New Year's Day

When you have a lot to do to get ready for a bbq you really appreciate not drinking the night before!

I took all the things out of the freezer and left them to defrost and we went down to the Mount for a coffee.

It was very busy down there as a very large cruise ship was in so lots of  'cruise ship shaped' people walking around. They stand out like a sore thumb with their trainers, socks, cropped trousers for the ladies and shorts and polo tops for the men and both usually with baseball caps on and usually very overweight! And if that is not enough to recognise them they all have an identity card hung around their necks! I really hope I never look like that if I get to go on a cruise.

After coffee we went home and I started getting myself organised and prepared all the food and got the plates out. I had planned to cook beer can chicken and had bought a can of beer to perch it on. My friend Les called me for a chat and as I was talking to her I saw Jon with the tape measure, measuring the chicken!! Now, I always go by weight so not sure what he was up to.

I finished chatting to Les and asked him. He told me that the size of the can plus the chicken was going to be too high for the lid on our new bbq!! We decided to cook it on the other bbq that we have downstairs in the garden but I had to go and buy a smaller can of beer at the local off licence. The man laughed at me when I told him I wanted one small can and what it was for. Unfortunately, they don't sell them on their own so I had to buy a six pack. this is one expensive beer can chicken!

I was all sorted by the time Sharon, Des and Margaret arrived and we had a lovely afternoon with them and lots of laughter . The beer can chicken was a huge success as was the fresh tuna. We also cooked some cabbage on the bbq as we had seen when in Rarotonga and it was yummy. I also cooked a green bean recipe with pecan nuts and a maple and vinaigrette dressing far too much food but it is New Year!

For pudding we had a Heston Blumenthal Waitrose Hidden Orange pudding which I had bought last January from the local deli which sells a few Waitrose items. They are usually $50 but I had bought it for $25 still expensive but oh my word was it worth it. It has to be the best ever Christmas pudding I and everyone else has ever eaten and the candied orange in the middle was delicious. I had also managed to find a jar of brandy butter so we had a real feast.

We had a few showers of rain during the afternoon but our new sunshade was big enough to keep us all dry. However, about 8.30 we had a big downpour and so came indoors. Jon had so much to drink and I did think he would pay for it later but he enjoyed himself and he doesn't drink much usually these days.

Sharon and Des left at about 10.00 and I had a lot of clearing up to do. I let Jon help for a little while and then thought it was better to send him off to bed before he did some damage! I soon had the kitchen shipshape and then I went to bed.

What a way to start the New Year.


WEATHER
Sunny spells with a few showers 25 degrees.

New Year's Eve

After doing some washing first thing this morning and getting it6 hung out I went to the supermarket to get my shopping for our bbq tomorrow. I stopped for a coffee and sat in a little plaza watching the world got by for a while.

Shopping done I went back home and just spent the day doing odd jobs around the house.

Jon came home at 2.30 and he said he was the last one in the office! He said it was very quiet in the office and a waste of time going in but if he doesn't go in he doesn't get paid. One of the silly employment rules here in NZ - no holiday pay till you have worked a year and then you get four weeks plus four for the coming year!!! Never mind.

We had a cup of tea and didn't do much else really.

I made the easiest New Year's Eve dinner I have ever made in my life. Pasta with fresh tomatoes cooked in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Jon is happy to eat vegetarian food now and I am happy to eat it so that is fine by me. We did have merengue with strawberries and clotted cream for pudding though. Not much to drink and Jon was in bed by 11.00.

I stayed up till midnight as I as trying to sort out the computer as I had been hacked so sent out an email to warn people. Not sure why it has happened to me so many times and never to Jon, it gets very annoying and I hate the people who cause so much trouble and don't understand why they do it. I really would like to meet one and ask them.

The fireworks started around 9.30 but Totty was not at all bothered by them. Could be she is deafer than I think!

I sorted some photos out for FB of the first part of our trip and need to get the others done.

I went to bed just after midnight so I did see the New Year in!

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 25 degrees

Monday

I rang my elderly neighbour this morning in UK to wish her a happy New Year and she sounded quite cheerful but I do feel for her not being able to get out and about.

I then rang my friend Mary and we had a catch up but I had to finish as I had a doctor's appointment so off I went.

I then went to see if I could buy some fresh tuna or swordfish down at the wharf but due to the bad weather they did not have much fish at all. She said they never have swordfish these days but has a system that she will text me when they get tuna in and if I want any I just go down to the wharf.

I then went and had a coffee before going to one of the better supermarkets and they did have tuna. The lady told me she would try and order me some swordfish from Auckland for the end of the week and she will call me. Better service than Tesco I think!

I bumped into my friend Sharon and her mum, Margaret while out and we had a chat. They are coming here for a bbq on NY Day.

I had a text from my friend Alison to say her new granddaughter arrived last night Zara Emily and she weighed 8lbs 12oz so a big girl and she was nine days late.

I got home and did some housework as the house was full of spiders and dead flies when we got back. I hung out two loads of washing but the rain came down and I got soaked bringing them back in.

Jon came home early as he said it is so quiet in the office.

I made chicken Caesar salad for dinner tonight, this has become one of Jon's favourite meals. I thought it would be easy but by the time I had finished cooking it looked like I had made a full roast dinner with lots of washing up to do!

We had dinner and watched some TV and then I sorted some photos for FB but so many to sort it is going to take me ages.

WEATHER
Showers and sunny 23 degrees very humid

Saturday and Sunday

Well all we saw of Saturday was an hour and a half as our flight left at 1.30 am and once on board we changed to Kiwi time and when we landed in Auckland it was 5.00am Sunday!

The flight was OK and we were so tired but it is very difficult to sleep when the seats don't move back very much. I think I have been spoilt! Neither of us slept properly but we did manage to doze and the flight was smooth due to a detour around some nasty weather but 20 minutes longer than it should have been.

Sunday

Auckland was very wet when we landed and I was glad I had kept a cardigan out of the case. What did I say about going home to warm weather - silly of me!

We were stopped at customs as we had brought a wooden tray but then I could not remember which case it was in! We opened both cases twice before I found it - well, we were very tired. There was no problem with it and we were sent on our way.

Outside we rang the hotel to collect us and take us back to collect the car and we were soon on our way home.

The drive home was dreadful as the rain was so heavy, there was not much traffic but horrible rain.

We intended to stop for breakfast but it was far to early for anywhere to be open. We stopped for a loo break and we both got soaked. As we were so wet we decided to go home and get changed and then go out for breakfast.

Finally home and still heavy rain. I managed to unpack the cases and get all the dirty washing into the garage ready for tomorrow.

We got changed into some warmer clothes and went to Bayfair and had some breakfast. I was by now feeling ill with tiredness but we had to get some food so went to the supermarket before going home.

I sat on the sofa and fell asleep for a couple of hours but Jon couldn't sleep.

We had lunch and then I sorted some more things out and put them away. Unpacking takes as long as packing!

I went next door to get the post and opened the cards and parcels which was nice. I gave Jon his Christmas present which I had bought back in August. A 50th anniversary Dr Who coin from the NZ mint. They have become quite sought after now as not many were made and he was very pleased with it.

We left to go and collect Totty as there was a lull in the rain.

They told us at the kennels that she had been sleeping and staying in their house as she was a bit too bossy to be with the other dogs but was happy in the house with just their dog, what a spoilt girl. She was very happy to see us.

Back home I prepared the dinner and we had a roast chicken which in the morning had seemed like a good idea as it was cold but it was now very humid and I felt like I was in the oven, too.

After dinner we watched some TV but then went for an early night.


WEATHER
Rarotonga 30 and sunny Auckland 17 and heavy rain

Friday, last day in Rarotonga

Going to bed so early these last few nights has resulted in us waking up around 6.30 every day so this morning found us out walking along the beach very early but it was lovely.

Our last lovely breakfast here today, I am going to miss all this freshly prepared fruit and a warm muffin every day!

We decided to visit the tropical gardens this morning and we were glad we went early as it was very hot walking around. We have loved having our Z3 but you do get hot in it.

We then went back to the Pacific Resort hotel where we have enjoyed some lovely iced coffees and we had another today.

We carried on around the island and went to Black a Rock beach, such a shame I didn't have my togs as it was lovely and I got very wet paddling. I took some bread to feed the fish but I couldn't get in deep enough to attract them. Usually beaches near the airport are horrible but this is beautiful and pretty much at the end of the runway.

We then went and bought a few souvenirs before going to buy a black pearl for me from Jon and it is lovely. They are grown on a little island not far from here and it looks very nice on the gold chain he bought me for Christmas. How lucky am I?

We then went to a lovely bar for lunch overlooking the water which was the most beautiful blue. It overlooks one of only two exits from the reef and although the water close by is safe you can see the rips a little further out so you would need to be careful. I had smoked marlin fish cakes and Jon had swordfish both meals were very good.

It was then time to take the car back. From there we walked to the supermarket to get some things for dinner as we had a big lunch again.

We then waited for the bus back to the hotel and went anti clockwise as that was the first one to leave.

Back at the hotel I had my last sunbathe and tried to sleep but couldn't so we went for another walk on the beach.

We showered and I washed my hair and tried to calm it down. I think I will need to put an oil treatment on it when I get home.

We went to the bar for a cocktail and Jim gave me a cup of his turkey soup which, despite the heat, was very good and I really enjoyed it. We have not had one bad meal on this holiday and I have learnt some new cooking ideas. Jon is not good with meat now and after eating so much fresh tuna and swordfish I think we might go more vegetarian but include fish as it suits him better. Bertie has behaved very well. We had a drink and watched the sunset which was probably the best we have had so I had to run and get my camera.

