Friday

Up early this morning to get organised before going to the Red Cross. I had my breakfast and then prepared a sandwich for Jon's lunch as I was going to the hairdressers and would not be home till late.

Jon had slept well but had woken around 3.00 and did not know where he was - bless him!

I went to the shop and all was restored to normal as Sharon was back so a happy shop again. It wasn't particularly busy so we just tidied the rails and put out some children's clothes. I am getting quite a selection of things for Baby Meddows now. All different sizes so will go on for a few years. I also found the most beautiful dress for me. It is made by an Australian chain called Jaquie and is lovely and fits so well and all for $9 you just can't go wrong.

I left the shop at 1.00 and went into Tauranga to the salon and had my eyebrows shaped and dyed first and then had my hair done. It is getting quite long now and people say they really like it. I like it but it does take more time to wash and dry so not sure how long I will be letting it grow.

I then went down to the port to get some fish before going home.

Jon was fine and had not done anything silly while I was out. He is feeling very weak as is to be expected and he has lost a stone in weight. He says you can't see it but he is now back in his normal shorts and he has very skinny legs! I just have to keep feeding him good food and he needs to rest when he is tired and hopefully he will soon feel better.

I went out for the fish and chips tonight but phoned the order through so I didn't have to wait. We had snapper and it was good and Totty enjoyed hers, too.

We caught up with Coronation Street which is only on once a week but for two hours which is a bit long but by the time we whizz through the commercial breaks it is not too long.

We are both very tired tonight so I think it is early to bed for us.

WEATHER
Sunny 26 degrees, windy in the evening.

Thursday

I was up early this morning to do some housework and I needed to leave to go and collect the computer so needed to get going. I had a text from Jon to say he could come home but not time so needed to take him a shirt in.

I did a bit of gardening out on the decks as a lot of flowers are now falling from the fuchsia. When the weather continues to be warm and sunny like summer you tend to forget it is coming into autumn and the plants start to die back, not my favorite season.

Got all the rubbish sorted and the bin out and left the house to get the computer. I paid the bill and they kindly put it in the car for me.

I then went up to the hospital and managed to park first time round! I got the coffee and muffin on my way up I had a lot to carry as I took a holdall in to put in some of Jon's things, he seems to have accumulated a lot of stuff over the last eight days.

He was looking pale and lying on the bed and he told me they had just been to take the drain that was put in under CT scan out and it would not come out and was very painful so he had to have pain relief for them to remove it. It is called a pig tail and is curled but should come out straight when pullued bit it was stuck! He soon recovered and we enjoyed our coffee before I left to go to the supermarket and then home. A friend called just as I got in and we had  chat and then I had a text to say Jon had all the paperwork so once I had unpacked and put everything away I went back to the hospital and parked in one of the five minute spots near the door.

When I got up to the ward he was sitting waiting and off we went. We had to stop at the hospital pharmacy to get his antibiotics but she only gave us a weeks worth so we assumed he would get another prescription when he goes to see Mark next week as he has to have them for at least four weeks. He also needs to be seen by the consultant every week for the next four weeks. This means we will not be able to leave on 26 as his ABs don't finish till 27 March if then!

He needs to measure how much is coming out of the drain and so we went to buy a small jug to measure it in.

Finally, home! I made lunch and then I looked at the discharge summary and it clearly says the bowel could be seen to be perforated when they did the CT scan so I really don't understand why they didn't operate sooner. I checked all the appointment cards and his first one is not till next Friday and all the others are on the following Thursdays. This means he will be a day and a half short of ABs so I rang the ward. A nurse rang me back after speaking to the doctor and said that Mark would give him another script when he sees him. I said he would run out and she said well the doctor said just wait till he sees the consultant. I told her I was not happy with that as he was on a course and you can't just miss a day and a half. She gave a big sigh down the phone and said she would phone the doctor - again! I finally had another call from a different nurse saying they would fax a new script over to my GP pharmacy. For trained nurses they appear to be pretty slack.

I spent the rest of the afternoon sorting out the computer and setting things up again. I looked for the photos and couldn't find a lot of them so rang the shop to ask where they would be. It appears that he didn't find the majority of the photos or if he did he didn't back them up so they are all gone. Most of them I have stored on Picasa but I haven't had the time to upload all the ones from the Cook Islands. I was very upset.

I checked two memory cards and as luck would have it I hadn't formated them so found all the photos from Cook Islands - phew!

I then prepared dinner for Jon as I was going out to my last Lions meeting - it probably won't be my last now though. Jon didn't mind me going but I did feel bad.

I got ready to go and left Jon eating his dinner.

It was a short meeting and we were finished by 8.20 so I could come home. They gave me a certificate and a very nice photo frame and card. One of the ladies is having a lunch for me when Jon is feeling better I am to giver her a call.

I got back and Jon was fine and watching TV. He has gone to bed now so I hope he sleeps well and we have no more issues but we are not quite out of the woods yet.


WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Wednesday

I haven't had time to collect the computer so short blog.

We were so happy to get Heather's news this morning that she has passed her exam. It has been a tough year for her and much harder than she thought it would be but I am glad it has paid off.

I went to see Jon with coffee and muffin and he is still doing well but feeling very low at having to stay in hospital.

I got back home and prepared his lunch and sandwich for his tea in between hanging out the washing and phoning for more supplies from the stoma nurse and arranging to collect the computer.

I was looking forward to my couple of hours at the cinema with Margaret.

I arrived at the hospital with Jon's lunch just as they were wanting to connect him up for his antibiotics! He was able to eat his lunch but I had to cut it up.

I did intend to go and collect the computer and take it home before picking Margaret up for the cinema but due to waiting for the AB I was running late so decided to leave the computer till tomorrow, I just can't fit everything in.

I left Jon and went for Margaret and we went to the cinema and saw The Book Theif which we really enjoyed but it was very sad.

I dropped Margaret off and did not have time to go home so went back to the hospital.

The doctor had spoken to Mark and if all the blood tests are good and the drain and stoma are all working they might allow him home tomorrow on oral antibiotics so fingers crossed. I am not sure how much longer he can cope in the hospital as he is feeling very low now.

I came home and watered the plants and did a few jobs before making my dinner and then watched TV.

Must be nearly bedtime!

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Tuesday

Short blog again as I took the laptop in to Jon. He has a notebook which he was finding difficult to work on so I thought his need was greater than mine. He can also watch DVDs on it so it will help with his boredom! Boredom is good!

I went to my keep fit class then up to the hospital and the usual car park search which was only about ten minutes today! I bought the coffee and went up to the ward. Jon is still doing well but is now very bored.

I didn't stay long as it was late and I needed to get some things from the supermarket. One of the men he knows from the port arrived to visit him just as I was leaving so that cheered him up. By the time I got home I just had time to prepare his lunch and dinner then back to the hospital.

I stayed till just after two then went home for my lunch and a bit of a sit down. I had arranged to meet a lady, who wanted to buy one of our heaters and a fan, in the shopping centre on my way to my aqua aerobics class so didn't have much time at home. Two more things off the list.

I then went to my class which was really good and in such lovely weather. I like this time of year as the weather is more settled and warm.

From my class I went straight to the hospital and there he was still sitting there. I think he will go mad by the weekend but at least he now has some DVDs to watch. I left at nearly seven as poor Totty needed to be fed and had been on her own much of the day.

I got in, watered the plants and made my dinner and had a glass of wine and watched some TV. The days are just drifting by.

Bedtime now?

