BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!

Subject: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 09:23 AM

Limpit and myself are off tomorrow evening to the delights of New Zealand - yes, travelling on the 13th! Thank the deities it's not a Friday...

The reason we're going is because my mother who lives there is not particularly well, she had a series of seizures or strokes earlier in the year and she's not improving as she should. So we're off to visit her for a couple of weeks, mainly so Limpit can have some lasting memories of her granny whom she's not seen since she was 2.

So... if you can spare some, a few good thoughts would be much appreciated.

I'll try and look in whilst we're there, as well as posting the odd picture or two to our Flickr account, but I can't guarantee anything as my sister has a terrible record with computers - she breaks them as often as Spaw breaks wind so you'll understand if I can't post at all!

I'm taking the latest installment of the family history over with me which should keep her quiet for a while, as well as some locally available cloth (Sari fabric and Kente cloth - I live in that sort of area!) and I get to meet for the first time, two nieces and two step-nephews, hopefully!

Although it's not her first flight, it's Limpit's longest, somehow I don't think I have a big enough cabin bag to hold all the books we'll need between us... but the MP3s are loaded, we've stocked up on spare batteries and I've put in a clean pair of pants each.

Here's trusting Manitas to look after my tits, and water the lettuces, and not rearrange the furniture whilst I'm away (unless it's swapping the sofas back, it doesn't work the way it is now...)

See you in 3 weeks if not before!

LTS and Limpit

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 09:25 AM

Most importantly, last but not least, thank you to everyone who has been so kind and helpful, you know who you are and what you did... thank you.

(((Hugs)))

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: gnu
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 09:28 AM

Safe journey. Bon voyage!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Rapparee
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 10:30 AM

Have a boring, dull, totally sleepy, flight.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 11:11 AM

I said it earlier on the phone and I'll say it here, Have a safe and pleasant journey and a fantastic time. Hope your mother improves and Phoebe makes some lovely memories with her Granny.

Love to you both and we'll see you when you get back

Khatt, Paul, Harry, George and Amelia xxxx

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: SINSULL
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 11:25 AM

Safe trip, Liz, and happy memories for Phoebe.
M

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 11:42 AM

Have a safe and comfortable trip, you two. It's under difficult circumstances, so try to pamper yourself a bit, if possible. We'll look forward to whatever news you can send, and I hope you're able to connect with other Mudcatters in the area.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 12:25 PM

Fare well and may you find things improved when you get there. If not, we're here for you in whatever way might be helpful. I saw my grandma for the last time when I was thirteen and I was always grateful for that last visit. Take care of yourself, LtS, first.

kat

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 12:49 PM

All best wishes to you both for a good trip. Hope the sun shines for you as it did this morning in Dorset!

Kitty

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Leadfingers
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 01:58 PM

Have a good trip Liz (AND Limpet) !!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 04:02 PM

Thanks everyone, and KatLaughing, that's exactly why I'm taking her with me this time. I only hope that her school is as understanding! :D

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: bfdk
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 05:40 PM

Is New Zealand ready for this, I wonder? Have they been duly warned?

Have a great trip!

Bente

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 07:06 PM

Have a safe and wonderful visit. It will be autumn when you arrive, approaching summer when you return. Travel safely and well, and savor the time with your mother and the rest of your family.

Allison

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Maryrrf
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 07:35 PM

That's wonderful Liz. I hope you and Limpet have a great time and take lots of pictures.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: maire-aine
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 08:03 PM

Have a safe, wonderful trip, Liz & Limpet.

Maryanne

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Little Robyn
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 01:20 AM

PM sent.
Robyn in NZ

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Janie
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 01:24 AM

Good thoughts, LTS, and also have a great trip!

I'll virtually water any virtual lettuce that needs tending!

Janie

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: open mike
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 01:28 AM

happy trails!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 06:48 AM

OO-er... leaving in 5 hours for the airport... did I pack my knickers?

