As Korina and I were going away in January to Cuba, we stayed in London for the xmas and New Year period. Initially we had wanted to go to Cuba then, but it was going to be twice as much, so really wasn't worth it.
We had Cam and a couple of Nicky's mates over for what turned out to be a very drunken xmas day! A large amount of champagne and espresso martinis resulted in our lounge being converted to a break dancing pit.
Korina was surprised that no one ended up in hospital (there was a lot of enthusiasm, but not much skill on display).
New years was also in London. We headed to a pub in Primrose Hill and then to a house party. Unfortunately I was just not feeling the love.
The girls did embibe in a bit more break dancing once we got home.
Mum was graduating with her PHD, and Cam and I had planned to surprise her by arriving just before her ceremony. Jessica was also getting her LLB.
Somewhat amusingly, Dad had not been able to tell them that we were coming, and so they had tried to give their tickets away to friends. Unfortunately for Mum and Jessica, they were in Melbourne when the tickets arrived, so Dad just intercepted them and blamed the University for mucking up the tickets!
However, nothing is ever easy. Two days before we were due to leave and Granny passed away after a long illness. Although it did turn what was supposed to be a celebration into a more sobering time, it was good being back for the funeral and to support Mum - she said that she almost cried when she saw Cam and me arrive.
It was a pretty intense and emotional week. I was pretty much busy from the moment I stepped off the plane, to the moment I stepped back on it 5 days later - so much so that I didn't get the chance to look up anybody in Wellington, which is something I usually like to do. Oh well, maybe March will be a bit more relaxing!
