…is taking a wee bit longer than anticipated.  I’ts not far off finished now, I have uploaded some pictures   here but will save the finished one’ til we’ve got all our stuff in.  Marks done a really good job, I think he has even impressed himself!

We’ve got all the mod cons, heater, shower, bedside lamps, cooker, fridge, even a hairdryer that plugs into the cigarette lighter (except I think I could dry my hair faster by breathing on it!), double bed, toilet sink ( ahem…washing up bowl) etc etc. We are both getting excited about setting off now. We have booked the next two nights here, so whatever happens on Monday, we’re off. Keep your fingers crossed.

Yesterday whilst looking for a leisure battery for the van we stopped for lunch in a beautiful place called Mission Bay (north coast of Auckland)- some of the pics are  here, but I will load the rest later. It was so pretty, and the sun was shining all day so it was great to be walking along the beach. 

The sand was made from crushed shells, and there were still some really big whole shells along the shoreline. Loads of seagulls squwaking at each other and fighting over leftover chips, which was quite funny to watch. I have to say it beats sitting in the office on a Friday afternoon!

 I am hoping for a night on the tiles tonight, if Mark isn’t too knackered. It can be a bit dodgy round here at night – there is a road called Karangahape Road ( or K road as the locals call it) where you can find ladies (and ladyboys) of the night, transvestites and other interesting people milling around! Some weirdo sat next to me on the bus the other day up there ( I was the only passenger and he picked the seat next to me!!) and started quoting biblical quotes to me! I had to get off the bus about 5 stops early, I was bloody terrified.

Hope you are all well, I believe the weather has improved so hoopefully you’ll get a few weeks of sun.

 take care

love Gill

p.s Hope you have a good time at Leeds festival Garry, stay away from the ketchup this time!!

p.p.s  Yes thanks Anna, I have just heard the news today Jill, congratulations to you and Andy on your engagement, just don’t get married until we come for a visit!! xoxo