We paid our bill and tried to thank Jim for a wonderful time but he became very shy about accepting the complements. Not many places like this where you can get a Christmas Dinner for $35.

We had a sandwich and passed a couple of hours reading and snoozing. As they forgot to pick us up on arrival we were naturally worried that the same would happen and as the place is in darkness by 9.30 goodness knows who we would contact after 11.00! Jim had said if we had not been collected by 12.15 for our 1.30 flight!!!! To phone him.

But we needn't have worried as he was on time, sulky and stopped at the petrol station and went in to do some shopping for longer than the trip took but at least we got here.

Now sitting in the Koru Lounge waiting for our flight to be called.

There will be no Saturday blog as we lose Saturday apart from an hour and a half of it.

I just want to board now and get some sleep.

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 30 degrees

Thursday, Boxing Day

We woke to another lovely day, very early but felt rested.

We had some of the lovely, huge pawpaw from our fruit basket and I had a lovely passion fruit. It is a shame Jon is not allowed them as they are really big and delicious, a different variety from NZ.

We went across for breakfast at 8.30 and had a plate of fruit and a banana muffin freshly baked looking out to the reef. I will never forget this holiday.

Jim, owner, said he was going to boil up the turkey bones and make soup and if we were around at 1.00 we could have some. I don't think I fancy soup in this heat!

We got ready and went for a drive around the island and to look for a palace built of coral by the Brits many years ago. It proved difficult to find and was really not worth it as it looked like an old run down house!

We went into town as I desperately needed a hat to tame my wild island hair which is taking a beating with the open top car, soft water, salt and sea, too.

Would you believe a shop had Boxing Day sales mostly island clothing but it was very busy. I did manage to buy a hat, too.

We wanted to find the old road which goes around the island but we kept ending up on the main road and I was by now very hot and sweaty as was Jon. We stopped to buy a bottle of water and then I said let's just go on to the hotel where we enjoyed a coffee yesterday so we did.

So nice to get onto the beach under their lovely canopy and enjoy a coffee.

We then went to the beach for an hour and decided that our beach and our hotel, although not posh, is by far the better. The beach is nicer and quiet and the hotel very friendly.

I had a swim in the lagoon and then we went back to the hotel where we had coffee and we had lunch which was very good. We ordered ice cream for pudding and it took over half an hour for them to bring it and only then when I asked where it was. But you don't get cross here as it does no good!

We then drove back and Jon had a sleep in the hammock and I went to the beach and lay in the sun and had a swim and then lay in the sun and had a swim........... All afternoon.

It was Music and Cocktails at Sunset in the beach hut this evening but after a shower we decided to stay on our deck, where we could see and hear everything that was going on, and have our nibbles for dinner as we had a big lunch.

The sunset was lovely this evening and we enjoyed sitting admiring the view till bedtime.

Really sorry to be leaving tomorrow, I think this is one of the best holidays we have ever had. I know we have been very lucky to visit all the places we have but we don't often have a relaxing holiday in the sun like this as we are usually 'seeing' things. One good thing, at least we know we are going back to a summer.

WEATHER
Sunny 31 degrees

Wednesday, Christmas Day

Wow what a beautiful morning after all the rain yesterday.

I decided to go for a swim first thing as we were up so early and breakfast was late today. The water was lovely, not as warm as Aitutaki but clear. I noticed what looked like a fossilised fish in the water and I touched it and got the shock of my life when it moved! Just as well I had my reef shoes on. It was very big and very ugly. I will Google it when I have better wi-fit think it might be a stone fish so glad I had my shoes on! I have since Googled it and it was either a stone fish, very dangerous or a flying gurnard, not very dangerous.

I could hear Jon talking so assumed he had managed to contact the girls so I got out to chat to them. It was lovely to see Jane, Heather and Jason and hopefully we can speak to Kirsty and James later. We did lose the connection so our chat was brief. Heather remarked on my big hair and I told her it was island hair and I can't do a thing with it.

We then went across to the bar for breakfast and it was lovely with everyone wishing everyone a merry Christmas. Breakfast was fruit followed by banana pancakes freshly made by Jim. What a character this guy is. We saw that Chas had two turkeys cooking on the BBQ, there is not much that this man can't cook on the BBQ.

We then went out for a ride and put the top down on the Z3 which did nothing for my hair! We drove all round the island stopping to have a listen to the church services. One choir was singing a hymn, He has Risen! I think they have the season wrong!

We got to Muri Beach and went into one of the plush hotels the same chain as the one we went to on Aitutaki. We went to the Barefoot Bar on the beach and had iced coffee overlooking the lagoon which is pretty shallow here and you can walk across to the island on the other side.

We left there and stopped at a shop to see if I could buy a hat but ended up with a loaf of bread and some butter as we could only buy wraps yesterday and the bread looked much better.

Back at our resort I went in for another swim and then Jon poured me a glass of wine and I went to dry off in the hammock and I didn't spill a drop of wine as I got in.

We then got showered and ready for our 1.00 lunch. Jon put his new Island shirt on and we went across for lunch. It was a lovely atmosphere over there and we sat by two women from Melbourne who were staying at another resort which had nothing on for Christmas and they had no transport. Why have guests for Christmas and not make an effort? Our young Italian friend Nicolais also came to sit with us so we had a really jolly time.

Lunch was delicious, very different to a traditional dinner but lovely. Pudding was passion fruit cheesecake and macadamia nut pie with ice cream.

The guy who played the piano last night was there with his wife and another man who comes to play the ukelele on Fridays was there so we had entertainment, too. A lady danced to I'm Dreaming of a white Christmas Polynesian dancing with all the actions and it was lovely.

I tried to get everyone up for the hokeycokey and managed to get a few up but the French guests were too reserved! Party poopers!

We went back to our room and I put my togs on and went to lie on the beach and Jon listened to his iPad in the hammock and we both had a snooze. I woke and hand a swim and then a shower and read my book.

Dinner tonight was on our deck, ham, cheese and bread and it was like a feast!

I haven't managed to speak to Kirsty as she has no Internet yet but she did email me to say James' nanna had a fall and broke her hip just as they were finishing their meal so James parents had to go to the hospital. What a shame.

We on the other hand have had the most amazing Christmas Day and one we will never forget.

Only two more days and we go home. This holiday has flown by so fast.

WEATHER
Sunny, clear sky 30 degrees

Tuesday, Christmas Eve

Well I wish we had stayed on Aitutaki! I am not sure who had this idea of a bungalow on the beach? The sea is so noisy combined with the ceiling fans, loads of insects, some very loud people shouting and laughing at 2.00 in the morning and Jon's clock lighting up the room like Blackpool I didn't sleep very well!

We woke to heavy rain which looked set for the day! Oh dear, but it is the cyclone and wet season. I think we were spoilt on Aitutaki which is 250km further north. Rarotonga has hills, well small mountains, so more chance of rain. Our 4WD goes out whatever the weather! Looks like I might need all those books on the eReader after all!

Well the rain stopped and we went across to the beach hut for breakfast. We had tea or coffee and a choice of juice a plate of fruit each and the passion fruit here are delicious. We also had a freshly baked passion fruit muffin and toast with spreads, more than enough.

We went to wait by the road again for our 8.30 pick up. Unfortunately, it didn't arrive. Jon went into check at 9.25 which would give us time to get the next bus into the town if we had been forgotten and we had! Things are not going so well on this part of the trip!

We were supposed to be dropped off after the trip to collect the car but they have now arranged for the car to be brought here, let's see how long that takes. At least the sun is trying to peep through now.

Well now another change of plan. We are to get the bus into the town and they will have the car at the main office.

I have been typing this as things were happening we are now at the end of the day so I will continue while sitting out on the deck surrounded by insects, listening to Christmas songs and listening to the ocean.

Our bus trip was good and we saw around the island. There is only one road around and you get the bus direction 'clockwise' or 'anti clockwise' easy as and it is $5.

We arrived in town and went for our first coffee which was very good. We then went to the police station for Jon to get a licence which is a money maker. $20 and you get one, a good souvenir. As the police were closing at 2.00 and closed for two days there was a long queue so we just had to wait. Jon had his photo taken and was asked to smile and came out five minutes later with a new plastic licence. I think it would be easier to add $20 to the car hire as this is only like a tax.

We then went to get the car. Unfortunately, there was another cock up thanks to the hotel and they knew nothing about us. After a few phone calls, lots of explanations and a wait we finally got a car - a BMW Z3! It is old but looks the part so off we went. We won't be going far on an island that is only 32km and a top speed of 60 in a few areas but mostly 50.

We then went to buy some wine and beer and then for a late lunch and just managed to get a pizza before they closed.

It was still raining and very hot and humid but the forecast is for sun tomorrow.

We then bought Jon a Christmas shirt! Watch this space!

We bought a few things for Christmas tea. Lunch here is at 1.00 and is turkey and there will be 16 of us but dinner is off so we have bought some ham and cheese and that will be fine sitting here on the deck.

We got back to the hotel and I had a snooze, very tired after no sleep and an unnecessary early start.

We got ready and went across to the beach bar which was looking busy with people from other resorts. When we got there the owner said he didn't know we were coming! They really are the limit here as we had only told him at breakfast that we were coming tonight and wanted dinner tomorrow. However, you can't get cross with them.

