The BIG Trip

Sydney...then Aotearoa!

braynroni — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:23:00 GMT

Its 0727 Sydney time and we have arrived safely from Bangkok. Both tired, grubby and ready to stop but we’re almost there now!

Fortunately enough time before our flight to Christchurch for us to freshen up, download the latest journals and check our texts from NZ sim cards.

Departure set for 0830 to arrive in Aotearoa at 1330 today – weird, exciting and kinda cool...even though we don’t want the adventure to end!

Next up is a week or so of CHCH friends and whānau before Roni drives to Auckland and Bray returns to Nelson and Jack the cat – yay!!

Through Bangkok one more time...

braynroni — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:30:00 GMT

Arrived in Bangkok to go through more security checks before waiting in the warmth and sun (a change from London!) to board our plane after it had been cleaned and re-stocked. The flight to Sydney now – have had lunch, watched some TV and Roni has caught up on more journals.

During the flight to Sydney we watched a couple of movies and docos, napped, and Roni finished journaling up to date – yay!

Time to go home

braynroni — Mon, 9 Jan 2012 20:00:00 GMT

This morning Roni was up for brekkie with Laura before she took off to work. Rawiri was working from home so Roni kept him company while she finished her book until Bray got up. Once he emerged and made contact with the PS3 Roni went upstairs to try and fit everything in her bags. Once it all was spread out on the bed it looked an impossible task but...success! Yay! Bray finished up his packing after this while Roni and Rawiri took the dogs for an epic walk before returning to see Laura for her lunch break. Sad goodbyes as she returned to work then we two had toasties for lunch after a brief trip to the post office on the corner.

Time after lunch for a brief game of Citadels before we hopped in the car with Rawiri to find Heathrow Terminal 4 (where our itinerary said we had to be). A few interesting turns and fights with the Tomtom later we arrived safely there to hug Rawiri goodbye and head inside. Here we discovered that actually we needed to be at Terminal 3 – good times.

Fortunately we had arrived early enough to catch the train there and get through security checks without time stress. Met a cool fellow from Glasgow just in from Japan as we waited for the train then to check in. All went smoothly without any bag weight issues – whew!

Security was another story though...Roni through fine but Bray had coins in his pockets, an ‘incorrect’ size clear plastic bag for his liquids and got the full treatment including pat down, shoe removal and individual foot scan.

Once through we found our gate (a 20m walk) where Roni stayed working on journals while Bray foraged for food and drink. A tasty sandwich courtesy of Pret and UK Fanta kept us going until boarding our flight to Bangkok. A strong tail wind meant for good time but some serious and protracted turbulence in places. We watched Puss in Boots and Moneyball to pass the time not spent napping or eating/drinking.

Crawley with a Windsor bonus

braynroni — Sun, 8 Jan 2012 22:10:00 GMT

A cooked breakfast to start the day – bacon, qorn sausages, onion, mushroom, egg and toast. Tasty!

After midday we hit the road for Crawley, this is where Roni’s family lived when she was born but she hadn’t seen it since being a baby. Through Crawley we drove to Ifield where we searched out Ifield Hall where they used to live. We parked up and took the dogs out for a wander as we explored the property – we were discovered by a couple who had popped by to see their horses. They were uber helpful and walked us all over the place telling us about the history they knew and showing us what they could, the two memorials have been relocated – on to the golf club and another to the family who initially owned the property but we were able to see a lot before Milo immersed himself in the recently re-dug pond (about 95% mud!).

Time then to hose the dogs off and run them around to dry off before hopping back in the car for a trip to the hospital and through Crawley town itself. Many photos later and we were make on the M25 then heading to Windsor. This was unscheduled but Laura wanted to show us some of her favourite places so we dropped the car at her Mum’s place, picked up Kate her little sis then walked the dogs through town and up to the castle. Some cute places here including the Guild Hall and ‘crooked cafe’ among others, we explored until dark when it started to drizzle so we headed back to Laura’s Mum’s house. Here we fare welled the whānau before hitting the road again back to Codicote.

Once home Bray did a practise pack while Laura and Rawiri created a delicious chicken tikka before we relaxed over the movie Bootmen and games of Citadels and PS3 for the boys before bed.

Cake Catastrophe

braynroni — Sat, 7 Jan 2012 22:15:00 GMT

Today Laura had a big christening cake to make so that began early in the day. Everyone got up a little later than usual after a late night last night and relaxed with books/net/tv/NBA2k12/making cake decorations for a little while before Laura and Rawiri made us beans and eggs for brunch.

The initial cake dropped in the centre because of its own weight so there were ideas passed around of how best to attack the problem...Rawiri and Roni took the dogs out for a walk while Bray and Laura went to Tesco for fruit and potentially a bought cake to combine with/replace the droopy centred one.

