Our overnighter was in a former school building which was warmer than tenting. Its facilities had fantastic showers using the KiwiCash digital system.
On our way out of Wairaki, the main scenic feature was limestone rock formations. One was named frog rock.
The rest of the day turned rainy and cold!!! Not many photos could be taken as the conditions were so poor. The wind chill factor felt polar. Our fingers were numb carrying our sticks and when needed to be used for fine motor skills such as undoing buttons and working zips, it was tough.
Back home, the recent passings of Brian Clarke and Doug Gellert were in our thoughts. Both funerals I would have attended.
Back home, it has been tough for Sandie too, a knee injury has impacted her mobility and for the 3rd time possums have come down the chimney. All this culminates in your thoughts. There has only been two days so far when giving up has entered my mind, and this was one of them.
All Karl and I could do was concentrate on the now, lean into the wind and rain, and get to the night’s destination.
Thankfully, that destination was a connection through a teaching colleague of Sandie’s. Beau greeted us and said make yourselves at home. Once the fire was stoked and roaring our bodies started to recover. Though the distance covered was a more mild 24km, it felt double in difficulty. It had challenged us physically and mentally. Karl and I agreed though, sometimes you need that to appreciate all the good times.
I love the rock formations. Reminds me of my own home territory - the Northern Tablelands in NSW. It has been tough for Sandie but she is no doubt very proud of what the two of you are achieving. You are getting closer and closer to the end now. The onset of winter type cold does make it tough though. Just before we left Auckland, we even noticed up there it felt as if Autumn was really settled in. Sydney and where we are though were still rather hot. We are all behind you. Love Bronwyn
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