They had a Kiwi playing the piano, Garth someone or other, and he was very good and the atmosphere was very jolly and the sun was now shinning so a lovely sunset. The BBQ was excellent. The chef, a real islander, cooked everything on the BBQ. We started with smoked marlin in mayo on a plate with cos lettuce and you wrap it in the leaf and it was yummy. We then had tiny bits of tuna with onion followed by spicy sausage.

The main BBQ was corn on the cob, teriyaki pork skewers, fish skewers and beer can chicken. Roast pumpkin, baked tomatoes, delicious cabbage all cooked on the BBQ. Sweet potato salad, salad and a lovely potato salad. All of it was really lovely. I asked Chas, the chef, to come back to NZ with me but he said he is happy here.

Pudding was two lovely cakes made by a very big lady here who sang some lovely songs later on. Canadian Dan, who is here for the second year and staying four weeks, said she must have put on about 50lbs since last year, she is very, very big but a really lovely lady.

We sat chatting to a lovely young Italian guy, Nicolai, and he took some nice photos of Jon and I at sunset. He is alone but a very nice guy.

After a sing song it was time to go back to our rooms. We had a glass of wine on the deck and are looking forward to Christmas Day and hopefully now we have Internet sorted we can contact the girls.


WEATHER
Heavy rain to start 24 degrees, beautiful evening 28 degrees.

Monday, Aitutaki - Rarotonga

We had a lie in and a leisurely breakfast, lots more lovely fruit. We were due to leave for the airport at 10.45 so not enough time for a sunbathe and get all hot and sweaty.

I managed to log on and sent an email but not sure if it went or not as so slow.

We left for the airport, all of three minutes ride. We went to the check in and the man said Jonathan and Norma! Never had that happen before. Later when we boarded we realised why, only six people on the flight and we were the only two foreigners, the rest were Cook Islanders!

The flight came in on time and in twenty minutes we were taking off, Ryan Air would be impressed! We had been given the back row of four seats. The rest of the plane was one seat and two seats making three across.

I took some lovely photos as we took off of our hotel and the lagoon and then settled down to read with a coffee. The flight was very bumpy and I really had to hang on to my coffee and book. Maybe it was because it was the back row! Lol!

When we arrived we were surprised at the change in the weather, it was cloudy and had been raining and very humid. We collected our bags but nobody was waiting to meet us outside. After twenty minutes Jon rang the hotel and was told the taxi was there waiting. We were pretty obvious, two white people with luggage looking lost but still nobody came. Another fifteen minutes we rang again and were told the same but they didn't tell us who to look for.

After an hour we were hot and very fed up so Jon rang again and was told the owner was on his way. I have read about the owner on Trip Advisor and he has a bit of a name for himself and not all good. Anyway, he eventually arrived but no apology and he stored our cases in the back of the ute, Jon got in the front and he made a bit of space for me in the back with the vegetables that he had obviously just bought. Not such a good start.

Jimmy, is Hawaiian and has lived here since 2001 and I can't say I like him much, loud and sarcastic and a lot to say for himself but the bungalows is lovely with a lovely deck and right on the beach.

We went straight to the bar for a drink and some lunch, not the best choices for Jon but we ordered a Camembert and it came like a ploughman's and was very good. We also had a very alcoholic welcome cocktail, served in jam jars which is the usual drinking vessel at this bar, and sat on the beach and watched the waves breaking over the reef. The two hotel dogs were playing in the water and having a great time. After chasing each other they would stop and look down into the water at the fish, very funny to watch them.

We went back to our room and unpacked and set up our Christmas tree again. We have a beautiful bowl of fruit in our room and some lovely flowers. There are more luxury touches here than in the other hotel.

Jon went to book a car and the 4WD trip around the island and the cultural night. He managed to get the show for tonight and the 4WD for tomorrow morning and they will drop us off at the car hire place. We then have to go to the police station for a licence - just a money making scheme really. We have to get it tomorrow or the police station will be closed for the holidays!

We got ready and waited on the roadside outside the hotel for our transport which was half an hour late - very much island time here. We were taken to the meeting house and Jon said he would be the chief as everyone else on the bus was shy.

We had a lovely evening and sat with a young American/Indian couple who are just here for a week - a long way to come for a week but there are now direct flights from LA so more Americans are discovering it. The food was OK and the dancing show very good. Unfortunately, I found the compare very much like a Maori and he talked a bit too long for a fun evening, not quite right for holiday entertainment. The highlight was Jon, as the chief of the red canoe, was asked up onto the stage and invited to dance with one of the young dancers clad in grass skirt and coconut bra top! The other chief was a loud American from Hawaii so he did have the advantage on hula hula dancing but Jon put on a good shop and was soundly applauded.

Back to the hotel, all of five minutes and the bar was closed and everyone was in bed - it was 9.20! Never mind we have an early start tomorrow, we are being picked up at 8.30 but no doubt it will be late. Breakfast doesn't start till 8.30 but they told us to go over to the bar and we can have it early.

We have booked the Christmas dinner and we were told there is a BBQ here tomorrow night with a famous Kiwi piano player and some fire dancing so that sound interesting or we can sit on our deck and watch and have the BBQ food here, too.

Hopefully we can get some Internet tomorrow and be able to contact the girls but I don't hold much hope for it as Aitutaki wi-fi was sooooo slow.

WEATHER
Aitutaki - very hot and humid with light cloud 31 degrees.
Rarotonga - cloudy, humid 29 degrees

Sunday, Aitutaki

Another lovely peaceful sleep. Not sure why people complain about the chucks, we never hear them!

We were allowed onto the new floor for breakfast this morning but quite honestly we would have been happier outside, not sure why Thomas, owner, can't see the advantage.

Breakfast for me is lovely as there is a choice of cereal and fruit - pineapple, guava, pawpaw, passion fruit, mango and watermelon - I can have my five a day + here. Then pancakes and toast but I am happy with just fruit.

We asked about hiring a car but due to so many locals coming back for the holidays there were none available. The other option was a moped! Jon hasn't driven a motorbike for more than 40 years and I have only been on a moped belonging to my friend in Godella back in 1976ish so we were not too sure about it.

Thomas suggested we walk down to the café and grill where they hire them from and try one out. The walk down was very hot, seems much hotter than yesterday.

I tried to persuade the man to let us have one of the cars for a few hours but he was not having it so we ended up with a moped after Jon's test drive. If we didn't have the moped we would not see the island as there is no public transport.

We drove back to our resort and it was a little wobbly but not bad. Getting on and off was my problem due to my very sore legs from snorkelling sunburn! I should know better!

We collected our things and stored them in the box under the seat and off we set. Not far down the road Jon shouted Ouch! And said he had been stung. We stopped and I checked but although his neck was red I couldn't see anything else. This was a good start!

We carried on and we both settled into the ride and really enjoyed it. It didn't take long to get round the island and I felt like the paparazzi snapping away with my camera.

The roads were very quiet as it was Sunday and they still have a day of rest here and go to church. The population is about 1600 and there are 8 churches, we passed at least four and they were all full.

We really enjoyed our moped ride and saw all of the island. We wanted to stop for a drink and found the only bar open, it was 11.30 and we decided to have lunch. We chose fish and chips and salad. When it came it was lovely fish in batter with chips but the salad was sweet potato and mango in a coconut sauce and very good but far too much. We later found out it was the lovely butterfly fish we had been swimming with yesterday. Had I known it was a reef fish I would not have eaten it as you can get very nasty toxic poisoning  from them and one dose of that in Fiji was more than enough for me.

We had bought drinks in the little shop attached to the bar and if I had to do my weekly shop there I don't know how I would manage as they didn't stock much - no supermarket here.

We met up with a couple who we had seen in our resort. They turned out to be Brits living in NZ. I now know how we get the whinging Pom label. She was awful saying how different it was to three years ago and how she didn't feel well and neither did her husband Roger. She was not happy on a moped as she had no hat (they had been in Rarotonga before here so not sure why she hadn't bought herself a hat). We couldn't wait to get away from them so finished our meal and left. Very strange woman.

We went across the road and sat on the beach which is the opposite side of the island to where we are staying and also open onto the ocean beyond the reef so much noisier and the water not so calm but still very blue.

We then carried on round and came to the very plush resort of Pacific Resort and we went in to have a look around.

We went to the outside bar and they had the most beautiful infinity pool and seating area onto the beach. We ordered an iced coffee and the waitress was lovely and happily chatted to us about life on Aitutaki. It is the quiet season now as it is cyclone season and she said they only had three bungalows occupied. I know from looking in the brochure that it is very expensive to stay there but we wondered why they don't reduce the price to get more people in? I checked and it is five hundred pounds a night for a double room! Wow! I really don't think it is worth that.

Our coffee was delicious and we walked around and took photos. It was amazing to see how big the waves were crashing over the reef. Really beautiful but we were happy to be inside on the lagoon where it was much calmer.

By now we were very hot and I was finding sitting on the bike with sunburnt legs very hard so we headed for home.

We stopped off at one more beach and as we were parking and I was getting off Jon moved the bike and I ended up in a heap on the ground! No damage done though. We had a walk along the beach but decided where we were staying was by far the best spot on the island and we headed back.

We left the moped at the café and then went and enjoyed a stubbie overlooking the water another good day in paradise.

