure and painted her toenails this evening and now I am just about to collapse and go to bed and read a little more about Christian Grey!!! Maybe I could get to enjoy this book!!!


WEATHER
Cloudy with rain and sunny spells 24 degrees

Christmas Day

After a lot of heavy overnight rain we woke to a very misty, wet and humid morning not at all what we wanted!!

We all got up and showered but as it was not beach weather there was no rush for breakfast.

I was on the computer in the office waiting for the shower and noticed, by the smell, that our neighbour had lit his bonfire again and I couldn't believe it as smoke was pouring over to us, what an idiot.

We had our breakfast - scrambled eggs with salmon - and the fire was still burning. I thought I would call the council and expected an answer phone and thought I would just report it but a lady answered and I told her what was happening. Knowing we live in Hairini and there are a fair number of Maori here she asked me if it was a hungi (a pit dug in the ground, hot stones placed inside and then layers of meat, veg and fish placed in the pit and covered and left to cook) and I said no it was just rubbish. she took my detail and told me nobody was around today but she would add it to the computer details which I thought was OK.

We then started to open our presents and the phone rang and it was the council man asking for more details. He said he would call the people and hopefully sort it on the phone and we got back to our presents. I was thrilled with the wedding album Kirsty and James had sent over for us. It is really lovely and made me cry looking at all the photos again was lovely. I was also thrilled with my new iPad mini from Jon which Heather is setting up for me. It has a lovely green cover and is engraved on the back saying it belongs to Norma!

I looked out of the window and could see men in high vis jackets in our neighbours garden putting out the fire so they did actually come out, very impressive. The put the fire out and we have had no more smoke. No doubt the silly man will now have to pay a fine. It would have been cheaper to take it all to the tip and pay for it in the first place. I felt bad reporting it but it really does smell terrible and all the clothes I had drying in the garage will need to be washed again!!!

We decided we would go out for a drive to the Mount and see what was around. There was a cruise ship in but goodness knows how they were keeping themselves busy as nothing was open apart from Thai, Chinese and Indian restaurants. We drove into Tauranga and it was the same so we came home.

We had a buffet lunch with lots of picking things and then watched some TV. Heather had a sleep in the afternoon and the weather continued to be showery but very warm and humid.

Jon cooked the lamb on the bbq and we managed to do it between showers. We had soup to start and then meringue with chocolate and strawberries for pudding.

Bertie is playing up and Jon has had to take some pills to calm him down. We watched some TV and it is now raining again. Heather has sorted my ipad out so I am all high tech now with so many electronic gadgets.

Hopefully the weather will be better tomorrow but if not at least the shops are open again.

As Christmas Days go not too bad, too much food and drink but it wouldn't be Christmas if not!!


WEATHER
Wet and overcast for most of the day 22-26 degrees.

Two days posts - Sun & Mon

Monday

We had a good sleep and I think the dark curtains may have had something to do with it!!

We had breakfast which was a buffet and really good.

We then went for a walk round the shops and bought a few bits. Jon was getting tired so we decided to head out to the airport and went to a shopping centre there and had a coffee.

It was still rather early to go to the airport but we had nothing else to do so we went and arrived about 12.00. We thought the flight was due at 1.30 but the board said it would be in at 2.00 and then later said 3.00 so we had a long wait.

We went and sat at the viewing area and saw the new NZ plane and then had some lunch and just generally hung around. The flight finally landed at 3.10. I was getting really worried as I thought we would be too late to pick Tot up and I had only left enough food for her for today.

Heather finally walked through at 4.00 and we rushed out to the car and got on our way. It as lovely to see her and catch up and it is like we only saw her last week!!

We had a good drive back with not too much traffic. The police are on a speed crackdown and so we had to be careful.

We stopped at a bar to get Heather a drink and I couldn't believe that I bumped into my keep fit teacher there with her husband and daughter!!!

I rang the kennels to say we were late and they said that was fine. We finally managed to pick her up at 6.20 so not too bad.

We got home and I helped Heather unpack and she showered and I cooked dinner but the BBS was off as the forecast rain finally arrived and it is a bit rough out there.

Totty is very quiet and very tired.

Heather went to bed and I put the marzipan on my cake and made the Ambrosia pudding for tomorrow and took all the things I have prepared out of the freezer so we are ready to roll!!

WEATHER
Cloudy and 28 degrees very humid. Rain later.



Sunday

We were up and ready to leave the house by 8.15 and went to drop Totty off at the kennels. he seemed OK when we left and so I was happy.

Our drive to Auckland was good but there was a lot of traffic on the roads.

We arrived at the hotel at 11.00 and were glad they had a room for us to check in straight away. We haven't stayed there before but it looked very nice with a big room and very clean.

We went out and looked around for a lunch place but ended up at Burgerfuel as we were running out of time as Mary Poppins started at 1.00.

We went to the theatre and into our seats which were really good and we had no 'big' person around us and amazingly not too many children. There was a group of people who had brought really young children only about a year old, why would you do that???

The production was really good and different to the one I saw in London and had a few new songs.

We left the theatre and bought a piece of cake on the way back and went to out room and had a cup of tea and then a very nice siesta.

We decided to have dinner in the hotel as the walk down to the eating areas would have taken a good 10 - 15 minutes and I thought Jon was doing well enough already. We had cocktails on the deck and the predicted rain didn't arrive. We were so glad we ate in as the meal was really, really good and although we were finished by 8.30 it was more than enough for Jon. We went back tot he room and had a coffee and read our books.

It was a good first trip away with Bertie and he didn't let us down.

WEATHER
Cloudy and bright 24 degrees

Three more sleeps!!

We woke to lots of rain and overcast this morning but very warm.

Kirsty called and we had a nice chat and I am glad to say all parcels seemed to have arrived at the destinations - phew Well done to the PO in NZ and UK.

We left the house and went over to Welcome Bay to buy our eggs from the lady who sells by the side of the das they are really good eggs.

We then went down to the Mount and had a coffee before going to Nosh food shop to buy some meat for the holidays and also some steak for tonight along with other things that we don't really need. This shop sells lots of Waitrose things and on actually found clotted cream but in a jar, not sure what it will taste like but it is worth a try.

We got home in time for the people to come and collect the kayak which we finally sold. they were due to come at 1.00 and arrived at nearly 2.00 so lunch was late. They had their car loaded and were going round the East Cape for Christmas and would use the kayak whereever they could along the way so we feel it has gone to a good home.

After lunch I did my housework which was a hard slog as it was so warm and humid. Jon went to buy some plants to replace some that object to the very sunny spot we put them so we will try with some carnations and see what happens.

I had to take some baking over to one of the Lions ladies for an international camp that we provide for. I needed to get rid of it as it was taking much needed space in my freezer. Before I left I went into my neighbour to take him some chocolates (I noticed he cuts our bit of grass on the pavement so wanted to thank him). He and his wife were having a drink on the deck and he invited me in to see the Christmas tree. I didn't really have time but could not refuse. I went in and saw the tree he has been telling me about and it did not disappoint. It is really lovely. Edwina has been making decorations for 30 years and they are beautiful. Some are embroidery and some are lace and some are bead work but all are really, really lovely and the tree is huge. I said I would go in again and take a photo of it. She said she used to make three of everything and one was for her, one for her daughter and one for her son but they don't much care for them!!! What!!! I think they might as they get older, I know I would.

