This morning we learn that Uncle P has tested positive for Covid. Pretty much the entire Auckland based part of the family was with him last night as we were celebrating his 80th birthday at a party hosted by K and H. Luckily for us, as the weather was good, we spent much of the evening outside and Susannah and I did not sit with Uncle P at dinner. Fingers crossed we’ll be ok. Poor Uncle P though – that’s a crappy birthday present! There were about 25 people there. I wonder who else will become sick. 

Susannah and I have planned to go camping at Uretiti today but after our late night last night we decide on a go-slow approach to our holiday. The aim of the day is simply to arrive at camp, no rush, no fuss. We putter around slowly and don’t depart until mid-afternoon. On the way we decide to buy DOC annual passes. We love going to Uretiti and with the passes our stays there will now be free, as well as giving us free access to all the other DOC camp sites. This should encourage us to get out camping even more.  

At Uretiti we find an excellent spot near a beach access point and set up. By now it’s so hot that my whole skull is dripping with sweat. We decide to go swimming. I wear my bathing suit with a rash shirt over top to protect my irradiated skin from the sun. The rash shirt also helps to hide the loose, flappy part of my swimsuit where my left boob should be. I still feel a bit conspicuous with my lack of hair but the beach is practically empty so I just think fuck it, I don’t care. People see what they want to see. The tide is out and the water is very cold to get in. I am surprised that the salt water does not sting my skin – the cold water actually feels lovely on my radiation burns.  

Once cooled we go back to camp to relax – our mini pre-Christmas holiday has started.