Melbourne weekend

The Off to Melbourne on Thursday 26th November for a long week and Bar Mitzvah, so the Saturday before I had a pedicure. But on the Friday 20th November we went to see Cats the musical as always wanted to see it, but never managed. So went into the city early to get food but didn't have too much time so just went to Harry's wheels then Starbucks for coffee. Delta Goodrem plays Grizabella and I expected her part to be bigger but she nailed the climax of the iconic song "Memory". I enjoyed it but still think my favourite is Wicked as didn't appear to have as much a storyline as some of the other shows. But there was some quite entertaining cats especially the tomcat who is a street wise urban cats who raps. Then luckily on the Thursday before we were going to Melbourne for the weekend, I had a study day which finished early. Which gave me time to decide what to pack as no idea what weather would be like, so unsure what to take. Diego kindly dropped us off at the airport, so got there 8.45pm and Tiago got something to eat which wasn't the best but I didn't bother then we wandered to the gate. Was a flight to Darwin in front of ours which didn't end up leaving til about 9.50 which meant our flight was late leaving as supposed to leave at 9.45pm. Didn't end up up getting to Melbourne til about 12.30 which was over an hour later than expected. Get luggage looked at taxi line very long, so got skybus into city was abit of a queue but didn't end up waiting too long. Once in city got taxi from train station to Amy and Ryan's place which was only a 5-10 minute journey and got to there's just before 2am. Felt abit bad as Amy and Ryan waited up for us but nothing we could of done, so everyone was very tired so straight to bed. On the Friday Tiago got up 7am, as working in the Melbourne office today, I was going to go for breakfast for him but too tired and got up 8.45am. Left 10am first stop breakfast and far too much choice was not really sure what I fancied ended up just having coffee and fruit. It was then time to look round the shops and so much choice found a lovely shop 'Storm' which we don't have in Sydney. Bought a few things from there and was reasonably priced got jeans since never bought any with me and might need later, also a top and cardigan. Looked round quite a few shops and was some shoes I liked at Nine West but was good and didn't buy as would too much luggage. Got to Amy and Ryan's place at 3pm as there had kindly left me the key in case I wanted to go back during the day. Had bought coffee, yoghurt and banana as not had any lunch and not eating til 8pm tonight so thought best have something obviously got too distracted with shops. My aim was to only stay a while then go back out but ended up staying til 6ish when Tiago got back to drop off backpack. I ended up wearing my new white jeans and blue cardigan as the weather had turned and was now abit chilly so was a good job that I bought the jeans. We then made our way to the city, the train station was only a 5 minute walk away and train took us straight to flinders station. It was then to make our way to the restaurant to meet Amy and Ryan for dinner which was a 15-20 minute along south bank. Eating at Munich Brauhaus a traditional German restaurant with Bavarian beers, German bands and hearty meals in a vast lively space with timber decor. We got there first and the person on door didn't understand Tiago at first just don't think she was listening probably. Since was a German restaurant thought best have a German beer but was very hard to drink then we shared pretzel and garlic bread to start. I then wanted the duck but unfortuantely none left so had the salmon, Tiago had the pork belly which was very big. After we finished eating had a competition to hold the beer glass which Amy did she did well but didn't win came 2nd. After this we went to the Crown casino for a drink and have a go on the tables me and Tiago both got a free $10 which I used on the slot machine. But I didn't win anything and Tiago tried roulette he wanted to do black jack but couldn't find a table he wanted all of them was nearly $20. Ryan played roulette and did quite well won in the end but at first lost then went in again after a dance and managed to win his bids plus extra. Not sure what time we ended up leaving but got taxi back then straight to bed when home. On Saturday morning Ryan got up early to go to Ikea with his friends whilst we all slept and when we got up went for brunch. As Melbourne is known for having excellent brunches, it didn't disappoint we went to Lucky Penny on chapel street. I had eggs with crumpet, was great coffee, great food, lovely decor and friendly helpful staff which was a bonus. Afterwards go to the shops as Amy and Tiago had to buy present for Harriet son's bar mitzvah tomorrow just got a sports gift voucher. Me and Tiago then did abit more shopping whilst Amy headed back to meet Ryan as now back from Ikea. We just ended up buying a bottle of wine for Amy