Journal. What happened in December?
Our Weather.
It has been shocking. We have had lots of rain and the temperature has been well down from normal. Weather forecasters predict this is going to last until about the end of January and then things will return to normal. In a nutshell they say weather patterns can and do get into ruts.
Games.
After all these years ignoring Gaming I have become a Gamester. I have for a long time had a yen in the back of my mind to play Sims, particularly Sim City 4. I could not get a new copy, they are no longer in production so I managed to get a very new secondhand copy on Trade Me here in NZ, similar to E-bay.
By accident, at least I think it was by accident I put in a search for Trains modelling and back came a list of simulators. I now have the program Trainz... spelt with a Z. This game is very intensive, needs lots of Ram and a good Video Card to play properly. It is just like modelling railways again.
I doubled my Ram and purchased a better Video Card, then I realised my Power Unit is not big enough so I purchased a a 450 watt model. Now $NZ403.00 later my Trainz runs smoothly.
It was worth it, I enjoy them.
Retirement.
Now that I have got the garden tidied up I have the feeling of retirement. If I don't feel like doing something, there is also tomorrow. I am enjoying the feeling. There is jobs I want to do but they are not important and can be put on the back burner for now.
Tahlia.
Tahlia has been accepted for her Polytech course or at least the Nanny year. The Early Childhood full course is full but she will be able to be placed on that course next year and the Nanny part will be credited to her. Gillian is pleased and so are we that she has been able to get into the Student Village accommodation. The Village is not very big. 15 custom designed modern Villa's each with 5 rooms. They were built in 1988, I believe. Those students from remote areas have first preference. All meals are included with a ticketing system in the on campus restaurant.
Well that was the highlights of the month that was... I think!
Sunday, December 26, 2004
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Journal. David and his Book.
3 days ago I had out of the blue a package from David and Moira which I knew immediately was the draft manuscript of the 2nd part of David's book. When we visited and stayed with them in June 2003 I offered to edit then print up his draft copy of this manuscript. He told me he could not do the necessary after his stroke which had affected not only his speech but full control of his right hand; he could not control his finger movements his hand was too weak. He can drive and grasp the steering wheel but not control individual finger movements.
I knew he was disappointed so I offered to compile the information and type it up but suggested he first think it over. That was nearly 18 months ago. I shall start it around Xmas; this 2nd part is in journal form so I will do an entry at a time.
Pat said it is so thick, but I shall do it. His mother and mine were sisters. Part of David is me and I am part of David.
3 days ago I had out of the blue a package from David and Moira which I knew immediately was the draft manuscript of the 2nd part of David's book. When we visited and stayed with them in June 2003 I offered to edit then print up his draft copy of this manuscript. He told me he could not do the necessary after his stroke which had affected not only his speech but full control of his right hand; he could not control his finger movements his hand was too weak. He can drive and grasp the steering wheel but not control individual finger movements.
I knew he was disappointed so I offered to compile the information and type it up but suggested he first think it over. That was nearly 18 months ago. I shall start it around Xmas; this 2nd part is in journal form so I will do an entry at a time.
Pat said it is so thick, but I shall do it. His mother and mine were sisters. Part of David is me and I am part of David.
Saturday, October 23, 2004
Journal. A Tale of Two Computers.
Yesterday I decided to have a look why Pat could not use the CD writer on this computer. All I could find was the missing drive letter D and looking further, according to the computer D drive did not exist. I gave my friend Brian a ring, told him the symptoms and he said "funny...", I'll come over, I have to go downtown". The CD Writer loaded a disk, spun the disk and nothing else.
Brian duly arrived checked what I'd done already and then proceeded to run a few of his test programs. "H'mm" he said, its probably either a loose plug or its the drive". So we duly pulled the computer apart, and checked the plugs. All OK. Brian then got a spare CD writer, plugged it in and 'hey presto" everything was back to normal. So we left the test drive sitting on top of the computer case until I get a new replacement.
Anthony has been wanting a new computer for a while. He has my old computer but it is now long out of date. He has checked quite a few packages good and not so good. Last Thursday, the day before yesterday he called me to have a look at a computer package offered by Dell which I duly did yesterday, Friday. He wanted a quick answer to what I thought because the offer closed at midnight that day. Anthony rung me at 7.30 p.m., I told him what I thought and he said he would buy it. I said to him to give me a ring after he had ordered it. He laughed and said that it might be midnight as he was dickering about whether or not to get a couple of extra add on's. I said "don't bother.
Its Saturday 2 p.m. now and he hasn't rung yet. I wonder if he did order it over the Internet by the midnight deadline?
This morning I went down to my other friend Gregg at his computer shop and got a new CD Writer kit. I will fit the new drive next week. I never pick Gregg's brains, he probably would offer to look but he is the business professionally and time to him is money. It is an unwritten rule in business not to ask a friend a favour like this. Greg brings his monitors to me to fix and and I take my problems to him to fix or ask elsewhere like my friend Brian who is an avid computer enthusiast.
Yesterday I decided to have a look why Pat could not use the CD writer on this computer. All I could find was the missing drive letter D and looking further, according to the computer D drive did not exist. I gave my friend Brian a ring, told him the symptoms and he said "funny...", I'll come over, I have to go downtown". The CD Writer loaded a disk, spun the disk and nothing else.
Brian duly arrived checked what I'd done already and then proceeded to run a few of his test programs. "H'mm" he said, its probably either a loose plug or its the drive". So we duly pulled the computer apart, and checked the plugs. All OK. Brian then got a spare CD writer, plugged it in and 'hey presto" everything was back to normal. So we left the test drive sitting on top of the computer case until I get a new replacement.
Anthony has been wanting a new computer for a while. He has my old computer but it is now long out of date. He has checked quite a few packages good and not so good. Last Thursday, the day before yesterday he called me to have a look at a computer package offered by Dell which I duly did yesterday, Friday. He wanted a quick answer to what I thought because the offer closed at midnight that day. Anthony rung me at 7.30 p.m., I told him what I thought and he said he would buy it. I said to him to give me a ring after he had ordered it. He laughed and said that it might be midnight as he was dickering about whether or not to get a couple of extra add on's. I said "don't bother.
Its Saturday 2 p.m. now and he hasn't rung yet. I wonder if he did order it over the Internet by the midnight deadline?
This morning I went down to my other friend Gregg at his computer shop and got a new CD Writer kit. I will fit the new drive next week. I never pick Gregg's brains, he probably would offer to look but he is the business professionally and time to him is money. It is an unwritten rule in business not to ask a friend a favour like this. Greg brings his monitors to me to fix and and I take my problems to him to fix or ask elsewhere like my friend Brian who is an avid computer enthusiast.
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
Journal. A Windy Day.
Sun, showers and wind this morning, pleasant when the sun is out. I'm down in the office again. We have modified the office layout after we closed the business down. We should have used this layout originally, we now have much more room.
Pat is away again at a meeting, she left mid-morning and will be back mid-afternoon. It is a Church craft get together making new Xmas cards from old ones to sell for the Ladies Fellowship funds of which Pat is Chairlady ( I don't like this Chairperson business). She left around 10 a.m. armed with coloured card, old Xmas cards, press-on stamps and glue sticks. She will pick up a roll for her working lunch.
I've just been looking at a local NZ web site... Price Spy which monitors the price changes of computer parts. I have it set for monitors. I'm going to buy a new monitor, a 19 inch TFT flat panel when the prices come down a little further. Prices have been dropping steadily. I will still keep and use my present 19 inch CRT monitor both hooked up to this computer.
I installed the beta version of Google Desktop on my laptop last night to try out its features. It integrates together the normal Google internet search and Desktop Search to search your own computer. I have come to no conclusion yet due to lack of time last night. I did try 2 searches and it seemed to work ok. I also put in "Eric" and I got over 1300 hits, not much good with broad searches but may be good to find that old file 10 layers down. We'll see.
Sun, showers and wind this morning, pleasant when the sun is out. I'm down in the office again. We have modified the office layout after we closed the business down. We should have used this layout originally, we now have much more room.
Pat is away again at a meeting, she left mid-morning and will be back mid-afternoon. It is a Church craft get together making new Xmas cards from old ones to sell for the Ladies Fellowship funds of which Pat is Chairlady ( I don't like this Chairperson business). She left around 10 a.m. armed with coloured card, old Xmas cards, press-on stamps and glue sticks. She will pick up a roll for her working lunch.
I've just been looking at a local NZ web site... Price Spy which monitors the price changes of computer parts. I have it set for monitors. I'm going to buy a new monitor, a 19 inch TFT flat panel when the prices come down a little further. Prices have been dropping steadily. I will still keep and use my present 19 inch CRT monitor both hooked up to this computer.
I installed the beta version of Google Desktop on my laptop last night to try out its features. It integrates together the normal Google internet search and Desktop Search to search your own computer. I have come to no conclusion yet due to lack of time last night. I did try 2 searches and it seemed to work ok. I also put in "Eric" and I got over 1300 hits, not much good with broad searches but may be good to find that old file 10 layers down. We'll see.
Monday, October 18, 2004
Journal. Monday Morning.
Just another day now that I am retired, the day we put out the recycling items for collection. Vicky and Ian were in my thoughts again this morning, not that they are usually far away at this present time. The photos of Jen and Pete's new born baby had just arrived and the world is their oyster and I thought to myself, life it is continually changing. We have our ups and downs, joys and sadness. One household of our family is up and another is sad.
Spring is here and with it sun and showers. Downstairs here in the office I spend time on the computer on days like this. It is nice to work in the garden in the sun but everything is wet from the showers. Weeding in the wet is not my favourite job.
Just another day now that I am retired, the day we put out the recycling items for collection. Vicky and Ian were in my thoughts again this morning, not that they are usually far away at this present time. The photos of Jen and Pete's new born baby had just arrived and the world is their oyster and I thought to myself, life it is continually changing. We have our ups and downs, joys and sadness. One household of our family is up and another is sad.
Spring is here and with it sun and showers. Downstairs here in the office I spend time on the computer on days like this. It is nice to work in the garden in the sun but everything is wet from the showers. Weeding in the wet is not my favourite job.
Sunday, October 17, 2004
Journal. Thoughts and a Visit.
Pat didn't go to Church this morning, it is not often she misses but she did go for a Church meeting later. I spent the morning doing genealogy, something I haven't looked at for a while. I have just received a new computer program, a dedicated database for storing all kinds of genealogical data so I was modifying it for my needs.
