How long was the flight??

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Oh my God - am shattered!! 30hours to get here! I arrived on Monday....and it is long long way to New Zealand. Huge thanks to Karen for saving her Saturday for me and taking me to Heathrow....and for keeping me sane whilst waiting in the rather long check out queue. I did have just about enough time to do a shop (had had my orders for chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate from the girls, plus ok magazines and yes, more chocolate).

My theory was not to sleep on the first leg of the journey and try to get into my new time zone quickly - that was fine as had much a big choice of movies I just watched three back to back. Then I was out like a light from Dubai to Singapore....nothing was going to keep me awake - not even the NZ family I had next to me...the mum just wanted to chat!! Then another stop down in Brisbane before the final leg onto Auckland. I am not sure if it is a good thing or not to beable to have the view from the plane cameras - front or downward...creates a bit of panic when you see how short the runway is and then if you fail to stop...oh yes it will be the sea then.

I had been warned that customs might take me a while but sailed through...and yes, had to tell them about my chocolate - bet they thought I was a right greedy biffer!!

But despite the long journey it was well worth it. When I saw the girls running towards me and hugging me I must admit there was a tear in my eye. But I had especially put on my boots to make sure I was still taller than Georgia (and guess what it was the first thing she did - measure herself). AND yes, I am still taller (only just....)

Really great to see the Simpson Family and meet Aqua (Aqua is their car - just short of a mini bus!). Nic really has painted a bad picture of the house - I think it is lovely and yes, was introduced to ever room (and cupboard, and plant, and drawer). Didn't last long that evening and was tucked up in bed by 8pm....the best 12hours night sleep to follow.

Orewa is about 35km north of Auckland and has a great 3km beach. They live about 10mins away from the beach.

The first week (as it is now Friday) has comprised of me taking the girls to school (them fighting over who will hold my hand), playing round the world with netball (can't say my goal shooting is that good!), going on the trampoline (nearly shat myself!), cycling along the beach after school (it is beautiful and the sun is out today), having morning tea with the Mums (they are all really lovely), finding the ripcurl factory outlet (I just love their clothes), being introduced to the two dollar shop (where Nic has to shop these days as she has no money) and many other chores.

Nic and I went into Auckland on Wednesday and it is nothing like I remember although did have flash backs from when I was here last (with Batesy!!), only this time it wasnt raining. I am amazed at how clean the place is.

There is so much to explore here and Roy is great at suggesting things to do. They have already discovered so much I am well impressed. His DS has also offered to take me walking in the bushland (not sure what Roy has told him about me!!).

Anyway I dont have long on the computer as the girls take it over when they are home so will sign off for now.

First impressions - this is a great place for the Simpson family, lots of outdoor stuff to do. We are taking a BBQ up the coast this evening when the girls and Roy get back.

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Photos

Orewa
View from the girls school at the top of the hill. Look closely and you can see the sea.

My girls!!
Georgia, Tamsin and me the day I arrived!!

Auckland Harbour
Taken from the car!!

Auckland
Trying to be arty

My sister!!
Nic in front of the ferry terminal in Auckland

Oh dear!
Not been on one of these for a while.

Comments

[Batesy]

Cannot believe................
......you said the word "shat" on your blog site. Have you no manners JC?!