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Monday

I slept so well last night and so did Totty not once did we wake up till my neighbour woke us at 6.30 making so much noise loading his van!

I did a few bits around the house this morning and then went into Tauranga to the library to get some books for Jon. I then went and got two coffees and a muffin from one of our favourite cafes and told her to make them really hot as I had to get them to the hospital.

I drove up to the hospital, which isn't that far, and when I arrived there were lots of cars looking for spaces in the car park, mornings are always difficult due to the clinics. I drove around and in and out of the car park and into side streets before finally following two ladies through the car park like a 'kerb crawler' to their car. It took me over half an hour. Just as well I had asked for hot coffee.

I went to the ward and Jon was sitting in a chair with hospital PJ's on! I asked him why and he said it was his suit as he was doing some work on his laptop today! They made him look more like a convict!

He was very bright and we chatted over our coffee and very nice muffin for about an hour. I then left to go home and make his lunch.

I am pretty organised now and I make his lunch and sandwich for his tea and I have the same in a sandwich but for my lunch and keep some of what he has for his lunch for my dinner so I am now only cooking once a day and it is working fine.

I got back to the hospital just after 1.00 but he had the IV antibiotics going in so he had to wait till they had finished and then he tucked in and really enjoyed his lunch again. I know it is an effort but it is so good to see him enjoying food again.

We chatted for a while and I left.

I went to the wool shop as I wanted to buy some baby blue wool to make something for Jane. In the shop I saw some lovely pom pom wool with a pattern for a baby blanket. I asked one of the staff if they had used it but she hadn't but I thought I would give it a go and bought it - watch this space!

I finally got home at 3.00 and I was very hungry so I was glad the sandwich was made already.

My friend Carol called round this afternoon and brought some lovely sunflowers for me and she stayed for a cuppa and a chat which was lovely.

When she left two more friends phoned and wanted to know how Jon was - I am getting sick of listening to my own voice!

I left to go back to the hospital, so glad it is only about 3km away. In fact, I can see it from our bedroom window.

Jon was sitting in bed and had had a little sleep but had managed to do some work. He told me he had a call from a friend and he told him that he was the talk of his old office on Friday as rumour was going around that his cancer was back and he was in a bad way! Not sure how that got back there not to mention the fact that they are wrong. Chinese whispers no doubt!

Jon has been with one other man who was admitted yesterday and is quiet. This afternoon when I got there a really big Maori boy was in the bed next to him, he is really, really big! He had a visit from a friend and they were talking about the friend's court case where he is accused of trying to strangle a guy and I heard all about what his lawyer said. I am glad he is only a visitor!

I told Jon to make sure he puts his phone in a safe place when he leaves his bed. Not being mean but my consultant had his phone stolen from his office in outpatients so you can't be too careful.

It was gone seven and I decided to leave and Jon walked me to the lift. Coming out of the lift were three young people carrying a big parcel of fish and chips and Jon said they must be for the boy in the next bed! When I got home he sent me a text to say they were! I don't think he minded eating his egg sandwiches after that!

I came home and made my dinner and watched some TV.

There was a lovely sunset tonight and I also took a photo of the Queen Elizabeth which is in port today. She was sailing at 8.45 so it will be too dark for me to see that far.

I started trying to cast on with this pom pom wool and it is very difficult even after watching a You Tube video. I think I will try again tomorrow in daylight and when I am not tired.

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Sunday

Well, what a difference a day makes! I had a text late last night to say Jon was feeling much better and was sitting up in bed reading his book! I was able to go to bed and have a good sleep.

I was woken by another text from Jon at 7.40 saying could I bring him a coffee and a muffin and also a coffee for Jenny, the nurse! I didn't expect that!

I did some housework as it was a mess with dog hairs and dead insects and it was annoying me. I managed to get the washing out and all before 10.00.

I stopped at a café and got the coffee and a muffin and went in to the hospital.

Jon looked so much better and more like himself. He enjoyed his coffee and muffin and I gave the coffee to Jenny who was very pleased and gave me a hug and said she was glad to see Jon looking so much better.

I stayed for an hour and then went home and started preparing his lunch. I have decided to cook his main meal at lunchtime and take him a sandwich in the cooler bag for his tea. This means one set of preparing and then I don't have to rush up there in time for tea and he can eat it when he wants. This is subject to change!!

I took his lunch up and he was sitting in a chair reading and looked quite relaxed. I think he has got his head round the fact that he is not going anywhere till he is properly better.

He ate all his lunch and enjoyed it and we sat chatting. When I left for my lunch he walked me to the lift.

I got home and had my lunch and spent a very relaxing time watching TV and looking for baby knitting patterns as I thought I ought to get knitting something for our grandson!

I rang my friend Les as she had left a message on my phone. She does not have a land line so I used my phone card to call her and spoke about 20 minutes and it cost more than five dollars. I spoke to my friend Mary in England last night for about an hour and a half and it didn't even cost two dollars!!

I went back to the hospital at 6.00 and he was still reading and I am glad to say no rise in his temperature all day.

We are keeping our fingers crossed that the infection has been caused by a nick in the bowel during the repair op and as he was on antibiotics for the urine infection that kept it at bay but once they finished it came back with a vengeance. The CT scan shows that there is no bowel outside the muscle so all the swelling must have been the abscess so hopefully it should go down. At the moment he has that many tubes and bags attached to his tummy it looks like a plumbing experiment gone wrong!

The registrar came to see him as Mark had called and asked him to check on Jon and he was pleased with the vast improvement and with the way it is now draining and Mark will be in tomorrow and we will find out more. Hopefully, and all fingers crossed here, that will be it and he will just need to regain his strength and recover until he is well enough to travel.

I cannot believe the difference in him and am amazed at how he has bounced back so fast.

I left at 7.00 and got home and was just about to water the plants and had my dinner cooking when Margaret and Sharon called to see how he was.

I finally sat down to my dinner at eight o'clock and it is the first meal I have had since I don't know when and I really enjoyed it.

I watched some TV and did some knitting.


WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees but windy evening.

Saturday

I had  a text from Jon first thing to say his temp was up again this morning. I took him a coffee in but he did not look well and I ended up giving it to his nurse.

They had taken bloods again and the registrar had been to see him and called Mark but we needed to wait for the results.

I left to buy him some fruit to make him a fruit salad as he didn't fancy anything else. I then popped round to see Bronwyn who has been so good phoning me and making sure I am alright. We had a chat and while I was there I had a text from Jon to say that Mark would come in to operate this afternoon.

I took my shopping home and let poor old Totty out then went back to the hospital.

He really wasn't well when I got back but we had no idea what time he was going to theatre so we just sat and waited. The nurse finally came in at 3.20 and disconnected his drip and things and said you are off to theatre. We then waited another half hour before the orderly came up for him. He has been in a bed without sides since he came in but the orderly said she could not take him down in that so he had to get into another bed which was in the bay next to him. Funnily enough he said Oh this bed is so much more comfortable I keep this when I get back!'.

As it is only emergency ops on Saturdays we had to go and wait in a recovery ward till the theatre was free and where we would see the anaesthetist and the surgeon to sign the paperwork. Jon became very distressed and was having spasms of pain and was very uncomfortable. The nurse said she could give him some pain relief but then it went away til the next one.

Finally, at 4.40 Mark came through and explained what he was going to do but Jon was past it and just wanted to get on with it so they took him in. The recovery nurse, Mary, was very nice to me and said she would call me as soon as he was out so I went home.

