A short stroll around the lake

While my little mother was in hospital recently I had the opportunity to go for a stroll around Hamilton Lake or Lake Rotoroa as it is known in Maori. Ten minutes walk from my motel I found the lane I had been directed to and walked from a busy city street to a tranquil lakeside walkway.

There  were marvellous houses backing onto the lakeside, some with low fences and others opened up to the lake vista. 

The lake was surrounded by native flora and of course

 a lot of bird life.

Quite a number of cheeky Pukeko,

a solitary Shag,

Mallard ducks,

a few Australian coots, (related to the Pukeko)

and a good flock of Canada geese.

I came across a wonderful children's playground

with this fabulous climbing fort. 

There was also a nice cafe nearby but I never went in,

 I didn't have time as I was heading back to the hospital.

Of course there were also the usual doves or pigeons, 

you don't go far without seeing them around.

The sun was getting low in the sky as I headed back

 to the entrance and I got this shot of the lake.

I enjoyed this nice peaceful walk, away from the 

hustle and bustle of the city and everything happening at the hospital, a lovely way to recharge my batteries.

Thank you...

...to everyone who prayed while Mum and I travelled this week.

We had a disappointing trip north  - discovered that little mother was not even on the waiting list for surgery, but she is now. It could take up to 4 months before anything happens though. At least the scan happened so it was not a totally wasted trip but very tiring for an 87 year old.

So once more we are playing a waiting game. She now needs to be reassessed regarding living alone. At the moment she is still with me but wants to go back to her own home, understandably.

Here she is waiting in the hoist, or pope mobile 

as they called it, to be put on the plane.

Once again I thank you for your kindness and prayers.

************

Normal service will resume 
next week, hopefully :)
Diana