"35.26.228S 174.21.801"

We spent Christmas with my cousin at their Bach. Truly wonderful. A fantastic venue and perfect hospitality. 

Christmas Eve saw Hamish out surfing in front of the house. How amazing to be able to walk out of the house down onto the beach and out into the surf!  Alison and Bruce arrived about midnight so I stayed up to join Bruce in a wee dram....

Christmas Day we were joined by Bruce's brother and partner. I swam in the sea three times, Gill managed once. 

Boxing Day we went for a drive, including along a beach and up to the magnificent Gallery Cafe. 

The following day we walked up though the most amazing forest of native trees. So diverse and beautiful. I don't think I have ever seen so many greens in one forest, such a change from the managed forests of Scotland! It was also excellent exercise! Followed thankfully by a beer and lunch at the Gallery Cafe....

Then on the 28th we went for a gentle, but equally charming walk along a local beach.

What a truly fantastic way to spend Christmas. 

I think I last spent any part of Christmas with Alison was 1975! But they could not have been more charming and hospitable. We were made to feel at home. 

Now we are planning to head south for New a Year!

What ever you are doing I hope it is fun and you are surrounded by love!

At this time of year we miss friends and family at home, and in other parts of the world....but we know they love us, as we love them....

Here's to memories and a great 2017

Love Alasdair