I made a cup of tea as I was so thirsty and then I waited. I was getting very upset by the time it got to six o'clock and she finally called me at 6.30 - it was only supposed to take 30 minutes. She said he was sore and that it had been very nasty but they had cleaned it out and put another drain in so now he has two. She said he would be back on the ward in 20 minutes so I said I would go up at 7.00 which I did and he was just coming back.

He still didn't look well but he did look better than earlier. He was very dry and his throat was sore and he was having trouble breathing and started to panic. I told him to calm down and take deep slow breaths and he was soon breathing normally. He was allowed sips of water and I had brought him a sip bottle in so got him some nice chilled water.

He was then checked by two nurses and he needed his stoma changing - not sure what Bertie thinks of all this! It had been changed in recovery and had made a huge mess so he was very concerned it would do the same and asked if they could put a bag with an open/close pouch so it can be drained without removing it so that is what they were going to do as I left to come home.

I am so relieved it is over I really would not want to see him go through anything like that again.

I had a few people to call when I got home as they had left messages and I have been able to type my blog on the laptop which I got out and connected again and it is working so far. I do have an issue with no mouse though and keep going to touch the screen like the iPad!!

When I got back from shopping earlier there were two balloons on sticks saying get well and a smiley face tied with ribbon that Kirsty and James had sent to Jon so I took them to him when I went up.

I have done my blog early as I am now going to sit and watch some silly TV and relax before bed! And hope for a better day tomorrow.





WEATHER
Hot, wet and very humid 25 degrees

Friday

I HAD TO START AT THE TOP AGAIN SO IT'S ALL MIXED UP BUT START FURTHER DOWN READING THIS POST.

I have been dictating this rather than typing which makes it easier but I can't get any corrections at the bottom of the page so Jon is spelt incorrectly.

Jon really enjoyed his dinner this evening and ate most of it but he had called the nurse to come and see his side at 5.00 because it was swelling up again. A nurse came to see him and she and she told him his nurse had gone for her break the nurse said "we are entitled to breaks" . So he had to wait till she came back.

It was now 6.30 and still no nurse the orderly came in and we told her we were waiting for the nurse she said it was very quiet on the ward and Jon's nurse had been sent to work on the ward downstairs and she hadn't bothered to come and see him or get anyone to have a look at the wound, we were not happy! The orderly came back to say the doctor had been sent for and he would be up when he was free but at least we have been told something.

I waited till 730 then thought I ought to go home but by which time Jon looked like he had a fever again so on my way out I told the nurse to go and have a look at him because he had a temperature.

I had a text from Jon this evening to say the nurse came and gave him Panadol and his temperature was back up to 38 the doctor came to see him and explained that if the the abscess burst it would go into the bag so he needn't worry that it was getting swollen again the doctor also said they would take more bloods tomorrow to see if the infection was increasing and then they would go from there. I don't understand the lack of communication it is really frustrating they don't come back and tell you things. Anyway he sounded better when he texted me so hopefully he will have a good night and I will go and see him again in the morning and take some coffee for him it will be his first coffee in over a week!

I ate the rest of my toasted sandwich for my dinner this evening and watched some television and now I'm going to bed very tired again.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
START HERE I WILL BE SO GLAD TO GET THE COMPUTER BACK!

I went in to see Jon before I went to the Red Cross and he looked so much brighter and had had no temperature spike last night (medical term for shooting temp!) so I was very relieved.  I stayed for a little while and then went to the shop.

The shop was quite quiet this morning and only Rose, Lara and me were in. Rose drives me crazy as she is so edgy and nervy and I don't particularly like working with her but the morning passed quite quickly but it was very hot!

I had an iced coffee and went up to the rest room for 10 minutes to enjoy it. Lara left at 11 so we were very shortstaffed as only Rose and I were left. It was soon 1 o'clock and I was able to go across to the shop and get the two toasted sandwiches that I had ordered from Jon and I for lunch.

I arrived at the hospital and Jon still looks very well but he did say the drain was not working and they had decided to flush the tubes every four hours to see if they could improve the flow.

We both enjoyed our sandwiches and I'm glad to say that he did eat most of his which is the first proper food that he has had I left to go home as I need to do some things in the house and I need to sit down!

Back home the house was really hot and poor Totty was panting so I had to open all the windows and doors this weather is so humid at the moment.

I rang the shipping agent to tell him that we may have to postpone our booking and he said not to worry he will sort it all out for us.

Jon sent me an email as the company who have the computer were trying to contact us and they had the wrong phone number so I rang them and they need our cable it was 4.30 and they close at five so I had to rush off down with the cable.

The man explain to me what was wrong with the computer but that it's going to take another two days to sort out so it won't be back till next Wednesday he was very good telling me what was wrong and how he can fix it but we need to back up everything I told him Jon was in hospital and I couldn't do it so he is going to do it all for me. He looks a real geeky boy but he was very nice and very patient with an old woman!

I then went to the supermarket and bought some things that John had said he might like to eat and then got home it was by now late and I had told Jon I would be up with his dinner so I had to text him and telling that I was on my way I quickly cooked him some dinner and then left to go up to the hospital leaving Totty once again in a very hot house



WEATHER
Hot, sunny very humid 25 degrees

Thursday

This paragraph should be at the end. I will be so glad to get the computer back!
I love our little dog, she has spent two days shut up in a hot house yet she is always there waiting and wagging her little tail when I come in.

Can't type lower down now so need to finish. I have just had a nice chat with Heather and a bite to eat followed by Doc Martin to put me in a good mood now off to bed.
........................................................................................................
Not sure where to start so first thing this morning I suppose.

Jon went for a scan and I went to the hospital as he came back to the ward. We were told it would be two hours for the results and he was quite chirpy although he had had a bout of rigors last night due to his temp going up again.

I left to take the computer to be repaired and he also had a look at my iPad and told me how to sort it.

I got back to the hospital and we waited for the scan results which eventually came via one of the surgical team. Jon has an abscess which they will need to put a drain in later. He was still not allowed to eat or drink.

I left and went home for some lunch and had a text to say the scan would be 2.45.

I hadn't been able to sort my iPad and still can't get emails on my phone so I had to go back to the shop and the man very kindly sorted it out for me. I popped into the Red Cross as it is the same shops and had a chat with Les. I then went to Vodaphone who thought they had sorted my phone but it still won't let me get email but at least I have my IPad.

I went back to the hospital and Jon's room was empty and his things gone and the nurse told me they had moved him but he was not back yet. I went to look for him just as they were coming out of the lift. He was not happy at being moved. He asked if he could have a window bay and they did move him to the other bay. I think the man who belonged there will get a shock when he wakes as they just brought him back from theatre!

Mark had been up to see Jon and told him they hoped the infection would clear with antibiotics and that  it was not an infection in the mesh if it is the mesh he will have to be opened up and the mesh removed and so will have the hernia as it was - all a waste of time and we wish we had just left it as it was. We won't know for some days yet and he will need another CT scan once the abscess has drained. All of this means we probably won't be leaving on 26 March! I just want him sorted out and fit enough to fly home which we might even decide to do without stopping anywhere.

It took an age to clarify if Jon could now eat and drink. His arm swelled so they need to put a new line in a different place for the drip.

He didn't like the look of the dinner they had kept for him - the food is pretty bad! I went home to make him some dinner and took it back. He took one mouthful and didn't want it. He then tried some yogurt and couldn't eat that either so it all went in the bin!

He is having antibiotics every eight hours but he starts to feel really bad two or three hours before they are due and he just can't keep his eyes open. Hopefully as they get into his system more that will ease.

