Barbara's travels continue 2018

After a relatively quiet few weeks, everything happened in one weekend. I was lucky enough to be asked to look after my lovely 'grand cat' Stormy. He is a gorgeous creature, even if he isn't keen on cuddles! Believe me, I tried! It exhausted him, as one can see😀 I had a very interesting Wedding Celebrancy writing course over the entire weekend. it was extremely intense but we had an interesting group of would-be celebrants, so it was a great couple of days. Poor old brain felt battered. On the Saturday My good friends from Pfaeffikon, Kurt and Carmen, arrived and we had a lovely time catching up and from Monday to Friday exploring Christchurch and nearby areas. Unfortunately, the weather was not super kind to us, but we were lucky not to have the continous days of rain which they had forecast. We were able to get out and about every day. My old favourites, of course, were included, starting with a visit to Travis Swamp which really looked different from a few months ago .

Due to broken or cracked ribs, my spring was somewhat different from what I had planned. Tennis and gardening had to be put on hold, but this meant more time for walks alone or with friends. It was a chance to rediscover this wonderful place I call home. Just 30 minutes walk away is the magnificent Ilam Gardens. In previous years I seem to have missed the absolutely fabulous azalea and rhododendrum blooms. With such tranquil settings, the little stream weaving its way through native bush and European plantings along with the dulcet sounds of the bellbirds, it was a small oasis just next door to the uni and minutes from the city. A special place indeed. In the city itself, we are lucky enough to have Hagley Park, and to one side the area known as ' Little Hagley', one of my favourite corners of the park, especially on hot days. My garden looked gorgeous too, despite the building going on next door. My cherry blossom was stunning and filled me with such positive thoughts as I op