Saturday, January 29, 2011

A Dwindling Southern Hemisphere Summer

It's been great to be back in Otorohanga, working and hanging out with friends in the last few weeks of summer break.

Blake spent a lot of time with a buddy of his named Glen and one day they returned filthy after collecting metal at the railroad tracks which they then sold to the local metal yard, making a little cash.  Both kids had a friend over for a sleepover in the first few days back and the day after, Blake was knackered. Note the dirty feet and remote.



We went to the horse races in Hamilton (45 minutes north).  The kids told me it was more fun than they expected, something they have said often after the activities I plan.  We kept our wagers low and walked away a few dollars lighter but had a great time.


The kids have also spent quite a few hot days at "the river", which is a section of the Waipa River that attracts kids and adults looking for a cool down.  Look closely for Blake in the center of the first picture, flat on a rock.  Liza and her friends are in the second picture next to the rapids with boys that were "bothering" them.


We had a few days of enough rain to flood the river above, which is still closed and one of the main roads in Oto slipped away.  Blake and his friend, Ryan made the most of the rain.



It must be that time of year when baby birds are hatching.  I had a few in my wall at work, that have since gotten out, and this one below helped herself to our left-overs at lunch.  She left with a beakfull of chicken, so we think she was taking it to her chicks.  Does anyone else find it odd that sparrows eat chicken?


Today, Liza's friends organized a surprise late birthday and going away party for her at the town pools.  The kids had a great time and the 3 girls are spending the night tonight at our house. 

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