Well, thought I'd better add my wee tuppence worth and say a big hi from Tauranga! Can't belive we've been here for 10months now!!
We have now bought a house in Omokoroa, property prices are steep but we've managed to bag a house near the beach, 5 bed, loadsa garages, sounds flash but it's basically a do-up, looks like a giant shed really but hey, it's home!!!! Will try and upload some pics of us all and some of Maggiemoo as well but my track record with pics and uploading is not great!
We are managing (only just !) on Mike's salary but I make a bit of money selling my jewellery, will probably go and get a real job once youngest goes to school in August. All the girls totally love living here, I asked them tonight if they missed Scotland and the youngest piped up 'I miss haggis' (strange child) the other two looked blankly and said 'nah'!! Mike and I both love it here and hope to grow old and wrinkly in this beautiful country. We have made loads of friends and feel lucky to have settled so easily.
Mike is now in his 4th carpentry job since arriving, all moves have been for better money, he started off on $15 an hour and is now on $25 which is pretty ok. Things are done differently here and it's been a learning curve for him but it's all good! He's now a voluntary fireman in the village and is really enjoying it.
My Dad is recovering well from his throat cancer and both he and my Mum came over for 6 weeks in March, was fab to see them and spend time with them, my Mum drove me nuts with her fussing but at least the ironing got done
. Seeing my Dad and what he's been through in the time since we left UK made me feel really guilty about being so far away (i'm an only child) but he is happy that we are happy and they are both hoping to come over here and live once Mike & I have been here the 3 years and try and sponsor them.
I've been on a bit of a downer since Maggiemoo went home and I miss her, I keep picking up my mobile to text her and then remembering the time difference
Dawn, was in PacknSave today and saw RED wine on sale for just over $5 a bottle!!!! Get over here girl!! Won't be long now! Look us up if you're planning to come over to Bay of Plenty!
Debd, don't go to Dunedin, come to Tauranga, we will set up a bead shop!!! Have found a couple of good Aussie wholesalers so will PM you with the details!!
Carolynne