December in Cambridge, NZ

Greeting from New Zealand!

We have been very busy. We have traveled to both coasts now. On the West coast, we visited Raglin and Kawhia (pronounced Kawhia). The sand is black on the west coast - volcanoes - and the waves are impressive. The kids have been having a great time playing in the surf. We bought wet suits. Don't they look like Kiwis? Raglan and Kawhia are over many a sheep covered hill through impossibly curvy, windy roads. The country side is absolutely amazing. the surf was wild and we had a great time watching the surfers - happy to be on shore. In Kawhia, we dug a pool that filled with hot thermal water, creating our own seaside hot tub. It was lovely and warm. We had to watch out for hot spots - the water comes in so hot that you could burn yourself.
We traveled to Mount Munganui with Ray, Krista and Lily to see the East Coast. The sand is blond on this side of the island and the swimming is better. The beaches are not too crowded yet but summer vacation starts this week.
Flowers - they are everywhere and only come in huge size. Other thoughts? We are now proud car owners and taking advantage of our freedom to zoom about. I am driving now - Kate said I don't do too bad of a job either - Thanks Kate. Roundabouts are everywhere and I am less panicky when Paul is driving - I am not sure he would say the same yet when he is the passenger.

I have to mention that we went to Hamilton for their Santa Claus Parade which was fabulous. We even saw the largest edible float - made of chocolate. Kate thought the parade was great but "why is Christmas now when it is hot?"

We are moving off for the next couple of weeks - going North? We don't know yet but we will keep you informed. ttfn Sharon

Kawhia - this is our hot tub by the sea..

The crew on a hill somewhere in NZ

Surfing the dunes?

Kate and Dora at the Santa Claus Parade

Greyhound Racing is huge here

Santa Claus Parade

Wild Weeds?

Can you see how big things grow here?

Sisters in the surf

Kiwi girls?In their new wet suits.

Kate

Growing up?

Checing out the surfers off the far bluff - it is way bigger than it looks from here.

The edible float - yum

Mira at the Hamilton Gardens

Just goofing around.