Melanoma

Cancer is a frightening word, here in New Zealand melanoma is becoming so common that this diagnosis is often dismissed as not being serious. Caught early and removed a melanoma is not fraught with other similar diagnoses but if not leads to other cancers and slow painful death. I had a melanoma removed 16 days ago. Yesterday I had the stitches out, all 12, leaving a long scar. Expected further surgery was deemed unnecessary but now I am on a lifelong watch full of suncreams, sunhats and moisturisers. My relief after the visit to the specialist was palpable - I was unaware how scared I had been.

Reading It Rains in February   is very difficult. Depths of love and despair are invoked in single words and the desperation with which Leila attempts to keep her depressed and suicidal husband alive. South Africa seems a place where health issues go unresolved despite the momentous changes of the last 30 years. Links can be broken so easily but the tearing of these links provides life long pain and stress. Admiration for the author's frankness is mixed with anger at her inability to obtain help and her husband's refusal to accept it. What will her children think as they read the book, one assumes the eldest who is now 13 or 14 may have already done so. Could this add further harm to a difficult and painful journey?


My neighbour has lent me her German cookery book, it is fabulous! I love German food but have never attempted to cook it. Culinaria Germany is rich with illustration, full of ideas and I would imagine is the ultimate guide to food from all regions of this exciting country. I love their outdoor cafes, food on the run, ciders and most important, Apfel Strudel - my first destination on arriving in Europe - a cafe with good quality strudel with warm vanilla sauce prepared with care and love.

I have also been dipping into a book of blogging hints. While some of the ideas are beyond me I hope to attempt others. Time will tell. I return to work next week and will ask for advice from the resident blogger about upmarketing and easy ways to make this blog more attractive to others.

Later today I party - Jay and Chocolat will love it as all the neighbours are coming for drinks and nibbles. Their anticipation at crumbs and lost crackers will keep their minds occupied all day.