CJ's

a picture of words...

2011-11-13T13:42:00.003+13:00

Someone asked me how long I'd had my blog for when I was out last night.

The person in question had just started one themselves and has been reveling in it all.... which was a feeling I could relate to......

I can't believe that this all started in 2004.

2 0 0 4!!!

I can't even begin to talk about how much life has changed since then.

I can remember quite clearly the challenge that was set out for me to begin the blog in the first place and I wonder if it has served its purpose?

For me, I would say yes. Add to that that I've actually made friends from on here and it gets even better. I just tried to archive my blog so that I could carry it around with me, as it really does mean that much to me now, regardless of how neglected it has become.

So the next question put to me yesterday was I guess a new challenge.

Would I start writing here again - or would I start a new blog somewhere new? I feel the need to write, and while I've always kept a journal - for some reason I enjoy this as a medium. There is certainly a part of me that's just itching to get creative once more. Even my camera has been hidden away for too long.

For now I just wanted to thank all those who have humbled me with comments, stopped by and made a difference in my world.

You are all such marvelous individuals whose words have meant more than I suspect most of you would know.

You are appreciated.

A long time....

2011-04-01T16:19:00.002+13:00

It's been an incredibly long time since I was here.....

Thinking back to when it all began, and the reason for it, I guess I've changed and so has the reason for having this place of mine.

So - what now?

It's a totally different season. A new place. A new home. A new job. A new me?

Yes... there is always a time and place for everything.

So - perhaps it's time to start this thing again?

Maybe.

beginnings

2010-08-21T15:12:00.003+12:00

I had a wonderful holiday with one of my best friends and then got to spend a week with my brother and sister in law.

Talk about so spoiled and blessed. I'd spent almost two months searching for a job, sending out so many applications and hearing very little back. I'd had a few interviews, but certainly nothing to get excited about. Of course, I never doubt that we learn from these experiences, but I'd reached a point where I just need to be around some people who loved me for me and I didn't have to try and explain who I was any more.

So, while it did kind of feel irresponsible to do it - it was something that I desperately needed to - so I went on a road trip with a couple of friends who just happened to be heading that way.... it was wonderful to see them too, and was pretty much the only way we would have caught up. :)

To top it off, the trip was timed with two birthdays - so honestly, it was just meant to be! I think really, as much for me as for the girls. :) God does manage to orchestrate things so beautifully.

So - after two weeks of R&R I arrived back here to job interviews. In fact, this week has been exhausting, but so great! I've never worked so hard for an interview before. The recruitment agent that I've been working with for one of the jobs has been an absolute gem and I've learnt so much.

Amazingly all the jobs are in the electrical industry - and each one different from the other.

I had to laugh.

So - word at the end of the week.... I'm through to the next interview for two of the jobs, which is exciting. But I won't get really excited until I have a job offer in front of me. Praying that it happens next week!!! Although around here, nothing seems to happen quickly. But I'm sure hopeful!

Then I can excited about what happens next.... like finding somewhere to live and getting a car. :) That's an experience all on its own. he he.

Yes - I'm being pruned in a big way, and in the end the fruit will make it all worth while.

Yipeeeee!!

WOHOOOO!!!

2010-07-06T16:05:00.004+12:00

I passed both my papers - so hopefully that means I've actually graduated! :)

Yeah - crazy and hard to get my head around.

On that note.... I'm feeling most deserving of a holiday and some R&R to celebrate, so I'm going AWOL for a while.

Bags are packed, tickets booked..... watch out world!

Where to from here.... who knows.

It's a big wide world and there's a whole lot to see.

Yes - feels totally insane, but exciting at the same time.

the crazy things...

2010-06-18T08:20:00.002+12:00

So, the last assignment has been sent off with prayers being whispered on the wind that I've passed and graduation is just around the corner.

Exciting!

The last couple of weeks have left me feeling beyond overwhelmed; with school work, work, packing and family.

The house has sold - and that all goes through at the end of the month. Absolutely fantastic and exciting...... which also means big things for me.

Maybe some sleep?

For now, I'm catching up on the little things. Getting the bills paid. The washing done. The coffee drunk and a few photos taken.

Life carries on, regardless of how we're feeling and where we are.

And knowing I'm held in the palm of His hand does much to sooth my soul.

over coffee.....

2010-05-02T10:40:00.005+12:00

Tobias checking out the Bantams.... in his laid back way. I think they were far more interested in him than he was in them. I kept waiting for "Tiger", the new rooster to come inside. (named after mr woods because of his 'affection' for the girls.

coming to the end.....

2010-04-26T17:01:00.004+12:00

Should I be excited, scared, anxious?

I've got 4 weeks left of my university course and then, all going well I graduate with my teaching degree.

It's only taken me 10 years. WOW!

Yes, worth a few fireworks! :)

I am scared...... scared of failing, which is something I know we all have to deal with at different times.

For me this has been a huge stumbling block in my life. I think when I gave it all up, I'd figured I couldn't do it - not because I couldn't. Yes, there have been some tough moments - but it's doable, but more because I was scared.

I've realised lately while I've had so many other things going on in my life that I'm one of those people who doesn't get scared often - but when I do it has an almost paralyzing effect on me. I freak and become incapable of making a decision or just move on. It's the most bizarre thing for me to realise and have to deal with - because I've never really been a person who gets scared of much.

Staying at home by myself has never worried me. Swimming out in the ocean doesn't frighten me, I happen to love the dark, will happily drive across country by myself.

I've come across many people who actually don't like doing some of those things and I've often struggled to understand that kind of fear.

So, here I am. A new season approaching. Some massive changes, and I refuse to get scared.

Watch out world, here I come!

Tui in action...

2010-03-20T11:03:00.002+13:00

We had some old family friends from Canada here last weekend. They're actually on their way down here again today, which will be very cool. This time I get to see a girl that I grew up with, but whom I haven't seen since I was 9.

A bit freaky. he he.

We used to spend every Easter at their farm in Edmonton till we moved over here.

Anyway.... We took Tui for a spin last weekend. Was great fun, and she went so well. She's hardly acting her age. Turns 25 in May.

Time to let go......

2010-03-17T08:03:00.002+13:00

The house is on the market.

It feels like the right thing to do now, and yet I'm sad at the idea of letting go. The blood, sweat and tears that went into that place.

Still, a new season and time for big changes. Hopefully the house will sell quickly, and there won't be any more dramas with tenants who aren't paying rent. he he.

More character and more growing.