WEATHER
Hot and humid no idea of the temperature, apart from Jon's

Wednesday

Briefly, we went to the A&E Dept this morning and Jon was admitted. I wanted to go in my car as I don't drive his but he said no, they won't keep me in! Next time I will go with my instincts.

After various doctors and nurses checking him and blood tests it was decided to start him on antibiotics.

I left to get his things but had to get a taxi home.

A quick sandwich and one for him a few emails, when they worked and at last my phone is working. Throwing the battery on the floor must have helped!

I got back to find a very unwell Jon as his temp had gone up to 39. It did start going down due to medication and a fan and he started to look better. He had an x-Ray on his abdomen which was clear.

He was taken to a ward and given a room on his own which is very nice with a loo so he is pleased with that. Once settled I left again, poor Totty needed her dinner.

A few more calls, texts and emails and then I arranged with Des to pick him up and took him to get the car, brought it home and then I took him back before going back to see Jon again.

He still can't have food or drink. They are going to scan him in the morning and then possibly surgery to repair the hernia which will mean re position of the stoma, too. Not at all what we expected them to say. His surgeon will be in to see him tomorrow.

Looks like we may have to postpone our return till he is well enough to travel so it is just as well we haven't given notice on the house or anything yet. What a bummer!

On the plus side Totty has given up growling at me through the night so I have managed two I disturbed nights. Tough love!

I have had a stinking headache all day. I think it is the forced detox I am on due to the antibiotics for my tooth!

I can't type more than this as I have a sore finger now! I must get the computer in for repair tomorrow or using my iPad for everything will drive me mad but at least Chrome allows me to move around the page more than Google!


WEATHER
Overcast but hot and humid 26 degrees.

Tuesday

Just a short blog as my computer is not working and too difficult to type on my iPad which is also playing up along with my phone!

Didn't go to keep fit as I had a gynae appt which resulted in being told I need a prolapse repair but it will have to wait till we are back.

Jon not very well again and he just slept most of the day and only had an omelette in the evening so not eating much either.

I went to my aqua class which I really needed and enjoyed.

Jon asked me to check his tummy at bedtime and it is very swollen near the hernia and I said I think we should go back to the hospital tomorrow.

What a day! We are both regretting him having this surgery. So much pressure for him to get well and not many weeks to do so!


Weather
Hot and sunny 25 degrees

Monday

I was up a couple of time with Totty last night, one to let her out for the loo. She then woke me again and I just wanted to cry. This is like having a baby that won't sleep! I decided enough was enough and I let her growl at me and turned away from her. I eventually fell asleep and so did she. When I woke this morning there she was all tucked up and under her cover! So she can manage to do it herself!

I had a shower and washed my hair and Heather said she would call when I was free so I told her to call and chat to Jon first which she did and then we had a very long chat all about her trip to Barcelona.

I had to finish talking to her at 9.30 as I needed to call the dentist to try and get an appointment for the sore gum I have had since last week. I noticed last night that it was very swollen at the side and very painful.

My dentist is away on holiday but she called me back to say one of the other dentists would see me at 2.00.

I did my housework and washing and had some lunch and then went to the dentist.

I thought I would be given antibiotics to clear the infection but I got more than I bargained for! He took an x-ray and said I had an infection at the root which had pushed the gum away from the bone hence the swelling. He said he would need to clean it out and then have antibiotics. I had an injection to numb it and he started work. I have to say it was the most painful thing I have ever had done at the dentist but he told me I was very brave - bless!!

Hopefully, the antibiotics will sort it out and the gum will re attach to the bone. If this does not happen I am in for major works at the hospital. Fingers crossed! I have no time for all of this.

I stopped at the Red Cross on the way home and took in all the things I had sorted out yesterday so that is another lot gone.

I then went to the supermarket and the chemist to get my prescription and when I got home Jon was in. He has finally taken notice and cut his hours down!

I made him a cup of tea and I had one with a biscuit as I needed to take two tablets with food.

I sat and watched the cricket for a while and then got my washing in and did the ironing.

We had an email from the agent to say we can't fly BA from Vancouver without paying a big increase so we are back to going via San Francisco but it will have to be a day later so four days there and then arrive in UK on Monday 31. I will wait till it is confirmed before I do any further research.

Jon said he was not sure if he wanted much for his dinner as big meals do not appeal to him. He is not very helpful in telling me what does appeal to him though.

I made a chicken and rice dish which he said he really enjoyed.

He is going to decide tomorrow if he should go to Auckland or not but will work from home in the morning so no need for him to rush out.

I watered the plants as it is so hot at the moment and they are looking a bit the worse for wear but then I suppose we are coming into autumn.

We watched some TV and now I am going to go to bed and hopefully ignore Totty growling at me. I might have to put some earplugs in.

I think I had better go and make a lemon and honey drink for Jon as he has not stopped coughing so if the dog doesn't wake me he might!!

WEATHER
Sunny 24 degrees

Sunday

It has to be a record! Totty only woke me twice last night! AND we had a lie in till 8.30 - result!

Jon felt up to making his own breakfast this morning which is progress!

I had a chat to Heather on FB about her trip to Barcelona. I had a Google walk around Barcelona and was surprised how lost I got! It has changed so much. I am not much good as a tour guide now. Still, it was 43 years ago!

We went over to one of our favourite cafes for coffee and sat in the sun and enjoyed a nice piece of lemon yogurt cake as they had sold out of muffins.

On our way out we saw a lovely plant pot like a milk churn, really pretty so we bought it. I hope the container has elastic sides!

Back home and Jon looked very tired again. It does not take much to tire him out these days which is why I question him driving to Auckland on Tuesday.

I spent the rest of the day making lists of everything in the house, room by room as we need this for the inventory and insurance but it is so hard to do and price everything. Jon slept in the chair.

I went into the garden shed and sorted that out and collected all the things we don't want and put them in the boot of my car to take to the Red Cross.

I noticed that a lot of the agapanthus had gone to seed so decided to cut them down and put them in a rubbish bag. I then carried on cutting back the courgettes and the tomatoes. Not sure why I did it as it was so hot. The official temperature was 25 but so much hotter in the garden.

I eventually had to come in and have a very long cold drink and Jon was still asleep. The best thing for him I think.

I had taken two packets from the freezer one chicken and one pork and thought I would do kebabs on the bbq but when I opened them one was fish and the other pork. We do have some odd combinations these days.

I made a pork and vegetable stir fry and cooked the fish for Jon but he didn't feel like eating much tonight.

We watched some TV and I fell asleep but I am sure it won't stop me sleeping when I get into bed.

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Saturday

How annoying is it when you can have a lie in but wake at the normal time the alarm goes off?

I was not impressed with Totty last night either as she was up and needed her cover put back on ten times!!! I really wish I could break the habit but it is so annoying listening to her growl by my side until I put her cover on. Maybe, when we get back to the UK and we have central heating I can stop her doing it!

We went down to the Mount for coffee but on the way Bertie had a leak so we had to stop at the shopping centre to go to the toilets. All sorted and we set off again. It was only another few kilometres but Bertie had another leak. Not sure what has upset him but our first stop was the toilets again in the car park. Fortunately, he was well behaved after that.

We went to one of our favourite cafes and had a coffee and shared a brioche and sat in the sun.

After coffee we headed straight home as I thought Jon looked very tired.

When we got back he just sat in the chair and really didn't look well. I think he did too much staying at work all day. He never learns.

