The Crin

This Is It

2009-10-30T15:51:00.004+13:00

Hey hey my little blogspotters.

I've been pretty bad at blogging recently ... like for maybe the last two years!! But today I had a real inclination to post something, which is kinda odd because there is nothing in particular that has happened that has caused me to blog.

I put it down to the fact I am back at BCM for the weekend and as I lie on Juanita's couch with laptop on knee, it just brings back those old blogging days.

So...nothing really to say. Haha. I will see if something profound occurs and I write again soon. Otherwise I might see you in another six months!!

Message to Matt

2009-07-17T12:03:00.001+12:00

Christmas Day 2008

2008-12-25T15:56:00.003+13:00

As I sit here to write this, I have each of my parents asleep on my two couches, Popa and Aunty Val asleep on two lazyboys and Matt on the other playing Wii. In all honesty, I have been looking forward to these holidays for months: not just to finally have a break, but to show off to my darling brother my new digs. (He has been to broke to afford to come down until now, when Mum and Dad shouted him!)

I just walked in front of Matt who sarcastically snapped at me for walking as slow as possible between him and the TV screen. For once I didn't even do this on purpose, but a day filled of food, and eyes battling to stay open had me wandering in lala land and so fortunately we didn't have an exchange of sarcastic comments that would have been the case several years ago. I just rolled my eyes and smiled as I reflect on how quickly we slip back into our family roles, no matter how long it has been since we moved out and became real life grown-ups!

Anywho, with all that said and done, and me now wondering if it made any sense, it's been a good day. We got up early and went to help set up at Belfast for a Christmas Pancake Service. Niiiice. After a carol sing and quick tidy up (especially in comparison to the set up) we were home opening presents. Matt is a little gutted cos two out of the three birthday/Christmas presents he got me I already have. Hopefully he has learnt it is risky to buy a CD/DVD/Book lover any of the above when you live so far away you have no idea what they already own. But he obviously tried hard and has good taste so I convinced Mum to buy them off me, and we will use that money to buy something else "from Matt" that I would like.

Anywho, then we went for lunch at Sequoia 88, a nice restaurant where we ate too much and hence now are struggling for the land of the living and awake. Okay, the others have since succumbed, and shortly I will also.

That brings us pretty much up to date, so all that is left to say is: Feliz Navidad!! I want to wish you a merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

T3 Continued...

2008-10-21T18:14:00.002+13:00

So for some reason, the photos wouldn't get put on that last post, so here's another try...

T3 in Melbourne

2008-10-21T18:00:00.005+13:00

Nothing like having a work trip overseas!! And even more awesome because the Territorial Youth Team at the mo are absolutely brilliant people. So here's some photos of us (Jules, Mat, Stewart, Rebecca, Karen, Barry, Leslie and I) in the land of the Koala, Kookaburra and Kangaroo...

(To clarify, we went over for a Tri-Territorial DYS and DCMO's Conference - with our counterparts from both Australian territories, Fiji and Tonga. Great times...)

Kids, don't try this (above) at home ... or in a hotel dining room ...

And then, below ... is Jules: agent of truth.

First Year Reviews...Photos of the Kids

2008-10-09T23:12:00.001+13:00

Yeah, believe it or not, but we've been out in SA officer ministry for a year, so they brought us back to BCM for a review ... and of course, the highlight was on seeing everyone again.

A Surprise Encouragement

2008-10-01T13:45:00.001+13:00

So I'm sitting back at my old haunts at BCM for my First Year Review and something happened yesterday that I must confess made me stop and give thanks to God for His encouragement and to express my amazement at how He works all things together.

We're sitting around ... all seven of GFWs, plus the Tiko, Stu, Kylie and two aux-captain couples.

After I did my little speel on "My first year", one of the aux-captains interrupted and asked if I was in the youth group at Hamilton 13-14 years ago. (I was, just.) Apparently, he remembers me from a visit we did to his town back then. And apparently our visit was his first encounter with The Salvation Army and we were instrumental in him joining and eventually becoming an officer.

While this might not seem like a big deal to you, I confess to shedding a few tears. Sometimes it just feels like I'm working so hard to see God's Kingdom grow and at times I wonder if we are actually making a difference. And here is a guy that little old 13-14 year old me impacted (only through God of course!) and who has now done years of missionary service and is helping to share the life-transforming power of Jesus with others!

What a cool encouragement and reminder that God uses everyone and anything to reach people, and often we have no idea how we are being used!

My only prayer is that when I get to Heaven I will meet thousands more who say, "Corryn, due in part to your obedience to the Father, I am here." Wow. Talk about rewards!

The Kids .... Invercargill and Nelson

2008-08-25T11:03:00.001+12:00

The Shack

2008-08-25T10:07:00.003+12:00

So I haven't read as many books in recent years as I used to (I think doing tertiary study kind of knocks you on the head!) but Karen highly recommended this book to me a couple of months ago, so I bought it but only recently (like last weekend) got around to reading it and whoa. It was like all of the lessons that God has been teaching me were again brought up here - and more!

I don't usually go around recommending books left, right and centre, but for this one I will make an exception.

The Shack is written like a story, with Mack's (the main character) daughter being abducted and murdered in a shack. Then, several years later, he gets a letter from God inviting Mack to meet him ... in the shack.

I won't go into further detail because I don't want to spoil the story for you ... but if you are looking for a good - nah, GREAT - book to read, go get yourself a copy of this one.

I have been fully challenged on my religosity and reminded again that God is all about relationship. Currently, my copy has already been passed to a friend to read, but this is one book I am seriously looking at buying for birthday presents! And already I can't wait to read it again!!

Popa

2008-07-22T17:10:00.003+12:00

Just before flying home to Christchurch, Mum and I stopped by my Popa's resthome so I could say hello. At 94, he is doing well, but has most definitely aged since the last time I saw him in (I think) April.

But he cracked me up nonetheless... when talking about Nana, Popa mentioned how beautiful she was. As Nana and I are familiar-looking, I asked what he thought about me and he managed to fit all the adjectives into one.... improving. Mum and I laughed hilariously!

Impossible!

2008-07-03T12:38:00.002+12:00

God loves with a great love the man whose heart is bursting with a passion for the impossible.

(William Booth)

I Nose Best

2008-07-03T12:37:00.000+12:00

Frustration and Grace

2008-07-03T12:12:00.004+12:00

There's an ad on TV at the moment where a little boy looks up at his mum doing the laundry and says, "Mum, what's frustrating?"

In honesty, in recent weeks my frustration levels have been steadily increasing ... be it by certain people, situations, geographical distances ... it's only been by God's grace I haven't blown my top completely.

I have been gently rebuked by God in the last few days abut my frustrations with people who shalt remain nameless, and gently reminded that, just like me, these people are on a journey. And actually what I perceive might not be what is really going on underneath the surface. Like what I see as arrogance, might actually be a wall erected to protect themselves from vulnerability.

Then Bucko mentioned that his favourite word was 'grace'. And it got me thinking again ... what a great word it is, incredible in fact, and how I want people to extend grace to me for my failings and weaknesses, but how quick I am to extend judgment, instead of grace towards others. And that's not a Christ-like characteristic at all.

So I sit here before you, acknowledging I am but a flawed human being, but renewing my resolution to extend the grace God has shown me towards others. And funnily enough, since I resolved to live a life of grace .... those frustrations seem to be disappearing.

Officers Fellowship - June 08

2008-06-27T14:28:00.001+12:00

We're all [in the snow] together...

2008-06-09T16:36:00.011+12:00

Saturday was a day marked on my calendar for a very long time .... along with Shelley, Reuben and several of the youth from Christchurch City, I was going to see Disney's HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL ON ICE!!

The day arrived ... I wrapped up warmly and picked up Shell and Reubs for the big event of our week. Now I know I am a grown up, but when it started (despite cheesy American announcer guy) ... I was flippin' excited!!! I tapped my toes, bopped my head, clapped in time with all the others ... and even thought ... if only I'd taken up ice skating ... (there are many reasons that didn't happen!)

And would you believe that in the intermission ... between Breaking Free and You are the Music in Me .... Shelley, Emma and I were all texted to be told it was snowing outside. Very exciting news for us northerners who had never lived in a place where it actually snowed before!!

But trust me, the moment we stepped outside the doors of the Westpac Arena, we were very much greeted with a temperature that had told us it was the truth. And there was snow on my car!! (Unfortunately I had forgotten my camera.)

Ever so slowly I drove out to Belfast to drop of Shelley and Reuben ... and it was a miracle keeping Reub in the car, let me tell you .... someone was very excited by the white stuff all over the trees, plants, cars ... and it only got heavier the closer we got to Belfast.

Alas, at my place, there was just a very heavy frost. Something about being too close to the ocean :( but I managed to snap some photos on the way to, and at, church the next morning (though it doesn't look half as impressive as it did the night before!) ....

