Our last day in SF and we got up and went across to the Buena Vista café for breakfast. It is a lovely old bar owned by a Chinese man. There were people sitting at the bar drinking what looked like small glasses of beer which I thought strange. They turned out to be Irish coffee for which the bar is famous.
We ordered our breakfast which was OK and I decided that as we were in such a bar famous for Irish coffee then I just had to try one! The owner made the coffee and it was amazing to watch how quickly he did it and it had a lot of whisky in but tasted very good despite the early hour!
We went back to the hotel and finished our packing and had the bags taken down to the concierge. We were due to be picked up to go to the airport at 4.15 so we had quite a time to spend at the Academy of Science. As we didn't have a lot of time to waste we decided to take a cab to the Golden Gate Park instead of the trolley bus and then the subway which potentially could have been difficult!
We arrived at the entrance and the taxi dropped us off and told me we could pick up a taxi from there to go back so we felt happy and thought we would need to leave around 3.00.
The academy is huge and we really enjoyed it. The aquarium is the best part but also they have a tropical butterfly and plant area, an earthquake house although having been through the real thing in Tokyo we didn't think it was that good.
We had lunch there sitting out in the sunshine in the garden.
We left and went for a walk in the park to see the Japanese Garden and the Botanical Gardens but as you had to pay for both and we didn't have much time we decided to just have a walk. We saw some people having a training lesson on segways which looked good fun. We walked towards the Flower Conservatory and we were feeling very hot and tired by now but I thought we would be able to pick up a cab along the road to get back to the hotel. No such luck!
Jon was by now tired, hot and getting very annoyed with me and the situation. Not sure why he thought it was my fault but he did. I knew the direction we had to head and thought we would soon find a cab but we didn't. I asked a man who was working on the road where was the best place to pick up a cab and he told me to head towards a McDonalds which we did and by now I was beginning to panic and Jon just wasn't speaking!!
No taxis near McDonalds so we walked down the street. I asked a man who was cleaning the windows in a bar where we could pick up a cab and he told us to cross the road to the Cha Cha Cha bar on the opposite corner and there would be one along soon.
Over we go and wait, not a cab in sight! I bravely went in to the Cha Cha Cha bar and pleaded with the man to ring a cab as we needed to get back to the city ASAP. One will be along soon he said.
A cab came down the road and I shot out to flag him down. He asked where we were going and I told him but he said he was at the end of his shift and could not take us that far. Pleading made no difference!!
A few minutes later another came along and out I go into the middle of the road to flag him down and he stopped and said he would take us. It was only 3.00 and the trip is about 20 minutes so we had plenty of time but by now we were both hot and bothered. Why did we do this on the hottest day!!
Our ride back was a bit like a scene from Streets of San Francisco! Going down some of the steeper streets we bounced over the crossroads. Would have been a lot of fun if I had not felt so cross about it all!
We were back at the hotel with plenty of time to spare but Jon was not happy as he did not have a clean shirt to put on and he was very hot. I sat in the entrance hall to cool down in more ways than one!
The car arrived to pick us up and we pilled all the luggage in and drove to the airport with the same pleasant man who had picked us up when we arrived.
At the airport Jon went to get a trolley, well two actually. They charge $5 per trolley or if you have a porter $1.50 per case. We weren't expecting this so it took a bit of time to sort out the money to pay for them. Cunning, you don't pay on arrival only departure.
We went to check in and there was a bit of queue and as we were business class they opened another check in for us which was nice. Finally, everything was checked in and we could relax again.
The Virgin Lounge is before you go through security so we went up there and sat and I had a very nice Red Carpet cocktail, well two actually as I thought I deserved them! The lounge is very nice and more like a restaurant with waitress service. I had a really yummy burger and Jon had salmon.
Our flight was called and we went downstairs where they have a Virgin man to get you through express security so we were through very fast and although Jon had to have a special search, as Bertie had been spotted on the scanner, it all went very smoothly.
I wanted to buy some chocolate for Heather as I had already bought some for Jane and Kirsty so we did that and they had to put it in a bag, seal it and then deliver it to the plane so that I did not eat it before departure!
We then went down to the gate for boarding but, of course, my chocolate wasn't there so they told me to board and they would bring it to me on the plane! Such service!
We were in the very front of the plane which was a jumbo but it meant Jon was one side and I was the other with an eight foot space between us so we used sigh language!
We had a lovely take off and I got a good view of SF and the bridge.
The flight was very good with not too many bumps but Virgin is not a patch on Air NZ. The matress on the bed is not so thick so not as comfortable and they only give one pillow so I flet like I was on my back and the indigestion did not help and I did not sleep very well. The dinner was OK and I picked at it but was glad I had had the burger before we got on.
They woke us for breakfast and we were told we would land early. I found the crew to be all very over the top friendly but not in a particularly pleasant way. More because it was their job unlike the Air NZ who are just very sincere and friendly. No hot towels to wake you up though! Breakfast was OK but only one bit of bacon in my bacon bap! Fruit and juice were good though.
Due to the early fog at Heathrow there was a delay landing and we had to circle so lost all our time and landed 20 minutes late!
It was a long walk to the terminal but as we were off first we got to security first and went through pretty fast. Our cases were just coming through as they had priority stickers on so we were out very fast and the driver was waiting to pick us up and off we went.
The drive home was fine with a bit of a hold up on the M25 but nothing much. The drive who picked us up is one that James' and Heather's company use for airport runs and the driver, Mark, had sent a text to James to say we were on our way so that they could all get down from Centre Parcs for when we arrived. On the drive James rang to ask what was going on as he had not got the text! Mark told him we were on our way so they had better get a move on.
When we arrived home they were all there and it was lovely to see them.
About an hour after we got home a van arrived bringing Totty. I went out and could hear her barking and the driver said she had barked all the way. It was lovely to see her and I was so relieved. She was happy to be out of the crate and apart from a little sore on her nose, where she must have been trying to get out of the crate I assume on the flight, she was very well.
Totty loved all the attention and here new bed and seems to remember the house, not sure if that is true but she does.
The girls and boys finally left to go back to Centre Parcs and we unpacked some things and sorted ourselves out and made some dinner.
We had a relatively early night and after feeling so tired I got to bed and couldn't get to sleep for ages!
WEATHER
Very hot today and sunny 26 degrees.
Tuesday, 29 April 2014
Monday
By far the warmest day we have had and no fog.
Once up and ready we went 'up one block' to Starbucks for breakfast, not bad. We had to take our drinks back to the room as they were so hot.
We went down to the lobby to wait for our ride which was late and I had to ask the desk to call and find out where they were!
We finally got on the bus and we knew we would have to change to the proper bus but had we known it was only down the road where we had booked we could have walked quicker!
We saw that a huge cruise ship had docked and it looked like it was coming down the street so far into the walkway it was docked. It looked so much bigger than the ones we get in Tauranga. I must check the size and see how it compares.
We set off on our drive and the driver was very amusing and we enjoyed the ride across the bridge and up to Muir Woods on a very winding road.
The woods were lovely with a lovely pathway through. The trees were bigger than the ones in Rotorua but not so many of them.
We walked back to the cafe and shop and ordered coffee and muffin from some very hostile looking people working there. The muffin was stale as and the coffee so strong and stewed - horrible.
Back to the bus and off to Sausalito which is a pretty town with some very plush looking house boats with small seaplanes tied up nearby. Not the hippy town it once was.
We had a look around the town and then it was time to get the ferry back which, only took 20 and not the 40 minutes as stated. The crossing was very smooth with lovely views of the bay, bridge and Alcatraz. As we got nearer the port we could see yet another huge cruise ship tied up and another due this afternoon.
From the pier we went to get the trolley bus up to Union Square. We had a look around and disparate for the loo were directed to Macys. We also tried to have lunch there but there was a long wait.
Back outside we walked around looking for a place and eventually came across a typical 50s diner. The food was nothing special but it looked great.
Back on our tired feet again we headed to Chinatown. We didn't find much of interest there really as it was all just like China and Chinatown in Sydney so we didn't stay long.
We went to the Cablecar Museum and Jon was by this time very grumpy and tired so we headed off to get the Cablecar back to our hotel.
Unfortunately, it was very busy and we were squashed inside with not much of a view so a bit of a disappointment really. Too many hour it's here now. I hate to think what it must be like in summer. Maybe we are just not used to all these people! I hardly managed to get a photo!
We saw another cruise ship coming in just as we got back.
We went to our room and had a rest before going out for dinner. We went to the local baker on the front. It was a lovely bistro and I had a delicious steak.
We got back to our room about 9.30 and I sorted all our cases out ready for the last leg tomorrow.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 21 Degrees
Once up and ready we went 'up one block' to Starbucks for breakfast, not bad. We had to take our drinks back to the room as they were so hot.
We went down to the lobby to wait for our ride which was late and I had to ask the desk to call and find out where they were!
We finally got on the bus and we knew we would have to change to the proper bus but had we known it was only down the road where we had booked we could have walked quicker!
We saw that a huge cruise ship had docked and it looked like it was coming down the street so far into the walkway it was docked. It looked so much bigger than the ones we get in Tauranga. I must check the size and see how it compares.
We set off on our drive and the driver was very amusing and we enjoyed the ride across the bridge and up to Muir Woods on a very winding road.
The woods were lovely with a lovely pathway through. The trees were bigger than the ones in Rotorua but not so many of them.
We walked back to the cafe and shop and ordered coffee and muffin from some very hostile looking people working there. The muffin was stale as and the coffee so strong and stewed - horrible.
Back to the bus and off to Sausalito which is a pretty town with some very plush looking house boats with small seaplanes tied up nearby. Not the hippy town it once was.
We had a look around the town and then it was time to get the ferry back which, only took 20 and not the 40 minutes as stated. The crossing was very smooth with lovely views of the bay, bridge and Alcatraz. As we got nearer the port we could see yet another huge cruise ship tied up and another due this afternoon.
From the pier we went to get the trolley bus up to Union Square. We had a look around and disparate for the loo were directed to Macys. We also tried to have lunch there but there was a long wait.
Back outside we walked around looking for a place and eventually came across a typical 50s diner. The food was nothing special but it looked great.
Back on our tired feet again we headed to Chinatown. We didn't find much of interest there really as it was all just like China and Chinatown in Sydney so we didn't stay long.
We went to the Cablecar Museum and Jon was by this time very grumpy and tired so we headed off to get the Cablecar back to our hotel.
Unfortunately, it was very busy and we were squashed inside with not much of a view so a bit of a disappointment really. Too many hour it's here now. I hate to think what it must be like in summer. Maybe we are just not used to all these people! I hardly managed to get a photo!
We saw another cruise ship coming in just as we got back.
We went to our room and had a rest before going out for dinner. We went to the local baker on the front. It was a lovely bistro and I had a delicious steak.
We got back to our room about 9.30 and I sorted all our cases out ready for the last leg tomorrow.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 21 Degrees
Monday, 28 April 2014
Sunday
A good night's sleep which was just as well as we had an early start. Jon did not do so well as Bertie played up and Jon did not get to bed till midnight.
We had room service breakfast which was OK and then we left to walk to Pier 33 for the ferry to Alcatraz and it took us about 20 minutes.
The morning was not very nice and we had horrible drizzle but the sun did come out once we reached The Rock and we had no more rain.
Alcatraz is much bigger than I imagined and as we docked a garden tour was just about to leave and as it took you to places that are off limits without a guide we decided to do it and were so glad as it was very interesting and told the history of the gardens which, surprisingly, did not grow vegetables but just flowered which were used to brighten the homes of the wardens, officers and their families.
We then went on the audio tour which was very good. I like audio tours as you go at your own pace, the place is quiet as everyone is listening and you can hear everything and are not left behind.
The cells are very small and have a bed, loo and a folding down metal table and bench. No personal effects were allowed and the front was all bars so everyone could see everything! If the were not good prisoners or had no outside work they were in the cells for 23 hours a day!
A really fascinating place and wer spent four hours there before catching the ferry back for lunch. We had better views on the return as it was sunny but still cold.
We went to man Italian and had pizza a and will have a small meal for dinner.
We then walked and walked looking around. We were both tired so went to the hotel with the intention of riding the trolley bus later but we fell asleep and it was too Kate when we woke up.
We went out for a cuppa and watched sourdough being made into all sorts of shapes. Then we walked some more before stopping for dinner at a wine bar.
We both tried three tasting glasses of white which were all very good. Jon had a crab salad and I had clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. I had a fit of the giggles as I finished and said to Jon 'I can't eat a whole bowl'! Meaning all the bread as we had seen so many people do. Lol! Well I thought it was funny and so did he.
We then went for an ice cream and walked back to the hotel very, very tired.
We have booked a trip to Muir Woods which will take us over the Golden Gate Bridge and we come back on a ferry.
Just had a shower and washed my hair to save time in the morning. All this wind and rain does it no good.
So tired now I could cry!
WEATHER
Wet start, cold then sunny and cold 16 degrees
We had room service breakfast which was OK and then we left to walk to Pier 33 for the ferry to Alcatraz and it took us about 20 minutes.
The morning was not very nice and we had horrible drizzle but the sun did come out once we reached The Rock and we had no more rain.
Alcatraz is much bigger than I imagined and as we docked a garden tour was just about to leave and as it took you to places that are off limits without a guide we decided to do it and were so glad as it was very interesting and told the history of the gardens which, surprisingly, did not grow vegetables but just flowered which were used to brighten the homes of the wardens, officers and their families.
We then went on the audio tour which was very good. I like audio tours as you go at your own pace, the place is quiet as everyone is listening and you can hear everything and are not left behind.
The cells are very small and have a bed, loo and a folding down metal table and bench. No personal effects were allowed and the front was all bars so everyone could see everything! If the were not good prisoners or had no outside work they were in the cells for 23 hours a day!
A really fascinating place and wer spent four hours there before catching the ferry back for lunch. We had better views on the return as it was sunny but still cold.
We went to man Italian and had pizza a and will have a small meal for dinner.
We then walked and walked looking around. We were both tired so went to the hotel with the intention of riding the trolley bus later but we fell asleep and it was too Kate when we woke up.
We went out for a cuppa and watched sourdough being made into all sorts of shapes. Then we walked some more before stopping for dinner at a wine bar.
We both tried three tasting glasses of white which were all very good. Jon had a crab salad and I had clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. I had a fit of the giggles as I finished and said to Jon 'I can't eat a whole bowl'! Meaning all the bread as we had seen so many people do. Lol! Well I thought it was funny and so did he.
We then went for an ice cream and walked back to the hotel very, very tired.
We have booked a trip to Muir Woods which will take us over the Golden Gate Bridge and we come back on a ferry.
Just had a shower and washed my hair to save time in the morning. All this wind and rain does it no good.
So tired now I could cry!