I asked my friend, Viv, to call the hotel in Napier to check if a room was free and they said it was so it looks like we won't get our money back.

I got ready and left to go to the Lions book sale as I was due on for the afternoon. I told Jon to either go to bed and sleep or sit in the chair but not to do anything else.

The book sale had been busy for most of the morning but not so busy when I got there. I spent the afternoon tidying the tables and putting books back in order. It was really hot in there though.

The afternoon passed quickly and I stopped for a break at three o'clock and went into the tea room and had a drink and a chat with some of the other ladies. We closed up at four o'clock and I went to buy some fruit and then home.

Jon was still sat in the chair but he had not been able to sleep but he did look better. Another quiet day tomorrow I think.

I sat and read my book for a while and then cooked dinner and we then watched some TV.

We are both really tired tonight and I know Jon will sleep well I just hope Totty lets me sleep!


WEATHER
Sunny and warm 26 degrees

Friday

I was up early this morning to get ready for work, a bit cloudy but the forecast is better for later in the day.

Jon left for work and I left shortly after him and got to the shop early as I knew Sharon was on holiday and not sure if Les would be in - she wasn't. Rose was in as manager today and although very nice she does get in a tizzy about things so I was not particularly looking forward to the morning. As it happens it was not too bad. We weren't busy but the morning went over quite fast. It was Jessica's last day today as she starts her childcare course at the polytechnic college on Monday. Not sure how she is going to cope with that. I imagine she must have been interviewed so they know what she is like. I just hope she isn't disappointed.

I left and came home and had lunch but was a bit later than usual so that Rose could have some lunch as she only had Fiona on this afternoon.

I left home to go and meet Jon at the hospital and when we went in the lady looked at his card and then at the computer and said 'this is for the 14 March'!!! We had both looked at the card and saw 14th and as that is two weeks after surgery, which is when he is usually seen, we both thought it was today!!!

We came home as he was fully booked and could not fit us in. I rang his secretary but she was on leave but I left a message to ask if we can have something to say Jon was in hospital and not able to travel so that we can try and get our money back for the concert. I will have to call again on Monday to see if they have sorted it.

Jon has had meetings all day and was very tired when he came home. He needs to go up to Auckland next week but not sure if it is for one day or two yet.

We had a cup of tea and I got my nose stuck into my book again until Jon went out for fish and chips!

We are still no further forward as to our flights home. The travel agent is still waiting for Air NZ to come back to them to see if we can go on the BA flight from Vancouver if not we have said we will go through San Francisco but not sure what day that will be. Such a muddle trying to get flights back!

We watched Coronation Street which is now on once a week for two hours which is a bit of a marathon. We record it and then watch it or it takes too long with all the commercial breaks.




WEATHER
Cloudy and sunny 23 degrees

Thursday

I was up and ready to leave for my walk today before Jon had had a shower!

I gave Jon meat last night which was the first time for about two weeks and Bertie was not happy about it and Jon was up and down a lot before he finally settled. Looks like we are on fish and chicken from now on!

I arrived at the park, which runs along part of the inner harbour, where we were all to meet and the tide was in which makes it much nicer to walk. When the tide is out at this particular place they get a lot of sea lettuce which smells really bad when it is drying out.

There were about 30 people to do the walk but some of them belong to the heart group for exercise so they only did a short walk but the rest of us from Body and Soul did the long walk but not sure how far it is.

Diane had not been able to get a coffee van so we only had a cold drink so Ros and I left and went to a café for a proper coffee and a chat.

I left Ros and went to buy some fish and got a John Dory and some king fish.

I then went to do some shopping but only the minimum that I need as I have to use up things I have in the cupboard.

I got back and had some leftover pasta and mixed it with some tuna and tomato.

I caught up with Neighbours before going upstairs to the office and spent ages putting our things for sale in the free ads which come out on Tuesday and need to be in by Friday. Ros told me about it and you can advertise as many things as you want as long as they are under $200 so if I want to adversities the fridge and washing machine I will have to pay but I think I will leave them for another week.

Jon came home and we had an early dinner as I had my Lions business meeting. I cooked the John Dory and it was very good. I just hope Bertie approves!

I went to the meeting which is the last business meeting I will go to and then I have one dinner meeting and that will be it.

I came home and rang my friend's husband in the UK to see how she is after her surgery and she is fine which is good.

We lost the Internet again. I have no idea why it just drops out but it does it a lot and makes me so angry.

Off to bed now to have a read.

WEATHER
Cloudy start followed by sun 23 degrees

Wednesday

I had a phone call from Jane this morning and she told me all about her scan and how much you can see on it, so much better than the ones I had.

I left to go and meet the ladies I used to swim with for a coffee. I did intend to walk around the Mount but had no time.

It was nice to meet up with the ladies and have a chat, not many more weeks I can do it.

I got home and just had time to have my lunch before going out to the bookrooms to help Lions as they are having a one day sale on Saturday which I can now help with as we are not going away.

They gave me a lovely book written by an artist from Tauranga. He spent 18 months travelling all over NZ doing paintings of all the places he visited and we have been to the majority of them. They are really colourful paintings with lots of detail. Not sure what style you would call it, they look like sophisticated children's paintings. He writes a little about each place and I just love it. Janice also gave me a lovely calendar which had a few places we have not visited so she says we must come back!

When I got back I fed Totty and then Jon came home looking tired after spending too long in the office so he had a little nap before dinner. I am reading Twelve Years a Slave so enjoyed some time reading - very sad.

I made the dinner, very easy two meals I had frozen. The freezer is looking so empty now!

We watched some TV and then I caught up with some emails and now off to bed to have another read.


WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 24 degrees

Tuesday

I hate it when I wake in the middle of the night and start thinking!!! I have a lot to think about right now so I was awake for hours but fell asleep about 6.30 and when the alarm went off at 7.00 it was very hard to get up!

It was nice to see a message from Jane telling us she is having a baby boy - very exciting. I might start making something now.

I went to my keep fit class and we are all struggling with the humidity at the moment and were glad when it got to mat time and we could lie down! another good class though and we worked hard.

I stayed for a coffee and a chat and the teacher said she is interested in buying the tumble dryer and her brother is looking for a fridge and washing machine but I haven't heard anything from her yet.

I went to New World and put the card on the board to sell our things so we just need to wait now and see.

Jon called me to say the DN had been and he was going over to the garden centre for a coffee so I asked him to order one for me and I would meet him there.

I arrived just as they were serving it so good timing. It was lovely sitting out in the sun.

We got home and I did a few bit around the house and then made Jon's lunch as he wanted to go into the office for a few hours.

Once he had gone I did some housework which I find very hard to do when he is around.

I had a phone call from Margaret to say she did not feel like going to the cinema tomorrow as they had had to have the cat put to sleep yesterday and she was feeling weepy. It is so horrible when you have to do that.

I spoke to the agent who is dealing with Totty's flight and she is now booked on the Wednesday flight - the same day as us! The stopover in Bangkok is not as long as I thought and will be enough time to transfer her from one plane to the other and top up her water. I was worried it was going to be very hot for her but it is evening which is even better but still hot in Bangkok!

I left to go to my aqua class and there were only five of us there today so she was able to keep a good eye on us and we had to work hard.

I came home and Jon was in. He told me that the flight we wanted from San Francisco to Heathrow is fully booked and as we don't want to spend an extra day there we have decided to go via Vancouver a bit longer but it works well. I quite fancy Vancouver and it looks very nice and there is a lot to do. The weather might be an issue though as it is only around 10 degrees at that time of year so I will have to pack our thermals! We just need the agent to get them booked before they fill up, too.