and Ryan a bottle of wine to say thank you for having us stay. By the time we got back the stuff Ryan had bought from Ikea was already in the flat had got clothes rails, small table and chairs for outside and bedside table. We helped him to put the table and chairs together as we decided we would have a BBQ later and be nice to sit outside on the balcony. We then all went to Melbourne market to buy food for the BBQ we got steak for me, Tiago and Amy, but Ryan is vegetarian so got tuna steak. The Melbourne was nice lots of food to try, so much choice so took us abit to choose what we wanted also got some cheese and dips to have later. Once back we got back me, Tiago and Amy say on the balcony to have cheese, dips, crackers and sparkling wine very nice whilst Ryan had a rest. We were going to go the zumbo cafe which wasn't far from their aparment to try some of the desserts but ended up just staying in. So we didn't end up doing much the rest of the day had BBQ later with some roster vegetables was very nice. Then we just watched TV and helped Ryan with his ikea purchases, we didn't have a late night as think all tried from last night. The next morning woke up late then was breakfast just under earth were there lived just had breakfast durkan with halloumi cheese. Me, Tiago and Amy then all went to Harriet's son Ben's Bar Mitzvah, Amy invited Ryan but he declined to come. It was a lovely celebration but was very strange the ladies and men have to be separated by plant pots which got moved for whilst we were dancing and eating. But at least we still got to have some nice cocktails to drink and wasn't that hungry since we had only just had breakfast. I was so glad that Amy came as otherwise I wouldn't of known anyone since wasn't allowed to socialise with Tiago and was his boss. We stayed for a while then lucky one Tiago's other work colleagues kindly gave us a lift back to Amy's apartment even though was abit out of her way. When we got back quickly got changed the we went to their local pub to have a drink and something to eat just shared a pizza each couple. It was then time for us to go to to the airport and lucky flight was on time and Diego and Gabi picked us up from airport. 

Diegos birthday weekend in Bendalong

Left just after 8 while Diego and Tiago packed,me and Gabi went to Coles to get a few things and  ended up getting to Bendalong about 11. Staying at Bendalong Point Holiday Haven which is we're you go out to the escape the busyness of life and rejuvenate. Nestled amongst the tall eucalypts of the Red Point Headland, the park is the ideally location and renowed for its surf breaks. But unfortuantely when we got to our cabin 4 people were already in and were very rude called us immigrants so Diego called them bogans. Their wouldn't move out told and told us we could have the empty cabin next door and pushed us out the door as there were eating. So we called the police and the resort manager, the manager came first and found us a new accommodation to go. First was one at the top of the road which he then decided it might be abit to close to other people. But then luckily he remembered he had the cottage vacant which sleeps 10 people with 4 bedrooms and is right on the beach. It was very nice very spacious it even had its own BBQ and we each got our own double room only thing is wasn't really that tired as still worked up from what happened so bed 2ish. Then unfortunately in the morning got woken up by the builders as our doing some work to the place making a spa room. So since up early we had breakfast th n went to the beach so the boys could go surfing and then me and Gabi relax in The sun. Unfortuantely the sun kept going behind the clouds so couldn't work on my tan too much only ended up been there about 2 hours. When we got back played monopoly which seemed to take a while it was then lunch BBQ dinner steak and salad. Afterwards we had a rest and ended up falling asleep for abit, when we got up Diego and Gabi not there. But when there got back we went for a walk to the 2nd beach with them and saw string rays which came close to the shore so could actually touch them. When we got back had dinner with wine then played poker but seemed to take longer than expected. On the Sunday not up as early but had my scones for breakfast today and it was then to the beach again but was more cloudy today. Also the waves weren't as good for the boys so didn't last long in the sea today and could hardly catch a wave to do any surfing. Luckily we had late check out so when got back had time to have shower, lunch then tidy up before making our way back to Sydney. We really liked the place and asked if any availability for New Year as thought be nice to all go away together as a family but unfortuantely was full. Also the place is peaceful, beautiful surroundings and hearing the waves in the morning was just unforgettable. Was just wonderful to see all the wildlife as saw Stringrays, pelicans, lots of kangaroos and even a whale on the last day.

