Hi,
I rode home and collected Toby from Alex's house. His first day was good. He likes his new teacher and tonight Mike and I get to go to school to meet Mr Wilson. It's the "meet and greet" evening, so just to hear about what happens this year.
This morning we drove in because of the school meeting. Mike and Toby are a little hopeless in the mornings. At 7.30am Mike jumped in the shower. Oh dear. I despair. However, despite this, we made the bus with plenty of time to spare.
Another glorious day in Wellington. The wind has picked up though. More typical weather now.
Have a wonderful day.
Love,
Angela
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Chasing the bus
What with the first day 'n all, everyone was a bit slow off the mark, and getting Toby and Alex to their school bus was looking tight. I suspect that the bus company on the other hand, was looking to have a good start to the year and was running rigorously to the timetable, taking away our usual buffer of tardiness.
Our routine is to drive to the Wadestown bus stop, then leave the car outside the library and walk or cycle the rest of the way. But early on I decided that we should go for a bus stop closer to town to give us a bit more leeway. We followed a very slow Yaris on the way down the hill - but I couldn't complain because the Yaris also seemed to have a target on its front, with crazy drivers repeatedly hurtling at it on the wrong side of the road. Alas, though, as we reached the stop at the bottom of the hill, we sighted the bus collecting the last of its passengers and pulling away. "Any more stops, Toby?" "Yes, one more outside Wellington Girls, in a couple of blocks!" The race was on. Traffic was dense, and being fed by offramps from the motorway. But I weaved and juggled and got to within 2 cars of the bus as it pulled over for the last time. Toby and Alex were primed and ready, and leapt from the car even before I finished moving. But disaster! There was just one passenger to collect. They were on the bus quick-smart and the bus was pulling away within seconds of stopping.
So that was that. We were off to Mirimar.
I think most other parents were either taking their little darlings to school on their first day, or had also missed the bus, because there were hundreds of cars at school. And of course I was a 'driving to school' acolyte. So I managed to pull into the wrong driveway and create a little bit of havoc. Turns out the entrance you use outside of peak time is where the buses drop children off - and the gate is only wide enough for entry, or exit, but not both at the same time. Oh well. I've created far worse chaos driving Der Bus through villages in Italy, so not a problem.
So all's well that ends well - I'm at work, Toby and Alex are at school, the coffee is up to its adequate standard, and the sun is beaming in. Yay!
Our routine is to drive to the Wadestown bus stop, then leave the car outside the library and walk or cycle the rest of the way. But early on I decided that we should go for a bus stop closer to town to give us a bit more leeway. We followed a very slow Yaris on the way down the hill - but I couldn't complain because the Yaris also seemed to have a target on its front, with crazy drivers repeatedly hurtling at it on the wrong side of the road. Alas, though, as we reached the stop at the bottom of the hill, we sighted the bus collecting the last of its passengers and pulling away. "Any more stops, Toby?" "Yes, one more outside Wellington Girls, in a couple of blocks!" The race was on. Traffic was dense, and being fed by offramps from the motorway. But I weaved and juggled and got to within 2 cars of the bus as it pulled over for the last time. Toby and Alex were primed and ready, and leapt from the car even before I finished moving. But disaster! There was just one passenger to collect. They were on the bus quick-smart and the bus was pulling away within seconds of stopping.
So that was that. We were off to Mirimar.
I think most other parents were either taking their little darlings to school on their first day, or had also missed the bus, because there were hundreds of cars at school. And of course I was a 'driving to school' acolyte. So I managed to pull into the wrong driveway and create a little bit of havoc. Turns out the entrance you use outside of peak time is where the buses drop children off - and the gate is only wide enough for entry, or exit, but not both at the same time. Oh well. I've created far worse chaos driving Der Bus through villages in Italy, so not a problem.
So all's well that ends well - I'm at work, Toby and Alex are at school, the coffee is up to its adequate standard, and the sun is beaming in. Yay!
The Tuesday with no water skiing
Hi,
It was Toby's last day of summer school holidays. This morning (Wed) he seemed very happy to be getting ready for school. He has a male teacher this year - first time ever. Mr Wilson. Hopefully Toby does very well in his last year in Prep school.
Yesterday evening (Tues) we were all supposed to meet after work (Toby in town, Mike finishing work, me running late with a training session overrun) and drive to Evans Bay to meet Kara for some water skiing. The evening was perfect, but half of Wellington also thought the beach was a great idea. Mike and Toby sensibly went home to prepare for school the next day and I went to meet Kara. Turns out she had a crook neck and water skiing was off. But I went for a cup of tea to her place and caught up on loads of news.
Back home to get ready for bed. Slept for the second night in a row with the French doors in our room wide open. As an indicator of the sheer marvel that this represents, our doors have no catch on them to keep them open. Any breeze and they slam shut. They have been opened two nights in a row and exactly in the same position in the morning as I left them when I went to bed. Incredible! I love it!
A consequence of running around making sure Toby was ready and his bags sorted was I came to work with no shoes. I have been padding around in barefeet. And frankly, I like it! It is so hot. My only concern is the effect my naked feet might have on unsuspecting colleagues. I was in a meeting from 11 - 1pm and the colleague across the table looked under the desk and lost control. It produced giggles, but I am sure that was just masking her amazement when she glimpsed my feet. Perhaps she'll be sitting closer to my feet in the afternoon session we have together? I'll let you know.
I'll be thinking of Toby today. Hope you all have a wonderful day too.
Love,
Angela
It was Toby's last day of summer school holidays. This morning (Wed) he seemed very happy to be getting ready for school. He has a male teacher this year - first time ever. Mr Wilson. Hopefully Toby does very well in his last year in Prep school.
Yesterday evening (Tues) we were all supposed to meet after work (Toby in town, Mike finishing work, me running late with a training session overrun) and drive to Evans Bay to meet Kara for some water skiing. The evening was perfect, but half of Wellington also thought the beach was a great idea. Mike and Toby sensibly went home to prepare for school the next day and I went to meet Kara. Turns out she had a crook neck and water skiing was off. But I went for a cup of tea to her place and caught up on loads of news.
Back home to get ready for bed. Slept for the second night in a row with the French doors in our room wide open. As an indicator of the sheer marvel that this represents, our doors have no catch on them to keep them open. Any breeze and they slam shut. They have been opened two nights in a row and exactly in the same position in the morning as I left them when I went to bed. Incredible! I love it!
A consequence of running around making sure Toby was ready and his bags sorted was I came to work with no shoes. I have been padding around in barefeet. And frankly, I like it! It is so hot. My only concern is the effect my naked feet might have on unsuspecting colleagues. I was in a meeting from 11 - 1pm and the colleague across the table looked under the desk and lost control. It produced giggles, but I am sure that was just masking her amazement when she glimpsed my feet. Perhaps she'll be sitting closer to my feet in the afternoon session we have together? I'll let you know.
I'll be thinking of Toby today. Hope you all have a wonderful day too.