We had dinner, the other piece of the king fish I bought yesterday and it was very good and I will buy it again.

We watched some TV and that is another night over.

Six weeks tomorrow we leave!!!


WEATHER
Sunny spells with some cloud 23 degrees

Monday

We ended up sleeping with the fan on all night so we were not too hot and had a good night and woke to another lovely day.

Jon is feeling and looking much better this morning I am glad to say.

I sent out an email asking if anyone wants our concert tickets for the weekend I would prefer to give them away rather than them go to waste - no takers so far.

I also emailed the agent about Totty as they called last week to say the flight she was due to go on had been cancelled and we need to book another. Hopefully, they can board her two nights and she will fly out on the 26 March which is the same day as us!

As it was so nice we decided to go down to the Mount and have a coffee and managed to get a parking space right on the front near the café. It was lovely sitting there in the sun. It was very busy as there where three cruise ships in again.

On the way home we went down to the port to buy some fish but being Monday and the boats not back they didn't have much so ended up buying some king fish which looks a little like tuna in texture and very meaty looking.

We got home and I did a few jobs around the house and then made Jon some lunch.

I spent a nice afternoon reading. I have just started Twelve Years a Slave and want to read it before I see the film but not sure I will get through it, depends how long it is in the cinema for.

I did some ironing and then made the dinner and the king fish was very nice.

I washed up and watered the plants and tomatoes which are just about finished and then we watched some TV.

Another hot night and sounds like a party going on somewhere but once in our bedroom we don't hear any noise from the front.

WEATHER
Sunny 26 degrees

Sunday

A lovely sunny morning today and I was up early as I had a lot to do. I needed to empty the cupboards and drawers of the sideboard as the young couple had managed to arrange transport for this afternoon.

I did a load of washing and hung it out and it was already very hot.

I had a text from Jon saying he had persuaded Mark to let him come home but he needed two more IV antibiotics so would have to wait a while. They had forgotten to give him breakfast as he was put on the ward so late last night so he asked me to bring him something in.

I stopped at a café on the way and bought him a coffee and a bacon sandwich. The people who run the café are Thai and they misunderstood and gave me two bacon sandwiches which as it happens was good as I had not had any breakfast.

I arrived on the ward and Jon was surrounded by three VERY old men the oldest being 94 and there was a very unpleasant smell hanging around!! I can understand why he wants to come home.

I left about 12.15 to get home and carry on with my jobs and I did manage to get a lot done before he rang me at 1.15 to say he could come home whenever I was ready. I have ended up with lots of recipe magazines on the bed in the office so I will need to get a box to put them away before anyone wants to buy the bed!

Off I went again but we had to wait half an hour as the nurse needed to take out the line he had in his arm. He was very relieved to get out. The nurse said he is to go back to A&E if he has a temperature.

We got his prescription and went to the duty chemist to pick it up - 240 paracetamol and a weeks supply of antibiotics. and all for five pounds, so cheap.

We got home and I made him a sandwich and I had some fruit. It was really hot in the house and the temperature was 29 in the shade on the deck, one of the hottest days we have had this summer so far.

Jon spent the afternoon reading and I put a fan on for him so that he does not get too hot. We had a cuppa and a scone that I found in the freezer, with jam and cream. The freezer is getting very empty now.

The lovely young couple turned up for the furniture with another couple, Kiwis, to collect the furniture. They got so hot carrying it out poor things but they soon had it all loaded on the trailer. The lady that came with them works with the wife and I commented what a lovely couple they are and she said they are and she said so honest. One of the things that impressed me again is how good their English is, so many Asians don't even try to speak English.

I gave the young girl a bag of shampoos and conditioners and a whole selection of sanitary towels that Heather had left here. She was so happy with them and told me I was very generous. I also gave them some duvet covers that I was going to give to the Red Cross and a few other things. Once we pack up there will be some crockery which I have told her she can have. It must be so hard starting from scratch and not having much money so it is nice to be able to help them.

Her husband was most insistent that she gave me the money as soon as they came in and I put it on the shelf and he said 'put the money away in a safe place', bless him. It is their hard earned cash.

I told them if they change their minds about the TV to let me know but she said they want it as they don't have one at the moment so that is OK.

I gave them all so many glasses of water as they were all so hot after moving the stuff, poor things they chose the hottest day of the year but at least they will be able to sleep in a nice comfy bed tonight.

I made our dinner but we didn't really want much so just had some ham, a salad and I found a dish of cauliflower cheese in the freezer. Very odd combination but it all needs to be eaten!!Lol

We watched some TV and had all the doors and windows open and the fan on so it was lovely and cool downstairs but it is so hot upstairs. It is going to be one of those uncomfortable nights tonight but I am not complaining!



WEATHER
Hot and sunny 29 degrees

Saturday

After another night of heavy rain, who needs a tin roof, I was glad to get up this morning.

There was a letter in the post today for Jon's post op appointment with Mark for next Friday.

I rang Wotif to cancel our accommodation for next weekend. The Friday night hotel in Taupo have agreed to refund the money but the one in Napier says they will only refund if they can sell it again. I don't think they will have a problem selling it as the whole town is booked up but I wonder if they will let us know? That was the most expensive, too. The town ups the prices just for this weekend as they know people need accommodation. We'll see if we get it back.

I was going to go and take a coffee to Jon but he messaged me to say the nurse said he could go to the café in the entrance of the hospital but he needed a clean shirt as I had taken his home.

I took the shirt and went to see him and he was quite cheerful. They had decided to start IV antibiotics and he would have his first lot when he came back from 'coffee break'! Coffee is very important to Kiwis!

We enjoyed our coffee and then Jon went back to the ward and I went into the library to get him some books.

When I got home Kirsty rang me, the first time since before Christmas as they have not had a phone but she found out that she could buy 400 minutes on Skype for a pound so we had a long chat but we did lose each other a few times.

I had to finish as it was later than I had said I would take a sandwich in for Jon's lunch so I got on with that and went to see him.

He was still quite happy and had been seen by Mark who said he had to stay in.. If he is OK tomorrow they will continue antibiotics in tablet form but he needs to have a normal temperature which he hasn't got. Not sure what is going to happen about the hernia.

I left to go home as it was 2.30 and I needed to shop and get some lunch.

I went to New World for my shopping and asked for a card to advertise the things we have to sell on the noticeboard. I took down a number of someone who wanted to buy a bed and a fridge freezer.

I rang them when I got home and they said they would come round so I quickly made a cup of soup.

When they arrived, a young couple and little boy and another young girl of about 18, Totty ran out barking but I told them to ignore her but the little boy went hysterical screaming and jumped up his mother's back and clung to her like a monkey. It was funny but he was upset so I picked Totty up out of his way and they came in.

They said we had a lovely big house and the first thing they noticed was the canvas print of Kirsty and James' wedding and the man, Sanje, said 'Oh! the Queen of England'! I said no, our daughter. It was very funny.

They told me they have recently arrived from Nepal and they speak very good English. I told them we had other things to sell and gave them the list and they were very interested in the TV but I told them it was to stay till 24 March and they say that is fine. They bought the double bed, sideboard, chest of drawers and DVD player and my UV gel light and all the nail polishes as the young girl is doing a beauty course.. There were a few other things they liked but they only have so much money. they did ask if I would reduce things but I told them everything is practically new so no offers and they were happy with that and could see it was all good. The fridge she said was too small as they wanted a fridge/freezer.