I then dashed across town to Cherrywood to drop off the cakes and then went to the supermarket as I have been trying to find the blackcurrant squash that Heather likes and finally found it along with some other bits which I can now put in the freezer as I have space.

When I got back it was a quick rush to cook dinner as it was late.

After dinner we sorted out our clothes for going to Auckland as we need to leave early as Mary Poppins starts at 1.00 and we need to take Tot on the way.

I should have been in bed a long time ago but gave my elderly neighbour a quick call and today of all days she decided she wanted to chat normally all I can get out of her is a few words!!

Off to bed now and might not get a post done tomorrow as I am not sure if I will have Internet access.

Hopefully Bertie will behave on his first trip away!!

WEATHER
Rain, sun, humid 24 degrees

One bonfire too many!!

We had a lot of overnight rain and it was loud as the windows were all wide open due to the heat.

I was up and ready to leave early so that I could get my car to the garage on time and then walk to the shop. Unfortunately, due to the heavy rain I needed a jacket and umbrella to get me there! I did stop off at a new cafe and bought a take away coffee which helped make the walk to work better - coffee in the rain!!!!

It was only Sharon and I in the shop this morning till 11.00 and it was not really busy till later in the morning so not too bad.

I left the shop and went to pick up my car which was all sorted and ready for me and nothing too drastic needed for the service.

I stopped off to buy a few things on my way home and got back about 2.00 and more than ready for my lunch.

I have not  been able to find marzipan for my Christmas cake. I did see it in the supermarket a while ago and should have bought it so I have, for the first time ever, had to make my own which I did this afternoon and it tastes OK. While I was in the process of making it the man across the road lit his bonfire again and I had to close all the doors and windows. I was so hot! I had decided to let things be as I know they are doing an extension but I am afraid things got the better of me and the smell was just too much.

I phoned the council to ask what the regulations are and she gave me the number for 'air polution' which I called and told them what was happening. She made a not of it and said she would get back to me. I was more than surprised when after only 20 minutes I had a call from an inspector to say he had been to the house and told the man to stop burning as it was unfair on the neighbours especially as the weather was warm and everyone wanted the windows open. He told me the man was burning his old deck and did not realise it was illegal and would stop. I asked if he had told him who had complained and he said no it was confidential which is good as I really don't want to upset the neighbours but it really is a terrible smell and fills the house.

The burning stopped and I was able to open the windows again and although I felt bad I think it was the right thing to do as every day for five days is going too far.

Jon came home and had some nice presents from work wine, olive oil and a nice food hamper which are all very nice.

We sat having a cup of tea and watched the news and then the burning started again!!! I hope it was just that the fire had not gone out and it flared up again. If it starts again tomorrow I will have to call the council as it really is not fair to have this going on. He could take it all to the tip but of course he would have to pay for that!!

Avon Carol called this afternoon with my order which is some lovely decorations with lights in them but I now need to go and buy loads of batteries!!

We had our fish and chips and watched some TV and there is another day gone.

It really hit me today that it is nearly Christmas and Heather will be here soon. the forecast is still not good and so not sure what we will do on Christmas Day if it is too wet to go to the beach but we will cross that bridge when we come to it.


WEATHER
Wet start followed by sun and 24 degrees.

Alovely surprise.

I started to read Fifty Shades of Gray a few weeks ago and have not really got very far with it yet.  Last night I was reading the bit where he shows her his 'playroom' and I have to say I found it all very disturbing and had a horrible night's sleep with some very weird dreams. I am not sure I want to continue with it. I knew it was racy but not sure I like the way it is going. Maybe I am too old for this sort of book!

I was very busy first thing and got on with some jobs around the house and changed the bed and put the washing on and I am sure it won't take long to dry today.

I left the house and went and got some coffee for Bronwyn and I and went round to see her. Peter is coming out of hospital and it was supposed to be this afternoon but she had a call from him when I was there to say he was ready so we finished our coffee and she went to collect him. They will now stay home for Christmas and if he is well enough go to Auckland to her daughter for New Year.

I then popped in to see Alison who was looking after her granddaughter today. Doug retires tomorrow and so I took him a card. We had a chat and she gave me a present for Christmas and then I left to go and do my shopping.

I managed to find two rugs to go by the bed in Heather's room and I got two, free standing, loo roll holders so no more groping round the back of the toilet to find the paper. I also found a little shelf to go by the basin to put the toothbrushes and things on as they were all spread out on the bench and looked very untidy - I hate mess!!

I had a quick sandwich at the DIY store coffee bar and then carried on. I popped into the Red Cross to take some clothes in and had a chat to Sharon and Bianca and then did my supermarket shop and managed to get back home by 2.30 so a pretty good morning.

The gardener came to cut the grass again. He told me he would not be here again till after Christmas but now says he is having two weeks off so thought he would do it again. Unfortunately, when he arrived the bin was at the top of the stairs as it had been emptied today and it was blocking the stairs and after the last time he called I though he would have something to say. Strangely enough he didn't say a word but wished me a Merry Christmas and was all smiles - he is still not getting a Christmas present!!! I moved the bin and trellis so he could get in and out easily.

Just as he left a courier came and brought us the most beautiful flower arrangement and it is all Christmassy, red and green with baubles in it. It is from all of Jon's family in Cornwall and was such a lovely surprise and I was quite choked by their kindness.

I then loaded the car with the recycling and set off to the tip. On my way back I stopped in to see Margaret and take her card and present and her invitation to our bbq.

Finally back home I had a nice cup of iced tea. Not much more to do now other than a few fresh things on Saturday.

Jon came home about five as he was tired and I stood and did my ironing. The man across the road is having some renovation done on his house and he keeps having bonfires and the smoke blows across the road and fills our yard and as all the windows have been open as it is so hot the house is so smelly. This has been going on since Sunday and although I don't wish to be a moan I am fed up and it it happens again tomorrow I will be phoning the council as he is not supposed to do it. the annoying thing is it is just smouldering away and the smell is terrible.

Jon had lunch out with some people today so we just had omelette for dinner tonight.

Off to bed now as I need to be out early to take my car in for a service before I go to Red Cross.

A little more of Mr Gray? Maybe.

WEATHER
Hot and humid 24 degrees

Baking Marathon

I had a really enjoyable day today and didn't leave the house.

Jon left for work and I got stuck in to all the chores I have been putting off. I wrapped all the stocking fillers for Heather and then weighed them, 2.9kgs, so that I know how much she can buy when she is here!!!

The gardener came this morning and tidied up the garden so it is all looking nice, she won't be back now till the New Year. I had bought her a little present and she seemed very pleased with it.

