Friday, November 24, 2006
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Sunday, November 05, 2006
The Log of 5 Sofas Go Ballistic in Raro.
Heinzie and Mary and Lana and Wrighties
Were off to the Island to have many parties
Day 1 Take Off
Guess who was the most pissed person at the party?
It seems it only takes minutes to go from cute & funny (annoying sometimes)
to Stunned Mullet.
The day started reasonably well apart from being overweight
(Not us - our luggage)
But get this we can carry the excess onto the plane!!!
Everything went smoothly; Ms Lana, Mr Dale and Ms Gilli were entertained in the Koru Lounge – Champagne – bit of food - onto the plane. Almost last on the plane to Ms Mary’s relief…she was worried she would have nowhere to stay on arrival as all the accommodation data was in Ms Gilli’s head. Problem solved.
Easy entry into Raro. The same wonderful old man playing the ukulele, who must have been doing this for ever...entertaining us while we waited…Henry’s Boy picked us up, delivered us, quick unpacking;
– a round of the special T-Shirts – a quick shot of Raspberry Vodka then off to the Spaghetti House for Pizza. Good it was too. Thin crust, pepperoni had a good kick – Dale had ravioli.
Problem was Mr Stunned Mullet had appeared and eating was a problem for him.
Ms Mary had tortilla which came already prepared from NZ but tasty nevertheless.
Welcoming bed, Mr H has trouble sleeping, he was missing in the early morning but luckily after we had hunted for him, found him tucked up on cushions on the floor behind the couch.Good start.
So far it’s raining but so far we don’t care.
Day 2 Shopping
It’s been a fairly good start to holiday of course as mentioned earlier it’s raining.
The OverActives (OAs) Mr H & Ms L went exploring walking Ms M & Ms G went to our local shop Uncle Moes to top up for brekkie. USELESS shop don’t know why they bother opening, pity, quite close but never mind.
Into the family Sword Courtesy Car. Local superette. Excellent Fresh fresh eggs...
Home for lovely best ever poached fresh eggs and bacon.
The OA’s returned had quick bacon & eggs. Morning spent swimming in the rain –
Ms L & Mr D did wood collecting for our fire in the future.
Here's Mr H with his contribution
Ms M, L and G went off to town to replenish supplies.
Helen Guthrie and Joyce Rae her friend came around for drinks.
Ms Lana whipped up a great pasta. Our visitors stayed for dinner they were entertained with a quick rendition of “The Song… Our Favourite Things”. The guests left and the residents watched Tribute to George Harrison DVD. Sensational, time for bed.
Day 3 Rugby Day
Ms M & Ms G went for gentle walk The OAs explored the inner island, Mr Dale stayed in bed.
Started cloudy but has been beautiful. Big wind though also big sea…spectacular. Very beautiful to watch.
Unfortunately last night due to stupid placing of candles the tablecloth had big globules of wax…but never fear, Ms Mary got on the case with the brown paper and the iron and it worked. Good work Ms M.
Pastis O’clock then good lunch; Ms M's scones, coleslaw, tomato salad & Mr H’s famous coconut chili condiment.
Note the Eis got another outing
So we supplied our sugar rush with icecream – A Sunday drive...as Ms M said…we are turning into our parents, driving around the island, eating icecream for a little treat.
On return watched Les Mis concert excellent and then Justine and Dave brought the little girls around. Quick couple of drinks – dinner and the World’s Fastest Indian. Bed at 10.30 all quite sober – Probably lash out tomorrow night
Day 6 The Lash Out
Day at home the poolman came, the wind had caused havoc with leaves and it really needed a good clean
Yes correct as predicted in this very log…we did lash out.
Mr H made margaritas absolutely excellent, note the umbrellas in our glasses.
We made a roast baby lamb bums dinner
The very cheerful Sofas did several versions of the youtube Favourite things song– trying to get a lead on beats
Not very successful.
The TV went on but some of us didn’t make it. Ms G fell asleep in chair waking to the roosters crowing at the break of dawn.
Day 7 Town Shopping
Not a good look waking with chin on chest but Ms G didn’t experience the usual stiffness in the back maybe sleeping in the chair whilst under the influence is the way to go!!!
The walkers went out in handicap….
The OAs did the usual explore - Ms M & G did the easy version…found nice little café for coffee, the explorers arrived after Ms M & G (does that mean M & G won?) and joined together for coffee
Off to town The TAV Shop got a lucky break. Spent a bit of money there. Went to visit Ms L’s friend Bob Sel. 88 years old passing his twilight years in Raro driving little crippled children in Red Cross Van. A very contented man.
Stopped to look at a lovely little lagoon discovered by Mr H just across fromthe golf course, bit hard to get to though.
As the elder Sofas dawdled back to the car A voice shouted out “Who’s that unruly mob”
It was the 2 male Junior Sofas, setting a bad example by drinking beer and driving.
A date was made for dinner at The Vaimai.
Went to Whatever Bar no-one home...Pity its a great lttle venue.
Unsuccessful in finding somewhere to eat so came home and had excellent plastic white bread sandwiches with left over lamb for lunch. Sunbathing and swimming
Then 4.30 movie session
“Mommie Dearest” time to shower, make up and join the Sofas in Training Katie, Chris, Justine and Dave for dinner at Vaimai.
Originally the older Sofas had booked for 6.30 but after being asked “Are you in the Old Folks Home? Because we certainly are not” changed our time to 7.30!!!
