Relief but expense as kids go back to school

Sarah and Martin.

Hear that? It's the collective sigh of relief from parents all over the Bay as the children finally head back to school after their summer break. For many, it's the start of a new school adventure.

Sarah's stepson is embarking on his first year at Hastings Intermediate while Martin has two boys returning to Napier Boys' High and his daughter is about to face her first year at Napier Girls' High.

Martin is feeling decidedly old now that all three of his children are at high school. His wallet is also feeling a little on the light side after buying his youngest, Paris, her brand new school uniform, plus everyone's massive stationery lists.

When it comes to buying stationery, Martin is usually like a kid in a candy store but that's when he's buying for himself. Sticking to a list isn't much fun!

The cost would be enough to make his hair fall out if he hadn't already lost most of it years ago.

How fortunate for the children that they only have to struggle through a couple of days and then are blessed with a long weekend. It may be a bit of a shock to them when they enter the workforce and realise that you don't get summers off!

The search continues this week to find our promo girl Hena love (or perhaps just similar ... ) for Valentine's Day. We've had great fun over the past week finding out more about this lovely lady - and who better to let us know what she's really like than her Mum?

Lyn dished all the dirt on her darling daughter, such as her worst trait (taking an hour to get ready for anything), what kind of temperament she has (typical Taurus). Apparently, Hena can be cool, calm and collected but at other times is like a bull at a gate and very stubborn!).

Lyn also let us know that it's important for Hena to find someone with reasonably good looks as she has to look at him, too! Some of Hawke's Bay's finest bachelors have already registered for a date with Hena and we appreciate the honesty of their entries.

For example, the guy who said, "I would like to someday take her to a movie of MY choice rather than a chick flick."

This Friday we will be selecting three lucky guys to have a date with this hottie so if you're keen and haven't registered yet, head to www.thehits.co.nz/win/hawkes-bay/head-over-heels-for-hena/