I'm on a Roll

Shhhh....sleeping lions

As promised, photo's from Scott's recent trip to Zambia. He had an amazing adventure, got himself there and back without problem and will remember it forever. I believe he did some work although he seems to always have a beer in his hand in each of his photos! I've included the conference room that he helped to renovate while there. These is also a photo of an elephant checking out the lounge. On one occasion Scott was brushed against as an elephant actually strolled right through the restaurant. Apparently you are supposed to remain still and not draw attention to yourself, fortunately Scott was not injured, unfortunately no-one got a photo. Many thanks to Jen, Mike and Ken for hosting Scott. Here is a link to the lodge: http://marulalodgezambia.com/

Beeeeeeep.....Zap..........Sigh

That's me, breathing new life into this blog!

I know there have been disappointed visits over the previous months but life changes and old things get replaced by the new. That has been the case with me and really, life just keeps on changing. I am no longer working at my previous job (between opportunities is a good description!) and have free time to devote to my neglected friends and family. So thanks for stopping by again and look forward to more comment and photos.

OK....where's that duster!

Merry Christmas

Dearest friends and family - Warm wishes to you all

Another year has almost gone, we are still here but are dreaming of our return.

Jake will be back first, he is looking forward to starting school at St. Kentigern College in Auckland. Grant is going to get him settled into school so I wont get to see Jake again until Easter. He has been warned that he needs to return with marshmallow Easter eggs! I have a few things to organise here like medical, dental checkups and getting every single thing labeled with his name etc. Grant will be busy in NZ organising Jake's school laptop, uniform, books, bank account and so on.

Scott will be staying in Dubai to complete his 'A' levels. Auckland University did not accept his 'AS' levels and although he could have applied to another university he decided to wait it out for another year. We are really wild with them because it has been a huge and expensive hassle to get his results certified and when they were finally happy that they were correctly signed, stamped and authorised they said "great - they're fine, but we wont accept them because they are only AS levels" grrrrr... Anyway, after much thought Scott has decided to complete the school year here and then take a 'gap' year (well almost). He is looking at his options and they include doing some charity work (habitat for humanity?), working in Europe at a 'summer camp' or looking for work back in NZ. Due to the rules in the UAE he cannot be a resident here unless he is in school/university or has a job. I'm sure he will do something worthwhile with his time before starting university in 2011. Please let us know if you have any ideas. It now seems that we are doing the right thing with sending Jake back and he will not have these problems.

My job has been very difficult. The follow on from the school inspections have meant a big increase in workload. I already have a full schedule with students so anything extra ends up being done on the weekend. I don't mind that too much and do it anyway but this is on top of all that stuff, so it is getting ridiculous. Consequently, I have decided not to renew my contract after June. This will free me up to spend the NZ holidays with Jake and Scott. Grant is already pretty flexible and it is easier for him to get leave around the NZ holidays. I told my boss a few days ago and she already has my replacement lined up. So much for being indispensable! The lady was previously offered a job in another department but it was withdrawn due to the economic downturn. This has ended up brilliantly for us all, I don't feel too guilty, she gets a job and if I need to leave earlier for any reason then she will be ready. I may end up doing private tutoring or relieving work - or just come back to NZ :)

Grant is soldiering away. He would love a bit of a change. He will be putting his hand up if there is any opening at Auckland or elsewhere. The karting trip to the world finals was a bit of a disappointment. Again things did not go well for Scott. He still had an amazing time and has some great memories to take away. Grant and Scott will complete the racing season here but it is finally getting too expensive for us. Time to move in a different direction. Scott may end up doing some racing in NZ eventually but a break will be good for the bank balance just now.

We are having a very quiet Xmas, just lazing around home really. We will have a nice lunch tomorrow, hopefully chat to some of you! and drink some good NZ wine that I have put away. The shopping and wrapping is all done but I do have some more cooking to do. Yesterday I made some Xmas mince pies (my first time) they were supposed to be for the neighbours - lets just say...they will stay here. Today went up to the shop and purchased a packet for next door! Hopefully my pavlova will turn out better!

I've added some photos of Jake's leaving party. Our poor neighbours - so much noise. Anyway it was great fun for the kids. Scott did a great job as DJ, he had to put up with me turning it down all the time. We had a shawarma man cook food (a bit like a suvalaki) and they were Delicious. We had quite a bit left over but it all get polished off the next day! Jake's best friend Rory came over from Cyprus for the week which made it extra special.

OK time for me to get back to the kitchen, I'm feeling very relaxed as I've sneaked a beer whilst typing this - that does not look too good for the baking does it!

Have a great Christmas day - we will be thinking of you all.

Love from us all XXXX