The Belfast Sallies
At the Belfast corps
Sim the drummer

At Northwoods

Reuben
Snowfight: Jessica (?) and Micah

A Little Catch Up On Life...

2008-06-03T14:38:00.003+12:00

To all my superfans out there who keep coming to check out my blog ... I apologise profusely for my apparent slackness in keeping you up to date with my world, but things have been a little crazy as of late.

I guess I should firstly mention the new arrival at my abode of Juanita, my flatmate (We are pictured to the left). Ai, she finally caved to the pressure and moved in her belongings into one of my spare rooms (or, as Mr Tumnus would call it, Spare Oom.) We are still talking to each other three weeks later, so it appears all will work out well on that front. I'm enjoying having another person around the place, and I have attempted to make her feel like part of the family by talking her ear off every night and jumping on her every morning to make sure she makes the most out of her weekend.

I have also got my car back, nice and fixed, though through some stupid law, it turns out I was at fault at the accident, so I had to pay the $500 excess. I was not amused.

Work has been really busy, and I kind of got a little too stressed the other weekend, so added to some dodgy spaghetti that I digested, I ended up very sick the other weekend. At least until I vomited. Then I felt a whole lot better, outside of the fact I had to change my sheets. (Just what you want to hear, I know!)

I've also been exploring new parts of Christchurch ... and learning faster ways of getting around town, which is thrilling. I'm feeling way more at home - though I refuse to don any red and black gear unless yellow is in the get up also - GO CHIEFS!

Anywho with that, I better get back to it. Laters.

Daniel and Sam's Wedding

2008-04-29T17:29:00.002+12:00

Oops.

2008-04-29T17:18:00.003+12:00

Just because I seem to like making life more difficult (and expensive) for myself, after dropping Blair off at his flat last Thursday night, I had a little ding. I'm letting the insurance companies fight it out. Technically, I wasn't at fault but they suggest legally I am. Yip ... one of THOSE accidents. Sigh.

And with Southern 7s and Daniel and Sam's wedding, it couldn't have happened at a worse time. (Don't test me on that, Lord!)

In the words of Catherine Booth

2008-04-24T10:53:00.003+12:00

I know not what He is about to do with me, but I have given myself entirely into His hands.

Catherine Booth

Breaking In and Entering

2008-03-01T18:50:00.004+13:00

So I've been back in Wellington this week for meetings with various people, and have been staying with my Midland counterpart, Rebecca, back at Booth College of Mission.

Then yesterday, we moved across campus into Karen (our Central courtpart) and Shaun's spare bedrooms. But since noone else was moving in, we kind of took our time moving out. Like Rebecca hadn't still until this afternoon.

Karen and I ended up doing some retail therapy in Lower Hutt, leaving Bec going to visit her friends. Rebecca left a message that she had finished tidying/cleaning up our previous unit but I had to finish the dishes. Easy enough, so you'd think.

So when we get back to College, I run over to our unit, let myself in with the key I still have and notice in the bedrooms that there are bags and suitcases I don't recognise. So I ring Karen, "Oh my gosh, someone has moved into our unit and I haven't finished the dishes!" and while on the phone, in walks a woman who heard my entry!

I hung up on Karen, and in between my giggles (my nervous reaction) I tried to explain why I was standing in her foyer on her phone, before drying dishes at record speed and escaping out the door I came in.

Oh, only in the world of Corryn!!

Dentists, Travelling and New Things.

2008-02-19T15:49:00.002+13:00

It's hard to believe I've so far lived in Chch 6 weeks and have racked up more kms in travel than I dare to work out ... I've been as far north (in the division) as Nelson, visiting Dunedin this weekend, and finally trekked (albeit not that far) to Akaroa FINALLY ... which was where my great, great, great grandfather and his whanau arrived on the Comte de Paris from France in August 1840. We even found the last of his earthly remains - albeit he was very dead. Ashes to ashes. RIP Joseph Libeau.

Mum and Dad went back to Hamilton on Saturday and it's weird now with nothing to look forward to (as in none of my northern whanau or friends visiting) ... at least until to the arrival of the Benefields in June. That does exclude my visit to Hamilton at the end of April for my cousin's wedding.

But I get to go back to BCM for just under a week at the end of February for Candidates QIWP, Youth QIWP and then the Cadets Welcome and I am so looking forward to seeing some of my Wellington whanau again.

I'm not feeling the best today and what with a toothache (dentist tomorrow whoop whoop!) I must confess I am guilty of having a little pity party and I had a little cry and told God I'd had enough of the new things. Which is true - I'm sick of going to new places and meeting new people, and visiting my new corps, new Bible Study, working out my new job and new passwords, driving around new streets in a new city, sussing out new shops and new malls ... not to mention finding a new dentist and doctor and hairdresser! They were a big adventure the first couple of weeks. Now I've had enough. I'm ready for a little bit of monotony - even if it just means sleeping in the same bed for seven consecutive nights! (A feat I've only attained once since leaving College before Christmas!!

However, God has been good throughout it all ... and hasn't given up on me yet (and thankfully isn't going to!) Despite the weeds beginning to show in the garden and the rubbish needing to be put out for tomorrows collection (something I've managed to miss all weeks I've been in Chch bar 2!)

Here's to hopefully soon finding routine. And a cheap dentist.

More Make Change and Parachute Photos as I add them...

2008-02-19T15:34:00.002+13:00

Mat and Jules

Juanita, Josh and Cameron
Switchfoot at Parachute
Nicky's party trick

Make Change Photos

2008-02-04T16:14:00.001+13:00

Matt, Sam and Jacobme with Hannah and Emma
Shar, me, Karen and Bec
Daybreak

These are the Days of our Lives

2008-02-04T16:02:00.000+13:00

It seems like I hit the ground running and I haven't yet come up for air - this is the best description of my first month in Christchurch. I pretty much arrived, then within a week took off north for Make Change and Parachute, and arrived back in the middle of last week, went back to the officer, spent the weekend at the Linwood Corps Camp, and here I am again, with Nelson looming on the horizon.

Make Change and Parachute were awesome. I met heaps of the youth from down this way - even if I didn't realise there was any from Blenheim or Belfast until the final Sunday - oops! God fully showed up at Make Change (as we had prayed for!) and heck ... well, it's hard to put into words aye sometimes all that happens. But God is good and He is faithful and He met me as well as many young people there and spoke pretty powerfully into our lives.

It was cool catching up with so many old friends from around the country, and of course, making new ones, though I found it quite strange to be at this event that I hadn't really been part of organising but was labelled as part of the team because of my new role. But I tried to help out where I could, and it was definitely helpful that I knew my way around Hamilton well still! I often was out buying things that we had forgotten or run out of!

Definitely a top notch affair.

Anywhos ... back to the drawing board. So much to do!! Mum and Dad arrive tomorrow night for a holiday, so I'm very looking forward to that - the first of my friends and whanau to whom I can show off my new digs!!

Coming Home From My Summer Holiday...

2008-01-04T16:11:00.000+13:00

Seems like a bit of a weird title considering I'm kinda not really home. Depending on your view of things. But I've left my "north" holiday in Hamilton/Waihi Beach/Rotorua and I'm back, albeit ever so briefly in Wellington, before leaving in the early hours of tomorrow morning to catch the ferry to move south to Christchurch. But enough of that ... time to reminisce ...

My final night at College was meant to be a prank night, and I had it planned, but alas it all turned nasty on me and I ended up the one being pranked by Robert. Thus, my pride is still hurt and I shall wait on telling you about that for another time.

Saturday morning before Christmas I drove to Hamilton, via stopping for shopping at the outlet stores in Otaki (if I'd known how good they were, I would have stopped more frequently in my two years living here!) and also at Wayne and Bridget's new place for lunch. It twas fab seeing their mansion (literally) and I've picked my room for when I stay. Isaac and Joel were fun to spend time with, and it turned out it was Bridget's birthday, so a great little break.

After that, I pretty much drove straight through to Hamilton, stopping for a drink at Taihape, and arrived at Mum and Dad's for a late dinner.

Spent the next few days just meandering round my old haunts, taking Matt Christmas shopping (seemingly a new tradition!), and catching up with friends.
Aunty Jocelyn, Uncle Ian and Olivia stayed with us from Christmas Eve, so they joined us for our family present opening and BBQ bfast with Popa. Lunch Uncle Wayne, Aunty Carolyn, Michael and Hannah added to the chaos at our house (nah... not really ... was fun spending time with them all!) and at dinner we went out to the farm for our Smith Christmas.

Boxing Day I took Olivia out to the sales ... nothing like shopping ... and even ran into an old guy (Joe) from the youth group I'd lost touch with years ago, which excited me much - I had been praying about him just recently and had asked God if I could run into him so was absolutely stoked.

Spent the next couple of days just resting, watching DVDs, reading books etc at Mum and Dads before heading over to Uncle Alister and Aunty Sue's bach at Waihi Beach for a few days, including New Years. Was great catching up with family again and friends I haven't seen in ages, and in particular Haley and her growing baby bump! We kind of had three New Years celebrations around midnight, because we weren't too sure who had the right time, but eventually conceded it must be 2008. (Scary - where are the years going!?)

Matt and I drove from there to Rotorua where we picked up Kelly, Lucy and Michael and then went to Blue Lake to spend the day with Jaci, Carl and Joel and Jac's whanau. They've been like a second family to me growing up so was awesome to spend time with them, and play around with Levi and Joel.

Then Matt and I stayed the night with my cousin Linda and her family before I went and met up with Jaci and Carl again to head out to Lake Rotoiti where we met up with Sue, Simon and the girls. Much fun heading out on the boat into the island hot pools. Nice. Methinks I'm slightly browner than when I left. (I do mean slightly!)

Then I drove back to the 'Tron, where I spent my last day running around doing final errands, catching up with the Siufangas and Rachel, before flying down this morning.

Anywho, that's the basic gist. Had a few great laughs etc, and will post some photos at a later date, but my fingers are getting tired and I'm sure you've had enough of reading my bleating. I just now need to figure some way of getting everything to fit into my car somehow ready for the morning .... eh.

Life ... as it's happened.

2007-12-18T16:57:00.000+13:00

Okay, so I'm the slackest blogger out (well, outside of Sue and Si!!) but bear with me, it has been full on crazy around this place, with graduation, commissioning, my birthday, packing, and the moving trucks .... eh.

However, I'm alive still and now a fully ordained and commissioned Salvation Army officer (scary!) and about to head off for Christmas and New Years before heading to Chch to begin my new role and live my new life.

Plus on the absolutely awesome side of life, I got my new car. Very nice. I love it.

Meanwhile.... some photos of the big commissioning w/end...

A long running practical joke that I won't explain, but here are our session giving our ATP Janine a bunch of plastic flowers.

At the Silver Star lunch - in the back is Christine, Matt, Val, Dad. In front is me, Popa and Mum.
At the Silver Star lunch are some of the Smith cousins: Olivia, Emma, me, Ben and Matt.

After the graduation, Matt, Michael, Hannah and I have a photo with Billy Booth.
Getting ordained, commissioned and appointed.
Trying hard to remember the doctrines.
With Janine and Roberto, are the Witnesses for Christ in their lovely sashes and the newly commissioned Captains.

And for the first time we ALL have red stuff on our shoulders!! From left: Jo, Ross, me, Perry, Sue, Simon, Annette, Kevin and Janette.

FIRE!!

2007-11-08T12:08:00.001+13:00

Well, you can never say life is dull!!

This morning, Tiko and Shelley, Stu and Kylie, Kevin, Annette, Suzanne and I went into town to the tailors to have another uniform fitting (prior to commissioning) and we stopped off at Trade on the way. I was looking at the books when the fire alarm sounded and we (minus Stu and Tiko who were off getting us all coffees and hot chocs) were ushered along with all the THQ and Central DHQ staff - and whoever else got caught in it - to a 'safe place'.

Lo and behold, then four fire engines turned up (and I have to confess I was jumping up and down in excitement!)

It turns out there was a real fire. I'm not sure on the details but from what I heard, someone was working on something on the roof and somehow caught something on fire and smoke was smelt in the building somewhere. Fortunately no one was hurt and I believe THQ is still standing.

I'm reminded of one of Jen's favourite sayings: Drama, drama, drama!

Being a Christian

2007-11-07T13:40:00.000+13:00

“When you become a Christian, Jesus will invade your life and make you into somebody He can use to change the world. Through you, He will challenge racism. Through you, Jesus will attack sexism, poverty, and militarism. That was never taught to me when I was growing up. I never heard that I could be an instrument that God could use to change the world.
All I was told was that being a Christian meant I would go to heaven when I died. I was never told that the primary reason Jesus saved me was to make me into somebody whom He could use to change the world into the kind of world He willed for it to be when He created it.”

-Tony Campolo

Guy Fawkes

2007-11-06T09:57:00.000+13:00

Yeah sure, it seems a little nuts that we in little old NZ would have fireworks in remembrance of a guy who tried to blow up the British Parliament Buildings yonkers ago, but, hey, any excuse for a BBQ and fireworks, eh?!

Clockwise from left: Reuben, Naomi and Patrick bring over the fireworks; Kendal, me and Naomi; The men doing the BBQ; Naomi cartwheeling; Tiko prepping the BBQ.
Clockwise from left: Reuben and Patrick on the see-saw; Monique and Sue; Terry (Gotta love Perry's face in the background!!); Kayla and Kylie.
Clockwise from left: Christina, Kate and Hannah; fireworks; Emily and Reuben with sparkers; the kids sparkler trails; Kendal.
Clockwise from left: Simon lights the sparklers for the kids; Naomi and her sparkler; fireworks; Kayla watching the fireworks in the sky (classic face!); Kate; Rochelle.

Photos of My Wellington Whanau

2007-10-29T16:49:00.002+13:00

Lucy and Michael's Wedding

2007-10-29T16:33:00.000+13:00

Yes, my darling Lucy finally tied the knot with Michael!! It's been a long time coming - 5 years in fact! I made the trek up to Hamilton on Thursday afternoon and got back late last night, so am fully shattered, but enjoy these photos of Mr and Mrs Clement...

Clockwise top left: Our mothers; Kelly and Lillie walk down the aisle; followed by Jess and Mia; Me reading a poem to Lucy and Michael; Lucy and her dad, David, coming down the aisle.
Clockwise top left: The vows; the kiss; Mr and Mrs Clement; Kelly, Lillie, Lucy and Michael; Dayna and Kelly.
Clockwise top left: me, Carl and Jaci; Mum and Dad; me and Ali; Mum and Sue. Clockwise top left: Joel; Levi; Jaci, Kelly and I; the cake; cutting the cake.
Clockwise top left: the parents table; Carl, Jaci and Joel; Mum, Dad and I; The Awesome Foursome: Jaci, Lucy, Kelly and me; Michael and Lucy's first dance; the rest starting to dance.

I Got Me Another Musical Fix

2007-10-20T22:54:00.001+13:00

Yes, I confess, I'm a musical junkie and I just got myself another fix.

I went with Caroline, Janette, Janine, Heather and Suzanne tonight to FINALLY see the movie Hairspray and oh my gosh I am still buzzing.

Please account for the fact that I have been pegged the cadet who most likely wished she lived in a musical, but after the singing, the dancing and the bright colours (not to mention that always happy ending) I still can't see why anyone wouldn't!!

Brilliant. And a fab night out.

Definitely one I could watch again for a lift-me-up and a laugh.

Good Back, Come Back!

2007-10-19T15:59:00.000+13:00

So I went to Julie and Lachie's for dinner early last week and Julie had a looksy at my calves (long story - for another time). While I was on the ground, Hannah (bless her!) didn't quite realise how old she is (11 but the size of a 15 year old!!) nor how big (nearly my height), and she jumped on my back.

And I wanted to get angry, but I couldn't. It really wasn't all that long ago when I went through that stage and I remember how much I hated being told I was "too big".

However, my back has been in pain for the last ten days.

Julie has given me some exercises and advice (she used to be a physio), which was much appreciated and I am pleased to report, today (ten days after the initial incident) the pain has substantially lessened. Praise the Lord!!

So I know where I'm going...

2007-10-19T15:47:00.000+13:00

So, my fellow bloggers and bloggettes, I can finally tell you where I'm off to live...

CHRISTCHURCH.

Ooooh.

I have been appointed to be the Divisional Youth and Candidates Secretary for the Southern Division. Basically, this means that I am responsible for the young peoples programmes run by The Salvation Army in the South Island of New Zealand. I also will help (as much as I can) getting people from the South Island into Training College to begin their training as officers.

So yeah, big news. I'll be going home to Hamilton for Christmas and a little break before moving (via my current home in Wellington) to Chch.

Very exciting and terrifying. At least I know the Big Man upstairs is moving with me and will help me as we begin this new adventure together. BRING IT ON, I say!!

P.S. I do have spare beds for friends and family if you want a holiday in the deep south!!

Stop the Traffik!

2007-10-06T12:38:00.000+13:00

Human Trafficking is a global issue of great concern - one which The Salvation Army has chosen to target and make a difference.

Right now, the largest slave trade in history is taking place around the world. This slavery, called human trafficking, is a hidden evil that affects everyone, but especially women and children. Human trafficking is cloaked in darkness, confusion, fear, misunderstanding and control and many who try to take action, feel overwhelmed by the size of the task. As persons of faith, however, we can call on an Almighty God who longs for us to join our hearts and prayers on behalf of those who suffer.