Randwick races

Woke up about 8.30 am and Tiago speak to his family at 9am first on Skype then go for breakfast. Pick parcels up on route  from Post offices then breakfast at Maisy's had hotcakes for a change was good. By the time had done all this got home 10.30 then time to decide what to wear as had a choice of 3 outfits. In the end choose my manning cartell skirt and top as Tiago when else old I wear it and the other 2 dresses could wear on a night out. Also Elli my Clinical Support Officer (CSO) had lent me her black fascinator to wear and went better with this outfit. Luckily I had already had shower this morning so all I had to do was my make up and hair, first started with my make up. As still wasn't sure what to do with my hair, fancied having it curly but normally it takes a while with the GHD's. I tried to curl my hair with my GHD's but seemed to be taking a while so ended up putting it up in a bun. Tiago was just going to wear trousers and shirt but his brother had text him to say was wearing a suit so Tiago had to change. Decided to wear his new blue striped suit but the to decide what shirt which took a while eventually choose a pale blue one. Aim to leave 12ish but ended up leaving abit after got to the bus to Wynyard and then got a taxi from there straight to a Randwick Races. So by the time got to the races was nearly 2 and the second race was just happening. Had a few pictures taken with the races signs and then time to get our free glass of wine unfortuantely was a long queue. But we all bet on the third race and my horse 'Dream Choice' won and Tiago's horse 'Last Try Wins' came 6th. Whilst collecting the winning someone in the queue commented on how lovely my top was and only collected $11.50 but better than nothing. It was the then to go for a wander to find seats and met Gabi's friend who was there with for her friends birthday. Only thing is we couldn't find seating at first so just stood at the edge of the race track so at least got a good view of the race. Eventually Diego found a chair for Gabi, so Tiago went to find one for me and still sat next to the track. The fourth race we didn't do well mine was 'Countryman' came 6th and Tiago's was 'Destiny's Kiss' which came 9th. Then the 5th race we both decided on the same horse 'Dance of Heroes' but it didn't do well ended up coming 7th. It was then time to put on our next bet for the 6th race and this time I had 'Devil Hawk' and Tiago 'Gold Ambition' both horses came no way. Only 2 more races left so the 7th race Tiago's horse came 2nd 'Wine Tales' which was very appropriate since we like wine. But think since it was good odds we only got $10.50 as winning and my horse 'Joyful journey' came 9th. Unfortuantely for the last race both off our horses came no way but I had thought of putting on 'Good Project' which came 3rd. It was then time to collect all our winning as had done on the TAB machine but wasn't much. It was also Diego's and Gabi's first time at the races which there seemed to enjoy but only bet on one race. Was quite funny we only drunk 2 bottles and the free glass between us, both Gabi and Diego were abit tipsy. We then made our way to the free bus and was giving away free bottles of water when leaving which was good. Luckily didn't have to wait long for the free bus and got a seat to Central station, then go to Harry's Wheels for dinner as we were all starving as not had lunch, so just had a hot dog. We then made our way to the bus stop near the the uni and had to wait abit for the bus but first Diego and Tiago had to get bus ticket for Gabi.