We walked back to the resort and it was extremely hot so we changed and went to the beach. The tide was in for the first time for us and so the sand bars were covered. Who needs a pool with this lovely water to swim in. I thought I ought to be shrinking with all the time spent in the water but I fear the food is putting paid to that! Jon slept and I swam. A couple swam, walked a sand bar, swam across a channel, walked another sand bar and were then across on the island resort of another luxury hotel. I would have loved to do it but not on my own. I did go about half way and that was lovely and so many fish swimming around.

We went back to our bungalow and after a shower we had a cup of tea and a rest before sorting out the packing ready to leave tomorrow.

Dinner tonight was a BBQ. Thomas told us he was full tonight so we reserved a table but there was only us and two couples there. It said entertainment but we didn't have any. Thomas' family arrived from a Rarotonga this evening to spend Christmas here so they were all having a family meal at the house. However, the Sunday waiting staff were lovely and one of the ladies spent a long time chatting to us and telling us about her life here. They are happy to make a living, feed their children and that is it. They don't want material things, you can't buy much here anyway, they enjoy fresh food, grown by themselves and fish caught in the lagoon or from the ocean. She told us that the fish we had today was probably the beautiful butterfly fish that I had been admiring when snorkelling in the lagoon yesterday. I felt very mean. It seems worse than eating your own chickens!

Back to our room and still no Internet so will have to wait until we get to Rarotonga and hope we can get a connection for Christmas Day!

WEATHER
Sunny 31 degrees.

Friday, Saturday, Friday, Saturday.

A busy day took Tot to kennels which took longer than I thought as it is much further than I thought!

Went to see Carol on the way back to take the truffles and saw her grandson, cute little boy.

Then to buy some reef shoes for Jon and I.

Home and a coffee. Hung out the washing.

Went to see David and Edwina to say we were going away and ask them to take our mail in and look after my poinsettia.

Finally got into the packing and had it all sorted in an hour impressive even for me!

Jon came home I sent a few emails then cleared the fridge.

Finally left at 3.00 but had to go and change the reef shoes for Jon as they were too small.

Off to Auckland and the traffic was very quiet for the start of the holiday.

Check in at Jet Park and I needed a cuppa.

Went for dinner, two starters for me and fish for Jon.

Early night for our early start.

Weather
Sunny with some cloud 23 degrees.

Saturday
Up and shower and shuttle to the airport. I have never seen AKL so busy but then I have never travelled at Christmas!

Went to the Koru Lounge for breakfast and waited for our flight to be called.

Good flight not a bad meal. I watched We Are The Millers and thought it was very funny. I then watched Beyond The Edge about Sir Edmund Hilary climbing Everest which was good.

Friday again
Landed in Rarotonga, very hot 29 degrees. Man singing in arrivals to welcome everyone. Had to declare my lemons and could not take them in. Just as well I knew where they were in the case and the customs man said it was a very tidy case and well packed!

Met by a lady who told us to go to do domestic departures and check in for our flight to Aitutaki. All very easy.

We had a coffee while we waited, very hot in the airport which was all open so no AC.

Small plane, 34 seats, great flight. Lovely landing coming in over the lagoon. Everyone was so excited to see it.

Met by Elaine and given lovely frangipani lei and then taken to our hotel in five minutes!

Beautiful spot, check in over a lovely fruit cocktail. Booked a lagoon tour for tomorrow.

The accommodation is basic and being renovated but that does not matter as the location is to die for.

Very hot.

Unpacked and then went to sit on the beach for an hour. We went for a walk along the beach all so lovely.

Back to room shower and dinner. Jon had fresh tuna and I had a delicious chicken curry.

Back to room and had one hour of very slow Internet which would not do much.

Early bedtime, so relaxed and sleepy.

Saturday again this is very confusing!

As we only have a sheet on the bed and the AC on it was a bit chilly in the early hours but we both slept till 8.00.

We were told last night that breakfast would be served outside as workmen were coming in to put a new floor in the bar/restaurant area. It really was no hardship to sit outside for breakfast. I cannot explain just how beautiful this place is. The water is the most beautiful turquoise and the sand so white. I think stale bread would have tasted good sitting looking at this view. We had fruit and toast.

Our boat drew up on the beach as we were having breakfast but we still had 40 minutes before it left so went back to collect our things. No rushing here.

We set off on our trip and the crew were a Kiwi Maori, John,  and his partner came along as it was her day off and Timmy a Cook Islander. We picked up one other lady from another resort who was from Bavaria but lives in Holland. So that was it a boat just for us.

We sailed to the first little island and got off and had a swim and the water was soooo warm and clear. A few people on the island enjoying the sun and some children playing in the water. You can walk a long way out and it is not deep and so calm.

We then continued round to where the coral is and we snorkelled for ages and saw so many fish, many more than on the Great Barrier Reef. It helps that the water was warmer and much calmer than the reef.

We then went to another island One Foot Island and had a swim and the water here was hot!
The crew cooked a BBQ lunch fresh tuna and sausages with some delicious salads followed by fruit.
We had our passports stamped with the special stamp like a footprint. We also sent some postcards to the girls with the special One Foot stamp. Not sure when they will get to UK!

We walked around the island which was like a Robinson Crusoe Island. I could cry it is all so beautiful and I never thought I would visit such a paradise. What lucky people to live in a place like this.

Then over to another area to feed the big fish and boy were they big. We got in the water and the crew held the fish and these huge trevally came and took it. To be in the water with them was amazing. The biggest one, George, had huge lips like he had had Botox! He also chased the others away.

We then got our snorkelling kit on again and off we went. One of the crew brought a huge clam up for Gisella and I to hold. He left me holding it and it was very heavy, and he went off to get some bread to feed the smaller fish. Standing holding a giant clam and wearing flippers is not to be recommended and I was relieved when he came and took it but he passed me a handful of bread at the same time and so I was suddenly surrounded by hundreds of little black and white stripped fish, zebra fish, and butterfly fish all wanting the bread and let me tell you the give a bit of a nip! It was great fun. Such a shame Jon can't swim but he did have a good day and could see so much from the boat as the water is shallow and clear.

We snorkelled around and saw another huge clam and the big trevally, which must have been at least three foot long and that is no fisher mans tale, were swimming with us.

Back on the boat we headed for the hotel but Timmy spotted one of the three turtles that live in the lagoon and we followed it and they swim very fast.

We then went back to the hotel after one of the best days ever.

We had an hours rest in the sun before going for a shower and change. The tops of my legs are very red at the back with so long spent in the water. I should have used more cream.

The men were still working on the new floor so dinner was outside. The owner, Tommy, keeps apologising but we told him it really is lovely to sit outside to have our meals and we think he should always do it. He is not convinced.

Dinner was very good again. The staff are so friendly and know everyone by first name.

They haven't had any decent rain here for four months so they are getting worried about it. From a selfish point of view we would like it to stay away till we leave on Monday!

Back in our room and I can't get Internet tonight.

I don't think I will ever live through two Fridays and two Saturdays again unless I come back here and that would be such a treat!

Thursday

I had a lot to do today so was up early to get on. I went into the office and opened the blinds as I do every morning and when I looked down into the drive I saw a tiny puppy there crying. I watched it for a minute and it ran down our drive into the car porch and I could hear it crying.

I quickly dressed and went out but it hid under Jon's car. I had no idea where it could have come from and seemed to tiny to have walked far. I got it some food and it ate it but would not let me get hold of it and ran back under the car. I tried with more food but it was too scared.

I went in and rang the SPCA and they said they would come out in 45 minutes.

Jon needed to go to work so needed to get the car out. I tried to push the puppy out with a broom and then told Jon to start the engine to see if it would come out or at least go under my car. I went by the front wheel and I managed to grab it and wrap it in the towel I had.

The poor thing was so scared and just snuggled into me. Jon left and I took it indoors. Totty had a sniff and a bark and then walked away in disgust!

I intended to put it into a box I had but it was so comfy in my arms and it fell asleep so I just sat with it. Poor little thing. I decided to call him Noel. Not sure if he was abandoned or he had walked out of one of the houses up the street but I would not go knocking on their doors as they are somewhat suspicious of white people.

The SPCA arrived, a man and a woman and they thought he was only about six weeks old but he had managed to eat all the food I gave him. They too wondered if it was from up the road but I don't know how you could not miss one of your puppies and not be out in the street looking for it. Sad as it is I think he will stand a better chance of finding a good, loving home from the SPCA than staying with the people who had not cared enough to look for him. The thought that he was actually abandoned on our drive is just too horrible. I was quite sad to see him go, such a cute little chat.

Well by now I was really behind with the things I had to do so got a move on and rushed around like a mad woman.

I went out to buy bread and strawberries and got back and hung out my washing and nearly got blown away but it was so hot.

Viv and Margaret arrived at 12.00 and we had lunch and a good long chat and
Christmas crackers. Viv is now back living here but will go back to look after her grandchildren when her daughter, who is training to be a midwife, has to do her practical course work so it will be nice to have her around again.

Once they left I sorted some packing out but I have got very far yet.

Jon came home and sorted some things out and wrapped my present which is a tiny box or two!! He then went off to his class and I made some dinner for me and watched the TV and did the ironing that I washed today. I haven't been this up to date with ironing for a long time.

Need to go to bed now and tomorrow I have the worst job in the world to do - taking Totty to kennels. She already knows as we have the cases out so her ears and tail are down and she does not look like a happy dog.

I wonder how Noel is tonight - bless him.

WEATHER
Sunny but windy 25 degrees.

Wednesday

I had a long night last night! It took me ages to get to sleep and then I kept waking up and couldn't get back to sleep until 6.45 this morning and then I could have slept all day!

