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

Tuesday

We had a lot of rain overnight but it had stopped by 7.00. It was cloudy with some sun but very humid.

Jon left for work and he will go to Auckland about 4.00 this afternoon and stay overnight.

I finally managed to call my friend Sonia who I haven't spoken to since I was in the UK in May. She has just moved into her new house that her husband built and promises to send me some photos!!

I got ready to go out to the Red Cross coffee morning and lunch. I arrived before Patsy and got chatting to a lady who goes out to disaster areas and it was very interesting to chat to her.

The new CEO was there and gave a talk which was very interesting and it made me realise that the retail side of things that I help in is very important as without us they would not have the money to spend but I also realised what a huge operation it all is. The Red Cross got a million dollars into the Philippians within a couple of days of the disaster and as they have their own network they are able to get things moving very fast and every cent raised is used for projects unlike some other charities. They are also well respected and are known not to take bribes and nor will they give them. It made me feel quite proud to have been a part of it for the last five years.

The man that gave the speech on Sunday also gave the same speech but he was helped out by his wife and a slide show so it was a little more interesting and put together than on Sunday.

We ended with service awards before we had a very nice buffet lunch.

I came straight home and got stuck in to writing my Christmas cards until it was time to go to my aqua class.

The sky looked pretty dark at times but we managed to get the class done without any rain. I drove home just as we had a heavy shower. The weather has not been as bad as forecast and so far no thunder but they are still saying it is on the way. I really hate this humidity though.

Jon rang to say he had arrived safely and was meeting up with one of the people he used to work with for a drink. He said they had no rain in Auckland either so not sure where all this rain is that was on the forecast!

I made some dinner and watched some TV before finishing my Christmas cards. I will just need to get up to Bethlehem to post them to get the special stamp on them.

WEATHER
Overcast and humid 25 degrees

Monday

I was very good this morning and got up with the intention of doing my housework early although it was somewhat cooler first thing.

Heather rang just as I was making Jon's lunch and we had a nice chat to wish her a happy birthday and she told us she had had a good weekend. Heather chatted to Jon and then had to go as Jane and Jason where at Centre Drive and Kirsty was cooking dinner for them all - happy family!!

I got stuck into my housework and after a couple of phone calls interrupting me I had it all done, completely clean house with floors washed throughout by 1.00 - impressive!

Jon had called mid morning to ask if I had seen the email from Kirsty and I had not. It looks like they have sorted things with the house and are going to be moving in to rent it till the issues with the roof are sorted! Wow! That has all happened fast at the end of such a long road. They hope to move in the next week which will leave Heather with one big house all to herself. I am so pleased for them and I hope it all gets sorted properly very soon.

I had another phone call from the lady who organises the book sale as we have a lot of unsold books and magazines which I said the Red Cross would take so I arranged to collect some this afternoon.

I had some lunch and another shower and then went over to Bethlehem to collect the books and magazines.

The shopping centre have put a beautiful Christmas tree up and it is covered with baubles. I must take my camera next time I go up there.

I went to the post office to buy Christmas cards and stamps and although I have said I am not sending many this year it still cost me nearly $200! I usually buy cards and stamps separately but buying them all together made me realise what a waste of money it all is and wish I had not done it as it could have gone to a charity. Too late now!

I then went to see the photographer who we have a sitting with, courtesy of the garage Jon bought his car from. I had to fill in the paperwork and go through the deal and have arranged for the sitting next week.

I passed by the agent on the way home to pay the water rates and then got home just after 5.00 and Jon was already home.

We had a cup of tea and then I brought the washing in and ironed the sheets to make up the bed. Just as well dinner was a freezer meal.

We watched some TV and now after another busy day I am going to bed.

The weather people say this November has been the hottest since 1974 but that is due to change tomorrow and we have a possible three days of heavy showers and some thunder so not sure I will get to my aqua class tomorrow.


WEATHER
Cool start then sunny 26 degrees

Sunday

There seems to be no rhyme or reason as far as Bertie is concerned!! Jon had no reaction whatsoever last night yet last Wednesday it was awful and we just cannot understand why and we probably never will.

We didn't wake till gone 9.00!! I can't remember the last time we slept in like that.

I coked us some poached eggs for breakfast in my new disposable poaching bags! I have a real problem poaching eggs and try so many different methods. The bags were OK but still very messy.

I was due to go to the Red Cross Christmas lunch today and had to be there for 12.00 so only had time to get myself ready and leave. Jon went out for a coffee and to the library while I was out.

I got stuck in traffic as there was a road closure on the flyover. I should have gone through Tauranga as I knew it was happening.

I arrived at the club for lunch and there were about 60 of us. Les arrived and we sat with Fiona and her husband. The meal was good but it is always lacking in atmosphere.

We had a speaker who works out on any emergency he is asked to go to and he spoke about his trips. He, and his wife, are on stress leave at the moment as they managed to escape a kidnapping attack in Afghanistan recently but his wife was shot and the bullet hit her in the head but didn't do too much damage thankfully. They are off to Nairobi for a year at the end of December and that sounds much better than Afghanistan.

The lunch was over by 2.00 and I decided to go home via Tauranga to miss the road works - wrong!! They were also repairing the harbour bridge and one lane was closed so I got stuck in more traffic! Not my day for traffic.

I finally got to Fraser Cove shops as I wanted to buy a few Christmas presents and look for a disposable waterproof camera to take to the Cook Islands but it is proving to be very difficult to find one. I did find a nice dress and swimsuit though! I think I will have to look online for a camera.

When I got home Jon was sitting indoors as it was too hot to sit on the deck.

We spent another pleasant afternoon doing nothing. I like weekends like this.

As I had eaten a big lunch I just had a snack for dinner and Jon had been to Nosh Deli and bought one of the huge fishcakes for his dinner which he cooked so I had an easy night - again!

We watched some TV and now I am off for an early night and hopefully wake up early and catch Heather to wish her a happy birthday and get my housework done before it gets too hot for me to bother and I might just go to the beach for an hour!! I need to buy Christmas cards, too but not too many as I am cutting back this year as it costs too much and I would rather give to a charity.

WEATHER
Sunny 26 degrees

Saturday

We woke to another beautiful morning today. We are having wonderful weather this year, summer has arrived very early as this time last year it was still cold and very windy.