New Plymouth

2010-03-13T21:47:00.004+13:00

I was down in New Plymouth back in January for a friends baby Baptism.... a great weekend catching up with friends. Think that's the last time I'll be down there for a very long time, though I get a regular phone call asking me when I'm going to come down. he he.

I'm trying to be staunch and tell people that if they want to catch up with me, they really need to come here. I just can't do as much as I try to do - and the weekends away, while being wonderful adventures just can't happen now.

I can appreciate that there is only one of me and often many o

f "them", but I've always been the one to do the traveling. Now, now I need the time to go into the studies.

Boring, huh.

Darling, Nifty and I went for a walk down the waterfront while I was down there to check out some stone carvings that had been done. Some of them were brilliant!

my boy....

2010-03-10T22:14:00.004+13:00

Tredway Aritocrat..... known as Jesse James.

He's such a funny boy. Dad's got his two stallions that he deals with, and I've got Jess. We bonded when he first arrived, and now.... he doesn't really like dealing with anyone else. I mean he's never bad - but he follows me around his paddock, and comes running when I call, neighs out to me - even when he sees my truck. Who wouldn't fall in love with a rebel like that?

inside my head.....

2010-03-09T22:58:00.002+13:00

Autumn is nearly upon us here on the other side of the world......

With it comes the noise from calves being weaned, leaves falling and pages from large books being scribbled upon.

Yes, University has begun once more..... with a very full on couple of terms ahead of me before it's all over once and for all. I'll come out of this game with a jumble of letters to go behind my name, which will mean that I'm now more able and eligible to teach a room full of young children than I was previously.

There's a small problem with that idea. I have no intention of teaching small children.

So, why the need to finish the degree that I started 10 years ago?

It's been hanging there, and I couldn't seem to move on before this was finished.

So, come July it will all be over. The work I've got to get through in the next 10 weeks is HUGE, but I know I can do it. Not only that, but that I will do it!

After that the next adventure begins.....

Sadly till then I'm not a nice person to be around while I try to do it all... and do it well.

Bare with me world while I stumble along.

Poppa and Israel

2010-03-04T21:25:00.003+13:00

Israel went for his first tractor ride with Poppa last weekend. He's become a super cheerful little guy who is a tad obsessed with balls and anything that could possibly be used as a ball. Super funny.

The cousins....

2010-03-01T08:24:00.001+13:00

hope and love.....

2010-03-01T08:16:00.002+13:00

Another wedding this month.

Yes, it would seem all of the cousins are getting married off, with just 3 of us left now. It would seem that it's my family who is letting down the side. he he. Strangely it's my older cousin, Jeremy and I who are a mere 3 months apart in age and my youngest brother who are left in the lot.

How do I feel about this?

While all of my family are marrying off and beginning families of their own every Christmas I somehow feel more left out of this happy little circle.

I realise that's not the case, but emotionally, it does feel somewhat alienating. Irrational?

Thank goodness I get to be a work in progress as I figure things out and grow up.

Greetings. . .

2010-01-19T10:22:00.001+13:00

Back in the land of reception. It's been kind of airy not being in contact with anyone via cell or email. Figure it can all wait till i'm back. That, and it's physically impossible. He he. Reality does hit when i get back to work though. What a sweet holiday it's been. Gonna soak up the rays and the peace. X

Need i say more?

2010-01-15T12:29:00.001+13:00

One of my favourite stores in Napier.

East cape light house.

2010-01-13T15:37:00.001+13:00

755 steps to reach the top. Gorgeous view from walk up and at the top. The lighthouse was originally on an island, but earthquakes had caused so many landslides they had to move it mainland. Would have loved a swim after the climb, but lots to see and do today!

Ah, another beach.

2010-01-13T09:00:00.001+13:00

It rained a lot last night, but woke to find the most gorgeous day. Blue sky for miles. Now just need to find coffee to complete the feel good morning. God is good all the time.

Ah, coffee. . . .

2010-01-12T12:29:00.001+13:00

Another coffee in the next town we've come to while driving around the coast. Suspect this will be the end of cell reception again. Ah, the joys of being in holiday mode. Till we meet again, crazy material world. Be well, friends.

The road trip.

2010-01-11T14:37:00.001+13:00

Traveling around the coast with my friend Gavin. Was desperate for some time away. Of course way more interesting when traveling with a goof. :)

Happy New Year....

2010-01-01T10:43:00.002+13:00

We've made it.... another year!

We found ourselves looking after Mandy's grandchildren - a littler of 5, who are adorable! This is the runt of the bunch. A small girl - though according to the vet, she only looks like a runt because the others are all HUGE. :)

It's been fun having them, especially now that they've all opened their eyes and have just begun to move around - almost a walk.

Mandy knows that something is going on out in the garage, and would love to go and check them out - but we'll leave it for a few more days I think. They've just reached 21 days old now.

Now we're just waiting for foal number 4 to be born.

Welcome to the zoo.

new years eve....

2009-12-31T19:05:00.003+13:00

There have been so many adventures this year..... overseas and here in NZ.

I feel incredibly blessed.

And yet - I'm praying that next year will be more.

I sat down by a lake today and pondered what it was I wanted to work on for the year 2010.

I know that I need to work on being gracious and merciful, but I was also thinking that I really did want to live a life of reckless abondonment.

I don't mean that I want to live a life not thinking about what it is I do - but I would like to stop over-thinking the things that I do do.

Those thoughts that we have where we feel totally alive and know deep down that this is something we have to do - that we were born to do. Designed to do.

I want to jump more than think.

I want to live and breathe the life that I was meant to live.

To give when I'm not feeling gracious.

To laugh when I hurt.

To smile at strangers.

To look on the brighter side.

To share all that I have with those around me.

And.... to look adventure in the eye and say YES!!!

Small things?

Merry Christmas...

2009-12-24T21:49:00.005+13:00

Here I sit, Christmas Eve in New Zealand......

The Christmas music is playing in the background while I sip on Christmas tea, and all I wish right now is that it would snow!

After all these years it still feels incredibly wrong to be summer and Christmas. However, I am pleased that being in New Zealand does mean that I'll get to spend tomorrow with family and friends for more fun and madness than you could imagine. I'll even get the opportunity to defend my golf title that Tamati and I won last year.

It's been an interesting year for me, with quite a few big changes. The house I'd been doing up in Morrinsville has been finished and is now rented out and I'm back at the farm with mum, dad and Alex who moved back up from Christchurch a few months ago.

The farm is absolutely gorgeous and I do feel spoiled to have the space, animals and ideal location for adventures. At the moment we have 3 foals, 5 puppies and a number of chicks running around. All are amazing time wasters, though I find I'm often running around in any spare time I have.