On trial the replacement cake didn’t work out so Roni got into the kitchen and made a new cake with Laura. This one rose to massive heights and retained shape enough to be used and was definitely big enough to feed all it needed to!

While cake-rescue went on in the kitchen Rawiri and Bray fixed a leaky tire on the car before returning for a game of Citadels while Laura relished a break from the kitchen – she’d been in there all day!

Roni made her first carbonara for dinner with help from Brayden – it turned out very tasty and we powered through it. While relaxing at the table after dinner Laura found (and pulled out) Rawiri’s first white hair, what a privilege to be there for such an auspicious occasion! Here’s hoping for many more ‘wisdom hairs’ for the 30 year olds – Joe, Rawiri and Brayden now!

By now the massive cake had cooled enough to begin the icing process which had its fair share of ‘eeek’ moments but was a success in the end! The boys then had the task of delivery while Laura showered and got de-icing-ed.

When the boys returned we celebrated a successful and constructive day with fruit & yoghurt while watching The Billy T Movie that Rawiri had got for Christmas. We all learnt some things and had a good laugh while doing so. After it finished Bray put some Remember the Titans on for old times sake before everyone retired to bed – apart from Bray who needed some NBA before bed.

Quality PS3 time in Codicote

braynroni — Fri, 6 Jan 2012 23:20:00 GMT

Old man Bray had quite a sleep in this morning...Laura and Rawiri went off to work and Roni enjoyed a chance to read over brekkie before popping to the post office for one last birthday mission.

Once Bray was up we put washing on and Bray got the second half of his birthday present – NBA 2k12 and FIFA 12. Sufficient to say the remainder of his day was spent in much joy with the Playstation!

Roni got the washing sorted, read a little then chatted with Laura at lunch before heading out for a mini jog. On her return (and after a shower) we made toasted sandwiches for lunch. Then it was time for Roni to keep her word and play FIFA with Bray. We played each other without too many issues but playing on the same team proved too much for Roni to handle – too many things to watch and focus on at the same time... Still fun to share one of Bray’s passions.

Rawiri and Laura returned from work and we made pork stir fry for dinner while they had a breather. Chill out time after that while they walked the dogs and Roni called her Mum to check about Christchurch arrival pick up and the like. Laura had a night with the girls at a friend’s place tonight so Rawiri made us three some delicious fruit salad and yoghurt for dessert before we taught him how to play Citadels. He was well into it even though Bray won twice! Rawiri managed to win one and Roni got her lowest scores of all time.

After midnight Roni headed to bed to download photos from the last few days while the boys played FIFA on into the morning and Laura got back a while later after a lovely night with the ladies.

Happy Birthday Brayden!

braynroni — Thu, 5 Jan 2012 22:50:00 GMT

This morning Roni was up early for more laundromat time down the road – getting everything shipshape and clean for Chantell’s return tomorrow. The weather started wet and wild but eased off by the time Bray was awake. While the washing went through the cycle Roni went in search of birthday candles, printed out a voucher required for today and other bits & pieces.

An hour or so later she returned to open birthday cards with Brayden (thanks Margaret and Owen!) before cooking up the last of the hot dogs for a festive brunch enjoyed with some How I Met Your Mother (of course!). Once clean and dressed we ventured out and to the tube. Bray didn’t know what was in store so got excited when we disembarked at Piccadilly Circus as he thought we were going exploring there. Sad to disappoint him Roni still led on to the Piccadilly Line and we rode some more to Holloway Road.

A little walk through the rain and we were at Emirates Stadium, home of Arsenal football team. Here we did the self-guided tour and checked out their store. Many photos taken on the tour and we learnt things as well as marvelling at the sheer size and scale of the place! Eventually exiting we walked an exterior circuit of the stadium to see all the legends adorning it, facts, statues and such all around on our way to Ardsenal tube station. The rain had stopped by now though the strong wind persisted.

Next stop, Victoria and Albert Museum take two where we spent many happy hours exploring new areas as well as striking it lucky in the gift shop. We’d been searching fruitlessly for something in particular all trip and found it there! We had to leave as closing time loomed and we caught the tube to meet Roni’s Scottish mate Ayley at Leicester Square for a quick catch up. First time they’d seen each other for 6 years and so we fit a lot of communication into a short time while consuming tasty treats at Valerie’s Patisserie. Ayley had the healthy soup option while we settled on a tart aux fraises that looked like one we had eaten in France. It turned out to taste just as good too so we splashed out and had one each – yum!

Our next stop was back at Leicester Square tube station to meet Clare for the tent handover and final farewell. Though late for another engagement she ‘broke us off a little’ and came for a drink and chat before going our separate ways. It was sad to say goodbye as it has been so great having time with her here in London – at least we get to see her again this year!