WEATHER
Wet start, cold then sunny and cold 16 degrees
Sunday, 27 April 2014
Saturday x 2
Tauranga
Well it is here at last, last day in NZ.
Carol,kindly cooked Jon bacon and eggs which he was very pleased about. I managed some toast and then we sat on the deck and chatted.
I had to hang my nightie on the line to dry as I had an argument with Carol's shower when I turned it on and soaked myself and the bathroom!
I packed up our bags and had some texts and FB messages saying goodby and they made me quite tearful. It is so hard.
The taxi arrived and instead of the big car I booked it was a Prius and no way would it fit our luggage so we had to put half I go Carol's car and go to the airport in two cars, not a problem as Carol was coming anyway but just annoying. We should have taken up the offer from Sharon go go in the ute!
We arrived and checked in and won't see our bah still SF which is good and then Jon realised he didn't have his hat! He thought he may have put it down outside Carol's house. Carol kindly went back to look for it and brought it to the airport. It is only a few minutes away but it was very kind of her.
We had a coffee and then our flight was called and after final goodbyes we boarded our little plane for the 20 minute trip to Auckland, very smooth and nice to view Tauranga as we are usually on the Mount side.
We walked across to International and then went for lunch at the pub.
Time to go through immigration! That is it the last, well potentially, of NZ.
We went to the lounge and found seats as we had over four hours to wait. Time passed quickly and I read and tried to sort my eReader which has deleted all my books, just as well I have my iPad!
I went down to Duty Free to spend our leftover dollars and bought some lovely body lotion and some perfume.
We had a cuppa and waited some more and then we had a glass of fizzy just before our flight was due to board. We were quite restrained for us and didn't eat or drink much as we wanted to enjoy our dinner on the flight.
After one more security check we boarded and the flight took off on time.
It was a very good flight, food was good for dinner and I watched the Monument Men and then went to sleep. It was a little bumpy through the night but we both slept at least six hours before being woken for breakfast.
It was a very smooth landing and as we had priority boarding/disembarking and luggage we were out pretty fast. The Immigration man was very nice and no issues. I really don't know why people object to travelling through USA we have done it three times now and no issues.
Our driver was waiting for us but was shocked at the amount of luggage and was not sure it would fit. We told him that we booked a car because of the amount of luggage.
He left us outside and went to collect the car which was a big Cadillac and easily fitted four cases in the boot, two in the front and a small one between Jon and I.
The drive to the hotel was short and when we checked in they told us our room would not be ready till 3.00 so we were given some vouchers for wine and seafood chowder and went off for lunch which was very pleasant but the mocha coffee let them down.
We then waited in the lounge but it was a long time and we were cross and tired and grumpy.
Eventually we got our keys and the room us lovely and we can see Golden Gate Bridge from our window.
After shower and change we went out for a walk. It is very busy here but it is Saturday, again!
We saw the seals at Pier 39 and looked in the shops before going back to the hotel to change for dinner.
We chose an Italian place across the road as we were tired. We had a lovely dinner but it took a long time to arrive and we were very tired by now.
We paid our bill and went back to the hotel.
We have an early start in the morning so have ordered breakfast in our room to give Bertie time to get going.
I don't like the adding tax on system here! If something says $4.99 it should be that but no, they then put the tax on why not just put it on in the first place!
Up tp date now so off to sleep.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 19 degrees Tauranga
Sunny with some cloud 16 degrees San Francisco
Well it is here at last, last day in NZ.
Carol,kindly cooked Jon bacon and eggs which he was very pleased about. I managed some toast and then we sat on the deck and chatted.
I had to hang my nightie on the line to dry as I had an argument with Carol's shower when I turned it on and soaked myself and the bathroom!
I packed up our bags and had some texts and FB messages saying goodby and they made me quite tearful. It is so hard.
The taxi arrived and instead of the big car I booked it was a Prius and no way would it fit our luggage so we had to put half I go Carol's car and go to the airport in two cars, not a problem as Carol was coming anyway but just annoying. We should have taken up the offer from Sharon go go in the ute!
We arrived and checked in and won't see our bah still SF which is good and then Jon realised he didn't have his hat! He thought he may have put it down outside Carol's house. Carol kindly went back to look for it and brought it to the airport. It is only a few minutes away but it was very kind of her.
We had a coffee and then our flight was called and after final goodbyes we boarded our little plane for the 20 minute trip to Auckland, very smooth and nice to view Tauranga as we are usually on the Mount side.
We walked across to International and then went for lunch at the pub.
Time to go through immigration! That is it the last, well potentially, of NZ.
We went to the lounge and found seats as we had over four hours to wait. Time passed quickly and I read and tried to sort my eReader which has deleted all my books, just as well I have my iPad!
I went down to Duty Free to spend our leftover dollars and bought some lovely body lotion and some perfume.
We had a cuppa and waited some more and then we had a glass of fizzy just before our flight was due to board. We were quite restrained for us and didn't eat or drink much as we wanted to enjoy our dinner on the flight.
After one more security check we boarded and the flight took off on time.
It was a very good flight, food was good for dinner and I watched the Monument Men and then went to sleep. It was a little bumpy through the night but we both slept at least six hours before being woken for breakfast.
It was a very smooth landing and as we had priority boarding/disembarking and luggage we were out pretty fast. The Immigration man was very nice and no issues. I really don't know why people object to travelling through USA we have done it three times now and no issues.
Our driver was waiting for us but was shocked at the amount of luggage and was not sure it would fit. We told him that we booked a car because of the amount of luggage.
He left us outside and went to collect the car which was a big Cadillac and easily fitted four cases in the boot, two in the front and a small one between Jon and I.
The drive to the hotel was short and when we checked in they told us our room would not be ready till 3.00 so we were given some vouchers for wine and seafood chowder and went off for lunch which was very pleasant but the mocha coffee let them down.
We then waited in the lounge but it was a long time and we were cross and tired and grumpy.
Eventually we got our keys and the room us lovely and we can see Golden Gate Bridge from our window.
After shower and change we went out for a walk. It is very busy here but it is Saturday, again!
We saw the seals at Pier 39 and looked in the shops before going back to the hotel to change for dinner.
We chose an Italian place across the road as we were tired. We had a lovely dinner but it took a long time to arrive and we were very tired by now.
We paid our bill and went back to the hotel.
We have an early start in the morning so have ordered breakfast in our room to give Bertie time to get going.
I don't like the adding tax on system here! If something says $4.99 it should be that but no, they then put the tax on why not just put it on in the first place!
Up tp date now so off to sleep.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 19 degrees Tauranga
Sunny with some cloud 16 degrees San Francisco
Saturday, 26 April 2014
Friday Anzac Day
After a really good sleep we woke to a lovely sunny morning and sat out on the deck for breakfast.
I put my washing on, not much but nicer to pack clean clothes than dirty ones.
We drove down to the Mount Main Street and went for a coffee and a muffin before walking around the Mount in beautiful weather.
We stopped off at Les' to get her details to change the car details then went back to Carotl's to get the paperwork then back to Les' to give her the car. It all worked well as she sold hers (my first car) this morning. We then walked back to Carol' which is about five minutes away.
Back to the house and we had lunch and then a relaxing afternoon doing nothing! I did manage 40 winks which was most enjoyable.
We drove down to Tay Street Cafe and met up with Sharon, Des and Margaret and had a lovely dinner, really tasty fish and chips and a lot of laughs.
Carol invited them back for coffee and they stayed for an hour before we had a very tearful goodbye.
We could not have asked for a better last night in NZ with some lovely people.
I went to bed waiting to hear from the agent that Totty had arrived.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 21 degrees
I put my washing on, not much but nicer to pack clean clothes than dirty ones.
We drove down to the Mount Main Street and went for a coffee and a muffin before walking around the Mount in beautiful weather.
We stopped off at Les' to get her details to change the car details then went back to Carotl's to get the paperwork then back to Les' to give her the car. It all worked well as she sold hers (my first car) this morning. We then walked back to Carol' which is about five minutes away.
Back to the house and we had lunch and then a relaxing afternoon doing nothing! I did manage 40 winks which was most enjoyable.
We drove down to Tay Street Cafe and met up with Sharon, Des and Margaret and had a lovely dinner, really tasty fish and chips and a lot of laughs.
Carol invited them back for coffee and they stayed for an hour before we had a very tearful goodbye.
We could not have asked for a better last night in NZ with some lovely people.
I went to bed waiting to hear from the agent that Totty had arrived.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 21 degrees
Thursday
I am a few days behind now so this will just be an outline of what has been happening.
We were up early ready for the men at 7.30 but they didn't get here till gone 8.00. Once here they didn't stop. They emptied the downstairs and I managed to get all the floors mopped before they wanted to pack my bucket!
Jon and I were at a stage with nothing to do so we decided to go off for a coffee just as the man arrived to collect his car so a quick handover and we were down to one car!
Went to our favourite place for a coffee then back to the house where the boys were now stuck into the upstairs and all the clothes!
I asked one of the guys if this was a big job and he said average but they were restricted on time which is shy they were rushing. I asked why and he said they had go get it all packed into the container as it was due down at the port at 4.00 to sail tonight! Wow, I thought it would be sitting around for a week or so. Good news and a really good job.
They finished just after one and as the rain started and as the people from the charity arrived to collect the fridge, washing machine and desk. One of the guys, who is a social worker and works in connection with Homes of Hope, was from Mexico and so we had a little chat in Spanish.
The house was now pretty much empty apart from the TV and Sanje was coming after 3.00 so I made our lunch as best I could with only a plastic knife. We had some nice egg mayo sandwiches and a bag of crisps, a ginger beer and the only place to sit was the steps leading down to the lounge but I needed to sit!
The carpet cleaner arrived and I didn't much like him as he messed up my clean floors by tramping around in his trainers and he smelt very strongly of cigarettes. It took him 25 minutes and he charged me $100 what a rip off but the agent needed to see an invoice!
He said he would clean the floor but he just swished a towel over it and left it a real mess. He left a card but I threw it away as I would not recceommend him.
Sanje an Kuldeep arrived for the TV and I gave her my vacuumed cleaner. We did intend to give it to Red Cross but we were having trouble fitting everything in our little car! She works at a bakery and had a huge chocolate cake in the car and told me to take some as it was freshly made today. It looked scrummy.
Once they left we locked up and drove to the agent to return the keys and our bond form then we set off to Carol's. I said to Jon isn't it nice you don't have to worry about forgetting anything when the house is empty and he agreed.
We got stuck in a bit of a traffic jam and I was thinking about my cuppa and the chocolate cake and suddenly remembered the food I had in the larder for Carol! Oops!
Thank goodness for the traffic or we would have been halfway across the bridge! I did a quick U turn and headed back to the agent.
Jon went in to get the key and said to the receptionist 'we've changed our minds'! She just looked at him shocked!
Back to the house to get the food and they told us to leave the keys insides of we could then go to the Mount on the bypass and miss the traffic! Silly me!
We spent a lovely evening at Carols and she cooked us a lovely roast dinner and a delicious pudding which had some pretty strong rum in 57.7%! Very yummy!
We had a reasonably early night and fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow!
WEATHER
Warm, sunny with cloud and rain later 20 degrees
We were up early ready for the men at 7.30 but they didn't get here till gone 8.00. Once here they didn't stop. They emptied the downstairs and I managed to get all the floors mopped before they wanted to pack my bucket!
Jon and I were at a stage with nothing to do so we decided to go off for a coffee just as the man arrived to collect his car so a quick handover and we were down to one car!
Went to our favourite place for a coffee then back to the house where the boys were now stuck into the upstairs and all the clothes!
I asked one of the guys if this was a big job and he said average but they were restricted on time which is shy they were rushing. I asked why and he said they had go get it all packed into the container as it was due down at the port at 4.00 to sail tonight! Wow, I thought it would be sitting around for a week or so. Good news and a really good job.
They finished just after one and as the rain started and as the people from the charity arrived to collect the fridge, washing machine and desk. One of the guys, who is a social worker and works in connection with Homes of Hope, was from Mexico and so we had a little chat in Spanish.
The house was now pretty much empty apart from the TV and Sanje was coming after 3.00 so I made our lunch as best I could with only a plastic knife. We had some nice egg mayo sandwiches and a bag of crisps, a ginger beer and the only place to sit was the steps leading down to the lounge but I needed to sit!
The carpet cleaner arrived and I didn't much like him as he messed up my clean floors by tramping around in his trainers and he smelt very strongly of cigarettes. It took him 25 minutes and he charged me $100 what a rip off but the agent needed to see an invoice!
He said he would clean the floor but he just swished a towel over it and left it a real mess. He left a card but I threw it away as I would not recceommend him.
Sanje an Kuldeep arrived for the TV and I gave her my vacuumed cleaner. We did intend to give it to Red Cross but we were having trouble fitting everything in our little car! She works at a bakery and had a huge chocolate cake in the car and told me to take some as it was freshly made today. It looked scrummy.
Once they left we locked up and drove to the agent to return the keys and our bond form then we set off to Carol's. I said to Jon isn't it nice you don't have to worry about forgetting anything when the house is empty and he agreed.
We got stuck in a bit of a traffic jam and I was thinking about my cuppa and the chocolate cake and suddenly remembered the food I had in the larder for Carol! Oops!
Thank goodness for the traffic or we would have been halfway across the bridge! I did a quick U turn and headed back to the agent.
Jon went in to get the key and said to the receptionist 'we've changed our minds'! She just looked at him shocked!
Back to the house to get the food and they told us to leave the keys insides of we could then go to the Mount on the bypass and miss the traffic! Silly me!
We spent a lovely evening at Carols and she cooked us a lovely roast dinner and a delicious pudding which had some pretty strong rum in 57.7%! Very yummy!
We had a reasonably early night and fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow!
WEATHER
Warm, sunny with cloud and rain later 20 degrees
Tuesday, 22 April 2014
Wednesday
We had a very early start this morning with a trip to the vet for Totty's health check and tapeworm treatment. He is very through and it took ages to complete the forms. He told me of a case where a vet missed off a zero from the microchip number and they nearly sent the dog back so I was glad he was so through, we don't want mistakes!
The vet said she is a very good specimen for her age and had really good, clean teeth. He gave her the tapeworm treatment and then had to treat her with Frontline even though I only did her last week as he would not sign the form unless he actually did it - another $20! The nurses were all there to say goodbye to her and I said I would let them know how she is once back in the UK.
I had seen the packers on the way to the house as I went out and by the time I got home, about an hour, my kitchen was half packed. Jon had asked him to leave us a few bits out to eat tonight and for breakfast. I don't think he heard, that could have been due to his earphones which he had in all day, as he packed everything even the kettle!!!
I had a drawer with foil, glad wrap etc. in and I was going to give it to my friend, no, it has been packed. They also packed a little dish we had to put loose change in. Now we have a dish full of dollar coins packed and on its way to UK where they will not be much use.