I decided to try and fit in some university papers during the second half of the year, which was supposed to happen after I'd moved to the farm, but coincided badly with the move. I managed to get everything done and just found out the other day that I've passed both which means I have just two more papers to complete. Hopefully they'll be done by the middle of next year.

While studying I also managed to fit in a trip to Australia with my friend Jiljane. We met in Adelaide and drove from there through the Barossa Valley to Sydney. I had an amazing time learning more about wine and exploring some stunning countryside. I would love to get back there again sometime to see more of the wineries and of course try more of the wines.

There was also a trip to Rarotonga for my brother; David's wedding in May. It was an absolutely gorgeous ceremony and one of the most intimate and sweet receptions I've been to. We actually each gave a little speech which was quite special. While I didn't cope well with the climate, and was desperate enough to even try and return early - Raro is a stunning place to visit. It certainly cemented the fact that I'm a cooler climate girl!

Dave and Sara are now living in Victoria BC, Canada (Sara arrived there today!!) And I suspect they may be there for a few years?

After years of not traveling overseas at all - I managed to fit in two trips to lands unknown and find that the feet are more itchy than ever. We'll see where I end up next year.....

I hope this finds you well and that you've done more than just survive another year.

For now, have a wonderful, blessed Christmas and all the best for the year ahead.

Much love,

CJ xxx

beginning to look a lot like Christmas....

2009-12-18T15:44:00.003+13:00

~
It is that time of year once more.....

The Christmas tree is up, and there are presents underneath all ready to be torn apart on the day, and I've been baking like a wild thing.

Most of my clients have received their gingerbread men, though I will need to do another baking stint this weekend to get it all finished.

This time of year seems to be more chaotic than typical, and I have to remind myself the reason for the season - which is NOT to stress yourself out and get all wound up about what you haven't done.

Before I know it - the new year will be here.....

For now, I hope I can catch my breath and enjoy the season ahead.

Hope you all do as well!

Be blessed.

goodness.....

2009-10-30T14:31:00.006+13:00

Again.... another month.

Whew.

I can't believe my trip to Australia was already over a month ago now. While I say that.... so much has happened since then.

My camera broke while I was in Oz, which caused some heart flutters. Th

ankfully I've just got it back from the repair agent, which is super exciting. :) Of course, over a month without a camera is quite something.

To celebrate I bought a macbook pro. Actually, I need to start calling it an investment into ME.

I've just scored the job of wedding photographer at my second wedding which is in December, and since I moved and sold my old PC, all I had was my work laptop, which really wasn't got to cut it for editing photos.

In breezed the beautiful mac.

I've hardly had a chance to sit down and play with it, so still getting my head around things. But so far, so good.

To celebrate - the photos are of Theo who came out to keep me company while I got a horse ready for a show the other night.

Theo and Rhapsody..... sharing the love.

Darling Harbour, Sydney.

2009-09-19T21:07:00.000+12:00

I spent the afternoon wandering around the city. A tad overwhelming for the limited time i have. Now time to find a train and then pack. The suitcase is going to be a mission. :) at the airport at 6.30am. Wohoo.

The Barossa Valley

2009-09-17T00:20:00.001+12:00

Had am amazing time tasting and have learnt so much about the different areas, people who settled here and the wines. It's been brilliant. I've got a silly sore throat so just Praying that will go away quickly. We get into new south wales tomorrow. Only 3 more days of driving. X

Welcome to the Barossa Valley

2009-09-15T20:38:00.001+12:00

The first day of the wine tour today around the most amazingly beautiful vineyards. The weather was perfect and the wine and people that we met were so interesting. Tomorrow more driving and the next stop.

Welcome to the Barossa Valley

2009-09-15T20:35:00.001+12:00

Adelaide

2009-09-13T14:23:00.001+12:00

Walking down the main mall and there are there bronze pigs. This one is oliver, getting into the trash. Very cute. It's a stunning day. Must say that finding a coffee on a sunday morning is no easy feat. We're all coffee and good to go.

Melbourne airport

2009-09-12T19:01:00.001+12:00

Sitting in the lounge waiting for my next flight to adelaide. Feels good to be somewhere different, but can't wait to get to the next destination and play tourist. To breathe. :) will try to post some ppp's as i go. The first an oz emblem. Qantas plane.

Sarah and Michael's Big Day

2009-09-11T08:55:00.001+12:00

Sarah and Michael's Big Day

2009-09-11T08:44:00.001+12:00

Erin with her latte

2009-09-05T11:33:00.001+12:00

Beautiful sunny day in Hamilton with Erin having brunch at Jacks. :) the joys ofthe weekend. This time next saturday I'll be sitting in the airport waiting for my flight to Australia. Yipee!

memory lane.....

2009-09-03T08:51:00.002+12:00

Gosh...... flicking through some old photos and this one takes me down memory lane.

It's taken at Yosemite - in Tuolumne Meadows. Actually, this would have been the night of the bear I think?
10 years ago.

How time zooms by.

Who was I back then, compared to who I am now.

I'd like to think I've aged graciously. That I've learnt from my past experiences, and grown into a better version of myself. But then we are ever learning and ever growing. At least that's the plan.
Imagine if our growth became stilted, and we stopped striving to become more Christ like.

Actually.... I'm sure we all have moments like that in our life..... where we feel like we're in the dark, struggling to see and figure out what direction to go in.
It's almost like we're a seed in the gestation period..... if we would just keep looking up, soaking up the nutrients all around us, we'd grow towards the sun.

All just musings and mutterings as spring springs around me......

Life is good!

xx

Yipeeeeeee

2009-09-02T09:45:00.003+12:00

~
The wedding was an absolute blast, and I just feel so honoured to have been allowed to capture the day. In fact, I'm still feeling quite overwhelmed by it all.

Now the task of getting the photos all sorted out lies ahead of me.

Minor detail in the great scheme of things. I took all the photos as RAW images, which means I have 700+ photos that are averaging 5MB each. That's great, from a photographer's point of view..... but what I didn't give much thought to was the fact that my computer is just not capable of dealing with it all.

Quite funny really........

Thankfully the bride and groom have run away for the week, and I can deal with it in a turtle like manner, as well as get two assignments finished.

There are some gorgeous shots amongst them all, and I think I managed to capture the joy of the day. Hopefully they like them too.

So, wedding TICK
Assignments half done
House carpet goes in today
Holiday is a mere 1 and 1/2 weeks away.... wohoooooo!!