Back to the tube station again then home to Maida Vale for a final pack/clean up before ‘suiting up’ for a celebratory dinner. Rawiri and Laura arrived soon after and the boys looked very dapper in their suits! We walked down the road to The Red Squirrel pub for dinner and a drink before heading back to the house and clearing all our gear out. On the car ride to Codicote we saw another fox! Though it had very dark colour and Rawiri was convinced of its wolf-ness.

The dogs met us with much enthusiasm then it was time for cupcake and candles for Bray – happy birthday sung too of course! Laura headed to bed soon after as she had work in the morning but the boys stayed up long enough for a few games of FIFA on the xBox before sleep.

Happy 30^th Birthday Brayden!!

Fun with ice

braynroni — Wed, 4 Jan 2012 23:45:00 GMT

Bray survived his first ice skating experience today – without falling over even once! An astounding feat. We headed to the rink at Natural History Museum nice and early to beat the hordes and were blessed with good weather this time. An hour on the ice was definitely enough as our feet weren’t used to the skates so getting a bit sore on it after a while. The feeling of ice skating was definitely something new and different for Bray who had understandably expected something a little like roller blading in terms of sensation.

We had a little bit of time after this before our next appointment so popped into Victoria & Albert – that museum is AWESOME. Bray was so wow-ed that he insisted we return tomorrow to give it some quality time on his birthday! What little we did get to see definitely amazed us and left us wanting more.

Next we jumped back on the tube to St Paul’s where we met Sheetal – a member of Brayden’s ‘sister flat’ in Wellington and an awesome chica. After wandering along the Thames for a while we made our way to The Banker (the ill fated pub we have been to while it is closed 2x already) which was open and ready to serve us – yay! We nabbed seats by the window overlooking the Thames and imbibed a cheeky beverage with some hot chips to sustain us as we caught up on each other’s news. SO good to see Sheetal and catch up! Eventually she left us to go and catch up with more Kiwi and Aussie mates at her next location. We walked her in the general direction to make sure she got there before heading back down to the Thames.

Now to Tate Modern, the building itself is ma-hoo-sive and a really interesting space for exhibitions. We started on the top floor and worked our way down through the exhibitions and installations until it was almost closing time. Great to see a few works Roni recognised from the various art classrooms she has frequented over the years (thanks Mum, Fee, Deb and others!) and we really enjoyed some of the installations and a number of the paintings and sketches.

Then it was time for evening prayer at Westminster Abbey after we made our way there through the drizzle. No choir tonight but it was still cool to meet where other people of faith have been fellowshipping for so many years and surrounded by historical figures and the soaring architecture. After the service ended we had a nosy around the church itself before passing Westminster and Big Ben all lit up with their Christmas tree still shining brightly.

Home on the tube and via the co-op to get hot dogs for dinner before hitting the packing and cleaning with breaks for How I Met Your Mother watching and eventually to bed – after midnight so we could HAPPY BIRTHDAY Bray before it was time to sleep.

Seeing some of our people...

braynroni — Tue, 3 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Today was pretty much the wildest weather we have had on the whole trip! It was raining a little bit this morning when Roni toddled off down the road to do our washing at the laundromat and while we ate brekkie the wind came up and rain kept falling.

Today we were on a mission to Harpendon. Roni has a family friend out thataways who has been part of their family’s life as long as Roni can remember so we definitely wouldn’t miss a chance to see her at home! Tube and train was our mode of transport through the wild weather and at one point the greyness of rain totally enveloped the train while wind gusted wildly and we couldn’t see anything! Glad not to be out walking in it.

Eventually we made it to Harpendon and scampered around the station until we found Pamela awaiting us in her little blue car. She had been insistent on picking us up and now we were truly grateful as the rain was still falling mightily.

Once safely at her place we ensconced ourselves in the lounge with a cuppa and talked over the last 20+ years while watching the rain clear and a beautiful view over fields emerge. The sun even came out and while we heated soup for lunch in the kitchen it got quite toasty in the sun – yay!

Tasty lunch of soup with bread, cheese and some oat cakes before more chats (while Bray sneakily did the dishes in the kitchen) until we had to tear ourselves away. Pamela kindly returned us to the train station...only to do the same trip a second time when Brayden realised he had left his watch by the sink while doing dishes!

Eventually we really did leave with hugs for and from Pamela plus greetings etc to pass on at home from her. After another hour or so on the train/tube we were ready for a brief breather at home in Maida Vale before heading out again.

Now we were on our way to Angel for a catch up with Andy Te Huna, a mate from back at Kapiti College. Tube services co-operated and we met him and his girlfriend Cecilia before wandering down the road for a beverage or two in a cute pub. Hunger drove us on after an hour or so and they took us to Gallipoli – a favourite Turkish restaurant down the road in Islington. Bray had a sizeable pile of assorted meat for dinner and Roni’s chicken and hummus dish was delicious! We all left full and happy, feeling like we could easily curl up a beanbag and fall asleep! Final farewells at the tube station before getting home to crash out in Maida Vale.