I got a lot of backing done today but it was so hot and I really didn't choose a good day to bake. Once out of the fridge the butter was melting in next to no time and my pastry got very soft so I had to work fast. I have finally finished the butter cream icing on the coffee cake and chocolate cake tonight and they are all boxed up and in the freezer which is now very full. I made some sweet potato croquettes which I think Heather will like as she likes kumara so they, too, are in the freezer plus the mince pies.

I got my washing done and dried so another tick on my list.

I stopped for my lunch and watched a bit of TV and then got back into it. I would have liked to sit outside but thought I had better keep going.

I had a quick phone call from Kirsty this morning. The light bulb in the porch has broken and they couldn't get the cover off the light to change it and wanted to know how to do it!!! The light has been up there for about 27 years and so I told her they would probably have to force it and it would break and it did. I told them to buy a new one which they will do. They were just on the way out to Tesco so we didn't speak long but they are all OK.

I put some photos on FB this afternoon just as a break from cooking.

Jon came home from work early as he had been to have his hair cut. He made a cup of tea which then made us late and not really very hungry for our dinner!

I had a test from Les to give me her number in Oz. She said it is very hot over there but she is OK.

I am now sitting in the office and thinking about going to bed. I think we might need the fan on tonight as it is unbearably hot and humid. We shouldn't complain though.


WEATHER
Hot and humid 28 degrees

A very humid day

Jon was up early this morning and I was up not long after him. I have this really annoying tickle in my throat and a horrible cough.

I had ordered a canvas print of us all standing in the doorway of the church at Kirsty's wedding and it arrived today and is really big but very nice. Now I have to decide where to hang it.

Jon left for work and is out to a lunch today and also a dinner so no sandwiches to make.

I went to my keep fit class and it was hard work due to the humidity, I was dripping and it was nice when we had a shower of rain. I stayed for a coffee and chat after class. That is the last class now till January 14.

I went to the pharmacy at the doctors surgery to ask them to order Jon's medication when the prescription was faxed through. To my surprise it was already there so it saved me another trip to collect it.

I went home and walked Tot and then got changed and went over to the Mount and had a French manicure done on my toes and hands and it looks very nice.

I went to the butcher on the way home and bought 'the ham' so we are sorted now.

I got back and had some lunch and a sit down before hanging out the washing. Not sure if it will dry as it is humid with the occasional shower.

I left the house again to go to my aqua class and on the way stopped at Pilot Bay to take a photo of the huge cruise ship that is in 'Celebrity Solstice', it is enormous and I would have liked to have been on The Mount to see it go past tonight.

I was a little late getting to my class which was very good as always with Carla.

After class four of us went to have fish and chips at a local bar on the front and we saw the cruise ship leaving. I am not sure I would like to go on one that big.  Our dinner was lovely but a very big portion and we had a lovely evening, Carol, Monica, Jan and I.

I got home at 7.30 and Jon was still out so I sat and watched TV till he came in at about 8.15. He said he didn't stay for pudding as he was too tired.

It is really warm again tonight and very humid. I heard on the news today that we might get the tail end of Cyclone Evan coming down from Fiji and it will be just in time for Christmas!!! Oh well, not much we can do about the weather and at least we have not had it as bad as Fiji and Samoa.


WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 23 degrees

Busy Monday

We woke to another wet day this morning but at least it is warm in fact, humid, we are to set to go down to only 19 tonight!

I was up very early as I thought I heard the doorbell and went to get out of bed but I think I must have been dreaming!

My cold is so much better and I am sure it must have been the tablets I got from the chemist.

Heather called this morning and we had a chat about what she is not to pack as I have most things here for her but I am sure she will bring too much!! She told me that she went over to see Rene, my old neighbour, and she said in the 40 minutes she was there she must have cried six times at least! It was very kind of her to go over as I know she feels uncomfortable with her but it probably meant a lot to Rene.

I went to the doctor this morning as I have a couple of red patches on my back and arm which I wanted him to look at. He thinks they are harmless but is sending me for biopsies. You get a little paranoid here in NZ about skin cancer so it is always best to have them checked.

While at the medical centre I went to get Jon's prescription as he will run out of chemo tablets as from Sunday and we don't see the consultant till the New Year. They told me he has no more repeats on it which seems a bit silly as they know he is on it till March. I will have to call the cancer clinic and speak to the nurse.

I went to the supermarket to do all my non perishable shopping so that I don't have much to do at the weekend.

I got home with just enough time to put the shopping away and then rush out to my Pilate's class. I was the only one there so had a good one to one class. That is my last class till mid January.

I spoke to Jon about his tablets and he gave Lorraine a call and she is going to get a script sent to the medical centre pharmacy which I can collect tomorrow or Wednesday. I don't know why they didn't give him enough to last till we see the consultant in the first place. Just as well I noticed or it would have been the weekend and Christmas and no tablets!!!

Had some lunch when I got back and then rushed off to the vet with Tot to have her kennel cough booster. She is not due till January but as she is going into kennels it is better for her to have it now.

Back home and I was finally able to get some housework done. I also cooked some sticky chicken drumsticks which I will freeze for out Christmas Day picnic. I also made the vichyssoise for Christmas Day dinner.

I managed to get ten of Jon's shirts ironed. I really shouldn't leave the ironing to mount up.

I cooked a nice dinner tonight and we both really liked it. It was spaghetti pasta and then you mix creme fraiche and fresh herbs with lemon in with the hot pasta and then a piece of hot smoked salmon flaked and it was really good.

I did a bit more ironing after dinner and then we watched Rick Stein's TV programme 'Cornish Christmas' and it was a lovely programme with lots of things going on that Jon had never heard of. Calls himself a Cornishman!!!


WEATHER
Rain and cloud 23 degrees, humid

Another lovely day

It is so nice to wake up to sunny days. today was a better day as it was not so hot and you can get on and do things.

We went for a coffee at the local garden centre and then bought a couple of plants for pots we needed to fill. One of the plants attracts Monarch butterflies so that should be interesting to watch.

We then drove to the kennels that I have booked Tot into when we go to Auckland to get Heather. It looks like a really nice place and is only small but the man was very nice and let us have a look around and all the dogs looked happy and some were out in the field having a walk on leads so all good.

On our way home we went down into Welcome Bay to have a look at our old house and the new garage. It wa due to be finished on 4 December - it is nowhere near completion and we are so glad we moved when we did. It is very big and they have blocked what was our bedroom window and I am sure living with all that would have been a nightmare.

We got back and I phoned the kennels and asked if they could take her for the New Year break, too but he said they were already full. I really should have done something about this before now but I wanted to check out the kennels before I booked her in again. I rang the usual kennels and left a message but they called back to say they were full. Oh dear what am I going to do.

Jon had gone into town to do some Christmas shopping and when he came home I told him about the dog. Now, I am a 'cup half full' and Jon, is most definitely a 'cup half empty'. Oh we will have to cancel and lose the hotel money he said. No, we will find somewhere I assured him.

After lunch, fish finger sandwiches, I rang around all the kennels and checked their location on Google and finally I managed to get her booked in. It is on the way to Rotorua and so not close but at least she is in somewhere and I do know it is a good place. We will have to take her the afternoon before we want to leave for Taranaki as we want to have an early start and it is not on the way but that is OK. The other option was a company who have dog sitters to come to your house a couple of times a day but I really can't see how that would work and she would be on her own for too long. So, all sorted.

Jon and I went for a walk this afternoon just down to the end of the road as he has not been that far yet. We didn't take Tot as we only got as far as the neighbour's house with her this morning. We met a nice lady with a little Scottie dog, five months old. We had a nice chat and I told her where we lived and maybe I will meet up with her again. There are some lovely houses at the bottom of our street and it is such a shame the top end is so neglected. But it is all very peaceful so we are happy with it.

Jon did a few bits in the garden this afternoon and I sorted out the bedroom for Heather. it all looks very bare and I will have to find some pictures for the walls and pretty it up a bit.

I then carried on cleaning and before I knew it I had cleaned all the downstairs and washed all the floors so tomorrow I can get on with my ironing that I keep putting off.

I cooked roast venison for dinner tonight and it was really yummy.

Jon started his chemo yesterday and it has kicked in with a vengeance this evening so looks like it might be a disturbed night for us both.

We had another amazing sunset tonight but I can't get the photo to upload for some reason. I think I should start a file for 'sunsets'.


WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 24 degrees.

A lovely sunny day

After a little lie in this morning we were up to a lovely sunny day. Could this be the start of some settled weather??

We went into Tauranga and sat in Red Square and had a coffee. It was surprisingly quiet in the city considering it is Christmas next week!

We went to the library and I read a magazine while Jon chose his books.

We then went to the supermarket and bought lots of drinks, non alcoholic, that we might need for our bbq in Jan.

By the time we got back it was lunchtime and I made Jon a sandwich and I had some fruit.

The tablets I got to dry up my cold seem to be working as it is not so bad today thank goodness.

As it was so hot, 26 degrees in the shade on our deck, I decided to have an hour in the sun. I could only manage 40 minutes as it is so hot here and unlike the beach no sea breeze.

Jon worked in the garage sorting the last of the boxes and we are now officially 'unpacked'.

I sat inside and tried to decide what to cook for Christmas day and what to take on our Christmas day picnic, so much to choose from but trying to cater for Jon AND Heather is not easy.

We had a cup of tea and a mince pie and watched the news and the terrible shootings in USA. How many more need to die before they change their gun laws??

I decided to bath Tot and I have never seen so much hair come off her. She does look very nice now.

I cooked some chicken breasts with bacon for dinner and we had them with salad.

Jon had done too much today so I tidied up after dinner and he sat down. He is not good at pacing himself!!

Time for bed now.


WEATHER
Sunny 24 degrees

The Office Christmas Party

As I was going to bed last night my nose started to run and it hasn't stopped yet. It is a shame the party is not fancy dress tonight as I would make a good Rudolph right now!! I can't remember the last time I had a cold.

I was awake and thinking of getting up at 5.40 but thought it was too early and the next thing I know it is 7.20 and I had to get up pretty fast!!

I was ready on time and left for the shop and even managed to arrive early!! We had a reasonable morning so not too bad considering we are one person down as Les is now on her way to Oz. Just as well I took a box of tissues with me as I needed them all morning. The young Korean girl came in and said it was her last day as she is going back to Korea on 8 January. Her son has been here on a scholarship to learn English and she was here as his guardian. It was a shame she only found out about the Red Cross shop for her last few weeks as it would have been nice to have her around for a few more weeks and she enjoyed it, too. Midori from Japan will be away till February, too as it is school holidays so we are going to be very short staffed.

Bronwyn came into the shop and said Peter had gone down for his op and said she would call me later. She texted to say he was out and she sent me another text to say she would call me tomorrow as she knew I was out so I am not sure how he is yet.

I left to go for my hair appointment and did a bit of shopping on the way. I went to the chemist to buy some tablets to see if I could dry up my nose for tonight.

I had my eyebrows done first and then my hair and it was all very relaxing.

I popped into the supermarket on the way back to buy some mincemeat to make more pies and to buy some wine as they have a sale on.

I got back and had a cup of tea and watched TV. Half of me is not wanting to go out tonight and it would be nice just to go to bed.

Jon came home and we both got ready so far the tablets haven't worked and my nose looks a mess. I can't believe I have a cold just as we are due to go out for the first time for ages.

We went to the restaurant, Thai, and it is only a small place so it was rather squashed for everyone and very noisy. The mixed starter was very good and I would have been happy with that really but then they brought out green Thai curry, a chicken and cashew nut dish and a sweet and sour fish dish and we all got rice. It was OK but nothing special. Jon just had some plain fish and said it was nice. It was bring your own wine and Mark had provided lots and lots so everyone was very merry. I was driving so had one small glass. Pudding was a very, very rich chocolate fudge cake which most people could not finish. We didn't stay late and were home by 10.15.

I am just going to take some more of these tablets and hopefully I won't be dripping so much tomorrow.

We are supposed to be able to see lots of shooting stars tonight but so far I haven't seen any and I am too tired to stay up any longer.


WEATHER
Cloudy for most of the day, lovely evening 22 degrees

Another Christmas Lunch

I think it must have rained for most of the night so my washing that I forgot to bring in was very wet! Why can't the weather people get it right. It was meant to be sunny and 22 today and instead we have low cloud and about 20.

I went off to the Red Cross for a nine o'clock meeting. Nothing much was discussed really and as far as I can see a wast of time but never mind.

I came straight home and got ready for my lunch with the ladies from swimming.

It was a good lunch and I had roast turkey which will probably be the only time I have turkey this Christmas. It was very good and served on a bed of lovely vegetables.

Dessert was chilli chocolate torte with boysenberry ice cream and it was really, really good. There were 40 of us at the lunch and we all had to take a picture of us when we were young, nobody guessed mine at all but I am not surprised!!

After lunch we were invited round to the house of one of the ladies to see her paintings. She does some lovely work and she told me they only take her about six hours to do some of them. Most of them are NZ scenes but all very nice. We could have a Baileys and a chocolate if we wanted but as I was driving I thought I had better not. She has a lovely holiday home at the Mount, very modern and in a lovely spot but her main home is on a farm but I am not sure where.

I then went to the shops and did the last of my Christmas shopping. I also found a lovely suit for Jame's wedding. I did buy a dress when I was in the UK but I have not been able to find a jacket to go with it so when I saw this suit I snapped it up as it is really nice and fits well.

I got home and Jon was already in as he had been out to lunch and a meeting and it was not worth going back to work. We had a cup of tea and watched the news.

I brought my washing in and had to put it through the machine again.

As we had both been out for lunch Jon just had an ometlette and I didn't eat as I was still full.

I made mince pies tonight and so it felt and smelt very Christmasssy.

I spoke to Bronwyn and she told me Peter is going down for surgery tomorrow as they can't clear the blockage and they will check his liver at the same time. We had a nice chat and a giggle and so she said she would be able to go to bed now as she felt happier. So hard for her to have had this happen off and on for 14 years.

Hopefully, I can post this but I had no Internet earlier so not sure if it will work now or not.

WEATHER
Cloudy for most of the day 21 degrees.

