Home to New Zealand

Sadly, I had a quick trip home to New Zealand to support David and attend Marilyn's funeral as she had lost her batlle with Cancer. This was a very sad occasion, she certainly did try hard to beat it but sadly it wasn't to be. The only blessing being that she has had the opportunity to finally rest in peace. These are some of my photos and thoughts.

Rain drops, tears falling from the sky.

Balloons, angels, dancing and climbing,

Showing a pathway through the grief.

Released from the pain and suffering.

A beautiful person now rests in peace.

Sadly missed but not forgotten.

Ian, David and Wayne.

Two brothers supporting the other.

As we all say our goodbye.

The rain says it all.

Marilyn is about to leave

The property

Families are there to support and care.
Marilyn had touched the lives of all there.

Life is pecious, we have to make the most of it while we have got it.

Langkawi Weekend

Recently the Orchard team had a weekend away on Langkawi Island. It was a great two days. First we all went up on the Rope way (gondola) and enjoyed the spectacular views over
Langkawi and the Andean Sea. We returned to the hotel and wandered around the corner for dinner. Kuah town has a number of shopping centres, we seemed to be a little away from these but found a great area of local food places. The following day I went on snorkelling trip out to Pulau Payah, one hour by ferry. The other teachers went for a morning Island hopping tour and Ruth stayed around the hotel and checked out the local sights. There were lots of good adventure stories over dinner that night. We flew back early in time for work on Wednesday.

The Groper were huge.

This fish kept me entertained for quite some time.

The anemone attracted this fish who didn't like me getting too close.

These guys were around in abundance. They wanted

to eat anything their mouth contacted including fingers and elbows.

Looking out to the boat from the beach at Pulau Payah.

A great day out.

On top of the rope way, probably the steepest we have been on.

This bridge leads to nowhere, amazing views.

The team enjoying each other's company over lunch.

This was a great weekend.