Love,
Angela
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
The Monday with nothing
Hi,
Mike managed to get Toby and Alex into the computer holiday programme for Monday and Tuesday so I don't need to work from home. Good really, as I have a training course Tues, Wed and Thurs (4 hours each day). It would have been tricky from home! It does mean late lunches at the sun trap though. 1pm is the time for the end of the first session. It is run from Sydney - hence the odd times.
Another BBQ last night - that's three evenings in a row. Unheard of weather.
We're off to go water skiing this evening with Kara. We haven't caught up with her in ages! Toby will be official photographer as he says he could water ski so long as he doesn't fall in. Okay. Official photographer it is then! Hopefully we'll get some good photos!
Another lovely day. But I took the bus in early (meeting a friend for breakfast) as we're busy this evening and I should get plenty of exercise trying to swim around after the boat. Hahahah.
Hope Karen and the girls get home today - she's stuck at Brisbane Airport waiting for a flight. I think the long weekend and atrocious weather means flights are chockablock.
Have a wonderful day. The weather here is stunning. You should all move here.
Love,
Angela
Mike managed to get Toby and Alex into the computer holiday programme for Monday and Tuesday so I don't need to work from home. Good really, as I have a training course Tues, Wed and Thurs (4 hours each day). It would have been tricky from home! It does mean late lunches at the sun trap though. 1pm is the time for the end of the first session. It is run from Sydney - hence the odd times.
Another BBQ last night - that's three evenings in a row. Unheard of weather.
 |
| Like your pini, Mike! |
We're off to go water skiing this evening with Kara. We haven't caught up with her in ages! Toby will be official photographer as he says he could water ski so long as he doesn't fall in. Okay. Official photographer it is then! Hopefully we'll get some good photos!
Another lovely day. But I took the bus in early (meeting a friend for breakfast) as we're busy this evening and I should get plenty of exercise trying to swim around after the boat. Hahahah.
Hope Karen and the girls get home today - she's stuck at Brisbane Airport waiting for a flight. I think the long weekend and atrocious weather means flights are chockablock.
Have a wonderful day. The weather here is stunning. You should all move here.
Love,
Angela
Monday, January 28, 2013
The weekend with glorious weather and Toby's return
Hi,
What a great weekend. Wow - can I have another, please? Mike and I went out for dinner on Friday night to Duck Creek at Pauatahanui. We ate outside in shorts and t-shirt until the sun set below the hills and it coincided perfectly with draining our drinks after our meal. Lovely food again. I like this place. And I got to drive fast with the roof down and sing loudly. Mike says if my raucous singing is the worst I can ever do to him, he has it pretty sweet. Aaawwww, shucks.
Back to Wellington to sort out the house for Toby's return. Really, just an exercise to keep me from getting far too excited. Then off at midnight to the airport. We watched his plane land (exciting footage - not!) and then he came out fairly quickly. He only had carry-on and I think he made a dash for the exit. We got lots of hugs and kisses. Thank you to the Kittos and Mum and Dad for looking after him. His ear was no problem on the flight and seems to have come right.
We all slept in nicely the next morning. Nothing was a rush. Alex arrived for a good long play. The only pressing thing was the fridge arriving between 3 and 5pm. It arrived closer to 5 than 3pm. But Mike and I had the old fridge emptied and Mike had it out on the patio before the new fridge came down from the street. Perfect. And now we have a lovely new fridge.
We went for a walk in the evening so Mike can break in his new tramping boots.
Sunday I went to Chaffers market with Vivienne. She bought fish off the boat that moors there. Such fun to watch the banter.
Then off to Yum Cha with John, Christine and wee Tom. It was very nice - hadn't been in Wellington for ages.
After Yum Cha we went out to see Sally and Andrew. We rode with Toby and his new bike (Christmas present) up the river.
Then home for a BBQ dinner. Two in a row. I could get used to this. Also found a lemon beagle pup that had escaped from our neighbours across the way. Went in to return him (his name is Hunter and he is very cute - they only got him on Friday!) and said hello to a chap called Christie. At least I think that was what he said. With his South African accent it was a bit tricky.
Toby is back to school on Wednesday. Hopefully he gets into the last two days of the computer course. Otherwise we'll be working from home.
Have a wonderful week!
Love,
Angela
What a great weekend. Wow - can I have another, please? Mike and I went out for dinner on Friday night to Duck Creek at Pauatahanui. We ate outside in shorts and t-shirt until the sun set below the hills and it coincided perfectly with draining our drinks after our meal. Lovely food again. I like this place. And I got to drive fast with the roof down and sing loudly. Mike says if my raucous singing is the worst I can ever do to him, he has it pretty sweet. Aaawwww, shucks.
Back to Wellington to sort out the house for Toby's return. Really, just an exercise to keep me from getting far too excited. Then off at midnight to the airport. We watched his plane land (exciting footage - not!) and then he came out fairly quickly. He only had carry-on and I think he made a dash for the exit. We got lots of hugs and kisses. Thank you to the Kittos and Mum and Dad for looking after him. His ear was no problem on the flight and seems to have come right.
 |
| Jet setting Toby arrives in Wellington |
We all slept in nicely the next morning. Nothing was a rush. Alex arrived for a good long play. The only pressing thing was the fridge arriving between 3 and 5pm. It arrived closer to 5 than 3pm. But Mike and I had the old fridge emptied and Mike had it out on the patio before the new fridge came down from the street. Perfect. And now we have a lovely new fridge.
We went for a walk in the evening so Mike can break in his new tramping boots.
Sunday I went to Chaffers market with Vivienne. She bought fish off the boat that moors there. Such fun to watch the banter.
 |
| That's my fish! |
After Yum Cha we went out to see Sally and Andrew. We rode with Toby and his new bike (Christmas present) up the river.
 |
| Nice new bike, Toby! |
 |
| Enjoying the view |
Then home for a BBQ dinner. Two in a row. I could get used to this. Also found a lemon beagle pup that had escaped from our neighbours across the way. Went in to return him (his name is Hunter and he is very cute - they only got him on Friday!) and said hello to a chap called Christie. At least I think that was what he said. With his South African accent it was a bit tricky.
Toby is back to school on Wednesday. Hopefully he gets into the last two days of the computer course. Otherwise we'll be working from home.
Have a wonderful week!
Love,
Angela
Friday, January 25, 2013
The Thursday with nothing
Hi,
Mike's big day went really well. Apart from his migraine he got halfway through his presentation. He made it through and then went home to sleep it off. Hence we never went out for a celebratory dinner. But today is a gorgeous day and Mike is back at work and we're going out for tea after work. Yay!
Then we'll come home and make sure the place looks nice for Toby's return. Then at midnight we're off to the airport to collect him. I am so excited.
This weekend is very relaxing. The only thing we have planned is Yum Cha at 11.30am on Sunday. Let me know if you want to come along.
Have a fantastic weekend.
Love,
Angela
Mike's big day went really well. Apart from his migraine he got halfway through his presentation. He made it through and then went home to sleep it off. Hence we never went out for a celebratory dinner. But today is a gorgeous day and Mike is back at work and we're going out for tea after work. Yay!
