The wild west

We are still in the land of the living, for all those who were wondering.  Currently the kids and I are at my Mum's (Liam had to come over for a course and we decided to join him to see Nan) and having the first spare moment to write.  We are still waiting for Telstra Clear to grace us with their presence and provide phone and Internet service......in the mean time it is quick trips down to the library.

I wrote this on 12 July, just after we arrived in Hokitika, thinking that I would post it soon after........hmmmm.  Anyway I'll post it now and then update again when we can.  Just after this we had a deluge so maybe my picturesque images were a little premature! 

The clouds hang low and long around the mountains, with varying shades of blue distinguishing each range, as we sit to eat afternoon tea.  Today feels like a real west coast day after being blessed yesterday with sun and blue sky.  It is how it should be.....the scenery dressed in clouds and mist, making the outlook mysterious and magical in one.  See I do love the cost and my wallow is subsiding ;)

Our farewell to Kapiti began at 4am Friday (6th July) as the excitement was too much for Jasmine.  Getting everything prepared, including the goldfish in her travel bag, and packed into the car while Daniel and our friends slept seemed a little surreal. We'd said our goodbyes and now it was just the journey to the South Island to focus on - no house, no packing, just us and a car-ful of belongings. Four am starts and ferry delays don't aid much in driving so it was a V filled trip with rescue remedy for the panic and sadness thrown in.  Pleased to say that neither have been used since! 

The kids on the ferry entering Picton

We arrived late at Mum's and our time in Christchurch was glorious as the ground rested and the sun shone.  Last time I was there (here) I remember being quite fearful to go to town (my Mum lives 40 mins south which is where we stay) however this time so many fond memories of places flooded in that not once did I think anything untoward would occur.  The kids loved catching up with friends and family, seeing places which occurred in Liam and my stories and exploring Nan's trees.

Being in the South Island and not being with Liam only made the longing stronger so on Tuesday (10th July) we packed up again and headed over the hill midst snowy paddocks and icy lakes to arrive late afternoon in Hokitika.

 Testing out the frozen Lake Lyndon

Our place (where we are renting) is a little way out of Hokitika town and though we still lack a connection to the world we aren't feeling too isolated as we have neighbours close and plenty of sheep, cows, chickens and horses (courtesy of the neighbours) to keep us company.

The kids in the back yard.

Hope this finds you all happy, healthy and warm.
Arohanui Y
www.becominghealthy.co.nz