Almost time to leave

We have been practicing the tradition maori hongi ( kus).
This greeting is special and made with respect.

When welcomed onto the marae this is the way one is greeted.

Our tummies are getting quite unsettled just one more sleep!

On Tuesday the 24th we went and collected our tickets We followed that up with a visit to " Brasserie 't Stief Kwartierke to enjoy a coffee with waffle. The owner Jurgen himself has visited New Zealand together with our tv chef Herman Blijker.






We enjoyed a  Brusselse Wafel with warm cherries and cream. Delicious it was....

Once home mum and I read through all our travel documents making sure there were no unanswered questions and unexpected unknown issues. Now was the time to ask questions with having our travel agent at hand.

Just one last photocopy session and we were satisfied we had all we needed.



Saturday, we had a lovely send off with family, friends and colleagues who all wished us well.
It was most heartwarming. We were also spoilt with lots of reading material to pass the many travel hours ahead.

Reading material...............

Start them young....!

And there it is Sunday the 1st March 2015

Today is SURPRISE MUM day!

Am I glad this day has finally arrived. Not only was my head and heart full of our trip - I had to keep this part a secret. Occasionally I would almost spill the beans. Glad that's over.


Patricia van Noort from 't Bakstertje baked and decorated this awesome cake and Ruud and I made some meringues.

Awesome cake don't you think?. 

Our own meringues