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Barry Finn
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 03:16 PM

Forget the knickers, don't forget the video camera, the camera & the recorder. I hope you find wonderful things to do while you're in NZ

Barry

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: skarpi
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 04:46 PM

I am feeling like I am a new member of mudcat ?? I am gettin news
here like I have never been here ,

strange ,

where have I been ?

all the best Skarpi

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: katlaughing
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 11:06 PM

I hope it is not too sad for you, LtS. I would think there'd be some bittersweet. To heck with the school if they can't understand the need to go. It is a GOOD thing you are doing.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 11:40 PM

Where in the world would she be about now? If she left at est. 2pm London time on Monday, how long does it take to fly to New Zealand? How many stops are there, typically?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Gurney
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 12:24 AM

Probably about 20 hours actually in the air, one stop usually but not invariably, about 24 hours minimum journey time, with a boring refuelling stop.


Hope they're walking around the 'plane and drinking plenty of water. Long flights are not good for you.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 03:15 AM

I think Liz said they were flying about 10pm Monday and would arrive wednesday dinner time NZ time.....but I'm sure Manitas can confirm times etc.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 06:44 AM

I took them to the airport and waited until they were checked in. We were far too early as there was surprisingly lttle traffic on the roads for a Bank Holiday Monday. I haven't heard from them but have checked the Emirates website and the flight to Auckland (EK406) seems to have taken off on time. I found a flight tracker but according to that they have already touched down at Melbourne and are crossing to Auckland now! I don't think so!

Here's the details;

Flight Status
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Search Results From Dubai, Dubai International Airport, United Arab Emirates (DXB)
To Auckland, Auckland International Airport, New Zealand (AKL)
Flight number EK406

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Departing Tuesday, 14 April, 2009 Modify search


EK406 Dubai, United Arab Emirates to Auckland, New Zealand   Date Airport Time Time Terminal Status
Departing Tue 14 Apr 09 Dubai International Airport (DXB) 10:10 | Scheduled 10:12 | Departed T3 IN FLIGHT
Arriving Wed 15 Apr 09 Tullamarine International Airport (MEL) 05:30 | Scheduled 05:29 | Estimated T2

Continuation
Departing Wed 15 Apr 09 Tullamarine International Airport (MEL) 07:15 | Scheduled 07:15 | Estimated T2 NOT YET DEPARTED

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Little Robyn
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 07:34 AM

OK, it's almost midnight NZ time - 11:34pm Tuesday, to be a bit more accurate.
That's 7:34 am Mudcat time.
Is their arrival am or pm?
If they leave Melbourne at 7:17, it's a 3hour flight approx but we're 2 hours further on so that would make it about 12:00!
Lunchtime or midnight?
So it's either another 12 hours or another 24 hours.
Robyn

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 07:57 AM

It's a 16 hour flight from Dubai so I reckon thats midnight

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 11:50 AM

"Did I pack my knickers?"
Did you remeber to wear them?

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Micca
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 01:35 PM

Sins, this is almost a squeakism!! for several years she arrived at a certain UK folk festival with either 20 pairs of socks and 1 pair of knickers or vice versa, It became a source of amusement to her friends as it was always either or, on several memorable occasions she had to walk the 2 miles to the nearest town to rectify these lacunae.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 03:28 PM

And not one of you was kind enough to bring her a small supply of both to get her through the festival? Shame on you...that's the last time I let YOU borrow mine.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Micca
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 03:32 PM

I did offer to lend some socks but , for some reason, she refused, I think our tastes in underwear were sufficiently different for that question not to arise at all

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: bfdk
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 03:50 PM

But you share Mary's taste? Hmmmm...

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 03:54 PM

Went right by him, Bente.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: bfdk
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 04:53 PM

Did you get photogenicgraphic evidence?

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: open mike
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 05:34 PM

good day...they must be there by now...
hope all goes well..

perhaps a report about the travels
could gain extra credit for limpit

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Amos
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 06:00 PM

Fly safely and enjoy the wild beauty of NZ, Lizzie!!


A

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Gurney
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 12:48 AM

Ah yes. I used to know her well.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: GUEST,LTS Dahn Anda
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 03:10 AM

Here I am, in New Zealand, after a gruelling 24ish hours in the air courtesy of Emirates Airlines - who are fab! Every seat has a screen in it, where you can watch movies (we saw Bolt, Australia, Twighlight and Madagascar 2 between us), listen to an awful lot of music and watched the 'Pilot view cam' or 'downward cam' - live links that show you what the pilot is seeing or what you're flying over. The food was more than adequate and frequently served!

