Three Years On

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We have been in New Zealand for three years now, and we have had quite a busy week.

On Monday while I was at my camera club evening, Claire was at a social do hosted by the head of the History department at Massey. On Tuesday we celebrated our three years in NZ anniversary by inviting Ryan round for diner, and having a very nice caramel cheesecake from The Cheesecake Shop and an excellent bottle of wine. Nicky had Life Group on Wednesday, and then Thursday evening was work for Claire and quilting for Nicky. This meant that Friday was our only "quiet" evening we had together at home. Claire cooked us chili and rice.

Our day time activities have been pretty routine. Nicky has been busy at work as ever and Claire has been busy with lectures and assignments. I have had some Mac work too.

We have been getting storm warnings for a couple of days. The edge of a big storm system has been approaching us, but the bulk of the impact has been on the South Island and the central and southern areas of the North Island. We have just caught the edge of it here in Auckland, so we have been having strong winds and heavy showers. These really arrived yesterday, but we still managed to get three loads of washing dry as the sun and wind in between the showers was good for the laundry. We could see the rain approaching over the Waitakere's so could rush out and get it off the line before it arrived.

Nicky and I have had another quiet day today. We went for a walk this afternoon to explore some more of the Bay area and got quite wet when a heavy shower arrived. Nicky made scones for our Sunday tea which was more than adequate compensation.

So, three years on life in England is really becoming quite a distant memory. We have settled into the rhythm of Kiwi life, become accustomed to the nature of the weather, and continue to take pleasure in the beaches and scenery. The economy is still causing some difficulty, but I don't think things have been as bad here as in the UK. We are getting to know people and they are getting to know us. Ultimately, life is not so different here. Though there are more palm trees.

Bye for now,
Rick

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