Unexpected bonuses

The long weekend

During the long weekend Peter and I biked the Lake to Lake cycle trail from Manapouri to Te Anau and back.  We’ve got ebikes so a long ride becomes doable and enjoyable.

Beautiful Waiau

The ride was one of the most beautiful we have ridden so far.  The majority of it weaves it’s way along the majestic Waiau River. A short part of it is on the road but luckily it wasn’t too busy so we felt nice and safe.

Pete’s Aunty

There were a couple of unexpected bonuses that made my weekend.  One  was a decision to visit one of Pete’s aunties who lives in Te Anau.  Her husband passed during the first lockdown and like many of our parents siblings (and us) they are all getting older.

Pete’s Aunty was so pleased to see us and our time with her was a delight.  We talked about family, how much Pete looks like his namesake, her father and life in general.

I’m terrible at visiting

I have to be honest – I am terrible at visiting.  I don’t want to impose on people and waste their time which is my “stuff” not theirs. But this visit reminded me once again about the importance of whánau and keeping connections strong.

A delightful book

The second bonus was a trip to the local Paperplus in Te Anau.  I love books and I found the most delightful illustrated book called “Big Panda and Little Dragon”. It is full of wonderful anecdotes about life and adversity – Big Panda and Little Dragon travel through the four seasons of the year.   It was written and illustrated by James Norbury who never quite had the courage to start a support group and instead thought that he could convey powerful messages through his drawings, which he does.

Next time you are in your local bookshop or library see if they have it and have a wee read. I hope it brings you as much peace and delight as it does for me.

As I mentioned earlier, the ride was amazing but the little bonuses made a great day special.

Aroha nui

Kim