The first leg was 6.45hrs, to Dubai, which was daylight and warm. Didn't leave the airport, as it was only a short change over. Dubai to Melbourne was the killer at 11.35hrs, but luckily it was vastly underbooked so we were able to stretch out over a couple of seats and get some rest. We landed at Melbourne at 5.35am (their time) on the tail of a northerly wind, which made it feel rather more like we didn't so much land as were shot down! During the hour we were in the airport, the wind changed to westerly, bringing with it the rainstorm on whose wings we flew out.

The final part of the flight was 5.50hrs, landing us at Auckland Int. at 12.40pm, lunchtime. April 14th was 9 hours long and had 3 meals and an Equatorial crossing in it! Limpit and I got our photos taken just about as we were crossing the line, her first time, my second... No major ceremonials like dropping her overboard or dousing her with anything but an event commemorated regardless.

So far I've added a pukeko and myna birds to my list, along with a possible oyster catcher (the NZ one is a bit different to the Eurpean one) and possibly a barwit or three - and that's with just one drive around Manukau!

We went to see my mother later, after a quick change of shirt and an ablute... I think it's a good job we didn't wait to come. However, she was pleased to see us, we'll visit her often whilst we're here.

More later when I've thrown off the vertigo and jet lag, I keep listing to starboard.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: GUEST,LTS
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 03:18 AM

I forgot the black swan... calmly drinking from a trough in a field full of calves!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Little Robyn
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 03:22 AM

Welcome girls.
The weather should stay good for you, at least for a few days.
Gurney is not too far away but it's a 7 hour drive to us in Hastings.
Cheers,
Robyn

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 03:34 AM

Glad you arrived safe and sound Liz and Phoebe and that your mum is pleased to see you.

We look forward to hearing more about your travels,

Love from us lot xxx

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 04:09 AM

I see barwits all the time in London!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 08:20 AM

Wonderful description of flights and arrival. Savor every moment!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Leadfingers
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 09:32 AM

Keep us informed Liz !
And NO Barwits this side of London , but we do seem to have our share of Halfwits !

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Desert Dancer
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 10:45 AM

wow. wouldn't have thought it would be 5.5 hours from Melbourne to Aukland. I guess I don't look at that side of the globe often enough!

Hope to fly that was someday, ourselves, and poke around in the Nankivell family closet. No stops from here, though, I don't think...

Have a good visit (fun and other stuff).

~ Becky in Long Beach, when not in Tucson

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: SINSULL
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 11:06 AM

There used to be a pair of black swans at a convent on LI. The owner had left his estate to the Ursulans. Besutiful place. Beautiful birds.
Rest up and enjoy!
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Little Robyn
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 04:14 PM

Becky, it's only about 3 hours flying from Aus to NZ but then you add the 2 hour time difference.
Cheers,
Robyn

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Little Robyn
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 04:15 PM

And when you go the other way, it looks like it only takes 1 hour.
Robyn

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: GUEST,LTS very excited!!
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 04:31 PM

I saw a tui!! Had a little potter around the property today (South Auckland Caravan Park, Ramarama) and found a big tree making the most amazing noises... turns out there was a tui (known as the Parson bird) sitting in it, serenading a car park!

It's the size of an English blackbird, very similar in appearance but has two white feathers at its throat like an old fashioned parson's collar.

Then, there was the Welcome swallow (no jokes please!) sitting outside our bedroom window... he's another native. I can report that the sparrows are identical but bigger and more numerous.

Next report at the weekend.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: vectis
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 04:41 PM

You should be able to see two types of oystercatcher up there the variegated and the pied.
Hope you get to see as well as hear a bellbird, (etherial) and Kiwi (noisy buggers).
Enjoy what you can while you are down there. Roll on December when I go over again.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: ranger1
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 04:46 PM

I hope you are taking lots of photos! Had I known you were headed down under, I would have pm'd my snail-mail addy and begged for a post card. Sigh.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: GUEST,LTS in NZ
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 05:04 PM

PM me your snail mail and I'll see what I can do, I just haven't bothered to log in here, but it's no trouble to do it...

Planning day trips now, looks like we're off to the Sky Tower, a Haunted house (formerly a mental hospital), the Zoo, Auckland Museum and possibly Rangitoto island whilst we're here... and Kelly Tarleton's Undersea world which I remember from last time and loved!

