Flooding on Dutchess

3 AM was not a good start to the day! Ruth woke us to tell us that the floor and carpet were covered in water and the toilet overflowing. The next few days were spent drying out. A carpet cleaner pulled the excess water out of the carpet and loaned us a large fan, water was removed from the ceiling of the basement storage area and sucked dry by a shop vac. The final drying out was accomplished by running a dehumidifier for several days. Note the pantry  has been removed to dry out.

All has returned to normal after a week or so.

Surprise the 5th of June is here, Bill's 70th!

The 5th started on a very pleasant note, going out for a Brunch with Brian and Marilyn. Little did I know at this time that a surprise party was planned at John and Peggy's that night.

Catching up on VRC news with Barry and Sue.

 Conversations on the back deck.

Note the pictures above Brian's head of the last 35 years, can't believe them all!

 A wonderful dinner, it is amazing how quite we all were for at least a few minutes.

Mike came well equipped with a few very 'old' stories...we have been friends since high school, when we were 15 years old.  

 I've definitely been spoiled with so many great cards and gifts...thanks to everyone for the memories.

Entering the 7th decade!

Celebrations started a little early when Pat & Nancy and Steve & Anna had a short visit at Brian & Marilyn's.

 The surprise cake and celebration were a real delight!

Our walking companions

Nisse caught while trying to get into my suitcase.We were visiting Mike and Deb for the weekend.

Everyone relaxing after a long walk. Deb, Suzie and Reba in the foreground.
Monte, Nisse and Kath on the couch.

Classic Caravan

Just before leaving New Zealand in April we acquired a 1974 Classic Caravan.These units are gaining a lot of popularity. It comes with a LPG stove, refrigerator, and hot and cold water. Sleeping for 3, unless you want to try the floor. Later this year we will get it all hooked up and have a chance for new travel adventures.

 

Pool Side

Kath is in and enjoying it, but Marley is not sure!

Bay of Islands house sitting.

With Marley a 1 year old Schnauzer to look after for a couple of weeks we moved into a beautiful river side home, including an infinity pool, looking down the river and out to the Bay of Islands.

Full moon reflecting over the 'Bay' on the river and the pool.

The tide is out on the Kerikeri River, but at high tide we enjoyed watching the passage of launches and yachts  navigating the river carefully.