I just had to get out. Get away from the flu. Or rather get away from the impact of the flu. It’s been one of those days where my otherwise tidily organised week has turned to custard. People ringing up sick and can’t make their appointments. Or... I’ve always struggled to remember the names of plants. Sometimes I can remember their popular name but to remember the latin names is a rareity. It’s a source of great frustration if you’re trying to explain to other people what’s going on... One thing that worries me about living where we do is the prospect of forest fires. My first experience of this was soon after we moved in. I looked out the kitchen window today and saw this down the valley. My heart suddenly jumped into my mouth as I tried to... Today was hooky Friday. After a mad cleaning frenzy this morning I headed off to the coast to meet up with some friends. We met in Mana which is just up the road from Pauatahanui (pronounced power-tan-oo-ee). This is a charming spot close to Wellington and over... I swear Spring arrived today. It was warmer and there were snatches of blue sky to be seen. As soon as I was released from my coaching calls the bassets and I were out for a brisk walk across in the Kaitoke forest. There is nothing better for clearing the head.... 