LTS and Limpit

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Little Robyn
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 02:57 AM

Are you planning to visit Devonport?
The Folk club there meets on a Monday night and I reckon that's NZ's best!
Look for Roger Giles - he lives in Cowper St., Devonport and runs the club (or at least, he did the last time we went there).
Even if you're not going to the club, the Devonport ferry ride and walk up Mount Victoria is worth the effort - the view is lovely.
Cheers,
Robyn

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 04:38 AM

Spent the day at "spookers" a retired mental institution that is now a horror theme attraction>

Then we went to the beach where the sand is black! Limpit was suitably impressed and made a black sandcastle> we had a bit of a drive up the penninsula< to the lighthouse and lookout< for the view across the island to Auckland city> once I find the little HD I brought with me< I"ll download the pictures to flickr and sort a link< but at the moment< it"s in the bottom of a black bag which is full of black clothing> guess what colour it is>>>

right< back to the bird books _ silver eye and the native falcon today< along with the white faced heron and others!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Rapparee
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 08:27 AM

How, exactly, was the former mental asylum different from THIS place?

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: katlaughing
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 12:19 PM

Judging from the sunrise songs of the Tui, that's quite a wake-up call! (Scroll down.)

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: My guru always said
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 12:50 PM

Great to see that you've survived the trip & enjoying yourselves, keep up the good work!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 03:33 PM

It differs not a lot, except I reckon the gift shop is better.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Gurney
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 06:00 PM

We'd be happy to meet you. We live near Howick, phone [phone] in the Auckland area.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: JennieG
Date: 16 Apr 09 - 08:38 PM

NZ is a beautiful place and the people are lovely, they will look after you well! Gurney, my g-g-grandparents were some of the original Fencible settlers in Howick, I have visited the Pioneer Village where their photo is hanging on the wall of the cafe.

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Gurney
Date: 17 Apr 09 - 02:28 AM

Jennie, I have nothing but admiration for the way pioneers coped in every country. I'm not a born Kiwi, I've only been here for the second half of my life. So far!
I was at the village only a couple weekends ago, a 'live' weekend. Interestingly, Howick was built on land that two Maori tribes held in dispute, and positively encouraged the 'Pakehas' to buy as a peacemaking move. Never actually needed the Fencibles.
For the uninitiated, the Fencibles were retired British servicemen who were assisted to settle with their families in the outskirts of towns to provide a soldierly reaction force in the event of Maori attack. Frightening people, some of those old Maoris. Tattoos and testosterone.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 17 Apr 09 - 03:54 PM

That beige bird that's been driving me nuts - it's an Australian spur winged plover and I've just watched a pair of them mob an Austalasian harrier (big bird of prey) which may have been attempting to rob their nest. They can nest as late as March and my sister says it's been a strange hot/cold/hot summer - they have autumn colours for the first time in her memory (she's been here for 24 years), so they may have young in their ground level nest.

Got a barbie later today, any plans for this morning are waiting until the water pump is fixed.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: katlaughing
Date: 17 Apr 09 - 04:17 PM

Until we get to see your pix...were they like This One? (Love your descriptions!)

Here's some good INFO on them.

Couldn't find a harrier by "Australasian" but did find THIS ONE which it says if subject to being harried by plovers quite often.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: katlaughing
Date: 17 Apr 09 - 04:22 PM

There are some really NEAT songs being sung out there. Check out these samples, esp. the Kokako! click here!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 18 Apr 09 - 02:19 AM

Kat - that's the one. I've not managed to get a picture of them yet, but there are a couple of other native birds on my Flickr site here.

A trip up the Coromandel penninsula today added oyster catchers, stilt, black billed gull, black backed gull, little shag, pied shag (karuhiruhi), grey teal (probably) and arctic skua - a first for me on the skua front!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 19 Apr 09 - 05:17 PM

Travelled over to North Shore, Auckland yesterday (Sunday) and had a look around Mt Victoria and North Head, 2 extinct (we hope) volcanoes with amazing views of the city and Rangitoto, the volcanic island in the harbour. Stood on the roof of the folk club but didn't fall in. More birds added to the list, including a red beaked gull that tried to eat the car.

Today it's raining (well, it is Autumn here) and grey, but still warm out - to us anyway!

Mother has improved somewhat since we saw her on Wednesday and Friday... she was sitting up for a while and we had a good chat. She's still frail but is on a high energy drink that will give her strength. I appear to have acquired her larger cross stitch pieces as she's no longer able hold the frame up, but she's still got plenty to do when she feels well enough. Don't tell Manitas - he thinks there's far too much in the house already. Don't let him know either that we're probably going to a shop devoted to quilt making... I could spend a week and a large fortune in one of those places!!