Once again excellent food Ms L & Ms G agree Trader Jacks had the better Ike Mata. Had grilled billfish, there were curries, tuna, not one complaint. Tasty little samosas for befores. Still voted the Vaimai “The Best Restaurant on the Island”.
There was a birthday girl amongst the customers and she shared her cake with everyone. Very kind. The lovely Shannon and her Husband run an excellent ship.
Home, quick glass of wine and here the writer is about to read and nod off. Good night Diary
n.b. The bloody “Favourite things” song is stuck in Ms G’s head…Ms M has “If you said I had a beautiful body would you hold it against me” in hers. What does that all mean???
Day 8 Massage Day again
The lovely Karen came at 10am to make the girls feel great with her magic hands.
The OA’s went off to the Rarotongan to thrash the Junior Sofas at tennis. And they did
Ms G made bread to feed our masseuse and the day rolled on.
Mr Dale has been excellent at keeping the flies at bay. Lots of spraying…close the bedroom doors, of course there are thousands of dead flies. A virtual fly cemetery.
(There are no photos of dead flies...everyone will be pleased to know).
We had booked early dinner at Waterline, this time not for the old folks sakes but for the wee ones Mia, Leila and Yasmine (The Beauties) who can’t wait till late.
Sundowners on the beach and then a superb dinner.
Little Alana child of the hosts played with The Beauties on the beach….they are all so beautiful it’s wonderful to watch.
Waterline has won the “Ike Mata award for excellence”. Chris and Akisi (our hosts along with Danny their son, and cook) are running another good ship. Curries and beautiful fresh fish were the main features of the menu. Akisi is a Fijian and of course the Fijians are Curry Champions.
Danny brought out the guitars and a little beach music was made. How lovely to sit on the beach and have a great time.
n.b. At this stage we haven’t had any sunsets to write home about… this evening’s wasn’t bad it seems the setting sun attract lots of clouds which haven’t got enough gaps in to get a good view or even much colour.(If you know what I mean) Never mind it isn’t the end of the world.
Came home to watch or should I say a mass sleep thru Larry David…looks like we shall have to watch that episode again.
Day 9 Public Holiday and Homemade Fireworks
The OA’s drove to the Rarotongan to thrash the Junior sofas again…in tow were Ms M & Ms G who walked home from there, not as far as would have liked but at least got the corpuscles moving…the Juniors have improved and it is now 1 match each. The presuure will be on for tomorrow.
Mr D stayed in bed.
We have been having really low tides and the locals and Ms Lana have been out spearing or looking for sea life. Octopi very popular they hide under the rocks.
A bit of excitement this morning a boy arrived on a bike went into the sea with his spear…immediately caught something and dragged it out of the water.
Sticky beak Ms G went to have a look. A Stone Fish… what an ugly bugger deadly too.
Apparently it's Good Eats, you boil it get rid of the slimy skin and poisonous spines.
Don’t think it will be on our menu nevertheless.
Our neighbour was on the beach as well, he was the informant, he hadn’t seen one in 30 years. When the OAs returned the little killer was committed to film by Ms Lana
Another local turned up with an Octopus.
The Public holiday was celebrated as a big Gospel Day. The OA’s went to watch and filmed it for the rest of us who lazily lay around the pool.
On their return we went down to the Brunch Café part of the Sunhaven Motel. 
The older Sofas performed the song but we were a bit lacking in backing music, the disc was missing. Turned up in the morning of course, in the CD player. Anyhow somehow sadly I don’t think we are going to be on youtube.
The Juniors picked up The Beauties and wandered home and we settled down for another session of Larry David.
Now a very funny thing happened, Mr Dale decided it was time for bed and he lurched out of the chair and moved with haste with a fabuloys lean on...just skirting the arm of the couch which seated Ms Mary and Mr H and then sidestepped along the back of the couch culminating in a further lurch right over the top of Mr H landing face down in Mr H's lap. A big shock to Mr H.
Dale is going Balls-listic about Heinzie in Raro!!! Excellent.
Oh we saw a whale only just outside of our la goon it dipped and then dove down flicking its large tail how fabulous
Last Full Day Hasn’t Time Flown
A double eat out has been planned. Whatever Bar, lunch and Stephanos for dinner. The time has flown could do with another couple of days BUT let’s not be greedy.
The usual walk for Ms M and Ms G, Mr H and Ms L went off to play tennis, Mr D stayed in bed. The OAs were beaten by the juniors the series is a draw. Very Good.
All decided going out to lunch was stupid as we had lots of food left so sumptuous food was prepared once again. The tennis players Chris and Dave popped in quite conveniently so we were able to ensure there were no left overs.
Last night drinks at Heritage.
Were off to the Island to have many parties
Day 1 Take Off
Guess who was the most pissed person at the party?
It seems it only takes minutes to go from cute & funny (annoying sometimes)
to Stunned Mullet.
The day started reasonably well apart from being overweight
(Not us - our luggage)
But get this we can carry the excess onto the plane!!!
Everything went smoothly; Ms Lana, Mr Dale and Ms Gilli were entertained in the Koru Lounge – Champagne – bit of food - onto the plane. Almost last on the plane to Ms Mary’s relief…she was worried she would have nowhere to stay on arrival as all the accommodation data was in Ms Gilli’s head. Problem solved.