East London town exploring

braynroni — Mon, 2 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Today we set out to see some of East London as we previously hadn’t got in amongst it there a whole lot. Tube to Whitechapel where we exited to blue sky, sunshine and a commanding view of The Royal London Hospital before wandering the street markets marvelling at the fabulous saris and materials for sale, extensive range of fruit and vegetables (some of which we hadn’t even seen in SE Asia), alongside stalls selling anything you could ever need or want + some things you probably wouldn’t!

We were on the hunt for new carry-on luggage as our backpacks both have ongoing zip issues and did not seem large enough to cram in all we would need to on the way home. After wandering for some time along Whitechapel we happened upon the Whitechapel Church Bell Foundry which was established in 1570! All this before diverting down Brick Lane to soak up some history and culture, as well as grabbing a bite to eat..HOT chilli sauce included. Carrying on past mosque and graf we emerged at Spitafields Market which though being well above our price range definitely had some interesting history and was still adorned with lights and looking festive.

Carrying on back down Whitechapel we discovered a street covered in stencil, graf and sketches. Very cool – many photos later we carried on in our search for new bags...

Eventually in Petticoat Lane Market we found Rose Luggage who fit our bill. It took us an age comparing styles, wheels/no wheels, size and all the other factors but we left there with a new carry on each – success!

With our task of the day accomplished we ‘followed our noses’ past Aldgate tube station, nearing the Gherkin yet again, past Fenchurch Street Station (echoes of Monopoly) and towards Tate Modern. Time had passed by this stage and once again we left the Tate for tomorrow in order to really give it the time it deserved.

Instead we headed for The Monument. Passed many times on our London wanderings we didn’t know what it was in memory of or really what it was for. Arriving as the light was starting to fade we missioned it up the 311 steps to a view over London that was beautiful! Still enough light to see landmarks, locations and buildings but the lights of the city had begun to turn on too. Lovely.

The Monument itself is in memory of the fire of London, all those who died and all the landmarks, public institutions, businesses and homes that were destroyed. While up at the top (in the biting wind) we met two fellow Kiwis (Dale & Nicky) and ended up chatting with them until well after dark! After descending the 311 steps to be presented with a certificate at the bottom – a surprise – we then headed out in search of a nearby pub to share a beverage with the Kiwis. The Banker is a pub by the Thames we spotted on earlier ramblings and have been keen to visit, unfortunately it was closed when we arrived. We parted ways at the bus stop before us two caught the tube home to Maida Vale, stopping briefly at the supermarket to grab a few supplies for dinner. Weary after our walking East London we relaxed on the couch until sleep called us.

Lazy first day of 2012

braynroni — Sun, 1 Jan 2012 22:58:00 GMT

We all took it slowly this morning to get vertical. Eventually up, dressed and clean Roni and Laura tidied up and got ready to face the world while the boys went hunting and gathering. They returned with tasty kai in hand – hot dogs (frankfurter not battered type...Bray’s latest taste addiction), fresh bread, hot roast chicken and coleslaw. Yum! We all had a little of each before Rawiri & Laura hit the road to spend New Year’s Day in Windsor with Laura’s family. We two settled in for an afternoon of journal writing while watching How I Met Your Mother. Yes, this is a recurring theme – Bray now has seasons 1 through 7 and loves it so this may continue for some time!

Eventually we got peckish and had a dinner of coleslaw and left over chicken with peas and potatoes before an earlyish night – apart from the usual NBA watching...

Last day of 2011!

braynroni — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 23:59:00 GMT

Roni was up early being entertained by the ever energetic squirrels of Tooting over a cup of tea while she read a book before attempting further catch up on the journal with some success. Bray emerged eventually and after getting clean, packing our gear and chilling out for a bit we baked croissants for breakfast and had a real coffee again – yum! Clare hadn’t emerged yet and we had guests coming so hit the road – leaving Clare a wee pile of croissant and cheese scone with a note.

On our way to Tooting Broadway tube station we were waylaid by an op shop that turned out to be a treasure trove! Bray finally found suits that fit him – two deluxe ones for a grand total of less than 20 quid...plus a new cheese-cutter hat while Roni snapped up some wintery gloves and such for a couple of quid. Awesome.

By now we were really pushed for time so scampered off to the tube and home in time to tidy up and unpack some of our gear before Laura and Rawiri arrived. We were all a bit peckish by now so wandered up the road to the Co-Op for dinner, next day and beverage supplies before hitting Sam’s for a chicken based late lunch (after 4pm by the time we got home and ate it!). After catching up on everyone’s Christmas celebrations and listening to music we moved on to cards and beverages while taking turns to find old school tunes on YouTube.

A late nibble of pizza and chips had to keep us going before heading to Roni’s cousins’ place in Lambeth. The rain was coming down but we caught the tube and had umbrellas so all was fine. On the tube the ‘umbrella game’ was born...and so Bray had a lump on his head for NYE!

On arrival we hugged cousins, shared stories and beverages before getting to know the eclectic mix of people there until it was time to walk down to the Thames for FIREWORKS – excitement!! (yes...mainly for Roni) The rain had stopped by this stage so everyone was happy with that.

We four ended up separated from the cousin-based crew apart from Lucas the Lithuanian but saw the fantastic fireworks in with much cheering amidst the hordes. Roni had borrowed a container of bubble mixture from the cousins so blew bubbles all over the show – fun. Bray hugged a few randoms after the NY had arrived and we learnt how to say ‘Happy New Year’ in Lithuanian before walking back to the cousins’ place.

Here there were more beverages, some pizza and numerous chats with a few games before we decided to head home. The walk to another tube station was shared with Lucas our Lithuanian and Ben the keyboard player. We got there eventually amidst the hordes all heading out/heading home from the fireworks and made it safely home to Maida Vale. Time then for bed/couch to sleep – a good night had by all!

Catch ups and face masks

braynroni — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 22:42:00 GMT

All the relaxing, eating and drinking finally drove Roni to go for a jog this morning before getting clean and catching the tube to Richmond. She arrived early so explored the main street and centre of town before meeting Ali (friend from NZ – used to live in Plimmerton) around 10.30 for brekkie.

The place we intended to eat wasn’t open yet so after wandering down the road a suitable replacement was found and a happy few hours spent catching up on the news of years past and current events in each other’s lives. It was awesome to see her and we both chatted like we used to back in the day – no problems!

After this Roni came back to Maida Vale where Bray had enjoyed a big lie in... we had a late lunch after doing some chores and looking at pics from the last few days. A quiet afternoon in the rain with time for Bray to create tasty tasty cheese scones and make tired Roni have a rest before Clare lured us to Tooting with the promise of face masks and a glass of wine or two. We packed out overnight bags, caught the tube then called at the corner store for supplies before walking to her place.

Here we experimented with various face masks over a glass or two of wine with salt & vinegar chips before relaxing on the couch and playing some cards. A late night had with great chats and general good times.

The Natural History Museum...mainly.

braynroni — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 23:30:00 GMT

This morning we set out for the National History Museum, planning on maybe getting some ice skating in before exploring inside. Light rain put paid to that idea so we went straight inside instead. That building is COOL. We probably took more photos of the building details than the exhibits themselves! Though the exhibits were good as well...

First we entered through the Earth sculpture into the ‘orange zone’ where we learnt more about volcanoes, earthquakes (Christchurch always forefront in our minds), changing plate movements and more geological facts and figures and looked at fossils and other such fun.

Next to the ‘blue zone’ to learn about animals and birds where it was pretty sad to see the massive cabinet of hummingbirds, amazing the variety even among just that one species and the detail of their plumage and tiny nests, just sad to think how many birds died for one man’s collection. The entranceway into the ecology area was amazing! Lights and mirrors combined to make a huge blue sphere that seemed endless in each direction – focussing on water and ecosystems mainly within this exhibit. The detail on the walls, floor and ceiling of the original building throughout this area was fascinating and many photos and ‘excited pointings’ later we moved on.

Dinosaurs were our next goal (as was the case for hordes!). We weren’t sure whether we were keen to brave the cues so explored the great hall for a while before committing to the line.

It moved pretty constantly so approximately 15-20minutes later we entered the much hyped dinosaur exhibition. It was interesting though overcrowded so we skimmed our way through before exiting. More time for mammals next (including squirrels) then through to the ‘no holds barred’ human biology section that even made Brayden blush.

After this we found our way to a photography and sketching area where a purple crown jellyfish caught Brayden’s eye...on further reading Roni realised it was taken in Niue = much excitement all round!

To the exit through the great hall after this as it was almost 1pm and time to see the light of day. Roni had researched some op shop possibilities so we caught the tube to Baker Street where kai and drink was consumed before hitting the op shops. Bray found a couple of possibilities and some funky items were spotted as we wandered the whole area before leaving it for the day empty handed and heading for home after a fun few hours.

On our walk home we found a restaurant called La Ratatouille, a Swedish war hospital for British wounded during WWI, the St Marylebone Church Institute and Club, St James’ church on Spanish Place with a cool Nativity scene then home time.

We had a relaxing evening with screen time, dinner, back rub for Bray and a relatively early night (apart from Bray watching NBA online in the early hours of the morning).

Shakespeare's Globe and the Thames

braynroni — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:30:00 GMT

Today we decided to go ice skating at the Tower of London and visit The Globe Theatre. In the end only one out of two of these goals was achieved – through no fault of our own!

Set out early to beat the hordes and catch the Circle Line to the Tower...Unfortunately the Circle Line wasn’t co-operating so we tried bus catching instead. This led us a merry dance (fun on the top of a red double decker though!) before we caught the tube again from another station to get to the Tower. The time this took meant we arrived there with MANY Italian tour groups (and others)...only to find the ice rink was now predominantly liquid! Roni chatted to one of the attendants who said there was a generator malfunction on Christmas Day and no one was there so they are still working on being icy again!

So we carried on our way after stalking a few Beefeaters from a distance with the camera. Past Monument and along the Thames we wandered, admiring London Bridge, the old London Bridge Hospital, Hay’s Wharf and The Golden Hinde on the way. We discovered the Fishmonger’s Hall, Bray shared a hongi with a fish, rejoiced at finding The Banker pub, clambered down to touch the river itself and a barge or two, walked through an underpass full of educational tiled artworks about Southwark Bridge, and observed the Fruiterers & Vitners Hall before crossing Southwark Bridge itself to get to Shakespeare’s Globe.

Multiple photos later we paid to enter the museum and have a guided tour of the Globe itself. Unfortunately because it is winter (and people here are soft) there are no plays on at the moment so this was the only way we could get inside!

A couple of brief minutes passed watching some swordplay training then our tour began with Callum our guide and the horde joining us. After a brief historical chat we moved outside the theatre for construction information then in through the North Tower to the Yard and Tower Gallery.

More informative talking from Callum and once Roni got past the disappointment that the stage roof front was behind scaffolding (materials being replaced) she got to touch the stage and enjoy the experience. After being groundlings we had a chance to sit up in the ‘flash seats’ while Callum let rip with some appropriate quotes...all delivered in ringing, well articulated tones of course!

Back into the museum/shop/other bit after this where Callum told us about their newest project – an indoor Jacobean Theatre. It looks exciting and they have just got permission to light it with candles and torches as it would have been back then! Will be awesome when they get it done...

Time then to drool over some texts and fun things in the shop but we escaped unscathed and made our way back to the museum. Interesting displays and Roni managed to learn some new things even after teaching Shakespeare for 5 years or so! Some fabulous costumes seen that reminded us of Anna and Lisa with their creativity and skills as well as bringing home once again just how difficult Shakespearean gear is to move in!

The nearby alleys were our next destination, searching (with success) for the remains of The Rose theatre and the original site of The Globe. Along the river toward Tate Modern but we chose to save that for another day as it was almost closing time. Across Millennium Bridge – where we purchased some hot sugary nuts to sustain us – before following Victoria Embankment alongside the Thames to Cleopatra’s Needle.

Sphinx hongi accomplished and other shots taken then time to catch the tube home as it was decidedly chilly and we were ready for dinner!

Monopoly time!

braynroni — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 22:45:00 GMT

Even Roni was a slower starter today after her late night/early morning with The Godfather. Still managed some time watching the squirrels (the Tooting squirrels are hyperactive so there was much to keep her entertained), reading for a little and catching up on journals before Bray arose.

We then made breakfast and a real coffee (first non instant in some time) and shared the brekkie with Clare when she got up. It was then Monopoly Time!! Finally residing in a house that had original Monopoly we were amped to play it in London, near all the places that we have now been to and are properties we could then buy. It has been cool walking and tubing around London while recognising so many place names from a game we played so far away.

This game became epic (as they always do) and breaks had to be made for lunch, packing our gear, getting clean etc but in the end Clare owned us. Bray will tell you it is because of a poor sales deal made between Roni and Clare but this is hard to believe.

Eventually we packed up the board, got our gear and headed off through the drizzle to Tooting station. Tube home to Maida Vale where we cleaned up the place and did dishes before finishing the last Mars/Snickers ice creams in the freezer over an extended game of Citadels before a rub for Bray’s sore back and time for sleep.

Boxing Day in London

braynroni — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 23:55:00 GMT

Slow start today as all the food and beverages of yesterday had taken their toll. Roni was up with the squirrels and Lara for a morning latte before baking us all croissants from a can again – love those things! Games of Citadels were had with Brayden before we munched on leftovers for lunch and looked at photos from yesterday.

Then it was time for Lara to leave – sigh. Roni caught her first Tube with her and together they walked past St Pancras, Ghandi’s statue and registered at the Con Tiki office. After navigating the labrynthian (and not well signposted) corridors of the hotel we found her room and deposited her stuff.

Farewells on the street after this before Roni headed back to Clapham. On arrival we two and Clare packed all the leftovers and pjs for a night in Tooting! Woohoo!

