By crickey, it will soon be Christmas! As I write this, it certainly feels like summer - we have had a stunning weekend.

Firstly, as a bit of a foodie, I have to tell you all to go and see the movie "Julie & Julia" with Meryl Streep. I went to a preview with 'the other Tart' Fiona and we both absolutely loved it - every single minute of it. It is a 'rush to see'. I have just finished reading The Time Traveller' Wife ... it took me three attempts to get into, but it was worth persevering as I ended up really enjoying it. Friends have said that the movie is rubbish, so I'll give that a miss.

We had a lovely surprise over Labour weekend, as Hamish managed to get a few days off work and came up from the South Island for four days. It was so good to see him and he will be back again over Christmas. Thank goodness for Jetstar and their cheap airfares.

Both Kirsty and Gracie are studying for exams at the moment. Kirsty will be finished hers by the end of this week - she is disgusted that it is her birthday tomorrow and she has her least favourite exam in the afternoon and then another one the next day! She will have to delay any idea of celebration until they are all over! Gracie has recently found out that she has won a Future Leaders scholarship for Lincoln University - we are all so delighted about this and very proud of her. We have just booked our flights to take her down to Christchurch in February - our baby leaving home.

The Two Tarts are in full swing again and have a very busy couple of months ahead. Our menu this series is particularly delicious and is going down a treat with our class participants. Don't forget that an evening with The Two Tarts and a night in The Lofthouse makes the perfect 'girly' treat for you and your friends.

Colin and I are looking forward to a busy summer with The Lofthouse as well, so take care everyone and we hope to see you soon.

"I am extraordinarily patient, as long as I get my own way in the end".