God.... good all the time.

the weekend looms...

2009-08-26T16:31:00.002+12:00

~
I've got my first gig as "wedding photographer" this weekend. (official wedding photographer that is!)

WOHOOOO!!

Of course nerves are starting to kick in, but I'm excited too.
I've been pouring over photographer's sites online checking out different ideas. I'm not sure that much has stuck...... and I have to keep reminding myself that actually I can do this. The more I try, the harder I make it, the worse the photos.

It's funny - having been to so many weddings, having been in so many wedding parties, I know how it goes, and yet I can't seem to just let go and trust myself.

It's going to be fun!!

So, hopefully I'll have some photos to post of the happy couple on Monday.

Me!

2009-08-26T16:11:00.001+12:00

The day, it goes.

perhaps.....

2009-08-25T08:11:00.007+12:00

I was listening to an interview with the lead singer of a "Christian" band the other day.

At the same time I'm reading "Velvet Elvis" by Rob Bell.

The part that I'd just finished reading was about how we like to label everything. What makes a band "Christian"? Should we attempt to label?

Just some questions....

But what I found more interesting was what this guy was saying in his interview. He was talking about being a Christian, and how this influenced his music.

Instead of talking about the music, he talked about how we as Christians were the biggest hypocrites. How we somehow mistook the role of "Christian" to mean that we had to portray ourselves as perfect. When in fact we should be out there showing the world that we're imperfect, but we have God's grace and mercy.

We should be the first to say Wops, made a mistake there..... sorry.

We shouldn't put so much pressure on the people who are in the spotlight. They too are human, infallible? I don't think so.

Anyway... all jumbled thoughts right now. But that struck a chord with me. I don't want to be one of those people who walks around "Hollier than thou", I want to be real with people - which I guess means showing my weaknesses. Showing I am human.

I hope I do that anyway.... but it's certainly something to think about.

It Just Takes One......

2009-08-25T08:11:00.005+12:00

Years back the band Casting Crowns came out with a song about being the Body of Christ. For me, this song kind of takes it to a new level.
It just takes one to make a difference.... I think so often we underestimate the power of one person, one action, one moment.......

Just wanted to share.

It Just Takes One - Addison Road

What if we moved
What if we wandered
Took a reckless ride to the other side
of the tracks

What if we knew somebody's story
Would we write them off like a number
on a check

Or could we be the only souls
Who take the time to love and find
The beauty in a nameless face

(Chorus)
It just takes one
It just takes one
To step out from the crowd,and show
what love is all about
One,it takes one
To change a life forever,touch the
world and make it better

So what if we moved with no
hesitations
And learn to love the least of these
without reserve
Let's spark a change in this generation
And let our actions speak louder than
our words

And what if there's a world in need
of hope
That only we can bring
Brighter then the midday sun

CHORUS

Cathedral Cove

2009-08-19T09:49:00.002+12:00

boat by moonlight in Rarotonga

2009-08-18T10:01:00.001+12:00

backwards to go forwards.....

2009-08-17T12:23:00.003+12:00

I need to learn to let go.

I have the funny feeling that I must be one of the worst people at this little exercise.
It doesn't matter how unhealthy I know it to be, I'll still cling for dear life.

And I do mean CLING.

I don't let people in easily, which in turn means I find it incredibly difficult to let someone go who has made it in. Even when I know it's for the best.

It feels like such a year of lessons for me, and most of them are hurting quite a bit right now.

I know that the sooner I deal with them, the sooner I'll be ready to move on to the big exciting stuff.... the stuff I'm just dying to get my teeth stuck into. :)

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

~ James 1:2-4

breathe

2009-08-16T12:49:00.004+12:00

Breathe ~ Taylor Swift feat. Colbie Caillat

I see your face in my mind as I drive away
'Cause none of us thought it was gonna end that way
People are people and sometimes we change our minds
But it's killing me to see you go after all this time

Mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm
Mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm, mmm

Music starts playin' like the end of a sad movie
It's the kinda ending you don't really wanna see
'Cause it's tragedy and it'll only bring you down
Now I don't know what to be without you around

And we know it's never simple, never easy
Never a clean break, no one here to save me
You're the only thing I know like the back of my hand

And I can't breathe
Without you, but I have to
Breathe
Without you, but I have to

Never wanted this, never want to see you hurt
Every little bump in the road I tried to swerve
People are people and sometimes it doesn't work out
Nothing we say is gonna save us from the fall out

And we know it's never simple, never easy
Never a clean break, no one here to save me
You're the only thing I know like the back of my hand

And I can't breathe
Without you, but I have to
Breathe
Without you, but I have to

It's two a.m., feelin' like I just lost a friend
Hope you know it's not easy, easy for me
It's two a.m., feelin' like I just lost a friend
Hope you know this ain't easy, easy for me

And we know it's never simple, never easy
Never a clean break, no one here to save me, oh

I can't breathe
Without you, but I have to
Breathe
Without you, but I have to
Breathe
Without you, but I have to

I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry
I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry

winding path

2009-07-18T08:43:00.004+12:00

I thought the photo suited the mood today.

I was thinking about destinations..... how we get to where we want to be.

For me I'm always driving. For work, for adventures with friends, for family......
I'm always in my car, and typically I take the most direct route to get to where I need to be. (Not always, as half the fun of these adventures is seeing everything along the way - but it's by choice.... except when I'm super lost!)

If only it were that easy with life.

To jump into some kind of machine that will put us on the path to where we want to go. Instead, I find myself weaving and winding down lots of different paths. Should I go through that door? Would that path be easier? Will the stones hurt my feet if I go that way?
And then half way down one path things get more and more difficult, and the idea of turning around appeals. Or maybe there is a fork in the road? There are always decisions to be made about where you're going and how you're going to get there.

I've had to sit down and write lists of what I want to happen this year. Everything on the list is something that I think will help me to get to where I want to go.
I'm not silly enough to think that I'll get everything done, or that it won't be difficult, but I want to make a start.

With my faith I'm always trusting that when I get on the wrong path that I'll stumble across a dead end or a massive STOP sign. Something will push me to change directions, to re-think my plans. I'm also always reminded that my problems are never too big for God to deal with.

In the photo you can see the road winding its way down the hill, and it looks so small. The cars are miniature in comparison to their surrounding - and yet we all know how big a car can look - especially when they're zooming towards you.
So I'm reminded that all the big deals and hard times are like these cars. They really are small when you look at them from a different perspective.
My mustard seed of faith is enough to make a mountain move when I speak in the authority that I've been given. So problems? What problems? (To have that kind of faith. woah!)

