I am officially unemployed with no fixed abode. In the last few weeks I think Ive had more hugs than I have (from people other than my family) in my whole life! There’s been an incredible outpouring of goodwill, encouragement and support.

We got given a beautiful Pounamu (Greenstone) from my work at Property Brokers which was especially blessed at a local Marae . They also gave us an amazing platter of food delivered to our hosts home where we are staying. Truly special!

My mother, Helen Whittaker and her husband Eddie also held a wonderful “Bon Voyage” lunch under the birch trees at her home with good friends. A really lovely afternoon.

..and then my cousin John and his wife and children arrived in Hawkes Bay also catching up to wish us well and also bought us a special gift. A laser carved wooden Maori message Kia Kaha . This basically means “Be Strong” . We will hang this in a special place in Polly to remind us when we need strength.