Long weekend

Can't believe I have now been Acting NUM for 5 weeks how the time has flown by and still no news how long for. But there are hoping to advertise the post before the end of the year and I think I may apply but no guarantees that I would get it. Luckily everyone seems happy with how am doing at the moment and even the staff were pleased with the roster I did. I also managed to get a new member of staff to start who will start with us on the 19th October, as were supposedly 5 staff short. So was looking forward to the long weekend as public holiday on the Monday 5th October which meant 3 days off. As at the moment I can't remember the last time had an RDO (recurred extra day off) which supposed to get every month. On the Friday night had my laser treatment and the Saturday arranged to have my pedicure and eyebrows done. As thought best have it all done in preparation for my night away and for the horse races next weekend. So on the Saturday up early for my pedicure and eyebrows at 9am, which didn't seem to take as long as normal. As sometimes when I go it can take nearly 2hours but was only an hour and this time decided to go for grey colour as not sure what am wearing next weekend for races. On way back home got coffee for us both then chill on the balcony reading my book and updating my blog. Go to Diego and Gabi's just after 1pm for BBQ to celebrate Diego getting the job he wanted after been out of work for a few months. But unfortunately we didn't really start eating til 3pm so was quite hungry by then and was nice to see all off their family. We ended up leaving about 4ish as Tiago had to come home to do his assignment so I just chilled watching TV. On Sunday up about 8ish made breakfast and then Tiago went for coffee whilst I sorted my packing for our night away. It was then to go to church at 9.30 which was about believing in yourself. Straight after church head to The Entrance for our night away I decided to drive as Tiago feeling tired. The Entrance is a district centre and town of the Central Coast region of  New South Wales. On the way the  roads were abit busy near Hornsby but once we were on the motorway was fine with lovely views. Once we came off the exit for The Entrance there was lots of roundabouts til we arrived at our hotel the ibis styles. Got to our hotel before 2 and was plenty of car parking, luckily our room was ready, which we got upgraded to a queen room. Quickly drop stuff off in the room which was nice and big then time for food, looked in their restaurant but decided against it since probably be eating there tonight. So decided to walk into the town centre which took us about 30 minutes, was nice and warm. There was a few Thai places but didn't want to eat that, saw a fish n chip shop but was very busy. So ended up going to a Mexican place where we shared nachos but not the best as the Doritos and mince came separately. We then walked to the waterfront to watch the pelican feeding at 3.30 where you get an entertaining and educated commentary about the pelicans. The pelican feeding is the Central Coast's most popular tourist attraction attracting tens of thousands of families. Even though the pelicans are massive, they are beautiful in ther own style which are calm and good natured definitely not to be missed. We then walked along the waterfront to have a paddle in the water near the bridge and the water was only shallow. It was then to walk back to the hotel but this time decided to walk back along the waterfront what ch ended up taking abit longer than expected. Got back to the hotel before 5 then time to drink some wine and play cards where I lost. We then ended up falling asleep for abit and go for dinner after 8.30 unfortunately thevrestaurant was closed. But luckily the buffet open til 9pm so ended up having that which wasn't too bad but was alot of fried food. Even got to have dessert aswell but no nice pudding so just had whippy ice-cream with sprinkles which made me feel like a big kid. Back to the room 9.30 play cards again but this time played 21 and I won this time, watched TV for abit then bed. On the public holiday Monday got up 8ish and go for breakfast before 9 as we had it included. But unfortunately was only continental which was a shame and the coffee not good but was machine, so had nice green and jasmine tea. Ended up checking out 10am and Tiago drove back this time luckily traffic not as bad as coming. Got home 11.30 unpack then Tiago have to work on his assignment so I went for coffee then sat on balcony.

NUM and bridge run

