After four weeks away we arrived home and have spent the last couple of weeks settling back into life at Kainui Road.

We have had a great time away and been spoilt along the way. People we met wanted to know about us and where we’re from. They marvel at how far we had to travel from New Zealand and want to know our story.

Italy is a generous country and we have experienced many acts of kindness along the way. Hotels we know have upgraded our rooms and restaurants and bars have given us extra treats along the way. Even on our last night we sat at an outside bar in Piazza Barberini drinking local chardonnay and Peroni beer. When it came time to order another chardonnay they had run out and were so embarrassed that a plate of pizza appeared on our table to say sorry. It was the best pizza we have eaten on this trip – but completely unnecessary.

Catching up with our friends is such a treat and it’s always hard to leave. We miss them terribly. Great meals and great times we will always remember. We returned home with bottles of wine, something liqueur and olive oil, all gifts from friends.

The girls were at the Dog Bach Kennels while we were away and apart from a couple of trips to the vet for upset tummies, have been in good health. The team there are excellent and we can’t recommend them highly enough.

The Dog Bach posts photos of their charges regularly and I’ve included a few with this post. Being able to see them while we’re away means so much. When we picked them up they largely ignored us (as they do) but when they got home they were excited to rediscover the house and garden – lots of zooming and a little bit of peeing.

Although it is the end of holiday Jean reminds me often that these days my life is just one big holiday anyway.