Downtown Auckland

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Downtown is a kiwi yarn shop that sells possum wool sweaters that can be washed in the machine. Presently there are 60 million possums in NZ (down from 90 million due to the government controls) that are destroying the existence of the emu by eating their eggs. The yarn is combined with merino wool for a perfect blend.

WHEELS. Picking up a car offers us freedom. However, once Chris drives out onto the road, panic set in since he has to drive on the opposite side of the road, and when there are five lanes plus traffic circles, the brain has to react quickly. Thirty minutes into the drive, an accident occurs directly behind us, and gives us a good shake up. But, the Muriwai Beach offers calm, with beautiful black sparkling sand, and huge colonies of gannet birds.

Oh happy day, I spot a quilt shop. But she does not carry many NZ fabrics, so we go away empty handed. Next stop is for rich ice cream where we meet a couple from England who moved here 43 year ago. After many laughs and good conversation, they invite us to visit them before we leave this area.

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Comments

[Bill and Sue]

The trippin couple
Chris and Kathy Glad to hear the travels are going fairly smoothly despite an occasional over charge. It is fun to learn of your travels and new experiences especially while we are stateside. We are driving to Mpls for a few weeks for some care giving but back the end of march for spring skiing in salt lake. Take care and travel safe as I prayers will be with both of you this trip

[Kate Bennett]

Possum Wool?
Oh, I knew I should have given you a pre-loaded Visa to shop on my behalf!! Possum wool, I'm going to look that up on internet, how cool would that be in a sweater, or even a hat? I wonder if you'll do better buying Kiwi prints in a local market, or ask for local artisans when you're in the next quilt shop. I could not buy tapa cloth in Oahu, the raw stuff would be so nice as a panel in a quilt top. Less so the stiffened, painted stuff. Are you collecting baggies of sand? Your suitcase will weigh a tonne! lol Beautiful beach. Try the driving again a little further from the city, where you can get used to the other side. It's definitely a challenge, I remember well! :) That's why I'm praying, to help keep you safe and beyond such incidents as that. Thank God! xo

[Kate Bennett]

To Bill and Sue!
Hey, just using this opp to say hi and send a hug to two of our favourite people! We think of you guys often and miss you at TIA, the business is poorer for the lack of your participation, Bill. (also known lovingly as Pinky) xo xo