Easy entry into Raro. The same wonderful old man playing the ukulele, who must have been doing this for ever...entertaining us while we waited…Henry’s Boy picked us up, delivered us, quick unpacking;
– a round of the special T-Shirts – a quick shot of Raspberry Vodka then off to the Spaghetti House for Pizza. Good it was too. Thin crust, pepperoni had a good kick – Dale had ravioli.Problem was Mr Stunned Mullet had appeared and eating was a problem for him.
Ms Mary had tortilla which came already prepared from NZ but tasty nevertheless.
Welcoming bed, Mr H has trouble sleeping, he was missing in the early morning but luckily after we had hunted for him, found him tucked up on cushions on the floor behind the couch.Good start.
So far it’s raining but so far we don’t care.
Day 2 Shopping
It’s been a fairly good start to holiday of course as mentioned earlier it’s raining.
The OverActives (OAs) Mr H & Ms L went exploring walking Ms M & Ms G went to our local shop Uncle Moes to top up for brekkie. USELESS shop don’t know why they bother opening, pity, quite close but never mind.
Into the family Sword Courtesy Car. Local superette. Excellent Fresh fresh eggs...
Home for lovely best ever poached fresh eggs and bacon.
The OA’s returned had quick bacon & eggs. Morning spent swimming in the rain –
Ms L & Mr D did wood collecting for our fire in the future.
Here's Mr H with his contribution
Ms M, L and G went off to town to replenish supplies.
Boys a little anxious that our time away was making us late for lunch but we did make it in time to Trader Jacks and not only that we had to wait over 20 minutes for a table. 
Excellent Ike Mata, fab fresh fish, chips Mr H had a cheeseburger,
Excellent Ike Mata, fab fresh fish, chips Mr H had a cheeseburger,
no complaints all round.
Home to rest and sleep. Very quite here at Heritage House except for the bloody roosters and small children whistling – Sound of Surf 10 – Rooster and small child Nil.
Helen Guthrie and Joyce Rae her friend came around for drinks.
Ms Lana whipped up a great pasta. Our visitors stayed for dinner they were entertained with a quick rendition of “The Song… Our Favourite Things”. The guests left and the residents watched Tribute to George Harrison DVD. Sensational, time for bed.
Day 3 Rugby Day
Ms M & Ms G went for gentle walk The OAs explored the inner island, Mr Dale stayed in bed.
Started cloudy but has been beautiful. Big wind though also big sea…spectacular. Very beautiful to watch.
Unfortunately last night due to stupid placing of candles the tablecloth had big globules of wax…but never fear, Ms Mary got on the case with the brown paper and the iron and it worked. Good work Ms M.
Pastis O’clock then good lunch; Ms M's scones, coleslaw, tomato salad & Mr H’s famous coconut chili condiment.
Mr H & Mr Dale decided to open up some coconuts. It wasn't exactly successful...it was a bit frightening as they ineptly chopped at the fruit with the blunt knife
Oooooh
!!!!
Easy afternoon, a quick watch of Spinal Tap and off the Chillies Sports Bar for food and rugby.
Guess what they ran out of pizzas (This is 7pm!!!) We werw starving so we toddled off to Portofino where the very stressed hostess/owner sat us and warned of delay. Pizza finally came, quite tasty, mind you we were very hungry.
(n.b. Mr Dan informed on return that it was like that last year. Warning don’t bother to go there again)
Back to the rapidly now filled up Chillies Bar the ladies decided a nice wine at another bar would be preferable to crummy Australian wine served at Chillies. After a wrong turn we ended up at The Tamarind. Good opportunities for the girls to have a classy drink without having to pay large money for food ordinaire. (This assumption was made at looking at the table below…didn’t look great, may of course have tasted superb. It does have an excellentg reputation.)
In any case we didn’t get a chance to try in the end.
Too many good foods to eat…too few days.
I digress…
Came home, a little Lemoncello roader and off to bed. Good end to day.
Windy still and coolly comfortable – good for sleeping.
Day 4 Market Shopping
Got great fish, herbs tomatoes etc…Ms M & G had lovely chicken satay straight off the grill for breakfast. Bought 5 little flying fish Yum…dinner.
Plus we bought local Ike Mata and fresh bread for lunch. Very nice huge bunches of radishes. Ran into Billy T K up here making new deals.
Had very good coffee in a little espresso bar. So far so good.
It’s a bit cloudy but Dale says it will burn off.
Bought beau
tiful “Eis” pictured below on the heads of the wahines.
!!!!Easy afternoon, a quick watch of Spinal Tap and off the Chillies Sports Bar for food and rugby.
Guess what they ran out of pizzas (This is 7pm!!!) We werw starving so we toddled off to Portofino where the very stressed hostess/owner sat us and warned of delay. Pizza finally came, quite tasty, mind you we were very hungry.
(n.b. Mr Dan informed on return that it was like that last year. Warning don’t bother to go there again)
Back to the rapidly now filled up Chillies Bar the ladies decided a nice wine at another bar would be preferable to crummy Australian wine served at Chillies. After a wrong turn we ended up at The Tamarind. Good opportunities for the girls to have a classy drink without having to pay large money for food ordinaire. (This assumption was made at looking at the table below…didn’t look great, may of course have tasted superb. It does have an excellentg reputation.)
In any case we didn’t get a chance to try in the end.
Too many good foods to eat…too few days.