Then we'll come home and make sure the place looks nice for Toby's return. Then at midnight we're off to the airport to collect him. I am so excited.
This weekend is very relaxing. The only thing we have planned is Yum Cha at 11.30am on Sunday. Let me know if you want to come along.
Have a fantastic weekend.
Love,
Angela
Thursday, January 24, 2013
The Wednesday with nothing for me
Hi,
My ride home was hot and hard again - but perhaps, almost imperceptibly, a wee bit easier than the day before. Another good ride home today and tomorrow should put me in good stead for 5 days next week and then maybe I'll be back to where I was pre-Christmas. That will leave three weeks to train for the duathalon. Oh. Better do better for the Round Taupo.
I got home and had a bath and then went grocery shopping. Without Toby around, our lives are boring, aren't they? I heard from Toby on Wednesday morning and he was miserable. His earache is giving him a lot of gyp and he is sitting around doing nothing. He even slept during the day, Ma said. Wow! Poor kid. I can't wait to see him - tomorrow!
I'll ride home tonight and shower and change and Mike will drive home and get me and take me to dinner. I fancy the Front Room in Waikanae Beach. We haven't been there for ages and I like it. I selected that based on the good weather and a good drive in the wee green car. But it is supposed to rain today. So we may not get out quite that far.
Mike has a big day at work today. Hopefully the stress slackens off after today and he can relax - until the next big one!
Have a marvellous day.
Love,
Angela
My ride home was hot and hard again - but perhaps, almost imperceptibly, a wee bit easier than the day before. Another good ride home today and tomorrow should put me in good stead for 5 days next week and then maybe I'll be back to where I was pre-Christmas. That will leave three weeks to train for the duathalon. Oh. Better do better for the Round Taupo.
I got home and had a bath and then went grocery shopping. Without Toby around, our lives are boring, aren't they? I heard from Toby on Wednesday morning and he was miserable. His earache is giving him a lot of gyp and he is sitting around doing nothing. He even slept during the day, Ma said. Wow! Poor kid. I can't wait to see him - tomorrow!
I'll ride home tonight and shower and change and Mike will drive home and get me and take me to dinner. I fancy the Front Room in Waikanae Beach. We haven't been there for ages and I like it. I selected that based on the good weather and a good drive in the wee green car. But it is supposed to rain today. So we may not get out quite that far.
Mike has a big day at work today. Hopefully the stress slackens off after today and he can relax - until the next big one!
Have a marvellous day.
Love,
Angela
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
The Tuesday with my last Cubs planning session
Hi,
Oooo - riding on Karen's exercise bike for thirty minutes a day is no compensation for the real thing. I rode home for the first time in over a month and I was easily four minutes slower than my fastest time. I was pathetic. It didn't help that it was so hot and I had no water. Hahahah. I got home and raced into the shower before heading to the Cubs planning meeting.
We had a good session. I handed over all my stuff. Yay! Back home and I was tempted to drive anywhere in the wee green car. I wanted to nip home and collect Mike and go for a drive. But he wasn't home from work yet (this was 9.30pm!) so I went home and had a bath. Went to bed. Mike still not home.
Eventually he got home. It might have been 11pm I guess. And he stayed up reading until 2am! He'll be wanting an earlier night tonight.
Toby home in 2 days! I am excited.
Okay. Time to get stuck in.
Have a great day!
Love,
Angela
Oooo - riding on Karen's exercise bike for thirty minutes a day is no compensation for the real thing. I rode home for the first time in over a month and I was easily four minutes slower than my fastest time. I was pathetic. It didn't help that it was so hot and I had no water. Hahahah. I got home and raced into the shower before heading to the Cubs planning meeting.
We had a good session. I handed over all my stuff. Yay! Back home and I was tempted to drive anywhere in the wee green car. I wanted to nip home and collect Mike and go for a drive. But he wasn't home from work yet (this was 9.30pm!) so I went home and had a bath. Went to bed. Mike still not home.
Eventually he got home. It might have been 11pm I guess. And he stayed up reading until 2am! He'll be wanting an earlier night tonight.
Toby home in 2 days! I am excited.
Okay. Time to get stuck in.
Have a great day!
Love,
Angela
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
The weekend with no Mike or Toby and a long weekend at that
Hi,
I left work at 1730 on Friday in the Corolla around the time Mike and Andrew were getting on the ferry to head to Nelson. I got caught in traffic around Paekakariki (there are road works there at the moment) but it wasn't too bad. I was at the Levin showgrounds at 1930 (after shopping at Waikanae). I cleaned out Victor's horse float while Christine put Victor to bed.
I had a good sleep despite being on the wrong side of warm (that is, I was a bit cold!) and we woke up at 6am and fought against the warmth of the sleeping bags before venturing forth. We got Victor ready and had time for a wee wander around. I watched a bit of the sheep dog trials.
At 11am it was competition time and Christine got two fourths and two thirds. Not too shabby for her first event for the year. Well done to both of them.
Victor looked good with his ribbons.
We tidied up and headed home - I would have been home by 1600 on Saturday. I watched tennis and went to bed.
Sunday was a day of rest. Well, no. Not really. I tidied up the house after the pre-Christmas frantic packing had turned the place upside-down. It finally looked okay. Not embarrassing at all for people to see when they pop in. Phew!
I went out for dinner Sunday night to Boulcott Street Bistro with Jackie and Bron (Josh's mother and Aunt) and it was as good as ever there. They both loved it too. I enjoyed their company. Jackie did mention that she'd never heard me talk so much. Guess that's what happens when Mike is not around - I have to talk!
Monday I was up early to meet other Tabors for breakfast at Maccas. Yum! They were off tramping the Queen Charlotte all this week. They have the best weather lined up - so lucky. Wish I was there too. We walked briefly around the waterfront before I dropped them at the Interislander.
Home to read before heading out to buy a fridge. Yay! Should get delivered this weekend! My mother will be so pleased that she won't need to clean the fridge out if she comes in the next few months. Hahahah. Yes - I may be trying to lure her here. Also bought a bike for Toby's Christmas. I hope he likes it. Time for lots of family riding now.
Back home to iron (yawn - how boring) and watch Coast (a documentary on the British coastline). Then out to collect Mike and Andrew off the ferry at 2200 last night. Another yawn for the late night. They had a ball. I am sure you'll hear more from them!
A short working week. Toby is home late Friday night. Yay!!
Have a wonderful week.
Love.
Angela
I left work at 1730 on Friday in the Corolla around the time Mike and Andrew were getting on the ferry to head to Nelson. I got caught in traffic around Paekakariki (there are road works there at the moment) but it wasn't too bad. I was at the Levin showgrounds at 1930 (after shopping at Waikanae). I cleaned out Victor's horse float while Christine put Victor to bed.
I had a good sleep despite being on the wrong side of warm (that is, I was a bit cold!) and we woke up at 6am and fought against the warmth of the sleeping bags before venturing forth. We got Victor ready and had time for a wee wander around. I watched a bit of the sheep dog trials.
