we climb to the top of a steep grassy hill and stop to catch our breath
looking back across the rolling green farmland, black cows dot the landscape

two energetic 7-month old German Shepherd puppies chase each other in great big circles around the flat green paddock

branches of ancient plum tree laden with ripe red plums
I pick one and sink my teeth into its succulent flesh

dull headache, limbs like lead, a scratchy throat
my body calls out for rest

my hamstring complains with a loud ache
holding me back as I stretch forward in janu sirsasana

thick fruity berry smoothie cold as ice
slips down my throat

salty flavours of roasted vegetables combine with feta cheese in a crusty pastry:
lunch at the Waipu cafe provides a savoury stop on our journey home