Hi Everyone,
December already! Oh, oh, oh! No 'Ho, ho, ho' just yet please. I know that many of you are having to put up with snow already so hope that this photo makes you feel warmer (and just a tiny bit jealous?) The photo is of our beach, we only had the road to cross from the garden to get there. Chickens are a problem - especially the roosters. They do not seem to realise that they only have to crow as it gets light not every hour on the hour plus countless times between. I kept on mentioning Christmas dinner but to no avail.
Don't worry. We did have to suffer there in Rarotonga (Cook Islands)!!! The mozzies were out in force - I have never had so many bites although I was lucky in that they did not itch. It did rain, but it was warm and the sea was warmer than Christchurch is at the moment (not difficult) plus the lagoon made it extra safe for the children. You just had to avoid stepping on the sea cucumbers! We went for a trip in a glass-bottomed boat where we snorkeled and glimpsed all the colourful fish in the lagoon followed by a barbecue of fresh tuna, plus entertainment - part of which was Matt and Roy. I believe Ash has the video!
We ate fresh coconut - they fell off the palm, then Malc dehusked them and we ate the creamy flesh. A neighbour brought round pawpaws from her sister's tree for us to enjoy. It is a lovely place to go. Food is expensive as it all has to be imported from NZ but, hey, it is an island in the South Pacific! I really liked the idea of 'Island time' and would like to go back. The night flight home was a trial and we were all so, so tired yesterday but, hopefully, will be restored to our usual energetic selves (!!!!!!!) soon.
Only two weeks of school left then it is Christmas, New Year and the long summer holiday. Lots to do before then. I am not sure about the Xmas card situation this year as I think I have missed the last posting date for overseas so I will wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year and hope that your card catches up with you sometime in 2011. All my love Carol xx