The three young men who packed were all very pleasant and introduced themselves when they arrived and also to me when I got back from the vet. We had a radio on in the garage another in the spare bedroom and one with earphones in and all different stations!
They certainly get on with it though and soon the house was looking very sad. Por Totty followed me around, apart from when the men had morning tea and she sat begging, and did not know what to do with herself.
I took a few photos of Totty in the garden and then it was time to go to the airport. I had to go on my own as Jon had a meeting and said he would meet me there.
I dropped off to give my friend some baking ingredients for the Lions ladies and a few bits for her little dog that I have not used. It was quite emotional saying goodbye to her as she was my Lions buddy and we had become close.
I arrived at the airport and Jon eventually arrived and we went in. We had to get some water to fill up her drink bowl in the crate and she had a fit of coughing. Not a good time to start when just about to get on a flight. A lady checked two cats in at the same time so she would have company but not sure she would be happy about that.
It came to the time to put her into the crate and then they put cable ties on it. I thought she would go mad but she was very good and only started to bark once we walked away. I was a bit chocked and could not say much but I remembered what one of the young packers said to me as I left. I told him where we were going and he said 'Ah! on her own' and I said yes and then he said, 'Well it is better than the alternative'. And he is right.
Jon and I went for lunch and then I went to have my car washed and had to hang around for an hour but as I couldn't do much at home I bought a magazine and had a coffee until it was done.
I got home and wiped out all the kitchen cupboards and did a few jobs until they said they could do no more and would be back at 7.30 tomorrow to finish by lunchtime.
I had a call from the agent in Auckland to say that Totty was fine and barking all the way from the airport but was now out and playing with a few other dogs. She has her MAF check in the morning and then spends the day at the kennels before going to the airport for her 9.30 flight.
We really wanted a cuppa so I rang Sharon to ask if we could borrow a pan to boil some water and Jon went over to get it. It was a very good cuppa.
I then started to bring the cases I had packed down the stair as Jon cannot lift them and we needed to take them over to Carol as we won't fit them all in my car tomorrow. We were supposed to keep Jon's car, too but the mad rang and said he only had a driver for the morning and if he couldn't have it we would have to take it over to Rotorua which is not an option so we had to give in which means only one car and Jon has a meeting tomorrow but no doubt I will be here cleaning the house so it doen't matter.
We dropped the cases off and borrowed a mop and bucket from Carol in case they want to pack mine and I still need to clean the floors and then went to buy a pizza.
Jon had been to the library earlier and bought two glasses from the Red Cross so we could have a glass of wine!
After dinner I cleaned the garage and the downstairs bedroom and we have put everything we need to take with us in there. I fear once they start on the bedroom tomorrow we will end up with everything in boxes so better to get it out of their way now.
I emptied the freezer and fridge in the garage and cleaned them ready for the charity to collect them tomorrow. Not much more I can do now till tomorrow.
I am feeling really, really tired now. Just looked at the clock and see it is past midnight so I think I had better go to bed. I still have a Neighbours to watch but I think I will have to give it a miss and catch up back in UK.
The phone and internet go off tomorrow and no doubt it will be first thing in the morning so things might be a little quiet over the next few days although Carol says we can use hers.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 23 degrees
The vet said she is a very good specimen for her age and had really good, clean teeth. He gave her the tapeworm treatment and then had to treat her with Frontline even though I only did her last week as he would not sign the form unless he actually did it - another $20! The nurses were all there to say goodbye to her and I said I would let them know how she is once back in the UK.
I had seen the packers on the way to the house as I went out and by the time I got home, about an hour, my kitchen was half packed. Jon had asked him to leave us a few bits out to eat tonight and for breakfast. I don't think he heard, that could have been due to his earphones which he had in all day, as he packed everything even the kettle!!!
I had a drawer with foil, glad wrap etc. in and I was going to give it to my friend, no, it has been packed. They also packed a little dish we had to put loose change in. Now we have a dish full of dollar coins packed and on its way to UK where they will not be much use.
The three young men who packed were all very pleasant and introduced themselves when they arrived and also to me when I got back from the vet. We had a radio on in the garage another in the spare bedroom and one with earphones in and all different stations!
They certainly get on with it though and soon the house was looking very sad. Por Totty followed me around, apart from when the men had morning tea and she sat begging, and did not know what to do with herself.
I took a few photos of Totty in the garden and then it was time to go to the airport. I had to go on my own as Jon had a meeting and said he would meet me there.
I dropped off to give my friend some baking ingredients for the Lions ladies and a few bits for her little dog that I have not used. It was quite emotional saying goodbye to her as she was my Lions buddy and we had become close.
I arrived at the airport and Jon eventually arrived and we went in. We had to get some water to fill up her drink bowl in the crate and she had a fit of coughing. Not a good time to start when just about to get on a flight. A lady checked two cats in at the same time so she would have company but not sure she would be happy about that.
It came to the time to put her into the crate and then they put cable ties on it. I thought she would go mad but she was very good and only started to bark once we walked away. I was a bit chocked and could not say much but I remembered what one of the young packers said to me as I left. I told him where we were going and he said 'Ah! on her own' and I said yes and then he said, 'Well it is better than the alternative'. And he is right.
Jon and I went for lunch and then I went to have my car washed and had to hang around for an hour but as I couldn't do much at home I bought a magazine and had a coffee until it was done.
I got home and wiped out all the kitchen cupboards and did a few jobs until they said they could do no more and would be back at 7.30 tomorrow to finish by lunchtime.
I had a call from the agent in Auckland to say that Totty was fine and barking all the way from the airport but was now out and playing with a few other dogs. She has her MAF check in the morning and then spends the day at the kennels before going to the airport for her 9.30 flight.
We really wanted a cuppa so I rang Sharon to ask if we could borrow a pan to boil some water and Jon went over to get it. It was a very good cuppa.
I then started to bring the cases I had packed down the stair as Jon cannot lift them and we needed to take them over to Carol as we won't fit them all in my car tomorrow. We were supposed to keep Jon's car, too but the mad rang and said he only had a driver for the morning and if he couldn't have it we would have to take it over to Rotorua which is not an option so we had to give in which means only one car and Jon has a meeting tomorrow but no doubt I will be here cleaning the house so it doen't matter.
We dropped the cases off and borrowed a mop and bucket from Carol in case they want to pack mine and I still need to clean the floors and then went to buy a pizza.
Jon had been to the library earlier and bought two glasses from the Red Cross so we could have a glass of wine!
After dinner I cleaned the garage and the downstairs bedroom and we have put everything we need to take with us in there. I fear once they start on the bedroom tomorrow we will end up with everything in boxes so better to get it out of their way now.
I emptied the freezer and fridge in the garage and cleaned them ready for the charity to collect them tomorrow. Not much more I can do now till tomorrow.
I am feeling really, really tired now. Just looked at the clock and see it is past midnight so I think I had better go to bed. I still have a Neighbours to watch but I think I will have to give it a miss and catch up back in UK.
The phone and internet go off tomorrow and no doubt it will be first thing in the morning so things might be a little quiet over the next few days although Carol says we can use hers.
WEATHER
Warm and sunny 23 degrees
Tuesday
Lovely sunny morning and glad to get up this morning and get on with all I have to do.
After my shower and a cup of tea, I am not able to eat very well at the moment - stress!! I set to and started more sorting and packing.
I was just about to leave to met with my friend, Elizabeth, this is our third attempt!! when Gill, district nurse arrived and parked in the drive! As I was in such a hurry Jon had to ask her to move the car so I could get out. I left her sorting out Jon's dressing which she says now needs a dry dressing as it is weeping so much and the surrounding skin is quite pink and sore, not surprising after such a long time being covered.
I had some things to drop off at the hospice shop as it was the nearest on my route. I intended to get the car cleaned while I was having coffee but there was a two hour wait|! I told him I didn't even have two minutes spare never mind two hours. Will have to re think this one.
I met Elizabeth and we had a lovely chat and a coffee, still couldn't manage any food even though she invited me! She gave me a lovely gift of three Hairy McLairy books to start my 'Granny' bookshelf collection. I think you have them in UK but not sure. Very nice books and I was really happy with the gift.
I left to go home and had a call from my friend about the sofa and she has arranged for Alison's husband to come with her and collect it. She was very apologetic and realises she has pushed our friendship to the limit.
I sorted more stuff out at home and managed to get the washing out to dry, first time in days!! Jon came back from his Pilates class and had a shower and went for lunch with Lisa who he worked with at Genera.
Bronwyn came for the sofa and we got it loaded into Doug's van so all sorted now and room in the garage to put our deck furniture so that it stays dry to pack. Phew!
I had some soup for my lunch and then Les arrived to collect the plants and some other things I had for her. We had a cuppa and a chat which was nice as I calmed down a bit.
Once Les left I got on with more sorting and taking pictures and photos down and the house is now looking very bare.
I made a cuppa and then Sharon called to say she could come round to pick up her food parcel. All my friends have some of my spices and larder food now.
Sharon and Des stayed chatting and telling us how happy they are with the GPS we gave them. They have never had one before and it was no good to us but they love it. I don't think their church congregation liked it so much when it said 'route re calculation' in the middle of the service! Des thought that unplugging it from the car was enough! Lol!
They left with pretty much all our fridge and freezer contents, just one lot to go and we are empty.
Jon then had to go and buy us some dinner as we had no 'proper' food. He bought some nice lamb steaks and a lovely salad and we really enjoyed our dinner. Which will be our last here. Take away tomorrow night.
I am up to date with TV now and the Sky box is more or less empty. Two years behind with Coronation Street so maybe now is a good time to give up on it..
Just got all Totty's papers ready for tomorrow and I had to write to the Electoral Registrar to take us off the list but I think that is everything covered now.
I am really not looking forward to taking Totty tomorrow. Jon has a meeting but has said he will meet me at the airport. It is going to be so hard and probably the worst bit about leaving NZ. The agent in the UK has said they will email me on our Friday night to tell me she is safe and well. So, fingers crossed everyone that she arrives safe and well.
Off to bed to try and sleep. Not sure what time the packers will be in in the morning, early I think. I wonder do they like tea as much as UK packers?
WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 22 degrees
After my shower and a cup of tea, I am not able to eat very well at the moment - stress!! I set to and started more sorting and packing.
I was just about to leave to met with my friend, Elizabeth, this is our third attempt!! when Gill, district nurse arrived and parked in the drive! As I was in such a hurry Jon had to ask her to move the car so I could get out. I left her sorting out Jon's dressing which she says now needs a dry dressing as it is weeping so much and the surrounding skin is quite pink and sore, not surprising after such a long time being covered.
I had some things to drop off at the hospice shop as it was the nearest on my route. I intended to get the car cleaned while I was having coffee but there was a two hour wait|! I told him I didn't even have two minutes spare never mind two hours. Will have to re think this one.
I met Elizabeth and we had a lovely chat and a coffee, still couldn't manage any food even though she invited me! She gave me a lovely gift of three Hairy McLairy books to start my 'Granny' bookshelf collection. I think you have them in UK but not sure. Very nice books and I was really happy with the gift.
I left to go home and had a call from my friend about the sofa and she has arranged for Alison's husband to come with her and collect it. She was very apologetic and realises she has pushed our friendship to the limit.
I sorted more stuff out at home and managed to get the washing out to dry, first time in days!! Jon came back from his Pilates class and had a shower and went for lunch with Lisa who he worked with at Genera.
Bronwyn came for the sofa and we got it loaded into Doug's van so all sorted now and room in the garage to put our deck furniture so that it stays dry to pack. Phew!
I had some soup for my lunch and then Les arrived to collect the plants and some other things I had for her. We had a cuppa and a chat which was nice as I calmed down a bit.
Once Les left I got on with more sorting and taking pictures and photos down and the house is now looking very bare.
I made a cuppa and then Sharon called to say she could come round to pick up her food parcel. All my friends have some of my spices and larder food now.
Sharon and Des stayed chatting and telling us how happy they are with the GPS we gave them. They have never had one before and it was no good to us but they love it. I don't think their church congregation liked it so much when it said 'route re calculation' in the middle of the service! Des thought that unplugging it from the car was enough! Lol!
They left with pretty much all our fridge and freezer contents, just one lot to go and we are empty.
Jon then had to go and buy us some dinner as we had no 'proper' food. He bought some nice lamb steaks and a lovely salad and we really enjoyed our dinner. Which will be our last here. Take away tomorrow night.
I am up to date with TV now and the Sky box is more or less empty. Two years behind with Coronation Street so maybe now is a good time to give up on it..
Just got all Totty's papers ready for tomorrow and I had to write to the Electoral Registrar to take us off the list but I think that is everything covered now.
I am really not looking forward to taking Totty tomorrow. Jon has a meeting but has said he will meet me at the airport. It is going to be so hard and probably the worst bit about leaving NZ. The agent in the UK has said they will email me on our Friday night to tell me she is safe and well. So, fingers crossed everyone that she arrives safe and well.
Off to bed to try and sleep. Not sure what time the packers will be in in the morning, early I think. I wonder do they like tea as much as UK packers?
WEATHER
Sunny with some cloud 22 degrees
Sunday, 20 April 2014
Easter Monday
Not sure how we managed it but we were up and ready and left the house just after nine this morning for our busy day.
First of all we drove to Rotorua and to see the Redwoods. These North American trees have been planted in Rotorua and make a lovely forest. We enjoyed a coffee and muffin first of all. We then went to the very quaint toilets before setting off on the half hour walk. Such a shame we haven't visited before as I would love to do some of the longer walks but most certainly not the eight hour one!
We left the woods and drove to Wai o Tapu thermal park. We have been here before but decided it was the one we would like to visit again. Unfortunately, once you have been to one you have been to them all and we didn't find it as interesting as we did the first time, still lovely though and good, warm weather to enjoy it.
We had lunch in the café before we left and then drove in to Rotorua with the intention of having a trip on the lake but it was not the right time so after a walk around and watch the sea plane take off we drove home.
I had a call from the couple who are buying the TV to say they could not collect on Wednesday and could they come today!!! I told them we were out for the day and it was not possible. They are now coming on Thursday.
I am, to say the least, a little stressed about a sofa I have been storing in our garage for a friend. She had arranged for someone to have it but they let her down with collection and now here we are just about to shift and the sofa still in the garage and us wanting to put our deck furniture in the garage to keep it dry. Unfortunately, she does not seem to feel the same urgency as me and I am just about to blow my top over it all as it should have been gone weeks ago. Had I know a favour would cause so much stress and phone calls I would not have done it. I am now told it will be collected tomorrow evening - could it get much closer to us moving out?? If it is not gone by the evening it will be up on the street with 'free' written on it for someone to take. I am so upset about it all.