I had to leave to get to Bethlehem at 9.10 so had no time to hang around reading the paper today.

I first went to the furniture shop where we bought our new furniture to collect a replacement strap for the one that was broken. I then went to the post office to buy a couple of cards and got them addressed and sent.

I still had 15 minutes before my appointment so bought a coffee and sat reading the paper till my appointment time.

I had my fingers and toes painted with gel polish and they look very nice and hopefully they will last till we get back from the Cook Islands.

I was finished in plenty of time to meet Margaret at the cinema. I had told her to buy my ticket and leave it at the desk for me and for her to go in and keep me a seat. The theatres in this cinema are all quite small so unless you are on the back row it is uncomfortable to watch the big screen.

It was just as well I had suggested this as when Margaret got there the back row was full and we had to go to the next one down and there are only five rows anyway.

Opera on Ice was brilliant and I highly recommend it. You felt like you were in the audience and the music and skating was wonderful. It was filmed in Verona back in 2012 and just beautiful.

We went home and I asked Margaret if she would like to go to Bethlehem this evening to see the nativity and she said yes so I arranged to pick her up later.

I went home and had lunch and did the bit of ironing I had and then sorted out some things for holiday, soap bag, sun lotions and things like that.

I bought some nail art things last week so this afternoon I stuck some little snowflakes on my manicured nails and they look very nice but Jon hates them! Lol! I can get away with painting them but the decoration is too much for him!

I had bought a small ham so put that in the oven with a mustard and honey glaze and it looked so good when it came out. We can have it for dinner tonight and for my lunch with Viv and Margaret tomorrow and any leftovers I can freeze.

Jon was late home so I had to leave him a note telling him where I was and to have some ham and salad for dinner if I was too late back.

Margaret and I went over to Bethlehem to one of the schools there and although we were there early there was still a long queue. It was extremely well organised and you went round in groups of 70. There were about seven scenes set up around the field all telling the nativity. One was a market area in Jerusalem and they had stalls and sheep and calves and served us soup and bread in little cups and it was all very lively. Another scene was the shepherds in the fields and the angel appears all were very well done and very different to anything I have ever seen. It took us nearly an hour to get around so I was late getting home.

Jon was just having his dinner so I joined him as I was starving.

We watched a bit of TV and that was another busy day over. My New Year resolution is going to be to slow down and not try and fit so many things into my days. I need time to watch the flowers grow I think or just to sit and read my book!


WEATHER
Sunny with some wind 25 degrees

Tuesday

Another busy day today. I started with my keep fit class which was extra hot and sweaty due to the very high humidity. I have never felt like stopping as much as I did today and we were all very relieved when she told us to get our mats and we got down on the floor which was much better.

I stayed for a coffee and we all had a chat. This is the last Tuesday class till January. They have a morning tea after the Friday class and a bring a plate. I am always at the Red Cross on Fridays so I have never been able to go. If I get the dog to kennels early enough I might make it back for the morning tea this year.

I had to go to the supermarket after class and I looked a mess with hair plastered to my head so it was a quick das in and out to get home to shower and change.

I used up the leftover egg whites today and made meringues which I will use for Thursdays lunch and freeze the rest.

Before I left for the class I heard a chainsaw down at the bottom of the garden and when I looked out the neighbour had some men in cutting the wattle tree down that had half fallen in the tornado and was leaning into our garden. When I got back from my class they had also taken down a conifer tree which was not very nice but then they had started to take down the pohutakawa tree which is the NZ Christmas tree and it was just coming into flower. I thought you were not allowed to chop them down as they are protected so we will wait and see but it has gone now which is such a shame. The bottom of our garden is now very open and we can see into the new house that has just been completed down the hill. It doesn't really affect us but it does look very bare and open. I suppose I should let the agent know and they can pass it on to the owners.

I had my lunch and then did a few jobs around the house. We had a short shower of rain but very heavy and big drops. Still none of the thunder that was forecast and that they seem to have had all around us.

I left to meet up with some of the ladies I used to go to aqua with on a Wednesday and we had a cuppa and a chat which was nice. I fogot to take the truffles to Carol so will need to go and see her before I leave. I am so cross with myself for forgetting them as I left the card on the table to remind myself!

I then went to my aqua class and it was lovely to get into the pool which was a lovely temperature. Unfortunately, I forgot to put some cream on and I am a bit rosy this evening.

On the way home I stopped by to see Les and drop her present off and we had a quick chat before I had to get home.

Jon was in when I got back but due to go out to his class so, as I was really hungry, I got on and made my dinner.

I did some ironing to keep on top of it and then Jon came home and I made him a snack and we watched some TV.


WEATHER
Sunny 26 degrees

Monday

I had to get a move on this morning when I got up as I had a lot to do so no time for sitting on FB!.

The computer is all back to normal now. I knew he could sort it for me but he was trying to make me use Outlook and I don't want to! Lol! I like what I know!

Heather rang and we had a chat about utilities and Sky and she will get it sorted now that J & K have moved out.

Jon left for work and I got stuck in to my housework, washing, changing the bed and cleaning. I also made truffles to give to some friends for Christmas.

I took Totty out for  a walk and found my sunglasses with her lead. If she was more willing to go out for a walk I might have found them before I bought a new pair. Never mind. She was good today and walked all the way without me having to drag her.

It was really hot doing the housework but I had to get it done as it is my last chance before we go away as I am busy for the rest of the week.

I stopped for lunch about 2.00 having just washed all the floors so a good time to have a break.

I caught up with Friday's episode of Neighbours but saw it was the last one as they now have a break for Christmas and it was  a real cliffhanger but at least I won't have a week's worth when I get back.

I had made the truffle mix this morning and had to shape them and I have to say making truffles in 26 degrees is not a good idea as they melted all over me.

Jon came home and then I got on with making dinner - tuna fishcakes which were very nice. Lighter food is certainly better for Jon.

We watched some TV and then when it had cooled down I ironed the sheets and made the bed.

We were told we would have thunder last night and again tonight but so far nothing. They have had some very bad thunder storms in Auckland but so far we have been lucky. It is certainly very warm this year compared to previous years.

I bought some books for my ereader today ready for out trip and I am now well stocked up I just need to remember to keep charging the battery or I will be left with nothing to read.

WEATHER
Sunny 26 degrees

Friday, Saturday and Sunday

I lost my profile again on Friday and couldn't log on so Jon has had to set up yet another new account for me. Unfortunately, I hate the way he has set it up and don't know how to get back to my old one. He has set me up with Chrome which I hate and Outlook which I also hate. There is nothing that puts me in a bad mood like messing around with the computer. I knew what I had as my favourites and they have all gone and now I have to do this silly bookmarking and everything is taking twice as long as it needs to. He can't see why I am cross with it as he uses Outlook and always has but I don't and I can see it is going to annoy me till I work out how to get back to the way it was as that is what I like.

Anyway back to the blog which is going to be short as I am really not in the mood.
Sunday
A very lazy day today and I didn't go out for coffee with Jon as I was due to go and do the collection for the hospice at Fraser Cove so I went over there for 12.00.

It was very busy there and we collected a lot of money and it is so nice to see all the baubles on the trees with the messages on for people who have died.

I came home at 2.00 and had lunch and then read my magazines which I have got a bit behind on.

Jon was really tired today and his tummy was sore as I think he probably did too much yesterday so he took it easy this afternoon.

We had pasta with chicken and artichokes for dinner and it was very nice.

Now I am going to see what I can do with this computer!

Saturday
We went into Tauranga and did some shopping and had a coffee.

We got back and Bronwyn came round with her settee which she wants us to store over the holidays as her daughter and grandchildren are coming to stay and she needs more space.

We had lunch and then Jon spent the rest of the afternoon assembling the bbq which went well until he was on the last bit and he could not get one screw to go in and it was so hot on the deck even though we had the sunshade up and he got all hot and bothered. We did finally get it finished and then he sorted the table and made up two of the chairs just in time for our bbq.

We had a nice bbq with pork and haloumi and courgette kebabs. I am cutting down on the meat to see if that helps Bertie.

WEATHER
Very hot and sunny 26 degrees.

Friday

Friday I went to the Red Cross and it was pretty quiet.

I left and met Jon at the photographers to look at our photos. He took lots but there are only a few that we liked. Unfortunately, the ones of Jon look very stiff and false and he is covering his left side in most of them which makes it obvious that he has the bag. He just won't leave it and nobody can see it but he thinks they can. We chose some photos that they will put in a frame but it won't be ready till the New Year.

I came home and had lunch and Jon went back to work.

We had fish and chips for dinner.

WEATHER
Cloudy spells 24 degrees.

Wednesday

The forecast was for sun but it was very cloudy and cold first thing this morning and didn't look like the sun would make an appearance today.

I left to go for my hair appointment and to have my brows dyed and waxed. I had my brows done first and as I had had to change my normal day to a Wednesday it was the girl I used to have and she does a much better job. It is just a shame she does not work the same days as my stylist and I don't want to have to make two trips.

I had my hair done and then I was set to go and meet Ros and Mary. We met in one of the cafes near the hairdresser so I didn't have far to walk. We sat inside as there was a chill wind.

Ros and Mary were already there and we ordered out coffee and a muffin which was a special Christmas muffin and tasted a little like Christmas cake but much lighter and very yummy but I didn't finish it as it was very rich.

We sat and chatted for two hours. Mary only recently started at keep fit and Ros and I get on very well with her and she brought us both a little Christmas gift which was very kind of her. Her husband was in the army and they have travelled a lot and lived in Oz for 15 years and we find we have so much to talk about.

