The days between - what the New Zealand team gets up to

Monday 4 December

The past two weeks have been very intensive and today was the first real opportunity for us to have a complete rest. Many of us still undertook a light fitness session eg run, weights, stretch but the remainder of the day was spent relaxing, shopping for items for our progressive dinner and taking in some of the cricket between India and England.

The progressive dinner was a complete laugh. Firstly we were required to bring a hideous outfit along for another member of the team to wear - poor Mike (coach) and Warren (trainer) were in trouble as a couple of stunning numbers were produced. Most of the clothing was from the 60's, 70's and whilst I escaped quite lightly with a ridiculous pair of culottes and foul shirt Emily and Rollsy would of won the "Best" or "Least" (in Emily's case) dressed. Rollsy was stunning in a gold frock, knee high gold boots and a blonde beehive wig!

Then of course there was the food. Each pavilion was assigned responsibility for starters, mains or dessert. Pavilion One had a complete shocker, with the starters from the catering company not arriving at all!

Pavilion 2 was in outstanding form (naturally I am a member of this Pavilion) with a choice of fresh pastas, sauces, salads and foccacia bread - magnificent.

Dessert was always going to be interesting with Helen Watson taking on a Leadership role in Pavilion 3 - we were not to be disappointed. A huge box eg 15 litres, of goody goody gum drop ice cream along with a selection of other treats was layed on - very nice indeed!

Obviously we don't eat this sort of thing every day, but on this occasion we indulged just a little and then proceeded to "march" it off as Cate our manager, a former Marching girl, walked us through some simple marching manoeuvres - now this was funny to watch!!!!

Finally tonight before I finish up, I do want to say a very special hello to Birgit and the Viguurs family in Holland. I know you are following the World Cup with interest and it was great to receive your email.

Doei

Mo