Clare was looking after a friend’s place and we were going for a sleepover. After a tube and wander we arrived and settled in for the evening. There was an unfortunate mishap with the first batch of mulled cider during the ‘mulling’ process...this event left it totally undrinkable and as we were keen for another ‘hug in a mug’ Roni and Clare set out in search of replacement cider.

We had success on our little mission and on the way home Roni had a MOST exciting moment. There are many foxes in the UK and everyone has seen one and tells us all about them but we had still never seen one on all our journeying. On the way home from Tesco in Tooting...she saw one!! They move so slinkily! Like a shadow or a puff of smoke. This fox was in fine condition too – not a mangy inner city fox at all. Even Clare vouched for not only the sighting but the stellar quality of the fox... Happy Roni!!

While the girls were away Bray had the chance to call some family in NZ with Clare’s remaining free minutes so he had an exciting time too. Called Aunty Rena only to have the phone answered by ‘some guy’. After some questioning he worked out that it was Kacey, his best-friend-cousin who he thought was in Australia! Awesome to speak with him even for a wee bit, Bray got good news about the family Christmas celebrations and really appreciated the chance to catch up with whanau.

Once the girls got back and fox & family news was shared we mulled the new cider (with no problems) and then got to watch Home Alone – it is a family tradition for Clare at Christmas but we hadn’t managed to get hold of the DVD but...it was on TV! Yay!

Bray eventually went to bed while the girls stayed up watching The Godfather as Roni had never seen it. She still missed the last 15mins or so as it didn’t finish until around 4am! Argh. We have the film ourselves though so she can fill in the gaps at a later date.

Christmas Day!

braynroni — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 23:11:00 GMT

YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAY! It’s Christmas! Roni was up early watching for squirrels on the fence and emailing people back home but was soon joined by Bray and then Lara. Emails and facebook posts flying, soon followed by fake snow produced by Bray and Roni. It is so soft and fluffy...we had fun with it and a morning latte to pass the time until Clare emerged and Bray monstered her with the snow! Some presents were opened and exclaimed over next..a 3D squirrel picture, backpacking card game, a rubber chicken, partially consumed marmite, a Christmas lights necklace (promptly adorning our wee Christmas tree) and the penguin of death to name a few. Of course there were more ‘usual’ Christmas gifts like scarves, hats and body wash amongst it all.

Then it was time to bake croissants(from a can) and begin the breakfast production line. Everyone had chosen their ‘Christmas breakfast tradition’ food so there was a LOT to be prepared and we managed to get the time of readiness for everything matching for once! Salmon, poached eggs with hollandaise, tomato, mushroom , spicy sausages, bacon, fresh bread, pulpy orange juice and of course ribs for Bray! We pulled crackers, adorned our paper hats with stickers and shared the cheesy jokes.

After a few ‘shifts’ of breakfast we cleaned up before relaxing in horizontal positions around the lounge with Christmas music and movies on. Some quality Citadels had before we tackled the backpacker card game that Lara got from Roni and Bray. What a complicated game!! Lara and Roni tried to understand the instructions before giving up and letting Bray work it out. He eventually deciphered the rules and we gave it a go – even Clare got in amongst it!

Fresh air was then required so Lara and Roni headed out to Clapham Common for a walk and flew the kite. MUCH fun and we even got a few grins from people out walking as we ‘walked the kite’ around. Eventually the kite got ‘spinny’ as it sometimes does and we packed it up then kept walking. Families all over the show with scooters, bikes, footballs and dogs. We saw some squirrels and water birds, rushes and people fishing...eventually heading home to Clare and Bray via the church where William Wilberforce and other abolitionists used to go.

We got home to find the others already working on the meat and vegetables for tonight’s dinner. Well under way they were so we got in amongst it (where allowed!) and Bray got his NBA stream sorted so he could watch some of the Christmas Day showcase games while we watched some Spartacus on TV.

In time the kai was ready, and what a feast it was – roast kumara, carrot, potato, onion, corn, peas, amazing salad courtesy of Clare, new potatoes, ham, chicken and turkey...topped with mustard, cranberry sauce and Roni’s gravy.

There was some concentrated eating before cleaning up and relaxing again to aid digestion. Bray got some good NBA time then we all watched Independence Day on TV as Roni had never seen it!

A little more Citadels for Roni and Bray along with mulled cider all round before we were game enough to attempt the Christmas Mound with ice cream (the mini cupcakes had been slowly disappearing throughout the day). It was surprisingly tasty and everyone managed at least a little bit.

Eventually the late night last night plus all the warmth and kai today took its toll and we gave in and went to bed, dropping one at a time.

A good day with great company! Thanks ladies!

Almost Christmas...

braynroni — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 22:30:00 GMT

Time today for a slow start as we opened the last window on our advent calendar from Maren, wrapped presents for our orphan’s Christmas in Clapham and thought about Christmas in NZ for our loved ones...

