The Hole

Just so as this job would not be easy I have found the new pool is about 150mm deeper than the old one so now to dig. The big problem being that nothing mechanical can get to the back of our place so this required the use of a shovel and barrow. I had to remove about 2.5 cubic metres of dirt not to mention about a further 1.5 cubic metres of sand now nicely heaped on the deck. The excess dirt had to be taken out through the back of the deck and barrowed over the bank at the back of the section. It's now all done so the next stage is the installation of the new pool, watch this space. Whew!!

The Pool

Now that I am back in N.Z. the whip has been cracked and the project list rolled out. First up is the pool, the old one removed finally well and truely past it's use by date. Now you would think this would be easy, the shell came out without any real problems but the structure along with all the concrete was another issue. A lot of hard work and the much valued assistance of Mo saw the last remanants removed to Pete's bin at the front of the house. I am sure somebody owes me.

the Nephews

Sam and David spent some time down at the creek near the bach and came back with this eel, not sure what they intended to do with it, but they were certainly proud of their efforts, it appears this is a regular evening sport for them, I pity the eels with these guys on the job.

Saturday Night Whitianga

What else do you do on Saturday night at the beach after having tucked into a nice BBQ feed of fresh fish, steak and snarlers but relax with bro's and inlaws over a few bevvies, very cool.

Coastal Views

Just north of Whitianga and we are at Kuaotunu where we are able to launch the boat and head out for fishing, Snapper, diving for Scallop's and of course cray fish.

Whitianga

Bit of R & R at the beach rather a pleasant weekend with family at Whitianga with family, bit of fishing and golf, great view from our bach another pricelsss effort beyond the reach of Mastercard.

Home Again

Here we are home again our deck, grapes and sunny evenings watching the sun set, absolutley priceless, Mastercard can't beat this.!

Friends

Then home again and our friends in good old Putaruru, who would be without them, this occassion Bob's rolled over the half century.

And Finally London

Where would we be without spending a little time in the capital and catching up with family and friends. London is still the same noisy, busy and expensive but once again worth the visit.

Dublin

The start and finish of our Irish tour, the Guiness Brewery and other high lights were all enjoyable. The city had atmosphere and we were even privy to a march by a group of Sein Fein supporters, with band and loud hailers to address the crowds, interesting we thought all this stuff was pretty much all over but obviously not. Great pubs and good food at reasonable prices.

Waterford Crystal

Colleen and I took a tour through the Waterford Crystal factory obviously at Waterford. Rather amazing what they can do with glass (crystal). This guy was cutting the pattern into the bowl and we were surprised at just how quickly and accurately he was able to make the cuts for the pattern. The glass cutters are paid on the number of complete items they produce that are then able to be sold to the customer.

Lunch Break

Now where else would you stop for lunch when in Ireland particularly if you are like me and happen to enjoy the odd beer or two. You can be sure to be sure that you will find something to your taste I know I did. It was even better as we could sit outside and enjoy the day while the locals go about their business.

Little People

Colleen was on the look out hoping to trap one of the special Irish lads and bring us some good luck, she even had a green camouflage as well but they were staying hidden today. Better luck next time.

Irish Weather

Now who says it always rain in Ireland. We were blessed with a week of beautiful sunny days, crisp in the morning but warm during the day. This is one of many castles / forts that dot the Irish country side, unfortunately I can't remember what it was called.