Once again I have not kept my word and have neglected this blog. My apologies to anyone who does actually read it!
We are now well settled in Palmerston North. I am feeling suitable ashamed of any disparaging remarks I have made about this town in the past as we have been welcomed back here by old friends and some wonderful summer weather. It really does feel like home for now.
Luis is now well into his studies, and enjoying them (all but the assignments anyway!). He is taking classes in human geography, linguistics and political theory. His biggest challenge continues to be pain. The headaches continue, and to add to that pain while we were on holiday in January he injured his knee. We expected that after a few weeks of rest and physio it would be fine but it was not. He has been to see a specialist, and is now awaiting surgery for to repair damage to the cartilage. Just as well he has to sit still to study! It is very frustrating for him though, particularly as he has to sit out the university soccer season.
I am slowly settling into my PhD study, accumulating a vast pile of paper and books to read my way through and enjoying the intellectual stimulation of the department. While I was initially hesitant about returning to Massey, I am very happy we have. It has been good to reconnect with old friends, and with several of the staff and students also having young families, it is a very understanding and family friendly environment.
Maya has also slowly settled into her department- the university childcare centre. She likes playing with the other children and doing new and different activities, although she still doesn’t like the fact that we leave her there. I’m sure she would love it if Mummy or Papi were able to stay there with her all day! She is growing up very fast- check her page for an update.
We are currently living in a university family flat which is situated on a ridge above the campus. It is a 10 minute walk to my office, through bush and gardens (and down 150 steps… up 150 steps to get home!). On days when I am not driving Maya to childcare, or Luis and his injured knee to class I really enjoy those few minutes of quiet walking at the beginning and end of the day. Here’s a a photo of our little home, and a few photos from that walk.
Some of the 150 steps…
The little bridge at the bottom…
…and into the university.
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