Annie was sensational! Congratulations to all those involved. This production was initially scheduled for September this year, so to continue to plan in uncertain times, keep the actors and participants engaged to perform for the show, and organise the logistics is an incredible feat.

All of the Junior School was abuzz with butterflies and excited to be on stage. Many girls are just as excited to be able to watch themselves at home as many families are using the opportunity to view the show as a time to gather with whānau and friends. Stacey Goldsworthy needs to be specially mentioned as she has spent many hours organising and ensuring that all of the Junior School has had this fantastic opportunity. A very special congratulations to Harriet Gough, who made the Junior School very proud with her performance. Harriet was a star in our eyes!

Harriet is also currently on the “big screen” in “The Swamp- a Sacred Place”, by Kathleen Gallagher, a Christchurch producer. The movie tracks the thoughts of those involved in restoring the wetlands of New Zealand. People from all walks of life, from DOC scientists, Council engineers, farmers, Maori, and volunteers, talk about their part in restoring the wetland. Wetlands around the world absorb 30% of the world's carbon. It just so happened that part of the movie was shot at the Godwit farewell that some of the last year's Year 3 girls attended. Part of the godwit sequence shows Harriet Gough painting her wooden godwit. The movie is part of the New Zealand Film Festival.

There will be many Grandparents and Special Friends receiving special mail deliveries to their letterboxes in the form of our Grandparent and Special Friends postcards. In reading these as I was preparing to send them, the feelings of love and warmth translated into words and pictures were genuine and heartfelt. I know that these will be received, treasured and appreciated for many years. We tend to forget the feelings evoked when we receive mail in a letterbox and not an inbox. With Christmas coming, it is a timely reminder, just how much joy one gets from a thoughtful act. 

Enjoy this long weekend with a mixed bag of weather! If you are travelling away this weekend, please return to us safely.