When we lived in Welcome Bay we used to buy eggs from a lady who had a stall on the roadside, they are free range and often double yoke and very good and I have missed them so this morning we remembered to go and buy some. It is not far but as she is only there in the mornings we usually forget.

We then went to the local garden centre for a coffee and I had my first iced coffee of the summer. Probably a million calories but very good. We say outside and it was so hot. We had a look around the shop and found a lovely metal duck which we bought to go with our collection of things we have for the garden whenever we get back to the UK.

We then went to look at some garden furniture and to the supermarket. We want to change our furniture for something better that will be worth taking back to the UK.

By the time we got back to the house we were very hot and although the official temperature was 25 degrees we had 29 on our thermometer in the shade!

It was too hot to sit out so we stayed indoors and had a relaxing afternoon with all the doors open to let in a breeze.

I made a 'speedy lemon tart' for pudding and it was speedy to make but it left me with lots of washing up to do!

Jon cooked a bbq and we sat out on the deck. I really enjoy a steak on the bbq and it is a shame Bertie does not like it as Jon misses out.

We sat outside till midnight and drank far too much wine but it was such a lovely evening. Jon thought he would regret the drinking of rose wine and I did give him a little brandy which he has not had for 18 months or more. Let's wait and see what Bertie thinks of all of that!

I was too tired to type my blog so we just went to bed.

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Friday

I don't often feel tired but I am now feeling tired and think the book sale and our trip to Japan is catching up on me and I could not wait to finish at the Red Cross this morning. Hopefully, I can recharge my batteries this weekend.

The morning at the shop was not busy as far as customers go but I was kept busy sorting out rails and putting stock out. One of the staff brought in some kumquats which I haven't had for ages so took some to bring home with me.

I left the shop and stopped by the post office on my way to send a card and then went to see Wendy who is a lady who, although not a Lion, helps with the books. She was going to sell an Annabel Langbein book on Trademe and I said I would buy it. I found her house and got the book from her and we then walked around her garden which is lovely and she picked a big bag of tangelos for me to take home so I think I got a pretty good deal!

Back home I hung out the washing before sitting down to have my lunch and watch some TV. It is now very hot and too hot to do any ironing though I do have a lot to do - I will have to get up early one morning to do it.

I saw my neighbour walking his puppy while I was hanging out the washing and had a chat to him. They have lived in UK and Dublin for ten years or so and he seems very nice. I just hope their puppy does not get into our garden as I fear Totty will not enjoy the company!

Jon came home and we were watching the news and I heard Totty barking in the garden so went out to see why. She had found a hedgehog and was trying to pick it up. Not sure why the hedgehog was out in the heat but I managed to get Totty and bring her in and block off the stairs so she could not get down to the garden and the hedgehog made its escape.

We had our fish and chips and caught up with Coronation Street and now it is time for bed - at last!

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Wednesday and Thursday

Thursday.

I was up at my normal 7.00 and did all my morning chores and Jon left for work just as Elaine got up.

We had breakfast and then went out to Te Puna Quarry Park and had a walk around and it was so warm.

We then drove down to Pilot Bay and I showed her where the cruise ships come in before we went down to Mt Maunganui and walked around. It was such a beautiful day today, lovely and sunny and she was very envious of our lifestyle and how pretty it is around here.

We then went to one of the cafes along the beach front and had a very relaxing lunch.

We then went to meet Jon for a cup of tea as Elaine had to leave before he would get home.

I felt that was enough for the day as Elaine had to drive to Auckland for her flight tonight and I didn't want to tire her out as the drive on your own is not the best so we went back home and spent a while in out garden and she enjoyed looking at all the different plants and admiring the view.

After a shower and a drink it was time for her to leave, not a long stay but it had been nice to see her and the DVD of her skydive over Fox Glacier - very brave!!

When she left I made a cup of tea and sat reading all the information Jon brought home with our tickets for the Cook Islands trip at Christmas. I am so excited about it and it looks sooooo beautiful.

Jon came home and I made dinner and we watched some TV.

I need to get to bed now as I have Red Cross tomorrow.

So many things coming up no wonder they call this the 'silly season'.

Wednesday

I just seem to have so much on at the moment and no time to do my blog!

Wednesday morning I went over to the Dive and Fishing Club rooms to assist with the six monthly assessment of the children my Lions club have paid to have Hart Walkers.

A doctor and a physio come over from Australia to assess the children and adjust their frames. The children, five in total, come in one very hour and it is a very social occasion as the parents and children all know each other although they are from different areas of the Bay of Plenty. The children, who all have cerebral palsy, are amazing and is it so sad to see how hard they try to make their legs work and are encouraged to try and knock a huge gym ball around the room. It is sad to see how their little legs are marked with the straps when  they are taken out of the walkers and it certainly makes you count your blessings.

Our role was to provide tea, coffee and juice and all the goodies we had made throughout the morning. It was good to catch up with Lions area President and talk to the doctor and physio from Oz. My chocolate brownie biscuits went down particularly well and the physio gave me her email address so that I could send her the recipe!

I got home about one o'clock and just had time to clean the bathrooms and have some lunch before going to pick Margaret up to go to the cinema.

The film we had booked to see was the stage show of the musical Merily We Roll Along and was nearly three hours long. There was only Margaret and I and one man in the theatre!!

I found it very slow to start and nodded off a couple of times but the second half was good though not something I would recommend.

We left to go home and after dropping Margaret off I went home and Elaine, my friend from UK was sitting waiting in her car.

We went in and Jon arrived at the same time.

It was lovely too see her and catch up on her news and she told us all about her trip in the South Island where she had stayed with her daughter who is working in Queenstown.

We had a bbq dinner and just sat chatting till bedtime.


WEATHER
Wednesday Sunny with some cloud 23 degrees
Thursday Sunny 24 degrees

Tuesday

I needed to make some biscuits for a morning tea tomorrow and as the mix needs to chill for a few hours I made it before my keep fit class. How organised am I? they say pride comes before a fall - watch this space!

I went to my class and she gave us a really good workout and we were all very puffed out afterwards but it feels good. I stayed for a coffee and a chat. My friend, Ros, told me that she might need to head off to the UK as her 97 year old mother is not so good, very sad for her but 97 is a good age.