Thankfully, my friend Ros came round this evening and collected the other plant trough so just a couple of plants to deliver and that is all sorted. Such a terrible headache all the time and really not fair as we have done as much as we could to make thinks easy for ourselves and now all this bother.
We had dinner and I watched a couple of programmes I had recorded so up to date with TV now.
WEATHER
Sunny spells with some cloud 22 degrees
First of all we drove to Rotorua and to see the Redwoods. These North American trees have been planted in Rotorua and make a lovely forest. We enjoyed a coffee and muffin first of all. We then went to the very quaint toilets before setting off on the half hour walk. Such a shame we haven't visited before as I would love to do some of the longer walks but most certainly not the eight hour one!
We left the woods and drove to Wai o Tapu thermal park. We have been here before but decided it was the one we would like to visit again. Unfortunately, once you have been to one you have been to them all and we didn't find it as interesting as we did the first time, still lovely though and good, warm weather to enjoy it.
We had lunch in the café before we left and then drove in to Rotorua with the intention of having a trip on the lake but it was not the right time so after a walk around and watch the sea plane take off we drove home.
I had a call from the couple who are buying the TV to say they could not collect on Wednesday and could they come today!!! I told them we were out for the day and it was not possible. They are now coming on Thursday.
I am, to say the least, a little stressed about a sofa I have been storing in our garage for a friend. She had arranged for someone to have it but they let her down with collection and now here we are just about to shift and the sofa still in the garage and us wanting to put our deck furniture in the garage to keep it dry. Unfortunately, she does not seem to feel the same urgency as me and I am just about to blow my top over it all as it should have been gone weeks ago. Had I know a favour would cause so much stress and phone calls I would not have done it. I am now told it will be collected tomorrow evening - could it get much closer to us moving out?? If it is not gone by the evening it will be up on the street with 'free' written on it for someone to take. I am so upset about it all.
Thankfully, my friend Ros came round this evening and collected the other plant trough so just a couple of plants to deliver and that is all sorted. Such a terrible headache all the time and really not fair as we have done as much as we could to make thinks easy for ourselves and now all this bother.
We had dinner and I watched a couple of programmes I had recorded so up to date with TV now.
WEATHER
Sunny spells with some cloud 22 degrees
Easter Sunday
It was a bright star to the day and after breakfast we decided to try for our last walk up the Mount.
We went to drop off some things to Sharon and Des and Margaret on our way. Des was very happy with the GPS we gave him.
We drove down and of course had to have a coffee before we started. I was surprised how busy it was. Usually, we are away for Easter and have missed all this! I think we have made the right choice in the past.
We set off up the Mount and the first bit is always hard but once over that and a few stops to admire the views we were soon at the top.
We were so lucky with the weather as it was clear and sunny but you could see the heavy clouds heading our way.
We saw two para gliders at the top, we had stopped them to ask if they could take a photo of us when we were half way up. They had made it, with their gliders, much quicker than us! One was already in the air and the other just about to go. It is fascinating to watch them take off and land in such a small, sloping space. I thought once they were up they just floated around till they were fed up and then landed on the beach.
We met a guy who Jon used to work with and had a chat and it was good to see him.
Going down was easier and much quicker and I took lots of photos. Well done to Jon for doing it again. There was a time when we thought he never would.
We went for lunch at one of the cafés and it was just clouding over.
After a lovely lunch of seafood chowder we went for a nice cream and walked back to the car just as it started to rain.
We got back and my friend Carol had collected the trough and a few other bits I had left in the porch, we are getting there, slowly.
Bronwyn called round to see us for a chat and then I sorted photos out on the computer and Facebook.
I am trying to upload photos to Picasa to back them up but it has taken all night to upload 302 photos. It never used to take this long. Because of this it is a short blog typed on my iPad.
Off to bed now.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells then showers 20 degrees
We went to drop off some things to Sharon and Des and Margaret on our way. Des was very happy with the GPS we gave him.
We drove down and of course had to have a coffee before we started. I was surprised how busy it was. Usually, we are away for Easter and have missed all this! I think we have made the right choice in the past.
We set off up the Mount and the first bit is always hard but once over that and a few stops to admire the views we were soon at the top.
We were so lucky with the weather as it was clear and sunny but you could see the heavy clouds heading our way.
We saw two para gliders at the top, we had stopped them to ask if they could take a photo of us when we were half way up. They had made it, with their gliders, much quicker than us! One was already in the air and the other just about to go. It is fascinating to watch them take off and land in such a small, sloping space. I thought once they were up they just floated around till they were fed up and then landed on the beach.
We met a guy who Jon used to work with and had a chat and it was good to see him.
Going down was easier and much quicker and I took lots of photos. Well done to Jon for doing it again. There was a time when we thought he never would.
We went for lunch at one of the cafés and it was just clouding over.
After a lovely lunch of seafood chowder we went for a nice cream and walked back to the car just as it started to rain.
We got back and my friend Carol had collected the trough and a few other bits I had left in the porch, we are getting there, slowly.
Bronwyn called round to see us for a chat and then I sorted photos out on the computer and Facebook.
I am trying to upload photos to Picasa to back them up but it has taken all night to upload 302 photos. It never used to take this long. Because of this it is a short blog typed on my iPad.
Off to bed now.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells then showers 20 degrees
Saturday, 19 April 2014
Saturday
Rain overnight again and thunder but it looked much brighter first thing so I hung my washing out very early. the trouble is it is also very humid and after so much rain very damp so not sure how well the washing would dry.
I had to change Jon's dressing this morning and the hardest part was trying to get the latex gloves on. The doctors and nurses get them on in a flash but maybe as I had been cleaning the oven and I was hot I could not get them on. We did manage though and it still looks OK.
This is the strangest Easter ever as we are usually away so never see much traffic or how busy it gets here for the Jazz Festival. This morning we went off to take the recycling and then go for breakfast. However, we got to the end of the bypass and the traffic was backed up to get to the Mount. We decided to do the recycling and then go back the way we had come and look for a place in Tauranga.
When we got back into town the traffic was just as bed but we eventually made it to a café for a very late breakfast.
After breakfast we went to the supermarket and you would have thought the shops had been closed for days as it was so busy. We have to close here on Good Friday and Easter Sunday but the shops were busier than at Christmas and so we were glad to get home.
I started to get the compost out of the second trough and managed to throw it all, trowel full by trowel full, down under the house which saved me from making the seven trips down carrying the compost as I had done yesterday.
Just as I was finished it started to rain so I quickly ran to get the washing in which was not very dry but had I left it, it would have been soaking as it poured down. So I am back to washing on the maiden in the spare room again!
Once the rain passed Jon and I went out into the yard and Jon hosed it all down while I swept it all away but not before the end came off the hose and I got soaked as it was twirling around a lot before Jon could get hold of it!!
All the outside jobs are done now and I went down to the shed (well it is more like a room under the house) and vacuumed it all and brought up the cardboard boxes which I flattened the other day, the ones we brought over with us, the removal man said they will take them away for us.
We had a cuppa and then I had four phone calls from friends one after the other. One from Les about the my car, one from a Lions lady to say goodbye and two from Bronwyn.
Jon told me that his wound was feeling sore and he thought it might be the type of dressing that the nurse had told me to use as he has never had it before. I decided to change it again in case the skin became too sore as we can do without anymore problems. After all stiches and bags and dressings his skin is quite tender now. He said it felt much better once I had put one of the other dressings on. The nurse is not due to come until Tuesday but if it is still sore tomorrow we will give her a call.
I will be so glad when this is all done and I am on the plane, a week tonight and we will be on our way, and hopefully I will know that Totty has arrived safely.
I finally managed to finish cleaning the oven. It wasn't rally messy but I just kept getting side-tracked and doing other jobs.
I cooked steak for dinner tonight and hopefully it will not upset Bertie.
I am off for an early night tonight as I am feeling very tired these days and have so much on my mind. I wake early and then can't get back to sleep.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and heavy showers 21 degrees - humid!
I had to change Jon's dressing this morning and the hardest part was trying to get the latex gloves on. The doctors and nurses get them on in a flash but maybe as I had been cleaning the oven and I was hot I could not get them on. We did manage though and it still looks OK.
This is the strangest Easter ever as we are usually away so never see much traffic or how busy it gets here for the Jazz Festival. This morning we went off to take the recycling and then go for breakfast. However, we got to the end of the bypass and the traffic was backed up to get to the Mount. We decided to do the recycling and then go back the way we had come and look for a place in Tauranga.
When we got back into town the traffic was just as bed but we eventually made it to a café for a very late breakfast.
After breakfast we went to the supermarket and you would have thought the shops had been closed for days as it was so busy. We have to close here on Good Friday and Easter Sunday but the shops were busier than at Christmas and so we were glad to get home.
I started to get the compost out of the second trough and managed to throw it all, trowel full by trowel full, down under the house which saved me from making the seven trips down carrying the compost as I had done yesterday.
Just as I was finished it started to rain so I quickly ran to get the washing in which was not very dry but had I left it, it would have been soaking as it poured down. So I am back to washing on the maiden in the spare room again!
Once the rain passed Jon and I went out into the yard and Jon hosed it all down while I swept it all away but not before the end came off the hose and I got soaked as it was twirling around a lot before Jon could get hold of it!!
All the outside jobs are done now and I went down to the shed (well it is more like a room under the house) and vacuumed it all and brought up the cardboard boxes which I flattened the other day, the ones we brought over with us, the removal man said they will take them away for us.
We had a cuppa and then I had four phone calls from friends one after the other. One from Les about the my car, one from a Lions lady to say goodbye and two from Bronwyn.
Jon told me that his wound was feeling sore and he thought it might be the type of dressing that the nurse had told me to use as he has never had it before. I decided to change it again in case the skin became too sore as we can do without anymore problems. After all stiches and bags and dressings his skin is quite tender now. He said it felt much better once I had put one of the other dressings on. The nurse is not due to come until Tuesday but if it is still sore tomorrow we will give her a call.
I will be so glad when this is all done and I am on the plane, a week tonight and we will be on our way, and hopefully I will know that Totty has arrived safely.
I finally managed to finish cleaning the oven. It wasn't rally messy but I just kept getting side-tracked and doing other jobs.
I cooked steak for dinner tonight and hopefully it will not upset Bertie.
I am off for an early night tonight as I am feeling very tired these days and have so much on my mind. I wake early and then can't get back to sleep.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and heavy showers 21 degrees - humid!
Thursday, 17 April 2014
Good Friday
Lots and lots of overnight rain with lots of thunder. The one and only time I am happy that Totty is now deaf!!
I was woken lots of times last night by Totty and the thunder and rain which went on and on. Reading the papers online we got off lightly as there was so much damage and flooding and not so far from here, the bonus of living on a hill!!
We went out for breakfast as I had not bought any cereal for Jon. Problem was, not many places open on Good Friday for breakfast but we did eventually find a café open. Jon had the full works and I had toast and jam but all very nice.
We then went home and got stuck in to packing and sorting. I also took compost from the troughs and took it down the garden to get rid of - seven trips later and one trough empty. Hard work but Jon cannot do it and it needs to be done.
I did a few bits around the house in-between showers and clearing the troughs but my hair looked like Shirley Temple by the end of it all!!
Jon decided we should go out for coffee so off again to find a café open. We found a nice French café and had a coffee before coming home and more packing. so difficult to know what to pack and how much space we will have.
I made us some lunch about 2.00 and enjoyed a rest and a quick TV programme before getting back to it.
Jon needed some of the wipes he uses to get his bag off and to protect the skin. He has to order every week and this week the lady rang to say they were out of stock of his bag but would send the rest of what he ordered. Well, of course, Easter and no delivery so no stock arrived and Jon only remembered this morning!!
I rang the district nurse and arranged to collect some wipes from their office at 5.00 this afternoon.
We spent the rest of our time sorting, packing and cleaning. I am not very good at packing when the house is in a mess so I needed to sort that out first and felt much better once it was done and all tidy.
We now have two suitcases packed and have managed to get a lot in.We now need to slow down and wait and see what the packers can take before packing anymore.
I made some coconut curry with prawns for dinner and then we chatted about how things have been her in NZ.
Jon went to bed and I came in to do my blog and now I need to go to bed, too. Hopefully, the weather will be better tomorrow and we can go out.
Too tired to type more now so off to bed.
WEATHER
Heavy showers with sunny spells 23 degrees.
I was woken lots of times last night by Totty and the thunder and rain which went on and on. Reading the papers online we got off lightly as there was so much damage and flooding and not so far from here, the bonus of living on a hill!!
We went out for breakfast as I had not bought any cereal for Jon. Problem was, not many places open on Good Friday for breakfast but we did eventually find a café open. Jon had the full works and I had toast and jam but all very nice.
We then went home and got stuck in to packing and sorting. I also took compost from the troughs and took it down the garden to get rid of - seven trips later and one trough empty. Hard work but Jon cannot do it and it needs to be done.
I did a few bits around the house in-between showers and clearing the troughs but my hair looked like Shirley Temple by the end of it all!!
Jon decided we should go out for coffee so off again to find a café open. We found a nice French café and had a coffee before coming home and more packing. so difficult to know what to pack and how much space we will have.
I made us some lunch about 2.00 and enjoyed a rest and a quick TV programme before getting back to it.
Jon needed some of the wipes he uses to get his bag off and to protect the skin. He has to order every week and this week the lady rang to say they were out of stock of his bag but would send the rest of what he ordered. Well, of course, Easter and no delivery so no stock arrived and Jon only remembered this morning!!
I rang the district nurse and arranged to collect some wipes from their office at 5.00 this afternoon.
We spent the rest of our time sorting, packing and cleaning. I am not very good at packing when the house is in a mess so I needed to sort that out first and felt much better once it was done and all tidy.
We now have two suitcases packed and have managed to get a lot in.We now need to slow down and wait and see what the packers can take before packing anymore.
I made some coconut curry with prawns for dinner and then we chatted about how things have been her in NZ.
Jon went to bed and I came in to do my blog and now I need to go to bed, too. Hopefully, the weather will be better tomorrow and we can go out.
Too tired to type more now so off to bed.
WEATHER
Heavy showers with sunny spells 23 degrees.
Thursday
I hadn't seen the weather forecast last night so had no idea what the forecast was. It rained all night with strong winds and then it rained all day with even stronger winds. I saw that we had the end of the cyclone that hit the Solomon Islands but it hit us harder than they thought. Lots of slips, roads closed, trees down and power outs.
We went to see the consultant for the last time this morning. He didn't check Jon's wound as we thought he might, just thought the nurses would sort it and me on Saturday. He gave us a summary of what has happened and we will take that with us and pack the main notes in the container as they are heavy!.
Jon dropped me home and then went out to a meeting and eventually came back with a coffee for me.
I spent the day sorting out things to pack. Still finding so much to do. We stopped for lunch and then got back to it.