A Rude Gardner

I had to get busy this morning as the lady was coming to measure for the blinds at 9.00 so I was all done and dusted and ready for her by 8.30.

She arrived and I thought she was going to measure up for 'Roman' blinds as I thought we had agreed. What she actually measured for was 'roller' blinds as Karen had thought I said. Slight communication or language difference there.

It was decided that putting one roller blind on the window that has nothing is the only option. If we have roller blinds on all three windows (taking the two Venetian blinds off ) it will mean when the sun shines in the bedroom in the afternoon we would have to close the blind making it completely dark which is not what we wanted. She did say we could try replacing the white Venetian blinds with dark blue to make it darker and put one roller blind on the empty window but I am not sure the owners would want to go to so much expense. I now have to wait and see what they decide.

I spoke to my friend Bronwyn and she told me they think Peter has cancer in his liver now and is having a CT scan today but I haven't heard anything since.

I texted Les and she rang and asked me to come over about 11.00 so I bought her a coffee on the way.

Les had lots of boxes by the door and didn't really need me to do anything so we sat and chatted till her friend came over with his van and packed most of the boxes in and I packed some into my car and we went over to their daughter's house and put them in her garage. I had a quick chat and then left.

On my way back I dropped off some wine for various doctors and nurses that have looked after Jon over the past months. The cancer nurse, Lorraine, was actually there when I left them and she gave me a hug and was very pleased, she is a lovely lady and very caring.

I finally got back and as was standing in the kitchen reading the Christmas cards and post when I heard the man who cuts the grass coming in the back way. I heard him say 'this gets f*****g worse every time we come'. He was meaning where we have put the trellis to stop Tot getting out. I opened the door and told him it was not fixed and could be easily moved. Obviously shocked and surprised as he hadn't seen me and  I had heard him he said 'Oh don't worry we have long legs'. He then asked me how I was and said 'have a Happy Christmas'! I said 'and the same to you'. I really have not taken to this man and he has had something to say every time he has been to us. It takes him about ten minutes at the most to strim the grass. He does not use a mower as it is on a slope so he has no cuttings to take away and only has to carry a strimmer in and if he can't do that in a pleasant way I will be telling the agent and ask her if we can have the lovely young man who did our grass for us in Welcome Bay. He did a really good job and was always pleasant and actually seemed to enjoy his work. This man comes in looking like a 'grass monster' as he wears shorts and his legs, up to his knees, are covered in grass from the strimmer, he looks very odd. I have bought my nice lady gardener a Christmas present but there is no way he is getting one!!

I went up to the office to keep out of his way as I didn't want to speak to him again and while I was up there I heard the garage door open so I went down and sure enough the door was opening and closing but the remote to work it was in the hall! I went to get it and close the door and it did and as I turned to go back into the house the door opened again!! I spent about 15 minutes trying to make it stay shut but everytime I moved away it opened again, then half closed then opend fully and it was up and down. I finally managed to get it closed and thengot out of the garage and hid the remote in the downstairs loo. I think we will have to speak to the agent about it as I don't want it opening in the night as we have no lock on the door into the house from the garage or worse opening during the day when we are out or even when we are away and could be open for a few days. It is funny - but it's not!!

At least when I looked out of the window the gardener had gone!

I spent the rest of the afternoon wrapping presents so I am nearly done now. I need to start thinking about food for Christmas. Maybe I will ask Heather what she would like, that would be a start.

I cooked roast lamb for dinner tonight and topped it with feta cheese for the last five minutes, yum!

We watched some TV and it is now quite late as Bertie has been playing up but not sure why as Jon is off his medication this week. He went for his blood test today and Lorraine says it is still looking good so he will start chemo again on Saturday.

WEATHER
Cloudy start then sunny spells 24 degrees.

No Internet

We had trouble with the Internet yesterday. Telecom had been doing an upgrade and 'something' went wrong and so we lost it and it went on and off for most of the day. Just as I was about to do my blog we lost it again!!

We are now on Wednesday morning and it has been on and off three times already!!

I woke after a terrible night's sleep. My whole body was aching and my throat was still sore so not sure what it is.

I went to keep fit but didn't put as much energy into the class as I usually do and it was very warm this morning so we were all a little slower.

After class I went and met Viv for a coffee as she is going back up to her daughter's on Wednesday. It was lovely sitting out in the sun and having a chat and an iced coffee.

I went home and wrapped some presents up and generally pottered around.

I went over to the Mount in the afternoon for my aqua class. Today was the first class we have had that we have not shivered when getting out due to the cold winds we have been having.

After the class I went over to one of the department stores in Tauranga that had a sale on - in fact, they are always having sales, a bit like DFS in the UK if they are still about!! Jon had seen a power bag in the shop when we were there on Sunday. It has a battery pack in the bag and it will charge your iPod, iPad, eReader etc. He told me he liked it so I thought I would go and buy one for him and as they had a sale I thought it might be reduced and it was , by $60!!!! I also saw our garden swing that we bought on Sunday reduced by 40%!!! Don't you just hate that?

I saw my first 'real' traffic jam in Tauranga. As I was crossing the harbour bridge a lorry had broken down on the opposite side so one lane was closed which caused a huge traffic jam going all the way back into the city. I was so glad I was going the other way.

I got back and Jon had just got home and so I made dinner and we ate early and then watched TV.

I texed Bronwyn to see how she was and she replied telling me she was in A&E with Peter as they thought he had a bowel blockage - he has had bowel cancer for 14 years and had been doing well but has recently felt very tired and she was worried about him.

Well, due to no Internet I had another early night.

WEATHER
Sunny and warm 24 degrees

A very busy and hot day!

We were both up early this morning and when Jon was in the shower I called my friend, Jenny, in the UK for a chat which was very nice for both of us to catch up.

Once off the phone I put the washing on and then died my hair which was long overdue!

The rest of the morning I spent cleaning and washing. I have a really sore throat which started yesterday and now feels like sandpaper.

I left for my Pilate's class and found a plant and a card on the doorstep from Viv but I didn't hear her come to the door.

My class was really good but I am feeling a bit sore now not sure if it is the class or just this throat thing.

I then took some cardboard to the tip and went to the supermarket to buy some lettuce and some ice pops for Tot.

Back home I carried on with my housework and then I was finally able to put the Christmas tree up and it looks very pretty.

I rang Viv and she said she had rung the bell but it is a bit hit and miss and as I had the vacuum cleaner on I might not have heard it. We have arranged to go for a coffee tomorrow after my keep fit class.

It was really hot again today so I gave Tot one of the ice pops and she really liked it.

My throat gradually got worse and I feel pretty rough now.

Jon came home and I made the dinner and then we watched a Frost but the recording ended before the end!!

Just doing a quick blog and then off to bed and hopefully I will feel better tomorrow.

WEATHER
Lovely sunny day 24 degrees

A lovely summer's day

We had decided to go out for breakfast this morning and then have a walk something that Jon has not been able to do for some weeks.

Heather said she would call and she did but just for a quick chat, so  nice to think she will be here in nearly two weeks!!