I digress…
Came home, a little Lemoncello roader and off to bed. Good end to day.
Windy still and coolly comfortable – good for sleeping.
Day 4 Market Shopping
Got great fish, herbs tomatoes etc…Ms M & G had lovely chicken satay straight off the grill for breakfast. Bought 5 little flying fish Yum…dinner.
Plus we bought local Ike Mata and fresh bread for lunch. Very nice huge bunches of radishes. Ran into Billy T K up here making new deals.
Had very good coffee in a little espresso bar. So far so good.
It’s a bit cloudy but Dale says it will burn off.
Bought beau
tiful “Eis” pictured below on the heads of the wahines. Pastis O’clock again
We are really enjoying this aperitif.
A laid back kinda day lovely salad lunch
Easy afternoon Ms L & G had massages from the lovely Karen excellent…She comes to the house.
The OAs played tennis at Edgewater with some show offs but Mr H & Ms L came through.
For dinner we had the fish a little dry, but tasty, “Watch for Bones” was heard frequently.
Mr Heinz cooked a good steak but pièce de resistance was our practice for youtube.com.
We are going to be out there with “Our Favourite Things” Thought it would sensational we would look such dorks. Very funny
Ms G slept thru and the others watched “Inside Man” guess Ms G will have to watch it again at a later date!!!
Day 5 Wineless Lunch a First for Sofas
Risen early again Bloody Roosters…weather seems calm so far
It’s Sunday.
Bit cooler today and laziness is settling in. Ms M & G opted for breakfast rather than walking, Ms Lana shopped for bread (the NZ Vogels finally finished) brought back freshly cooked donuts.
The computer has thrown its toys out of the cot and won’t dial up but the sun did shine and all was well.
We made it to Sails for lunch. Food average and a first for the Sofas,no alcohol till 6pm.
Don't remember that from earlier visit to Raro.
A sample of alcohol free drinks and alcohol free Sofas in the accomapying photos.
We are really enjoying this aperitif.
A laid back kinda day lovely salad lunch
Easy afternoon Ms L & G had massages from the lovely Karen excellent…She comes to the house.
The OAs played tennis at Edgewater with some show offs but Mr H & Ms L came through.
For dinner we had the fish a little dry, but tasty, “Watch for Bones” was heard frequently.
Mr Heinz cooked a good steak but pièce de resistance was our practice for youtube.com.
We are going to be out there with “Our Favourite Things” Thought it would sensational we would look such dorks. Very funny
Ms G slept thru and the others watched “Inside Man” guess Ms G will have to watch it again at a later date!!!
Day 5 Wineless Lunch a First for Sofas
Risen early again Bloody Roosters…weather seems calm so far
It’s Sunday.
Bit cooler today and laziness is settling in. Ms M & G opted for breakfast rather than walking, Ms Lana shopped for bread (the NZ Vogels finally finished) brought back freshly cooked donuts.
The computer has thrown its toys out of the cot and won’t dial up but the sun did shine and all was well.
We made it to Sails for lunch. Food average and a first for the Sofas,no alcohol till 6pm.
Don't remember that from earlier visit to Raro.
A sample of alcohol free drinks and alcohol free Sofas in the accomapying photos.
Note the Eis got another outing
So we supplied our sugar rush with icecream – A Sunday drive...as Ms M said…we are turning into our parents, driving around the island, eating icecream for a little treat.
On return watched Les Mis concert excellent and then Justine and Dave brought the little girls around. Quick couple of drinks – dinner and the World’s Fastest Indian. Bed at 10.30 all quite sober – Probably lash out tomorrow night
Day 6 The Lash Out
Day at home the poolman came, the wind had caused havoc with leaves and it really needed a good clean
Bloody Mary’s O’clock
Ms G made bread for lunch Ms Mary made baked aubergine & Ms L made a fab salad.
She also made some excellent Bloody Marys
Ms G made bread for lunch Ms Mary made baked aubergine & Ms L made a fab salad.
She also made some excellent Bloody Marys
Yes correct as predicted in this very log…we did lash out.
Mr H made margaritas absolutely excellent, note the umbrellas in our glasses.
We made a roast baby lamb bums dinner
The very cheerful Sofas did several versions of the youtube Favourite things song– trying to get a lead on beats
Not very successful.
The TV went on but some of us didn’t make it. Ms G fell asleep in chair waking to the roosters crowing at the break of dawn.
Day 7 Town Shopping
Not a good look waking with chin on chest but Ms G didn’t experience the usual stiffness in the back maybe sleeping in the chair whilst under the influence is the way to go!!!
The walkers went out in handicap….
The OAs did the usual explore - Ms M & G did the easy version…found nice little café for coffee, the explorers arrived after Ms M & G (does that mean M & G won?) and joined together for coffee
Off to town The TAV Shop got a lucky break. Spent a bit of money there. Went to visit Ms L’s friend Bob Sel. 88 years old passing his twilight years in Raro driving little crippled children in Red Cross Van. A very contented man.
Stopped to look at a lovely little lagoon discovered by Mr H just across fromthe golf course, bit hard to get to though.
As the elder Sofas dawdled back to the car A voice shouted out “Who’s that unruly mob”
It was the 2 male Junior Sofas, setting a bad example by drinking beer and driving.
A date was made for dinner at The Vaimai.
Went to Whatever Bar no-one home...Pity its a great lttle venue.