Well, must away and get Limpit into the shower.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Wolfhound person
Date: 20 Apr 09 - 04:42 AM

The boat trips out into the harbour are splendid - take a ferry to an island, or just do the round trip.
Try and get someone to show you a morpork, or at least hear one. We had one under our window when jetlagged. It's an owl, and yes, the word was used to go with Ankh.
Kiwis are fun, too, but you'll probably need a nature park or something for them.Much smaller than I thought.

If you get to drive, try and flatten a possum - the locals will thank you. I have my possum-fur Kiwi on my desk as I write.

And try and meet up with Little Robyn and Mitch - she's a fund of knowledge, folkie, & NZ / Maori-wise.

Flights the other way round(we did Heathrow - LA - Auckland) were one stop, 10 hours airtime the 1st half, 11 hours the second. If I ever did it again, I'd take a day or so in the middle. It was too much in one go.

Paws

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 20 Apr 09 - 06:14 AM

speaking of possums - if you need some lovely knitted stuff (or yarn) look for merino-possum products. Merino is wonderful fine wool, possum is an even more wonderful fibre cos it's hollow fibres insulate & keep folks toasty warm!

My possum waistcoat has replaced my fleece waistcoats in winter.

scarves, gloves, beanies, socks & more! and merino possum is up to 40% warmer than wool

happy shopping

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: gnu
Date: 20 Apr 09 - 03:33 PM

Sounds like youse are having quite an adventure, Liz! Glad to hear you had good chat with your mum.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: katlaughing
Date: 20 Apr 09 - 03:55 PM

Well, if you run into This Fellow I can see Manitas might get very lonely!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 20 Apr 09 - 05:53 PM

Ah, the talking tui... their original song is a lot more diverse and confusing. Didn't know if I was looking for a parakeet, a sparrow or a car alarm!

Apparently there's a myna bird that imitates several telephone ringtones on the site.. not heard him yet though.

Saw the pukeko in the paddock yesterday, they're daft.

More pictures here.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: vectis
Date: 20 Apr 09 - 08:04 PM

I'm back in December and New Year - can't wait. It has started snowing at some of the skiing areas according to my youngest in Tauranga. Hey! You could go snokboarding or something..

Coat firmly in hand.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Gurney
Date: 21 Apr 09 - 01:43 AM

The smaller snapper are moving out of the harbour, but the bigger ones are still here at the moment.

There are a couple of great Genesis Energy ads on YouTube which star Pukekos. I defy anyone not to smile whilst they're watching the 'switch off the standard lamp' one.
They really do behave with that sort of deliberation, and they inhabit any bit of green that has some water to it, quite common throughout the suburbs. They survive because thay taste like and are as tough as a boot.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 22 Apr 09 - 03:07 AM

Auckland museum and the Sky Tower today... fabulous!

Piccies here.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 22 Apr 09 - 03:15 AM

Here's a link to the Pukeko ad... watch those baby feet!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: GUEST,Mr Red
Date: 22 Apr 09 - 10:19 AM

Don't miss the chance to have a Hangi (pronounced hungi).

it is Food cooked in the goround.

and if you want talking birds - there is always the Morepork, so called because it doesn't toowitoowoo, it says "More Pork"!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 22 Apr 09 - 05:11 PM

There's a morepork around here somewhere so I'm told, but haven't heard him yet... woken by the crickets this morning.

I thought I had some sad news to relate... I found Pearl the praying Mantis on the path the day before yesterday, put her onto a plant out of harms way but she had already been injured and doesn't appear to have made it. Looked for Tony yesterday and found the real Pearl (she's got a short antennae on one side) as well. Seems Tony had another lady friend, the one now demised in the lavender bush. Tony and Pearl are today basking in the sun together again.