Since no one got appointed our new nursing unit manager (NUM) I was asked if I would do acting again. So I got asked on Tuesday 25th August by Carmen the operational manager if I would do it again and to start on the Monday 31st August. I told her I had to discuss with my partner first and Tiago agreed that I should do it so I accepted, then had 2 days off handover from Amie. It felt strange been the manager again at first as so many things to sort out like annual leave for Xmas, January and appraisals. But I even managed to do my first ever appraisal on my first Monday as acting NUM, but at least it was a nice easy staff no issues. Also last time when I was NUM I didn't have to attend any meetings but this time I had to do them all. First bed meeting every morning at 8.30 but was only 15 minutes to say how many discharges and admissions we were expecting that day. I met with the director of nursing my first week and she was actually nicer than I expected but said if want to be permanent NUM need a degree in management. So will see how it goes, but it is nice having weekends off again and been able to plan to do thing. Still unsure how long I will be acting NUM off but think will at least be til end of this year as still not advertised yet. On Friday 18th September had Ryan and Amy coming to stay with us as there we w here for the weekend as Amy bridesmaid. So we organised for them to stay with us on the Friday then we could go to the Oaks for a catch up as been a while since seen them. Unfortunately there didn't end up arriving til before 10 pm and was already feeling tired but once at Oaks was fine. Was nice to catch up but wasn't a late night as for some reason the pub closed at 11.30 which seemed early for a Friday night. Then on Saturday up about 9am as off for breakfast with Ryan as Amy already left at 7am to go prepare for the the wedding. I wanted to try the new place at Mosman Wharf as had good reviews but thought easier to go to the city as Ryan meeting friend at woolloomooloo at 1. So ended up going to Portobello cafe at Circular Quay which is on the promenade on the way to Sydney Opera House. Lucky arrived at the perfect time as was just staring to rain when we got there and got seated undercover. Also is the perfect place for breakfast with a stunning view of the Sydney harbour and all the water traffic passing by. Afterwards Ryan made his way through botanical gardens to go meet his friend and we made our way back home. As soon as back in Neutral Bay I collected my running bib from vision personal training, as luckily there had collected it for me. We then met up with Diego and Gabi just to Balmoral for coffee and a walk along the beach front. Once back we played monopoly at there's and the game seemed to go for a while, Diego ended up winning. So Sunday 20th September day of the blackmores bridge run 9km was abit nervous as not sure if I had done another training. Tiago dropped me at Bradfield Park in  Milson's point at 8ish and was already lots of people there. Thought I best go to the toilet before start and luckily went early as had to queue for a while and then I did some stretches before start off race at 9am. The weather held out for us and running across the Sydney bridge was pretty awesome. It was definitely the highlight for me as it was really nice seeing the bridge on foot instead of in the car for a change. When running the race I did get a stitch about 2kms but managed run through it and then at about 7kms my right thigh ached for about 1km. But I was determined to run it all and not walk  once and luckily the run was fairly flat not like the city 2 surf run with the heartbreak hill for 2kms. Also when running over the bridge to circular quay I saw my personal trainer Georgia so that was nice Also so happy to finish race in 50.20 even though my aim was too do it under 50 mins but at least I managed to run it all. Once finished race trust it to start raining but was only lightly and was quite refreshing as was abit hot from the run. When finished got a bottle of water, a medal and then went to do more stretches whilst having my protein bar.  Was going to try and meet one the girls who I used to work with but never ended up seeing her as think she started in a different group.At least I finished before 10am and then I looked round the recover tents but not much there could do yoga if fancied but decided against it. I then wandered through botanical gardens to watch some of the marathon runners finish not sure I could ever do 42km marathon. But I wouldn't mind maybe doing a half marathon one day as only 21kms an supposedly Canberra is quite flat. Got train after 10.30 and for some reason at first thought could get straight to Milson Point from Circular Quay. But then remembered had to change at Wynyard first and first train very busy, but at least was only a short journey. Once back at Milson Point just walked back home since Tiago at church and only took about 30 minutes so not too bad and only raining lightly. Once home I looked on online and found out I had actually doing it faster than thought but still not under 50mins was 50.11. But since I ran as part of the Vision team I was 8th out of 53 which I didn't think was too bad, so overall was happy and surprised how well I did.