Unsuccessful in finding somewhere to eat so came home and had excellent plastic white bread sandwiches with left over lamb for lunch. Sunbathing and swimming
Then 4.30 movie session
“Mommie Dearest” time to shower, make up and join the Sofas in Training Katie, Chris, Justine and Dave for dinner at Vaimai.
Originally the older Sofas had booked for 6.30 but after being asked “Are you in the Old Folks Home? Because we certainly are not” changed our time to 7.30!!!
Once again excellent food Ms L & Ms G agree Trader Jacks had the better Ike Mata. Had grilled billfish, there were curries, tuna, not one complaint. Tasty little samosas for befores. Still voted the Vaimai “The Best Restaurant on the Island”.
There was a birthday girl amongst the customers and she shared her cake with everyone. Very kind. The lovely Shannon and her Husband run an excellent ship.
Home, quick glass of wine and here the writer is about to read and nod off. Good night Diary
n.b. The bloody “Favourite things” song is stuck in Ms G’s head…Ms M has “If you said I had a beautiful body would you hold it against me” in hers. What does that all mean???
Day 8 Massage Day again
The lovely Karen came at 10am to make the girls feel great with her magic hands.
The OA’s went off to the Rarotongan to thrash the Junior Sofas at tennis. And they did
Ms G made bread to feed our masseuse and the day rolled on.
Mr Dale has been excellent at keeping the flies at bay. Lots of spraying…close the bedroom doors, of course there are thousands of dead flies. A virtual fly cemetery.
(There are no photos of dead flies...everyone will be pleased to know).
We had booked early dinner at Waterline, this time not for the old folks sakes but for the wee ones Mia, Leila and Yasmine (The Beauties) who can’t wait till late.
Sundowners on the beach and then a superb dinner.
Little Alana child of the hosts played with The Beauties on the beach….they are all so beautiful it’s wonderful to watch.
Waterline has won the “Ike Mata award for excellence”. Chris and Akisi (our hosts along with Danny their son, and cook) are running another good ship. Curries and beautiful fresh fish were the main features of the menu. Akisi is a Fijian and of course the Fijians are Curry Champions.
Danny brought out the guitars and a little beach music was made. How lovely to sit on the beach and have a great time.
n.b. At this stage we haven’t had any sunsets to write home about… this evening’s wasn’t bad it seems the setting sun attract lots of clouds which haven’t got enough gaps in to get a good view or even much colour.(If you know what I mean) Never mind it isn’t the end of the world.
Came home to watch or should I say a mass sleep thru Larry David…looks like we shall have to watch that episode again.
Day 9 Public Holiday and Homemade Fireworks
The OA’s drove to the Rarotongan to thrash the Junior sofas again…in tow were Ms M & Ms G who walked home from there, not as far as would have liked but at least got the corpuscles moving…the Juniors have improved and it is now 1 match each. The presuure will be on for tomorrow.
Mr D stayed in bed.
We have been having really low tides and the locals and Ms Lana have been out spearing or looking for sea life. Octopi very popular they hide under the rocks.
A bit of excitement this morning a boy arrived on a bike went into the sea with his spear…immediately caught something and dragged it out of the water.
Sticky beak Ms G went to have a look. A Stone Fish… what an ugly bugger deadly too.
Apparently it's Good Eats, you boil it get rid of the slimy skin and poisonous spines.
Don’t think it will be on our menu nevertheless.
Our neighbour was on the beach as well, he was the informant, he hadn’t seen one in 30 years. When the OAs returned the little killer was committed to film by Ms Lana
Another local turned up with an Octopus.
The Public holiday was celebrated as a big Gospel Day. The OA’s went to watch and filmed it for the rest of us who lazily lay around the pool.On their return we went down to the Brunch Café part of the Sunhaven Motel.
They serve breakfast all day and have a fish special for lunch. 4 Sofas had very nice panfried fish and chips. “Viva La difference” Mr H had corn fritters - mistake…a little ordinaire and not cheap at even half the price. Go with the flow in Raro the fish is excellent. 
This cafe is like Tearooms out of middle NZ. Very clean and tidy you almost expect gingham tablecloths. Would have had wine with lunch but only wine supplied once again the cheap nasty Aussie wine $6 wholesale. $29 restaurant. Best to be dry I think. Luckily we had had Pastis O’Clock. So we weren’t deprived
n.b. Ms L managed to set up a deal with a local for a new Ei. Very pretty too.
Afternoon was spent resting and preparing for the Sofa’s in Training and the Beauties to come for the family tea.
When they arrived of course the Beauties were in the pool like a flash…just loving it.
Ate the remainder of our fab meat from the Neat Meat Company in NZ for dinner,
Scotch Fillet cooked by Mr Chris on the Barbie, lamb bums in the oven –
Ms L made an excellent Asian stir fry with beautiful fresh Boy Choy from a stall on the street.
Some dear old Auntie supplied a lovely Chocolate Cake courtesy of Clem’s Superette.This became Chris’s birthday Cake.
Now the highlight of the night was the ritual lighting of the FIRE.
Mr D with help from Ms L & Mr H had been vigilant in fossecking and foraging wood and coconuts for the fire. It was a spectacular blaze.
Here is the Wedding Arch pre dinner...
Lots of drinks pre and after dinner getting primed for the highlight of the night which was the ritual lighting of the FIRE.
Mr D with help from Ms L & Mr H had been vigilant in fossecking and foraging wood and coconuts for the fire. It was a spectacular blaze.