They are coming back with the money tomorrow and I told them to pay for the TV when they get it in March but they are worried I will sell it someone else but I promised I wouldn't. Jon is so different to me, he says we should get the money from them now just in case they let us down. I suppose I should ask them to pay a deposit.

They left and I cooked some dinner to take in to Jon. David brought some magazines round for Jon as I told him he was not well on Thursday. They are all about planes and sailing an probably of little interest to Jon but it was a kind thought and I will take them to the hospital.

It finally stopped raining and the sun came out but it has been really humid. I got to the hospital and I knew he was not happy as soon as I walked in. He had just been told that they needed the room and he would be moved. Not sure why they need the room as the place is empty but never mind.

He ate all his dinner but I forgot to take his breakfast cereal in!

I left just after 7.00 to go and get some food for myself.

I arrived home and Sanje called to say they can come and pay for the furniture tomorrow afternoon and also take them as they have a friend who can help. Now I need to empty the sideboard and not sure where I am going to put everything. So glad they didn't buy the desk and wardrobe, too!

I couldn't be bothered to cook any dinner for myself so just had some Dukkah and bread and some ham and then I watched TV.

I had a chat to Heather on FB and a few texts from people asking how Jon is. I had a text from Jon at 9.45 to say he had just been moved to the ward and to the bed he was in after his surgery which although in a bay he says he feels like he is in a corridor. I told him being in a corridor is very different but he was not to be placated. Hopefully, and I have everything crossed, he can come home tomorrow.


WEATHER
Wet for most of the day, sun in the evening 23 degrees

Friday

When I left for work this morning Jon was just waking and said he felt better than he had last night.

We had a very busy morning in the shop with little time to chat due to the sale still being on.

I finished at 1.00 and rang Jon to check how he was feeling as I was going out with Carol for lunch for her birthday.

Jon was cross as he said the hernia was back and the district nurse had visited this morning to change his dressings and she agreed with him so he was feeling pretty fed up but said he was OK. He told me the vet had rung to say that Totty's blood tests were all very good so she is fit to fly - phew!

I had a lovely lunch with Carol at a café I have not been to before but I didn't stay long and got back home about 2.30.

I found Jon asleep in bed and not looking very well. He woke up and I felt his head and he was very hot and said he had been shaking but was cold. I thought he probably had an infection and rang the surgery.

I had to wait for the nurse to call me back and when I explained the situation she told me to bring him down to the surgery or call an ambulance to take him to hospital. I decided on the surgery.

They were very good there and we got into the treatment room pretty fast and when the nurse took his temperature it was 40 degrees and his blood pressure was very low. The nurse went to get him some Panadol and water to take and then she brought the doctor in who after a chat rang the hospital to have him admitted, gave us a letter and then I took him up to the hospital. I was very worried about him and felt quite ill myself.

He did start to feel better while we were waiting and his temperature did start to drop due to the Panadol but his shirt was soaked!

He was admitted to a nice room and a nurse came to put a line in and take bloods. We saw a registrar and explained everything and he was examined. Jon had no pain but felt ill and the high temperature was a worry.

I left to get his things from home and take him some food as the dinner they had offered him looked horrible - fish in breadcrumbs but it was like rubber.

When I got back another registrar was there examining him and after a lot of discussion it was decided that the hernia was back, he does have an infection but they are not sure where - urine, blood or stoma and they don't want to give him a general antibiotic as they would prefer to know what they are treating so we need to wait for the bloods to come back meanwhile they will keep his temperature down.

He ate the soup and sandwich I gave him and I left him with some fruit to eat later and he was looking soooo much better.

Mark, surgeon, will be in to see him tomorrow and they will decide what to do thought nothing much can be done about the hernia at the moment and I think it will have to wait till we are back in the UK.

If he has to stay longer than one night I think they will take him to a ward which he won't like. The room he is in is quiet and has it's own bathroom and a view onto a garden courtyard. There is a skeleton in the office across the way though which does not look that friendly.

I came home and had a sandwich and then emailed the girls and the family.

Unless I hear otherwise from him I will go in and take him a coffee tomorrow morning and see what they have decided.

We were supposed to be going down to Hawke's Bay next weekend to a concert but I now need to cancel the hotels and the tickets. Not sure if I will get anything back and I know I can't pass the tickets on for re sale but I will see what they say when I speak to them.

Off to bed now as I am very tired.



WEATHER
Overcast followed by heavy rain 22 degrees.

Thursday - Waitangi Day

Jon was not feeling very well at all this morning so it looks like it is one step forward and ten steps back. He says he thinks it is because he is hungry but then when I give him food he can't eat it.

He had a sleep on the settee and when he woke I asked him if he still wanted to go out for a coffee and he said he did. We didn't go far and he enjoyed his coffee and then we went back home.

I spent the rest of the morning doing some housework - it didn't feel like a bank holiday even the rubbish collections were on today.

I made Jon a sandwich for lunch and he ate half and then had a sleep while I went out to the supermarket to get a few bits as Jon said he would like some roast chicken.

Once home I had to wash the kitchen floor as it was driving me mad. After cleaning all the units tops the other day I had left water marks on the floor and it looked terrible.

I seem to have hurt my shoulder blade when I was carrying the garden rubbish up this morning and it is very painful. I might take a trip to the osteopath if it doesn't improve.

I cooked the chicken and just did mashed potatoes and vegetables with it. Just as I was about to serve it Jon said he felt ill and went to bed for a lie down! All that work and he couldn't eat it.

Jon got up later after I had finished my dinner and cleared away and said he would eat a sandwich which I made and he then went back to bed. Not sure how long I let this go on before we do something about it? At least Bertie is working properly now.

One good thing, one of my Lions friends wants to buy the freezer so I will need to get it emptied and not sure when she wants it. It's a start.


WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 24 degrees

Wednesday

The official temperatures are not high for the time of year but it certainly seems to be hotter than they say.

I did manage to get up early this morning and get Totty down to the vet for 7.45. He was running late again so I didn't get in till gone 8.00.

He had to shave some hair from Totty's neck as he said it would be easier to take the blood from the jugular!!!!. I had to hold her very still with her head raised which was uncomfortable for her and apart from one little move when he said 'no, no keep her still' all went well thank goodness. We now just have to wait for the results. I didn't get home until 8.45!

I made Jon his breakfast as he was just getting in the shower when I got back. Bertie has finally started to work properly and there has been no stopping him!!!

I made some chocolate cherry brownies today to take to the ladies at the book rooms. That is a few more ingredients used up from my cupboard.

We had lunch and then I left to go to Bethlehem and worked for a couple of hours but it was very hot in there.

I went to the supermarket to get some Panadol for Jon as we are running out as he is now taking it as he should every four hours and I can see a big difference in him - he is actually talking to me today! He still can't move well and I really think we should cancel our tickets to the Mission Estate Winnery concert but we will make our minds up on Saturday. It is such a long drive there.

Jon had managed to do some work from home and answered his emails and made a few phone calls so at least they can see he is working and he will get paid.

I cooked the dinner and Jon managed to sit at the table to eat it but had to go back to the settee for pudding so a big improvement.

We watched some TV after I had done the dishes.

I got a parcel yesterday from Uluru Camel Tours that we had visited in Ayre's Rock. One of the staff had promised me a pot of Bush Dukah as they had sold out when I was there. I thought they had forgotten all about it as it was back in June last year but it arrived in the post yesterday. I was very pleased about it. They were such lovely people and we had such a wonderful time that day. It cost them a lot of money to post it, too!