At 11am it was competition time and Christine got two fourths and two thirds. Not too shabby for her first event for the year. Well done to both of them.
 |
| Caught this horse jumping perfectly |
 |
| Sheep dog trials were fun |
Victor looked good with his ribbons.
 |
| Time to show off, Victor! |
Sunday was a day of rest. Well, no. Not really. I tidied up the house after the pre-Christmas frantic packing had turned the place upside-down. It finally looked okay. Not embarrassing at all for people to see when they pop in. Phew!
I went out for dinner Sunday night to Boulcott Street Bistro with Jackie and Bron (Josh's mother and Aunt) and it was as good as ever there. They both loved it too. I enjoyed their company. Jackie did mention that she'd never heard me talk so much. Guess that's what happens when Mike is not around - I have to talk!
Monday I was up early to meet other Tabors for breakfast at Maccas. Yum! They were off tramping the Queen Charlotte all this week. They have the best weather lined up - so lucky. Wish I was there too. We walked briefly around the waterfront before I dropped them at the Interislander.
Home to read before heading out to buy a fridge. Yay! Should get delivered this weekend! My mother will be so pleased that she won't need to clean the fridge out if she comes in the next few months. Hahahah. Yes - I may be trying to lure her here. Also bought a bike for Toby's Christmas. I hope he likes it. Time for lots of family riding now.
Back home to iron (yawn - how boring) and watch Coast (a documentary on the British coastline). Then out to collect Mike and Andrew off the ferry at 2200 last night. Another yawn for the late night. They had a ball. I am sure you'll hear more from them!
A short working week. Toby is home late Friday night. Yay!!
Have a wonderful week.
Love.
Angela
Friday, January 18, 2013
The Thursday with lots of work
Hi,
Got a bit busy with work and ended up taking the bus all the way home and got drenched in the process. By the time I got home, I could see sunshine. The weather was mad yesterday.
Metservice.com said it would rain at midday. WindGuru.cz said it would rain at 3pm. It rained at 3pm. I think I will pay more attention to WindGuru from now on.
Mike is all packed for his weekend of adventure with Andrew mountain biking in Nelson. He's on the ferry tonight at 6.30pm. I'm off to Levin to help Christine with her horse event. Should be fun. We get to sleep in the horse float again. Cool!
Spoke to Toby last night and he is enjoying Mum and Dad's house. Time in the pool, movies, shopping. He won't want to come home. They are off to the Gold Coast today for a week. Mum has booked them all into a resort there. Paradise Resort. Looks great to me!
Right - time to get stuck in!
Have a wonderful weekend. Ours is a long weekend here in Wellington.
Love,
Angela
Got a bit busy with work and ended up taking the bus all the way home and got drenched in the process. By the time I got home, I could see sunshine. The weather was mad yesterday.
Metservice.com said it would rain at midday. WindGuru.cz said it would rain at 3pm. It rained at 3pm. I think I will pay more attention to WindGuru from now on.
Mike is all packed for his weekend of adventure with Andrew mountain biking in Nelson. He's on the ferry tonight at 6.30pm. I'm off to Levin to help Christine with her horse event. Should be fun. We get to sleep in the horse float again. Cool!
Spoke to Toby last night and he is enjoying Mum and Dad's house. Time in the pool, movies, shopping. He won't want to come home. They are off to the Gold Coast today for a week. Mum has booked them all into a resort there. Paradise Resort. Looks great to me!
Right - time to get stuck in!
Have a wonderful weekend. Ours is a long weekend here in Wellington.
Love,
Angela
Thursday, January 17, 2013
The Wednesday back at work
Hi,
Made it through the day yesterday and then met Sally and Andrew after work and caught the bus around to Courtney Place. We went into the Big Bad Wolf (Big Bad Wolf) but they were only serving cold food at that time of the day (the pig goes on at 5am and gets carved up at midday and when it runs out, they serve pate). So we wandered around the corner to Joe's Garage and I ordered the iced coffee. Had a chicken Caesar salad (scrumptious) and then Andrew had an iced coffee too.
Sally and I left on the bus and Andrew went to tramping club to meet Mike. I got home and jumped in the car and drove up to Paraparaumu Beach to see the beached, dead, Sperm Whale.
The local iwi were just carving off the jaw bone. It came free as I watched. The sea was red with the blood and it was with conflicting emotions that I surveyed the scene. I am so pleased I decided to drive up to see it. The sun was setting in a fiery orange globe in the background and I got to sing all the way there and back. I was concerned I might not find the whale, given I have no idea of the geography of Paraparaumu. But, it wasn't hard to find. As you might imagine. And it generated a lot of interest as the roads were parked up.
This morning is gorgeousness itself here in Wellington. But, the forecast assures me, that is just a false sense of security and the thunder and rain and wind is coming. Nice. Maybe around the time I ride home, eh?
Have a fantastic day!
Love,
Angela
Made it through the day yesterday and then met Sally and Andrew after work and caught the bus around to Courtney Place. We went into the Big Bad Wolf (Big Bad Wolf) but they were only serving cold food at that time of the day (the pig goes on at 5am and gets carved up at midday and when it runs out, they serve pate). So we wandered around the corner to Joe's Garage and I ordered the iced coffee. Had a chicken Caesar salad (scrumptious) and then Andrew had an iced coffee too.
 |
| Reminds me of our overdoses on Café liégeois all around France |
 |
| Big crowd watching |
 |
| Big animal |
This morning is gorgeousness itself here in Wellington. But, the forecast assures me, that is just a false sense of security and the thunder and rain and wind is coming. Nice. Maybe around the time I ride home, eh?
Have a fantastic day!
Love,
Angela
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
The Tuesday with me sick
Hi,
Weird, eh? I got up and felt a bit sick yesterday and then got really sick. So I spent the day in bed recovering. Boring, eh? Well, apart from watching most of the day 2 action in the Australian Open. Hahah. There was a benefit to being sick yesterday.
My ride in this morning felt weird. I had no energy after pedalling for all of ten seconds. Even downhill. Mike beat me.
We're out to dinner tonight with Sally and Andrew. We're going to try Big Bad Wolf on Wakefield Street. It has had good reviews.
Spoke to wee Toby last night and they are all good, despite Abby losing a front tooth in the pool yesterday. Ouch! Poor wee girl. Mum and Dad will need a holiday themselves after they have all gone. But it'll certainly keep them busy for a while.
Okay - time to get stuck into work. Have a great day!
Love,
Angela
Weird, eh? I got up and felt a bit sick yesterday and then got really sick. So I spent the day in bed recovering. Boring, eh? Well, apart from watching most of the day 2 action in the Australian Open. Hahah. There was a benefit to being sick yesterday.
My ride in this morning felt weird. I had no energy after pedalling for all of ten seconds. Even downhill. Mike beat me.
We're out to dinner tonight with Sally and Andrew. We're going to try Big Bad Wolf on Wakefield Street. It has had good reviews.
Spoke to wee Toby last night and they are all good, despite Abby losing a front tooth in the pool yesterday. Ouch! Poor wee girl. Mum and Dad will need a holiday themselves after they have all gone. But it'll certainly keep them busy for a while.