I went to the supermarket to buy some food for Wednesday as a friend from the UK is coming to stay overnight. she has been down in the South Island with her daughter and is coming up here on her way back to Auckland, she was one of the witnesses at out wedding.

I got home and backed the biscuits but the mix did not seem right and the brownie biscuits which I have made so many times were not like they should be. I re read the recipe and realised that I had only put in one egg instead of two!!! That will teach me for thinking I am organised. I had to make another mix and then wait for it to chill.

I had arranged a cinema night with the Lions ladies and invited Margaret and we were going to see The Butler. I decided I would have to give my aqua class a miss as the timing was just too tight and I had to bake more biscuits!!

I spent the afternoon catching up with my blog - now up to date and sorting out photos to put on FB. I also phoned the hospital and a few doctors surgeries to see if they want any of these magazines which we have left at the book rooms.

I had a shower and washed my hair and left to go and pick Margaret up just as Jon got home. I was glad he came home as we had just had a big crash of thunder which had set Totty off.

The film was very good and there were ten of us there. I don't think Obama has done as much as the American Blacks were hoping for.

I got home and had some Ryvita for my dinner and then read my book.

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud and then overcast and thunder 23 degrees

Monday

What a lovely day!

I thought I ought to get on with my housework as it looked like it would be too hot later on.

The man came to repair the dryer and put the new motor in so it is now working fine and will sell well when the time comes.

I spent the rest of the morning cleaning, washing and sweeping up all the seeds that are dropping from the palm trees at the front and are all blown into the car porch.

I stopped for some lunch and then carried on till all the housework was finished.

I have an English friend coming to stay on Wednesday evening till Thursday so wanted to be organised.

Jon came home and did all the outside watering and our courgette plants down the garden are doing well and have little courgettes on already.

I cooked stir fry chicken for dinner but Jon said it was too hot.

I had to type up the words for "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth" and email them to the ladies on our committee for our Christmas dinner. Now we need to learn them and sort out a dance routine to go with them and of course the costume!!

Watched some TV and fell asleep and now it is time for bed!

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Sunday

I enjoyed a little lie in this morning!

I had to wash my hair and get ready for the book rooms later today so had a late breakfast.

We left to go out for a coffee and went and sat in some very hot sunshine and had to move to the shade.

We then went to the Memorial Park where the Gypsy Fair was on and I wanted to have my palm read but they only had Tarot card reading so I had that instead. I can't say she told me anything too shocking or revealing but we will have to wait and see if what she did say happens!!

A quick trip to the supermarket before going back home and I had some fruit and then went over to Bethlehem to the book rooms.

It was not so busy and I spent most of my time tidying the books on the tables and the afternoon went quite slowly.

We closed at 4.00 with still lots of books to sell. I will call the Red Cross to see if they want any of the magazines and also some of the local GP surgeries and the hospital as from experience all their magazines are very old and it would be such a shame to bin the all.

I got home at 4.30 and had a cup of tea and then spent the rest of the afternoon with my feet up and I felt sooooo tired.

We had dinner and then watched some TV and I can honestly say that I| am really looking forward to my bed tonight!

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 25 degrees

Saturday - Book Sale

I was up at 6.30 this morning and got ready and left the house at 7.30 to go to the book rooms for the 8.00 opening.

It was not the usual mad rush this morning as it has been in the past but the morning was busy and steady and I didn't stop till 11.00 when Jon brought me a coffee and I went for a much needed break.

I went back to the rooms and had a stint on sorting books and put them all in order again which is less stressful than working on the cash machines and adding up the books.

I had a break for my lunch later and then got back to it till 4.00 when I did the totals for them on the card machines as they don't know how to work them and I use them at the Red Cross.

I got home at 4.30 and very tired with a bad back from standing all-day.

Jon had been out and bought food for a bbq and he cooked dinner which was very nice and most welcome.

I had an email to say we had made more than $22.000 in just one day which is a really good total.

I spent the evening looking for the soundtrack of All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth for a little show our committee have to put on. I found a good one and then spent the rest of the night listening to Christmas music - still very odd when it is so warm!

I need to get off to bed now and sleep and be ready for more book sales tomorrow afternoon.


WEATHER
Sunny 21 degrees

Friday

Woke to lovely sunshine again today but still cold in the house.

As I had to go to the book rooms after the Red Cross I thought I had better get Totty out for a walk before I left for the shop. It was really warm when I got outside but there was no way she would walk so I took her back. I swear she could win an Oscar for her 'limping' performance! it stops as soon as I say we will go back!!

I left for the shop with the car loaded with things to take to the book room and arrived at the shop. Les was in this morning but was leaving early to go away for the weekend.

The shop was not too busy and the dreaded Jessica took a 40 minute break and she has been told only 10 minutes but it is like talking to the wall. She is under the impression that she works hard and has said she can't so Saturday anymore as she is too tired. This girl is supposed to do this to help her get a real job not sure she ever will.

I left the shop and went to Bethlehem to the book room and it was all go to get things finished for tomorrow and it is looking very good and we have more books than ever this year.

I got home about 4.00 and fed Totty and made a cup of tea, my feet were killing me.

Jon came home and I did a few emails for Lions and then he went out for our fish and chips which was really good tonight.

We watched Coronation Street and then I did more of my blog.

I need an early night as I need to be up and out of the house by 7.30 in the morning as the sale starts at 8.00!!

WEATHER
Sunny 23 degrees

Thursday

I slept really well last night so much so I didn't wake when Jon went down for breakfast only when he came back up for a shower! Just as well he wasn't taking lunch today!

Jon left for work and I had my shower and did my nails which were a state and also, finally plucked my chin!! I forgot to take my tweezers with me to Japan and I think people may have thought I was going in for the Movember challenge!! All smooth now though - the things we have to do as we get older!!

Heather sent me a message on FB to say she was home and very tired.

I spent the morning doing the washing and trying to fit it all on the line and just managed to but did use the dryer for all the socks.

I uploaded all the photos and got them sorted now I just have to get them onto Facebook.

The gardener came at lunchtime and cut all the hedges. She told me she had spoken to the owner and that a man would be coming in to prune the olive tree and the cabbage tree as it is too big a job for her.