Early night tonight as I am tired. We have a bank holiday tomorrow but Jon has said he might like to go out for a coffee so we will see.


WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 24 degrees

Tuesday

It feels very strange Jon staying in bed in the mornings and me getting up.

I got ready for my class and sorted Jon out with his breakfast before I left, he still can't sit up at the table.

My class was really hard this morning and I think it might have been due to the humidity so much so that I was soaked at the end of it.

I didn't stay for coffee as I needed some things from the supermarket.

I had a look at the fish but it didn't look terribly fresh so decided to go to the wet fish shop in Greerton.

I bought my fish and then went to buy some coffee to take home.

I got back and sat with Jon for a while and we had our coffee before I did some chores and got changed out of my gym stuff.

We had lunch and then I did a few more chores before getting ready to go to my aqua class and I was looking forward to getting in the pool as it was so sticky.

The class was really good and we all enjoyed the new teacher again.

I got home and washed my hair as I need to be up early in the morning to take Totty so I won't have time and it always feels horrible with all the salt from the pool.

Jon told me the pet agent from Auckland had called to say that the Thai Air flight that Totty is booked on has been cancelled so we need to decide if she goes on the same day but with Qantas meaning three flights or boards one night in the kennels in Auckland and goes the following day which would mean one less day boarding in the UK and she would fly the same day as us! I hope this is not the start of a complicated procedure!

I made our dinner, crumbed fish with couscous mixed with roasted tomatoes and courgettes and it was very tasty.

I gave Jon some dark chocolate after dinner as Bertie is not working very well and I don't want him to have problems. He might end up with a glass of red wine for his breakfast at this rate!

We watched some TV and now I am off to bed and I hope I remember to get up and take Totty in the morning!

WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud humid 25 degrees

Monday

I didn't wake till 7.30 this morning and Jon slept till much later which is good as he was very tired after lack of sleep on the ward.

I had a Facebook message from Heather to say she is still having a battle to rid the fleas in the house which, now that Kirsty's cats have gone, are looking for a home!! She has tried everything to get rid of them but nothing is working. I rang my brother in law, Mick, as he used to work in fumigation for the council and he told me the best thing to do is get the professionals in to do the job properly as all these home remedies are a waste of money. I have emailed a company in Bury St Edmunds to give me a quote so we just have to wait now.

After speaking to Mick I had a chat to Joyce until Jon got up and then I said goodbye so that I could make him some breakfast as he didn't eat any dinner last night.

He said he felt better and did manage to eat scrambled eggs on toast. He is still not moving very well though.

Jon spent the rest of the morning lying on the settee and I did some cleaning. I have now finished the kitchen and even tackled the very, very dirty tops of the units. I had cleaned one when we moved into the house but they were so disgusting I couldn't face the others but it has always annoyed me that they were so dirty so today I cleaned them. I don't think they have been cleaned since the house was built 15 years ago.

I made some lunch and watched a bit of TV before getting back to the cleaning. I did the bathrooms and sorted the cupboards and threw all the half bottles of stuff away so that is all the cupboards done now so nothing much to do until we are ready to pack.

I haven't done anymore on the itemised insurance forms. I really hate the counting of everything. I think we will need to speak to the agent and ask him how precise it all has to be. We also need to count all our clothes and itemise them and put a amount of money on them. We will need to separate what we are going to pack to take with us and what is going in the container. All very confusing.

I made a point of ironing six shirts so my ironing is going to mount up.

I made a cup of tea and was sat drinking it and the phone went. I amswered it and it was the vet to ask if I wanted to re book the appointment for Totty. I knew as soon as she said her name that I had forgotten the appointment, it just went clean out of my head. I have re booked for 7.45 on Wednesday morning and now have four sticky notes around the house to remind me!!

I made dinner and we were sat eating in and Jon asked me to get him some Panadol which I did and then he said it was too painful to sit at the table and he had to go back to the settee. He should be taking Painkillers every four hours but he seems to think he can do without them - men!! I put his dinner on a tray and he finished it sitting on the settee which was an improvement on last night.

I did the dishes and then went to water all the plants before coming in to watch TV. We have recorded Last Tango in Halifax which was on before Christmas but every episode has been cut short due to the previous programme running over - typical TVNZ we should know by now to extend the recording by 20 minutes or so. However, that would not have helped tonight as it had only recorded ten minutes of episode five. We went to the next and final episode and it said 71 minutes but would you believe it cut out just when she is at the bedside and he is at death's door!!!! I had to Google it to find out what happens! I did see that in the UK they have already shown the second series and are making a third. I think I will have to get it out on DVD when I am back so that I can catch up.

I made us a  drink and then Jon went to bed and I reminded him to take his painkillers. He has been very quiet today and walks all hunched up so I gather he is in pain but he hasn't said so.

WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees

Sunday

A good night's sleep and Totty only woke me twice!!

I managed to do lots of odds and ends this morning and got the sheets changed and all the washing on the line as I don't think I will have time to do them tomorrow if Jon comes home today.

I hadn't  heard from him so I made a bacon sandwich and wrapped it with some hot plate warmers and took it to the hospital. I was surprised how busy the car park was for a Sunday but I did find a space.

I bought some coffees in the café but once again I was surprised how busy it was and it took a long time.

Up on the ward and Jon was standing at the nurses station talking to one of the nurses about coming home. They were trying to contact the on call registrar to discharge him but hadn't been able to.

Jon enjoyed the sandwich and ate it all and drank all his coffee today although it was only a small one.

We chatted and he told me he had not slept well and neither had the other two men in the ward due to it being hot and noisy and the beds too small.

I left him at 12.00 and he walked to the lift with me and said he would call if he was being discharged. Every time I leave the hospital I have to think where I have parked the car as I have been there so many times I can never remember! Dementia, maybe?

I went to the supermarket on the way home to buy some fruit and veg so that I could make him some dinner either to have in the hospital or at home.

I got home and had lunch and then just pottered around doing odd jobs and looking at the list of possessions we are taking back to UK as we have to itemise them and add the value! I keep putting it off but it needs to be done.

Jon rang at 3.00 to say he could come home so I went up to get him.

We gathered his things and then left with a letter to say he is not to lift anything for eight weeks. I can see I am going to have a hard time on the trip home lifting six suitcases and two cabin bags. I said he should wear a label on his forehead saying he can't lift anything!

Once home, as I knew would happen, he suddenly realised how tired he was and just sank into a chair for the rest of the afternoon and dozed or watched TV.

I spent a long time counting cutlery, glasses and dishes and pots and pans for the insurance forms. What a silly idea having to count cutlery and cups and saucers etc. Not to mention towels, sheets, pillows and so the list goes on.

I cooked a lovely dinner and he sat at the table and looked at it and said 'I can't eat this' and went back to the chair!!! Strange how full of fight he is in hospital and you get him home and he has no energy for anything but you daren't tell him it will be like that.

I enjoyed my dinner and then cleared away the dishes.

I then went into the yard and sorted out some plants and brushed up the fallen fuchsia buds that fall daily and look a mess if you don't keep them tidy.

Jon said he was going to bed about 9.00 which is probably the best thing and hopefully he will feel better and more cheerful tomorrow. No pleasing him really he would have been as well to have stayed in hospital.

I sat on the deck and read my book till the mozzies got the better of me despite the spray.

I watched some TV and here we are at bedtime again.


WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees