Southern Soujourn
I haven’t posted for a while and I would like to say its because I have been too busy taking fungi photos. But its actually because I am in Christchurch taking care of my mum who managed to tear her rotor cuff and has been unable to be by herself. She is failing fast and this has just accelerated things. Diagnosed now with dementia and Alzheimer’s its funny as she will constantly say “well at least I haven’t lost my marbles” A sewing/knitting/doll making/art project pack rat, I have been swimming in boxes and boxes and boxes of stuff and trying to help her let go of them of she can have some space on the table and in the house. I would say to date I have been about 10% successful which, although small is better than any of us have been able to achieve at any other time. It’s so hard for her to lose her memory and she is aware that she is and its frightening her. It’s full on but we are finally getting some support and I am hoping this will allow me to have a wee break while I am here and leave maybe by the end of the week.
Fortunately for me I have been feeling better and seeing the sun down here has helped. I am pretty sure Rotorua is trying to be the new Atlantis with the non-stop rain and weather bombs.
When I do get back I will of course be back to my fungi photo obsession. The green mushies will be just coming out if the rain hasn’t completely destroyed them and then there is always the treasure hunt for the blues. Something about being out in the wild natural bush that is very calming and at the same time quite exciting, scrambling up banks and skidding down gullies and seeing how the whole forest can change with just a little sunlight from a tree fall or a change in the moisture level. After the emotional intensity here I think even the rain won’t keep me out of the forest.
The Traveling Kiwi 
Bless you heart and may God lift some of the heart break of your Mom’s decline.
I know the pain. Dean is slowly going down hill. He will be 79 on Thursday.
Sending lots of hugs for and Mom if she remembers.
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Hi Emma
Thank you for your kindness and support. It’s so good to hear from you. I am back in Rotorua for a few weeks then I will go back to Christchurch to spend more time with mum. It’s getting cold now and our heating broke, going to be 4 weeks till they can fix it. Thank goodness for friends who have lent a heater and good insulation. It’s just getting into summer for you and I am not sure if it’s harder to deal with the heat it the cold. At least I can go to bed with a hot water bottle 😊Pray that you are well and happy. Please give Dean my regards and best wishes although I am a bit late for his birthday.
Love kristina
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We are ok. Getting ready for kids to be here for fathers day.
I came across a note from your Mum a few years ago after sending some fabric to her. Made me miss you more. Take care stay warm.
Hugs
Emma
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