Okay - time to get stuck into work. Have a great day!
Love,
Angela
Monday, January 14, 2013
The weekend back in Wellington
Hi,
You would not believe the weather out there. It isn't cold at all, but boy, is it windy and wet. Might be low mist too. At 7.30am it was hosing down and we couldn't see the other side of the valley. So we caught the bus in this morning. A poor start to 2013 because not only does my body think it is 6.30am now, but the bus always sends me to sleep. Double whammy!
The weekend was great. Scott kindly drove me to the airport at a horrible hour. I woke at 5.30am Sydney time and we left at 6.30am. At the airport within 50 minutes. Amazing service - ta Scott. I was insulated from the forecast 40C heat by efficient airport air conditioning. The flight was absolutely fine - I watched a documentary on Paul Kelly and then listened to some music. Before I knew it I was in Wellington.
Mike picked me up and we dropped in to see John and Christine on the way home. Then home and Mike cooked up an amazing dinner for me. It was a replica of the Friday night meal Mike had in Waikanae. So, despite not being there on Friday myself, I enjoyed most of the benefits on Saturday night with Mike. I am loved.
Sunday morning I meant to wake up early to get back into Wellington time. But, ummmm, I ended up waking up at 8.50am. Oh dear. Off to Vivienne's for lunch (meeting John at the supermarket on the way) and a great meal. Sally and Andrew were there too. No kids (Benjamin is still in Germany and Toby is still in Australia).
Back home and an attempt at tidying before ironing (yawn) and bed.
Work this week. What a shock eh? Toby is off to the Sunshine Coast this evening. Lucky him. Wish we were all there too.
Have a wonderful day.
Love,
Angela
You would not believe the weather out there. It isn't cold at all, but boy, is it windy and wet. Might be low mist too. At 7.30am it was hosing down and we couldn't see the other side of the valley. So we caught the bus in this morning. A poor start to 2013 because not only does my body think it is 6.30am now, but the bus always sends me to sleep. Double whammy!
The weekend was great. Scott kindly drove me to the airport at a horrible hour. I woke at 5.30am Sydney time and we left at 6.30am. At the airport within 50 minutes. Amazing service - ta Scott. I was insulated from the forecast 40C heat by efficient airport air conditioning. The flight was absolutely fine - I watched a documentary on Paul Kelly and then listened to some music. Before I knew it I was in Wellington.
Mike picked me up and we dropped in to see John and Christine on the way home. Then home and Mike cooked up an amazing dinner for me. It was a replica of the Friday night meal Mike had in Waikanae. So, despite not being there on Friday myself, I enjoyed most of the benefits on Saturday night with Mike. I am loved.
Sunday morning I meant to wake up early to get back into Wellington time. But, ummmm, I ended up waking up at 8.50am. Oh dear. Off to Vivienne's for lunch (meeting John at the supermarket on the way) and a great meal. Sally and Andrew were there too. No kids (Benjamin is still in Germany and Toby is still in Australia).
Back home and an attempt at tidying before ironing (yawn) and bed.
Work this week. What a shock eh? Toby is off to the Sunshine Coast this evening. Lucky him. Wish we were all there too.
Have a wonderful day.
Love,
Angela
Saturday, January 12, 2013
The last Saturday in Sydney
Hi,
The play we went to was fantastic. Imogen and the Pirates, by a children's theatre called Marian Street Theatre. We had front row seats because Abby likes to be in the thick of the action. The kids never even spat on me. Choice.
Then off to Sushi Bay for some lunch/tea at Rouse Hill.
Up early this morning (yawn) to get to the airport. Home time for me. See you in Wellington soon. Escaping the 42C forecast today. Going to... Karen says the forecast in Wellington is pants. Oh.
Love,
Angela
The play we went to was fantastic. Imogen and the Pirates, by a children's theatre called Marian Street Theatre. We had front row seats because Abby likes to be in the thick of the action. The kids never even spat on me. Choice.
 |
| Waiting for the doors to open |
Up early this morning (yawn) to get to the airport. Home time for me. See you in Wellington soon. Escaping the 42C forecast today. Going to... Karen says the forecast in Wellington is pants. Oh.
Love,
Angela
Friday, January 11, 2013
Shower
I'm going in the shower.
:-)
Hahahah. Scotty thinks I always procrastinate before I go in the shower. Karen asked if I was going to blog about it first. So I am!
:-)
Hahahah. Scotty thinks I always procrastinate before I go in the shower. Karen asked if I was going to blog about it first. So I am!
The Friday with my last day in Sydney
Hi,
Going to be warm here again today. 35 today and the same tomorrow. Might make for a hot ride into the airport with my luggage tomorrow morning.
Karen has Fridays off, so we're off to a play for the kids today. I need to pack so I'm ready for the trip into town super early tomorrow.
Last night we cranked out the Wii Karaoke and we sang for ages. Karen and I did a duet. If you can count laughing and snorting through a song as singing. Tyler scored over a million points on one song (Love Story by Taylor Swift). I think Karen and I got to 76,000 points on "Love is a Battlefield" by Pat Benetar. Just to give you some idea of our prowess. That Pat Benetar must be an exceptional singer - the only reason we couldn't hit her notes, obviously. Her, and Pink. Our version of "So What" was also pretty dire. I think Tyler and Abby appreciate my enthusiasm for singing, but not my execution. Well, Tyler did say I was killing her at one stage. Perhaps not quite the execution she had in mind.
Have a wonderful day. Can't believe I am back to work on Monday. Aaarrgghhh. Toby is off to Brisbane on Monday with Karen, Tyler and Abby to see Mum and Dad for about ten days. They should have a ball!
Love,
Angela
Going to be warm here again today. 35 today and the same tomorrow. Might make for a hot ride into the airport with my luggage tomorrow morning.
Karen has Fridays off, so we're off to a play for the kids today. I need to pack so I'm ready for the trip into town super early tomorrow.
 |
| Tyler can sing - unlike me and Karen |
Last night we cranked out the Wii Karaoke and we sang for ages. Karen and I did a duet. If you can count laughing and snorting through a song as singing. Tyler scored over a million points on one song (Love Story by Taylor Swift). I think Karen and I got to 76,000 points on "Love is a Battlefield" by Pat Benetar. Just to give you some idea of our prowess. That Pat Benetar must be an exceptional singer - the only reason we couldn't hit her notes, obviously. Her, and Pink. Our version of "So What" was also pretty dire. I think Tyler and Abby appreciate my enthusiasm for singing, but not my execution. Well, Tyler did say I was killing her at one stage. Perhaps not quite the execution she had in mind.
Have a wonderful day. Can't believe I am back to work on Monday. Aaarrgghhh. Toby is off to Brisbane on Monday with Karen, Tyler and Abby to see Mum and Dad for about ten days. They should have a ball!