I left to go to the book rooms as it is the sale this week so it is all hands on deck. I spent the afternoon sorting the magazines which have spread out a lot more now that we have the second room. We also have hundreds of Mills and Boon which always sell well and hundreds of Readers Digest and encyclopaedias which don't! I cannot imagine the amount of money there is there in magazines, just amazing. My back is killing me now as all the boxes are on the floor so I have been bending over. All the books are on tables so not so bad in the other room.

We stopped for a cuppa and one of the ladies brought in some lovely, hot dates scones for afternoon tea. I will ask her for the recipe as they were so good.

I came home and it was so hot in the house, poor Totty must have been baking but I think she sleeps all the time we are out so probably doesn't notice.

Margaret called this afternoon to find out if it is the book sale this weekend and said she will come over on the bus on Saturday. We also arranged to go to the cinema one day next week.

I watched a bit of Neighbours and then brought the washing in and did some ironing until Jon came home. He was due to go for his Pilates class but felt too tired so came home.

I had my Lions meeting tonight so cooked my dinner early and left Jon to cook his when he was ready.

Our business meeting was not very long tonight as all the ladies are tired and we have books again tomorrow.

Once home I had to check up on the cinema times for a couple of films that the Lions ladies might like to see next week. Once we decide I will email them to let them know.

Now I need to catch up with all the other days of my blog since we have been away!!

WEATHER
Warm and sunny 21 degrees

Tuesday and Wednesday - Flying home

We had breakfast and finished the packing before going out to meet Heather and try and find the Sony Building - third attempt.

We went to the City Air Terminal next door to out hotel to ask about a bus to the airport and found that they leave every 20 minutes!!! Not sure why you can't get them every 20 minutes from the airport as when we arrived we would have had to wait for two hours so not quite sure what the set up is. Anyway, it was going to be easier than getting a taxi to Tokyo Station and then find the platform for the airport express and much cheaper! We booked the three o'clock bus.

I had told her to meet us at Exit B9 at Ginza Station and had my fingers crossed that we would find each other! It worked she arrived just after us.

We went outside and were at the very door of Sony! Not sure how we had missed it. Unfortunately, it was not open till 11.00 and it was only 10.00 so we went to find a coffee bar which was much more difficult than you would think. So many were not yet open and we were all worried we would walk too far and not be able to find the Sony Building again!

We finally found a Starbucks and went in to a very full café! The Japanese are missing a trick as there is a need for coffee bars to be open before 11.00!

We went back to Sony and spent a good hour walking around and looking at all the new items that are not yet out in UK and even less in NZ. The TV screens are huge but wonderful, clear screens. Jon and Heather played on a 3D game and had great fun. I found my new camera in the showroom so I feel like I am very up to date!

Heather and I went to the loo and when we came out Jon was sitting with some headphones on and some of the new TV glasses - watching TV without a screen. He looked so funny and was totally oblivious to us so we started to take photos of him, the assistant thought it was very funny.

We decided not to buy anything and left to look for a lunch place and found an Italian!!! I wasn't very hungry so we just had two small pizza and I had a slice or two.

We went back to the station and Heather had to catch the train one direction and us the other so out goodbyes were said on the platform - unreal feeling!

We got back to out hotel and just had half an hour to change before we had to check out.

After paying our bill we sat in the lobby and then went to get our cases and the young girl on the concierge said she would get a trolley and help us to the bus depot. She walked with us and then waited till she could check our luggage onto the bus and came back with the baggage slips and then left to go back to the hotel. Such kind people and no tipping is the rule - amazing!!!

We boarded our bus and it took - just as stated on the departure board - 55 minutes. The drive to the airport was good and we had a mini tour out of the city. The standard of driving in Japan is very good and everyone is very respectful and I would be surprised if 'road rage' exists here.

We were early and had a wait as the check in was not due to open till two and a half hours before the flight and not the usual three. However, the queue was very long for economy so they did eventually open early. Our queue for Premium was not so bad.

We went through to the departure area and used up the money on my subway pass at one of the shops. You could not add cash to the card so there was still a little left on it. I asked the assistant if she would like to keep it and she was so grateful. We walked away from the shop and she came running after us with a basket of pencil erasers and told me to choose one.

Our flight was called and we boarded and hoped it would be a better plane and flight than the outward one. The hostess at the door said to go to our left and we thought our seats were to the right and looked puzzled. She then explained that they had moved people up the plane and I assume it was because economy was full so a lot of people got an upgrade. I was glad we had booked Premium as we were moved to Business and some of the Business were moved to first. Fine by me I was very happy.

The flight was really good and very smooth. I had my dinner and then settled down on the nearly flat seat and slept for about seven hours and only woke when they turned the lights on! Amazing and I felt wide awake. Even Jon slept for a long time which is very unusual for him.

We had breakfast and we were soon making our decent into Sydney with some lovely views although I was not on the side to see the harbour and the opera house.

We only had an hour to wait at Sydney but still had to go through security even though we had only walked 100mts down a corridor from one plane to the security. I do find the Australian Immigration people rude and not at all pleasant to deal with. Not sure why the Americans have such a bad name as we have never had any bother there but the Aussies are not nice.

As we were flying Emirates we were able to use the lounge so went up for a coffee and sat and waited to be called.

Once again it was the A380 and we had an amazing flight. It was not busy so lots of staff to help. We had another breakfast but I just had fruit and yogurt. the people across the aisle were going to Auckland and then a cruise around NZ. I got chatting to them and he told me he had just retired from Forest Heath District Council and lived near Newmarket - what a small world! Lovely couple and she was so excited.

We arrived safely to a lovely morning and were soon through customs. Bertie had been playing up on the last flight and Jon had to make a dash for the loo as we got off and another once out of customs but all in all he behaved very well for all of the trip.

The drive home was long and boring, we have done it too many times now!

We arrived at the kennels with five minutes to spare to collect Totty who was very happy to see us.

Back home and all was good and the plants looked very good so the watering system was worth it as they weather had been up to 27 degrees while we had been away.

I got the washing on and unpacked and put everything away.

I had a quick trip to the supermarket to get something for dinner and that was me done for the day, very tired but very happy with our trip. I would love to visit Japan again still so much to see there. Maybe!

So ready for my bed!


WEATHER
Warm but cloudy in Tokyo. Warm and sunny in Sydney. Warm and sunny on arrival in Auckland 19 degrees

Monday - Mt Fuji

Up very early, 6.30,  and down for an early breakfast.

We were picked up at 8.10 and then picked up some people from one of the hotels Heather stayed at before going on to bus station to check in and change coach. True Japanese style very orderly but a couple of people were late which didn't go down well.

We had a very smelly English man in front of us. I think he was backpacking but if he smells that bad he is not going to make many friends on his travels.

'Sunny' was our guide and very good although her English was a little difficult to follow at times.

Our first stop, after 90 minutes was a 20 min stop so a quick rush to the loo, a quick look in the souvenir shop, and just managed coffee to take away!

On to Mt Fuji and the bus managed to get to 5th Station, which is about half way up, as the ice had melted on the roads with the help of the gritters. We were very lucky as the clouds disappeared as we got higher and we had lovely sunny clear views but very cold!

We sent a postcard to ourselves and got it stamped with the Mt Fuji special stamp, gift of a lucky bell, photos back to bus. This is all very rushed but a lot to fit in.

On to lunch all very rushed again but have to keep to time.

I didn't think much of lunch but Jon enjoyed it. I had a bread roll in my bag so made do with that.

Back to bus onto lake Ashi to meet boat for cruise and just made it. This lake is in a volcano crater, not that big but the surrounding area is very beautiful.

After a fifteen minute cruise we got off and went though a little parade of shops and finally managed to buy something to take home before going on the cable car ride, 101 people in car! Not sure why 101!

It was a very steep ride to the top and I managed to get near the door and so took some photos without people's heads in them. We had a quick look around at the top but Mt Fuji was by now covered in cloud so we took some photos then off we went back down.

It was then back on the bus to station to catch the Bullet train to Tokyo. A few Bullet trains passed thorough the station while we were waiting and boy do they go fast. The platforms have rails on to stop people being pulled off by the speed of the train.

The ride was good and like sitting on a plane and once again extremely clean but as it was dark you did not get a good idea of how fast we were travelling but we were told it was 360km.

We arrived at exactly the right time and as we got off there was a cleaner, dressed in Barbie pink, waiting to board every carriage and the passengers for the next train all queuing up to board but not pushing.

The guide was with us and was showing two Americans where to get the subway back to their hotel and it just happened to be the same line we wanted so we followed her through the very busy and complicated Tokyo station and managed to get back to the hotel in 25 minutes that is impressive if you know Tokyo?

We went up for drinks in lounge where two loud Norwegian men had had too much to drinkand were telling the whole room their business!

We decided to have dinner in bar which as it turned out was a very good choice.

We went back to our room to pack and then bed. What a long and tiring day!

WEATHER
Sunny and warm start but freezing up the mountain!

Sunday - EARTHQUAKE!!

I woke to see Jon looking out of the window and the whole room was shaking and I knew what was happening! Jon said 'the whole building is shaking' Doh! It was 7.40 and the earthquake was strong and long. I can't believe Jon didn't realise what it was. We heard nothing from the corridor so assumed all was well but I have to say it was very scary and the groaning and grinding of the building was very loud and for such a long time. All calm and nobody did a thing!.

Heather sent me a sent mage on FB to ask if we had felt it. I think the whole of Tokyo felt it!

I washed my hair, had a shower and then breakfast.

We went to see Heather at her new hotel. We went out of wrong exit on underground couldn't find the other line to go on but after a walk around the streets and a chat to a nice Japanese man we were back on track. Met Heather as she was checking in with her colleagues at on 24th floor of the park Hotel which is pretty plush. We took some photos of the views from there.

We then went for coffee and to try and find Sony building for the second timer still missed it!

As we had to be at the bus terminal to go on the city tour we had to go for the train so didn't really have too much time to look around anyway. We checked in for the tour and found our bus and set off.

The tour was a waste of money as all we did was sit on the bus and drive around and didn't get off till be got to a  temple, we could have done the same by train for much cheaper. The Skytree Tower was closed due to strong winds so we got our money back.

We paid for our fortune chart by picking a stick from a pot and then matching the symbol to one of the draws and took out the paper, mine does not look good! Jon's and Heather's were much better. According to the chart I should not move house or build one, go on a journey or have luck in marriage!!! Hmmm!

We arrived at the tower and were told it was due to open so we waited and left the bus trip. The queue was not too long as it had been closed but people soon heard that it would open and so the room filled with hundreds of people and it was so hot. Fortunately, we only waited an hour and the wind dropped so could use the lifts again. Bought tickets and went up, truly amazing. Right to TOP in a very fast lift and then even higher in another lift and we walked up a spiral walkway to the highest point, all very well organised but very scary looking down. We then went down in a lift to a lower level with a glass floor and I managed to stand on it for a photo, I was as terrified as I look in the photo.

Back down to the train, Heather got off first then we carried on to hotel stop, very tired.

Quick wash then up for drinks to the Executive Lounge. Dinner hard for Jon to choose as so much beef and not any chicken.

I, on the other hand, could do with a jog as I am so full!

Off to bed ready for our early start to Mt Fuji.

WEATHER
Sunny spells about 16 degrees

Saturday -Disney

I had the trots through the night due to the change of food I think so took some loperamide, just as well we had some.

We went for breakfast but I didn't eat much.

We waited to hear from Heather that she had changed hotels and once she had contacted us we went to meet her at a train station and continued to Disney all very smooth!

Heather discovered train passes and how they worked so we all bought one, much better than buying loads of tickets and will avoid problems like yesterday when we bought the wrong ones.

Arrived at Disney and were walking down to ticket office and we heard them say they weren't selling anymore tickets till after 5.00 as it was full!!! First weekend of Christmas decorations and shows, Heather was in shock!!We had to go to Disney Sea instead which is next door. Heather was very disappointed to get to the gate and not go in.

It took us a long time to get our bearings around the park and it did not look much like Disney to begin with. The amount of people was amazing, all of Tokyo I think. We managed one ride before lunch!

We decided, as we were going to be there all-day, on big lunch and snack for dinner which was a good choice as we had the Christmas special lunch at an Italian restaurant in the Mediterranean area of the park. We also saw a Japanese wedding as they arrived on a gondola and it was lovely.