We intended to go down to the Mount for breakfast but we couldn't get a parking space so went into the main shopping area and had a really lovely breakfast at the same place we had coffee at the Santa parade. We both had eggs Benedict with bacon and it was very, very good.

We then walked around the shops and bought some good bargains as one of the shops is closing down and had everything at 50% off. Jon bought a couple of merino polo tops which are really nice.

We then drove down to the beach and parked and walked along. We didn't go too far as it is the first time Jon has walked any distance since his op but we both really enjoyed it and it was so warm and sunny.

We then went and bought a garden swing and a new summer duvet as the one I have in the spare room is not very good. We also bought another piece of trellis for the back steps and it will hopefully keep any dogs out and deter the cats! I live in hope about the cats, there are far too many here in NZ.

We finally got home and I made some lunch for Jon but I just had an apple.

We started to assemble the swing but it was so hot on the deck. I put the thermometer on the table in the shade and it was reading nearly 30! We went indoors and watched TV for an hour and then went back out and finished the swing. I am really pleased with it and so is Totty.

Jon cooked some lamb steaks on the bbq but as the sun was so low we had to eat at the side of the house in the courtyard bit.

We watched some TV and that is it now time for bed.


WEATHER
Sunny and warm officially 24 degrees - nearly 30 on our deck in the shade!

I felt the earth move!!

I woke this morning and was lying in bed and I felt a very odd sensation and the bed was rocking. I looked at Jon and he was fast asleep and Totty was asleep in her bed and I thought I must have imagined it but checked the time and it was just gone 7.15.

I got up and after letting Totty out and putting the kettle on, for a cup of tea, I logged on to the computer. I checked on Sun Live and sure enough it had an article saying there had been a quake. This is the first one I have felt and it was a very strange sensation but fortunately no damage as far as I know.

Jon had breakfast and I had a shower and we got ready and went into Tauranga. I bought a dress when I was in UK and it is really too young for me so I took it to a shop that sells new and nearly new clothes. I don't particularly like the lady and I like her even less now and will never set foot over her doorstep again. She said 'Oh, it is very nice but I think it is too late in the season (Hello, summer only started eight days a go!) so I will give you $20 for it - that is ten pounds and I paid fifty!!!! I will try and sell it on traademe or if I only wear it once it will be better than giving it to this old witch. I wouldn't mid but she dresses like a bag lady herself!!! I walked out of the shop!!!

We then went and had a coffee and I calmed down.

On our way home we stopped at the supermarket as I needed butter and then we went home.

I took Totty out for a walk and met our neighbour, David. He told me that Edwina was putting up the Christmas tree and it was such a lot of work but once up they would invite us in for a drink - I can't wait!! Totty walked five yards down the road and then back!!

i packed up our bbq food and we set of to Bull's house (Bull Alan used to play for the All Blacks and now works for Jon and he was having a few people over for a bring your own bbq, chairs, plates, cutlery afternoon). We were due at 1.00 and arrived about 1.20. Typical Brits we were first! Not only that nobody else arrived till 3.30!!!! He had only just got back from the gym, his wife had an allergy which made her eye swollen so had been to the doctors and we felt we really shouldn't have been there. Bull is a Mormon and so had said no alcohol so I had a cup of tea with far too much milk in and Jon had a glass of water and we sat chatting inside when all the lovely sunshine was being wasted outside.

They live in a lovely spot, well his mother in laws house , which opens out onto a big green which goes down to a park and the inner harbour. They brought out some crisps and nibbles and we talked some more.

Eventually, when some other people arrived we managed to get outside and Jon and I went for a walk to the jetty where the ferry leaves from which goes across to Matakana Island where there is a big Maoris settlement. We have been down there a few times and I always take my visitors down there as it is pretty.

It was decided that the men would play rugby with the children and we watched. Then they played cricket and asked Jon to play. I wonder where these people have been for the last three months if they don't realise he can't do things like that right now.

We were by this time absolutely starving. Bull's wife brought round a plate of strawberries and chocolate dip!!!! Pudding!!! We needed lunch! Jon fell asleep in the chair and Bull's wife asked why he didn't want to play cricket, I hear you have not been well, she said!!!! Understatement of the year!

It was by now 4.30 and I said I think we should go now as Jon is tired so we got our things together and said our goodbyes and left. We were so hungry on the way home.

This was a typical Kiwi afternoon. Why tell people 1.00 if they are not going to be ready to eat till 5.00 or 6.00. Had we known we would have had lunch before we left. It would have been very pleasant sitting outside had we not felt so hungry. We should know by now as this seems to happen every time you go to a Kiwi house most people arrive late and it is as if they all know and think nothing of it. If we are told 1.00 we get there for 1.00 or pretty soon after!! Four years and we still do it!!

We decided to have some nibbles when we got back and cook the sausages and have our own bbq. It as too late to have lunch and then dinner.

It turned into a pleasant evening as the sun was shinning and it was lovely and warm and the wind has dropped.

We then watched some TV.

WEATHER
Some cloud but sunny and warm 22 degrees

Friday, again!

It was nice to see the sun again today but we did have some really heavy showers, too.

I went of to work and Jon left and he is off to have a nice lunch at the Harbourside.

Work was the usual busy morning for Fridays. The young Korean woman who works on a Friday was asked, by Sharon, to tidy the Manchester (linen to us Brits). She got stuck in and as I was sorting the children's clothes nearby she called me over and asked me - now this is going to be hard to explain I think! All the linen is marked on the shelves as - duvets - double - queen - single - flat - fitted and we all know what it means, Enia doesn't. She held a sheet and pointed to the 'duvets' sign and asked 'Duvet' and pronounced the 'et'. No, I told her it was a sheet. Ah, she said, shit! 'No, no I said, bad word if you say shit, it is sheeeet'.. She could not, however hard she tried, say 'sheet'. I then tried to explain to her the difference to a flat shit and a fitted shit!!!! I was nearly rolling around on the beds at the back of the shop I was laughing so much. Later she brought a sheet down to the desk and the label said 'as is'. What mean?  she asked. Les, in her best Scottish accent, told her 'The customer can't complain and bring it back - she doesn't waste words!! Blank look from Enia. so I said 'It is broken and they buy it and no money back'. Ah! she said 'Broken shit'!!! What can you say??

When she finished work later in the morning she told me 'I have funny morning working with you'. I think she meant she had enjoyed her morning with us!!! Enia left and Madori arrived but at least she speaks better English!

Les was not in the best of moods as her imminent departure is playing heavy on her mind and she has a lot to sort out so it was hard to keep her going this morning.

I finished work and went to the supermarket on the way home. I didn't have much to buy and started wandering round and suddenly all the lights went out just as I was trying to decide which sausages to buy for the bbq tomorrow. An elderly lady asked one of the staff what had happened as 'all the lights have gone out'? 'We have had a power cut' he said. 'Well how long will they be off'? How she expected the poor man to know so soon I don't know. All the staff were so good and came out with torches and helped everyone with their shopping and I had a nice discussion with a young man as to which sausages were the best! This would not have happened in Tesco or Asda as there would have been too many people but her in NZ the supermarkets don't really get that busy. I finished my shopping and took it to the checkout and although the conveyor belt was not working the till was so I was able to pay for it.. I had to go outside and round the car park as I had parked undercover and the electric doors would not work. I heard one of the staff say they were closing the store as the 'power out' was across Tauranga so I had been lucky to get my shopping done.

