Biking with friends

Last weekend we took to the tracks near Waihi to cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail. Some people would think coordinating six adults, eight kids and 14 bikes was a recipe for disaster, but we would prove them wrong.

This was, in fact, our third attempt to do the trip. The first time around I broke my arm so that put an end to our plans. The second time cyclone Lusi was looming and we took heed of the severe weather warnings. Really, we decided it would not be a good look if we lot stuck in the storm and needed rescuing with all those kids and ended up on the six o'clock news for all the wrong reasons!

Finally, on our third attempt, we finally got there. The weather could not have been more perfect. The kids were all brilliant considering there was little (or no) preparation.

With the first leg completed we decided we had earned a coffee so took a break at Waikino train station. The kids also scored an ice cream.

The final part of our ride took us through the old goldfields train tunnel. It was about 1km in length and quite dark inside making it difficult to see oncoming cyclists and pedestrians who didn't have lights and/or reflectors.

We got through to the other side, re-grouped, then turned around and came back again.

Mission accomplished!

We back tracked to the halfway point for lunch, encouraging tired, hungry kids along the way. Pizza and a beer!

Some people were happy to take the train from Waikino back to Waihi while others cycled the last leg. Of course the race was on to see who would win. Needless to say, it wasn't me. Those last couple of hills really slowed me down but I hear it was pretty close at the finish line.

Back at the log cabin. There wasn't much room left in the hot tub.

RIP Ben

A few days ago a sweet little kitty was hit by a car. He died instantly. Even though his life was short, it was filled with love and adventure. Ben was adored by his family and friends and will be greatly missed.

Choir girl (2)

After having seen Ruby perform in the choir at the Town Hall a few times, this year it was Ava's turn.

"Dynamite" was a crowd pleaser. Ava wouldn't let me post the video but let me know if you want to see it.

Santa parade

Last weekend Eadie and Ava took part in the Farmer's Santa Parade. We braved the crowds and stood in the scorching sun to see the Minnie Girls pass by. Sadly the music got mixed up so instead of doing their choreographed dance, they waved and high-fived the crowd. 

After the Minnie Girls, my next favourite thing was watching the Man of Steel fly overhead even if it was because he blocked the sun for a fleeting moment.

Then there were some [Kiwi flavoured] classics.

Sadly I didn't get a photo of the man in the red suit. The girls loved taking part and Ruby said next year she wants to do it too. So I' guess I'll get a photo of him then.

Top cat

Our very cute little kitty cat turned one this week. He has grown a bit, well quite a lot actually, but he remains as cute and playful as ever (although we would prefer it if he were a bit more affectionate).

Ben got special cat food treats for his birthday and we celebrated with cat cup cakes.

Happy Birthday Ben!!

Spotty, dotty t-shirt

This post is going to be accompanied by a brief explanation as I'm not very good at typing with my left hand.

I saw this "how-to" on the web a while back and put it in the "must do" compartment of my brain. I was going through my t-shirts on the weekend, looking for a particular top that had been swallowed up by the overflowing drawer. I came across a plain, black t-shirt and, with a bit of spare time on my hands, knew that today was the day to reach into the "must do" pile.

It was really easy and I had all of the necessary equipment on hand which was a bonus. Ruby watched me do it and we both got excited as the little dots appeared – it was like watching a Polaroid develop! I thought the final product was pretty cool but when your twelve year old daughter says "Wow, that looks like a Karen Walker top," you know you're onto a winner!

You should definitely try this at home.

Upholstery 103: ski slope chair

This is my latest work of art. It's a ski slope chair for Ruby's room. The grey fabric is almost like an army blanket and the pink piping adds contrast and a bit of fun. Considering the ugly duckling was a freebie, I think it has turned out quite nice.

Before:

After: