Overview
Wed. Jan. 1.
Dull day but good for picnicking as not too hot. Cycled the 9 miles to Muhunoa Bridge & as the Herds had not arrived, stripped & had a cooler in the river. They arrived about 10.30 & settled down on edge of bush just below bridge. Maud, Olive & I went for a walk – across bridge, up the road and along edge of high cliff which borders river just below the bridge. Lovely view – took it easy & chatted. Back to camping place & had lunch – took photo of party lunching. Also two of Mr Herd fishing with rod & line & one of Maud arrayed in fishing gear – she looked sweet. After lunch Maud & I took it easy while the rest scattered about collecting ferns, etc. At 2pm Will, Alice, Gerty, john, Hugh & I bathed in a fine pool, ¼ mile below bridge. Will took a photo of myself in bathing suit & Maud another of us bathing – she also took some with the little ¼ plate camera I lent her. Little Gerty is a very plucky bather – diving etc in great style: she has a charming figure for so young a girl. I returned to top of high cliff & took a general view of river, bridge & party on river-bed. The rest of my own family, with several visitors, picnicked higher up the river & did not come near the Herds. We had afternoon tea & then rain commenced so we left for home. I was able to borrow an overcoat from Mr Herd (Maud got it for me) so reached home in good condition. Wet night. Read ‘The Heather Moon’ by CN. & AM. Williamson.