Sooooooooo....... I'm traveling down the road..... the road to finish my teaching degree, and I'm making some moves so that if my door opens this time next year, I can jump on a plane to head somewhere else.
Doors may slam..... but for now, the roads seem straight, and I'm cruising to some sounds...... remembering that nothing is too big for He who loves me and has created me for a purpose greater than my wildest dreams.

Life is really sooooooooooooooooooooo good. If I just remember to look from a different perspective, to remind myself, I know I'll be ok.

slightly overwhelmed

2009-07-16T16:06:00.003+12:00

I think I've managed to work myself into a tizz.

Part of it is that I do have a huge amount going on for the rest of the year.....
and part of it is there are things swimming around in my head and heart that I'm not doing such a great job of dealing with.

I know that God will never give me more than I can handle... I just wish he'd also show me how to handle the situations.

Superglue?

So, right now.... as my work day is about to end, there is a gorgeous blue sky day waiting for me and I wish I were able to just float away above it all.

Ride the on the zephyr, breathing in deeply, and letting out a massive sigh with everything else that's tangled up inside.

Life.......

Crazy days!!

2009-07-14T21:41:00.005+12:00

The Scooter in Rarotonga..... The absolute best way to get around the Island. Probably the only way to feel a breeze too. he he.

It was my favourite place to be.... exploring the island. Of course getting absolutely soaked riding it to the wedding just made it that much more of an adventure. :)

If I lived in a city... I think I may even be tempted to get one. (Yes, I want to be just like my brother when I grow up. )

so it begins....

2009-07-13T20:08:00.002+12:00

My kitchen wall.......

A mass of cards, most notes from friends.... photos.... invites... and colour.....
When I do up the kitchen I'd like to actually make that wall a great big magnetic space. :)

For now.... I have to pack it all up, and wonder when it will all see the light of day again.

Packing in faith and in anticipation of this next GREAT season!

sign of the times...

2009-07-13T12:49:00.003+12:00

STOP!

I want to get off!!

If I could just have one tiny weekend to myself to do the things that I need to get done, that would be wonderful.....

Thanks.

xxxx

*we'll be returning to your normal programming in just a few moments*

Surprise!!!

2009-07-12T19:55:00.004+12:00

It was Tamati's birthday last week... and Tess had organised a surprise party for him....

I was asked to organise a date night for Tam and I... it had been a while, so figured it would be quite easy to convince him of some mischief with me. Of course I didn't really give the night a great deal of thought.... I just knew that I would pick him up, and then I'd get him home around 7:30 for him to be surprised.
Lack of details there.... but I managed quite well.

We went and looked for my new ute that I'm apparently getting next week, with no real joy and then went to look at computers. I'm about to start studying again, and my poor old beast just isn't up to the job. he he. That, and I really won't have room for it either. I'm trying to look at the whole big picture right now... as far as getting a computer for school as well as for my photography and other things I'm getting busy with.
So.... dreaming of an apple. We're becoming a Mac family..... we'll see.

So... from the store we went for a drink and massive plate of curly fries. It was nice to just sit and chat about what's been going on with us. It had been a long time since we've just had time to natter away.

Of course from there I had problems....
"Lets go bowling?"
"Lets check out movies?"

And I could see him getting a little testy as I struggled to come up with excuses. It did kind of help that I've been sick all week with a chest infection.... so in the end I suggested we go grab some ice cream and go watch a dvd at him place.
He bought it.... and so eventually we made it home.

Got into the house and he opened the living room door to everyone screaming.
It was a beautiful moment. He was honestly totally clueless!!!

Tessa and I couldn't believe we'd actually managed to pull it all off without him catching on.
Tamati is always the one getting everyone else - so it was about time we managed to pull one on him.

Great job, and tons of fun!! And he totally deserved it all. Next weekend we're heading up to Auckland for a day at the adventure park... bring on the rollercoasters. :)

a little raw

2009-07-09T09:07:00.004+12:00

I was at a woman's conference on Saturday.

A great day with a room full of woman of all ages, stories being shared along with tears being shed. As one lady got up, she said - I don't know about you guys, but my bra is soaking wet.

What a thing to say and yet I could relate.

5 days later and I'm still a little raw from the things that were revealed to me. Actually, little may be a slight understatement.

And so, the things which have hurt need to be dealt with.

To top it all off, I'm now sick in bed with a chest infection.
I have to get out of this house and quite possibly this country. he he.

I've been reminded of my days working at the boarding school.... my passion for young girls. It all kind of ties together with what's been going on in my heart, and also the whole idea of going back to study.
I'm going to finally finish my teaching degree...

And I'm excited about it. A little confused as to why I'd get excited about something I don't actually want to do?! But maybe it's what I need to get back into a boarding school situation. While I don't want to be a teacher... I would love to be in a place like that again.

Which ties in with a few other things....

It's an interesting road.... interesting thoughts.....

For now... I just need to keep dealing with the raw stuff and get better.

Hope everyone else is feeling a little stretched. A little pruned. Alive!

"You make everything glorious and I am yours..... what does that make me?"
~ David Crowder.

not so easy

2009-07-08T10:15:00.003+12:00

He he... not sure what I was thinking.....

Moving is never an easy thing to do.

I'll get there eventually... for now I thought I'd put up some photos that have been waiting.

going AWOL.....

2009-07-06T21:33:00.002+12:00

Again....

I'm in the process of packing up - not only my house, which really hasn't started to happen yet, but also this site.

Yes, all sorts of crazy things are going on here.

The biggest change though, is one of heart.

It's just too late and unfortunately, I'm feeling a bit sick, so I really wouldn't be able to do any of the story justice.

Instead..... a song.....

I've been singing it for the last 3 days, and would love someone else to be humming the same tune.

Living Rain

It's by one of the biggest NZ worship bands.

Really praying that everyone is doing well. I hope to sit down and catch up over coffee with you all soon.

This has been another thought running through my head lately:

"Go into the world and preach the gospel, and if you must, use words."

Wouldn't that be a beautiful world to live in.

xxxx

The big wedding....

2009-05-25T22:51:00.000+12:00

Dave and Sara tying the knot in Rarotonga May 8th, 2009.

Was a beautiful ceremony right on the beach. Stunning!!

can't sleep....

2009-04-14T23:12:00.003+12:00

I've been tossing and turning.

My head is full of questions.... un-answerable ones, but that doesn't stop me from throwing them around in the dark.

Unfortunately none of them have stuck to the walls, or ceiling and they land right back where they came from. To continue the swim through whatever else has happened today.