I decided to use up some of my baking ingredients and mad a sponge cake for tea. The sun actually broke through at about 3.00 which was very nice.
I managed to get down to the store room downstairs which is like a shed, and bring all the tools and things up to the garage. I also flattened all the boxes we brought out with us as the removal company will dispose of them for us. I cleaned the room and only found ONE cockroach which I put out into the garden.
Jon was sorting out paperwork what is to go with us and what is to go in the container.
We did manage to confirm, with all the girls and boys, our trip to Windsor at the end of May so that is something to look forward to.
I sorted clothes and managed to get one suitcase packed - five to go!!
I cooked dinner tonight which was a chicken breast, some streaky bacon both from the freezer and I made a sort of paella which was very tasty.
I watched some TV and that is it. So tired now I need to go to bed!
WEATHER
End of a tropical cyclone, rain, wind sunshine!! 21 degrees
We went to see the consultant for the last time this morning. He didn't check Jon's wound as we thought he might, just thought the nurses would sort it and me on Saturday. He gave us a summary of what has happened and we will take that with us and pack the main notes in the container as they are heavy!.
Jon dropped me home and then went out to a meeting and eventually came back with a coffee for me.
I spent the day sorting out things to pack. Still finding so much to do. We stopped for lunch and then got back to it.
I decided to use up some of my baking ingredients and mad a sponge cake for tea. The sun actually broke through at about 3.00 which was very nice.
I managed to get down to the store room downstairs which is like a shed, and bring all the tools and things up to the garage. I also flattened all the boxes we brought out with us as the removal company will dispose of them for us. I cleaned the room and only found ONE cockroach which I put out into the garden.
Jon was sorting out paperwork what is to go with us and what is to go in the container.
We did manage to confirm, with all the girls and boys, our trip to Windsor at the end of May so that is something to look forward to.
I sorted clothes and managed to get one suitcase packed - five to go!!
I cooked dinner tonight which was a chicken breast, some streaky bacon both from the freezer and I made a sort of paella which was very tasty.
I watched some TV and that is it. So tired now I need to go to bed!
WEATHER
End of a tropical cyclone, rain, wind sunshine!! 21 degrees
Wednesday, 16 April 2014
Wednesday _ a week today and packing!
I trapped the corner of the dog's blanket in my bedside table drawer last night so when she got up at least the cover stayed by her bed and I did not have to get out and grope around the floor looking for it! Was much better.
It was dry this morning but looked overcast and not the sort of weather to hang out washing so it had to go on the maiden in the spare room again!
Jon left to go to a meeting and I got ready to go and meet the ladies from my aqua class for lunch.
There were about 15 of us and the teacher came though she looked so pale and all you could see were the freckles on her face, poor girl but it was nice to see her. Lunch was lovely and they told me to choose what I wanted as it was all paid for. Such a lovely lot of people I have met here.
We finished lunch about 2.00 and I went to see Carol at the Red Cross for a few minutes before going home.
Jon was home and we sorted out some plants on the deck and brought in the sunshade and put the base to be washed as it all needs to be clean before packing. I had just made a cup of tea and he had a call to go and meet someone.
I was just about to do the ironing, not much to do, and I remembered I had promised to take a heater over to my friend who wanted to buy it so I went over to Maungatapu.
When I got back Jon had been back and gone again to a dinner meeting down at the Mount. We are like ships that pass in the night at the moment.
I did the ironing and caught up with Neighbours and then caught up with The Paradise but still have three to watch and a few of Doc Martin but think I will mange.
Jon came home and we had a hot drink and now it is raining again so looks like I won't be able to hang out the washing tomorrow either.
WEATHER
Overcast with sunny spells 21 degrees
It was dry this morning but looked overcast and not the sort of weather to hang out washing so it had to go on the maiden in the spare room again!
Jon left to go to a meeting and I got ready to go and meet the ladies from my aqua class for lunch.
There were about 15 of us and the teacher came though she looked so pale and all you could see were the freckles on her face, poor girl but it was nice to see her. Lunch was lovely and they told me to choose what I wanted as it was all paid for. Such a lovely lot of people I have met here.
We finished lunch about 2.00 and I went to see Carol at the Red Cross for a few minutes before going home.
Jon was home and we sorted out some plants on the deck and brought in the sunshade and put the base to be washed as it all needs to be clean before packing. I had just made a cup of tea and he had a call to go and meet someone.
I was just about to do the ironing, not much to do, and I remembered I had promised to take a heater over to my friend who wanted to buy it so I went over to Maungatapu.
When I got back Jon had been back and gone again to a dinner meeting down at the Mount. We are like ships that pass in the night at the moment.
I did the ironing and caught up with Neighbours and then caught up with The Paradise but still have three to watch and a few of Doc Martin but think I will mange.
Jon came home and we had a hot drink and now it is raining again so looks like I won't be able to hang out the washing tomorrow either.
WEATHER
Overcast with sunny spells 21 degrees
Tuesday, 15 April 2014
Tuesday
Had a chat with Jane and Jason this morning which was unexpected and very nice.
Jon left to go to a meeting and I left to go to my last keep fit class.
The class was good and they gave me the card that I should have had last week at the lunch. It has been signed and so many lovely messages written. I will miss these ladies so much and hope I find a good class to go to when we get back. Some of the ladies are well into their seventies and older but they do so well, I just hope I do as well at their age!
We had photos taken after the class and I had made some biscuits and I chopped up and took a fresh pineapple in - we have to have the healthy bit to please Dianne! The biscuits went down a treat and even Dianne, teacher, liked them and they were impressed at how easy they are to make as they have no flour in them they are also gluten free so a winner all round.
I left the hall to go home and have a shower ready for my lunch with the girls from the Red Cross and Margaret.
Jon had a call from Medical Records to say his notes were ready! They were supposed to take 21 days but she said as they were urgent and she had a 'window' she did them. I had an Easter egg in the cupboard and put it in a pretty bag and told him to take it to her. She was very pleased with it and said nobody had ever given her a present before for doing notes.
We met up and they bought us a lovely metal Kiwi bird which is very big and can hold a plan or a candle and go in the garden. I have never seen one like it and I was so happy with it.
We had a good lunch and a chat. I had taken my swimming things as I intended to go straight to aqua class but we finished lunch and I had enough time to go home for a while.
I left to go to my class and took some recycling on the way and managed to get to my class very early so sat in the car for a while listening to the radio.
It was very quiet in the car park and I didn't see any of the usual ladies going into the pool but I thought I would go in and get changed anyway. When I got to the reception she told me the class was cancelled as the teacher had a fall and had concussion! They had sent a text out but I had been missed off the list!! She said I could have a free swim if I wanted but I said no. She wanted to check my mobile number for future but I told her it was to be my last class!! What a shame! It was the teacher's birthday today and I had taken a card and a little bottle of fizzy for her so I just left it at reception. Very sad face now!!
I drove home and had a cup of tea with Jon and then went out into the garden to sort out some plants ready to give away. I want some of the pots so had to re pot them into plastic pots. I also had to empty the compost out of the big troughs ready to give to Ros and Carol who had both admired them as we had them for growing herbs and tomatoes and they did very well in them. The problem is they hold three bags of compost each so are too heavy to move so I will have lots of trips carrying buckets of compost down the garden to get them empty. Unfortunately, it started to rain so I had to come in.
Jon left to go to a Pilates class and I finally caught up with Neighbours. I can't remember how far behind it is in UK but I need to be up to date when we leave.
I didn't want to eat tonight after having lunch out and Jon just had bread and cheese when he came in as he, too, had been out for lunch. Not sure when I am going to get rid of all my food in the larder if we keep going out!!
Off to bed now as I am so tired again with my naughty dog waking me so often through the night. I am looking forward to having an undisturbed night next week when she leaves but I will be so worried about her I probably won't sleep till I know she has her certificate to fly on Thursday night!
WEATHER
Cloudy with some sun and showers 21 degrees
Jon left to go to a meeting and I left to go to my last keep fit class.
The class was good and they gave me the card that I should have had last week at the lunch. It has been signed and so many lovely messages written. I will miss these ladies so much and hope I find a good class to go to when we get back. Some of the ladies are well into their seventies and older but they do so well, I just hope I do as well at their age!
We had photos taken after the class and I had made some biscuits and I chopped up and took a fresh pineapple in - we have to have the healthy bit to please Dianne! The biscuits went down a treat and even Dianne, teacher, liked them and they were impressed at how easy they are to make as they have no flour in them they are also gluten free so a winner all round.
I left the hall to go home and have a shower ready for my lunch with the girls from the Red Cross and Margaret.
Jon had a call from Medical Records to say his notes were ready! They were supposed to take 21 days but she said as they were urgent and she had a 'window' she did them. I had an Easter egg in the cupboard and put it in a pretty bag and told him to take it to her. She was very pleased with it and said nobody had ever given her a present before for doing notes.
We met up and they bought us a lovely metal Kiwi bird which is very big and can hold a plan or a candle and go in the garden. I have never seen one like it and I was so happy with it.
We had a good lunch and a chat. I had taken my swimming things as I intended to go straight to aqua class but we finished lunch and I had enough time to go home for a while.
I left to go to my class and took some recycling on the way and managed to get to my class very early so sat in the car for a while listening to the radio.
It was very quiet in the car park and I didn't see any of the usual ladies going into the pool but I thought I would go in and get changed anyway. When I got to the reception she told me the class was cancelled as the teacher had a fall and had concussion! They had sent a text out but I had been missed off the list!! She said I could have a free swim if I wanted but I said no. She wanted to check my mobile number for future but I told her it was to be my last class!! What a shame! It was the teacher's birthday today and I had taken a card and a little bottle of fizzy for her so I just left it at reception. Very sad face now!!
I drove home and had a cup of tea with Jon and then went out into the garden to sort out some plants ready to give away. I want some of the pots so had to re pot them into plastic pots. I also had to empty the compost out of the big troughs ready to give to Ros and Carol who had both admired them as we had them for growing herbs and tomatoes and they did very well in them. The problem is they hold three bags of compost each so are too heavy to move so I will have lots of trips carrying buckets of compost down the garden to get them empty. Unfortunately, it started to rain so I had to come in.
Jon left to go to a Pilates class and I finally caught up with Neighbours. I can't remember how far behind it is in UK but I need to be up to date when we leave.
I didn't want to eat tonight after having lunch out and Jon just had bread and cheese when he came in as he, too, had been out for lunch. Not sure when I am going to get rid of all my food in the larder if we keep going out!!
Off to bed now as I am so tired again with my naughty dog waking me so often through the night. I am looking forward to having an undisturbed night next week when she leaves but I will be so worried about her I probably won't sleep till I know she has her certificate to fly on Thursday night!
WEATHER
Cloudy with some sun and showers 21 degrees
Monday, 14 April 2014
Monday
Oh dear! Another day of trying to get washing dried when it is raining outdoors!!
Ever had so much to do you can't think straight? That is me right now.
I had to go into Tauranga to buy a few things I need to take home and also a birthday present for a friend here a couple of days after we leave.
I managed to get all I need and then had a coffee before heading home.
I did intend to take my washing to the laundry to dry it but managed to get it all on the maiden in the spare bedroom and with the window open hopefully it will dry.
I made lunch and then started clearing things out. I had to sort out all the toiletries that I want to take with me and all the ones to be packed and it took forever.
The district nurse came to dress Jon wound and it will need to be done again on Saturday and she asked me if I could do it. She told me what and how to do it and left me all the stuff including some gloves. Hopefully, it will be changed again on Thursday when we go to see the consultant which has been changed from 11.15 to 9.30 making it difficult for Jon as he had arranged a meeting for 9.00 so he will need to sort something out.
I told Jon to call the secretary at the hospital and ask about his notes as I can't do it for him. The secretary put him in touch with Medical Records who say, once he has filled in a form, it will take 21 days!!! He spoke to the secretary again to ask for a summary from Mark to take with us and the hospital will have to post the notes on. He went to the hospital and completed the form and also picked up his medical records from the doctor's surgery on the way back so at least we have something for when we get back.
I spent a long time on the computer when Jon was out sorting out paperwork for Totty which needed to be completed and then emailed back to the agent in UK.
I also booked our tickets for Alcatraz and had a reply from the hotel in SF about some other trips.
I had an email from the taxi company to say that they do have a big car and can pick us up from the airport so I think that is pretty much it for that side of things.
I had to get some thank you cards written to take to my keep fit class tomorrow and I made some peanut butter cookies tonight for the class in the morning. They have to be healthy or the teacher won't like it!!
I made two small pizza for dinner this evening which was a nice change. I am out for lunch tomorrow and Jon is out for dinner on Wednesday.
I have sorted out things to eat from the freezer and the cupboard and I have a lot of baking things left but I will give them to one of the ladies from Lions and she can do some baking for the ladies afternoon teas when they start at the book rooms again.
Very tired tonight so off for an early night and no playing Pet Rescue Saga once I am in bed!!
WEATHER
Overcast and showers 21 degrees
Ever had so much to do you can't think straight? That is me right now.
I had to go into Tauranga to buy a few things I need to take home and also a birthday present for a friend here a couple of days after we leave.
I managed to get all I need and then had a coffee before heading home.
I did intend to take my washing to the laundry to dry it but managed to get it all on the maiden in the spare bedroom and with the window open hopefully it will dry.
I made lunch and then started clearing things out. I had to sort out all the toiletries that I want to take with me and all the ones to be packed and it took forever.
The district nurse came to dress Jon wound and it will need to be done again on Saturday and she asked me if I could do it. She told me what and how to do it and left me all the stuff including some gloves. Hopefully, it will be changed again on Thursday when we go to see the consultant which has been changed from 11.15 to 9.30 making it difficult for Jon as he had arranged a meeting for 9.00 so he will need to sort something out.
I told Jon to call the secretary at the hospital and ask about his notes as I can't do it for him. The secretary put him in touch with Medical Records who say, once he has filled in a form, it will take 21 days!!! He spoke to the secretary again to ask for a summary from Mark to take with us and the hospital will have to post the notes on. He went to the hospital and completed the form and also picked up his medical records from the doctor's surgery on the way back so at least we have something for when we get back.
I spent a long time on the computer when Jon was out sorting out paperwork for Totty which needed to be completed and then emailed back to the agent in UK.
I also booked our tickets for Alcatraz and had a reply from the hotel in SF about some other trips.
I had an email from the taxi company to say that they do have a big car and can pick us up from the airport so I think that is pretty much it for that side of things.
I had to get some thank you cards written to take to my keep fit class tomorrow and I made some peanut butter cookies tonight for the class in the morning. They have to be healthy or the teacher won't like it!!
I made two small pizza for dinner this evening which was a nice change. I am out for lunch tomorrow and Jon is out for dinner on Wednesday.