Anthony arrived late morning so we spent the rest of the morning chatting and looking round the garden. After lunch Anthony suggested we might go round the Lake in the late afternoon for a walk and I jumped at the idea. I had let my walking lapse since we returned from England and I have made a few half-hearted attempts to start again without much success.
After lunch Pat and Anthony went through the way to talk and I went downstairs to send some emails off and a little more genealogy.
We enjoyed the walk later. We went via up Rayner Rd and then across the paddock to the lake. Pat picked us from the Yacht Club later, my legs were tuckered out.
Anthony didn't stay for dinner. In the evening Pat had the local bird club monthly meeting and I once more continued with my new program.
I don't seem to be able to raise much enthusiasm for birdkeepng anymore after getting rid of all the birds after I became ill. We did try for a while, bought a kitset aviary but never managed to erect it other than make a base for it. After the kitset lay un-erected on its prepared base for over 12 months we sold it.
I've not had too much luck with some of my interests over time. Model railways came to a sticky end too. I had the old empty bird breeding shed 4.2 metres by 2.4 metres which I widened to 3 metres (14 ft. by10 ft.). Ideal for model railways.
Over time ants had made their home in the structure. I thought I could eradicate them but no, they returned and returned. Cutting a long story short the only solution would have been to abandon the shed and put up a new structure elsewhere in the garden. The problem with ants is that they leave their droppings all over the model structures.
How one can ramble... this started out as a short few lines.
Pat didn't go to Church this morning, it is not often she misses but she did go for a Church meeting later. I spent the morning doing genealogy, something I haven't looked at for a while. I have just received a new computer program, a dedicated database for storing all kinds of genealogical data so I was modifying it for my needs.
Anthony arrived late morning so we spent the rest of the morning chatting and looking round the garden. After lunch Anthony suggested we might go round the Lake in the late afternoon for a walk and I jumped at the idea. I had let my walking lapse since we returned from England and I have made a few half-hearted attempts to start again without much success.
After lunch Pat and Anthony went through the way to talk and I went downstairs to send some emails off and a little more genealogy.
We enjoyed the walk later. We went via up Rayner Rd and then across the paddock to the lake. Pat picked us from the Yacht Club later, my legs were tuckered out.
Anthony didn't stay for dinner. In the evening Pat had the local bird club monthly meeting and I once more continued with my new program.
I don't seem to be able to raise much enthusiasm for birdkeepng anymore after getting rid of all the birds after I became ill. We did try for a while, bought a kitset aviary but never managed to erect it other than make a base for it. After the kitset lay un-erected on its prepared base for over 12 months we sold it.
I've not had too much luck with some of my interests over time. Model railways came to a sticky end too. I had the old empty bird breeding shed 4.2 metres by 2.4 metres which I widened to 3 metres (14 ft. by10 ft.). Ideal for model railways.
Over time ants had made their home in the structure. I thought I could eradicate them but no, they returned and returned. Cutting a long story short the only solution would have been to abandon the shed and put up a new structure elsewhere in the garden. The problem with ants is that they leave their droppings all over the model structures.
How one can ramble... this started out as a short few lines.
Monday, September 27, 2004
Journal. Early Morning.
I woke early this morning about 3.40 a.m., lay awake and listened to the on the hour radio news. The more I lay the more wide-a-wake I was. I decided to get up, I knew from past experience I would not sleep again. I did go to bed early last night at 9.00 p.m., I couldn't keep my eyes open. I was very tired. Caitlin and I went around our lake for a walk late yesterday afternoon and the Pat picked us in the car part way round. My legs were like lumps of lead on the end of my legs. Cell phones are handy when you need them.
4.10 a.m., I made my usual cup of tea and a slice of toast and read the news on the computer from The UK Telegraph and then switched to the Sydney Morning Herald. I then read my usual on-line forums and checked my genealogical incoming list emails. Nothing of much interest there.
The dawn broke at 5.30 a.m. and I peered out to see what the day had in store for us... some morning cloud in an otherwise clear sky. The sun has not come over the horizon yet to warm things up. We were promised a warm sunny day with thickening cloud this evening with rain maybe tomorrow.
After doing some genealogical work I sit and ponder. I've must get back to my life story writings. I've been saying that for a while now but I have been putting it off so that I can finish off writing up my 2003 UK trip journal. But I'm not doing very much of that either!
I am now nearing the end of the journal writings so-o-o-o I must make a big effort to finish it.
It's 6.30 a.m. now and the sun is up over the horizon and soon it will burn off the water vapour carrying cloud which is hanging around.
Will Caitlin entice me to go walking again around the lake this evening? She probably will. She enjoys the walk and so do I, always something fresh to see, questions to ask and questions to answer. At 10 I enjoy her bright cheery company and enquiring mind.
I woke early this morning about 3.40 a.m., lay awake and listened to the on the hour radio news. The more I lay the more wide-a-wake I was. I decided to get up, I knew from past experience I would not sleep again. I did go to bed early last night at 9.00 p.m., I couldn't keep my eyes open. I was very tired. Caitlin and I went around our lake for a walk late yesterday afternoon and the Pat picked us in the car part way round. My legs were like lumps of lead on the end of my legs. Cell phones are handy when you need them.
4.10 a.m., I made my usual cup of tea and a slice of toast and read the news on the computer from The UK Telegraph and then switched to the Sydney Morning Herald. I then read my usual on-line forums and checked my genealogical incoming list emails. Nothing of much interest there.
The dawn broke at 5.30 a.m. and I peered out to see what the day had in store for us... some morning cloud in an otherwise clear sky. The sun has not come over the horizon yet to warm things up. We were promised a warm sunny day with thickening cloud this evening with rain maybe tomorrow.
After doing some genealogical work I sit and ponder. I've must get back to my life story writings. I've been saying that for a while now but I have been putting it off so that I can finish off writing up my 2003 UK trip journal. But I'm not doing very much of that either!
I am now nearing the end of the journal writings so-o-o-o I must make a big effort to finish it.
It's 6.30 a.m. now and the sun is up over the horizon and soon it will burn off the water vapour carrying cloud which is hanging around.
Will Caitlin entice me to go walking again around the lake this evening? She probably will. She enjoys the walk and so do I, always something fresh to see, questions to ask and questions to answer. At 10 I enjoy her bright cheery company and enquiring mind.
Journal. The Month of September.
A quiet month and we do not seem to have done much over this period. Yesterday Caitlin, now 10 arrived to stay for the last week of the school holidays. Gillian brought her over and it was good to see her once more.
We have been busy with our Spring cleaning. The past year or two has just been a clean and tidy affair so we decided this year to give everything a thorough going-over. We started early, September so that we would be finished before Vicky and Ian's arrival on October 30th. Usually we don't start until mid October after the gas heaters are put away to bed for the Summer. Portable gas heaters tend to give off a slightly oily film which shows up on the windows and venetian blinds mostly and to a lesser extent on the paint work. I don't like cleaning the blinds very much and we do have a lot. I usually take each one outside, slosh plenty of water on them with the hose and then clean each slat with a proprietary cleaner. After drying they are sparkling once more. Later this morning I will do 2 more!
A quiet month and we do not seem to have done much over this period. Yesterday Caitlin, now 10 arrived to stay for the last week of the school holidays. Gillian brought her over and it was good to see her once more.
We have been busy with our Spring cleaning. The past year or two has just been a clean and tidy affair so we decided this year to give everything a thorough going-over. We started early, September so that we would be finished before Vicky and Ian's arrival on October 30th. Usually we don't start until mid October after the gas heaters are put away to bed for the Summer. Portable gas heaters tend to give off a slightly oily film which shows up on the windows and venetian blinds mostly and to a lesser extent on the paint work. I don't like cleaning the blinds very much and we do have a lot. I usually take each one outside, slosh plenty of water on them with the hose and then clean each slat with a proprietary cleaner. After drying they are sparkling once more. Later this morning I will do 2 more!
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
Journal. Ashlee and other things.
It was Ashlee's birthday yesterday, 15. Her school had a half day yesterday so we picked her up from Sacred Heart boarding house and took her and best friend Catherine out to lunch at the Hamilton Gardens Café. The day was brilliant and we sat outside in the warm sun. This evening she will be allowed to go to her Aunt Debbie's home in Hamilton for dinner. Much better than the boardinghouse food I would say.
Catherine comes from the Château up on the Mt. Ruapehu ski fields where her father is manager. Ashlee often goes down at weekends with Catherine to the Château and is learning snowboarding. Catherine's father presented Ashlee with a season ticket for the slopes worth $400.00 and free hire of equipment. Lucky girl!
Pat picked out a bracelet for Ashlee for her birthday inlaid with Paua shell, apparently all the rage with teenagers at the moment. She seemed pleased with it. It is hard for grandparents to pick the right things for grandchildren.
Ashlee now has her braces off her teeth, a fortnight ago. The dentist has done a good job. Now Ashlee wants a diamond set onto her front tooth, another "in" thing. No doubt she will work on her mother. Better than a tongue piercing I think.
Ian called on his mobile yesterday all the way from England. It was good to hear from him. Pat is always so pleased when he calls. He and Vicky will be here in NZ at the end of October for a holiday. We look forward to seeing them once more even though it will be only 15 moths since we last saw them on our 2003 visit to the UK.
Well the rain has now arrived as for-casted and should be clear by the weekend.
Bye the way August just gone was a "blue moon" month. August in the Southern hemisphere and July in the northern hemisphere.
It was Ashlee's birthday yesterday, 15. Her school had a half day yesterday so we picked her up from Sacred Heart boarding house and took her and best friend Catherine out to lunch at the Hamilton Gardens Café. The day was brilliant and we sat outside in the warm sun. This evening she will be allowed to go to her Aunt Debbie's home in Hamilton for dinner. Much better than the boardinghouse food I would say.
Catherine comes from the Château up on the Mt. Ruapehu ski fields where her father is manager. Ashlee often goes down at weekends with Catherine to the Château and is learning snowboarding. Catherine's father presented Ashlee with a season ticket for the slopes worth $400.00 and free hire of equipment. Lucky girl!
Pat picked out a bracelet for Ashlee for her birthday inlaid with Paua shell, apparently all the rage with teenagers at the moment. She seemed pleased with it. It is hard for grandparents to pick the right things for grandchildren.
Ashlee now has her braces off her teeth, a fortnight ago. The dentist has done a good job. Now Ashlee wants a diamond set onto her front tooth, another "in" thing. No doubt she will work on her mother. Better than a tongue piercing I think.