Eventually we got sorted and headed to Clare’s. Time for shopping list making and scheming before Lara arrived – excitement!! Off to the supermarket next for a shop that turned EPIC. Seriously a whole lot more stuff in the trolley than originally envisioned – Clare and Lara were determined that each person would have the ‘essentials’ of Christmas the way they usually spend it with whānau! Finally we got out of there and lugged our purchases back to Clare’s.

Next to find room in the fridge and freezer for everything, a definite challenge which Clare conquered with ease. We found some Christmas music, stories of travels were shared, Christmas cards opened and nibbles consumed before Roni decided it was time to make Guiness Chocolate Cake (at Bray’s request). The cupcake and mini-muffin versions of this mixture worked a treat but Roni didn’t let the cake sit for long enough so when trying to remove it from the cake tin everything went horribly wrong! It went to pieces and became what is known as the ‘Christmas Mound’ – once covered in cream cheese icing with a candy cane on top it looked festive indeed. Clare helped ice the cupcakes and then it Roni cleaned up the baking mess/dishes before it was time to brew up a hug in a mug (mulled cider) for everyone.

An easy dinner of pizza and extra-strength garlic bread was the next step after which Bray did dishes before a game of Citadels. Lara was inducted into the joys of the game while Clare chose to watch instead before opening a present early – naughty!

More dishes had somehow been created through nibbling and drinking so Lara did the next load of dishes before the NZ Christmas Day communications began. Skype with Roni’s Grandma and Mum, phone calls to numerous Bransfield cousins and Lara’s parents called and she got to talk to everyone in their house!

Roni and Lara had gone exploring to find out times for carols in the vicinity and take a circuitous route home to explore more of Clapham in the dark. So, at about 11.20pm Bray, Lara and Roni toddled off to St Mary’s for carols and midnight mass. The place was PACKED! Standing room only if you were late and we sung some carols with gusto before mass and sharing Christmas peace with the peeps around us. Mass went long and we got home around 1.30 definitely ready for some sleep. It definitely now felt like Christmas!

Bubble truck!!

braynroni — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 23:20:00 GMT

Today we finally saw a car actually using the electric recharging station on Elgin Ave! We walk past it every time we go to the tube station or head down Elgin Ave and had noticed the designated space with glowing blue poles but it was never in use. Took a photo or two to capture the moment then headed off again.

We returned to Camden Town again today in search of Citadels and a potential summer clothing bargain for Roni...success on both counts. It was raining heavily – the only time we don’t take an umbrella of course...though we were at least wearing jackets!

As we walked down Camden High Street in the heavy rain after successful purchases we noticed some shimmery rainbow bubbles in the air...Roni tried catching a few and we wondered where they had come from. Looking for small children blowing bubbles was fruitless and suddenly we saw it...A BUBBLE TRUCK!! Much excitement! There was a vintage truck (with running boards a bit like Gumdrop) diving slowly along the road and it was blowing bubbles out of a pipe at the front of the left side running board. People were looking bewildered then laughing, smiling and taking pictures. It was like snow in that the bubbles floated through the air all over the place and made people act like kids again! We both got pretty excited and followed it back down the road (away from our destination) to take photos, film and touch more bubbles. There was an older man driving and singing Christmas songs through a karaoke machine loudspeaker type thing with a Santa in the passenger seat and an inflatable one on the roof.

Eventually we tore ourselves away and got back on the trains.

Next goal was the Late Shift at the National Portrait Gallery – this is on a Friday where they are open late, have live music, workshops and talks by artists and curators. It was still a little early so we first wanted to head back to the travel bookstore we discovered on the 21^st to purchase Lara’s Christmas present. The only problem was...we couldn’t really remember where it was AND the rain was really pouring down now!

After trying many options of route we almost gave up before our last effort bore fruit – yay! Back through the rain to the gallery where we discovered that as it was so close to Christmas none of the extra stuff was happening this Friday – except for a wee concert later in the lobby. Undeterred we headed into the collections (discovering through this educational experience the reason Nelson’s statue only had one arm!) and wandered between ages and styles. It was not only art but a history lesson and learning curve.

Near the end we even saw a couple of Andy Warhol works and a Freud or two. By this time the concert in the lobby had begun but we continued on and paid a little bit extra to see the Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize entrants before returning to the lobby where the London Brass Ensemble were ripping it up. Some great music appreciated before back out into the rain and to catch the tube home.

By the time we were back in Maida Vale our hunger got the best of us and we resorted to Sam’s (of the great chicken wings) for dinner. While chowing down we skype-d with Roni’s Mum in sunny NZ and caught up on all the latest news. It was great fun chatting and catching up on all the latest at her end, though eventually we released her to carry on with her day and relaxed a bit before hitting the hay.