It was soon time for us all to make a move and we left the café and went our separate ways.

I seem to have lost my sunglasses and can't think where. I know I had them on Sunday but cannot remember where I could have left them. As my eyes are very sensitive to the light I had to buy another pair this morning. I usually have a lot of trouble finding ones I like, that fit and look OK. So, I was very surprised to try a pair on this morning and liked them and they fitted - first pair! Job done!

I drove home and there were two messages on the phone for me. One to say the furniture for the deck had arrived and I needed to call to arrange delivery - they are bringing it tomorrow. The second was from Margaret to see how I was so I called her back and we had a chat and arranged to go to the cinema tomorrow.

I then had a couple of Ryvita for my lunch and watched some episodes of Doc Martin while I did my ironing.

Totty went out into the garden and she was gone a long time so I thought I had better go and check to see what she was up to. I got down to the garden to see that the gardener must have been this morning and she had done a lot of cutting back but there is still lots to do even after what I did yesterday.

I found Totty 'under' the house! Just where I thought she couldn't get and where the hedgehog lives. She was looking a little frightened and I thought she probably couldn't find her way out so I called her and managed to get her out under the steps. I hope she is not going to make a habit of this and especially at night!

Jon came home from work and cleaned the bbq as the man is coming to pick it up tomorrow.

I cooked dinner and we had pork but it seems to have had a bad effect on Jon so looks like pork might be off the menu, too. I think I will just have to give him fish all the time as that is the only thing that never upsets him. I don't mind fish but I don't think I want it every night for the rest of my life!!

WEATHER
Overcast 23 degrees.

Tuesday

I am not sure where the days are going at the moment. I seem to have something to do all the time and no time to breath. I think I need to slow down and smell the flowers a little more.

I am not sure where all the forecast sunshine is today. It is warm but not the wall to wall clear skies as forecast.

I left to go to my class and it was so warm in there and she doesn't go easy on us just because it is warm, we still work very hard.

I stayed for a cuppa and a chat and arranged to meet up with Ros and Mary for coffee tomorrow morning after my hair appt.

I bought some gardening sacks from the supermarket on my way home as I needed to get some gardening done. I wish the owners would up the gardeners hours again. She really can't cope with only two hours a month even with me doing some of it. It is a very hard garden to keep.

I got back and went straight out and lost track of time and over two hours later when my back could stand no more I came in. I know I did a lot as I have a big bag of garden waste to get rid of but looking at the garden it is a drop in the ocean. Never mind I can only do what I can do.

I had my lunch when I came in and watched Neighbours until my back could function again. I made some spaghetti sauce for my dinner

I went off to my aqua class and there were only nine of us there. Fortunately, the sun had come out and it was a really pleasant class.

I got home and Jon was in but he was getting ready for his Pilates class which was starting again tonight.

Once he had left I had my dinner and watched TV and did some crochet.

Jon came home and I made his sandwich and we watched TV.

Sitting here I can hear a big argument going on further up the street where the Maori people live. They all drink too much and the result is arguments and then the police come, such a shame.

WEATHER
Cloudy with some sunny spells 23 degrees

Monday

Feeling back to normal this morning and had some breakfast so all OK again. I really would not want to go through the past four days again.

I had an email from an old friend in Spain so thought I would surprise her with a little phone call this morning and it was lovely to chat to her - must be twenty years since we spoke!

The man came to cut the grass this morning and said he would be back Christmas week as we will be away I gave him the 12 pack of beer I had bought for him and he was delighted. He is not my favourite man as we got off on the wrong foot last year when we moved here but he does a good job with the grass. He said he didn't get any presents last year Hmmm I wonder why? He needs to learn a few customer skills I think.

I then went off to have my sight test and got there a few minutes late and apologised. The very smug girl told me she had just left a message on the answerphone saying I had missed my appointment and to re book. She told me I could not be seen today as the next person had already gone in. I said but I am only a few minutes late. She smiled at me and said 'no madam you are 15 minutes late'. It was by then 9.55 and my appointment was for 9.50. She said my appointment was for 9.40. Fortunately, for me, I had taken the card with me that clearly said 9.50 so I fished it out of my bag and shoved it under her nose. She said I will have to speak to the manager. He came out and apologised to me and said they would fit me in. I have been going there for the last five years so he does know me which is more than can be said for the receptionist.

I waited a few minutes and was taken in and seen by a very nice optometrist who was very happy to do a full sight test as she was only supposed to be in to do the machine tests that they do these days and which she said she finds boring. I had my test and as it has been for many years now - no change.

The test took about 45 minutes so not sure how they filled my space so quickly when I was late? The next person must have been very early or someone was telling porkies! Never mind they got it sorted.

I then went for a coffee and watched the children having their photos taken with Father Christmas in the mall.

I did some shopping and then went to Nosh food shop to buy some things and then drove into Tauranga and went to Fraser Cove for some other things I needed so a big round trip.

I got home and hung out the washing and then made some lunch and watched Neighbours before getting on with my housework. By the time Jon came home I had it all done and was on the ironing.

We had crispy duck with pancakes tonight. I had found it in the deli today. It was OK but not as good as the one you get in Waitrose or Tesco but it made a change.

I fell asleep watching TV so missed the programme we were watching!

I finished my book last night so now I have to start a new one and I don't like starting new books so I had better get on with it.


WEATHER
Sunny but windy 24 degrees.

Sunday

It was Totty who had me up last night but fortunately not for long.

Feeling better but still can't eat much but a big improvement.

I rang my sister this morning and we had a chat, such a long time since I spoke to her.

The man came to collect the deck furniture and the man who was with him, the one who owns the trailer, commented on our bbq and Jon said he could have it for $100 if he wanted it (we are buying a new one). He said he needed to go home and check with his wife - bless him - and he would let us know.

We went out for a coffee and to the supermarket, where I found clotted cream, and when we got back we took Totty out for her walk and she did walk with a few shoves up her rear end.

As we got back we met our neighbour and he asked us if we knew anything about an umbrella stand that he found on his front grass, we had walked past and not seen it, the people who bought the furniture had forgotten to put it in the trailer! We put it by our gate and then went in to call them. They said they would collect it later.

Soon after the guy knocked on the door to ask for it and he also said his wife agreed to the purchase of the bbq but they would not have the cash till Wednesday. He offered to leave $20 but we said no it would be fine till Wednesday and off he went.

A bit later on the man who had actually bought the furniture called for the stand but we told him his friend had already collected it. He also asked if his friend wanted the bbq and we said yes. He said he would have bought it if he hadn't. People know when they are getting a good deal and our bbq, although three years old looks very good as Jon looks after it well and keeps it very clean. Now we just need to have our new stuff delivered.

We had lunch and then got the Christmas decorations out and the tree. I found three bags of cards in the cupboard, Christmas cards, birthday cards, anniversary cards and every new house card we have had in our three houses here plus all the new baby thank you cards and photos of which there are many! Pretty much every card and letter I have had over the last five years. It really is silly keeping them as they take up space and won't come back to UK with us so I went through them and kept the photos and thank you cards and some of the special cards and all the rest I threw out. I hated doing it as it is such a lot of money to throw away.

I finally got down to doing the tree and had it finished in an hour. I am not putting too much up as we will be away but I had to have the tree.

We had a cuppa and I took some mince pies from the freezer and we had one with some clotted cream yummy!

I cooked dinner a bit later on and did manage to eat some so obviously on the mend now.

We watched some TV and that was another day over.

WEATHER
Sunny spells with a few showers 24 degrees.

Saturday

Don't you just hate it when you wake up in the early hours and can't get back to sleep. I was awake from 3.00 and last checked the clock at 4.50 so fell asleep after that.

I do feel a bit better today thank goodness but still not in an eating mood but did try some toast.

I sent a text to Les to say that we would not be able to make the bbq and she called to what was wrong. It is a shame as her son and daughter in law and grandson are down from Auckland and she has been wanting me to meet them for ages but something always happens to stop it.

We went across to get some eggs from Welcome Bay and then across to Bethlehem to post some cards and a little present for Jane.

Jon had a coffee and I had a peppermint tea and while sitting in the street Kim, our neighbour from Maungatapu went past and stopped for a chat. They have built a new house and she had said to go over so we really must do so sometime. With three young children and her full time job as a teacher she is always very busy.

We then went to look at some garden furniture as the man who bought ours on Trademe is coming to collect it tomorrow and the other shop has not got back to us so I presume they can't get what we want. We found a lovely set and bought it and it will be delivered next week. It is NZ wood and very nice and will be worth taking back to UK with us unlike the stuff we have just sold.

We then went to the supermarket and I was beginning to feel pretty tired by this time and really couldn't be bothered so a quick trip around to get the few things I needed and then home.

I made lunch and enjoyed some bread and cheese.

I spent the afternoon typing a Christmas letter for people who aren't on email and who I only write to once a year. Fortunately, most people are on email now.

I managed to get the photos sorted for FB with Heather's help the other day and put some more on this evening.

We had a cup of tea and a mince pie and Jon cleaned the furniture ready for the buyer tomorrow.

We had a bbq dinner but I still don't feel like eating hopefully it will be better tomorrow.

Off to bed now as I am really tired. Hopefully, I will sleep all night. It is usually Jon that has this problem now I know how he feels.


WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and windy 24 degrees

Thursday and Friday

Thursday

We woke to heavy rain this morning and it was a horrible grey day.