Heather was so cold she had to buy a hoodie - so cold compared to yesterday.

After lunch and a look round the shops we managed to get on some rides, saw a big show and by 8.00 Heather and I had managed a big rollercoaster ride and came out just as the fireworks were on so all pretty good after a slow start.

Finally left the park and had sandwich in a café before getting the train back to Tokyo arriving at our hotel at 11.25 a very long and tiring day.

I had an email from the tour company to say Skytree tower is closed tomorrow due to strong winds what a pain.

Heather emailed to say she hadn't been able to find her hotel as she came out of the station at the wrong exit! All she had done was leave her bags there this morning and she still had to check in. She had to get one of the lads down to pay before she could check in, the hotel would not let them do it for her earlier, very silly, just as well they were still awake!. She has to change again tomorrow poor girl. - three hotels!

WEATHER
Overcast 16 degrees

Friday - Yokohama

We both slept really well last night and woke feeling good.

Breakfast was included in our hotel and was really good with so much to choose from.

After breakfast we left the hotel and went to meet Heather - on the subway!! It was really difficult to find out way out of the subway and to her hotel there are so many exits and where she is staying is very new and modern with over the road walkways and you can see where you want to be but getting there was very different! Not to mention all the road works which add to the confusion!! But we finally got there and she was waiting in reception.


I wanted us to go to Yokohama just to see a different city and also my friend, Midori, is from here. So off we set firstly on the subway and then had to change to an over land line. We had problems finding it as there is so much work going on getting ready for the 2020 Olympics I presume and so exits don't always take you to the correct exit.

A man came over to us to ask where we wanted to go. He was elderly and looked like he worked on a building site but spoke good English and was very helpful and eventually, but he had to ask the way, too, he got us to the correct station going out of his way to do so. Such kind and helpful people.


The journey took about half an hour on another lovely clean train. When we arrived we headed for the Landmark Tower and shopping Mall which was not too far. We found a nice place and stopped for a coffee and saw a cooking demonstration in the Japan Gas Shop just across from the café, all very interesting and Heather and I would have loved to join in.

We also saw lots of restaurants all full and people waiting outside and it was only about 12.00!! We saw one that looked really good and it had mini deep fat fryers in the middle of each table. You choose your food, as much as you like, and take it back to your table and cook it. It looked like a lot of fun.


We needed the toilet and so off we went. Heather loves playing with all the gadgets in the loo. You can make them play the flush sound so nobody can hear what you are doing!!

Unfortunately we didn't have a lot of time there as we had to get back for Heather's meeting at 4.00, after all, she was there for work! We looked around and then went up the tower which is 273m high and boasts Japan's fastest elevator at 750 m per minute and made the trip to the 69 floor in just 40 seconds!

The views from the top were amazing and you could look from the windows on all sides.
Unfortunately, you could only just about make out Mt Fuji due to the heat haze.

We came back down and had a quick look around the mall before heading to Hard Rock Café for lunch which was very good. We have a thing about Hard Rock Café and want to visit as many as we can. We, of course, bought the magnet!

The mall, and most of Tokyo, is decorated for Christmas and they really go to town there was the most beautiful Disney Christmas tree there all very special as Disney has been open for 30 years in Tokyo.

We then went back to Tokyo to see the Shimbuya crossing. This crossing has up to 2000 people crossing at one time in every direction and is on the list of things to do in Tokyo.

We got a bit lost in the station and a kind man came over to ask if we wanted help. He spoke good English having worked in London many years ago. He directed us to the correct exit but when we tried to get out our tickets were rejected. He took us to the 'adjust fare' machine and then took out an envelope of tickets and topped up ours for us and would not take any money! It was only about five pounds but I really cannot see many people anywhere in the world doing that for three tourists.

He then led us to the crossing and took us into a department store, up to the first floor and a window where we had a good view, so kind. I thanked him and then he asked me 'Why you want to see this'? so I told him and he thought it was very funny! He then left us and walked all the way back to the station to continue his journey waving up to us from the street.

The crossing, despite what our friend thought, was impressive and so busy. We watched for a while and then went down and crossed over and then waited before crossing back, great fun. There was even someone filming it!!

We found our way back to Heather's hotel and we collected the things she had brought over for us and we left as she needed to get ready to meet up with her colleagues and we caught the train, no problems, back to our hotel.

After a little rest we had a shower and got ready to go for cocktails at the Executive Lounge on 20th floor which was all in our package. They had all the drinks set out, whatever you liked and help yourself. They also had some very nice finger food out so we sat and enjoyed some pink champagne and nibbles and looked out across the city towards the old Tokyo Tower which was all lit up.

We went down to the hotel restaurant for dinner. I chose a tasting plate of all Japanese dishes and it was very good and called Princess Plate. Jon had fish and played safe.

Bake to room and very, very tired.

Heather needed to change hotels on Saturday and it took some time to sort out when she would do it and where we should meet her to go to Disney but after numerous FB messages we got it sorted, just hope it works!!


WEATHER
Sunny 20 degrees

Wed/Thur - The Journey

Our first thing was to take Totty over to the kennels a job I never get used to. She wouldn't move and Bill had to pick her up and carry her to the kennels - I feel so bad!!

We then went to Greerton café and had a coffee all very relaxing really.

I got back and finished the packing and we had lots of space in our cases but the small case with the stocking fillers in was very full. I made a list of all the things in it and I will need to tell Heather not to look at it or she will spoil her surprise!
I went to see our neighbour but he was out so had to leave him a note. He did know we were going and said he would water the plants but now that Jon has set up the watering system he won't need to but he will collect the post and keep an eye on the house.

