Term 1 ...Freya turns 5!

Dear all,

Term 1 and we've been pretty busy. Gareth with his new responsibilities at work plus playing rugby for Taumarunui Eels. Me doing sporty stuff and picking up some work. The girls being looked after by various friends. And of course Freya' s 5th birthday and 1st day at school.

Ga got his first Rugby run out in over a year playing No.10 in a 15 a-side tournament, the Eels won and Gareth got player of the day! And to think he was going to hang up his boots! Ga also organised a mixed 7-a-side team for a football tournament which I also played in over the last 8 weeks, we were runners -up and won a cash prize!

I organised a team of 14 to compete in a ' Round the Lake (Taupo) Challenge' All who took part did an awesome job, completing 155km in less than 16 hrs. Gareth and I also took part in the local multi-endurance event...The Kururau Krusher. He did the kayak leg for a mens team(22km) and I did the mountain bike leg(26km) for a girls team. I have also begun my 'Netfit' course and am due to complete a 4 day fitness instructor course soon.

Freya has finished Pre-School and onto the next chapter in her life with her 1st day at school going well despite it also being my 1st day teaching there! Her party was held at the High School gym with 18 friends!

Merryn is saying "Dadda" and "mamma", clapping her hands and waving. She is V. sociable and even when she is out and about without me has lots of people recognise, say Hi! and give her cuddles! She is sleeping well and has 2 teeth.

Gareth wishes to congratulate all fellow Welshmen on the Grand Slam and to say to supporters of the English that Brian Ashton is a great coach and you should stick with him.

Pat a farmer who Gareth coaches the 1st 15 with had Ian Botham staying at his farm last week, apparently He often Visits to go Fly-Fishing, as does Billy Conelly. I am doing some training with Paul Tito's ( 2nd row for Cardiff Blues)sister Abbey at the mo. As her boyfriend also plays for the Eels.

Enjoy the photos.

Love Sarah, Gareth, Freya and Merrynxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx