From the Library

I've found a free internet service at the public library where I don't feel obliged to buy a glass of wine to check my email.  Too bad.  Still it's another option, although I compete with a number of backpackers for a seat at the table.  They only allow each person one hour of internet time, which is plenty for my needs. 

This is NOT the library but the Allan Scott winery in Marlborough.  We were there last week for lunch.  Bob and MJ will recognize the garden and restaurant area.  Life is good and the food is even better.  We had a wonderful Thai Bang Bang chicken salad, and of course, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. 

Typical bush walk here with fern trees.  This was along our hike to the Barnes dam last week.  And here's my hiking partner at the top of the dam.  Behind him is the huge reservoir. We walked up from below along the water pipe that feeds the water system of Picton.  The path is beautiful with lots of ferns and native trees.  Cicadas chip in great pusating waves in certain patches of the bush and there are lots of song birds, in particular the Bell Bird. 

We'll be watching the Super Bowl with you tomorrow although it is Super Bowl Monday here.  It's also Waitangi Treaty Day, a national holiday.  Look it up!