We had a good trip to Auckland and didn't have any rain.
After parking the car just at the side of the airport, very convenient, we checked in before going up to the Emirates lounge where we had a good lunch and I was more than ready for it.
We had booked to fly Premium Economy through Qantas but as they code share with Emirates and they don't have PE you get to fly Business and as it was an A380 it was certainly very plush. There is a proper lounge with a bar and you can go and sit there and have a drink feels very strange! There is also a window in loo but only the clouds to see you!
I watched the film Goddess which was very funny and the food was not bad either.
We arrive in Sydney and didn't have long to wait but we couldn't use the lounge so just sat near the gate we were leaving from.
The Qantas PE is not as good as air NZ, in fact it was probably one of the worst flights I have had. The cabin was not full, only about 12 of us yet they ran out of breakfast! The seat was covered in crumbs and a chocolate wrapper on it. The staff were not at all friendly

I watched What Masie Knows and it was a very good film. I slept well but woke with a terrible back ache due to the angle of the seat. And then breakfast was not good. You are not allowed to land before 6.00 a.m. so we had to circle for about 15 minutes as we had arrived early. Good landing. Not looking forward to the return flight!
THURSDAY
We cleared customs with no problems and everyone was very respectful at Immigration. We knew we had to go and buy a train ticket but the desk was closed so we were sent downstairs where there was a big queue and lots of machines but we couldn't understand them so we waited and hoped we would get our ticket by the time the train left and we did.

We managed to drag our cases down the escalators to the platform. The train tickets were reserved so you stand by the number of the carriage you have been allocated and it was all very orderly.
The train arrived bang on time - well, it is Japan and they do! It was incredibly clean but it did take 90 minutes and we had been told an hour so not sure why.
We arrived at Tokyo station and could not find our way out!! There were so many levels and exits and we seemed to be going round in circles. There are shops and cafes and it didn't help that it was coming to the end of rush hour and still busy!! I started to think we would spend the whole week there and never meet up with Heather!!
Finally we found an information desk and she told us where to get a taxi which was quite easy when you know how.

Now Heather told us that she was staying in the area of Shiodome and for various reasons she was changing hotels three times - too long to go into!! She had told Jon to book the Royal Park Hotel which was near to hers and he did. When we got into the taxi I told the driver and he took us to the hotel. However, when we got there Jon said it was not the right one. He had booked another Royal Park Hotel so we stayed in the taxi and went there - big taxi bill!!

Fortunately, it was not too far away - a few stops and a change on the subway! I had sorted all our trips out as from Shiodome so was completely thrown as I had no idea where I was in the city. My iPad was running out of battery, we had a message from Heather to say her phone was dying so it was all a bit of a panic till we got into the room to charge out iPads. Finally we contacted her and told her where we were and arranged to meet her and went in a taxi just to be safe.

We were very hungry so had a room service snack and a quick shower before setting off to meet her.

I had been worried as to how Heather would manage on her own with the train and taxi but she arrived easier than us and her train only took an hour!! It was a pity we were at the wrong hotel as the one I though we would be in was just across the road and would have made life easier. We did ask if we could change but as it was booked through Expedia and paid for before we left here they said no. Our hotel was lovely and we had no complaints other than it was in the wrong place.

Once we met Heather, she had not been able to check in till later, we went to some Japanese gardens near the hotel. They were lovely but they only have trees and shrubs as the old Japanese did not like flowers as they die and trees are there all the time. However, that has changed now and they do plant lots of flowers just not in this garden!

We walked miles and miles before we found a spot for lunch.

We walked back to Heather's hotel and she went to check in and we tried to find station! I think the Japanese could spend the whole day underground as all the stations, hotels and shops are joined by walkways and underground passes and there are sooooo many exits and when you don't know where you are going it is not easy, we were also very tired so gave up, managed to find our way out and got a taxi back.

When we got back to our hotel we went downstairs to the tube station and looked at the map and sorted out the stations and how much we had to pay for trips. We had booked to go to the Ninja restaurant so we arranged to meet Heather on one of the tube stations later on. By this time my back was killing me and I just wanted to lie down and sleep!!

I felt better after a shower and got changed and off we went. The tube was very busy but by some miracle we got off the train at the right station and Heather was just coming onto the platform so we just had to wait for the next train - all of three minutes.

When it arrived it was soooo packed and when you think no more can fit in they have people pushing them in from behind! We couldn't have fallen while standing up as it was too full. It is very strange as they are normally so patient and polite but rush hour is crazy! And they are all checking their phones though you don't make calls on them that is not the done thing at all!!

We found the restaurant not far from the station and went in. You have to book and you get a two hour slot. You are given a ninja for the duration and all in all it was an amazing evening with lovely food and very different to anything I have every eaten. We had three of the set menus, two of one and one of another. One of the courses was a huge sea snail which was delicious. I don't know most of what we ate but our ninja made us a very good pork and greens soup at the table. All she used to cook it was a very hot stone into the pot and she snipped the greens with scissors making ninja chopping noises all the time, great fun. Before we left the Master Ninja came to our table and did some magic tricks and he was amazing. I had picked a card and written my initials on it and he had produced it from the pack at various stages then just as he had finished he said he had something and pulled out his wallet and a sealed envelope and tore it open and told me to take the card out and it was the one I had written on! A very good night and although we were all very tired we were so glad we had booked it.

We got the train back and Heather got off at her station and we carried on. So proud of Heather the way she has coped with this travelling. She is a very different girl to the one we left crying at Derby University a few years ago.

Got back to our hotel and feel much better about tackling the subway tomorrow but we fell into bed and slept.
WEATHER
NZ Cloudy with sunny spells 21 degrees Tokyo when we arrived 16 and wet.

Tuesday

I had a lot to do today so was up and onto it ASAP. I was glad to see Totty was feeling better this morning and more like her old self.

I had the washing out on the line before I left for my class. I left early as I had no petrol and I think I only got to the petrol station on the last drop!!

We had a good class this morning and it was very full. I stayed for a coffee and a chat and then went to the supermarket  for a few last minute things.

Then on to the post office to post some cards before going home.

I took Totty out for a walk but she really didn't want to walk and we only got to the bottom of the road and I gave up.

I spent the rest of the morning making lolly cake to take with me to Japan for Heather to take back to UK. Lovely cake but messy to make!!

I then had my lunch very quickly and watched Neighbours. I am a bit behind and will have a lot to catch up on if I don't get them watched.

I then got stuck into packing which didn't really take long once I put my mind to it.

I decided I had too much to do so would miss my aqua class today. I went to collect my jeans that I had put in to the dressmaker to shorten.

Back home again and Jon came in and got his stuff out and I had to fold all the shirts - one job I really hate doing. He left for his class and I put everything into the cases and it was done.