Love,
Angela
Thursday, January 10, 2013
The Thursday with Lollipop Playland
Hi,
Cooler weather today - very pleasant outside in my t-shirt. We've just got back from Lollipop Playland where I now know Toby is far too old for indoor playgrounds now. He was bored within 15 minutes. Hardly gave me any time to read my book. Grrrr. Hahahah. Still, between hot chips and drinks I managed to get 2 hours out of it.
Last night Karen and I watched a movie with the kids in Karen and Scott's bed. We watched the Katy Perry movie. It wasn't too bad.
Home to relax and hopefully read a bit more of the book I am on. Karen bought the last two in a series we have been reading and I am running out of time to finish them before Saturday morning. The first one is due out in a movie in March. Might try and watch it with Karen then. The first book is called Beautiful Creatures and was the first book I bought for Karen after she read the Twilight series. I wanted to keep encouraging her to read - and it worked! Not that I can take any credit. Jeepers - I have Stephanie Meyers to thank for that.
Have a great day. Or, hope you had a great day!
Love,
Angela
Cooler weather today - very pleasant outside in my t-shirt. We've just got back from Lollipop Playland where I now know Toby is far too old for indoor playgrounds now. He was bored within 15 minutes. Hardly gave me any time to read my book. Grrrr. Hahahah. Still, between hot chips and drinks I managed to get 2 hours out of it.
 |
| Good fun - for Abby and Tyler |
 |
| Lucky they have a big bed |
Have a great day. Or, hope you had a great day!
Love,
Angela
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
The Wednesday with cooler weather
Hi,
The air conditioner stayed off all day - amazing. A breeze and mid twenties meant it was quite pleasant today. The kids still played in the pool though - not me. Nowhere near warm enough. Hahah. I can swim like that in New Zealand if I really want to.
Max came over to join us for a few hours this morning. He gets on well with Toby because he loves playing computer games. I think he will now join Toby, Duncan and Emerson on the Minecraft server from time to time.
We all went out to dinner last night across the road at Nunzio's restaurant. The food was a bit bland, but pleasant enough. The air conditioner was almost keeping up with the 40C temperatures.
There were some failures at translations. I sat across the table from Justin (husband of a friend of Karen's) and eventually he figured out I was Mike's wife (I mentioned him a few times I guess). We talked about motorcycles and then I said "Mike's Dad has vintage motorcycles". Justin was beginning to glaze over by now, but all of a sudden he jerked awake again and said "Who?". So I said "Mike's Dad". Justin looked concerned and stared at Karen. And then he said "Mike's dead?". I was now confused. But Karen handily translated for us explaining that Mike wasn't dead but Mike's Dad had vintage motorcycles.
Down at the other end of the table, Max was talking to Toby and then I heard him say "Who is Ebby?" to Toby. Hahah. That would be "Abby".
Then I said we could text Max. And Scott heard Tex-Mex so he started a conversation about a dreadful Text-Mex restaurant he thought we all wanted to go to.
I think I may need to return to New Zealand so I can be amongst people that understand me.
Hope your week is going marvellously.
Love,
Angela
The air conditioner stayed off all day - amazing. A breeze and mid twenties meant it was quite pleasant today. The kids still played in the pool though - not me. Nowhere near warm enough. Hahah. I can swim like that in New Zealand if I really want to.
 |
| Tyler, Abby and Toby in the pool - again |
Max came over to join us for a few hours this morning. He gets on well with Toby because he loves playing computer games. I think he will now join Toby, Duncan and Emerson on the Minecraft server from time to time.
We all went out to dinner last night across the road at Nunzio's restaurant. The food was a bit bland, but pleasant enough. The air conditioner was almost keeping up with the 40C temperatures.
There were some failures at translations. I sat across the table from Justin (husband of a friend of Karen's) and eventually he figured out I was Mike's wife (I mentioned him a few times I guess). We talked about motorcycles and then I said "Mike's Dad has vintage motorcycles". Justin was beginning to glaze over by now, but all of a sudden he jerked awake again and said "Who?". So I said "Mike's Dad". Justin looked concerned and stared at Karen. And then he said "Mike's dead?". I was now confused. But Karen handily translated for us explaining that Mike wasn't dead but Mike's Dad had vintage motorcycles.
Down at the other end of the table, Max was talking to Toby and then I heard him say "Who is Ebby?" to Toby. Hahah. That would be "Abby".
Then I said we could text Max. And Scott heard Tex-Mex so he started a conversation about a dreadful Text-Mex restaurant he thought we all wanted to go to.
I think I may need to return to New Zealand so I can be amongst people that understand me.
Hope your week is going marvellously.
Love,
Angela
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
The Tuesday with 43C in Sydney
Hi,
Being cocooned inside with the air conditioner on is cheating a bit when it is reportedly 43C outside. Mind you, I believe it. I went out to pull the recycle bin up and my feet were burning on the driveway. Ouch. I rode the exercise bike for thirty minutes and then hopped in the pool. The kids have been in and out of the pool all day. The wee girl from next door also came over for quite a bit of time.
Tyler split her lip last night around 5.30pm in the pool. It looks horrible but her teeth seem to have escaped any damage.
Karen is due home fairly early this afternoon. And Scott can't possibly work when it is this hot either, so we might see him early-ish too.
Living on ice blocks and iced coffee. Hahahah. We're off to the Italian restaurant over the road this evening. Means we don't have to prepare any dinner. Good option, Karen.
Love,
Angela
Being cocooned inside with the air conditioner on is cheating a bit when it is reportedly 43C outside. Mind you, I believe it. I went out to pull the recycle bin up and my feet were burning on the driveway. Ouch. I rode the exercise bike for thirty minutes and then hopped in the pool. The kids have been in and out of the pool all day. The wee girl from next door also came over for quite a bit of time.
Tyler split her lip last night around 5.30pm in the pool. It looks horrible but her teeth seem to have escaped any damage.
 |
| Nice scabby bottom lip, Tyler. |
Karen is due home fairly early this afternoon. And Scott can't possibly work when it is this hot either, so we might see him early-ish too.
Living on ice blocks and iced coffee. Hahahah. We're off to the Italian restaurant over the road this evening. Means we don't have to prepare any dinner. Good option, Karen.
Love,
Angela
Monday, January 7, 2013
The Monday in Sydney with a movie
Hi,
Karen went back to work today (and Scott was already back at work last Friday!) so I was looking after the kids. We had breakfast and I took Abby to the doctors to check her cough (she now has medicine but seems to be okay). Then we were off to Castle Towers to see a movie (Parental Guidance - a little ho hum but I did laugh out loud a few times).
Before going to the movie, the kids helped me buy some work pants. The woman assistant was very helpful and the kids made helpful comments too. It was a bit of fun.
The kids were starving (again) and we had McDonalds before the movie. Then we ate junk at the movie. Then we had Yum Cha after the movie. It was a food extravaganza day!
Back home now and chilling out in front of the television. I sense the need to read a lot soon.
Have a great day.
Love,
Angela
Karen went back to work today (and Scott was already back at work last Friday!) so I was looking after the kids. We had breakfast and I took Abby to the doctors to check her cough (she now has medicine but seems to be okay). Then we were off to Castle Towers to see a movie (Parental Guidance - a little ho hum but I did laugh out loud a few times).