Ian called on his mobile yesterday all the way from England. It was good to hear from him. Pat is always so pleased when he calls. He and Vicky will be here in NZ at the end of October for a holiday. We look forward to seeing them once more even though it will be only 15 moths since we last saw them on our 2003 visit to the UK.
Well the rain has now arrived as for-casted and should be clear by the weekend.
Bye the way August just gone was a "blue moon" month. August in the Southern hemisphere and July in the northern hemisphere.
Journal. Officially Spring Today
Yes, Sept. 1st is the first day of Spring in NZ and our long spell of fine weather is about to break. Rain is due. We have had a lovely July and August, plenty of sunshine and the rain pells which we needed got it over with quickly. Some areas of NZ got more than their share and with the rain came flooding on low lying land.
We have had frost too these past few days but this was only air frosts in the pre-dawn period and were gone bt 9 a.m. Ther frosts were brought by cold air streams from the antarctic regions but we didn't mind this at all. For with the frosts came crystal clear days with bright sunshine and low humidity.
The trees and shrubs have been bursting into leaf these past 2 weeks; Spring was early this year.
Yes, Sept. 1st is the first day of Spring in NZ and our long spell of fine weather is about to break. Rain is due. We have had a lovely July and August, plenty of sunshine and the rain pells which we needed got it over with quickly. Some areas of NZ got more than their share and with the rain came flooding on low lying land.
We have had frost too these past few days but this was only air frosts in the pre-dawn period and were gone bt 9 a.m. Ther frosts were brought by cold air streams from the antarctic regions but we didn't mind this at all. For with the frosts came crystal clear days with bright sunshine and low humidity.
The trees and shrubs have been bursting into leaf these past 2 weeks; Spring was early this year.
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
Journal. Raynor Road Sub-division
The new subdivision started in earnest today. I am proposing to take a series of photos from our house as work progresses. They have started first putting in the stormwater drainage and then the power cables and water next I believe. The sewerage line is already there running right to left where the digger is situated and then will follow the construction of the first road.
Rayner Road Sub-division
There will be 35 homes eventually on larger than normal sections and aimed at the higher end of the market. The Auckland motorway now stretches down to Huntly except for one short section near Te Kauwhata. The troublesome Meremere section is now in the last stages of completion. Auckland is where demand is expected to come from.
The new subdivision started in earnest today. I am proposing to take a series of photos from our house as work progresses. They have started first putting in the stormwater drainage and then the power cables and water next I believe. The sewerage line is already there running right to left where the digger is situated and then will follow the construction of the first road.
Rayner Road Sub-division
There will be 35 homes eventually on larger than normal sections and aimed at the higher end of the market. The Auckland motorway now stretches down to Huntly except for one short section near Te Kauwhata. The troublesome Meremere section is now in the last stages of completion. Auckland is where demand is expected to come from.
Thursday, July 22, 2004
Tuesday, July 20, 2004
Journal. A Mixture of Thoughts.
Tahlia and Ashlee started back at Sacred Heart School yesterday for the term 3 of the 4 term year. Pat is again getting up at 6.15 a.m. in the mornings to see Tahlia off to the school bus. I am up at my usual 6.00 a.m. stint reading my email and forums, catching up on the world news and maybe writing a piece as of this moment.
These past 2 days I have been spending time with our new garden shredder and winter pruning our numerous shrubs and small trees. It works well and its heavy duty motor does not complain even with the thicker hardwood branches. I am stock-piling the shreddings... there are too many to put into the composter... they will used later to mulch a problem area under the trees.
This morning it is too cold at 7C. to go out early, the sun is trying to pierce the high wispy cloud and is still watery. The sun is winning... slowly.
I keep thinking of my life story lying in the doldrums at the moment. It's not as if I have writers block, I just need a good kick start. My Travel 2003 Journal is almost in the same category too.
Well the morning is warming up, it is past 10.00 a.m. and a cup of coffee calls. Then out with the shredder and work until lunch time. I must get these shrubs pruned, they have been neglected for a few years now.
Tahlia and Ashlee started back at Sacred Heart School yesterday for the term 3 of the 4 term year. Pat is again getting up at 6.15 a.m. in the mornings to see Tahlia off to the school bus. I am up at my usual 6.00 a.m. stint reading my email and forums, catching up on the world news and maybe writing a piece as of this moment.
These past 2 days I have been spending time with our new garden shredder and winter pruning our numerous shrubs and small trees. It works well and its heavy duty motor does not complain even with the thicker hardwood branches. I am stock-piling the shreddings... there are too many to put into the composter... they will used later to mulch a problem area under the trees.
This morning it is too cold at 7C. to go out early, the sun is trying to pierce the high wispy cloud and is still watery. The sun is winning... slowly.
I keep thinking of my life story lying in the doldrums at the moment. It's not as if I have writers block, I just need a good kick start. My Travel 2003 Journal is almost in the same category too.
Well the morning is warming up, it is past 10.00 a.m. and a cup of coffee calls. Then out with the shredder and work until lunch time. I must get these shrubs pruned, they have been neglected for a few years now.
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Journal. God's Own Country.
The sky is brilliant blue this morning and the air still. Earlier the lake and low lying land was a photographer's dream with the swirling wisps of morning mist changing from moment to moment with the warmth of the sun.
Truly, on a morning like this in its own peace and quietness New Zealand is "God's Own Country".
Or as we locals like to call it, "Godzone".
The sky is brilliant blue this morning and the air still. Earlier the lake and low lying land was a photographer's dream with the swirling wisps of morning mist changing from moment to moment with the warmth of the sun.
Truly, on a morning like this in its own peace and quietness New Zealand is "God's Own Country".
Or as we locals like to call it, "Godzone".
Monday, July 12, 2004
Journal. Epilepsy and A Foggy Morning.
I have just had a call from our aerial man returning a borrowed item. Stu was full of worry. His youngest son has been diagnosed with epilepsy. He has been having seizures for a while now unbeknown to Stu but the last two were serious, biting his tongue badly and causing damage.
Stu worries and wonders of the future and as he says you cannot help but worry. The boy has his problems too asking how will it affect him and none of the doctors or specialist can give him a definitive answer yet except "we need to do more tests". The point of his epilepsy lies within the skull.
As a single parent raising 2 teen-aged boys, that is the last thing Stu wants.
Its a foggy morning and the mist should have risen by now 10.30 a.m.but it hasn't. The temperature was down to zero degrees C. for a time last night. It felt so-o-o-o cold this morning. We were promised a beautiful day and 15C. by the forecasters last night. What happened?
I have just had a call from our aerial man returning a borrowed item. Stu was full of worry. His youngest son has been diagnosed with epilepsy. He has been having seizures for a while now unbeknown to Stu but the last two were serious, biting his tongue badly and causing damage.
Stu worries and wonders of the future and as he says you cannot help but worry. The boy has his problems too asking how will it affect him and none of the doctors or specialist can give him a definitive answer yet except "we need to do more tests". The point of his epilepsy lies within the skull.
As a single parent raising 2 teen-aged boys, that is the last thing Stu wants.
Its a foggy morning and the mist should have risen by now 10.30 a.m.but it hasn't. The temperature was down to zero degrees C. for a time last night. It felt so-o-o-o cold this morning. We were promised a beautiful day and 15C. by the forecasters last night. What happened?
Sunday, July 04, 2004
Journal. A Beautiful Mid Winter's Day
The sun is shining, the sky is wall to wall bright blue and the leaves on the trees scarcely move. A slight chill is in the air and the temperature is 17C. After our past week of sun, rain, hail and wind it is pleasurable to be alive. The anticyclone sitting in the Tasman Sea has moved on to NZ at last.
We often get get these sort of calm days in July during our winter but with a somewhat lower temperature. Some say a good time of year to go on holiday in the settled weather.
I think I will get the garden blower/vac. out this afternoon and blow away the leaves off the lawns down into the bottom section.
Or, shall I just sit out in the sun and browse and think about the leaves? There is always tomorrow when you are retired.
The sun is shining, the sky is wall to wall bright blue and the leaves on the trees scarcely move. A slight chill is in the air and the temperature is 17C. After our past week of sun, rain, hail and wind it is pleasurable to be alive. The anticyclone sitting in the Tasman Sea has moved on to NZ at last.
We often get get these sort of calm days in July during our winter but with a somewhat lower temperature. Some say a good time of year to go on holiday in the settled weather.
I think I will get the garden blower/vac. out this afternoon and blow away the leaves off the lawns down into the bottom section.
Or, shall I just sit out in the sun and browse and think about the leaves? There is always tomorrow when you are retired.
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
Journal. Food for Thought.
A few moments ago a cold shiver went up my spine. I was entering details into my Family Tree. I was checking my father's details for correctness and entering further expanded details. I sat looking for a moment and noticed his age, he died at age 67 and here was I at aged 70 with lots of things to do and see yet. And as I said a cold shiver went through me.
I was aged 41 at the time he died and I considered him old. Does my family find me old and look on me as old? I don't feel particularly old, even if I am aged 70.
A few moments ago a cold shiver went up my spine. I was entering details into my Family Tree. I was checking my father's details for correctness and entering further expanded details. I sat looking for a moment and noticed his age, he died at age 67 and here was I at aged 70 with lots of things to do and see yet. And as I said a cold shiver went through me.
I was aged 41 at the time he died and I considered him old. Does my family find me old and look on me as old? I don't feel particularly old, even if I am aged 70.
Monday, June 28, 2004
Journal. A Funny Food Weekend.
We went out to dinner last Friday night with son Anthony and friend Craig. We had a barely passable smörgåsbord meal at Memory Lane in Hamilton City.
The impression was confirmed on this visit that Memory Lane like a lot of other food places, that the quality of the fare is slowly drifting down-wards.
The soup was not good and the ice cream machine pumped out a mixture of white frozen milk diluted with water and tasted awful. The ice crystals were evident. The management did not seem too concerned to a polite chide. But the seafood was excellent and Pat went for a little more. I doubt that we shall go again. A pity I have always liked the ambiance of Memory Lane aka The Old Flame.
However on the subject of food, I was impressed by the Casino Restaurant on 2 recent visits, the food was superbly prepared and very edible. Craig tells me that he knows of other traditional food eateries which we will visit. If these sink in quality there is always my favourite to fall back on, Indian fare with more than one good restaurant in Hamilton with the odd good Chinese now and then.
