We just got back from five days in Pauanui, on the beautiful Coromandel Penninsula. We stayed with Bruce's Mum and Dad in their caravan, which they spend a lot of time in down at the beach, as it is on a permanent site. We had such a great time, not sure why we haven't taken the boys sooner! Had a couple of beautiful hot days, one that was like a flashback to winter in the middle, then another great day. The boys loved the beach and the caravan, and I think we'll be going back again very soon. Bruce and I even got to do some boogie boarding together, it was fantastic! Thanks Pat and Bob! Here are some photos:

Got to the beach a couple of hours before high tide one day, and built a 'fort' for the tide to come into.















It was pretty big!















The playground at the campsite was just over from the caravan. With hardly anyone there as the schools are back, and two trampolines the boys were in heaven (Bruce and I got to have a go too, hoping we could pass for 12 or under when nobody was watching!)








































Took a ferry ride over the water to Tairua, just across the estury.

Waiting for the tide to come in and break down the fort. We actually kept reinforcing it, so the tide came and went and it was still there.
















Pat and Bob bought the boys a boogie board each. They're still a bit young to be riding the waves, but loved playing on them, waiting for the water to come in and start floating them.
























































Of course you can't beat running from the waves for great beach fun!

The boys have both been full of colds and a bit miserable the last few days (crazy time of year for it in the middle of summer!). We have had a lovely distraction around though, in the form of Holly, a year old West Highland Terrier who lives in the house behind us. We often bump into Holly as she's going for a walk with her owner, and Sintra loves her and spends a lot of time over at her house (it's amazing to see a dog and cat wrestling and enjoying it, Sintra always comes back for more it's quite something to see!). Anyway, our neighbours have been away a bit during the daytime, so we have been taking Holly for a few walks, then having her here to play and keep her company. We have all really enjoyed having her around, and Connor and Byron just love her. I'm hoping we can make it a more regular occurance!