24/1/2026 catching up and fire show.

Another bright start to the day other than I wasn't first in for breakfast. Some cheeky twat had beaten me to it. Rude. It could have been worse, they could have been in my seat right by the coffee and that would have been a problem. 

Papa Tom came by to check on me as I was having breakfast, and to say how pleased he was to see me enjoying the sunshine yesterday.  It’s a nice feeling having these strangers looking out for me and wanting me to be ok. 

The fine weather held off while I was having breakfast but a big fat rain cloud rolled in as I was on my way back to my room to get changed for the day, and that was the end of the sunshine until lunch time. It meant that I had a catch up on FaceTimes which was truly delightful and has given me a big old boost Thankyou very much.  I’m trying so hard not to be a burden on people and give everyone a break from me after the last twelve months, but sometimes I just need to see those familiar faces. So I’m really sorry, I will try to be less needy on my return.  

After lunch the sun returned and it was scorching so I went and assumed the position overlooking the ocean. I was greatly relieved to see the interlopers were not in the resort today and the anxious feeling that had been in my chest lifted as soon as I realised they weren’t there. I had a contingency plan if they were. I’d planned to catch the shuttle bus to the other resort out of the way. Although that might have been a bad move, because at least here I’m looked after somewhat. The other resort that wouldn’t necessarily be the case.  Also … it’s not adults only, it allows small children in. Sooooo not such a great idea at all really.  I will get over there at some point just to have a nose if nothing more.  Also, once the ocean has calmed its tits and stopped stirring up the sand I can go snorkelling. Just not today it’s far too choppy and cross. The access to the ocean is again closed because the rip is so bad so the pool is the only option for people.  

I met a lovely lady from Sydney in the pool today,  here for her 60th birthday on 31 Jan. Her name is Forzia and she is really chatty. One of those ladies you don’t need to do much talking to, which is just perfect today. There are loads of people flying in to join her over the next few days and who will be staying for the duration to celebrate her birthday with her. She’s got a lot planned for it! You’re only 60 once after all. Si is forever 60 but I didn’t tell her that, I’m pretty sure she wouldn’t want her birthday celebrations dampened with that particular little nugget. 

I’ve had messages from the Christchurch ladies checking in on me and making sure I’m ok which was lovely. I am surrounded by simply the best people both here and at home, I’m truly blessed and forever grateful to each and every one of you. The rain is horrendous in NZ as they are having their worst summer in years. It’s a bloody good job I’m in the Cookie Islands as Ella calls them, at least the rain is warm here and doesn’t last long. 

It’s been 30* today,  but the humidity has been at 90% which is ridiculous, so the sweat has been pouring out of everyone. It's the UV index that’s been the highest, a lovely 12, which is extreme.  No complaints from me of course. Except maybe the humidity, I wouldn’t mind that being a smidge lower so I can actually go more than two steps out of the air conditioning without getting drenched. That’s what you get for visiting tropical islands in the wet season though.  Ah well.  

After a rather successful afternoon spent improving the tan, I elected to go for an early shower then  having a little nans nap before going out for 2030hours to watch the fire show. It all worked out splendidly, I got to the sand bar area in time to watch volunteers dance a chicken dance. Interesting, best sums up that one, which is why you never volunteer on holidays!!

It was then followed by the fire show, which was excellent. Weirdly it made me very emotional, it was the first time I ventured out of the room after dark since I arrived.  I know I’m a weirdo, it's just more comfortable to stay in the room. I feel less alone.  And that was the issue tonight, despite being in a crowd of people I was just overwhelmed with loneliness and it’s a pretty horrible feeling, a young girl standing next to me made polite conversation but I was hyper aware of the sheer number of couples which just emphasised my situation.  So I’m not doing that again. Fuck off. I’m staying in the room by myself of an evening. I’ll go to sleep, it’s more friendly and actually far easier. And yes I’m a coward. Don’t even care. 

The fire show was impressive to be fair and I think everyone enjoyed it. However I heard Si’s voice in my ear telling me to keep away from the flames which made me smile because it bought back the memory of lighting a full pack of sparklers in the house and him calling me a fekin idiot for it on my birthday.

There was a really irritating lady who kept standing up in front of me videoing and taking photos.  I wouldn’t have minded but for the fact the stupid cow had secured one of the seats, so just park your arse on it, stay there, and quit with the up and down like a yo-yo spoiling other people’s views . I gritted my teeth so hard I was afraid of popping a crown off because  I was on the verge of causing her a serious injury. Unfortunately for her and me, my ever present rage was bubbling extremely close to the surface tonight. As soon as the show finished I made a sprint for the room, before I murdered some bobble headed idiot who unwittingly crossed my path. Where’s the punch bag when I need it???? 

I was really pleased to get back to my safe space so I could try and unwind. My teeth are still clenched tightly but I’m wondering if  the gallons of coffee I’ve been drinking is contributing to that or if it’s just people. Maybe tomorrow I’ll try less coffee… we’ll see. 

So that’s today. I’ve tried going out and I don’t like it at all so won’t be doing that again thankyou very much. Tomorrow it’s market day, I’ll see how I feel in the morning as to whether I go or not. Another massage might be nice and also perhaps some shopping. If I go I’ll get the clockwise bus as it drops off at the market on the way to the depot which make life simple.  Alternatively I may not bother at all as it’s a full sun day on the weather and do I want to waste a sunbathing day? No I do not.  

Much love

Mrs Leonard

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