I've just come back from an overnight stay in the capitol city, Wellington. As I was away a little less than 24 hours, Gemma stayed home alone. She was left with dry food, wet food, fresh water, and a nice clean litter box. As she tends to snooze most of the day, I was sure she would be fine. Although maybe her pussy cat brain would wonder where I was at bedtime? My blue overnight case was packed, and I was ready to go.
All packed for an overnight trip
The coach collected me outside the village, with the next stop being Coastlands Mall for lunch. Previously, I would have gone to my favourite Butlers Chocolate Cafe, but this chain of shops has now been closed, so I made do with an ordinary cafe instead. I felt a bit rushed in making my choice as there was a long queue behind me, so missed the fact that there was nice hot soup on offer. Never mind, I made do with a coffee and cake. Next time I'll take my time to read the board properly. After lunch I was taking a photo of the coach, and the driver offered to take one for me.
On the way to a big night out
Our hotel overlooked Oriental Bay, which is named after the ship "Oriental" which arrived in Wellington in 1840. It was a cool day, with a light breeze, and there was an hour or so to settle down and relax. The sun was streaming in the windows.
My room for the night
The view out the window
Dinner for the evening was at the very busy Dragons Restaurant. Our coach group was seated at tables for 10, and the food just kept coming, it really was delicious. Then it was just a short walk to St James Theatre in Courtney Place.
We walked to St James Theatre
St James Theatre was built in 1912, and is full of wonderful decorations. However, it fell into decline and was very nearly demolished when the owners placed a destruction order on the site. In 1993 Wellington Council purchased the property and handed it over to St James Theatre Charitable Trust, and restorations began.
Inside St James Theatre
The show started with a hiss and a roar and continued non stop throughout the evening. Song after well known song was belted out and had the audience clapping along. It was very enjoyable and at the end of the show, the whole cast came back on stage and performed an extra rendition of several of the favourite songs. It was a great evening, full of energy and feel good entertainment. But I must admit I was feeling a little upset during the show. Even though I enjoyed the music, I thought to myself, what am I doing here, surrounded by all these strangers, when I really want nothing more than to have Robin by my side, sharing this experience with me. Alas, it is not to be. We boarded the coach for the short drive back to the hotel. and I'm sure we all retired with the words of Abba running around our heads.
View from my hotel window at night.
After a reasonable night's sleep, I woke early, made a cuppa to take back to bed, then caught up with the news of the day. Then it was time to shower, dress, and head down to the hotel restaurant for breakfast. Mmm, I decided on pancakes, yoghurt and fruit, washed down with orange juice and coffee.
Sunday breakfast
With the bags loaded in the coach, and all the passengers on board, we headed north. The coach dropped me back at the village, turned around, then continued on the journey. It certainly was a great experience. Gemma barely stirred when I opened the door. She was tucked up in her tower and went back to sleep, finally getting up, stretching, and coming to greet me after an hour. Perhaps she didn't miss me at all!
Oh, you've come back, have you.
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