I have sorted out things to eat from the freezer and the cupboard and I have a lot of baking things left but I will give them to one of the ladies from Lions and she can do some baking for the ladies afternoon teas when they start at the book rooms again.
Very tired tonight so off for an early night and no playing Pet Rescue Saga once I am in bed!!
WEATHER
Overcast and showers 21 degrees
Sunday, 13 April 2014
Sunday
I really enjoyed my sleep last night and woke this morning feeling very well and rested. Less than two weeks now.
Heather called and I had a chat to her and then she spoke to Jon. A very relaxing morning as we then went out for coffee.
We went to have a look for a silicone flan dish but couldn't find one but I did find a ridged grill pan which I will need for the dinner tonight.
We went across to Bayfair and had a look around the shops and bought a few things we needed before going home.
I tried to book cinema tickets online to see Tracks but their website is terrible and it would not go through so I ended up phoning them and they took the booking over the phone. As it was Sunday and not such a good day I thought it might be busy and I didn't want to end up sitting at the front of the very small theatre.
I made some lunch and then I had a phone call from a friend who was unable to come to the party as she was not well. I had to cancel on her when I had to take Jon to the hospital so we have now made another date and hopefully it will be third time lucky!
We went to Tauranga and parked and walked to the cinema and bought an ice cream before going into the theatre. We really enjoyed the film, a little slow but lovely scenery and it brought back some lovely memories of our trip to Australia.
When we got out it had been raining and I thought about my washing all wet for the second time. I really miss my dryer and I don't use it much!!
We got back and fortunately my washing was not too wet. Jon made a cuppa and we had a sit down.
Dinner tonight was burgers again as I have some left - the rest I will have to freeze and hopefully use before we go. We then had some cheese that I had bought for the party and forgot to put out!! I can see us living on leftovers for the next few days.
Time for bed now and I am really tired again. I have had to take my wedding ring off again as my finger is swollen and very itchy and red. I cleaned my ring with Tea Tree but it didn't help. Not sure what it is but it looks messy.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 21 degrees.
Heather called and I had a chat to her and then she spoke to Jon. A very relaxing morning as we then went out for coffee.
We went to have a look for a silicone flan dish but couldn't find one but I did find a ridged grill pan which I will need for the dinner tonight.
We went across to Bayfair and had a look around the shops and bought a few things we needed before going home.
I tried to book cinema tickets online to see Tracks but their website is terrible and it would not go through so I ended up phoning them and they took the booking over the phone. As it was Sunday and not such a good day I thought it might be busy and I didn't want to end up sitting at the front of the very small theatre.
I made some lunch and then I had a phone call from a friend who was unable to come to the party as she was not well. I had to cancel on her when I had to take Jon to the hospital so we have now made another date and hopefully it will be third time lucky!
We went to Tauranga and parked and walked to the cinema and bought an ice cream before going into the theatre. We really enjoyed the film, a little slow but lovely scenery and it brought back some lovely memories of our trip to Australia.
When we got out it had been raining and I thought about my washing all wet for the second time. I really miss my dryer and I don't use it much!!
We got back and fortunately my washing was not too wet. Jon made a cuppa and we had a sit down.
Dinner tonight was burgers again as I have some left - the rest I will have to freeze and hopefully use before we go. We then had some cheese that I had bought for the party and forgot to put out!! I can see us living on leftovers for the next few days.
Time for bed now and I am really tired again. I have had to take my wedding ring off again as my finger is swollen and very itchy and red. I cleaned my ring with Tea Tree but it didn't help. Not sure what it is but it looks messy.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 21 degrees.
Saturday, 12 April 2014
Saturday - Two weeks today!!!
Lots of overnight rain but what can you do.
I took Totty's crate up to the bedroom last night and she slept in it all night!! I hope she is as happy to go in it on 23 April.
It was a bit overcast this morning but it was warm and dry.
We went down to the Mount and had breakfast, which was very nice, and then went to buy bread. It is very hard buying food when you are not sure how many people will actually turn up.
We got back and I did all the preparations indoors and Jon did all the outdoors stuff and by 2.00 we were ready and waiting but nobody arrived till about 2.30. That is a horrible feeling.
Then everyone came in thick and fast and then I didn't draw breath. Jon was busy cooking and the afternoon just flew by. It was lovely to see so many of our friends here all together. Our first neighbours came with their three children who are now so grown up and they made us three lovely cards. Unfortunately, I didn't get time to take photos of everyone as I had planned which is a real shame.
All the food, far too much, went down well and everyone had a good time. We got some lovely presents, too.
My friend, Ros, had been over to Cambridge to see the Duke and Duchess this morning and she said it was very crowded but she was glad she went.
Soon people started to leave and then just a small group left and we chatted.
Once everyone had gone we got stuck in and tidied everything up and then sat down with a glass of wine and a bite to eat.
I still have so much food left to eat up we will need to have another bbq!
We are both very tired now so off to bed. I wonder where Totty will want to sleep tonight. She is very tired as she has been a busy girl today with lots going on and lots of food for her to eat!!
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 22 degrees.
I took Totty's crate up to the bedroom last night and she slept in it all night!! I hope she is as happy to go in it on 23 April.
It was a bit overcast this morning but it was warm and dry.
We went down to the Mount and had breakfast, which was very nice, and then went to buy bread. It is very hard buying food when you are not sure how many people will actually turn up.
We got back and I did all the preparations indoors and Jon did all the outdoors stuff and by 2.00 we were ready and waiting but nobody arrived till about 2.30. That is a horrible feeling.
Then everyone came in thick and fast and then I didn't draw breath. Jon was busy cooking and the afternoon just flew by. It was lovely to see so many of our friends here all together. Our first neighbours came with their three children who are now so grown up and they made us three lovely cards. Unfortunately, I didn't get time to take photos of everyone as I had planned which is a real shame.
All the food, far too much, went down well and everyone had a good time. We got some lovely presents, too.
My friend, Ros, had been over to Cambridge to see the Duke and Duchess this morning and she said it was very crowded but she was glad she went.
Soon people started to leave and then just a small group left and we chatted.
Once everyone had gone we got stuck in and tidied everything up and then sat down with a glass of wine and a bite to eat.
I still have so much food left to eat up we will need to have another bbq!
We are both very tired now so off to bed. I wonder where Totty will want to sleep tonight. She is very tired as she has been a busy girl today with lots going on and lots of food for her to eat!!
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 22 degrees.
Friday, 11 April 2014
Friday
It poured with rain overnight and this morning and finally stopped about 2.00 but was still cloudy. Apparently, we had 60mm in Tauranga so the farmers will be happy. I just hope it is dry for tomorrow!
I went to the Red Cross and took my chance by parking at the side of the shop as it was raining so hard. Last time I did that I got a ticket and that was a very wet day, too.
It was only Sharon and I this morning as Lara has a fractured bone in her foot and Les did not turn up.
Sharon had a meeting in the office with Noeleen, the manager, and so I was left on my own not that it was busy so the rain was good for something!
There is a horrible smell in the shop at the moment and the landlord is coming in to find it. I hope he finds it soon as it is absolutely horrible.
I was given my five year certificate today from Red Cross which is nice to have. Noeleen told Sharon to take me out for morning tea and as it was so wet we just went to the café a few doors down. I prefer the one across the road but the rain was bouncing off the road and walking down the street is all under canopies.
Back to work and the rest of the morning went over very fast. I did find a few nice things, well, it was my last day!
I left at 1.00 and went to the supermarket to do the shopping for the bbq tomorrow. Not really sure how many are coming but I have bought enough for 25 and more people are just coming for a drink. I am sure I will have enough.
Back home and I was so hungry but arrived at the same time as the district nurse who came to do Jon's dressing. I put the shopping away and she was finished when it was all away so I could have my lunch.
Jon had to go into the office and then he went to the airport to pick up the travel crate for Totty. All her papers say 'Toffee"! She seems quite happy to go inside so I just hope she continues to like it. I will try and get her to sleep in it tonight and see what happens.
I made a Tirimusu as I had a packet of mascarpone but then I had egg whites left so had to make a Pavlova. At least I know I have two puddings so if everyone brings salads tomorrow it will be fine.
Jon went out for our fish and chips which were really good tonight.
We watched some TV and now I am off to bed.
This time in two weeks I will be feeling very nervous and probably quite sad.
WEATHER
Heavy rain most of the day 22 degrees.
I went to the Red Cross and took my chance by parking at the side of the shop as it was raining so hard. Last time I did that I got a ticket and that was a very wet day, too.
It was only Sharon and I this morning as Lara has a fractured bone in her foot and Les did not turn up.
Sharon had a meeting in the office with Noeleen, the manager, and so I was left on my own not that it was busy so the rain was good for something!
There is a horrible smell in the shop at the moment and the landlord is coming in to find it. I hope he finds it soon as it is absolutely horrible.
I was given my five year certificate today from Red Cross which is nice to have. Noeleen told Sharon to take me out for morning tea and as it was so wet we just went to the café a few doors down. I prefer the one across the road but the rain was bouncing off the road and walking down the street is all under canopies.
Back to work and the rest of the morning went over very fast. I did find a few nice things, well, it was my last day!
I left at 1.00 and went to the supermarket to do the shopping for the bbq tomorrow. Not really sure how many are coming but I have bought enough for 25 and more people are just coming for a drink. I am sure I will have enough.
Back home and I was so hungry but arrived at the same time as the district nurse who came to do Jon's dressing. I put the shopping away and she was finished when it was all away so I could have my lunch.
Jon had to go into the office and then he went to the airport to pick up the travel crate for Totty. All her papers say 'Toffee"! She seems quite happy to go inside so I just hope she continues to like it. I will try and get her to sleep in it tonight and see what happens.
I made a Tirimusu as I had a packet of mascarpone but then I had egg whites left so had to make a Pavlova. At least I know I have two puddings so if everyone brings salads tomorrow it will be fine.
Jon went out for our fish and chips which were really good tonight.
We watched some TV and now I am off to bed.
This time in two weeks I will be feeling very nervous and probably quite sad.
WEATHER
Heavy rain most of the day 22 degrees.
Thursday, 10 April 2014
Thursday
After a lot of heavy rain overnight I woke to more of the same so my planned walk with my friend was a non starter. I rang Joan and we arranged to meet for a coffee and chat.
I did a few things around the house and as I could not hang out my washing and had no dryer I had to put it in the spare room on the maiden. The people who are coming to view the house will have to excuse the laundry!!
I left to meet Joan and although it was not raining you could hear thunder and it was quite humid.
I arrived at the café and was treated to coffee and Joan and I sat talking until nearly 1.00. I will really miss the ladies I have met here and everyday I realise how lucky I am to have made such good friends here and I will miss them so much.
I then made a quick dash to the supermarket as I realised there was no bread at home for Jon's lunch and he would be waiting for me to come home!!
He was not chewing on a dog stick when I got back but he was ready for his lunch.
Jon left for a Pilates class at 3.00 and I did a bit more window cleaning - never ending job!
I made sure the house was tidy for the viewing and then left to go and have tea with Alison. We had a nice chat and she gave me a lovely block photo of the Mount. I think we are going to need so much wall space back in UK.
I got back and cooked our dinner and then did some knitting while watching TV. We are slowly getting through the recorded list but no way will we have time to view it all.
My last day at Red Cross tomorrow. This is all so hard :-(
WEATHER
Cloudy and showers 22 degrees
I did a few things around the house and as I could not hang out my washing and had no dryer I had to put it in the spare room on the maiden. The people who are coming to view the house will have to excuse the laundry!!
I left to meet Joan and although it was not raining you could hear thunder and it was quite humid.
I arrived at the café and was treated to coffee and Joan and I sat talking until nearly 1.00. I will really miss the ladies I have met here and everyday I realise how lucky I am to have made such good friends here and I will miss them so much.
I then made a quick dash to the supermarket as I realised there was no bread at home for Jon's lunch and he would be waiting for me to come home!!
He was not chewing on a dog stick when I got back but he was ready for his lunch.
Jon left for a Pilates class at 3.00 and I did a bit more window cleaning - never ending job!
I made sure the house was tidy for the viewing and then left to go and have tea with Alison. We had a nice chat and she gave me a lovely block photo of the Mount. I think we are going to need so much wall space back in UK.
I got back and cooked our dinner and then did some knitting while watching TV. We are slowly getting through the recorded list but no way will we have time to view it all.
My last day at Red Cross tomorrow. This is all so hard :-(
WEATHER
Cloudy and showers 22 degrees
Wednesday, 9 April 2014
Wednesday
I was up and ready to go this morning as I had so much to do.
I had breakfast and then started to clean the rest of the windows. I am starting to think we live in a greenhouse there is so much glass!! I had to get the really tall ladder out to clean the windows and found lots of dead beasties on the sills!
Once I had had enough of window cleaning I decided to wash the floor as it was looking a bit messy due to dog prints and the damp weather.
I had just finished the floors and was about to treat my nails to some TLC when the agent called to ask if she could bring a lady round 'now' as she was over from Matamata. They are supposed to give 24 hours notice but she said she knew the house would be spotless so would it be alright! What could I say.
I had been so busy downstairs I hadn't made the bed so a quick scoot around to get things ship shape and then they were here! Jon left to meet someone for coffee just as they arrived.
The lady was very impressed with the house but she has two sons seven and ten and I would say it is not a house for young children and especially not boys as no place to kick a ball around without it rolling away somewhere. But it is their choice.
They finally left and I just had time to get ready to go out to my lunch with my keep fit group. The nails will have to wait another day.
I went to collect Margaret and then we went to collect Agnes and drove to the Thai restaurant.
I was very surprised that there were 24 ladies and a few husbands there. I was given a lovely metal wall plaque with an unfurling silver fern on it and it is really lovely and I was very touched as I had not expected anything. They also have a card for me signed by the ladies but they left it in the hall yesterday so will give it to me next week which will be my last class.
Our meal was lovely and very jolly. There were four of my friends from Lions there who go to these classes but on a different day. One of the ladies gave me a lovely baby set for Jane. It is a little jumper, a tank top, beanie hat and booties. It is so tiny and really lovely. I am so lucky with the friends I have made here.
Once lunch was finished we all got together for a group photo and the Thai waitress made us all stand properly and say cheese and no messing around, she was very funny.
A group of us then went for a coffee before driving home. A really lovely afternoon.
I got back and did some ironing and for the first time in a while I have no more until tomorrow that is when I do my washing!
Jon had been out for lunch today so I just made some falafels for dinner with pita bread and we watched some TV.
Off for an early night again as I have a walk around the Mount in the morning with another friend followed by coffee and then afternoon tea with Alison. Somewhere in-between I have some errands to do and more windows to clean not to mention the shopping for the party this weekend. At this rate I will sleep all the way to San Francisco!
