EASTER MONDAY

Trains used to run from Auckland to Whangarei and further north but the service has been run down so that now there is just the occasional freight train that goes out to the port.

This weekend carriages hauled by steam engine JA 1275 have been running.  We have heard the toots of the engine all weekend.

This morning was our usual Parkinson walk which was around The Loop.  It was a beautiful day.

After the walk we decided to see if there were any seats available on the train.  We were not very optimistic and were not surprised that the seats had all been sold.  We had time to go for a quick iced coffee before heading to a good vantage point to see the train.  I have always loved steam.  (a couple of big kids)

We then came home where Doug did a little bit more on the house.  (He is finishing the outside before he starts on the inside and it is time consuming fiddly work.) and I did some gardening.

On the news tonight we saw the Red Arrows celebrating 100 years of the R.A.F.  lead by a New Zealander.

Dog Walk

I haven't posted for a while - the painting is progressing well but slowly as it is fitted in around everything else that goes on from day to day.

Doug's daughter, Christine, was "babysitting" a bichon frise dog for the weekend and met us for a walk at the Town Basin Loop Track.

The "wave"

and the "waka" were looking good in the early morning sunshine.

the little dog enjoyed her walk - apparently, she lives out of town and doesn't usually have walks.

every time I tried to get a photo of them one or the other or both moved!!!