18th Dec day 64 shopping, schools out and nativity

We had a busy morning ahead of us so the 3 of us had written a comprehensive list in order to minimise the amount of time we were in the shops. Simon and Nicholas went off for an early haircut in Havelock North whilst I did household jobs. Nicholas had his hair cut with a much lighter fringe as Simon wants him to start applying a product each day to make it look more stylish. As you can see he was pleased with the result.

We began our tasks by going into Meeannee School to help Simon put the bigger items of furniture in place in his new classroom. On the way back to Hastings we called into see Carol, she manages a thriving Schools Out programme in Taradale. We arrived unannounced, I was amazed at how free and happy the kids were. Some were on their scooters outside bombing around the large covered playground with a member of staff encouraging them, some were in the pool having fun and the rest were in the hall doing all manner of activities. There was a large tv area with couches and 4 kids snuggled up under blankets watching a movie. There were 2 areas with laptops and games consoles, a dressing up area and then things to build and make.

The kids below are making scented soaps for Christmas gifts they smelt delicious with orange, lemon and lime scents.

We were then onto our next stage of the almost military operation which included the bank, stationers, K-Mart, The Warehouse and video shop before going to the library. We stopped briefly at the park for some unwind time for Nicholas.

 When all the jobs were done it was McDonalds for a late lunch. Nicholas had a voucher which he was given for taking part in the triathlon, which he needed to spend. Here he is enjoying his well-earned sundae on the way home.

We had some downtime at 904 before Simon went to meet Carol and Nicholas and I went to see a 'Walk Through' Christmas production at Hastings Baptist Church, where he and Philippa attend. It was excellent with the main parts of the story being told/acted out in different rooms and areas of the church. There was humour in it as well and it brought the account alive brilliantly.

It was impressive they had a real sheep and very accommodating pony in the outside area.

We had such fun in the car together singing carols and playing a nonsense game of singing car number plates to the tune of We three kings - as I said nonsense but I used to play it when Simon and Cheryl were little so it had to be done. We had supper and quality time together before he went to bed, just as Simon got home.