Before going to the movie, the kids helped me buy some work pants. The woman assistant was very helpful and the kids made helpful comments too. It was a bit of fun.
 |
| Pre-movie Maccas |
The kids were starving (again) and we had McDonalds before the movie. Then we ate junk at the movie. Then we had Yum Cha after the movie. It was a food extravaganza day!
 |
| I tried to help Tyler eat all those green veges! |
 |
| Washed down with Sprite - note the retro can |
Back home now and chilling out in front of the television. I sense the need to read a lot soon.
Have a great day.
Love,
Angela
Sunday, January 6, 2013
The weekend in Sydney
Hi,
Some warm weather kicking in again. Most of Australia is sizzling in a heatwave - apart from Sydney. Sydney is just hot, not sizzling. Although despite the temperature saying 29C for Sydney on Saturday, I think it felt a lot more like 35C out here. Tuesday is forecast to be 38C. Ouch! A day at home in the new wee pool I think.
Mike is now safely back in Wellington and the house is safe and sound. Saturday afternoon I dropped him off at Blacktown train station and he went to the airport. He called me at 10.30pm Australian time and was home already.
The kids played in the pool yesterday afternoon as well.
The kids also played with Dr Dreadful - a strange skull that you fill with powder from sachets and eat the results. This was bubbling brains (tasted an awful lot like sherbert).
Sunday is going to be hot here too. Karen goes back to work tomorrow go we'll relax at home with the air conditioner going flat out. And maybe some more pool time!
Have a great day!
Love,
Angela
Some warm weather kicking in again. Most of Australia is sizzling in a heatwave - apart from Sydney. Sydney is just hot, not sizzling. Although despite the temperature saying 29C for Sydney on Saturday, I think it felt a lot more like 35C out here. Tuesday is forecast to be 38C. Ouch! A day at home in the new wee pool I think.
Mike is now safely back in Wellington and the house is safe and sound. Saturday afternoon I dropped him off at Blacktown train station and he went to the airport. He called me at 10.30pm Australian time and was home already.
The kids played in the pool yesterday afternoon as well.
 |
| Under the roof away from the strong sun |
The kids also played with Dr Dreadful - a strange skull that you fill with powder from sachets and eat the results. This was bubbling brains (tasted an awful lot like sherbert).
 |
| Tyler tastes some brains! |
Have a great day!
Love,
Angela
Friday, January 4, 2013
The New Years on the Central Coast
Hi,
We have had a fabulous time on the central coast (about 1 hour north of Sydney) at Scott's mother's house. Judes and Len have looked after us very well.
We got here on Sunday after a great drive up. Mike and I drove the kids and we sang all the way. Made it go very fast. Karen and Scott followed behind in the second car - about an hour behind in the end.
We nipped into the local shopping centre for some supplies - Mike now has some really great undies. Hahahah. The brand we were after were not there, but I found a great pair that looked like leopard skin pattern. Scary. So scary that I had to buy them!
Judes had prepared a magnificent BBQ dinner that Scott cooked up. Toby asked for seconds!
Up early the next day for a walk along the beach. Mike went for a run. Loads of bluebottles washed up. The day was not quite warm enough for me to swim. I did have my togs on because the last time I did this I ended up swimming in my clothes!
We bought loads of seafood from the fish co-op and cooked a great BBQ lunch of salmon, calamari and prawns. So delicious!
New Years Eve was spent wandering over to the The Entrance and catching up with friends of Karen and Scott's. Then walking into The Entrance proper for fish 'n' chips. At 9pm we found a great position at the apex of the bridge and watched the fireworks. I think Tyler may have videoed the entire 15 minutes on her phone.
We walked back to the car and drove slowly home with the others doing the exact same thing. In fact, one thing I am recalling from this holiday is that there are so many more people living here than in New Zealand. Everyone is doing what you're doing. And yet, if you went to the next beach, there would be just as many people doing it there too!
Once back home, everyone stayed up - even the kids. The adults (besides me) played Phase 10 while I watched the build up to the big event in Sydney on TV. Kisses all round at midnight. I think the kids were underwhelmed by it all.
New Years Day we went to the beach. It was going to be a hot day so we left early so we'd be back before it got too hot. I got to drive Len's fantastic Toyota Land Cruiser so we could all fit in one car to the beach (and I was the only person in the house capable of driving after the New Years excesses. What a great car! Loads of space, loads of power, great visibility. I wish I had a reason to need one!
The beach was great fun. Mike went for a run while I went swimming with the kids. Scotty joined us after his coffee. Toby had a ball jumping the surf waves - it was the first time he has ever spent ages doing it and enjoying it. I loved seeing his face alight with joy - even after a wave dumped him into the sand! When Mike got back from his run, he jumped in too. He got red marks on his chest and lips from when a waves smashed him into the sand. Ouch! Only saw one bluebottle - the crowds part quite quickly around a bluebottle. Someone eventually (a woman!) scooped it up with two handfuls of sand and took it away to bury.
We left the Central Coast on Jan 2nd and drove to Kiama, on the south coast. This took us 6 hours - not too sure why. Well, we did stop for sushi lunch on the way, and checked out the cliff side bridges.
I have been wanting to see these bridges for ages. We stopped at Coal Cliff and walked over them and back while Karen let the kids run around at a park.
Then down past Wollongong to Kiama to check out the blowhole. If there had been a bigger southerly swell, I suspect it would have been spectacular. Toby declared it boring. But I enjoyed it.
The locals all seemed to be in jackets and long sleeves at this point. Well, after twenty minutes out int he breeze, I was starting to feel a little cool myself.
Into our accommodation at Jamberoo - the pub! Very nice dinner there before bed! Then up on Thursday for the big day at the Jamberoo Action Park. Woo hoo! What fun!
After 7 hours non stop fun we hopped in the car for the 1.5 hour drive back to Sydney. The kids all flaked out.
Perhaps it was a respite from my singing! Hahahahah.
Now it is Friday, Jan 4th and Mike returns home tomorrow. He's back at work on Monday. I have another week here with the kids while Scott and Karen work (well, Scott is at work today - it's a shame for him!).
The weather has been great and I think I am completely on Australian time now. Going to be ruined when I get back home.
Have a great weekend!
Love,
Angela
We have had a fabulous time on the central coast (about 1 hour north of Sydney) at Scott's mother's house. Judes and Len have looked after us very well.
We got here on Sunday after a great drive up. Mike and I drove the kids and we sang all the way. Made it go very fast. Karen and Scott followed behind in the second car - about an hour behind in the end.
We nipped into the local shopping centre for some supplies - Mike now has some really great undies. Hahahah. The brand we were after were not there, but I found a great pair that looked like leopard skin pattern. Scary. So scary that I had to buy them!