To continue in this battle against the exploitation of women and children, please see the Resources menu above with ideas on how you as an individual or as a group can pray, fundraise, create awareness and help in the effort to expose and eliminate Human Trafficking.

Together we will make a difference.

For more info, click here...

Mission Weekend - Upper Hutt

2007-09-29T14:31:00.000+12:00

So twice a year, we have a "Mission Weekend" where we funnily enough do missions for a weekend at a corps. So far this year, we went to Levin and helped out up there in June, and last weekend we did it local and helped out at Upper Hutt.

Here's some photos of our great team...

Clockwise from top left: Lachie planting shrubs; Julie and Tiko gardening at Trentham Primary School; Annette raking; Kev; Lachie chucks up Kayla in the air (much to her delight); Sarah and Hannah.
Clockwise from top left: Me and Christina; Simeon and Tiko; Jennifer, Perry, Suzanne and Emily eating our pizza for lunch.
Clockwise from top left: At our movie night- Tiko, Steve and Stu; Patrick airborne; Rochelle and Doug (aka Tiko); me and Reuben; SuperGarth.
Clockwise from top left: Reuben and Naomi; Kevin eating his fish n chips tea; Emily and Kayla fasten seatbelts in their cardboard car; Kate, Sarah and Hannah in their car; Christina peek a boos; Terry, Zachary, Ethan, Simeon and Louis and their car.
Clockwise from top left: Lachie pre-extreme makeover; during the big shave; Lachie post-extreme makeover; Andrew and Rochelle get made over as well; Ty (aka Stu) and Julie.

Clockwise from top left: Simeon, Christina, Sarah and Reuben decorating their muffins; Kylie and Annette; Kayla feels Lachie's new head.

Clockwise from top left: Kayla and Stu; Tiko; me piggybacking Kayla and Emily; Naomi, Reuben and Cody; Garth and Kevin ready to dish up lunch.

Emily and my hair

2007-09-29T11:55:00.000+12:00

So about three days ago, I had my hair coloured and cut again - most people liked it (or at least pretended to) - except for Kayla, who said it was 'funny' - translation: I don't like it. She changed her mind yesterday.

Then last night at our College BBQ, I picked up Emily and sat her on my lap and we were talking about different things. Then she asked me if I was Monique's Nana. (How old do I look!!!??!) I laughed and said, "No, I'm Crinniebabes."

She looked a little puzzled then pulled down my oversized sunglasses to exclaim, much to her delight, "You are!" Lol.

Brief Update

2007-09-20T11:55:00.000+12:00

Sorry I haven't written in forever but I've been incredibly busy - prep for Commissioning has now stepped up a notch, plus assignments, sermons and just the normal procrastination .... well the blog has been somewhat waylaid.

Matt was down in Wellington this past weekend, which was awesome. He was down in Tawa with the National Youth Band. I do so much miss my little brother and he has been given strict instructions to visit me more often at my new appointment when I move in the New Year. (and now .... that hasn't been announced yet)

I've had tonnes of other visitors on recent weekends too - Ma, Pa and Popa; Aunty Sue and Uncle Alister; Jane Jane from Timaru ... and Mum and her friend Murrianna are coming down soon for another conference and then Jane and her whanau are looking at coming up in Nov I think.

Anywhos... will post some more photos and write properly shortly. Just not now. Sigh.

Orongomai Marae

2007-09-12T17:29:00.001+12:00

So as part of our course, and doing some cultural immersion, all us cadets and whanau packed up and spent last weekend at Orongomai Marae. It was an awesome experience - both the Maori aspect, the learning aspect, and just the 'bonding' that comes about with a huge group living together. The food was spectacular too!

We went Friday afternoon, led by Shelley and Sue as kaikaranga's (doing the 'call' as we headed onto the marae) and then completed the powhiri (welcome) inside. This time I even hongi-ed without whacking foreheads too hard!

I really loved all the art ... I love how they tell stories. I spent a great deal of time looking at the carvings and tokutoku panels ... I have a lot of respect for the artists. It's incredible.

The night was looong (have you ever tried to get adults, tweens and preschoolers to go to sleep in the same room but at different times?) and I was glad I wasn't a parent and could just enjoy it. In saying that the kids were really well behaved and once the lights were out ... well eventually people nodded off.

Except me. I was stuck between two snorers. I won't mention names but I was surprised by one (the lowest and loudest) being a six year old boy!!

Reuben and Naomi.
Tiko by one of the carvings inside.
Perry, Simon and Sue
Me, Naomi, Patrick and Reuben
Kate, Hannah and Christina

Think C

2007-09-06T17:37:00.001+12:00

Officially, I am writing my Think C essay, which is due tomorrow. Everyone thinks cos they hear typing, I must be working. Methinks it is scary how easy it is to procrastinate...

Some Quotes

2007-08-31T11:09:00.000+12:00

Elbert Hubbard: Do not take life too seriously. You will never get out of it alive.

George Eliot: What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult for each other?

Isaac Asimov: If my doctor told me I had only six minutes to live, I wouldn't brood. I'd type a little faster.

Mark Twain: Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

Oliver Wendell Holmes: It's faith in something and enthusiasm for something that makes a life worth living.

Sarah Ban Breathnach: An authentic life is the most personal form of worship. Everyday life has become my prayer.

Thomas Jefferson: It is in our lives and not our words that our religion must be read.

Winston Churchill: We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.

Curry Night

2007-08-26T16:56:00.001+12:00

So last night we had "Curry Night", where everyone took up a curry to the Dining Hall and we had a mean as feed. Spicy all round - though I confess, I stuck with the very incredibly, can hardly taste it curry. I've never been that adventurous when it comes to my food, and I confess after my sick episode in Tonga, I'm even more cautious. However, it was a great nite all round.

Popa

2007-08-22T21:51:00.000+12:00

So I just got off the phone to Mum, who told me something my dear old Popa (pictured left with me and Matt in May) said today.

See, Popa is moving to a different resthome on Friday and was a little concerned about whether or not he was "allowed out" on the weekends, particularly to my Commissioning at the end of the year. Except when he asked Mum, it went more along the lines of if he would still be allowed "to go to Wellington for the granddaughter being rabbi-ed." Cute.

A little poem

2007-08-21T18:38:00.000+12:00

I found this little poem put out by Mainly Music, when I lived down in Timaru. I think its pretty cool and sums up me.

Sometimes I feel so inadequate,
I start to question am I ready for the things you ask?
My words are not so eloquent
but if I speak the truth in love
even simple words are equal to the task.
Oh Lord, let Your Spirit rise within me
until the world cannot deny that You exist.
This is my only passion,
this is the reason why I live:
to make You known,
to make You seen,
to be Your hands and to be Your feet.
I want to be a revelation of love.
I want to make the invisible God - visible.

Personal DNA

2007-08-20T12:18:00.000+12:00

So I did a personality test. Click on this link to find out what it came out as and let me know if you think they were on target or way off the mark!

http://www.personaldna.com/report.php?k=eKpmvZCpcrJPwSm-FO-CDADA-1a67

The Pegging Spreads

2007-08-15T14:18:00.000+12:00

One website to check out:
http://funatcollege.blogspot.com/

Yeah ... they pegged my house.

Revenge will be mine.

More Pegging!

2007-08-13T12:22:00.000+12:00

James is sooooo close, but still doesn't find them. Mwa ha ha!

Stu

Steve has no clue what just happened.

Robert thought I was giving him a hug, but on his first day back after Fiji, he got pegged!

Caroline. Double pegged.
Aunty Sue thought she came to BCM for a conference. I know she came to be pegged.
I had to bend twice, but I double pegged Suzanne.

You are a BEAUTIFUL Human Being

2007-08-09T16:58:00.001+12:00

Pegging

2007-08-09T16:43:00.000+12:00

So Pegging. I was emailed by Phil with the following explanation:

The 'Pegging' phenomenon is just taking off in the UK. The action of pegging requires a peg and a victim. The aim is to attach a peg to a victim without them knowing. A peg that is captured on film and shared for all to see is crucial.

As you will see there are many types of pegs some harder to perfrom than others. The more tricky the peg the more props you receive from your pegging peers.

The challenge was set. And I'm hooked by the challenge.

So I'm not too good yet (people around here were already suspicious of me before pegging took place!) but I will improve. In the meantime, enjoy my first Pegging Experience.

Janette.

Rochelle. Double pegged. I reckon I could have put in more but I ran out of pegs. D'oh.

James. Another time I think more pegs in the dreads would have been possible had I had more pegs with me.Andrew, who made me laugh. Double pegged - first by Murray, then myself - and despite people making jokes about pegs and his tail, he still didn't click. Lol.

Ross. Finally epaulettes came in handy.

