Oct 1st - 3rd. Time to do lots for Jeni. A big list for her - bank, bills, pills, etc.
Also it is dear Alison Roberton's funeral today. She was our neighbour at our first Waiheke house for nearly ten years. Patrick and Lesley who we shared the house with also there. It was a lovely celebration of Alison's life. I would meet her at Charlie Farley's for a coffee. I would chat to her over the fence. She would come for drinks. She was one of those people you catch up with at Xmas, and any other time you meet. I would see her going for a swim in rain and shine. She looked fit and I thought she would live forever. I loved her love for her grandchildren, and our children. I cried and cried at this funeral. It was strange. I think it was because she was different and I could see so many similarities with myself and her. I will miss her. Patrick, Lesley and I had an Onetangi, and Waiheke group hug. This is Alison (while I know this is not Onetangi Beach, it could be.)
Then it was off to jab time for our Borneo trip and early next year, South America.
On Oct 2nd it is my godmother's 104th birthday (in Wellington). When I call her she always knows who I am. I usually start by saying guess who? And she says Robs. That's what she always calls me. Bill and I will visit her on the 11th as we will be in Wellington (Te Whanganui-a-Tara). Here she is with Anna at her 100th. And apparently she has not changed much.
Marg lives at Rita Angus Retirement Village in Kilbirnie. She moved there when she was 85. When Bill was involved with Ryman through Direct Capital, he told me the average 'stay' in a village is less than 5 years. Aunty Marg must be one of their most expensive customers! They look after her exceptionally well though, and she is a great story for Ryman too.
I asked her this time "What is the secret to longevity? " She replied, "My loving family and being grateful for every minute of the day." I have started being more grateful for sure. Today I spend the day with Mum again, and travel back to Waiheke in the evening.
Thursday Bill and I fly to Napier (Ahuriri) to visit Bill's Mum - Judy - and his sister Janet and husband Craig and their daughter Zoe. Brother-in-law Dave and his daughter Ana come for a lovely Thai dinner as well. Here is Janet and Bill.
Here is everyone is at the table. From left to right - Craig, Judy, Ana, Bill , Dave, Janet and Zoe. Zoe is due any minute. Sweet Baby Girl is above because she has just had a baby shower.
Ana and Judy. (She is called Jay by all the grandchildren.)
Janet, Zoe and I.
Craig and Judy.
Zoe looks super healthy. Baby Taylor is kicking.
It was wonderful to come to Napier (Ahuriri) for the afternoon and for dinner. Next morning we are heading to Hokitika.