A pity about Memory Lane I enjoy a good traditional English roast served in a Smörgåsbord manner, to chose what I like.
Food places come and food places go. Some lasting longer than others. Give customers sub standard fare, customers remember and talk.
Otherwise our weekend was enjoyable and we returned home in a happy frame of mind.
We went out to dinner last Friday night with son Anthony and friend Craig. We had a barely passable smörgåsbord meal at Memory Lane in Hamilton City.
The impression was confirmed on this visit that Memory Lane like a lot of other food places, that the quality of the fare is slowly drifting down-wards.
The soup was not good and the ice cream machine pumped out a mixture of white frozen milk diluted with water and tasted awful. The ice crystals were evident. The management did not seem too concerned to a polite chide. But the seafood was excellent and Pat went for a little more. I doubt that we shall go again. A pity I have always liked the ambiance of Memory Lane aka The Old Flame.
However on the subject of food, I was impressed by the Casino Restaurant on 2 recent visits, the food was superbly prepared and very edible. Craig tells me that he knows of other traditional food eateries which we will visit. If these sink in quality there is always my favourite to fall back on, Indian fare with more than one good restaurant in Hamilton with the odd good Chinese now and then.
A pity about Memory Lane I enjoy a good traditional English roast served in a Smörgåsbord manner, to chose what I like.
Food places come and food places go. Some lasting longer than others. Give customers sub standard fare, customers remember and talk.
Otherwise our weekend was enjoyable and we returned home in a happy frame of mind.
Thursday, June 24, 2004
Journal. This Story made me Smile.
One sunny day in 2005 an old man approached the White House from across Pennsylvania Avenue, where he'd been sitting on a park bench. He spoke to the U.S. Marine standing guard and said, "I would like to go in and meet with President Bush." The Marine looked at the man and said, "Sir, Mr. Bush is no longer president and no longer resides here." The old man said, "Okay" and walked away.
The following day, the same man approached the White House and said to the same Marine, "I would like to go in and meet with President Bush." The Marine again told the man, "Sir, as I said yesterday, Mr. Bush is no longer president and no longer resides here." The man thanked him and, again, just walked away.
The third day, the same man approached the White House and spoke to the very same U.S. Marine, saying "I would like to go in and meet with President Bush."
The Marine, understandably agitated at this point, looked at the man and said, "Sir, this is the third day in a row you have been here asking to speak to Mr. Bush. I've told you already that Mr. Bush is no longer the president and no longer resides here. Don't you understand?" The old man looked at the Marine and said, "Oh, I understand. I just love hearing it." The Marine snapped to attention, saluted, and said, "Yes Sir. See you tomorrow."
One sunny day in 2005 an old man approached the White House from across Pennsylvania Avenue, where he'd been sitting on a park bench. He spoke to the U.S. Marine standing guard and said, "I would like to go in and meet with President Bush." The Marine looked at the man and said, "Sir, Mr. Bush is no longer president and no longer resides here." The old man said, "Okay" and walked away.
The following day, the same man approached the White House and said to the same Marine, "I would like to go in and meet with President Bush." The Marine again told the man, "Sir, as I said yesterday, Mr. Bush is no longer president and no longer resides here." The man thanked him and, again, just walked away.
The third day, the same man approached the White House and spoke to the very same U.S. Marine, saying "I would like to go in and meet with President Bush."
The Marine, understandably agitated at this point, looked at the man and said, "Sir, this is the third day in a row you have been here asking to speak to Mr. Bush. I've told you already that Mr. Bush is no longer the president and no longer resides here. Don't you understand?" The old man looked at the Marine and said, "Oh, I understand. I just love hearing it." The Marine snapped to attention, saluted, and said, "Yes Sir. See you tomorrow."
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Journal.Winter Weather.
Yesterday we had high winds, rain, hale and sunshine. Sometimes all together! Today the wind has dropped, morning rain showers and sunshine and the weather is getting progressively better. Temp today is 17C.
Journal. Letters.
Wrote and posted 2 letters today to David Bell, my cousin living in Ponteland near Newcastle-on-Tyne and Harry Douglas, retired Schoolmaster at Bromfield in Cumbria.
Ponteland is very much like a leafy NZ suburb
Bromfield village probably hasn't changed since my mother went to school there in 1912 to 1920 era. Visiting in 2003 I thought time must have stood still.
Yesterday we had high winds, rain, hale and sunshine. Sometimes all together! Today the wind has dropped, morning rain showers and sunshine and the weather is getting progressively better. Temp today is 17C.
Journal. Letters.
Wrote and posted 2 letters today to David Bell, my cousin living in Ponteland near Newcastle-on-Tyne and Harry Douglas, retired Schoolmaster at Bromfield in Cumbria.
Ponteland is very much like a leafy NZ suburb
Bromfield village probably hasn't changed since my mother went to school there in 1912 to 1920 era. Visiting in 2003 I thought time must have stood still.
Journal. Harry Douglas Letter.
26 Dudley Ave
Huntly, 2191
New Zealand
23 June 2004
Dear Harry,
You will be surprised no doubt to get a letter from New Zealand. I visited Bromfield last year in June enquiring about my Uncle Joe Brough and also Tommy Brough who lived at Intack House, Crookdake.
I have just been writing up my daily journal précis notes of my 10 week trip to the UK and I have just arrived in Bromfield. I thought I would drop you a line of thanks for the time you took with me and your help gladly given. I was glad to come and see Bromfield once more, my last visit was when I was a small boy.
I also had another reason to write to you. After leaving Bromfield my next stop was Ponteland in Northumberland to visit my cousin who, on relating my experiences in Bromfield promptly said to me "I know Harry Douglas, we went to Teacher's Training College together". Do you remember David Bell from Aspatria?
David's mother, my mother, Joe & Tommy Brough were brothers and sisters. David unfortunately had a stroke 2 years ago which badly affected his speech and weakened his right hand although he can still drive. His mind is still sharp. He asked to be remembered to you.
As I write up my notes and this letter I feel I would like to make another visit to Bromfield; I didn't really get all the information I wanted, I did not allow enough time for the exercise. A day and a half was not sufficient. I didn't get the photos I should have done either, however I did get a photo of my grandfather's gravestone Joseph Brough Snr., with his 2 wives inscriptions. His first wife died at the age of 32. The white grave-stone on the far rear end wall of the churchyard.
Again, thank you for your help.
Kind regards,
Eric Brough Irving
26 Dudley Ave
Huntly, 2191
New Zealand
23 June 2004
Dear Harry,
You will be surprised no doubt to get a letter from New Zealand. I visited Bromfield last year in June enquiring about my Uncle Joe Brough and also Tommy Brough who lived at Intack House, Crookdake.
I have just been writing up my daily journal précis notes of my 10 week trip to the UK and I have just arrived in Bromfield. I thought I would drop you a line of thanks for the time you took with me and your help gladly given. I was glad to come and see Bromfield once more, my last visit was when I was a small boy.
I also had another reason to write to you. After leaving Bromfield my next stop was Ponteland in Northumberland to visit my cousin who, on relating my experiences in Bromfield promptly said to me "I know Harry Douglas, we went to Teacher's Training College together". Do you remember David Bell from Aspatria?
David's mother, my mother, Joe & Tommy Brough were brothers and sisters. David unfortunately had a stroke 2 years ago which badly affected his speech and weakened his right hand although he can still drive. His mind is still sharp. He asked to be remembered to you.
As I write up my notes and this letter I feel I would like to make another visit to Bromfield; I didn't really get all the information I wanted, I did not allow enough time for the exercise. A day and a half was not sufficient. I didn't get the photos I should have done either, however I did get a photo of my grandfather's gravestone Joseph Brough Snr., with his 2 wives inscriptions. His first wife died at the age of 32. The white grave-stone on the far rear end wall of the churchyard.
Again, thank you for your help.
Kind regards,
Eric Brough Irving
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Journal. David Letter.
26 Dudley Ave
or PO Box 80
Huntly
New Zealand
22 June 2004
Dear David and Moira,
Thought I would drop you a line to fill you in what is happening to us in this neck of the woods… not that there is much to tell. I have finished work completely now after the last few years of semi part-time albeit shortened hours.
The closing down of the business took much longer than expected. The accountant said to allow about 3 months with all the paper work involved and he was right, but everything is cleaned up now. I’m now busy with all the things I have wanted to do and couldn’t because of work or too tired in later years to do them.
I had a phone call from my eldest son Ian a few weeks back to say you had phoned him and were intending to send the draft copy of the second part of “ Thanks for a Life” for writing up. Send it anytime that is convenient to you, I will be more than delighted to do it for you. It will make a pleasant interlude between poking around in genealogy and writing my memoirs and gardening.
John and Edith Irving have just returned from visiting here NZ last week and were talking of visiting you at some stage on their return. They made their base at their son’s place and came and stayed with us for a time.
On their return after a few days they were going house and cat sitting for a month in Harrogate at Edith’s brothers place whilst he is Australia visiting his daughter.
It is our winter now; the shortest day is now past and I’m trying out growing winter tomatoes in the new greenhouse. Others do it but we have to be careful of early morning air-frosts next month, which can knock them back. Lettuce and other vegetables grow well. Oh, and not forgetting flowers. It is rainy squalls at present with wind and sunshine following but mild.
I do hope your daughter is bearing up after her sad loss and the children too. It is difficult to say in writing what you want to say but you will know what I mean.
By the way David I’m about to drop a line to Harry Douglas to thank him for his help in Bromfield when we were there and I will mention you to him. I’ve just finished writing up that part in my journal that I kept of our trip.
Over the page I’ve placed a poem I came across some time ago on the Internet. I immediately thought that you would like to see it David, I remembered you used to like Cumbrian dialect. The web site also had the copy of the 1954 Directory of Aspatria and District. Under Mealsgate and Bromfield were entries for Joe and Tommy Brough, East House including the Bungalow and also my Irving entries. I had a look under Aspatria and would guess that you would know a lot of the names listed. I can take them off on the printer if you like.
Well I’m over the page so you will see the poem.
I will say cheerio for the present and keep well. Say hello to Diane and Slinky
Regards… Eric
P.S. The spell checker didn’t like the poem!!
A Poem
This poem, attributed to Gordon Nicholl, describes the demise of Bulgill Colliery in about 1910.