Judes had prepared a magnificent BBQ dinner that Scott cooked up. Toby asked for seconds!
 |
| Yummo! |
 |
| Toby and Abby killing their food while Tyler waits for hers |
Up early the next day for a walk along the beach. Mike went for a run. Loads of bluebottles washed up. The day was not quite warm enough for me to swim. I did have my togs on because the last time I did this I ended up swimming in my clothes!
We bought loads of seafood from the fish co-op and cooked a great BBQ lunch of salmon, calamari and prawns. So delicious!
New Years Eve was spent wandering over to the The Entrance and catching up with friends of Karen and Scott's. Then walking into The Entrance proper for fish 'n' chips. At 9pm we found a great position at the apex of the bridge and watched the fireworks. I think Tyler may have videoed the entire 15 minutes on her phone.
We walked back to the car and drove slowly home with the others doing the exact same thing. In fact, one thing I am recalling from this holiday is that there are so many more people living here than in New Zealand. Everyone is doing what you're doing. And yet, if you went to the next beach, there would be just as many people doing it there too!
Once back home, everyone stayed up - even the kids. The adults (besides me) played Phase 10 while I watched the build up to the big event in Sydney on TV. Kisses all round at midnight. I think the kids were underwhelmed by it all.
New Years Day we went to the beach. It was going to be a hot day so we left early so we'd be back before it got too hot. I got to drive Len's fantastic Toyota Land Cruiser so we could all fit in one car to the beach (and I was the only person in the house capable of driving after the New Years excesses. What a great car! Loads of space, loads of power, great visibility. I wish I had a reason to need one!
The beach was great fun. Mike went for a run while I went swimming with the kids. Scotty joined us after his coffee. Toby had a ball jumping the surf waves - it was the first time he has ever spent ages doing it and enjoying it. I loved seeing his face alight with joy - even after a wave dumped him into the sand! When Mike got back from his run, he jumped in too. He got red marks on his chest and lips from when a waves smashed him into the sand. Ouch! Only saw one bluebottle - the crowds part quite quickly around a bluebottle. Someone eventually (a woman!) scooped it up with two handfuls of sand and took it away to bury.
We left the Central Coast on Jan 2nd and drove to Kiama, on the south coast. This took us 6 hours - not too sure why. Well, we did stop for sushi lunch on the way, and checked out the cliff side bridges.
 |
| Abby having sushi |
 |
| Self portrait showing the bridge back behind me |
 |
| Nice pic - ta Scotty |
 |
| And evidence Scotty was with us. See Mike behind inspecting the bridge! He was checking the expansion joint. |
I have been wanting to see these bridges for ages. We stopped at Coal Cliff and walked over them and back while Karen let the kids run around at a park.
Then down past Wollongong to Kiama to check out the blowhole. If there had been a bigger southerly swell, I suspect it would have been spectacular. Toby declared it boring. But I enjoyed it.
 |
| Yes - I accept the risk. As do those people on the top of the rocks behind me. |
Into our accommodation at Jamberoo - the pub! Very nice dinner there before bed! Then up on Thursday for the big day at the Jamberoo Action Park. Woo hoo! What fun!
 |
| Tyler needed help with her spider - but Toby didn't like her pink version (raspberry fizzy) |
 |
| And Abby's even pinker spider! |
The Jamberoo Action Park was amazing - basically a water park. The crowds meant we had a wait for most things. The Funnel Web was worth it. In fact, Mike, Scott and I did that twice - waiting 40 minutes and then 50 minutes just for the thrill of it. It has space for four people on the raft and you head off down a completely black tunnel that spins you around and then dumps you down a steep slide into a huge funnel. With Karen and Abby we had lots of squealing (Karen!). With Mike and Scott we had speed! They both hunkered down in their "seat" and used opposing weight to get the most speed out into the funnel. It worked!
The wave pool was great fun. The Taipan was a tamer version of a water slide with rafts compared to the Funnel Web. The River Rapids was a ride on tubes and wasn't very fast at all. But this had a short queue and the water was warm! So we did this ride quite a bit.
I took Abby up the chairlift at the end while Mike and Scott hurtled back down from there on the toboggan run. We beat them back on the chairlift!
 |
| Sleeping kids on the way home |
Perhaps it was a respite from my singing! Hahahahah.
Now it is Friday, Jan 4th and Mike returns home tomorrow. He's back at work on Monday. I have another week here with the kids while Scott and Karen work (well, Scott is at work today - it's a shame for him!).
The weather has been great and I think I am completely on Australian time now. Going to be ruined when I get back home.
Have a great weekend!
Love,
Angela
Happy New Year!
Every year since I was at high school, I've had New Year's at a different
place. That's over 30 years now. So for your edification and to help my
memory, here are all the places, as best I can remember and as best my
father's diaries chronicle.
| 1986/87 | 5th /6th Form | Dunback |
| 1987/88 | 6th /7th Form | Palmerston |
| 1988/89 | 7th Form/Uni | Dunback |
| 1989/90 | End 1st yr Uni | Dunedin |
| 1990/91 | End 2nd yr Uni | Wanaka |
| 1991/92 | End 3rd yr Uni | Queenstown |
| 1992/93 | End 4th yr Uni | Golden Bay Nelson |
| 1993/94 | Finished Uni | Frankton |
| 1994/95 | Wellington | Tocumwal, NSW |
| 1995/96 | Wellington | Mangamaunu Marae and then Thornton, VIC in a field |
| 1996/97 | Wellington | Wellington, with Mr Fungus (boo!) |
| 1997/98 | London | Edinburgh |
| 1998/99 | London | Annecy, France (with Der Bus) |
| 1999/00 | London | Sydney |
| 2000/01 | London | Munich |
| 2001/02 | London | Brighton |
| 2002/03 | London | London |
| 2003/04 | Melbourne | Melbourne |
| 2004/05 | Melbourne | NSW in the bush |
| 2005/06 | Melbourne | Yepoon |
| 2006/07 | Mel to Wel | Perth |
| 2007/08 | Wellington | Te Anau |
| 2008/09 | Wellington | Canberra |
| 2009/10 | Wellington | St Arnaud, Nelson Lakes |
| 2010/11 | Wellington | Holdsworth, Wairarapa |
| 2011/12 | Wellington | Glendhu Bay, Wanaka |
| 2012/13 | Wellington | The Entrance, NSW |
| 2013/14 | Wellington | Ruapehu - WTMC lodge |
| 2014/15 | Wellington | The New Years that didn't happen |
| 2015/16 | Wellington | Kawau Island |
| 2016/17 | Wellington | Wangapeka Track, Kahurangi NP |
| 2017/18 | Wellington | The Ponds, NSW |
| 2018/19 | Wellington | A bach on the outskirts of Hasting |
| 2019/20 | Wellington | Sylvester Hut, Kahurangi NP |
| 2020/21 | COVID Apocalypse | Moonlight Tops Hut, Paparoa Track |
| 2021/22 | COVID Apocalypse | Blenheim |
| 2022/23 | Kepler Southern Adventure | Lower Hollyford road-end |
| 2023/24 | Travers Sabine Southern Adventure | Westport |
| 2024/25 | Heaphy Southern Adventure | Wairoa |
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