I'm in Nelson for a quick weekend visit, catching up with friends before I go away. It is stunningly beautiful here today. Snow down quite low on the hills and a clear blue sky - fabulous. What isn't so fabulous is that yesterday I got a little parcel from the French embassy - my passport and paperwork returned with a letter saying that I have to apply in person and there is a 2 - 3 month waiting list! Tiffany from Alexandra had the same thing, and I guess Anna, who is also going for a year, did too. Unbelievable! We are due to fly out in just over 2 weeks....