Maybe they'll end up stuck to some question from a client about the amp rating required to run a specific motor? Or maybe to the the flight schedule I was trying to sort out tonight for the trip to Rarotonga for my brothers wedding.

I have plenty of things that I actually need to spend time and effort on - but instead the questions which keep me awake are the ones I can do absolutely nothing about. The one's that will probably be left un-answered, that we are left to let go of, or be dragged down by the weight.

How long will I carry them?

Perhaps it could all be compared to sin? We choose whether we carry it around, or ask for forgiveness. Most of the time we carry it, with our guilt thinking this is what we deserve. How could God forgive us when we do such terrible things?

But Easter is all about how that was changed. One man changed it all and he would have done it JUST FOR YOU.

By holding onto the sin and by believing that we deserve to carry it around with us, we're choosing to not believe that God did come to take it all away from us. To wash us whiter than snow.

So - we either believe in God. Believe that we are forgiven. Or, we believe that it's better to carry it around - there by dis-honering God and the amazing act/gift that was given to each of us.

I'm choosing God, and accepting what I don't deserve, but what he freely gives to me.

Life.

Lifehouse - Broken

2009-04-14T23:05:00.004+12:00

Broken

The broken clock is a comfort, it helps me sleep tonight
Maybe it can stop tomorrow from stealing all my time
I am here still waiting though i still have my doubts
I am damaged at best, like you've already figured out

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain, there is healing
In your name I find meaning
So I'm holdin' on, I'm holdin' on, I'm holdin' on
I'm barely holdin' on to you

The broken locks were a warning you got inside my head
I tried my best to be guarded, I'm an open book instead
I still see your reflection inside of my eyes
That are looking for a purpose, they're still looking for life

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
with a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain (in the pain), is there healing
In your name (in your name) I find meaning
So I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'), I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'), I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin')
I'm barely holdin' on to you

I'm hangin' on another day
Just to see what you throw my way
And I'm hanging on to the words you say
You said that I will be OK

The broken lights on the freeway left me here alone
I may have lost my way now, haven't forgotten my way home

I'm falling apart, I'm barely breathing
with a broken heart that's still beating
In the pain(In the pain) there is healing
In your name I find meaning
So I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'), I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'), I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'),
I'm barely holdin' on to you

I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'), I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'), I'm holdin' on (I'm still holdin'),
I'm barely holdin' on to you

They used this song in the Easter production I saw while I was down in Christchurch. I've always liked it - the whole concept of holding on to Christ. Right now, it feels a bit like an anthem for each day. Just holdin' on. If that's all I can do, it's enough.

broken...

2009-04-14T15:39:00.004+12:00

Does anyone have a quick remedy for a broken heart?

Is there such a thing?

A quick fix?

Will super glue work?
An antiseptic cream?
A soothing balm?

A hug would probably do wonders about now.

I'd like to be gracious through the hurt..... but honestly..... uhg.

I know that being tired is partly to blame right now. My allergies are kicking in again - so it's time to change the medication. 6 months seems to be the max that I can stay on any one drug before I get used to it and it stops working.
Mum is doing well, though I tend to worry about her too much.
There is the stress of the job and house.....

And the ever persistent question of... What am I still doing here?

I had hoped that this would be a better year, but so far, I feel battered and bruised.
I know I'm not alone..... but right now, its feels like the bottom has dropped out from under me.

I'll be diving into the bible tonight looking for some soothing words to carry me through this one. I suspect that David may understand how I'm feeling right now.

I actually picked up a Beth Moore study book - "Living Free" about praying God's word. Think I'll get into that after a trip to the gym.

Any suggestions are always appreciated. :)

xx

The weekend....

2009-04-14T13:53:00.005+12:00

Wow...
What a weekend.

Emotionally, incredibly draining. Perhaps even that is an understatement? I feel like the littlest thing may just leave me in a heap on the floor.

Last year my birthday fell on Easter Sunday - which was amazing! And Jiljane came up to spend it with me. So, only fair that I should fly down to Christchurch to spend Easter with her this year.

I flew down on Good Friday night and left very early on Monday morning.

I don't like making tons of plans when I go away, but do try to have some loose plans with friends that I need to catch up with. I'd organised with most to have dinner on Saturday night, and to have brunch up on the hill that morning. Other than that.... it was a matter of trying to fit everyone in.

Flying in I was amazed at the feeling of coming home. Why did I leave again?
It didn't help that the weather was perfect. The sun shone all weekend, and while it got cooler one night - it really wasn't any worse than up here. The mountains were majestic, the trees a wonderful array of autumn colours, and everything felt crisp and ready for change.

Perhaps that feeling got into my bones?

Change........

Most of my friends down there are pregnant. Waddling around with their big tummies. Quite funny. It's funny how this has changed one particular relationship. Most of the friends I've only known while they've been married - and so our friendship developed around that.
Jacx and I are different.

We both arrived in Christchurch the same week. She from South Africa, and I from San Francisco. This is when God moved in a HUGE way.
We met through a family friend that I was staying with, actually at an auction. he he. We were both looking for beds, although neither of us got one. I did end up buying her a bedside table though. :)
After looking at a hopeless number of houses to move into, God put me into the house on the hill - which was just up the road from her. We quickly became friends.
I'd like to think that she needed me as much as I needed her.
We'd both walk up and down the hill to see each other. I was studying, and became involved in the church with her. While I was going through heartache, it was an amazing time of God growth.
There was Bible school, being part of the praise and worship team, challenged to be a leader... awesome times.

The next year she came back from South Africa, and I was a tutor at a private girls school, and as God would have it - another position opened up for Jacx. We lived in huge old houses which backed onto eachothers back yards.... so we'd pop through a fence to catch up.

The year after this.... I guess God thought we had been here long enough to build up other relationships. :) She moved across town and I moved a couple of blocks from the school into a house with 2 other girls and a guy. 1 of those girls was Danica - in fact, it was her parents house, the other was my friend Jackie... so God was in total control there.
Peter pumpkin and I still keep in touch from time to time as well.
But the relationship that I have with Danica and Jackie is pretty precious....

Anyway.... when Jacx got married (3rd stint as bridesmaid... there's a photo way back somewhere on here) things did change. I guess God knew that would happen - and he moved them 2 blocks away from me! We would have our chick flick dates, and the bond was solid.

Now.... things have changed again. I started this year off by writing her several letters spilling out my heart, and while we will always be close - it does feel like she's crossing into this new phase of her life without me.