Original West-Cumbrian Version Translation
Bulgill's buggert marraWukken out cum's fastIf thou gits t'backshift inThat cud be thee last Bulgill's buggered friend,Working-out comes fast,If you get the backshift in,That could be your last
T'Powney's gone till RiserT'Ingins gone till t'sealsThompson's up afoort t'bossFer pinchun six inch neals The pony's gone to RisehowThe Engine's gone to the salesTompson's up before the bossFor stealing six inch nails
Tyson's gone till ButhyCass till OutersideUncle Joe's at Number FowerAn Tom's at Number Five Tyson's gone to BothelCass to OughtersideUncle Joe's at Number fourAnd Tom's at Number Five
Bulgill's buggert marraJust a wa' o steanDivent ga 'till ButhyThoo's better off at yam. Bulgill's buggered friendJust a wall of stoneDon't go to BothelYou're better off at home
Ere we ga up t'clog trodIn till t'Railway PubGet thee wissel wet me ladSee-un thou'll be on't club. Here we go up the pathInto the Railway PubGet your whistle wet my ladSeeing as you'll be on the club
26 Dudley Ave
or PO Box 80
Huntly
New Zealand
22 June 2004
Dear David and Moira,
Thought I would drop you a line to fill you in what is happening to us in this neck of the woods… not that there is much to tell. I have finished work completely now after the last few years of semi part-time albeit shortened hours.
The closing down of the business took much longer than expected. The accountant said to allow about 3 months with all the paper work involved and he was right, but everything is cleaned up now. I’m now busy with all the things I have wanted to do and couldn’t because of work or too tired in later years to do them.
I had a phone call from my eldest son Ian a few weeks back to say you had phoned him and were intending to send the draft copy of the second part of “ Thanks for a Life” for writing up. Send it anytime that is convenient to you, I will be more than delighted to do it for you. It will make a pleasant interlude between poking around in genealogy and writing my memoirs and gardening.
John and Edith Irving have just returned from visiting here NZ last week and were talking of visiting you at some stage on their return. They made their base at their son’s place and came and stayed with us for a time.
On their return after a few days they were going house and cat sitting for a month in Harrogate at Edith’s brothers place whilst he is Australia visiting his daughter.
It is our winter now; the shortest day is now past and I’m trying out growing winter tomatoes in the new greenhouse. Others do it but we have to be careful of early morning air-frosts next month, which can knock them back. Lettuce and other vegetables grow well. Oh, and not forgetting flowers. It is rainy squalls at present with wind and sunshine following but mild.
I do hope your daughter is bearing up after her sad loss and the children too. It is difficult to say in writing what you want to say but you will know what I mean.
By the way David I’m about to drop a line to Harry Douglas to thank him for his help in Bromfield when we were there and I will mention you to him. I’ve just finished writing up that part in my journal that I kept of our trip.
Over the page I’ve placed a poem I came across some time ago on the Internet. I immediately thought that you would like to see it David, I remembered you used to like Cumbrian dialect. The web site also had the copy of the 1954 Directory of Aspatria and District. Under Mealsgate and Bromfield were entries for Joe and Tommy Brough, East House including the Bungalow and also my Irving entries. I had a look under Aspatria and would guess that you would know a lot of the names listed. I can take them off on the printer if you like.
Well I’m over the page so you will see the poem.
I will say cheerio for the present and keep well. Say hello to Diane and Slinky
Regards… Eric
P.S. The spell checker didn’t like the poem!!
A Poem
This poem, attributed to Gordon Nicholl, describes the demise of Bulgill Colliery in about 1910.
Original West-Cumbrian Version Translation
Bulgill's buggert marraWukken out cum's fastIf thou gits t'backshift inThat cud be thee last Bulgill's buggered friend,Working-out comes fast,If you get the backshift in,That could be your last
T'Powney's gone till RiserT'Ingins gone till t'sealsThompson's up afoort t'bossFer pinchun six inch neals The pony's gone to RisehowThe Engine's gone to the salesTompson's up before the bossFor stealing six inch nails
Tyson's gone till ButhyCass till OutersideUncle Joe's at Number FowerAn Tom's at Number Five Tyson's gone to BothelCass to OughtersideUncle Joe's at Number fourAnd Tom's at Number Five
Bulgill's buggert marraJust a wa' o steanDivent ga 'till ButhyThoo's better off at yam. Bulgill's buggered friendJust a wall of stoneDon't go to BothelYou're better off at home
Ere we ga up t'clog trodIn till t'Railway PubGet thee wissel wet me ladSee-un thou'll be on't club. Here we go up the pathInto the Railway PubGet your whistle wet my ladSeeing as you'll be on the club
Sunday, June 20, 2004
Journal. J & E Home
John and Edith are now home in the UK and no doubt in need of a good rest. The only problem, they have to go in 4 days to Harrowgate to house sit for a month.
I sent them a welcome home email and some photos. The last 2 bounced, their box is full. I also sent the same pix to Ian and also Jen.
Ian phoned last night and I didn't get to bed until well after midnight. His late call was welcome, we had not heard from him for a while and Pat thought he had dropped off the end of the earth with her texting to him going un-answered.
John and Edith are now home in the UK and no doubt in need of a good rest. The only problem, they have to go in 4 days to Harrowgate to house sit for a month.
I sent them a welcome home email and some photos. The last 2 bounced, their box is full. I also sent the same pix to Ian and also Jen.
Ian phoned last night and I didn't get to bed until well after midnight. His late call was welcome, we had not heard from him for a while and Pat thought he had dropped off the end of the earth with her texting to him going un-answered.
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Journal. Field Days
Every year in mid June and our winter here in NZ, Agricultural Field Days are held at Mystery Creek near Hamilton. All the manufacturers and importers of agricultural products and machinery set up their stands and marquee's. Other sellers of products also show their wares and an instant town springs up over the preceding week.
Visitors number into 6 figures and each year the preceding years record is usually broken. And every year it rains; the weather forecast for the opening tomorrow after our nice weather this week is it will rain cats and dogs again starting tonight.
Every year in mid June and our winter here in NZ, Agricultural Field Days are held at Mystery Creek near Hamilton. All the manufacturers and importers of agricultural products and machinery set up their stands and marquee's. Other sellers of products also show their wares and an instant town springs up over the preceding week.
Visitors number into 6 figures and each year the preceding years record is usually broken. And every year it rains; the weather forecast for the opening tomorrow after our nice weather this week is it will rain cats and dogs again starting tonight.
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Journal. John and Edith. Caitlin and St. John's.
John and Edith returned to stay with us last Thursday again before returning home to the UK on this coming Tuesday. We again enjoyed their company.
Yesterday, Saturday we went over to Thames (the NZ one) taking J and E with us. We went to see our grand-daughter Caitin enrolled as a cadet into the order of St. John's Ambulance Service along with 65 other inductee's with an age range from 8 to 18 years from the surrounding towns and country areas. Most were teenagers. All were dressed in uniform and they looked a picture.
We enjoyed the old world ceremony and a pleasant finger food meal afterwards. The day was fine and the sun shone.
Afterwards J and E left us seperately and were returning to spend the rest of their time with Geoff and Anna in Waiuku. Anna will see them onto the LA flight on Tuesday where they will spend 2 days before proceeding home.
John and Edith returned to stay with us last Thursday again before returning home to the UK on this coming Tuesday. We again enjoyed their company.
Yesterday, Saturday we went over to Thames (the NZ one) taking J and E with us. We went to see our grand-daughter Caitin enrolled as a cadet into the order of St. John's Ambulance Service along with 65 other inductee's with an age range from 8 to 18 years from the surrounding towns and country areas. Most were teenagers. All were dressed in uniform and they looked a picture.
We enjoyed the old world ceremony and a pleasant finger food meal afterwards. The day was fine and the sun shone.
Afterwards J and E left us seperately and were returning to spend the rest of their time with Geoff and Anna in Waiuku. Anna will see them onto the LA flight on Tuesday where they will spend 2 days before proceeding home.
Sunday, June 06, 2004
Journal.The Past Week
The the weather has been variable during the past week with rain, sun, wind and sunshine. Of course it is the start of our winter now here in NZ. The day temperatures are starting to drop down to a maximum 14-18 deg.C. and nights down to 9 deg.C.
The Huntly Railway over-bridge is now completed and the by-pass extention is now in use. Much finishing is still to be completed so that may take a month or two.
This weekend is Queen's Birthday Weekend and Paul and Gill with Caitlin and Ashley have gone to Taupo. The highlight will be a jet-boat trip up the river (or down stream) I'm not sure which. Tahlia didn't go, preferring to go to her friend's house as she does most weekends. We dont't see her much... only during the weekdays. Tahlia is nearly 17 now so maybe she thinks she is too old to go with Mum and Dad?
Pat has adopted the stray young cat she has fed for over a year now. It is black with white paws and nose. She had me pick it up on Tuesday and take into the vet's to be "fixed"... a good Kiwi expression! We knew it as variously as "Street Cat" and "Blacky". Pat rechristened it "Dudley"... our street name where we found it. Dudley has now been let into the house for the first time.
During our 10 weeks holiday in the UK the stray cat had a rough time having to scavenge for its food and he was very thin on our return.
Pat still thinks of Biggles and gets upset now and then. We talked of him yesterday. And she has the date of him going missing firmly planted in her mind as she has the date of his birth 11 years ago.
I must dig out a picture of Biggles and put him on the weblog.
The the weather has been variable during the past week with rain, sun, wind and sunshine. Of course it is the start of our winter now here in NZ. The day temperatures are starting to drop down to a maximum 14-18 deg.C. and nights down to 9 deg.C.
The Huntly Railway over-bridge is now completed and the by-pass extention is now in use. Much finishing is still to be completed so that may take a month or two.
This weekend is Queen's Birthday Weekend and Paul and Gill with Caitlin and Ashley have gone to Taupo. The highlight will be a jet-boat trip up the river (or down stream) I'm not sure which. Tahlia didn't go, preferring to go to her friend's house as she does most weekends. We dont't see her much... only during the weekdays. Tahlia is nearly 17 now so maybe she thinks she is too old to go with Mum and Dad?
Pat has adopted the stray young cat she has fed for over a year now. It is black with white paws and nose. She had me pick it up on Tuesday and take into the vet's to be "fixed"... a good Kiwi expression! We knew it as variously as "Street Cat" and "Blacky". Pat rechristened it "Dudley"... our street name where we found it. Dudley has now been let into the house for the first time.
During our 10 weeks holiday in the UK the stray cat had a rough time having to scavenge for its food and he was very thin on our return.
