Being nimble while writing....

Well, my intent was to blog more regularly after my return from Sri Lanka. However, that has not proven to be because the ebb and flow of LIFE have determined otherwise. I am learning to be at peace with that ebb and flow.

The value in doing so has me heading back to the Hokianga in October to spend a week in the area where fathers maternal ascendents lived. So my writing has been replaced by planning for this trip and communication with Phoebe Watkins who lives in Rangi Point, Hokianga. I look forward to meeting her in person. She has been very active on my behalf of which I am most grateful.

We first met through a letter Phoebie wrote to my father back in August 2001- on behalf of her parents. Father then included her letters in one he wrote to me that same year. When I commenced this manuscript in early 2018 I thought I wonder if I could get hold of Phoebie? I reached out and was able to locate her through Ngaire Slade also living in Perth.

Sometime later I was able to locate Phoebie who lives at Rangi Point in the Hokianga. As they say, the rest is history! When I emailed niece Kiri recently about my pending trip back to the Hokianga she came back with a saying I have not heard for many years. You are picking up the breadcrumbs Aunty.

Nieces:  Piki - Myself - Kiri attending the 2016 Indigenous International Research Conference hosted by
Nga Pae Ote Maramatanga - Auckland University N.Z. 

This trip was not anticipated at the commencement of writing, early 2018. However, a journey eagerly anticipated and the opportunity to meet people I have been in contact with is such a bonus. Sometimes we have to listen to our inner thoughts and allow them to bloom. I am very aware that this trip will enrich not only the manuscript but my understanding of my father's maternal ascendants and meeting Whanau that have emerged.

Take care in the interim
Viti