I didn't get to spend enough time with her over the weekend - which was partly my fault - but I think I did it to protect myself as well. I don't want to really acknowledge the change.
I think I'll have to write her another letter this week.

I know that there are seasons.... and reasons for things to change..... but I'm not enjoying it.

And at the same time there are just so many other decisions which have to be made. A plan to be formed. I don't feel like I know which of the paths in front of me is the God given one.

I trust that He'll keep slaming doors on me when I choose the wrong one, but I'd quite like to find the right one and continue running the race.
The last few months have felt like way more of a roundabout than a path.

And I may be getting dizzy.

If you've managed to get to the end of this... could you please pray for me. That I wouldn't base my decisions on where my family is at, and learn to trust my heart.

I'm trusting that the desires of my heart are not going to be wasted, and that all the passions I have will be given a chance to grow and be used.
I just need to know where and when to jump.

Be blessed, friends. And really praying that your Easter has been a time of reflection at what has been given. LIFE.

Tons of aroha.
xxxx

* I'm really loving the photo with the black background. Think I may have to get this one framed to put on the wall. :) Actually - think it may have to be for someone else. My walls are filling up. he he.

flight home....

2009-04-14T12:13:00.006+12:00

I flew out at 7am, so had the early morning colours. Was a great flight - with some stunning scenery.

Story time..

2009-04-14T12:04:00.002+12:00

Evie reading me a bedtime story....
So cute, and great reader too!!

The Easter Cake

2009-04-14T11:51:00.004+12:00

This gorgeous creation was our dessert on Saturday night with the photo of the decorators above..... we all brought curry and stuffed ourselves. It was lovely. Hilarious conversation - but no game was played. I need to go down again!!!

the hills are alive with the sound...............

2009-04-14T11:38:00.003+12:00

The view from Jiljanes house. I could quite happily sit outside and watch the ever changing picture - especially at sunrise and set. My first year in Christchurch, I lived a little further over on the hill so I had a view of the sea and the alps. It was amazing! I could lie in bed and watch the sun come out of the ocean in the morning, and then set over the alps.
Gordie and I joke about finding another house up there. Not the most perfect of houses, but he still declares I was the best flatmate ever. :) He wasn't bad either... even brought me flowers for cooking him dinner... was quite the deal.

Christchurch - Botanical Gardens

2009-04-14T11:14:00.002+12:00

The Peacock Fountain - only, there are no peacocks on the fountain, and would
you believe the fishy looking creatures are supposed to be dolphins. Very creepy looking dolphins.

silly

2009-04-14T11:09:00.002+12:00

OK.... we were in Hagley park, enjoying the sunshine - and I thought I would try to get a photo of the three of us. Total silliness - but have to post it!

Jiljane, Jacx and myself.

Christchurch - JJ and CJ

2009-04-14T10:53:00.004+12:00

Jiljane and I standing outside CUP. Managed to stop giggling long enough for this shot. :)

This is where I used to go every Saturday morning when I was living down there. If I'd had the week away, all my friends knew they could come and catch up with me there. The view is AMAZING!
It's been sold twice since I left, and is now a tad too commercial for my liking. In fact, if I still lived there I'm sad to say I would have to find another Saturday morning hide out.

Christchurch - Catherine and Kids

2009-04-14T10:48:00.002+12:00

I met Catherine back when I was working at briscoes.... ahhh, the days. She has since become a wonderful and ever wise friend.
It was great to see her and the kids. Gorgeous!

Christchurch - Andy

2009-04-14T10:42:00.003+12:00

Andy and I.... catching up at CUP on the hill. Candice was off at a rehearsal, so I was thrilled that Andy came anyway. We were up there for about 3 hours, and talked about way too much girly stuff for him. But it allowed him to put off building the new wood shed. :)

up, up and away.....

2009-03-29T19:25:00.002+13:00

It was the balloon fiesta this week..... and for another year I wasn't part of the festivities, which breaks my heart.

Ballooning is still the only thing I jump out of bed for at 5, eagerly.

Why do I let these things which I consider a passion, and yet I manage to let them slide on by.
It's sad and a waste.

So - how do I make life fit around the things which make me smile, grin, laugh out loud and better than that - mixing with the people who have a bounce in their step!!

I need more of that.

balloooooooons......

2009-03-29T19:21:00.003+13:00

balloooooooons......

2009-03-29T19:16:00.000+13:00

balloooooooons......

2009-03-29T19:10:00.003+13:00

Tessa

2009-03-21T16:42:00.003+13:00

I can't take any credit for this great shot. Katie Woo woo took it on my camera while we were playing the "Final" game in our Christmas golf tournament.
It was hilarious with so many balls ending up in the garden.

And yes, that is Israel that Tessa has firmly attached to her.

tiki tour

2009-03-09T08:19:00.002+13:00

Alas.... while I took the picture the swing was empty - but as I walked over to enjoy it, some kids arrived and were quick to jump on.

I thought it looked like the most blissful place to spend some time.

shots

2009-03-08T15:30:00.000+13:00

very early this morning...

2009-03-08T15:28:00.003+13:00

What a day!

I went and met up with a friend from High School who I haven't seen since '92. I know.... how many years is that?! Thanks to the wonder of facebook we've been back in touch. She mentioned that they were going for a balloon ride for their 10th anniversary, so I asked if I could come and take photos. :)

It was gorgeous!!

I haven't been around a balloon in so long. How I miss it!
The pilot even rocognised me, which was a bit bizarre. Very good memory.

So, I snapped away, and hopefully she is happy with what I managed to grab.
It was all in an effort to begin my road into portrait photography, and just capturing the moment. We'll see where this journey leads me.

Fun stuff though!

It's March

2009-03-03T17:45:00.000+13:00

How did this happen????

more soon. :)

LOVE YOU GUYS, bunches.

one of those moments...

2009-02-13T10:03:00.004+13:00

Crawling into a hole....

hiding in a huge empty room....

Underneath the stairs in a rickety old house....

All things I could do right now.

Things keep happening. Things that make me think for a moment that maybe I could stay. Maybe I could settle. Maybe I could even be happy.

But it's like the moment the thought enters my head that something else happens which causes me to double take and shake my head in dis-belief.

The conclusion.... can't be a God thing, right.

When the path is supposed to be straight out before me, I keep twisting and turning, tying myself up in complicated knots.

What if the wool were to just unravel, and I were to sit here and let it unwind from around my swollen ankles?

What would happen then?

signs of summer...