I had decided to make mince pies to put in the freezer today so got on with the pastry as soon as I was up. I wasn't feeling particularly well but could not say what was wrong but I couldn't eat any breakfast and had a bad tummy with terrible cramps.

I thought it would pass but it didn't and it got steadily worse through the day. I made the pies and then just sat on the sofa and felt sorry for myself!!

I managed a bit of toast for lunch and a cup of green tea.

It was still pouring with rain but I had to go into Tauranga to buy some black paste to cover our two front teeth for the song we were doing for Lions Christmas dinner. Fortunately I managed to park outside the shop so didn't get too wet and was back home in half an hour.

I was by now feeling very bad and debated not going out tonight but as I had the music for our song on my iPad, the props and the Christmas music CD I didn't want to let them down so I got ready to go.

It was still pouring with rain and off I went but I was not in the mood. I did my best through the night but couldn't eat any dinner. The caterer came and asked me why I wasn't eating and I told her I wasn't well so they very kindly put a dinner on a plate for me and a Christmas pudding in a dish for me to bring home.

Not sure how but I got through the evening and we did our song which everyone thought was very funny. They told me to go home after the dinner and leave the cleaning up so I got out of doing the dishes.

It was still raining when I got out, I don't think we have ever had such a prolonged period of rain.

I got home and told Jon I had not been well all day and was just about to go to bed when Heather sent me a FB message to say she could go on Deskhop to sort out the problem I have had uploading photos onto FB.

She fixed it for me to upload a different way and told me it was a FB problem and not something I had done.

I didn't stay on long and went straight to bed. I feel like I have flu as every part of my body aches, especially my back and face. I just hope I will feel better tomorrow.

WEATHER
Very heavy rain 22 degrees

Friday

I had a pretty rough night and was up a couple of times needing water but it had to be cold so I had to go down to the kitchen to get it out of the filter.

I didn't get out of bed this morning as I felt so bad and I can't remember the last time I stayed in bed ill.

Jon brought me the phone and my mobile and asked me if I wanted a drink but I just wanted to sleep so he went off to work.

I tried to call Sharon at the Red Cross but there was no reply. I tried to call Les on her mobile but no reply. I tried Sharon again but no reply. I called Margaret, Sharon's mum, to make sure I had the correct number but no reply. I was just about giving up when the phone rang and it was Sharon from the shop. She said the phone had not rung but I did have the right number. I told her I was not well and would not be in. Unfortunately, Les had not come in again so she was on her own.

Heather called to see how I was and we had a chat.

I spent the rest of the morning sleeping and finally got up and had a shower. I went downstairs and sat on the sofa and fell asleep and the next thing I remember it was nearly 2.00 and I did feel a little better.

And that has been my day - sitting on the sofa. I did manage half a slice of toast and some hot water and honey. My dinner from last night is still sitting in the fridge which is a shame but the thought of it is uggh!

Jon had his fish and chips tonight but I didn't fancy anything. Hopefully, I will feel better tomorrow as we have been invited to a bbq.

WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 24 degrees

Wednesday

What a difference a day makes! WE woke to grey skies and overnight rain with the promise of more to come.

I had my appointment for my hair this morning but as my lady does not work on Wednesday I was booked in with Clayton. I didn't take to him as after only three minutes he told me my scalp had irritation and asked what shampoo I used and then asked me if I spent a long time in the sun - too personal too soon I think. Not sure where he was going with the too much sun was he going to comment on my hair or my face!! I don't think I have more sun than most Kiwis do and probably a lot less than many Europeans.

I wasn't happy with my hair as he swept it all back and put it behind my ears and then too much hair spray. It was by then dry and too late to do anything other than brush it out when I got home. Not sure what it is going to look like for this portrait sitting this evening.

Just as well I had no other plans for this morning as the weather was not nice at all. I went and bought a new dress from Principles which is lovely and then went home. I had a quick lunch and then did the baking for the Lions Youth Camp.

I did some ironing and then read my book while waiting for my nails to dry.

Jon came home at 4.00 and we got ready and went over for our freebie portrait sitting. I don't know why I agreed as I hate sitting for professional photographers, I feel very self conscious. The photographer was very good but I am sure the photos will look very stiff.

We go home and the rain was still falling heavily.

I made dinner which was, much to Jon's delight, fish again.

We watched some TV and then I bought a Dyson online for Heather to collect from Argos. Kirsty and James have taken our old one and I don't want to put Heather off if she wants to do some cleaning! Lol!

It is still raining and there is a heavy rain warning out for the BOP with still more to come tomorrow.


WEATHER
Cloudy with heavy showers 21 degrees

Tuesday

I was awake so much last night it was really annoying so much so that this morning when the alarm went off I could quite happily have stayed in bed.

I had my shower and painted my nails once Jon had left for work. I had my breakfast and got all my things ready for swimming this afternoon as I would not have time to come home after lunch and get back to the pool.

I went to my keep fit class and it was really warm and I found that I ran out of stamina after about 45 minutes and the leg raises are not quite as high as the beginning of the class. I didn't stay for a coffee as I needed to get back.

I had a shower and washed my hair and had just an hour to get ready and made it in time.

I arrived at the golf club, which is very nice, and went in to a very nicely set out room with a glass wall at one end giving lovely views down the greens.

Our lunch was lovely and so cheap for what we got. $24 and we had a beautiful ham carved at the table, chicken cooked with apricots, roasted asparagus, new potatoes and a lovely selection of salads plus bread rolls. Dessert was Pavlova with cream and strawberries and mince pie and ice cream, tea or coffee and it was all delicious. Gaye, one of the ladies in the class, is wonderful at organising things and she had made a bag of truffles for all 45 of us! A really lovely lunch.

I popped round to see my friend Carol who has had an operation on her legs so couldn't make the lunch. We had a cuppa and a chat and then I left to go to my aqua class.

Carla looks bigger than ever poor girl and still has six weeks to go. She has another two weeks of work and then is off till April. I will really miss her classes and not sure who will take over from her.

On my ay home I stopped off to buy some contact lens solution and saw the shopping mall decorated and it looks very nice this year.

I got home and Jon was home. He went out for lunch today so that I didn't need to cook a meal tonight. I made a Spanish omelette, we haven't had one for ages, and it was very good. We sat and ate it on our knees!!!

I fell asleep watching the television and woke up to do my blog and am off for another early night. Not sure why I am so tired these days. I need a holiday!! Lol!

WEATHER
Cloudy with some sun 22 degrees

Monday

I forgot to set my alarm last night and didn't wake up till ten past seven so jumped out of bed and straight into the shower before Jon came up for his shower. I hate doing that!

I had my breakfast and made Jon's lunch and he left for work.

I had an email from Kirsty to say they think they will be moving on Tuesday so we need to get all the utilities sorted out but they sound like they have everything in hand.

I had a FB chat with Heather and she told me James had managed to connect the washing machine so that is one job done. I now need to buy a new vacuum cleaner as I told J&K they could have ours. There is so much choice. I think I will go to the shops here and have a look at a Dyson and hopefully they will be the same models.

I finished my housework that I had started yesterday as Patricia was coming for a rehearsal of out Thursday night song for the Christmas dinner. I am sure it will be a disaster but hopefully a funny one.

Totty has found the place where the hedgehog sleeps which is under the house in a corner which is blocked by a big shrub. Totty can't get under the house as it is all blocked off with trellis but she is trying to dig her way under and I am being kept very fit running down the stairs to get her out which I have to do with the mop or sweeping brush as I can't get through the shrub. However, one good thing came of it I found an outside tap. We have always thought it strange that there was no way to water that part of the garden unless you have a very long hose. Well now I know why, it has only takne us a year to find it.

Once Patricia left I tried to take Totty out for a walk but we only got as far as next door and she would not go so I gave up.

I went into Tauranga looking for something to black out our teethe for this song but I couldn't find anything.

I then went down to the port and bought some fish for our dinner.

Back home I made some lunch and then did some crochet it was too hot to do anything else. I managed to keep Totty in the house and away from the hedgehog for most of the afternoon - I am sure the hedgehog was relieved, too.

Jon came home and was going to go for a walk but it was too hot.

I went into the garden and cut the shrub back so hopefully the next time Totty tries to get the hedgehog I will be able to get her out without using the mop.

We had dinner and watched some TV and now I really am going to have an early night tonight!
WEATHER
Sunny with some early cloud 22 degrees.

First day of summer!

We were forecast to have full sunshine today but they got that wrong, too. It was warm but windy and cloudy. So not as good as first day of summer should be!

Jane called this morning and we had a nice chat and caught up with how the conservatory is coming along and they sound well and happy.

As it was the first Sunday of the month we went out for breakfast over to Papamoa garden centre. The breakfast was good but not very hot so a bit of a disappointment but Jon went in and told them it was cold before we left. If you don't let them know they won't improve.

We then went to buy a cane for one of our tomato plants which is a bit like Jack and the Beanstalk!

We got back home and decided to try and get Totty out for a walk after all, it is her birthday!! She was not too bad and I didn't have to pull her too much.

I spent the afternoon doing some ironing and watching TV. Jon had lunch but I was still full of breakfast so just had fruit.

We had a cup of tea and shared a scone and then we had dinner inn the evening pitta bread with lamb and feta mmmmm! My kind of dinner.

Watched some TV and now it is time for bed.


WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 24 degrees

Saturday

We were up and ready to leave early for us on a Saturday as it was the Santa Parade down at the Mount and they close the roads so we needed to get down there to park.

