hey hey. well ive had an eventful 4weeks. went away with my band to wanaka, queenstown and nelson for 10 days before spending a week in the sounds with the family (thanks guys) which was really nice. was cool to catch up with jen, pete, liv (briefly) and dave on my travels. the day after getting back i moved to my new flat in staveley st, had a few days with 2 of the flatmates before they went away then had a week by myself. my other flatmate started moving in and on monday we got robbed.. unbelievable. not the most fun thing to come home at night to an dark, empty, ransacked house i have to say. my room was the main target, the list of missing things so far is around 50, cant believe how much stuff i have! well.. had. fortunately mum had already reminded me that i needed insurance so i was actually insured, unlike my flatmates. am off to auckland tomorrow for the weekend, nelson in 2weekends time, wellington the fortnight after that to see a jazz concert, its all go. plus im currently working out which papers to take for music honours this year. hows everyone else? haha

Happy New Years from Timaru.

Tuesday, January 1, 2008

Hi to everyone and Happy New Year to you all, wherever you are.

We had a great few days in Auckland----we went to Banque with David, Mary, Jeff and Kate for a sumptious birthday dinner----Excellent food, wine and company.

David, Mary and 2 others signed up for a new apartment on Monday, while we went shopping in Newmarket. At 11pm we all went to Saint Mathews in the City for a Xmas Carol Service and paid $19 for 90 minutes parking at Sky City Casino.

Xmas Day was big dinner day at Parkfield Tce---bacon wrapped prunes, lovely glazed ham, salads, new spuds and chocolate souffle with berry sauce and ice cream for dessert. Fantastic.

On Boxing Day, off to the Ellerslie Races. A new experience for us all, and while Jeff made money, David lost money, Ashley came out just better than even. A good day out, followed by an excellent meal at Marys parents place on the North Shore.

We flew back South on the 27th, and have been taking life pretty easy for the last few days. Caught up with the lawns, garden etc.

Yesterday was wettish in the morning, so we cleaned out the office, recycled lots of paper, books, and general accumulated stuff. I have also started reading Gareth Morgans latest book that Barbara gave me for Xmas---we stayed at home last night, and I have almost got itfinished.

We are meeting John and Jean at Caroline Bay for lunch in an hour or so. Then we will watch the traditional concert.

I go back to work on Thursday and we are going camping to Pohara near Takaka for 10 days starting on the 15th. We may see some of you in our travels to and from.

Take care and have a great 2008.

The wedding invites have been sent---so if you could get them back soon, that would be very helpful. Thanks.

Cheers, Ashley and Barbara.