Off to the zoo today to see a kiwi bird on English time.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Ebbie
Date: 23 Apr 09 - 03:00 PM

Freshen up.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 23 Apr 09 - 07:06 PM

Splendid day at the zoo yesterday, lots of usual zoo stuff like tigers, lions and emu but no wombat. It seems that the one I saw in 1986 did what all animals do eventually and hasn't been replaced yet. The elephants were fun, flamingo did what flamingo do and the alligator just lay there like a dead thing, defying onlookers to see if it was alive or not. The frog house was disappointing - too far away for short sighted viewers to see if there was actually anything in the tanks - you'd think a bright blue or red frog would stick out in a green jungle setting, wouldn't you! The native fauna exhibition was fascinating, close up and personal with a tuatara and a very disgruntled kiwi - they're nocturnal so this one was a bit grumpy at being woken up during the day, even if she was fed corn (the keeper said it was like being woken up at 3.00am and fed chocolate).

Had a walk through the park to get to the zoo,
where we encountered ducks of many varieties, pukeko, geese, gulls, sparrows and chickens. Yes... chickens. NZ seems to have a feral chicken problem. People buy a rooster to promote egg laying, or give it as a present and then they're dumped and left to fend for themselves. Consequently, and with the release of a few hen birds, there is a thriving population of fancy chickens - I spotted at least 5 different breeds from those fluffy white pompom jobs, through the domestic red hen to a splendid fighting cock complete with massive green tail and spurs! Going to the park to feed the chickens, don't think it'll catch on. They're all over NZ though, and oddly enough, they all look pretty healthy - in fact, I've seen free range farm chickens in worse condition than these guys.

The reason we came to NZ wasn't to explore the wildlife though, it was to see my mother. I'm very glad to report that she is much improved and from being a limp rag last week, is now sitting up and out of bed - in fact, when we called in yesterday on the way to the zoo, she was in the lounge playing bingo! Much as I'd like to take credit for the improvement, it has to be down to the care of the staff at the home where she lives, and the hi-energy drink they're feeding her. Hopefully there are a few more years in the old girl yet!

Right, Limpit is jonesing for her Manga hit today, so I'll leave this for now... besides, we're off to the quilting shop later, don't tell Manitas! More at the weekend!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: My guru always said
Date: 24 Apr 09 - 04:10 AM

So glad your Mum is improving Liz, keep up the good vibes!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 24 Apr 09 - 05:30 AM

Just catching up on your travels. Glad you are having a great time and your mum is improving!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 24 Apr 09 - 06:23 AM

You think I don't read these threads? Did Phoebe only take one top?

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Apr 09 - 10:46 AM

What's the matter, Dad? Worried she doesn't have enough clothes? Don't you know that kids this age end up with a favorite shirt that they'll have washed every night for WEEKS so they can wear it every day? :-) We went through a Pokemon and Zelda stage with some shirts when my kids were that age. (Anyway, it looks like she has at least two shirts!)

Keep up the stories and photos, Liz!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 24 Apr 09 - 11:03 AM

Yebbut Phoebe won't have had it washed. Believe me...

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 24 Apr 09 - 04:59 PM

She has so had it washed!! Most of her tops are black so it's hard to tell which one is which from the back - it's down to the front to tell the difference.

There are photos of her in other clothes, but you know how she is about having her photo taken...

It was a bit breezy last night (anyone looking for a sky blue rubbish bin, it's on the other side of the camp) and today is raining, not good weather for ANZAC day. There was a dawn service at the Auckland Museum this morning and there will be things happening around the city. Shops are closed (except dairies and garages) until 1.00pm and the TV is showing a great variety of ANZAC related programmes - including a fascinating documentary earlier about Willie Apiata - the first NZ man to win the VC since WWII, for heroic action in Afghanistan. The interesting thing is, there are no TV commercials until 1.00pm either, just as there are none on any Sunday (a TV station has just been fined NZ$300,000 for showing ads on a Sunday).

We're off to look for hobbits soon. Don't ask.

Oh, and I did pat down Limpit before leaving the zoo... some of those meerkats were pocket sized and I don't trust her entirely around small furry creatures.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: MudGuard
Date: 24 Apr 09 - 05:07 PM

It must be quite boring down there - as you are hanging around the computer almost permanently ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 25 Apr 09 - 03:54 PM

The television here is mostly soaps, variations on human interest ('How to spend less money, see what the police/fire dept/Australian SPCA are doing, decorate your neighbours' wife and never speak again' type programmes), news broadcasts and CSI re-runs that were on in the UK 2-3 weeks ago!

We're not quite in the back of beyond but you can see it from here, so a stroll to the pub is out, and the games room has a pool table but no cues. There is a goat for the really adventurous but her owner (who's a sweetie and took us out for dinner last night) will not be pleased.

