Getting there

 I can't believe how quickly that week passed. It's the middle of the month already and I haven't even started on my Christmas shopping. That doesn't worry me though, I've always loved the hustle and bustle of Christmas. 

I spent the afternoon at the eye clinic in the hospital today. We had intended dropping into the Warehouse on the way home to do some present buying - there was 30% off swimming gear, today only, and that's what we'd been asked to buy for a couple of the kids. It wasn't to be, by the time I was finished it was already 4:20pm and we were both hanging out for a cup of something, so straight home we came. 

From next week I should be appointment and obligation free though, apart from volunteering at the shop, so I'll  be able to get stuck in. I'm looking forward to it. 😀

Pigeons on the lawn outside the hospital.

So, until next time, take care.

Relax and enjoy the season.

Advent blessings to everyone.

Diana.

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.