Mud Fun

Just like last year, we got involved in the Naki Run Amuck event. It was held a week earlier than normal because the tides weren't going to suit the course for a midday event. But just the evening before, there was a massive storm with lightning, thunder and tons of rain! We could tell - the mud was so much deeper and muddier than last year! We were both exhausted even though it's only 5km! But we had good fun and our team actually finished 3rd overall! There were over 700 runners this year and our mate placed 14th overall! Good thing he was on our team.

I wish I had photos to share of it but it's just too muddy to take a camera and we didn't have anyone stationed on the sidelines to capture the muddy moments. Oh well, next year we'll have to convince some of you to come down and take part!

It's a long weekend here for Queen's birthday and we have a lot on the books for the weekend. We're trying to pick out some flooring for the bathroom, check out some paint colours to match, get me a new sewing machine (!), and watch the Chiefs win (hopefully). Not to mention Dustin's birthday so I have a cake to bake (raspberry black forest, I'll try to get a photo of that) and he has a double batch of beer to brew. And if there's time I have a costume to make because for my birthday we're having a fancy dress party (which is Kiwi-talk for a costume party). Here's a hint but I will not tell you until it's done...

Dustin started working a shorter work week this week (40 instead of 44 hours!) but the days are getting so short he hasn't had time to surf before it's too dark! So I will be hanging out with an old man as of Monday, at least for 12 days. No big festivities planned because he's not quite as keen as I am but I am sure at least a nice meal or something.

We have nearly wound up meatless May for another year and tonight we went to the vegetarian restaurant here, The Loving Hut. We shared a vegan burger, a giant bowl of laksa and a mango smoothie. The place is delicious and lucky for us, also sells fake meat so we got this "chicken" that was in our laksa that tasted just like fried chicken skin. Can't wait to use it in some wraps this week!

I've been wanting to write all week, and actually write something more thoughtful or less frivolous than what's happening with us this week. But it's Friday and we stayed up a little late last night visiting with Eric and Rachel so I am ready for bed. We were staying up to watch 7 Days and Jono and Ben (we only finally hooked up the freeview a couple weeks ago after being here since October! We needed a new antenna and apparently it didn't rate too highly on our list as we only just sorted it out....) but it turns out neither show is on! So we must be into the seasonal break. In the meantime, you should check out Rhys Darby's TV show, Short Poppies. We've only watched the first episode so far but it's going to be hilarious. Will certainly keep us entertained as we head into the proper winter season...