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and showers 23 degrees
I had breakfast and then started to clean the rest of the windows. I am starting to think we live in a greenhouse there is so much glass!! I had to get the really tall ladder out to clean the windows and found lots of dead beasties on the sills!
Once I had had enough of window cleaning I decided to wash the floor as it was looking a bit messy due to dog prints and the damp weather.
I had just finished the floors and was about to treat my nails to some TLC when the agent called to ask if she could bring a lady round 'now' as she was over from Matamata. They are supposed to give 24 hours notice but she said she knew the house would be spotless so would it be alright! What could I say.
I had been so busy downstairs I hadn't made the bed so a quick scoot around to get things ship shape and then they were here! Jon left to meet someone for coffee just as they arrived.
The lady was very impressed with the house but she has two sons seven and ten and I would say it is not a house for young children and especially not boys as no place to kick a ball around without it rolling away somewhere. But it is their choice.
They finally left and I just had time to get ready to go out to my lunch with my keep fit group. The nails will have to wait another day.
I went to collect Margaret and then we went to collect Agnes and drove to the Thai restaurant.
I was very surprised that there were 24 ladies and a few husbands there. I was given a lovely metal wall plaque with an unfurling silver fern on it and it is really lovely and I was very touched as I had not expected anything. They also have a card for me signed by the ladies but they left it in the hall yesterday so will give it to me next week which will be my last class.
Our meal was lovely and very jolly. There were four of my friends from Lions there who go to these classes but on a different day. One of the ladies gave me a lovely baby set for Jane. It is a little jumper, a tank top, beanie hat and booties. It is so tiny and really lovely. I am so lucky with the friends I have made here.
Once lunch was finished we all got together for a group photo and the Thai waitress made us all stand properly and say cheese and no messing around, she was very funny.
A group of us then went for a coffee before driving home. A really lovely afternoon.
I got back and did some ironing and for the first time in a while I have no more until tomorrow that is when I do my washing!
Jon had been out for lunch today so I just made some falafels for dinner with pita bread and we watched some TV.
Off for an early night again as I have a walk around the Mount in the morning with another friend followed by coffee and then afternoon tea with Alison. Somewhere in-between I have some errands to do and more windows to clean not to mention the shopping for the party this weekend. At this rate I will sleep all the way to San Francisco!
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells and showers 23 degrees
Tuesday, 8 April 2014
Tuesday
I put my foot down with Totty again last night and would not put her cover on her. she woke a few times but I stuck to my guns and felt better for it this morning.
Heather called when I was in the shower and chatted to Jon and then I had a chat to her about her new job which she is settling into.
I had to leave and go to my keep fit class. Only one more class after today. Diane, the instructor, told me there are about 24 coming to the lunch tomorrow. I feel flattered that so many of them care.
After class I stayed for a coffee and to cool down and then went to the doctor's surgery to collect my notes. Jon need to get his own as they need to be signed for. I was surprised there was nothing to pay!
I came home and the gardener was here so had a chat to her to tell her we are leaving and she said she would be sorry to see us go.
I then did some ironing and Jon came back from his coffee break. The district nurse called and said she would come round if he was in.
When she checked his side she said she thought a dressing would be better than the bag now as not much is coming out and the hole has healed over. I just hope all the gunk is no out. He feels more comfortable now without two bags on his tummy.
We had lunch and then I did more cleaning. I started on the kitchen windows which are very hit above the main windows. When I got up there it looks like the sills have never been cleaned! I was a bit annoyed with myself for not checking them when we moved in as now it is down to me to clean them and it is not our dirt.
While I was cleaning the agent rang to ask if three people could come round on Thursday afternoon. I told her about the mess and she said if the windows are so high they would not check them anyway!!! I feel better now they are all clean. Still lots more widows to get down before we leave though. I just hope the spiders stay away and don't cover them with webs.
I then left in a shower of rain to go to my class but it was dry at the Mount until half way through the class and we had drizzle. good class though.
I got home and started to cook dinner and my keep fit instructor rang to say she could come over for the tumble dryer and she arrived not long after. She stayed chatting for a while and saying what a lovely house it is and then we managed to get the dryer out to the ute and her husband strapped it on.
I can't believe the next four days is showers maybe I will still need my dryer - too late now!
We had dinner and watched some TV and I did my knitting and now I am off to bed and hope Totty has got the message.
WEATHER
Cloudy with some showers, humid 25 degrees
Heather called when I was in the shower and chatted to Jon and then I had a chat to her about her new job which she is settling into.
I had to leave and go to my keep fit class. Only one more class after today. Diane, the instructor, told me there are about 24 coming to the lunch tomorrow. I feel flattered that so many of them care.
After class I stayed for a coffee and to cool down and then went to the doctor's surgery to collect my notes. Jon need to get his own as they need to be signed for. I was surprised there was nothing to pay!
I came home and the gardener was here so had a chat to her to tell her we are leaving and she said she would be sorry to see us go.
I then did some ironing and Jon came back from his coffee break. The district nurse called and said she would come round if he was in.
When she checked his side she said she thought a dressing would be better than the bag now as not much is coming out and the hole has healed over. I just hope all the gunk is no out. He feels more comfortable now without two bags on his tummy.
We had lunch and then I did more cleaning. I started on the kitchen windows which are very hit above the main windows. When I got up there it looks like the sills have never been cleaned! I was a bit annoyed with myself for not checking them when we moved in as now it is down to me to clean them and it is not our dirt.
While I was cleaning the agent rang to ask if three people could come round on Thursday afternoon. I told her about the mess and she said if the windows are so high they would not check them anyway!!! I feel better now they are all clean. Still lots more widows to get down before we leave though. I just hope the spiders stay away and don't cover them with webs.
I then left in a shower of rain to go to my class but it was dry at the Mount until half way through the class and we had drizzle. good class though.
I got home and started to cook dinner and my keep fit instructor rang to say she could come over for the tumble dryer and she arrived not long after. She stayed chatting for a while and saying what a lovely house it is and then we managed to get the dryer out to the ute and her husband strapped it on.
I can't believe the next four days is showers maybe I will still need my dryer - too late now!
We had dinner and watched some TV and I did my knitting and now I am off to bed and hope Totty has got the message.
WEATHER
Cloudy with some showers, humid 25 degrees
Monday, 7 April 2014
Monday
Another lovely day again today but more humid and very sticky tonight.
I am so tired I can hardly type. Since Totty has been ill I let her get into her bad habit of being covered up and she is waking me up so many time but this is made worse by me not being able to get back to sleep as so much on my mind.
Jane called this morning and we had a chat after she had a chat with Jon. All is going well with her apart from being upset about her rabbit and now her cat is not well. Not a good time for Trevenna pets!
Jon left to go to the airport for his flight to Christchurch but had to fly via Auckland and the flight from Auckland was delayed two hours and was not due to leave until after 1.00. He went to the desk and said he was coming back on the 5.30 so was there any point in him waiting? They then transferred him to another flight that was leaving at 1.00. This was all due to the fog in Wellington this morning.
I went over to one of my Lion friends for lunch today with two other ladies from Lions and we had a lovely afternoon chatting but it was very hot in her house and it would have been nicer outside I think.
I got back and fed the dog and brought in my washing and did some ironing and re made the bed.
It was lovely to see the pictures of the Royals arriving in Wellington but see 'Windy Wellington' lived up to its name! Cute little baby. They come over this way, to Cambridge, on Saturday but we have our leaving party so I won't be able to go and see them.
I had a bit of bread and cheese for dinner and then Jon called to say he hadn't managed a meal today so would need something when he got back at 8.30. Fortunately, I had a pizza in the freezer so cooked that for him.
I watched a bit of TV but can't keep my eyes open so an early night for me. Most unusual me in bed before Jon. I think I have to put some earplugs in tonight and be firm with Totty.
WEATHER
Sunny 28 degrees
I am so tired I can hardly type. Since Totty has been ill I let her get into her bad habit of being covered up and she is waking me up so many time but this is made worse by me not being able to get back to sleep as so much on my mind.
Jane called this morning and we had a chat after she had a chat with Jon. All is going well with her apart from being upset about her rabbit and now her cat is not well. Not a good time for Trevenna pets!
Jon left to go to the airport for his flight to Christchurch but had to fly via Auckland and the flight from Auckland was delayed two hours and was not due to leave until after 1.00. He went to the desk and said he was coming back on the 5.30 so was there any point in him waiting? They then transferred him to another flight that was leaving at 1.00. This was all due to the fog in Wellington this morning.
I went over to one of my Lion friends for lunch today with two other ladies from Lions and we had a lovely afternoon chatting but it was very hot in her house and it would have been nicer outside I think.
I got back and fed the dog and brought in my washing and did some ironing and re made the bed.
It was lovely to see the pictures of the Royals arriving in Wellington but see 'Windy Wellington' lived up to its name! Cute little baby. They come over this way, to Cambridge, on Saturday but we have our leaving party so I won't be able to go and see them.
I had a bit of bread and cheese for dinner and then Jon called to say he hadn't managed a meal today so would need something when he got back at 8.30. Fortunately, I had a pizza in the freezer so cooked that for him.
I watched a bit of TV but can't keep my eyes open so an early night for me. Most unusual me in bed before Jon. I think I have to put some earplugs in tonight and be firm with Totty.
WEATHER
Sunny 28 degrees
Sunday, 6 April 2014
Sunday
What wonderful weather for April. Records were broken today for the hottest April day and it was a wonderful day.
We went out for a coffee and then we drove out to a lookout that I have been saying we would visit for years and today we got there. So glad we did as the views were amazing up the coast to the Coromandel and down as far as White Island.
We then drove north of Katikati to Kauri Point Jetty which is a 200mt jetty jutting out into the inner harbour. Lots of people fishing there and the tide was in and the water so calm. Hard to believe that a Samoan man drowned when a stingray pulled him into the water here. It must have been rough weather as it looked so beautiful today.
We then went to the bird gardens and had a lovely lunch sitting amongst the beautiful tropical plants. Such a long time since we have had a day out.
We got back and did a bit of work in the garden getting things ready for packing and I cleared the leaves that have fallen from the olive tree to get it tidy for our leaving party next weekend. There are quite a lot of olives on the tree but I have no idea what to do with them but I think it is a long process anyway so I will leave them for the gardener or the next tenants.
I was so hot when I came back in as I had been working in full sun - very silly.
I finally finished the Thorn Birds and it was very good.
I cooked us some fish for dinner and then we watched Coronation Street.
Jon is off to Christchurch for the day tomorrow.
WEATHER
Sunny 29 degrees.
We went out for a coffee and then we drove out to a lookout that I have been saying we would visit for years and today we got there. So glad we did as the views were amazing up the coast to the Coromandel and down as far as White Island.
We then drove north of Katikati to Kauri Point Jetty which is a 200mt jetty jutting out into the inner harbour. Lots of people fishing there and the tide was in and the water so calm. Hard to believe that a Samoan man drowned when a stingray pulled him into the water here. It must have been rough weather as it looked so beautiful today.
We then went to the bird gardens and had a lovely lunch sitting amongst the beautiful tropical plants. Such a long time since we have had a day out.
We got back and did a bit of work in the garden getting things ready for packing and I cleared the leaves that have fallen from the olive tree to get it tidy for our leaving party next weekend. There are quite a lot of olives on the tree but I have no idea what to do with them but I think it is a long process anyway so I will leave them for the gardener or the next tenants.
I was so hot when I came back in as I had been working in full sun - very silly.
I finally finished the Thorn Birds and it was very good.
I cooked us some fish for dinner and then we watched Coronation Street.
Jon is off to Christchurch for the day tomorrow.
WEATHER
Sunny 29 degrees.
Friday, 4 April 2014
Saturday
I had a little lie in this morning but heard the phone ring and it was Kirsty so I had a quick shower while she chatted to Jon. I then had a long chat to her and a catch up.
We planned to go out for breakfast but ended up going later than we planned but it didn't matter.
We went to one of our favourite places and sat in the sun and had a lovely breakfast.
A quick trip to the supermarket for some bread and then home.
We had a sad message from Jane telling us her rabbit had died and she is very upset. What a week we have had in this family for pets illness!
I made an upside down plum cake to use up a tin of plums I had in the cupboard.
I made a recipe that I had seen on River Cottage with caramel chestnuts (I had a tin in the cupboard) and prunes stewed in cider. You are supposed to layer them with cream/yogurt mix but I just put them in bowls so people could choose how they ate it.
I prepared everything for the bbq and managed to do some cleaning and washing and read my book all before Sharon, Des and Margaret arrived at 4.00.
This was a leftover bbq so we had all the leftover meats that I had frozen so sausages, steak, lamp chops and lamb rump and I grilled some Portobello mushrooms a real mix but it seemed to go down well and there was nothing left.
The puddings went down well, too. As it was such a lovely day we were able to stay out on the deck till late.
I brought out all out bottles of liqueurs to finish up but the bottle of Baileys was the most popular.
We sat chatting till about 11.00 and then Pera came to take them all home.
A quick tidy round the kitchen and now I need to go to bed.
An extra hour in bed tomorrow as the clocks go back.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 27 degrees
We planned to go out for breakfast but ended up going later than we planned but it didn't matter.
We went to one of our favourite places and sat in the sun and had a lovely breakfast.
A quick trip to the supermarket for some bread and then home.
We had a sad message from Jane telling us her rabbit had died and she is very upset. What a week we have had in this family for pets illness!
I made an upside down plum cake to use up a tin of plums I had in the cupboard.
I made a recipe that I had seen on River Cottage with caramel chestnuts (I had a tin in the cupboard) and prunes stewed in cider. You are supposed to layer them with cream/yogurt mix but I just put them in bowls so people could choose how they ate it.
I prepared everything for the bbq and managed to do some cleaning and washing and read my book all before Sharon, Des and Margaret arrived at 4.00.
This was a leftover bbq so we had all the leftover meats that I had frozen so sausages, steak, lamp chops and lamb rump and I grilled some Portobello mushrooms a real mix but it seemed to go down well and there was nothing left.
The puddings went down well, too. As it was such a lovely day we were able to stay out on the deck till late.
I brought out all out bottles of liqueurs to finish up but the bottle of Baileys was the most popular.
We sat chatting till about 11.00 and then Pera came to take them all home.
A quick tidy round the kitchen and now I need to go to bed.
An extra hour in bed tomorrow as the clocks go back.
WEATHER
Sunny and warm 27 degrees
Friday
I have lost count of the times Totty wakes me at night now to put her cover on and find myself automatically searching around the floor in the dark to find her cover and putting it back on and she goes back to sleep but thankfully, last night, so did I.
Woke this morning and got ready for the shop and left the house just before 9.00.
Les was not in the shop but rang later to say she was going to Auckland so would not be in at all.
The shop is very quiet at the moment and I am not surprised as the stock we have in is not worth hanging up as it is so old and tatty, not the usual standard we have been used to.