We did eventually manage to park and luckily very close to the main street.

We found a table on the street in a café and ordered our coffee and a muffin and sat an waited for the parade to start. We had no great expectations as in the past couple of years it has not been very good.

A Swedish couple sat on the table next to us and the lady asked me where I had got my handbag hook from and I told her that my sister had sent it from UK but that they were now available in a shop down the road from where we were sitting. She was very impressed and said she would look for one. I do have lots of people commenting on my 'handbag butler' as they are called and I use it all the time so a big thank you to my sister Joyce.

The parade was much better this year with lots more floats but it still lacks music to give some atmosphere.

After the parade we went off to do a bit of shopping and I took my opened bag of crisps back and got a replacement.

We arrived back home and I made lunch.

Unfortunately, I had, due to a cool weather forecast, taken a leg of lamb that I had in the freezer and thought I would roast it. The weather turned very hot and humid in the afternoon and after making scones and then a roast leg of lamb the kitchen was very hot.

The lamb for dinner was very good but I didn't do all the roast veg with it.

We watched some TV and then I phoned my friend in Spain and we had a lovely chat till my midnight when I was too tired to do my blog so went to bed.



WEATHER
Overcast with sunny spells 26 degrees

Friday

Up bright and early and had breakfast and got ready for the shop, nice to see some sun again.

Work was pretty quiet this morning and I was glad that Jane, one of the new Lions members, turned up to the Red Cross and I took her through the things we do. she has a little girl of four years old and she would like to help when she can to fit around kindy. She seemed to enjoy her morning and found a very nice pair of shorts for a fraction of the price in the boutique so went home very happy. I think I did a good job with her training - one pair of shorts on her first day!!

The rest of the morning was quiet. I did manage to get a conversation out of Jessica about her family. She told me her sister studied law and history at uni and has now finished. I asked her if she was working and she said yes at Subway!!!

I left just after one o'clock and went to the Sallies to find a nightie to wear at our Lions dinner for our skit as the Red Cross didn't have one cheap enough. I found a very nice one which I will keep and wear again when I am over 70!

I got caught in a heavy shower walking to my car so was a bit damp when I got home.

I had lunch and then started on my Christmas cake.

I mixed it and it was a huge mix and far too big to fit in my prepared tin - I think I must have borrowed one from Alison in the past. I had to leave the mix and go to the Warehouse where I spent ten minutes trying to decide square or round - I went for round.

I got home and washed the tin and lined it and finally managed to get the cake into the oven at 5.00. I don't think I have EVER had such a long drawn out way of making my Christmas cake.

Jon came home and we watched the news and then he went out for our fish and chips which were very good and I made my own mushy peas.

We watched TV and I checked on my cake which still had an hour and a half to go but was smelling strong. Just as well I checked as it was done, you just can't trust oven temperatures. I have left it to cool and will splash it with more brandy tomorrow and then wrap it up.

Three weeks tonight we will be in the airport hotel at Auckland AND three weeks tonight we will be in Aitutaki!! Confusing? I think so.


WEATHER
Some sun, some cloud, some rain 25 degrees

Thursday

I got up this morning with the intention of making my Christmas cake - very late for me, I usually make it in September!! It was raining a lot and not a nice day so I got all the ingredients out of the cupboard and then realised that the packet of currants was in fact another packet of raisins!!

I then decided to finish the Christmas cards and calendars and go up to Bethlehem to post them and to the supermarket at the same time. Bethlehem post office will frank the cards with a special stamp saying Bethlehem and I have intended to do this every year and always run out of time so this year, potentially our last in NZ, I thought I had better get on to it.

It was dry but overcast when I left home but by the time I got to Bethlehem it was pouring with rain, really, really heavy rain. I hope these stamps are worth it!!

I found a parking space just outside the PO so didn't get wet. It took a while to sort the cards out and buy the rest of the stamps I needed before posting them in the 'special' post box.

I left the post office and the sun was shinning and the rain completely gone - that is typical of NZ weather.

As it was so nice I decided to go and have a coffee and then I had a look around the shops and found a very nice gift set for a friend who is having a baby and likes all organic stuff so that is one job done.

I then went to the supermarket and did not have much luck as they had run out of currants!!! He said they will be in tomorrow - fat lot of good that is to me!! Neither did they have any marzipan. So hard to find here in NZ.

I had been sent a voucher for $7 from a company who make crisps. The last two multi bags of ten had four packets that were not sealed and the crisps had all come out into the big bag. I had emailed them and they sent me a voucher and explained that they had a problem with the machine that seals - or doesn't seal - and they were looking into it and new packages would soon be in the shops. I bought some more crisps and used the voucher today. However, when I got to the checkout she said I had nothing from this company and had to call the supervisor who, after my explanation allowed me to use it - phew! Long story not finished yet.

I then went on to another supermarket to buy the currants and look for marzipan. I got the currants but not the marzipan and so went on to a shop called the Gourmet Trader as my last shot and luckily they had it but at $13 very expensive but easier than making it myself.

I finally got home at 1.00 in time for lunch. I was going to see my friend Bronwyn at 2.00 and take her the duty free we had brought her back from Japan so had no time to make the cake and ended up putting everything back into the cupboard. I might get it done tomorrow after the Red Cross if not Saturday or Sunday and so it goes on. I think I should have bought one!

I was putting the shopping away and suddenly a pile of crisps were on the kitchen floor - yes, the bag was not sealed so now I will have to take it back to the shop!!! I don't even eat the crisps they are for Jon!

I went over to see Bronwyn and had a cup of tea and a chat before getting back home in time to cook a quick chicken casserole for Jon's dinner. Too hot for casserole really but it was cold and wet this morning when I decided to make it and the brain can't cope with a change so late in the day.

I just had enough time to get ready for Lions. Jon came home just as I was leaving.

Our Lions meeting was very good tonight we had another club visiting so it was very lively. Dinner was really good with some delicious cheesecake for pudding.

Our after dinner speaker was a Canadian man who goes around schools using puppets he makes to help children with road safety and bullying issues. He was very entertaining and we all enjoyed the night.

There are a few issues with a couple of the ladies who are on the same committee as me saying they didn't get the email from me about the Christmas song we are doing for our dinner next week. The top and bottom of it is one of them is annoyed that we are not using the words she suggested but she had no music for it. I downloaded one onto my iPad and it seems to have put her nose out of joint. The chairman on our committee has a lot more patience than I have and tried to calm her down. I had to walk away as the other lady was saying she will see how she feels on the night as to whether she will do it or not!! For goodness sakes they are worse than children.  I think they have missed the point really, it is a little bit of fun and we are not up for an Oscar!

We have caterers in to cook our meal and they sort the kitchen but we have to put all the glasses and coffee cups through the dishwasher which is a quick programme but with so many there tonight there was a lot to do. Unfortunately, it is the same ladies every time that stay to do the dishes and I said we really need to sort it. They tried a rota but that went pear shaped so not sure what the next step is. Most of them walk out straight after the meeting without a glance at the kitchen and it is really annoying. What if we all did that?? We were very late getting out tonight so I think it might be on the agenda for the next business meeting.

WEATHER
A wet start then sunny 23 degrees - humid

Wednesday

I was awake a couple of times through the night with my very itchy mosquito bites! I remembered that I read an article saying that to stop them itching you use a hairdryer on them for a few seconds so, there I was sitting on the floor at 2.00 in the morning with the hairdryer on my legs!! It did actually work and I didn't wake again and the bites did not itch again until I was in the cinema - no hairdryer there though!

I got ready to meet Margaret and Heather rang me to tell me she had passed her second assignment. She sent me a message on FB just as I was going to bed last night so it was nice to chat to her even if it was only a quick call. She is half way now and has her big exam next week - fingers crossed for her.

My Avon lady called round just as I was leaving so we had a quick chat and then I left. I forgot to take a jacket and hoped the cinema would not be too cold.

Margaret and I drove into town and bought our tickets and got a coffee and went into the theatre as there were no seat numbers and in such small theatres you can quickly find yourself on the front row!

The film, One Chance, the story of Paul Potts, was very funny and we really enjoyed it and the AC was not too cold.

We came out and I had to go to the camera shop to get a waterproof camera for our trip. I thought they were disposable but it can be used again with a film!! So I bought one, seems a long time since I had to use films!!

I then went to buy some birthday cards and some calendars to send to UK.

It was then off to the fish shop down on the wharf and I bought some Gem fish. I have never seen it before but the lady said it was nice.

I then went and dropped four boxes of books and magazines off to the Red Cross shop so my car is empty again.

After a quick stop to buy bread we went home and I dropped Margaret off. It was only once I left her and looked at the time, 2.00, that I realised she must be hungry and as she is a diabetic she needs to eat. I hope she was OK.

I got home an had some lunch and then got stuck in to ironing 17 shirts!!! With being away and missing my ironing day as Elaine was here last week the shirts soon mount up.

Jon arrived back from Auckland and had not had a wet trip down so not sure when we are going to get all this rain and thunder.

I cooked the fish and it was very nice and I will go to the wharf in future as the fish is so much better.

We watched some TV and I ordered a washing machine online for Centre Drive as the one they have is old and James has been patching it up so I think it is time for it to go. The new one will be delivered on Saturday - the ONLY Saturday before the end of December very lucky to get that one in. I have paid for the old one to be taken away so same any hassle.

It has finally started to rain so the farmers will be happy and so will our garden. It is very dry and the hosepipe does not reach that far.

WEATHER
Overcast and humid 24 degrees