Kendal and Naomi Picasso

2007-08-05T17:02:00.001+12:00

So Kendal (5) and Naomi (7) spent a good deal of time at my house yesterday, watching 'The Sound of Music' (they were both excited to see the grandmother from 'The Princess Diaries' young - though wanted to know where Princess Mia was ... sigh ...) and we also drew pictures, so I thought I'd share my favourites with you...

Stinkage.

2007-08-04T15:16:00.000+12:00

So it's been a little crazy the past 24 hours. Yesterday my 13-yr-old cousin and her parents were told that she has Hodgkins Disease.

I rang Dad when I got the text and, after talking to him, had a big cry with Janine. I talked to Mum this morning as well. I think she is very much in the "God, why??" space, and is fully wishing Nan and Grandad (Dad's parents) were still alive.

One thing I've learnt after my "trying-to-deal-with-having-epilepsy" and the many other health problems my family have had over the years, is you pretty much have to just hold onto God and ride it out. That's where I am at the moment. But I still have a lot of questions for God. It's hard trusting when things go pear shaped - or upside down and back to front. But I am still convinced that He loves us unconditionally and He never leaves our side.

And I believe that for my family. I know that as out of control as they must feel, God has His hand in it all - He is still in control. And I know He loves them each. My prayer is that they each be acutely aware of His presence and love at this time as they process the news. I ask that you also send up a prayer for them too.

It is hard being down here in Wellington, just wanting to give them a hug and comfort them in some way. At least God is there. Still God .... this sucks.

Basketball

2007-07-31T09:11:00.000+12:00

So last night, I went to watch the BCM boys play basketball down in Lower Hutt. A first for me even sitting through a whole game of basketball, but I managed to work out enough to follow the games fairly well.

The first one I watched was a final between two teams (the boys were on duties - reffing and such) and was highly entertaining, due in part to Tiko reffing but having no clue what he was doing and to the presence of a tall American player who proceeded to tell the ref and/or scorekeeper if something wasn't up to scratch. His team was leading for the whole game - that is, until the very end when the two teams were tied ... and the other team scored one extra point in the last 20 seconds due to a foul. Gutted for American's team, but yay for the other team (that I had been secretly cheering for because 1, they were always chasing; and 2, the American got more heated when they got close on the scoreboard.)

Anywho, I had actually attended to be the cheerleader/photographer for the History Book, plus it was a good night out, though I was quickly reminded on arrival of a particular male smell that I could have done without. I also had a couple of slightly embarrassing moments - the only one I will mention is when I went into the men's toilets, thinking it was the ladies. Oops.

The BCM team had made it to the semi's - yay - but gracefully lost by a narrow margin (of about 50 points lol.) Nonetheless, t'was a good evening out. Enjoy a few of the photos:

Last night's team:
Murray in the back; in the middle is Big Tim, James, Perry, Lachie, Bert; and in the front is Beau, Aaron and Tiko.

Mid-Winter Christmas Dinner

2007-07-31T09:10:00.000+12:00

Lachlan, Tiko and the team fully outdid themselves with preparing, cooking etc our first annual (at least since I've been here) Mid Winter Christmas Dinner. Ham, chicken, veges ... mmmmmhmm. Good times.

Clockwise from top left: Cody and Reuben eating; Julie showing her hidden talent - cartwheels - much to the delight of all the kids; Tiko doing the dishes; Monique looking up from the servery.
Clockwise from top left: The room; The Grinch came to try and steal the presents but got fully ambushed by the kids; Me and Reuben; Kayla eating dessert.
Clockwise from top left: Anastasia asleep at her first Christmas; The boys serving; Sue, Annette and Kylie eating; Shelley playing carols for our sing-a-long; Emily the Angel (how adorable!)

Boys will be Boys

2007-07-25T15:21:00.000+12:00

Shelley parallelled it to cats feeling the need to mark their territory by urinating. The temptation to put little fingers in wet cement. What am I talking about, you may ask?

I only shot home briefly to get changed before heading to Shelley and Tiko's for dinner when there was a knock on my door and I was greeted by Ethan, Simeon, Christina, Kendal and Naomi. Five angelic faces who stayed in my house for all of a minute or two before I kicked them out, telling them I was about to leave.

Unbeknownst to me, either Kendal or Naomi (as yet still unsure) fell of my front steps onto some still-wet concrete curbing that had recently been put down. And the pull was too strong for the boys.

As I came out a couple of minutes later, something caught my attention - I believe it was the words "Ethan" and "Simeon" written in the cement. Shelley and I tried to fix it (not really that successfully.)

Simeon was hiding out at the Brays but confessed when Tiko told him to think about his answer, and Ethan denied any participation at first ... until ex-cop dad Lachlan read him his rights and told him willful damage has a $1000 fine and 3 months imprisonment.

But I was disappointed. If you are going to write in wet concrete, the last thing to do is use YOUR names. Seriously Tiko and Lachie - what are you teaching your boys?

Home Makeover - GFW's styles

2007-07-24T12:39:00.001+12:00

Yesterday, some of my session had an extended morning tea as we had no class following it, and so as Janine left, she asked us to pass a message to visiting Commissioner Phil Needham that their house was open. I smiled slyly but she didn't notice. We quickly passed on the message and split, agreeing to meet up at our lovely Training Principal's home armed with glad wrap, toilet paper, confetti and post-it notes, and spent the better part of the half hour rearranging the lounge, kitchen etc., and doing it all over.

Mwa ha ha!

I wanted to blog about it yesterday but didn't, trying to keep my anonymity, however my cover was blown this morning when Robert saw me. Darn this beautiful honest face. I just can't not smile!

The Kitchen. He he - I rearranged some of the cupboards too. And I hope they looked in the microwave!

I think my job here is done. Paki paki.

Comm. Phil Needham's only request was that we save a seat for him to sit in. (NB - the cabinet to the right was not only glad wrapped around it, but every dish inside was done individually also. Hehe.)

The New Kitchen

2007-07-23T12:05:00.000+12:00

Yes, I am now the proud owner of a clean, modern and fully operational new kitchen. Of course, it hasn't always been the case, even once the kitchen was installed.

See, for the last three days I have been eating at Sue and Si's or via my microwave because while the gas to the oven was working, it would not ignite. So at about 10pm last night, I figured I would have one last looksy at it before I would fill out a maintenance form for Jill about it, only to then discover the cause ... cue drumroll ... there is a switch where the oven plugs into the wall that needs to be turned ON.

Grief. Sheesh.

2007-07-18T10:45:00.000+12:00

So outside of the holiday aspects, I have found the last three or so weeks incredibly tough going. It's been a year since Uncle Bob died, and a year today since Nana died.

Mum even took me to the GP up in Hamilton to check in case I had depression (which it turns out I don't, but he thinks I have been 'repressing' my grief and my body is starting to react now). I was relieved to hear I wasn't going crazy, which was a fear I had secretly been holding, but this whole having to deal with things sucks!

And then yesterday Joe and Nan (the Maori Ministries leaders for TSA in NZ) came out to College. I haven't seen them since Lester's funeral at Christmas time and when Joe sang man I heard Lester. So for the first time, I cried for Lester too. (Lester was kind of an adopted uncle).

It's funny though. Today was the day I've been dreading most and while I haven't had a good cry yet, it's the first day I'm feeling like there is a light at the end of this tunnel. What a tough journey though. Sheesh.

Home Sweet Home

2007-07-16T16:21:00.000+12:00

Well it was nice being in Tonga, and wonderful being with Ma, Pa and Matt, but it is true that there is no place like home. I'll confess that my suitcase is still not fully unpacked (largely due to me trying to find some place to hang the humungous tapa that Helu gave me) and that I still feel sleepy all the time, but things are slowly getting back to normal with classes beginning again this morning. And who could forget the re-commencement of my wonderful exercise regime!!

It feels a little strange going into my last semester at College - it feels like only yesterday that I started - and I haven't quite got my head around the fact I am going to be an officer in 5 months time (God willing it all goes ahead!) I'm eager/excited/petrified to find out my first appointment and where I will be living.

Anywhos, hope you're all well, whatever you are up to - I'm off to have a nap and take some Panadol, and then get a little bit of work done for tomorrow. Ciao.

My Tongan Holiday

2007-07-13T11:54:00.000+12:00

So much to say! Basically, I got shouted a trip to the Friendly Islands of Tonga by Mum and Dad as an early commissioning present. Some of my old girld and friends from Hamilton were going back for their grandmother's 80th birthday and so I joined them for 8 days.

Lahti and Lu'isa had gone to Tonga before us, Lahti had then come home to NZ and left for Kenya where she is serving with Church Army on a 6 month mission (please continue to pray for her) and so it was just me, Natasha and Fina on the way over, my darling bro Matt taking us to Auckland Airport for an early flight, meaning we had to leave Hamilton at 3am. I was not impressed by this timing at all! But the adventure had begun.

MONDAY

Monday we pretty much catnapped all day, recovering from the early start and Tuesday we begin the exploration of the island, courtesy of the Siufanga Ma and Pa - Sila and Malia. The general impression I had of Tonga was that it was like South Auckland but spread out on an island setting - an impression I still held to the end of my visit. I loved all the coconut trees too - very tropical!

TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY

Basically Tuesday and Wednesday we did the sights of Tonga. It is a gorgeous place with very friendly people.

Clockwise: Coconut Trees everywhere; The banana tree which fed me breakfast every morning, and a few other meals post-sickness (see below); The view from my seat in the Siufanga van as we traversed from one side of the island to the other.Clockwise: The views around Tonga. Top right is Sila at the spot where the first Christian missionaries arrived in Tonga. Sila called the fishermen there Peter, James and John. The beach on the bottom right is called Ha'atafu. Clockwise: We also visited the world famous Houma Blowholes; Me drinking from the coconut.
Clockwise: Natasha doing a mat (I helped a little too!); at Ha'amonga; me ballet dancing under Ha'amonga; Lu'isa scraping the coconut flesh off (I tried this too, and to a greater success than my brother I'm told!); Fina and Lu'isa have a late night ice cream.

THURSDAY

It started as a day of such promise but ended up gross. Natasha, Lu'isa and I went into Nuku'alofa to go shopping, and I spend most of my money on presents which I couldn't wait to get home to give out.

I asked if we could go to the 'Friends Cafe' which Janine had recommended, and as we stood outside there was a commotion coming down the street. Natasha told me the King of Tonga was coming. Prime opportunity for a photo, but I chose not to. Instead I waved with all my might and even got his attention (he turned to look at me). Natasha proceeded to yank my hand down and told me to run before the soldiers killed me, thus we took off running through the markets. Okay so she exaggerated a bit, but it turns out, you aren't even meant to acknowledge he is going by - Tash and Lu'isa broke the rules looking at him and me the palangi waving ... mortal sin! Haha.

Thursday night I won't go into in much detail other than I ate lobster which didn't agree with my stomach and there was mess to clean up on the bedroom floor, hallway and a whole lot of vomit in the toilet and bucket. Yuck.

Clockwise: Sila and the lobster; The Great Tongan Lobster battle of 2007; Lu'isa and I where I greeted the Tongan King; Tash laughing; Me.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

So Saturday we were off to Grandma's 80th Birthday Party. It started with a church service - all in Tongan but I sang my best anywho. My appetite still was yet to return by the time the feast was ready to begin and the entertainment was fab, with each of the families expected to have an item.

Sunday we were back at Helu's (Grandma's) for photos and family time. I was given a huge tapa from Helu which is a huge privilege (and an effort to fit into my suitcase!) I have it folded in half on my wall.

Clockwise Above: The crowds arriving; More food gets delivered; Coconut trees; Porky and his whanau were all over the tables. I didn't eat any myself but is a great feed for the others.

Clockwise Below: Natasha and Lu'isa; Some of the grandaughters dancing; Miriama; the Tongan officers "dancing unto the Lord"; Lisi.

Clockwise Above: Grandma Helu dances with some guy; Ngano; Teresa; Sila; Jo and Willy; Natasha and I.

I did crack up when some of the kiwi grandkids did the Waikato haka as an item (yay Moo Loo!) and Helu's brother yelled at them to get off the stage.

The dancing was incredible and I loved all the costumes. Brilliant.

Clockwise Below: Malia, Helu and Natasha; Natasha and Peta; Taiana and me (she told me I was very pretty - lifelong friends methinks!); Fina and Pepi; Taiana, Lou and Natasha.

Clockwise: Teresa, Tuialo, Keni and Inutoua; Girls galore; Sonasi learning the guitar.

Clockwise: Natasha and Taiana; Heading off to Fua'amotu; Leka, Natasha, Taiana; Sila feeding the pigs at the back of Helu's place.

It turns out that there is no 'r' in the Tongan language, so having a name like 'Corryn' proved a little difficult for some. The NZ and US raised grandkids got it righ 'Kirin', some of the extended family got 'Corrin', which is usual; With the 'r' and 'l' issue, I got a few 'Colin's, not to mention 'Colgate' and 'Chlorine'. But the overwhelming name had to have been 'palangi'.

We left Tonga at midnight their time last Monday, got through NZ customs to my dear old Dad about 3am NZ time, and back to Hamilton around 5am NZ time. Shattered. My dear Father was exhausted because he had also made the trip the night before, due to my mother getting the wrong date and time that we were arriving home, much to her amusement!

So at least now you are a little bit more up to date with my travels. I will write again about Tonga (probably) but have had enough for today! Ciao.

Holidays

2007-07-11T12:42:00.000+12:00

Well yip...as the title suggests we finally made it to holidays. I've been overseas, hence the big break from blogging, and then the internet connection at Mum and Dad's has been playing up so ... sigh.

I got to Hamilton just over 10 days ago, after the worst turbulance I had been in in awhile - the surprising factor being the worst of it was nearer Hamilton than Wellington! Even to the point that men were holding the arm rests! By the sounds of some ladies several rows behind me, they thought we were going to die, and I found myself in a 'peace' bubble, and nearly laughing out loud - it was kind of surreal.

Nonetheless I made it, shared my testimony during the Sunday morning service, and preached Sunday night. Didn't really enjoy the preaching if I am honest. It is true what they say about it being harder to preach to the 'home crowd'. It's kind of weird at the Corps - some things have changed heaps and others haven't at all.

Anywho, I headed home pretty much straight away to pack cos we left for Auckland to catch the flight to Tonga at 3am the next morning. More on that later...

Photo Booth

2007-06-25T12:44:00.000+12:00

Matariki

2007-06-23T10:18:00.000+12:00

Yip it's Matariki (Maori New Year) "when a small but distinctive star cluster whose appearance in the north eastern pre-dawn sky in late May, early June marks the start of a new phase of life ... [and] signals other new beginnings. Traditionally Matariki was the time to plant trees, prepare the land for planting crops and renew associations with whānau, family and friends. The New Year is also a good time to reflect on your place in the world, to reawaken old skills or try out new ones and set new goals."

So it has got me thinking about the last year, and about the year to come.

Predominantly, I have been thinking of Uncle Bob and Nana. Tomorrow it is one year since Uncle Bob died, and in three weeks, it has been a year since Nana's death. It seems both a lifetime ago and yet as if it happened yesterday.

I don't think you ever get used to them being gone, but you adjust to life without them. It has taken me until the last couple of months to let myself grieve. I still feel these holes in my heart. It still doesn't seem right visiting Aunty Val or Popa without their spouse being there as well. But I know they are with Jesus, in the best place, and I celebrate that one day I will be with them in God's presence as well.

I've also been thinking a lot of the future. In six months I will be a SA officer, the fulfillment of the vision I had over ten years ago. I have no idea what exactly my role will be, what town I'll be living in, how my life will change next. I'm excited and terrified all at the same time. I'm no longer petrified of walking the journey alone because I have learnt that I'm not. Not only do I have friends and colleagues who support me, but the Creator of the Universe is holding my hand. I couldn't possibly be in a better position! I feel like I am stepping out of the boat onto the water. I feel incredibly at peace.

It could happen to anyone, but always happens to Corryn!

2007-06-22T16:51:00.000+12:00

So I was down in the CLD rooms talking to James when Perry came in - there was somebody to see me in the foyer. So I trotted up with Perry.

"Who is it?"

"Dunno."

"Old? Young? Male? Female?"

"Male. Older."

I get to the foyer and there is this Maori fella on the couch who I don't recognise in the least. I figure if I talk to him, hopefully a few clues as to how we know each other will emerge. Thus I enthusiastically greet him, "Hey! How are you doing? How can I help you?"

He smiles kind of awkwardly at me, mumbles something and leaves with a slight wave.

Turns out the guy who was looking for me wandering down to my place and I had just greeted a complete stranger. What he must think of us loonies at BCM!?! I confess, I laughed hard.

Babysitting the Stevens: Day Three

2007-06-22T16:36:00.000+12:00

When Kendal got home after school yesterday, we went to get Monique ... who had painted (indirectly) her clothes, so had on a spare set from her bag. The spare trousers were soaking wet (Monique has a thing for puddles) so we changed into another pair of pants and in the meantime, Kendal escaped from Educare. After a bit of a panicking search, one of the staff noticed her walking down the street. I was reminded once of when Matt got lost biking in the country, and Mum said she was furious and relieved. I had the same emotions!

We ended up watching Barbie and Teletubbies DVDs and while I got dinner ready, God put on a magnificent lightning and thunder show (which I confess made me jump several times!) that according to my calculations was pretty much right above us. So I prayed for Sue and Si's safety.

This morning I used reverse psychology to get Monique dressed, (she IS as stubborn as Si - reminding me of the many times I was told I was 'stubborn like my father'!) and I made it into a competition for Kendal. But we broke a record: I took Niquey to Educare with me being fully dressed AND hair done AND makeup applied!!

But, fortunately for the girls, my babysitting stint is over. Sue and Simon arrived home and the girls are now safely back in their care. My mission (keep them fed, dressed and alive) succeeded! SHOT!

Babysitting the Stevens: Day Two

2007-06-21T10:06:00.000+12:00

Well what a crazy 24 hours! Heather and Aaron had their baby (Anastasia Canada) early yesterday morning, which gave us all a fright - her baby shower was the day before and the baby was just over 5 weeks early. Fortunately Annette and I had hospital visitations so we went and visited the latest addition to the BCM whanau.

Then I came home to pick up the girls and got tea ready, homework, yadda yadda. They took a long time to get to sleep - Monique wanted Mummy - but she went to Lala land pretty soon. I had my suspicions (later confirmed by Monique) that actually Kendal wouldn't stop talking.

I woke this morning to Kendal standing at the edge of my bed. She proceeded to push me over so she could get in. The early morning cuddle was nice. The cold side of the bed wasn't. But on the plus side, the routine seemed to go along smoother today than yesterday, and Kendal was even ready when Naomi and Reuben came to get her. Monique was even the fourth kid to Educare so we were truly on a roll! The only thing was that I didn't manage to get ready. Yes, tiding up the house, makeup, and my bfast had to wait til I got back. (Don't worry - I was fully dressed and had hair kind of done when I took Niquey to kindy!)

Somehow the girls have got the idea that after school we are going shopping for Mum's (Sue's) birthday present for next week. I don't know where that has come from. According to them, Corryn has loads of money (I wish I knew where I put it!!). But I think that birthday shopping should be a job for Dad (aka Si) when they get home from their tramp. So instead I might bribe them with a DVD from the video store though - Sue left popcorn for us. That would be a treat. And will preoccupy a couple of hours!

Babysitting the Stevens: Day One

2007-06-20T09:31:00.001+12:00

Yip... Si and Sue have headed off for a three day tramp up Mount Hector and I accepted the role of babysitting Kendal and Monique, aged 5 and 3 respectively. I have been in charge now for 2 and a half hours and have a new found respect for single parents.

Trying to keep to their morning routine was harder than I expected because they just wanted to do the fun things we usually do together. And Kendal mucked around like she had all the time in the world. Needless to say, I was exasperated greatly when, as Stu and Naomi came to take her to school, she pulled out her hair (that I had spent a great deal of effort in doing!) so I had to do a rush job. Teach me for being creative on long hair!

I managed to get jackets and gloves on, only Kendal would wear a beanie, but this was more than I had been told to expect so I counted my blessings. But then trying to get Niquey to walk with me to Educare was slow. She wanted to ride her bike, which we discovered outside, thus covered in thick ice. So trying to tell her she couldn't ride it, and then not to play with it because we had to get to kindy asap ... sigh ... thank goodness Annette and Emily wandered past so I could sidetrack her attention.

So here I sit, pondering the happenings for dinner, and when I am going to fit in my shower. At least they are currently fed and dressed and content. That is my aim for the next 3 days. I'll let you know if I succeed.

Mission Weekend Levin Styles

2007-06-18T16:56:00.001+12:00

So twice a year, we have Mission Weekend and this time we went up to Levin and spent a weekend with the peoples there. I have to say I really enjoyed it (even though it was tiring!) and in a strange way felt like I was coming home. (Though we left College for Levin about 7am on Saturday morning, which was an effort!)

Saturday we did practical hands on service ministry, painting the spouting and the caretakers shed at Taikoto School. God stopped the rain that was predicted, but the cold was most definitely present and we had to wipe dry everything with towels before we painted.

Then most of us girls (who weren't looking after the kiddlywinks) went off early to paint over some graffitti on the park side of the Army hall. I'm pleased to say I was the only one who didn't end up with paint in my hair!

Here's just some funny and gorgeous photos. From top left going clockwise: Rochelle; some of our kids at church Sunday morning; my cousin Joel napping; Cody and Naomi; Shelley, Tiko and Steve (strange lot those first years); and Suzanne singing.
During the morning service: The College kids helped me lead a song "Hip-hip-hip-hippopotamus"; the Levin music team; Tiko and me; the Head and Foot in the Dr Paul show.
"Gimme 5" (Our version of Hi-5); Steve Flinstone yawning; Simeon Batman; Kylie and me; Lachie on the bass; Naomes and Julie.
Susie; Tiko hanging from a tree; Me getting a hug from cousin Isaac; My billets and cousins Mikayla, Debra and Cassandra doing light reading in bed; Me and Kendal; Cousin Steph.

It was awesome weekend away and would write about it, but Monique is demanding my attention so maybe laters. Ciao.

Tiko a.k.a Dr Paul

2007-06-14T15:49:00.000+12:00

So this weekend we are heading to Levin for a Mission Weekend and in the Sunday morning service we have planned a drama, based on Dr Phil but called Dr Paul (as in Paul the apostle.)

After exhausting auditions, Tiko secured the role of Dr Paul and I couldn't help but show you some of the promotional photos we have taken!

Watch out at a centre near you for when Dr Paul goes on tour.

I had to mention, as Tiko pointed out to me, the tongues of fire resting on Tiko's head (Acts 2)

Peace that Transcends Understanding

2007-06-12T18:18:00.000+12:00

I've been sitting on the computer suite organising bits and pieces for the Mission Weekend this weekend in Levin and for my RE next week (Bible in Schools), Delirious is blaring out of the computer speaker and Tiko sings along every now and again from across the room ... and I am sitting here and I just realised how content I am with my life.

Not that life is quiet - quite the contrary and it only promises to get busier - but I have this underlying peace and contentment that I am exactly in the place I am meant to be, doing what I am meant to be doing, and just floating in this little place where my heart is completely enveloped in God's. And it sounds crazy but it feels like I'm resting against His chest and at this moment fully aware of His delight in me - like a little kid and her daddy.

It's good to be in this safe spot.

Keeping the Aquarium

2007-06-08T07:26:00.000+12:00

Annette has this on her blog and I thought it gave food for thought.

Dr. Kermit Long says, “With all our education, our fine buildings, our image of the church, we are doing less to win people to Christ than our unschooled forefathers did. We’re no longer fishers of men, but keepers of the aquarium, and we spend most of our time swiping fish from each other’s bowl.” — Christian Victory

Just to keep the copyright people happy the book that this is in if you can find the actual item is as follows:-

Tan, P. L. (1996, c1979). Encyclopedia of 7700 illustrations : A treasury of illustrations, anecdotes, facts and quotations for pastors, teachers and Christian workers. Garland TX: Bible Communications.

Mmmmhmmm.

2007-06-07T12:58:00.000+12:00

Slow Learner

2007-06-07T09:28:00.000+12:00

I've lived in Wellington now for 18 months and I am yet to learn that I don't need to spend an hour on my hair each morning, for by the time I have walked up to the main building, I arrive with a completely new style. Sigh.

The Visit of K, L and M

2007-06-05T07:53:00.000+12:00

So this past weekend (being a long weekend) I was privileged to have a visit from two of my best friends: Lucy and Kelly and Luce's fiancee Michael.

Kelly stayed with her aunt, who is one of the officers on staff here, and Lucy and Michael stayed with me. I will say it was really nice getting to know Michael better, and for the record he meets with my approval. I think he is a lovely guy and is perfectly matched for my dear Lucy M.

On the Sunday, Lucy and Michael were meant to meet me at Mana (my corps/church) but arrived sheepishly during a prayer 45 minutes into the meeting because they were VERY lost. (If you know Wellington, they were driving north from town, but missed the turnoff to Porirua and instead went to the Hutt. They could have gone over the Haywards but didn't realise you could, so turned around and ventured back into the city to try again. This is why you always have a map!)

We spent a bit of time trying to work out if they were to hyphen their surnames (once they were married) what they could be. Clement + Mollekin =
Clementollekin? Clemollekin? Clemollekinment? Molclementlekin? Mollement? Oh the options are endless! Lucy's settled for Clement but is still keeping Mollekin for her professional stuff (Lucia Designs - keep an eye out in dress stores near you!)

Lucy and I also had to share my double bed (Michael was in my single). Something we haven't done since we were much younger. I thought I touched Lucy's head so kept right to the very edge of the bed, only to later find what I thought was Luce was actually her tri-pillow (which took up most of the bed.

She also cracked me up in the morning - in absolute confusion as to why I was cuddled down right into my duvets when she was so hot she was nearly on top of them. In her words: she slept "on a hot plate." The investigation found that my very clever friend left her electric blanket on all night.

Anywhos, it was fab seeing them again and I look forward to seeing them in about a month during recess. (Haha - you can't get away from me that easily!)