2009-02-13T09:17:00.004+13:00

I'd been waiting and hoping that the sunflowers would appear again this year....
they are so beautiful and cheery!

at Waihi...

2009-02-11T07:53:00.002+13:00

Lake Taupo

2009-02-11T07:49:00.000+13:00

Adventures.....

2009-02-10T15:53:00.003+13:00

Amazing mountain - Maungatautari

where they have developed these great pest proof fences to help re-establish the original fauna and wildlife.
It's a great spot to wander around.

the house.... updates

2009-01-31T21:42:00.006+13:00

I didn't get finished till it was almost dark tonight, so unfortunately I had to use the flash... makes the white very white. hehehe. Still need to finish the second coats, and do all the gloss trim, which is a creamy colour. Pretty happy with how it's all looking so far though.

the house.... updates

2009-01-31T21:27:00.006+13:00

The outside room looking MUCH better after several coats of paint. The new carpet is in the garage just waiting. Was also going to make a petition to divide the room up - one half will be an office/sewing area the other will have the futon sofa, so it can act as a spare room for all those visitors.

Love Song and colt

2009-01-05T22:54:00.000+13:00

rat bags!

2009-01-05T22:49:00.001+13:00

gorgeous little ones!!!

2009-01-05T22:42:00.001+13:00

Christmas

2008-12-29T10:16:00.006+13:00

~ One of the many beaches down the road from my aunt and uncles place where Christmas was this year.
Check out their place.... in case you need a a getaway. :)
www.tidesong.co.nz

Tessa and Israel

2008-12-29T10:10:00.003+13:00

Israel

2008-12-29T09:56:00.003+13:00

~ Israel Manga - Christmas 2008

Israel

2008-12-29T09:52:00.002+13:00

Introducing.....

2008-12-10T21:11:00.003+13:00

I can't believe it's been 3 weeks now......

Israel Manga Cameron was born November 24th, 2008 weighing 10lbs 7.5oz.

Tessa went into Labour around 6am that morning and Israel was born at 2:34.

Tamati opened his bible to Isaiah 44 that morning;

Israel the Chosen

1 "But now listen, O Jacob, my servant,
Israel, whom I have chosen.

2 This is what the LORD says—
he who made you, who formed you in the womb,
and who will help you:
Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant,
Jeshurun, whom I have chosen.

3 For I will pour water on the thirsty land,
and streams on the dry ground;
I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring,
and my blessing on your descendants.

4 They will spring up like grass in a meadow,
like poplar trees by flowing streams.

5 One will say, 'I belong to the LORD ';
another will call himself by the name of Jacob;
still another will write on his hand, 'The LORD's,'
and will take the name Israel.

They'd talked about the name Israel for one of their children before they were even married... this just cemented the name.

There have been some pretty outspoken opinions about the name. Mum's worried that he'll have all sorts of problems later in life when he goes to travel, or just being teased for the name.

It's funny how some people immediately think of the country - where as it didn't even cross my mind.

He seems to have a very placid personality, and so far has been pretty easy. Evita and Tawhai absolutely adore him.

I was incredibly humbled to be invited to be there for the birth. It was the longest and hardest one for Tessa, with the other two arriving in a couple of hours. It was quite difficult for me - the one who likes to be busy and able to help to have to sit back and pray through most of it. It was amazing though! And I do somehow feel a different bond to him now too.

I thought I had downloaded the photos on this computer - but can't find them, so watch this space!

Praying everyone is well and filled with awe at the season we're now in.

That you're finding time to reflect on the reason and the joy we should find in Jesus' birth.

Be super blessed!

xxx

High Tea....

2008-11-26T08:09:00.004+13:00

men at work?

2008-11-26T07:52:00.002+13:00

This was at this very cool little spot called "Water Works" on Road 309. Translated - middle of nowhere.

You get to play with lots of different things.... most things run by water. It's cool! And very pretty little area to wander.

a while.....

2008-11-26T07:24:00.003+13:00

Life has been crazy busy, and there is so much to catch up on......

My friend Jilyjane from Christchurch came up to visit a couple of weeks ago. It was so nice to catch up with her! We went and stayed at a little township in the Coromandel and explored by day - which even included some lovely lazing in the sun at Hot Water Beach.

We had two days up there, which was perfect.

Now we're busy plotting where we can run away to next...... Australia is looking good. :)

Guy Fawkes

2008-11-07T16:04:00.002+13:00

Seems like a truly bizarre thing to celebrate... someone trying to blow up Parliament in London.

Still..... while the weather was miserable on Wednesday 5th November, we'll be having a big bonfire this weekend with sparklers for the kids (myself included) this weekend.

Instead of celebrating Guy Fawkes we'll be celebrating my oldest brother's birthday, as well as just having the chance to hang out as a family.

Tessa is due in just over a week... so soon the family will have one more. Exciting times! I've even been asked if I would like to be there for the big moment. I'm not sure how my boss is going to react to that, but I would love to be around. :) Tessa is such a sweetie always thinking about including her family. Love her to bits. Such an absolute blessing!!!

Hope everyone else is finding time for their family....

Be blessed. xxx

mother dearest.....

2008-10-15T20:43:00.004+13:00

~
I haven't really written anything about Mum lately. In fact, at all since the news of the cancer.

She had her surgery a couple of months ago now, and only has 4 more sessions of radiotherapy to go of her 5 1/2 weeks.

She's been doing awesomely well - Praise God!

There have been a few upsets - like a bone scan coming back with signs of osteoporosis which has led to a change in hormonal treatments, which was pretty major, as she'll be on this drug for the next 5 years. Other than that though - I think she's rather enjoyed learning about the machines and meeting all the different people.

All the staff at the hospital that she's in daily contact with are wonderful, and that in itself has been a huge blessing!
Really there is so much to be thankful for in this situation.

Of course no one ever wants to hear the news that they or a family member has cancer - but in amongst all of this there have really been pockets of grace for mum to land in.

My prayer is that it would draw her closer to God, and us as a family closer to one another. I think it's done that already though.

It's breast cancer awareness month, and tomorrow I'm joining mum and some of her friends on a walk around the lake..... all of us in PINK! (eick!), including the dog. :-)
I'll have to try and get some photos of the frills.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9

Pretty in Pink

2008-10-15T19:55:00.003+13:00

The Birthday Girl at the zoo a couple of weekends ago.

Evita just turned 2!!

whakatane....

2008-10-03T22:47:00.002+13:00

Taken from half way up the hill... there's a cute lookout over the township. Was a stunning day to be down there checking in on everyone.

at the beach.....

2008-10-03T22:45:00.002+13:00