But the "Fireworks" was the burning of the Wedding Arch, all filmed of course.
There was collective deep breath taken as the flames looked likely to burn the fronds of the coconut tree above. But all was well. A hose was on hand just in case.
Just like Bonfire Night should be…the Beauties loved it as did the Firebugs…
This cafe is like Tearooms out of middle NZ. Very clean and tidy you almost expect gingham tablecloths. Would have had wine with lunch but only wine supplied once again the cheap nasty Aussie wine $6 wholesale. $29 restaurant. Best to be dry I think. Luckily we had had Pastis O’Clock. So we weren’t deprived
n.b. Ms L managed to set up a deal with a local for a new Ei. Very pretty too.
Afternoon was spent resting and preparing for the Sofa’s in Training and the Beauties to come for the family tea.
When they arrived of course the Beauties were in the pool like a flash…just loving it.
Ate the remainder of our fab meat from the Neat Meat Company in NZ for dinner,
Scotch Fillet cooked by Mr Chris on the Barbie, lamb bums in the oven –
Ms L made an excellent Asian stir fry with beautiful fresh Boy Choy from a stall on the street.
Some dear old Auntie supplied a lovely Chocolate Cake courtesy of Clem’s Superette.This became Chris’s birthday Cake.
Now the highlight of the night was the ritual lighting of the FIRE.
Mr D with help from Ms L & Mr H had been vigilant in fossecking and foraging wood and coconuts for the fire. It was a spectacular blaze.
Here is the Wedding Arch pre dinner...
Lots of drinks pre and after dinner getting primed for the highlight of the night which was the ritual lighting of the FIRE.
Mr D with help from Ms L & Mr H had been vigilant in fossecking and foraging wood and coconuts for the fire. It was a spectacular blaze.
But the "Fireworks" was the burning of the Wedding Arch, all filmed of course.
There was collective deep breath taken as the flames looked likely to burn the fronds of the coconut tree above. But all was well. A hose was on hand just in case.
Just like Bonfire Night should be…the Beauties loved it as did the Firebugs…
The older Sofas performed the song but we were a bit lacking in backing music, the disc was missing. Turned up in the morning of course, in the CD player. Anyhow somehow sadly I don’t think we are going to be on youtube.
The Juniors picked up The Beauties and wandered home and we settled down for another session of Larry David.
Now a very funny thing happened, Mr Dale decided it was time for bed and he lurched out of the chair and moved with haste with a fabuloys lean on...just skirting the arm of the couch which seated Ms Mary and Mr H and then sidestepped along the back of the couch culminating in a further lurch right over the top of Mr H landing face down in Mr H's lap. A big shock to Mr H.
Dale is going Balls-listic about Heinzie in Raro!!! Excellent.
Oh we saw a whale only just outside of our la goon it dipped and then dove down flicking its large tail how fabulous
Last Full Day Hasn’t Time Flown
A double eat out has been planned. Whatever Bar, lunch and Stephanos for dinner. The time has flown could do with another couple of days BUT let’s not be greedy.
The usual walk for Ms M and Ms G, Mr H and Ms L went off to play tennis, Mr D stayed in bed. The OAs were beaten by the juniors the series is a draw. Very Good.
All decided going out to lunch was stupid as we had lots of food left so sumptuous food was prepared once again. The tennis players Chris and Dave popped in quite conveniently so we were able to ensure there were no left overs.
Last night drinks at Heritage.
Prior to dinner we drove to the 
Rarotongan and guess what we had the perfect sunset,
Rarotongan and guess what we had the perfect sunset,Stopped the little red car did photography and then we joined the Juniors for a drink and finally “The Song” was filmed.
After a few rehearsals in the afternoon finally we worked out that Mr D should accompany us on the guitar.
Fitting the new verses contributed by Mr D and Ms L are being thwarted by the stupid solo on the backing track. Also it was decided that we would take a verse each and all join in with the last lines and chorus…
Well much better. Chris filmed the fiasco…trouble was Ms G couldn’t read the words without glasses neither could Mr H and Ms L by the time we played pass the glasses laughter had taken over and generally it has been agreed that we may be even too bad for youtube.
Pity.
Off to Stephanos for dinner what a lovely little place, run by a you
ng Italian couple. BYO….good chance to finish off our wine…Not a big menu but no complaints.
After a few rehearsals in the afternoon finally we worked out that Mr D should accompany us on the guitar.
Fitting the new verses contributed by Mr D and Ms L are being thwarted by the stupid solo on the backing track. Also it was decided that we would take a verse each and all join in with the last lines and chorus…
Well much better. Chris filmed the fiasco…trouble was Ms G couldn’t read the words without glasses neither could Mr H and Ms L by the time we played pass the glasses laughter had taken over and generally it has been agreed that we may be even too bad for youtube.
Pity.
Off to Stephanos for dinner what a lovely little place, run by a you
ng Italian couple. BYO….good chance to finish off our wine…Not a big menu but no complaints. Very tasty bruschetta, lots of superb topping. Beautiful homemade pasta, Ms G had fettuccine with tomato based sauce and prawns. Mr H had Spag Bol, The others had ravioli with creamy sauces, very rich...
Sorry Ms Mary had the tomato based sauce and Mr D had funghi in his cream sauce, all pronounced delicious.
The Juniors minus the Beauties joined us and once again we had to have fun.
