Ashburton 29th Feb

29 Feb
My watch is confused telling me it is March already and therefore my mother's birthday. I left the little camping ground near Geraldine thinking I would follow my new friend's advice and stay off the main roads. I thought I could trust my GPS to get me to the right place,  but it became clear that I could easily end up in going around in circles-not so bad in a car. Better the tried and true (but noisy) highway.  I managed the long bridges OK timing my run for minimum disruption to traffic.  Rain was forecast for tomorrow so thought about moving on to Christchurch but didn't have the energy.  The wind was picking up from the north so I picked the southern campground by the domain. The ducks are very noisy at the so I am hoping they will fall asleep eventually. Had a craving for KFC so indulged. Left me full all afternoon.  I am looking forward to catching up with the Bridges after a timely email from Alison S.
I now have a new scheme where I buy the local paper, read it, do the puzzles(one of my few obsessions  and then lay the paper onthe floor of the tent.  This gives insulation as well as protecting Tom's wonderful inflatable mattress from sharp objects.  Thanks Tom.
I am not looking forward to Christchurch - so much misery and loss.   And also on the positive side,  so much resilience. I think only 1 night.  I am pleased I came but I miss Kay and normal life in Hamilton. I am also looking to seeing some old friends in Wellington.