Pat still thinks of Biggles and gets upset now and then. We talked of him yesterday. And she has the date of him going missing firmly planted in her mind as she has the date of his birth 11 years ago.
I must dig out a picture of Biggles and put him on the weblog.
Wednesday, June 02, 2004
Journal. Quiet on the Weblog Front.
Yes, I've been lax with all my weblogs. My time has been spent getting my new genealogy program Family Historian up and running and evaluating its capabilities. I like it even though it is a little harder to master, Much better than my original program.
So far I have entered my present family, my parents and grandparents families on the Brough's side first together with all their siblings and other details I have accumulated. I used my mother's family, the Brough's first because it is easier and more comprehensive. The family tree is laid out graphically on a very large A0 sheet of paper.
The Huntly Bird Show is over for another year. This year the paper work was computerized and although it was only a little quicker than the manual system it was easier on man power.
Yes, I've been lax with all my weblogs. My time has been spent getting my new genealogy program Family Historian up and running and evaluating its capabilities. I like it even though it is a little harder to master, Much better than my original program.
So far I have entered my present family, my parents and grandparents families on the Brough's side first together with all their siblings and other details I have accumulated. I used my mother's family, the Brough's first because it is easier and more comprehensive. The family tree is laid out graphically on a very large A0 sheet of paper.
The Huntly Bird Show is over for another year. This year the paper work was computerized and although it was only a little quicker than the manual system it was easier on man power.
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
Journal. Family Historian.
After some thought I purchased the program Family Historian today. I have in front of me a big job transferring all my information across from my old program. But I will enjoy it!
It is British based and orientated whereas most others are US orientated and out of date in their thinking.
After some thought I purchased the program Family Historian today. I have in front of me a big job transferring all my information across from my old program. But I will enjoy it!
It is British based and orientated whereas most others are US orientated and out of date in their thinking.
Friday, May 21, 2004
Journal. J & E Left Friday
John and Edith left today and returned to their son Geoff's home at Waiuku for a few days. Then they will tackle the Waihi and Tauranga directions. It rained today after 7 beautiful days, but the rain will be short lived.
We enjoyed having them stay and we did miss them when they left us. The noisy house became quiet. But as Pat remarked we could again relax and do our own thing.
Pat, John and Edith in Hamilton Gardens whilst visiting us in NZ. May 2004
John and Edith left today and returned to their son Geoff's home at Waiuku for a few days. Then they will tackle the Waihi and Tauranga directions. It rained today after 7 beautiful days, but the rain will be short lived.
We enjoyed having them stay and we did miss them when they left us. The noisy house became quiet. But as Pat remarked we could again relax and do our own thing.
Pat, John and Edith in Hamilton Gardens whilst visiting us in NZ. May 2004
Tuesday, May 18, 2004
Journal. Tuesday Picnic
On Monday we stayed around home. I gave John some tuition on the computer and he was as pleased as punch that he could do new things. I liked his Sony laptop particularly the very wide viewing angle. I also filled his "Favorites" with many of mine and showed him how to do it. Both of them also spent time sending emails to friends.
Late afternoon John decided he needed a photo of the roosting Cormorants and both of them went down to the lake.
On Tuesday we decided to take them to Hamilton Gardens. They visited here 3 years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. The day was beautiful as it has been since they arrived. Again they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Salmon plus cheese and tomato sandwiches, NZ orange out of cups, quince and fruit then basking in the warm Autumn sun. Bliss said John.
We slowly walked through the many gardens starting with the Italian one and ending with the Chinese garden. As the late autumn afternoon chill approached we wended our way home tired and happy.
On Monday we stayed around home. I gave John some tuition on the computer and he was as pleased as punch that he could do new things. I liked his Sony laptop particularly the very wide viewing angle. I also filled his "Favorites" with many of mine and showed him how to do it. Both of them also spent time sending emails to friends.
Late afternoon John decided he needed a photo of the roosting Cormorants and both of them went down to the lake.
On Tuesday we decided to take them to Hamilton Gardens. They visited here 3 years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. The day was beautiful as it has been since they arrived. Again they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Salmon plus cheese and tomato sandwiches, NZ orange out of cups, quince and fruit then basking in the warm Autumn sun. Bliss said John.
We slowly walked through the many gardens starting with the Italian one and ending with the Chinese garden. As the late autumn afternoon chill approached we wended our way home tired and happy.
Sunday, May 16, 2004
Journal. Sunday Outing.
John and Edith did arrive last Friday and we were glad to see them. Saturday was a quiet day, they seemed pleased to want to go for a walk around our lake. They really enjoyed the experience. The Canada Geese were there in droves finding sanctuary during shooting season but the highlight was seeing the Cormorants all perched in a big willow tree preparing to roost for the night.
Now the Sunday outing. We took them to the Casino for a meal at the restaurant. They thought the view from up high over the river and Hamilton fantastic. We had a walk around the Casino floor later but they wisely kept their money in their pocket.
Anthony came too and John and Edith were pleased to see him.
John and Edith did arrive last Friday and we were glad to see them. Saturday was a quiet day, they seemed pleased to want to go for a walk around our lake. They really enjoyed the experience. The Canada Geese were there in droves finding sanctuary during shooting season but the highlight was seeing the Cormorants all perched in a big willow tree preparing to roost for the night.
Now the Sunday outing. We took them to the Casino for a meal at the restaurant. They thought the view from up high over the river and Hamilton fantastic. We had a walk around the Casino floor later but they wisely kept their money in their pocket.
Anthony came too and John and Edith were pleased to see him.
Tuesday, May 11, 2004
Journal. John and Edith.
They are now due this coming Friday to come and stay with us. John is constantly reinventing his itinerary to fit everyone in. I think he may be staying a week. We look forward to seeing them. I enjoy brotherly bonding sessions with John. I used to watch my parents do it when I was young. They didn't call it bonding then, just family get together.
They are now due this coming Friday to come and stay with us. John is constantly reinventing his itinerary to fit everyone in. I think he may be staying a week. We look forward to seeing them. I enjoy brotherly bonding sessions with John. I used to watch my parents do it when I was young. They didn't call it bonding then, just family get together.
Journal. New Blogger and Gmail.
Well Blogger has upgraded to a new look yesterday and now uses a dashboard to input new comment to the weblog. Those at the receiving end will see no difference. So the information is of no use except to me.
Blogger is part of Google and so is the beta program Gmail. I have been using Gmail for a while now and I expect it to be a leap forward in web mail when finally released. When Gmail is introduced to the public I can see a great surge forward.
Well Blogger has upgraded to a new look yesterday and now uses a dashboard to input new comment to the weblog. Those at the receiving end will see no difference. So the information is of no use except to me.
Blogger is part of Google and so is the beta program Gmail. I have been using Gmail for a while now and I expect it to be a leap forward in web mail when finally released. When Gmail is introduced to the public I can see a great surge forward.
Tuesday, May 04, 2004
Journal. Rain
At long last we have the rain. The forecaster's had been promising the rain for almost a week now and at last on Saturday it arrived. 50mm... 2 inches on Sunday and heavy showers since.
The barometer is starting to climb again I see today. John and Edith headed up to Northland this past weekend I believe. They will be coming to stay with us this coming weekend or perhaps Monday for (perhaps again) a week or so.
Gillian came over on Friday to take Caitlin for another scan of her leg. It is progressing well. Another scan to be taken in 3 months time. A nasty business.
Gillian stayed 2 nights, taking the opportunity to do some Hamilton links here shopping on Saturday despite the heavy rain.
At long last we have the rain. The forecaster's had been promising the rain for almost a week now and at last on Saturday it arrived. 50mm... 2 inches on Sunday and heavy showers since.
The barometer is starting to climb again I see today. John and Edith headed up to Northland this past weekend I believe. They will be coming to stay with us this coming weekend or perhaps Monday for (perhaps again) a week or so.
Gillian came over on Friday to take Caitlin for another scan of her leg. It is progressing well. Another scan to be taken in 3 months time. A nasty business.
Gillian stayed 2 nights, taking the opportunity to do some Hamilton links here shopping on Saturday despite the heavy rain.
Monday, April 26, 2004
Journal. The Lower Section
I spent the morning clearing up the dead undergrowth from the bottom section from my weed spraying program. I worked until I was too hot and tired to do more.
The top half of the section would look very bare if it was not for the planted trees and shrubs. I will have to do some resprays later in the year, dormant seeds will sprout when the rains come.
I spent the morning clearing up the dead undergrowth from the bottom section from my weed spraying program. I worked until I was too hot and tired to do more.
The top half of the section would look very bare if it was not for the planted trees and shrubs. I will have to do some resprays later in the year, dormant seeds will sprout when the rains come.
Sunday, April 25, 2004
Saturday, April 24, 2004
Journal. Gardening morning
Busy morning doing some planting on the lower half of the section. Three young Locquat trees and 2 Cassia bushes. I grew them all from seed harvested from our plants.
Locquat fruit were a favourite with Gillian, Ian and Anthony when they were young. The slightly tart orange yellow fruit were delicious. Unfortunately the goat ring barked our original tree and killed it. A year or three ago I got new a tree and took the seeds from last season's fruit and raised 4 plants. They grow quickly.
Digging the holes I disturbed some bulbs of I don't know what. They we just beginning to shoot. I planted them elsewhere.
We are now getting the Autumn leaf drop plus leaf drop due to drought conditions all over the section. I purchased a leaf blower 2 years ago and it makes life easier for my tired bones. It is switchable to vacuum mode too.
In the Glasshouse I sowed 3 punnets of Cineraria and the young seedlings are just peeping through. The young tomato plants are growing well along with Basil and Lettuce. I've planted some Pepino cuttings to over-winter in the greenhouse; at present they look dead but I shall wait.
Busy morning doing some planting on the lower half of the section. Three young Locquat trees and 2 Cassia bushes. I grew them all from seed harvested from our plants.
Locquat fruit were a favourite with Gillian, Ian and Anthony when they were young. The slightly tart orange yellow fruit were delicious. Unfortunately the goat ring barked our original tree and killed it. A year or three ago I got new a tree and took the seeds from last season's fruit and raised 4 plants. They grow quickly.
Digging the holes I disturbed some bulbs of I don't know what. They we just beginning to shoot. I planted them elsewhere.
We are now getting the Autumn leaf drop plus leaf drop due to drought conditions all over the section. I purchased a leaf blower 2 years ago and it makes life easier for my tired bones. It is switchable to vacuum mode too.