I then booked the two trips we want to do in Japan and the vouchers came through confirming them so we are doing a city tour on Sunday with Heather and then Jon and I are going to Mt Fuji on Monday and back on the bullet train. Jon has reserved a table at the Ninja Restaurant which looks really good fun and we do that on the Thursday. I think we are going to be really tired after this trip!

Jon came home and I cooked him an omelette and we watched some TV.

All ready and sorted now so just need to take Totty to kennels in the morning and then we will drive to the airport about 1.30 for our 6.40 flight to Sydney.

Not sure how much blogging I will get done over the next week, it depends on how much Wi-Fi we get but I will do my best.

So excited!!


WEATHER
Rain first thing then sunny spells 21 degrees

Monday

Felt a bit fragile this morning due to sitting outside and enjoying one glass too many last night! I will stick to the low alcohol in future!

I had to take Totty to the vet this morning for her booster vaccinations and a general health check. I wish I could maintain my weight like she does!

I got back and Heather called and we had a chat about packing for Japan and her course which she is nearly finished but she was saying how hard it has been. I hope she does well and passes the exam in December although she won't get the results till February!!

I did my housework and washing this morning between sending some emails and doing my nails. I haven't sorted out my packing yet but I do that better under pressure!

Jon came home and I made the dinner and then we watched some TV we need to clear some things from the box or we will run out of space when we are away. We have so much recorded but as we don't watch much TV it just sits there.

Totty has not been very well tonight, she looks unhappy and is very quiet. I hope it is just the reaction to the injections this morning and hopefully she will be better tomorrow. An early night for us both I think!

WEATHER
Cold and grey start then sunny 21 degrees

Sunday

Had a bit of a lie in this morning but as we were going out for breakfast I got up and showered. Shame Bertie didn't  have the same idea and so breakfast was very late.

We went to a ne place in Te Puna. The venue was lovely and presentation good but the taste was not so good. That said the coffee was delicious and the muffins looked really good so would go again for coffee and muffin.

We then went to Bethlehem and as it was the first Sunday of the month they had the market on. We found a lovely stone with a kiwi mosaic on and then a lovely mirror picture with a pukeko and we were so happy with what we bought. We just need to find the garden to put them in now!

We went home an took Totty out for her walk - reluctantly on her part.

Jon spent the rest of the afternoon finishing off the new watering system off and I did my iroining.

We had a lovely bbq for dinner. The wind has died down and despite the fireworks going off everywhere we had a lovely dinner.

I need to go to bed now as I have a busy few days before we go to Japan!!

WEATHER
Sunny and warm 22 degrees

Saturday

I had a nice lie in till 8.00 this morning then got up for my shower and breakfast.

We were thinking about where to go for coffee when Jane rang to have a chat which was nice as we needed to discuss what to get for her birthday as she has not really said so that is now sorted.

We just went to the local garden centre for coffee as I was due down at Fraser Cove to help with a collection for the blind.

It was lovely to sit in the sun, the date scone was lovely and the coffee very good, the new owners are doing a good job.

We went back home and I changed into my Lions top which I really don't like, and went down to do my hour's stint with the bucket and stickers but at least we were sitting at a table in the entrance of the shop so not windy and the hour passed quickly. Amazing watching the people coming out with the big boxes of fireworks - really big! They only sell them for a few days here.

Once finished I popped into the supermarket to buy some coffee and Ovaltine for Jon. I treated myself to a coffee plunger jug as I am trying not to go out for coffee during the week but I do enjoy a decent cup of it at home.

I got back and Jon had been out and bought a watering kit for out plants. Our neighbour says he is happy to water them when we are away but I think he is afraid to use too much water and they all looked a sorry mess last year so now he can just keep his eye on it and make sure it stays on the tap and the timer will come on and water the plants twice a day, shame we can't do the same with the dog!

I made our lunch and then just pottered about doing things to get ready for Japan. I packed a small case full of the stocking fillers for Heather to take back with her. It is now full so I must stop buying!

We were booked to go out for dinner at 7.00 to use a Grab One voucher at an Italian restaurant.

We had a choice for starter main and dessert and it was all extremely good and we both enjoyed what we chose. I had a delicious steak with a blue cheese sauce. Really nice for me as Jon cannot eat steak now so a real treat.

We got home just as all the fireworks started to go off but surprisingly the dog didn't hear them this year so I guess she is more deaf than I thought, not a bad thing on bonfire night.

We watched Coronation Street and then we both read our books and it was bedtime before we knew it.

First Sunday of the month tomorrow so breakfast out!!

WEATHER
Sunny but windy 21 degrees - good fireworks night!

Friday

Up and ready for work this morning with plenty of time to spare and I should have walked the dog but it was a bit windy but nothing like it was during the night - again!

I left for the shop and arrived to find Fiona decorating the window for the retail course she is doing and it looked very pretty as she drew huge flowers on the windows and it looked like Easter!!

We had another quiet morning with Jessica being her usual, frustrating self. I decided it was no good moaning about her and decided to give her a job to do with clear instructions! I asked her to tidy the rail of jeans and make sure the buttons and zips were done up and that they all faced the same way and were clipped to the hangers. Most people would just do this but I realise she needs to be told exactly what she has to do and then she does it and made a good job of it - progress? No, she then went back to looking at labels!!!

The manager had a word with her and told her she was only allowed one break during the morning - she has been having at least two x twenty minute breaks and one before she leaves at 12.00 and she only starts at 9.00!! She also told her she must say when she is leaving the shop floor - she usually just disappears! Hopefully next week we will see an improvement.

Apart from Jessica the morning was quiet and we didn't sell much at all.

I left just after one to go and meet my friend Carol for lunch. Coincidentally, Jon had arranged to meet someone at the same place but earlier. He was just leaving as I arrived.

We had a nice lunch and chatted non stop for about two hours until the place was closing!!

We then went next-door and had a look in the gift shop there.

I then had to leave as I needed to take some jeans to the dressmaker to have them shortened as I want them for Japan next week.

I went to buy Jon some beer and finally got home at 4.30 - poor Totty!

Jon came home and we watched the news and he updated me on his day and then it was time for him to go out for the fish and chips which was much better tonight.

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 21 degrees