Justine caused some mirth she covered herself in citronella to stop being bitten…it was a little overpowering this then resulted in the very childish older Sofas singing the dead ant song you know - dead ant dead ant dead ant dead ant etc…(Pink Panther theme)
Arms and legs asunder. I think you had to be there.
On the way home the sofas continued with lots of silly old songs, doesn’t take much to amuse small minds.
Last sleep coming up. It has been great having the Sofas in Training with the Beauties for the last few days. Lots of laughs and most important…tennis partners for the OAs.
Ms Mary and Mr H are off early the others not till after lunch…time for last minute swims and sun.
Last Real Day…Last Bloody Rooster O’Clock!
As predicted The Heinzies left Ms L, Ms G, and Mr D went off to have brekkie at the “Brekkie All Day Long Brunch Café”…wrong, they were closed.
So the remaining Sofas went to Manuia Boutique Hotel. Lovely little restaurant your feet in sand while eating…D & G had sundowners and ate there last time with the Woodses.
Nice little omelets, order a bit stuffed up but tasty.
Filled the Sword Lend a Car with gas only $35 for our whole 10 day stay. A big dinner due for Mr Mal Sword to say thank you.
Home to relax, read, swim, pack. Junior Sofas arrived; they needed a base while waiting to check into their beach house The Capitan’s Retreat.
The Junior Boy Sofas went to get us Take Aways from Whatever...excellent fish burgers. WE may not have made the bar but at least we ate the food.
Katie filmed the remaining Sofas throwing a dead “Ei” in the water to say au revoir to the beautiful Island of Rarotonga. As General MacArthur said “We will return”
Would you believe as soon as the “Ei” landed in the water the tape ran out and rewound.
Last night the most beautiful sunset…now as Chris and Dave and us in the little red car got to the airport just as our plane was coming in. So Ms L got to stand under the plane
The most amazing sight. We hadn’t got around to it in our ten days…meant to be I think.
Easy check in no baggage overweight problem couldn’t say the same for us probably, glad they don’t weigh people coming in and going out, one would never go on holiday.
As it turns out Ms L knew important crew on the plane and we got a lovely bottle of French Champagne. Made up for the abysmal lounge at the airport.
What has happened to Air NZ, ghastly uniforms…they are crap, badly made, the shades of grey to greenish grey, the men’s shirts ,look like they are made of nylon washed too many times. Lunch a crummy foccacio sandwich…a fly cemetery cake (great remainder for the hundreds of dead flies in our Raro beach house)…tasty enough but where is the 3 courses, you know a little salad, little hot meal, dessert and a hard roll with cheese that takes you half an hour to open. At least it filled in at least half and hour of the travel time.
Anyway we had to beg for extra wine but then our lovely purser arrived with real glasses filled with our favourite wines. This was very pleasant. Nice enough plane, the sound not fantastic and watching a movie with your head on your side. Get a good crick in the neck. Thank god it wasn’t a 13 hour flight.
But let’s not let this ruin a perfectly good holiday.
“The Five Sofas May Not Have Gone Completely Ballistic” but they had a fab time.
Sorry Ms Mary had the tomato based sauce and Mr D had funghi in his cream sauce, all pronounced delicious.
The Juniors minus the Beauties joined us and once again we had to have fun.
Justine caused some mirth she covered herself in citronella to stop being bitten…it was a little overpowering this then resulted in the very childish older Sofas singing the dead ant song you know - dead ant dead ant dead ant dead ant etc…(Pink Panther theme)
Arms and legs asunder. I think you had to be there.On the way home the sofas continued with lots of silly old songs, doesn’t take much to amuse small minds.
Last sleep coming up. It has been great having the Sofas in Training with the Beauties for the last few days. Lots of laughs and most important…tennis partners for the OAs.
Ms Mary and Mr H are off early the others not till after lunch…time for last minute swims and sun.
Last Real Day…Last Bloody Rooster O’Clock!
As predicted The Heinzies left Ms L, Ms G, and Mr D went off to have brekkie at the “Brekkie All Day Long Brunch Café”…wrong, they were closed.
So the remaining Sofas went to Manuia Boutique Hotel. Lovely little restaurant your feet in sand while eating…D & G had sundowners and ate there last time with the Woodses.
Nice little omelets, order a bit stuffed up but tasty.
Filled the Sword Lend a Car with gas only $35 for our whole 10 day stay. A big dinner due for Mr Mal Sword to say thank you.
Home to relax, read, swim, pack. Junior Sofas arrived; they needed a base while waiting to check into their beach house The Capitan’s Retreat.
The Junior Boy Sofas went to get us Take Aways from Whatever...excellent fish burgers. WE may not have made the bar but at least we ate the food.
Katie filmed the remaining Sofas throwing a dead “Ei” in the water to say au revoir to the beautiful Island of Rarotonga. As General MacArthur said “We will return”
Would you believe as soon as the “Ei” landed in the water the tape ran out and rewound.
Last night the most beautiful sunset…now as Chris and Dave and us in the little red car got to the airport just as our plane was coming in. So Ms L got to stand under the plane
The most amazing sight. We hadn’t got around to it in our ten days…meant to be I think.
Easy check in no baggage overweight problem couldn’t say the same for us probably, glad they don’t weigh people coming in and going out, one would never go on holiday.