In the Glasshouse I sowed 3 punnets of Cineraria and the young seedlings are just peeping through. The young tomato plants are growing well along with Basil and Lettuce. I've planted some Pepino cuttings to over-winter in the greenhouse; at present they look dead but I shall wait.
Journal. Flowers for Pat
Tomorrow is Pat's birthday... Anzac Day. Flowers arrived today from Vicky and Ian. Very exotic looking bouquet of Leucadendron and Protea flowers with miniature palm leaves and other tropical greenery. Very nice indeed.
Gillian phoned to say she and the girls will be arriving tomorrow morning around 10 a.m.
Tomorrow is Pat's birthday... Anzac Day. Flowers arrived today from Vicky and Ian. Very exotic looking bouquet of Leucadendron and Protea flowers with miniature palm leaves and other tropical greenery. Very nice indeed.
Gillian phoned to say she and the girls will be arriving tomorrow morning around 10 a.m.
Thursday, April 22, 2004
Journal. Gmail
Today I was asked by Google as an active user of Blogger if I would be willing to beta test Gmail the new email system to be made public shortly by Google... no date yet.
I have activated OldEric: my funny motto to be run by Gmail.
Today I was asked by Google as an active user of Blogger if I would be willing to beta test Gmail the new email system to be made public shortly by Google... no date yet.
I have activated OldEric: my funny motto to be run by Gmail.
Sunday, April 18, 2004
Journal. The Islands
I have just been reminded. An advert on top of my weblog page advertises " The Real Fiji Experience". Yes it will be an experience. For the past few months it has been the rainy season up in the South Pacific Islands. November to April. The Cyclone season too.
The rains have been more prevalent this year than normal up in the Islands. Flooding has been rife and houses washed away. Emergency funds and help have been supplied by Australia and New Zealand.
Meanwhile holidays are continually being advertised at rock-bottom prices at barely more than the plane fare. Each evening here in NZ the Pacific weather map is shown during the evening news hour with black cloud and lightning symbols continually over the Islands.
This is probably why we have had so much unstable weather this year, our weather is affected by the tropical belt at this time of year.
Why do I continually spell continually... contiually when I know it should be continually? I always do it... contiually.
Three cheers for spell check but its contiual reminder doesn't cure me!!
I have just been reminded. An advert on top of my weblog page advertises " The Real Fiji Experience". Yes it will be an experience. For the past few months it has been the rainy season up in the South Pacific Islands. November to April. The Cyclone season too.
The rains have been more prevalent this year than normal up in the Islands. Flooding has been rife and houses washed away. Emergency funds and help have been supplied by Australia and New Zealand.
Meanwhile holidays are continually being advertised at rock-bottom prices at barely more than the plane fare. Each evening here in NZ the Pacific weather map is shown during the evening news hour with black cloud and lightning symbols continually over the Islands.
This is probably why we have had so much unstable weather this year, our weather is affected by the tropical belt at this time of year.
Why do I continually spell continually... contiually when I know it should be continually? I always do it... contiually.
Three cheers for spell check but its contiual reminder doesn't cure me!!
Journal. John and Edith again
John and Edith will now have their feet firmly planted on NZ soil. Their plane was due in at Auckland Airport two and a half hours ago at 5 a.m. And so were 9 other long-haul Jumbo's due in too around this time. The Airport will be busy. An empty airport and then 2000-3000 people milling around.
It brings back memories.
John and Edith will now have their feet firmly planted on NZ soil. Their plane was due in at Auckland Airport two and a half hours ago at 5 a.m. And so were 9 other long-haul Jumbo's due in too around this time. The Airport will be busy. An empty airport and then 2000-3000 people milling around.
It brings back memories.
Journal. This and That
Pat decided to paint the redwood fence again. We rubbed the fence down and washed away the lichen on Friday and put the first coat on, on Saturday. Worn out on Sunday and declared Sunday a day of rest. Anyway Pat has 2 meetings today. First is the Church Vestry meeting and in the evening the Bird Club meeting which she cannot miss, Pat is still President. We will put the second coat of paint on the fence tomorrow, Monday.
The weather is now stable, we have had morning fog these past few days which heralds a fine sunny morning by 9 a.m. and stunning early autumn days. The long term forecast says this weather will continue.
Pat decided to paint the redwood fence again. We rubbed the fence down and washed away the lichen on Friday and put the first coat on, on Saturday. Worn out on Sunday and declared Sunday a day of rest. Anyway Pat has 2 meetings today. First is the Church Vestry meeting and in the evening the Bird Club meeting which she cannot miss, Pat is still President. We will put the second coat of paint on the fence tomorrow, Monday.
The weather is now stable, we have had morning fog these past few days which heralds a fine sunny morning by 9 a.m. and stunning early autumn days. The long term forecast says this weather will continue.
Thursday, April 15, 2004
Journal. John and Edith
They will have now flown out from Manchester Airport by British Airways. John says they are staying over in LA and then fly by Qantas to Auckland arriving Sunday.
Geoff will meet them off the plane at the Airport. Anna is still in Arizona and will not be back until the middle of next week. Apparently Anna is enjoying her farriers course at the ranch, Geoff tells us. We look forward to hear of her adventures.
They will have now flown out from Manchester Airport by British Airways. John says they are staying over in LA and then fly by Qantas to Auckland arriving Sunday.
Geoff will meet them off the plane at the Airport. Anna is still in Arizona and will not be back until the middle of next week. Apparently Anna is enjoying her farriers course at the ranch, Geoff tells us. We look forward to hear of her adventures.
Journal. Two Weeks of Retirement
Well here I am 2 weeks into retirement. I still feel a sense of relief having no longer obligations to my customers, I can now refuse incoming jobs. Not that I have had many come in.
It feels more like being on holiday, I feel relaxed in myself. I have been pottering around the garden doing odd jobs. Planting tomatoes in the glasshouse and sowing seeds trays for winter and early spring bloom.
That reminds me I must get some Pansy seed. Pansies grow well through our NZ winter.
Well here I am 2 weeks into retirement. I still feel a sense of relief having no longer obligations to my customers, I can now refuse incoming jobs. Not that I have had many come in.
It feels more like being on holiday, I feel relaxed in myself. I have been pottering around the garden doing odd jobs. Planting tomatoes in the glasshouse and sowing seeds trays for winter and early spring bloom.
That reminds me I must get some Pansy seed. Pansies grow well through our NZ winter.
Saturday, April 10, 2004
Journal. Easter
Gillian came over from Whitianga on Thursday before Good Friday to pick up Tahlia and Ashlee from Sacred Heart School. They all stayed overnight. Gillian also brought over Caitlin with her. The house was certainly lively.
Caitlin's leg is now better but she is still under observation.
Gillian and Paul have another new car, another GM Holden 3.5 litre. Gillian has bought an old car for Tahlia to practise with for her driving license... bright yellow. It will do for Ashlee to learn in next year when she is old enough.
The school holiday's are tacked on to Easter, Tahlia and Ashlee have managed to retain their part time jobs for the holiday period.
We stayed at home this Easter and just relaxed.
Gillian came over from Whitianga on Thursday before Good Friday to pick up Tahlia and Ashlee from Sacred Heart School. They all stayed overnight. Gillian also brought over Caitlin with her. The house was certainly lively.
Caitlin's leg is now better but she is still under observation.
Gillian and Paul have another new car, another GM Holden 3.5 litre. Gillian has bought an old car for Tahlia to practise with for her driving license... bright yellow. It will do for Ashlee to learn in next year when she is old enough.
The school holiday's are tacked on to Easter, Tahlia and Ashlee have managed to retain their part time jobs for the holiday period.
We stayed at home this Easter and just relaxed.
Monday, April 05, 2004
Journal. Monday Morning
Although I have retired a few phone calls have been logged on my mail box. Two queries and 2 jobs. I say yes to the jobs, they are old customers, they will be small jobs and straight forward.
There were not too many calls in the weeks prior to retiring. In a small town my retirement soon passes by word of mouth and people begin to look for a replacement source of expertise.
I will probably accept 1 or 2 jobs from old customers when it suits. It will keep my hand in and I can take my time.
Although I have retired a few phone calls have been logged on my mail box. Two queries and 2 jobs. I say yes to the jobs, they are old customers, they will be small jobs and straight forward.
There were not too many calls in the weeks prior to retiring. In a small town my retirement soon passes by word of mouth and people begin to look for a replacement source of expertise.
I will probably accept 1 or 2 jobs from old customers when it suits. It will keep my hand in and I can take my time.
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Saturday, February 28, 2004
Journal. Our Wet Summer
The wet weather is with us once more. Today we are being drenched from a low which started to develop off the northern east coast of Australia, off Brisbane a few days ago and then moved fast to-wards the North Island of NZ.
Waiting in the wings is a topical cyclone just south of Fiji which has passed through the neighbouring Pacific lslands. We are due to get the tail end of it when our present spell of bad weather passes. So more rain to come and high winds as the cyclone tail passes down the east coast of NZ.
Every day the South Pacific weather map shows tropical rain and lightning. Even though it is the cyclone season up there, it is abnormal.
We, here in NZ have been having abnormal rain since early December with fine spells in between. Our garden is reaching jungle proportions from the rain and the heat. Usually we are well into summer drought conditions by now.
We look forward to normally stable Autumn conditions and maybe a dry warm and sunny winter.
The wet weather is with us once more. Today we are being drenched from a low which started to develop off the northern east coast of Australia, off Brisbane a few days ago and then moved fast to-wards the North Island of NZ.
Waiting in the wings is a topical cyclone just south of Fiji which has passed through the neighbouring Pacific lslands. We are due to get the tail end of it when our present spell of bad weather passes. So more rain to come and high winds as the cyclone tail passes down the east coast of NZ.
Every day the South Pacific weather map shows tropical rain and lightning. Even though it is the cyclone season up there, it is abnormal.
We, here in NZ have been having abnormal rain since early December with fine spells in between. Our garden is reaching jungle proportions from the rain and the heat. Usually we are well into summer drought conditions by now.
We look forward to normally stable Autumn conditions and maybe a dry warm and sunny winter.
Tuesday, February 24, 2004
Friday, February 20, 2004
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
Journal. Ashlee's teeth
Yesterday, Monday we took Ashlee to Thames (in NZ) to have her braces checked and then return her to Sacred Heart School where she boards.
