We all knew that May would be a busy month - what with mum arriving for her first visit, both the boys birthdays, me starting work and of course the usual variety of sporting events! How time has flown and now we are already half way through June!
Mum arrived safely at the begining of May and adapted pretty quickly to the time zone and lifestyle but never really got the hang of the language......who said they speak english over here?! We had a quiet first week settling mum in and then after Saturday morning footie headed off to the delights of Rotorua. We saw a few sights, rode the famous luge and watched the kids paddle around the lake.
Sporting events now that it is winter! include school cross country, ripper rugby and football. Max continues his swim training and Tom now has his red belt in karate. I think mum felt it was a continual move from one event to the next - she's right! Max has just played in the Ripper Rugby world cup where each school represents a different country. They represented Russia this year (much better that Australia last year!) but were sadly beated in the semi finals by Scotland! They all had a really good day though, especially as it meant friday away from school!
Both boys seemed to enjoy their birthdays which were pretty low key, except for the obligatory 'birthday tea and cake' which went down well as always. Thanks to all who sent cards and presents for them - they were much appreciated and the money was all spent wisely!!!
Other adventures for mum included a day trip to Hamilton to the winter show, complete with medieval village, stock car racing, lumberjacks, chainsaw carving, spongebob squarepants and a host of other similarly related winter events!!!! Neil's car also broke down during that adventure but we were saved by Nige and Bev where we stopped for dinner whilst Neil borrowed his boss's car!
We also visited the Karahgahake Gorge, a beautiful gorge with some fantastic views and walks 
including a 1km railway tunnel - torches and hard hats advised!
including a 1km railway tunnel - torches and hard hats advised!
Tom has finally had his lovely long, golden locks cut off and is sporting a green and red number - very trendy! Neil is keen to let you all know that Tom's footie team (coached by Neil) are as yet unbeated in the league - 2 wins and 3 draws! I think he is hoping to take New Zealand by storm....at least in 8th grade footie!
Our next upcoming big event is the move from the sunshine house (a little cold in winter!) to our new home for now at least. That happens at the begining of July so will be reported on in the July edition! Oh and of course our ski holiday in the middle of July too. We are still waiting for snow on the mountain but are ever hopeful! Until next time......