Queenstown and more boarding

Fourth day Wednesday 12th August and day off today from snowboarding and off into Queenstown instead. So got to have a lie in today alarm went off 7.30 but didn't end up getting moving til nearly 8. I had first shower then made breakfast decided to have poached eggs instead of a scrambled for a change and more time to do them. Didn't end up leaving til about 9.30 and got to Queenstown just before 11ish and expected Queenstown to be bigger than it was. Straight to the A J Hackett shop at the station to enquire about doing the Nevis swing today together. Luckily could do today and once booked in only had to wait a few minutes then on the minibus to the place was only 7 of us on minibus. Not all of us doing the swing, was 5 of us doing the Nevis swing and 2 doing the bungy jump but no way I could do a bungy just don't like the idea going upside down. Bus took about 40mins to get to the base where doing the Nevis swing and gave us chance to take picture on way. When pulling in it looked high up and was time for final toilet stop then check in before walking across the 70metre suspension bridge to the launch pad. The Nevis swing is the worlds biggest swing off 70 metre free fall drop with 120 metre swing and only 40 metres above the river bed. It was then to choose our swing style decided to go forwards and side by side, as wanted to see where I was going. We were the third people to go up and the two girls before us one was really nervous but then loved it was also a nurse from Manchester. Just before our turn to go the camera stopped working so had to wait a few minutes for them to get it sorted Luckily we had asked another couple their to take a few pictures for us to remember the experience. Before doing it could feel my legs shaking but when been attached felt a lot better and harness is really comfy. It did feel pretty daunting stepping off the side but the staff were really great and made you feel really safe. Before been released the crew asked if we wanted a count down said no and then was just released, so no going back, You are released high above the valley floor, experiencing a massive rush of adrenaline swinging out across the valley. As you swing at mind blowing speeds down the valley and the drop was so much quicker than I expected, which was good. Was nice just swinging above the mountain top and the view was amazing, but by the end our hands were getting cold. Afterwards time to watch the video and view the pictures decided to only get video as had a few good pictures. Luckily once done that the minibus was ready to take us back to Queenstown at 1.05. Once back time for lunch walked round town couldn't find anything so ended back at Fergburger and hardly any queue which was very lucky. Fergburger is a gourmet hamburger restaurant in Queenstown which is quite well known internationally despite not being a chain. I choose the cockadoodle oink which is chicken, bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato and onion plus sauce. Considering am not a big fan of burgers I really enjoyed this one and was very filling can see why people queue for them. It was then back to the car before making our way to the skyline gondola which expected it to be further way but only 5 mins by car. Decided to only do the gondola ride not the luge ride aswell as seemed to cold for that as outside is like go karts. Going up in the gondola gives you stunning views of the scenery and is the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere. The gondola carries you 450 metres above Queentown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob's Peak, once at top you get even better views from the viewing platform. It was then for our first coffee of the day and sat at a window seat to admire the spectacular view below usand watch the luge riders. Afterwards time to find the jelly bean man to have a picture taken with him, as would be rude not to since he was there. Got to bottom of gondola about 4.30ish then time to make our way back to Wanaka and got back just before 6. Tiago worked on his application letter again whilst I watch TV and finished my book. Went out after 7.30 and went to Amigo's the Mexican which was very busy so had to wait abit for food. Was good just shared nachos and wings, was even better as got $10 off with voucher from our motel. Then straight to supermarket literally had 5 mins then was shutting so had to be quick but got most things what we wanted. Get petrol on way back and home just after 9 where watched TV and drank whiskey bed just before 11. Our 5th day in New Zealand and another early start so can get to the mountain bright and early again. So got up 6.15am have showers, made breakfast the usual scrambled egg, spinach and chicken ham. Ended up leaving at 7.50 and luckily hardly any traffic and no snow chains but got behind a slow juicy van going up the mountain. Got to top of mountain 8.30ish but lifts not open yet so just went to sit inside for abit, whilst we waited. When chair lift opened at 9am was ready to go and luckily no queue and did the Main Street run first but for some reason didn't feel good. So then snowboarded over too saddle back which was fine going over even if there was a few flat bits. But unfortunately when got to top fell off as 2 kids fell in front of me and twisted my right groin, also was cold and visibility not the best so took it slow going back. Was straight back to Main Street run which still didn't feel the best and my right calf was hurting. So when back only 10.30 so had coffee took boots off then Tiago went off again came back at 12 but then went off again til 2ish. I then went up and did the Easy Rider x3 which felt a lot better than this morning and hardly fell this time and practised my turns. But unfortunately on the 2nd run was on with two other 2 snowboarders and 3 of us ended up in a heap on the floor, me on the top. After last run was only 3.55 so Tiago went up one more time whilst I waited glad I did as Tiago said was very misty and had to see. Got home just before 5 have something to eat and chill for abit then walk for dinner at Spiegel Ale House. Had to wait for table for about 30 minutes so whilst waiting we had a mulled wine which was better than the Water bar one. I decided to have the seafood chowder as can't remember when I last had one was one and Tiago had the lamb also got 10% with voucher from motel. Got home just before 9.30 and was just starting to rain lightly so played cards for abit with whiskey. Last full day in Wanaka woke up early again 6.20 had breakfast then looked at ski report saying on hold at minute. So just rested and watched TV for abit then left about 9ish even though ski forecast still saying on hold. But thought would try so got to the entrance to go up the Treble Cone mountain and saying had to put snow chains on. So time to put the snow chains on which took abit of time and when going up the mountain the right chain wasn't on right and making a lot of noise. When we eventually stopped the last time to look at the snow chain to take it off, one of the chain connections had broken so at least we know what the noise was. Also at this point a few cars coming down the mountain and told us the slopes were now closed but still saying on hold on the website. But it did say the saddle back was closed and that there were still hoping to open the other slope before lunch. So decided at this point to go back aswell but first to take off the other snow chain and find somewhere safe to turn around. Once back in Wanaka straight to the treble cone office to see if could get refund on our lift passes. Unfortunately couldn't get refund for weather conditions and also because Cardona ski range also open, but we didn't enjoy it as much as treble cone resort. Which was a shame and then went to take snowboard gear but decided against it since still not saying mountain closed yet. So went for coffee as only 11ish which had free wifi so could check emails yeh, but only sweet things to eat so didn't have any food just coffee. When left it officially said the mountain was closed due to high winds and poor visibility but only raining lightly now. So then took snowboard gear back and there kindly gave us a refund since only used 4 days and paid for 6. We then went back to get sorted and clean our ski gear before putting to dry in the laundry room. It was then to walk into town to go for lunch fancied pizza but the place we wanted to go not open yet and couldn't find anywhere at first as didn't want sandwiches. Ended up going to the Lake bar where we shared a tasting plate (see picture) which had a mixture of meat, fish, bread etc very nice. On way back walked along the lake and was lots of ducks around then time to have pictures taken with the hand statue. Once got home time to chill played cards and had some wine for a few hours then time to do abit of packing not before having a little nap. After a little nap, Tiago worked on his job application again so I finished doing the packing whilst watching TV. Had takeaway pizza for dinner just in case we needed longer to sort our packing out, but already done apart from our ski stuff still drying then bed 10ish. I really enjoyed our holiday to New Zealand and will definitely come back is very picturesque but thought Queenstown would of been bigger. Also when I go on a snowboarding holiday again will need lessons next time as unfortunately still not getting my turns right. It was time to go home on Saturday 15th August and up at 7.30 just to finish the packing and make sure we had everything with us. Left just after 8.30 and hosts said if we ever want to come back best to phone them and get better deal, which was nice. Breakfast at Kai Whaka Pai as when ever been to Wanaka always looks busy so thought best try it out whilst here. Very happy that we tired as food very nice I just had breakfast pot and Tiago a full hot breakfast and coffee nice. It was then time to head to the airport not before stopping to get Gabrielle birthday present a neck scarf like mine but pink and fill car up. On way to airport stop at lookout point on way down the mountain to get a picture as very pretty. Got to airport just before 11 drop car off which was fine but check in desk not open yet, so had to wait about 30 mins. Luckily luggage fine this time didn't have to take anything out of suitcase but put on edge of scales. Too early to go through gate yet so went and got coffee at same place we had yesterday, ate banana and played cards. Go through gate just before 1.30 and didn't start boarding til 2 sat 19A this time and flight left about 15 mins late due to having to alter route. On flight just read book, played games as no entertainment but flight seemed to take ages probably as left late. But we still managed to land on time picked up our alcohol and Tiago bought himself some Bose headphones in duty free. At least once through security our bags were waiting for us apart from Tiago's board which had to wait a few minutes for. Decided might be a hassle to get train and bus back due to all our luggage, so got taxi which was quite expensive and got home 5ish. Quickly made something eat not that we had much too choose so just had beans and sardines mixed together with poached eggs and actually tasted ok then sort suitcases. We then watched film interstellar was good even if abit slow to start with and after film Tiago went for food whilst I spoke to mum and dad on Skype. Then spoke to Sharon, Ellie and met Lucie for the first time who just mainly slept but very cute and is only 6 days old then bed 11.30ish.