The trip to see the hobbits (in a town called Matamata) was a bit of a failure on 2 counts.. Firstly it was peeing down and secondly, it's a vastly overpriced, short bus tour. It is the actual set of Hobbiton; the holes are there and apparently you can wander around them, but the set dressing has been removed so they're all identical white fronted holes in a hill. To my mind, that's not really worth paying nearly NZ$60 (about 25 pounds sterling) per adult to see... Especially when it cost only NZ$80 for 3 adults and a child to spend all day at the Auckland museum and see an exhibition and Maori cultural show!

But, we had a jolly day out, despite the showers, found a large corrugated iron sheep, a giant corrugated iron pukeko and some corrugated iron poppies... don't ask!

Oh, I discovered last night that I like Tui beer as well as tui birds!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Apr 09 - 04:16 PM

Fermented tui? Phooey!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: vectis
Date: 25 Apr 09 - 04:32 PM

While you were discovering Tui (Speights is also drinkable) we were entertained by Martin Curtis, (one of New Zealands finest folk singers) at Seaford last night.

He was wearing the funniest T-shirts I have seen in a long time:

POSSUMS
New Zealand's
little speed bumps

Sadly he wouldn't let me take it home with me...

Anyone who hasn't been to NZ won't get the joke - so don't try to understand why it is funny - just accept that it is.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Apr 09 - 08:23 PM

We have oppossums here in the U.S., where they serve much the same purpose. Along with armadillos in the Southwestern U.S. This one is often seen with the caption of "Not My Job" (to move such things, that is).

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Apr 09 - 12:56 AM

Ah possums, the New Zealander's version of fox hunting... take one road at night and a Ute....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Apr 09 - 04:35 PM

Off to swim with the fishes today - or at least walk underneath them... Kelly Tarleton's Undersea World in Auckland. It has a perspex tunnel out under part of the harbour which has been turned into a shark pool, first one of it's kind I think... I remember seeing it 23 years ago and being blown away.

It's a sunny day here, the cicadas are singing duets with the crickets, the swallows are sweeping the paddock at a height of 8", the pukeko have been grazing in the dew and the fantails are doing their paperbag thing in the trees opposite; a grand day!


LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Micca
Date: 26 Apr 09 - 04:38 PM

Liz, If you come across any of that New Zealand single Malt that they had in The Stag at Hastings once. I will happily exchange, on your return grasping a bottle firmly in your hot hand, pictures of The Queen for it.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 27 Apr 09 - 03:35 AM

Dammit... Liquorland only sold the foreign stuff! I'll see what Duty Free may have.... :D

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 12:43 AM

New York Times article--maybe you should have traveled to a different island in the western Pacific, Liz, to see your Hobbits.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 04:33 AM

She's coming back. Soon to land at Sydney after the first leg.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 08:25 AM

I did warn you about Hobittown!

RtS
(Smug bugger)

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 08:55 AM

Sydney? when??

or is it just to change planes?

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 08:58 AM

Just a touch down. She's now left for the 2nd leg to Dubai.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 08:59 AM

I live close to the airport & might be able to pop over & say hello, or if they're in town for a bit we have 2 singing sessions here this week - shanty session on Thursday night & Australian songs Fri night.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 09:00 AM

bit of cross posting here

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: freda underhill
Date: 28 Apr 09 - 09:29 AM

LTS - if you need a place to stay in Sydney, you and Limpit are welcome to stay with me, just pm me.

freda

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Gurney
Date: 29 Apr 09 - 01:33 AM

Thought we might see them at Tir Na Nog folk club, but no.

By the way, K.T's Underwater World doesn't go under the harbour, it is all in a large sewage tank!

Well, it WAS a sewage holding tank until we stopped dumping the stuff into the sea. Then it was a large concrete-lined hole with the tide washing in and out, and then K.T. bent up the tunnel and invented the genre.
Impressive when stingrays swim over the tunnel and block out the light!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: manitas_at_work
Date: 29 Apr 09 - 09:07 AM

They're baaack!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: SINSULL
Date: 29 Apr 09 - 09:17 AM

Welcome back, guys. Rest up. Wash your hands - no telling what you picked up on those planes.
Auntie SINS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: maeve
Date: 29 Apr 09 - 11:50 AM

Home safely? Wonderful. Thanks for letting us know.


maeve

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 29 Apr 09 - 01:13 PM

Welcome back! Glad you're back safe and sound

Love
Khatt and the clan! xxx

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 29 Apr 09 - 02:58 PM

Yes, we're back, we don't have swine flu although I do appear to have had three breakfasts in 15 hours...