We set off at 7.20 a.m. and arrived back home by 11.30 a.m. most of the time spent driving. That also included spending a little time having a peek at a house Anthony has an interest in buying. He has a few reservations about it and he will look again on Wednesday.
Yesterday, Monday we took Ashlee to Thames (in NZ) to have her braces checked and then return her to Sacred Heart School where she boards.
We set off at 7.20 a.m. and arrived back home by 11.30 a.m. most of the time spent driving. That also included spending a little time having a peek at a house Anthony has an interest in buying. He has a few reservations about it and he will look again on Wednesday.
Saturday, February 14, 2004
Journal. A Party
Today is Saturday and a lunchtime birthday party had been arranged for me. We went to Hamilton Casino (and here too) and had a long leisurely lunch with family only.
Everyone enjoyed the outing, even the children. The Casino café is set up high overlooking the Waikato River and our table was along side the glass wall and a panoramic view.
We spent over 3 hours here, eating from the buffet, chatting and then sitting on the sunny outer deck with coffee. Some including Pat spent time in the gambling hall trying for the Merecedes sports car but without luck.
We all had a lovely time vowing to "do" it again soon.
Oh, and it was Valentine's Day too.
Today is Saturday and a lunchtime birthday party had been arranged for me. We went to Hamilton Casino (and here too) and had a long leisurely lunch with family only.
Everyone enjoyed the outing, even the children. The Casino café is set up high overlooking the Waikato River and our table was along side the glass wall and a panoramic view.
We spent over 3 hours here, eating from the buffet, chatting and then sitting on the sunny outer deck with coffee. Some including Pat spent time in the gambling hall trying for the Merecedes sports car but without luck.
We all had a lovely time vowing to "do" it again soon.
Oh, and it was Valentine's Day too.
Saturday, February 07, 2004
Journal. Waitangi Day
A long weekend and another public holiday. Today the Treaty of Waitangi is celebrated by a few only. Today the majority of the population do not believe in the Treaty of Waitangi and are openly scornful of it.
I think within a few years the Treaty of Waitangi will no longer exist and the population of New Zealand will breathe a collective sigh of relief.
A long weekend and another public holiday. Today the Treaty of Waitangi is celebrated by a few only. Today the majority of the population do not believe in the Treaty of Waitangi and are openly scornful of it.
I think within a few years the Treaty of Waitangi will no longer exist and the population of New Zealand will breathe a collective sigh of relief.
Thursday, January 29, 2004
Journal. Tahlia and Ashlee again
Tahlia started back at Sacred Heart this morning. On her return to Huntly I took her up to the examination office for her driving license written exam. She passed with flying colours. A fee of $80.00 is required.
On Monday along with Gillian and Paul and Tahlia we took Ashlee to Sacred Heart boarding accommodation. The rooms are so-ooo small. She quickly made friends with the other 4th form boarders and an outgoing girl from Taramanui took her in hand. Ashlee is 14 now and quiet with a dry sense of humour. Three days later she is enjoying her new home for the next 3 years or so.
Tahlia arriving back at school looked her up the first day to check that she was finding things ok. Tahlia is like that, thoughtful.
Pat has got gout again. She must drink more water. The weather is so hot and humid at present, I will do the shopping again today.
Tahlia started back at Sacred Heart this morning. On her return to Huntly I took her up to the examination office for her driving license written exam. She passed with flying colours. A fee of $80.00 is required.
On Monday along with Gillian and Paul and Tahlia we took Ashlee to Sacred Heart boarding accommodation. The rooms are so-ooo small. She quickly made friends with the other 4th form boarders and an outgoing girl from Taramanui took her in hand. Ashlee is 14 now and quiet with a dry sense of humour. Three days later she is enjoying her new home for the next 3 years or so.
Tahlia arriving back at school looked her up the first day to check that she was finding things ok. Tahlia is like that, thoughtful.
Pat has got gout again. She must drink more water. The weather is so hot and humid at present, I will do the shopping again today.
Sunday, January 25, 2004
Journal. Tahlia and Ashlee
Today is Sunday. Tahlia returns today to us to start next week her 6th form and probably final year at Sacred Heart Girls College.
Ashlee too will start this week as a boarder at Sacred Heart for the first time in the 4th form.
Gillian and Paul are coming over from Whitianga to see Ashlee firmly settled in the boarding house. I do hope she likes it.
Today is Sunday. Tahlia returns today to us to start next week her 6th form and probably final year at Sacred Heart Girls College.
Ashlee too will start this week as a boarder at Sacred Heart for the first time in the 4th form.
Gillian and Paul are coming over from Whitianga to see Ashlee firmly settled in the boarding house. I do hope she likes it.
Monday, January 19, 2004
Journal. The Bird Club BBQ
It is Sunday and today is the Bird Club BBQ. A fine hot day was forecast and visitors came from Auckland too. Fred Rix showed up with his new friend Cath. They seemed happy and Cath was a nice person to talk to. Fred does well it must be a few years now since attending his 70th. birthday.
Alan Foote had been down the bush shooting and he brought fresh venison to the BBQ for everyone. Some say venison tastes "gamy". These steaks didn't, they were delicious. The deer had probably been feeding on the sweet bush foliage.
The BBQ was a success if the happy smiling faces was anything to go by.
It is Sunday and today is the Bird Club BBQ. A fine hot day was forecast and visitors came from Auckland too. Fred Rix showed up with his new friend Cath. They seemed happy and Cath was a nice person to talk to. Fred does well it must be a few years now since attending his 70th. birthday.
Alan Foote had been down the bush shooting and he brought fresh venison to the BBQ for everyone. Some say venison tastes "gamy". These steaks didn't, they were delicious. The deer had probably been feeding on the sweet bush foliage.
The BBQ was a success if the happy smiling faces was anything to go by.
Tuesday, January 06, 2004
Journal. Caitlin Monday report
Caitlin has been taken off the antibiotic drip and now taking oral antibiotics. If successful the doctor says she should be able to go home on Tuesday.
Her leg plaster cast (to hold the pus drain in place) has been cut ready for removal when she reaches home.
Caitlin is now back to her usual cheery self and Gillian looks better. Gillian and Paul went shopping today and Caitlin was happy to be in our charge, so she must be feeling better.
Its a relief to everyone.
Caitlin has been taken off the antibiotic drip and now taking oral antibiotics. If successful the doctor says she should be able to go home on Tuesday.
Her leg plaster cast (to hold the pus drain in place) has been cut ready for removal when she reaches home.
Caitlin is now back to her usual cheery self and Gillian looks better. Gillian and Paul went shopping today and Caitlin was happy to be in our charge, so she must be feeling better.
Its a relief to everyone.
Monday, January 05, 2004
Journal. Caitlin Sunday Report
Caitlin was much improved yesterday. Twenty four hours has made a vast improvement to her, she is still on the antibiotic drip and possibly for a further 24 hours. Gillian looked better although still pale, she too has had a harrowing ordeal.
Gillian, Pat and I took Caitlin for a walk in the wheelchair to the cafeteria, down the lift 1 floor, down a passage and then up a lift again 2 floors. Caitlin enjoyed her cafeteria visit I think.
Monday's doctor's examination should give us some news of her progress.
Caitlin was much improved yesterday. Twenty four hours has made a vast improvement to her, she is still on the antibiotic drip and possibly for a further 24 hours. Gillian looked better although still pale, she too has had a harrowing ordeal.
Gillian, Pat and I took Caitlin for a walk in the wheelchair to the cafeteria, down the lift 1 floor, down a passage and then up a lift again 2 floors. Caitlin enjoyed her cafeteria visit I think.
Monday's doctor's examination should give us some news of her progress.
Sunday, January 04, 2004
Journal. Caitlin again
We travelled back from Whitianga yesterday to Waikato Hospital. She is not too well. Her leg is poisoned and she continues on a 24 antibiotic drip.
Her ankle joint has been scanned for infection which is clear fortunately. A further MRI scan shows infection around the bone and her leg was operated on and drained on Friday.
She is very sore and in pain and has been mildly sedated with morphine patches. She also has had to take unpleasant oral sedatives to which she becomes fractious and administration becomes difficult. Changing arm drip entry points is painful too for her.
Caitlin looks worn out and so does Gillian, she has been sleeping alongside Caitlin's bed each night.
Hopefully and a little luck will see her improve over the next 2 days. To see her and watch her is difficult, it gives one a feeling of helplessness. I don't think she really trusts the hospital staff... their necessary interference with her usually equals pain.
We are staying at least 2 days at Anthony's flat in Hamilton.
We travelled back from Whitianga yesterday to Waikato Hospital. She is not too well. Her leg is poisoned and she continues on a 24 antibiotic drip.
Her ankle joint has been scanned for infection which is clear fortunately. A further MRI scan shows infection around the bone and her leg was operated on and drained on Friday.
She is very sore and in pain and has been mildly sedated with morphine patches. She also has had to take unpleasant oral sedatives to which she becomes fractious and administration becomes difficult. Changing arm drip entry points is painful too for her.
Caitlin looks worn out and so does Gillian, she has been sleeping alongside Caitlin's bed each night.
Hopefully and a little luck will see her improve over the next 2 days. To see her and watch her is difficult, it gives one a feeling of helplessness. I don't think she really trusts the hospital staff... their necessary interference with her usually equals pain.
We are staying at least 2 days at Anthony's flat in Hamilton.
Saturday, January 03, 2004
Journal. Last day of October
I put up the Gazebo first thing this morning. The day I put up the Gazebo is the day I consider the 1st day of summer. It will stay up now until the end of May. I then dragged out the 4 ft. round glass topped table and the 4 lounger chairs and cushioning. This will be my domain for the next 6 to 7 months.
Lunch is always eaten here by Pat and I providing the day is fine and breakfast by me also if the early morning is warm. This is my brother John's favourite place also when he is on his periodic visits from the UK.
I spend the mid summer hot afternoons here also when it is too hot to do anything else. Oh, it is good summer is here again!
I put up the Gazebo first thing this morning. The day I put up the Gazebo is the day I consider the 1st day of summer. It will stay up now until the end of May. I then dragged out the 4 ft. round glass topped table and the 4 lounger chairs and cushioning. This will be my domain for the next 6 to 7 months.
Lunch is always eaten here by Pat and I providing the day is fine and breakfast by me also if the early morning is warm. This is my brother John's favourite place also when he is on his periodic visits from the UK.
I spend the mid summer hot afternoons here also when it is too hot to do anything else. Oh, it is good summer is here again!
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