Once out and on the way home it was chaotic as none of the traffic lights were working at the main junctions so it was a free for all but I got home safely.

I had some lunch and as there was no power I finally sorted out some of my clothes and made a pile to take to the Red Cross - to balance out the ones I brought back today!!

I got ready and went over to my friend's house for her drinks party and had a lovely time. Some of the ladies I go swimming with were there and Carol's two sisters and she had some very nice nibbles. At 6.45 I said I had to leave and asked if there was a fish and chip shop nearby and they told me of one on my way home so I went there to get our dinner.

It was a busy little shop and I asked for two fish and a half a scoop of chips, usually enough for us. I was given my number and waited. I noticed that she was weighing out frozen chips and they were cooked to order - very precise!! After quite a wait my number was called and I set off home.

Jon had the table set and poured me a glass of wine as I came through the door. I opened the packet and you could count the chips!! Just as well Jon had been out for lunch and I had some nibbles or we would have been hungry. Unfortunately, the only one who missed out was Totty. That said the fish was beautiful and well worth the lack of chips!

We watched Coronation Street and now it is time to go to bed with Mr Grey and see if I can get to the end of chapter two before I fall asleep!

WEATHER
Sunny spells with showers 22 degrees

Dentist day

We are having some very odd weather this year. We woke to thick mist again this morning and I could see less than yesterday across the bay.

I had to leave early to get to my dental appointment which wasn't that bad. He is very gentle and I had one filling replaced and the outside of one tooth 'patched up' at a cost of one hundred pounds!!!!!

When I left the surgery I was surprised it was not more numb than it was and I was able to go and have a coffee and a scone as I had had no breakfast.

I then hit the shops and the post office. Next year will be emails to say Happy Christmas as it is just far too expensive. I love having the cards but I think the money will be better used for a charity.

I managed to find some presents for Jon and I hope he likes them and I got a few other bits and bobs and had a lovely time. I spent ages looking for a present for the secret Santa tonight but finally found two little tea light holders which were hand painted and quite cute.

I was about to go back to the car park and walked past a shop I like and saw a lovely tunic top and a lovely light, knitted cardigan. I tried both on and liked them so bought them!!

Then I really did go back to the car.

I went across to the Mount and Nosh Food to get my plate back and to buy some meat. The girl at the checkout asked me which Pavlova was mine and I told her the one with the hazelnuts. She said that was lovely and had been her favourite and she had taken some home. She said there were a lot of entries and I told her I was glad she liked it and it was good as I had not tasted it. I don't know why we couldn't have got them back, the staff must have all been very full of pavlova.

I went to the hospice op shop and had a look around as I need some 'things' for the bathrooms to go on the walls. I found a nice shell tile and a glass soap dish. I also found a lovely gold plated orchid in a frame similar to the one I got at the Red Cross. I paid $10 for it but I know they are selling on trademe for $45, it is really pretty. This one is from Singapore and the other one is from Hawaii.

I had a snack for lunch and watched Neighbours and was just about to watch the final one I have recorded and my friend called to invite me over for drinks tomorrow evening which will be nice. She is going to visit family in Oz for Christmas so won't be around for the holidays.

I made a spaghetti sauce for Jon's dinner or he can have one of the little steaks I bought today for his dinner.

I then got myself ready for our Lions dinner. It is so humid at the moment and it is hard to decide what to wear. By the time I was leaving the house we had a heavy downpour. Jon arrived home just as I was leaving.

The dinner was very good, ham, roast lamb, lovely selection of veg and a salad. We had fresh fruit salad for pudding and Christmas pud. One of the ladies had made a Christmas cake to have with our coffee but I brought mine home as I was full to bursting. No wine though as I was driving.

I read my Fifty Shades of Gray poem and it went down very well. One of the new members, Laurie from UK, plays the piano and played for us and we 'tried' to sing carols but it was really hard going and very slow but the thought was there.

I got home and had a coffee and now I am off to bed with Fifty Shades of Grey but so far I am only on the second chapter.

WEATHER
Misty day with some heavy showers in the evening 21 degrees

I am not a winner!!

We woke to what looked like a winter's day - mist and rain. However, it was warm and humid at 22 degrees.

I was a busy girl this morning as I had a lot to do and so started with some housework as Viv and Margaret were coming to tea.

I waited for the phone to ring about the Pavlova but it didn't so I will just have to go and collect my empty plate!! :-( I wish I had kept it now at least I would have had the pleasure of eating it even if other people didn't like it!! Sour grapes - no !!!!!

I left with the car loaded to go to the tip on my way to have my nails done.

The man at the tip made my day, just as I arrived it started to rain and I wa putting my jacket on and he came over and said 'Come on 'young' lady get out of the car'. He went to the boot and took out all my recycling and put it in the bins for me and then told me to have a nice day. Service with a smile.

I then went and had my nails done and had the hair on my chin threaded, not as painful as I thought. I will see how long it lasts before deciding if I have it done again. My nails look very pretty.

I then went to Bayfair and to the post office to post cards. I waited in the queue and sent the first lot and bought a padded envelope to send a present but she wouldn't weigh it till it was sealed so I had to fill it, address it, seal it and wait again.. I then had to go and buy some cards and calendars and a few bit for the girls before going back to the post office, writing the envelopes out and waiting in the queue again. Fortunately, the PO are not like UK and you don't wait so long. The man told me the last day for posting was Monday and did I want them to go express? In view of the fact that I have so far spent sixty pounds in postage with still more cards and two parcels to send I said no! I think the time has come to say no to Christmas cards and just send an email and give the money to a charity.

I just about got home in time to have a quick bite to eat and was just about to ice my 'egg yolk cake' but found the butter in the fridge had melted!!! It is in a tray in the fridge door and I noticed that it is on soft and must have been since we moved in and this has made the butter to be at room temperature. As I was storing my butter in there it had been resting on the back of the fridge and had all melted and was beyond use so had to be binned. My cake was filled with lemon curd and that had to do.

Margaret and Viv arrived and Margaret had brought me a lovely scarf she had knitted with one of those fancy wools and it is really pretty and I love it. she said it only took an hour to knit once she managed to keep the six stitches on the needle!! she also made one for Viv so two happy ladies.

Viv brought me a box of chocolates as a thank you for taking her to the hospital last Friday. I have some very kind friends.

Les phoned when M & V were here and she told me her visa has been refused and she has to leave the country immediately but they have given her till 17 December. I feel so bad for her just before Christmas when she should be with her grandchildren. she says she can't fight it anymore as it is costing too much emotionally and monetary. She is going to go over to Adelaide where she has friends and hopefully her residency visa will be through quickly. she can stay in Oz for three months so hopefully it will be sorted by then. Poor Les.