By far the most uncomfortable part of the journey was the penultimate leg, by Underground train from Heathrow to Stratford.

Will post more when I get my head sorted. Manitas likes the shirt we bought him... all I can say it, it was not the loudest, nor the leeriest one available!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Apr 09 - 04:24 PM

Get your brains re-set on your local time zone then tell us more about your trip!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Micca
Date: 30 Apr 09 - 04:35 AM

Welcome home Squeaky and Fibi, see you when you've recovered!!

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 30 Apr 09 - 06:17 AM

Sorry I didn't get to see anyone whilst I was dahn andah, family, time and travel constraints meant we couldn't make any side trips longer than 8 hours.

However, we did get to see some of the environs of Auckland - including the city, SkyTower, zoo, undersea world (where if it isn't under the harbour it's pretty close - the tide comes in right up to the cafe windows, judging by their thickness and the seaweed on the windowsill); the peninsulars either side of the South Auckland area, black sandy beach, white sandy beach, shelly beach and all manner of green fields, glacial plains and tectonicly enhanced mountain ranges in between. In fact, I saw more of the country in this 2 weeks than I did in the previous 2 months I spent there. We didn't exactly get a tan each but Limpit has a couple of freckles that weren't there before and I'm noticing that today is a bit chilly!

Plus I got my wish of seeing lots more native wildlife and acquiring my own Maori carvings (a lovely bone hair pin which survived Customs and the journey intact and a pendant with paua shell inset amongst others. The bone is certified beef bone). Limpit bought me a little wooden Maori Guardian who is presently on the fridge but will soon be moved into the dining room where I hope he'll be at home with the green men.

Thanks to everyone for the support, goodwill messages and help with everything, without which I would have probably gone possum (sat in the middle of the road and looked blank.. or dead.. which is the only way we saw possum there... squished and sort of startled looking).

Mother continues to improve, but is still weak. She's starting to put weight on again, and looks a lot less fragile than when we saw her on the 15th. Should the worst happen, we have had our visit and have our memories. She has a couple of more 'up to date' pictures of us and has met the teenage Limpit. She remembers her as a bouncy toddler who would not keep still... ah, how they change! I'm happy with her care, with the arrangements she has and her quality of life, which, although altered, is still fairly good. Thank you.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Micca
Date: 30 Apr 09 - 06:35 AM

Thanks for the update Liz, I am glad your Mum is on the mend, I expect the complete travelogue with slides and pix when I next see you, Sorry about the loss of dear Old Shadow while you were away, you know how fond of the auld bugger I was, and we will all miss her.

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 01 May 09 - 11:53 AM

Well, here are the last of the photos for this trip, leastways, the ones that will see the light of day! Rumours of the existance of a picture of me with short hair are grossly unfounded and an absolute fabrication!

Thanks again, everyone. Hope you've enjoyed the photos as much as I enjoyed taking most of them.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 01 May 09 - 03:54 PM

Great photos Liz! We've enjoyed looking at them here although Harry thinks there are giraffes in every picture...it's his new word bless him!

Look forward to seeing you when you have got settled back into life back home.

Khatt x

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 03 May 09 - 03:22 AM

Wot, no bungee jumping?

RtS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 04 May 09 - 06:04 PM

We did take some pictures of some other idiots bungee jumping off the Sky Tower - they stop you after about 20' so that you're suspended in front of the viewing platform - then they drop you the other 200'...

I ain't that stupid.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: bfdk
Date: 04 May 09 - 06:34 PM

The postcard arrived in the mail today, thanks Liz for a pair of likely looking laddies :-)

Best wishes,

Bente

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 May 09 - 07:04 AM

They were rather sweet weren't they! Glad you got the card.. that means my parcels should be here soon! They were posted on the same day and postcards are notorious for arriving long after the sender has returned home!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: LTS and Limpit off on an adventure!
From: ranger1
Date: 05 May 09 - 12:42 PM

Thanks for my post card, too, Liz. It came on Friday and I have it on the dash of the car (don't ask!).