Les rang me to say she wanted to buy my car as I had sent her a text with all the details yesterday so that is good not as much as we wanted but as we are leaving the country it is difficult to hold out for more.
Lara left at 11.00 and I had my coffee break and then Sharon had hers and we just about managed to keep ourselves busy.
The girl who was due in at 1.00 when I leave didn't turn up and when Sharon called her she said she didn't know that she was on but couldn't come in. I had to leave as I had a hair appointment so Sharon was left on her own but the manager said she would come in.
I had my eyebrows tinted and said to Beth that I don't think I will ever have a view from my hairdressers salon like this one as it is so pretty.
I then had my hair done and finished left at 3.00.
I went to the fish shop at the port and bought some fish and then to the supermarket and finally got home, very hungry at 4.00!
We had a cuppa and a hot x bun and then I had five minutes sleep.
The couple from Nepal who have bought some of our things rang to say they would like the car but can't pay the full price for it. I told them my friend wanted it and they said if she backs out they will still buy it so at least I have a back up but for even less than it is worth.
We went out for dinner down to the Mount and had a lovely meal. My pizza was so big I could only eat half and they wrapped up the rest to bring home. I also had the most delicious cup of de caf coffee.
Got home and feel really tired so off to bed now.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 23 degrees.
Woke this morning and got ready for the shop and left the house just before 9.00.
Les was not in the shop but rang later to say she was going to Auckland so would not be in at all.
The shop is very quiet at the moment and I am not surprised as the stock we have in is not worth hanging up as it is so old and tatty, not the usual standard we have been used to.
Les rang me to say she wanted to buy my car as I had sent her a text with all the details yesterday so that is good not as much as we wanted but as we are leaving the country it is difficult to hold out for more.
Lara left at 11.00 and I had my coffee break and then Sharon had hers and we just about managed to keep ourselves busy.
The girl who was due in at 1.00 when I leave didn't turn up and when Sharon called her she said she didn't know that she was on but couldn't come in. I had to leave as I had a hair appointment so Sharon was left on her own but the manager said she would come in.
I had my eyebrows tinted and said to Beth that I don't think I will ever have a view from my hairdressers salon like this one as it is so pretty.
I then had my hair done and finished left at 3.00.
I went to the fish shop at the port and bought some fish and then to the supermarket and finally got home, very hungry at 4.00!
We had a cuppa and a hot x bun and then I had five minutes sleep.
The couple from Nepal who have bought some of our things rang to say they would like the car but can't pay the full price for it. I told them my friend wanted it and they said if she backs out they will still buy it so at least I have a back up but for even less than it is worth.
We went out for dinner down to the Mount and had a lovely meal. My pizza was so big I could only eat half and they wrapped up the rest to bring home. I also had the most delicious cup of de caf coffee.
Got home and feel really tired so off to bed now.
WEATHER
Cloudy with sunny spells 23 degrees.
Thursday, 3 April 2014
Thursday
So much going round in my head at the moment I found myself awake at 2.50 and still awake at 3.50 so decided to get up and write down all the things I was thinking of. I answered a few emails and did my list and went back to bed at 4.30 and finally fell asleep about 5.00 thinking of more things!!
When the alarm went off this morning it was very easy to go back to sleep for ten minutes!
I did some clearing up in my larder cupboard and sorted out some tins of food and things that I will not use and got them ready to give to Margaret.
I was due to go out for lunch later but Jon came down from the office and said his drain bag was leaking and so he changed it and found that the stiches had come out again and it was only the bag that was holding it in.
I range the surgeons secretary and finally managed to track her down and she said Mark had a full clinic but she would contact him and call me back. I had to tell her to use my mobile as it had suddenly started to rain very hard and we had a power out so no phone and no Internet.
I had to ring my friend and tell her I thought lunch would be off but I said I would ring her if I thought I would manage to make it.
We had a call back and the secretary told us to come up and he would see us when he could but we might have to wait.
I left Jon at the door as I knew it would take a while to park but I was lucky and just got a space.
We didn't really have to wait that long and Mark called us in. He cut some of the drain off and then stitched it back in but just as he was tightening the stich it pulled it out again as there is not much left in, about two inches. We had commented that we were worried about the drain coming out on our flight or when we are in US and he understands that. He decided to leave it out altogether which is just as well or no doubt we would have been back again in a few days.
They put a bag back and now Jon feels much more comfortable. They have arranged for the district nurse to visit to make sure it stays clean and hopefully any pus will just drain out. If he has a temperature or feels unwell we have to call straightaway.
too late for me to make my lunch and I hadn't had any breakfast so we went for a coffee which was just as well as the rain was hammering down and by the time we had finished coffee the sun was out again.
Jon went to a meeting and I spent the afternoon calling people and cancelling things and feeling good about ticking things off on my list. Hopefully, I won't wake again tonight and have to make another. So many little things to do.
I went over to see Margaret to take the food things and then I went to see Bronwyn for a cuppa and a chat. She gave me a lovely jumper and beanie hat in navy and red and a little cardigan in navy and white to give to Jane that she had made in the hope of having a grandson but it was another girl which makes three so there will be no more!
I came home and cooked dinner and had to dry my washing in the dryer as we had had showers off and on all afternoon.
We watched some TV and I fell asleep not for long but I hope it hasn't taken the edge off and I can sleep when I go to bed. I am getting to the stage like when we came down here and so when I get on the plane I will sleep all the way to San Francisco - that would be nice.
Totty is still well and back to normal now.
WEATHER
Sunny, cloudy, heavy rain, sunny 23 degrees.
When the alarm went off this morning it was very easy to go back to sleep for ten minutes!
I did some clearing up in my larder cupboard and sorted out some tins of food and things that I will not use and got them ready to give to Margaret.
I was due to go out for lunch later but Jon came down from the office and said his drain bag was leaking and so he changed it and found that the stiches had come out again and it was only the bag that was holding it in.
I range the surgeons secretary and finally managed to track her down and she said Mark had a full clinic but she would contact him and call me back. I had to tell her to use my mobile as it had suddenly started to rain very hard and we had a power out so no phone and no Internet.
I had to ring my friend and tell her I thought lunch would be off but I said I would ring her if I thought I would manage to make it.
We had a call back and the secretary told us to come up and he would see us when he could but we might have to wait.
I left Jon at the door as I knew it would take a while to park but I was lucky and just got a space.
We didn't really have to wait that long and Mark called us in. He cut some of the drain off and then stitched it back in but just as he was tightening the stich it pulled it out again as there is not much left in, about two inches. We had commented that we were worried about the drain coming out on our flight or when we are in US and he understands that. He decided to leave it out altogether which is just as well or no doubt we would have been back again in a few days.
They put a bag back and now Jon feels much more comfortable. They have arranged for the district nurse to visit to make sure it stays clean and hopefully any pus will just drain out. If he has a temperature or feels unwell we have to call straightaway.
too late for me to make my lunch and I hadn't had any breakfast so we went for a coffee which was just as well as the rain was hammering down and by the time we had finished coffee the sun was out again.
Jon went to a meeting and I spent the afternoon calling people and cancelling things and feeling good about ticking things off on my list. Hopefully, I won't wake again tonight and have to make another. So many little things to do.
I went over to see Margaret to take the food things and then I went to see Bronwyn for a cuppa and a chat. She gave me a lovely jumper and beanie hat in navy and red and a little cardigan in navy and white to give to Jane that she had made in the hope of having a grandson but it was another girl which makes three so there will be no more!
I came home and cooked dinner and had to dry my washing in the dryer as we had had showers off and on all afternoon.
We watched some TV and I fell asleep not for long but I hope it hasn't taken the edge off and I can sleep when I go to bed. I am getting to the stage like when we came down here and so when I get on the plane I will sleep all the way to San Francisco - that would be nice.
Totty is still well and back to normal now.
WEATHER
Sunny, cloudy, heavy rain, sunny 23 degrees.
Wednesday, 2 April 2014
Wednesday
Looks like Totty is very much better now and had another good night last night.
I had a phone call from the vet again today asking how she was so they must have been as worried as I was.
Jon took his car in for a service this morning and I went to collect Margaret and we went to Gate Pa as I needed some knitting needles. I only bought one pair as they were five pounds!! I will have a look in the Red Cross later for the others.
We then went for a coffee before going out to McLaren Falls Park and we had a lovely walk around the lake. It is so lovely and peaceful up there.
I came home and made lunch for Jon and I and then went to the Red Cross to take some things that I had cleared out as they have been in my boot for a week. I managed to find two pairs of knitting needles for 50c - bargain! I had a chat with Sharon about the wedding she went to at the weekend and also saw Raewyn, another lady I used to work with.
I drove across to the Mount Red Cross to see Carol as I had two cushions in my car for her garden furniture and I also asked her if she could cut the bottom of a cotton dressing gown for me and run the machine along the hem. I don't want to have to pack my heavy dressing gown in my case as it will take up too much room but I will need a dressing gown in UK until our container arrives.
I then went to buy some contact lens solution and cancel my account with Spec Savers so they don't bother people with reminders. I bought a few things and also put a notice up on the supermarket board about Jon's car.
Jobs done I went home and we had a cup of tea.
We had a bbq tonight but we remembered to put on the mozzie spray before we went out. Another lovely evening.
We watched some TV and I did some knitting and then I rang my friend in the UK as she is going to let the builder in to our house as Heather can't sort out a time to fit in with him. We would like to get a quote so that we can start the work as soon as we can once we are back.
A quick drink and a read of the news online and now off to bed.
WEATHER
Sunny 23 degrees
I had a phone call from the vet again today asking how she was so they must have been as worried as I was.
Jon took his car in for a service this morning and I went to collect Margaret and we went to Gate Pa as I needed some knitting needles. I only bought one pair as they were five pounds!! I will have a look in the Red Cross later for the others.
We then went for a coffee before going out to McLaren Falls Park and we had a lovely walk around the lake. It is so lovely and peaceful up there.
I came home and made lunch for Jon and I and then went to the Red Cross to take some things that I had cleared out as they have been in my boot for a week. I managed to find two pairs of knitting needles for 50c - bargain! I had a chat with Sharon about the wedding she went to at the weekend and also saw Raewyn, another lady I used to work with.
I drove across to the Mount Red Cross to see Carol as I had two cushions in my car for her garden furniture and I also asked her if she could cut the bottom of a cotton dressing gown for me and run the machine along the hem. I don't want to have to pack my heavy dressing gown in my case as it will take up too much room but I will need a dressing gown in UK until our container arrives.
I then went to buy some contact lens solution and cancel my account with Spec Savers so they don't bother people with reminders. I bought a few things and also put a notice up on the supermarket board about Jon's car.
Jobs done I went home and we had a cup of tea.
We had a bbq tonight but we remembered to put on the mozzie spray before we went out. Another lovely evening.
We watched some TV and I did some knitting and then I rang my friend in the UK as she is going to let the builder in to our house as Heather can't sort out a time to fit in with him. We would like to get a quote so that we can start the work as soon as we can once we are back.
A quick drink and a read of the news online and now off to bed.
WEATHER
Sunny 23 degrees
Tuesday, 1 April 2014
Tuesday
Yeah! so nice to have a good sleep and wake in the morning and Totty was looking normal, happy, wagging her tail, no wee on the carpet and wanted to play - Phew!!!!
I got ready and went to my keep fit class after a short chat to Heather who wanted some information from her dad.
Really good class but very hot this morning. Not sure if it is because my hair is now longer but I am finding the classes very hot recently!
I stayed for a coffee and Diane arranged for us to go out for a lunch next Wednesday. I think that is four now. I have to keep such a close eye on the calendar at the moment or I forget what I am doing.
After class I went to buy some tea. Yes, we had run out and as I am only now buying what we need I have no stock.
I then went to the doctors surgery to ask for copies of out notes for the last five years. I hope they don't copy what I brought over with me as it would be a waste of paper, money and space.
I got back and Jon was still out, he went to hand in the notice on the house. When he got home he told me the agent said the owners will be sorry to see us leave.
I rang and booked a carpet cleaner to come and clean the bedroom and stair carpet on our last day here.
Jon put his car on Autotrader to sell and I sent a text to Sanje about my car. I also sent emails to a few people asking them to pass the word around about the washing machine and fridge as I really would like to get rid of them.
So, all in all a good morning.
I then did some housework as the agent will be bringing people round to see the house which is going to be a pain but unavoidable.
I went to my aqua aerobics class this afternoon which was really good again. Unfortunately, the sun went down behind the Mount at 4.30! As our clocks change next week it will be even earlier.
I went into the hot pools for a little while and chatted to the ladies and then got our for a shower before driving home.
Fortunately. I had made spag bol last night so not much to do. Our neighbour was having a bbq and it smelt lovely so I think we might have one tomorrow and use up some of the things I have in the freezer.
After dinner we watched TV and I did some knitting.
I am so happy that Totty is better, she looks a different dog now. The vet rang at lunchtime to say her blood tests were clear which is good but I still believe they are responsible for how she was but not much I can do about it, I am just glad it is over.
WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees
I got ready and went to my keep fit class after a short chat to Heather who wanted some information from her dad.
Really good class but very hot this morning. Not sure if it is because my hair is now longer but I am finding the classes very hot recently!
I stayed for a coffee and Diane arranged for us to go out for a lunch next Wednesday. I think that is four now. I have to keep such a close eye on the calendar at the moment or I forget what I am doing.
After class I went to buy some tea. Yes, we had run out and as I am only now buying what we need I have no stock.
I then went to the doctors surgery to ask for copies of out notes for the last five years. I hope they don't copy what I brought over with me as it would be a waste of paper, money and space.
I got back and Jon was still out, he went to hand in the notice on the house. When he got home he told me the agent said the owners will be sorry to see us leave.
I rang and booked a carpet cleaner to come and clean the bedroom and stair carpet on our last day here.
Jon put his car on Autotrader to sell and I sent a text to Sanje about my car. I also sent emails to a few people asking them to pass the word around about the washing machine and fridge as I really would like to get rid of them.
So, all in all a good morning.
I then did some housework as the agent will be bringing people round to see the house which is going to be a pain but unavoidable.
I went to my aqua aerobics class this afternoon which was really good again. Unfortunately, the sun went down behind the Mount at 4.30! As our clocks change next week it will be even earlier.
I went into the hot pools for a little while and chatted to the ladies and then got our for a shower before driving home.
Fortunately. I had made spag bol last night so not much to do. Our neighbour was having a bbq and it smelt lovely so I think we might have one tomorrow and use up some of the things I have in the freezer.
After dinner we watched TV and I did some knitting.
I am so happy that Totty is better, she looks a different dog now. The vet rang at lunchtime to say her blood tests were clear which is good but I still believe they are responsible for how she was but not much I can do about it, I am just glad it is over.
WEATHER
Sunny 25 degrees
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