We had a nice afternoon and the cake was good and we had a good catch up.

Once Viv and Margaret left I sorted out the rest of my cards and parcels ready to get to the PO tomorrow.

Jon came home and is feeling OK but said he found it hard to concentrate at a meeting today.

I cooked some very nice pork fillet for dinner and we had MORE strawberries for pudding. The strawberries are soooo good this year, I just can't resist buying them when I go to the supermarket as they look so red and scrummy and they are!!

Once all the cards are off tomorrow I look forward to sitting down and watching some TV!!

Dentist tomorrow!!!

WEATHER
Mist and rain all day 22 degrees.

Tuesday

I was up early this morning as I had to decorate my Pavlova!! I really question why I put myself in for these things - seemed like a good idea at the time!!!

The Pavlova looked pretty good when it was finished and the cream hid a multitude of cracks. The problem is I have no idea what it tasted like apart from a few crumbs which fell off it could taste terrible!!

I set off with the plate on the floor of the car as I thought that would be the best place for it and I managed to get it there all in one piece. I took it into the shop and there was only one other one there but it was only 8.15 am and they all had to be in by 10.00. The lady said it looked lovely. The other one that was there was a traditional one and then a young boy brought his in for the junior section. I left as another one was coming in. My friend was going there to do some shopping this afternoon and said she would let me know how many there were  but I haven't heard from her yet. Just so you all know there is no big prize for this competition it is a dozen eggs every week for a year and $50 voucher to spend in the shop. I must be mad!! I'll be giving eggs to everyone if I win as we don't eat that many in a week.

I then went across to the other side of town to my keep fit class which was really good and she worked us very hard.

I came straight home after my coffee and made a cake using up the egg yolks. It has a bit of a dip in the middle but not too much and once iced it will be fine. I had enough mix to make some little buns and Jon said they are very light so fingers crossed for the cake for tea tomorrow.

My Avon friend called round with my things and we had a chat. she told me that her friend's husband, who was diagnosed at the same time as Jon, died last week. Makes me realise more than ever how lucky Jon has been. This man had been losing weight for a long time so must have had problems and not done anything about them - very sad.

I went across to the Mount to my aqua aerobics class. Outside the pool was a large group of children all waiting to go in. I asked if our class was on and was told it was and I thought Oh no, all those kids, this is going to be fun. Usually they rope off two lanes for us down the length of the pool which is too much space as we usually only have about 7-8 ladies. Today they gave us the end of the pool and roped it off across the width and wouldn't you know we had 16 so they had to give us more space.

Once Carla arrived and the class started ALL the kids in the pool joined in and it was so funny watching them do the exercises. They didn't last long though as it got too much for them and they eventually had to get out and get the buses back to school. There will be lots of parties like this now as it is the end of term and they quite often take them around or up the Mount and then have a swim so i think we better get used to it for the next couple of weeks.

I got home about 6.00 and Jon was in already. I made the dinner and then after dinner I sat and did all my Christmas cards so that I can get them into the post tomorrow. Phew!!

WEATHER
Some cloud 20 degrees

Washday Monday

We had a really rough night last night both weather wise and Bertie wise. We had howling gales and wind and the rain makes a lot of noise on the roof.

Jon was up through the night again due to Bertie, I really wish he would settle down again.

I felt quite low this morning and didn't know why, the weather I think. It was miserable and windy and wet and I really had to push myself to get on and do my washing. I was glad I did as the sun came out and due to the strong wind I got it all dry.

I used my new steam mop but I can't say I am impressed and think I will stick to mop and bucket as it has left streak marks all over the floor.

I took Tot out, if you can call it out 25 yards down the road but she is happy with that.

I had my Pilates class at 1.45 which was very good and then I popped to the supermarket to get some hazelnuts and some strawberries and cream for my Pavlova competition tomorrow. I am doing an 'alternative' as I would not like to compete against the Kiwis to make a Pavlova.

It got really hot this afternoon but we are still having strong winds and I just wish they would go as I hate the wind but the weatherman said we got up to 26 this afternoon, he also said we might have more rain tomorrow!!

I got back and cooked my Pavlova which has crushed hazelnuts in and tomorrow morning I will add the cream and strawberries and I need to take it to the shop for judging before I go to my keep fit class so an early start for me. I am sure I won't win anything but it is nice to support the shop and have a go.

I did my ironing this afternoon and changed the duvet to summer one as it is a bit warm at night now.

Jon came home early as he was tired and we had a cup of tea and then he had a nap.

We had dinner and watched some TV.

WEATHER
Horrible start to the day with wind and rain then 26 degrees to end it.

A good day

Jon was up quite a lot last night and ended up taking more tablets and eventually Bertie settled down.

We had a phone call from Kirsty this morning and a long chat with her.

Sharon called and said that they could come over and Jon told them 2.00.

We went into Tauranga and had a coffee and then went to buy a heavier base for the sunshade as the one we have is not very strong.

We got back and I just had enough time to make Jon a sandwich and do a bit of cleaning and hang out the washing before Sharon and Des arrived.

We spent a lovely afternoon chatting to them and they brought over a bottle of their homemade wine and it was surprisingly good and we had some nibbles with it.

When they left it was time to get the dinner going and Jon watched the highlights of the rugby and he is so pleased they won and will have to make sure he does not gloat too much at work tomorrow.

We watched some TV but I fell asleep again!!

Only 4 weeks till Heather arrives - exciting now!!

WEATHER
Cloudy and windy 20 degrees

First day of the season at the beach

I was just too tired to do my blog last night so will just fill in for now and post it.

We had a lie in and then got up and Jon cooked himself some scrambled eggs for breakfast but I just had toast.

I got the picnic ready and took Tot out for a walk down the street but we didn't get far. On my way back I met the neighbour from next door (the other side) He is also called Dave and a young guy. Very pleasant and has been there for only three months and said if we need anything just ask which was nice of him.

We set off to the Mount and took the recycling on the way. You can tell it is coming up to Christmas as it was really busy with people having a clear out.


The traffic was pretty heavy so we went round the beach road and managed to find a good paring spot. We walked into the main street and were lucky enough to find a table at a cafe on the street. I had been a little worried as to how Jon would manage to stand out in the heat but we watched it in style in the shade. It was pretty much the same as last year and lacked atmosphere as there was not enough music but it was still nice.

We did a bit of shopping and bought a nice picture for the living room.

We went back to the car with the intention to sit in Pilot Bay and have our picnic but the wind was coming across the bay and it was cold so we drove round to the main beach and sat down there and it was very nice.

Unfortunately, Jon did not relax and as Bertie was playing up we didn't stay long which was a shame. I am not sure how Jon will cope on a holiday away from home if he can't relax on our local beach which is one of the reasons I have not wanted to confirm our booking to Norfolk Island.

We got home and I went and sat on the deck and read my book which was very nice and Jon stayed inside.

We had a cup of tea and I put some duck portions in to roast for dinner.

The duck was really nice and we both enjoyed dinner.

I was rather rosy from my first proper bout of sunshine this season.


WEATHER
Sunny and warm 23 degrees