As it turns out Ms L knew important crew on the plane and we got a lovely bottle of French Champagne. Made up for the abysmal lounge at the airport.
What has happened to Air NZ, ghastly uniforms…they are crap, badly made, the shades of grey to greenish grey, the men’s shirts ,look like they are made of nylon washed too many times. Lunch a crummy foccacio sandwich…a fly cemetery cake (great remainder for the hundreds of dead flies in our Raro beach house)…tasty enough but where is the 3 courses, you know a little salad, little hot meal, dessert and a hard roll with cheese that takes you half an hour to open. At least it filled in at least half and hour of the travel time.
Anyway we had to beg for extra wine but then our lovely purser arrived with real glasses filled with our favourite wines. This was very pleasant. Nice enough plane, the sound not fantastic and watching a movie with your head on your side. Get a good crick in the neck. Thank god it wasn’t a 13 hour flight.
But let’s not let this ruin a perfectly good holiday.
“The Five Sofas May Not Have Gone Completely Ballistic” but they had a fab time.
Some Awards need to be handed out:
No 1 Mr H for taking longer than anyone ever to make a tomato sandwich.
No 2 Mr D for getting the most sleep.
No 3 Ms G for reading the most books
No 4 Ms M and Mr H for completing just 1 book each in 10 days
no 5 Ms L for the ability to lie in the sun longer than anyone else.
n.b.It really must be noted Ms M's book was 4 times the size of Mr H
So now to the tune of "My Favourite Things"
Presenting the 5 Sofas in Raro...
No 1 Mr H for taking longer than anyone ever to make a tomato sandwich.
No 2 Mr D for getting the most sleep.
No 3 Ms G for reading the most books
No 4 Ms M and Mr H for completing just 1 book each in 10 days
no 5 Ms L for the ability to lie in the sun longer than anyone else.
n.b.It really must be noted Ms M's book was 4 times the size of Mr H
So now to the tune of "My Favourite Things"
Presenting the 5 Sofas in Raro...
Heinzie and Mary and Lana and Wrighties
Were off to the Island to have many parties
Shots of Tequila then Heinzie will sing
These are a few of our favourite things
White wine and red wine and good friends to drink with
Sunshine and music and good books from wordsmiths
Cooking and eating the world’s greatest food
These are the things that create a good mood
Champagne in glasses whilst perched on our asses
Pate de foie gras and shellfish with sauces
Down by the pool with a drink in our hands
All we need now is a lovely live band
When the wind blows
And the rain falls
And we’re feeling sad
Just simply remember to give us a wine
And then its not alllllll tooo bad.
The nest day we go in our little red car
30ks round the island it’s not very far
We try all the restaurants and also the bars
And on the way home we overtake all the cars.
As dawn is breaking the rooster it crows
He goes all day cause that all he knows
The cat and the mynahs they wait at the door
They plead to Ms Mary who gives them what for.
Its cocktail hour, it must be, its five
Suddenly all the sofas are feeling alive
The evening is young the umbrellas are out
In the cocktails that Heinzie is now bringing out.
When the wind blows
And the rain falls
And we’re feeling sad
Just simply remember to give us a wine
And then its not alllllll tooo bad.
The other extra verses which weren’t published
But here now for posterity.
The pig it is suckling and crosses the road
Ignores all the bikes then all traffic slows
The chickens run after the rooster who crows
I’m King of the Heap and I don’t care who knows
Its cocktail hour, it must be, its five
Suddenly all the sofas are feeling alive
The evening is young, The girls go to the benches
To concoct a new dish they are wonderful wenches
The pig it is suckling and crosses the road
Ignores all the bikes but then everyone knows
The pork when it’s eaten is covered with string
Makes Mr Pig one of their favourite things
Logging off.
Were off to the Island to have many parties
Shots of Tequila then Heinzie will sing
These are a few of our favourite things
White wine and red wine and good friends to drink with
Sunshine and music and good books from wordsmiths
Cooking and eating the world’s greatest food
These are the things that create a good mood
Champagne in glasses whilst perched on our asses
Pate de foie gras and shellfish with sauces
Down by the pool with a drink in our hands
All we need now is a lovely live band
When the wind blows
And the rain falls
And we’re feeling sad
Just simply remember to give us a wine
And then its not alllllll tooo bad.
The nest day we go in our little red car
30ks round the island it’s not very far
We try all the restaurants and also the bars
And on the way home we overtake all the cars.
As dawn is breaking the rooster it crows
He goes all day cause that all he knows
The cat and the mynahs they wait at the door
They plead to Ms Mary who gives them what for.
Its cocktail hour, it must be, its five
Suddenly all the sofas are feeling alive
The evening is young the umbrellas are out
In the cocktails that Heinzie is now bringing out.
When the wind blows
And the rain falls
And we’re feeling sad
Just simply remember to give us a wine
And then its not alllllll tooo bad.
The other extra verses which weren’t published
But here now for posterity.
The pig it is suckling and crosses the road
Ignores all the bikes then all traffic slows
The chickens run after the rooster who crows
I’m King of the Heap and I don’t care who knows
Its cocktail hour, it must be, its five
Suddenly all the sofas are feeling alive
The evening is young, The girls go to the benches
To concoct a new dish they are wonderful wenches
The pig it is suckling and crosses the road
Ignores all the bikes but then everyone knows
The pork when it’s eaten is covered with string
Makes Mr Pig one of their favourite things
Logging off.
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