Making a splash

I think the spa pool has spoilt me when it comes to swimming in the sea. It just never seems warm enough.

However even I was in "boots and all" this Easter when we spotted a large school of fish in a tidal estuary. There were so many that the wee people and I were literally fishing with our hands - chucking the fish up onto the sand. Joined by kids from nearby tents and caravans we splashed and squealed as we grabbed for our dinner.

It would be fair to say, I loved my unplanned swim and followed by a tasty meal of fresh fish (baked whole with slices of lemon) served up with homemade chips and tartare sauce it couldn't have been a better day.

Easter Trees

Snowy Sussex

It has been a few weeks of extremes for me as I traveled from sunny New Zealand back to unusually snowy southern England and returning to sunny Northland again. And now it's Easter, already! I was inspired by a wonderful craft shop in Sussex where the owner Philip had made a fabulous Easter tree in his window. 

I haven't seen one since I was a child when my non religious Grandma religiously made me one every year. 

 So when I got back home to the beach we made our own special kiwi version, thanks Philip. Happy Easter everyone!

Easter Eggs from the Bay

Due to the time of year, I often think of our passionfruit as a type of Easter Egg. They start ripening around late Feb and we are inundated by Easter time. The kids fill their t-shirts and then rush inside to gorge!

None left for me!

This year I've had two plants die from some random disease (perhaps I need some of Blue's fish guts?) but my remaining two plants have been prolific - actually managing to keep the kids satisfied for the first time ever.

I've put some of the excess fruit into egg containers to send to family in colder climes - it's always  nice to get an unexpected treat in the mail.

Of course there is no substitute for good chocolate and I can't wait to get my share come Easter!