Exercise - the Bane of my Life

2007-06-04T14:07:00.000+12:00

Within an hour, I will be at the foot of some mountain around here that Simon expects Stu and I to run up and down. I have tried every excuse in the book to get out of it, but Si is having none of it. Oh grrr.

I have a cut on my toe (I don't know exactly how that happened), I've burnt my thumb (hair straightener), I've prayed for rain (and believe it or not now the dark clouds have cleared up somewhat!), I offered to exercise in the gym here instead of going outside, and Shelley even offered to kidnap me. Sigh.

If I don't survive because my lungs exploded or my heart stopped or my legs collapsed (all three highly likelihoods, might I add!), please tell my parents that I love them and tell Matt he can have all my DVDs and CDs.

I am wondering why I agreed to this insanity.

Riding without Training Wheels

2007-06-02T16:41:00.001+12:00

I've just had another one of those moments. One of those snapshots in your lifetime when you shut the doors and prepare to take a step of faith into the great unknown. Like when Peter stepped out of the boat to walk out towards Jesus on the water. One of those moments when we must step out in faith in obedience to where God has called us.

I haven't felt quite like this since the day I told Colin and Roselynn I felt God was telling me that now was the time to apply for officership.

To give you a little more context, Robert (our Training Principal) had meetings with us (the 2nd years) regarding our thoughts etc about where God might want us to serve in our appointments next year, about our passions, gifts, abilities, past experiences, etc.

So I told Robert what was on my heart. And then last Sunday I heard God clear as day correct me. Dang. It wasn't that what I had told Robert was untrue, but that instead of riding the bike like God wanted me to, I added training wheels. (Just in case I needed them!) And God showed me that actually what I was doing was displaying my lack of faith in Him to use me in His work on Earth.

So ... after much trying to negotiate with God (which by the way is pointless!) I realised that He has never let me down in the past and actually the best moments of my life have been when I have been absolutely reckless in my faith in God.

So I just took the training wheels off my bike. I went and saw Robert and removed the conditions I had set on God's will for my life. I told Robert I was willing to do completely anything. And I trust God to sustain and maintain me as I strive to serve Him more and extend His Kingdom.

Cripey.

Though, I must confess, as scary as it is biking without training wheels, there is a freedom in my heart I can't explain. It will be interesting to see what unfolds next

Today's Answered Prayer

2007-05-31T15:17:00.000+12:00

So I'm in the shower this morning and my left eye contact lens disappeared into my eyelid after a messed up blink. I was determined not to lose it, considering it is my last one, and if it got lost, I would be back to wearing my glasses for goodness knows how long. (I'm holding out getting new glasses until after commissioning!) I tried to get the lens out on my own for about 8 minutes.

In the end, I prayed: "God, help. I need my contact to see - but don't let me lose it down the drain." I heard Him quickly respond: "Get out the shower."

With that, I turned it off and as my foot hit the bathmat, I blinked and the contact lens landed on my cheek. Literally. Coincidence? I think not. Isn't it great to know God is interested in the little things of life as well as the big ones? Big ups to the Man upstairs.

It's a Miracle!!

2007-05-26T11:13:00.000+12:00

So for the last 48 hours, give or take a couple, I have been more waddling, rather than walking due to my sore thigh muscles.

Today, I am pleased to report I feel somewhat (though I acknowledge minute in comparison) the joy that lame man must have felt when Jesus healed him. I CAN WALK! There's still a slight twinge in my thighs, but I am moving currently at twice the pace I was yesterday! Praise GOD!!

The Truth. Eeh.

2007-05-25T07:49:00.000+12:00

I hear ya, Brother Jay!

A lot can happen in 24 hours

2007-05-25T07:19:00.000+12:00

It has been an action filled 24 hours.

24 hours ago, I was just finishing doing my early morning lunges. Eeh. My muscles in my legs are making me achingly aware of their existence. I have tried to walk as normally as I can, but everyone at College was aware of my pain, despite my efforts. It's the sitting and getting up from sitting that is the worst.

I took the plasters off my cut yesterday. The general consensus has been, "Oh, that was deep." Hello! I've been saying that since I did it. It makes me wonder what it is about me that people don't believe when I say things. They have to see to believe. Sigh.

Then I went to the dentist. But at least my root canal is finally finished, albeit I am $480 poorer. (It's on my credit card, so donations would be appreciated.) I had a potentially embarrassing situation at the dentist when about 15-20 mins into it, the large amounts of water I had consumed throughout the day was ready for an escape. I had about another 45 mins of sitting in the dentist chair, praying that my bladder would be strong enough to hold it in. It was. Just. I got out of that chair and ran (well, waddled is probably more apt a description) to the receptionist who pointed the heavenly lavatory. Close call!

I got home and stopped in the drive for a quick chat to James who was leaving, and was instead ambushed by Kendal, Christina, Hannah and Naomi, who all made their way into my car. Then Reuben, Simeon, Cody and Patrick joined in. Thank goodness I have a wagon! Eventually the volume inside the car increased to the point it irritated me, so everyone was forced out. Then it happened.

While teaching Hannah to drive, she bunny-hopped (in my car) into the bushes around the flagpole area. Fortunately seatbelts were on, and as I realised what was happening, I grabbed the hand brake, so we didn't go as far in as we could have. Hannah got out and I reversed up, and suddenly the kids reappeared yelling, "Hannah crashed Corryn's car!!" I taught them the difference between a bunny hop and a crash and sent them home before they saw some scratches that weren't previously there. I've done worse myself, so I could see the funny side, but Hannah felt pretty bad, I think.

Then this morning my alarm went off at 5:45am. I thought about how nice my bed was, how sore my legs were, and whether or not Si would notice if I didn't show up. But I thought to myself how nice Si was being volunteering to get me into shape, and I didn't want to be the one letting down the deal. But it took a little longer to get ready - I couldn't quite bend down enough to reach my shoes! Anywho, he was easier on me today, which I fully appreciated, and I am starting to get movement in my legs again. Maybe by Monday I will be able to walk normally!!

The Elusive Word

2007-05-22T16:34:00.000+12:00

Anytime I am procrastinating I tend to blog, and today is no different. While officially I am 'working on my Gospel of John' assignment, unofficially ... well, you know what I'm really up to!

But I thought I'd give you a little laugh at my expense because I just said one of those things that make me wonder if my academic brilliance was a fluke!

I was talking about about my cut finger (poor Rinny!) to James and said something along the lines of, "Yeah, it's healing but it's gonna have ... like ... one of those things ... ummm ..."

James' helpful answer: "A scar?"

Oh my gosh. I must be working too hard! Time for a game of Spider Solitaire I say!!

Personal Trainer? Personal Slacker!

2007-05-22T11:23:00.000+12:00

So my alarm went off when it was still way too dark, but I jumped out of bed, put on my exercise gears and trodded up to the main building for my session with Si.

The building was in pitch black darkness. The annoying thing was I couldn't even get in to do my own thing because Simon or Tiko or Stu or someone has the key and don't usually open it until 7am. And it was too dark for me to feel safe enough to walk the streets of Upper Hutt by myself. So I went back to bed.

Simon the slacker. Apparently he set his alarm wrong and it went off at 6:45am. Sigh.

My very own Personal Trainer

2007-05-21T21:04:00.001+12:00

So yes. College have bought a treadmill and rowing machine. And I've bought myself new running shoes. The combination seemed inspiring.

And Simon has nominated himself to be my very own personal trainer. He's meeting me at the main building at 6am tomorrow morning for our first stint. (Yes, there is a 6 o'clock in the morning!) Oh, help.

Arty Farty at Pataka

2007-05-21T20:26:00.000+12:00

So after church yesterday, Rochelle and I went out with a couple from Mana Corps to a little cafe in Plimmerton for lunch. SSSSSOOOOOOO delicious and if I could remember the name, I would tell you so you could try it. We ate so much we nearly had to be rolled out, and the couple invited us to go to Pataka to look at an exhibition from a NZ artist William George Baker.

We went, and man I was so glad we did. I'm all arty farty inspired now to the point I even got out my paints and began a piece myself this afternoon!

Anywhos....Here's one of the biggest, and probably main attraction, of Baker's works. It's called 'The Lion' - not too sure why. It was huge. The funny thing is that I was telling Robert (our training principal) about the exhibition this morning and it turns out that our College owns it!! Ahaha. I wondered where the big painting from the foyer had disappeared to! It's in the exhibition!!

However, while I respect the huge amount of effort and time and money that would have gone into painting that huge thing, it's not really something I would spend money on personally. I just have different art tastes. But fortunately at Pataka, there was more than one exhibition on, so we meandered around. My favourite hobby being renaming the art pieces to whatever I would have called them had I done them. And, I admit, I think some of my ideas were better than the actual ones! (ahhhhh....so modest!)

This sculpture, by Judy Darragh, absolutely fascinated Rochelle and I. Yeah, so once again, something I wouldn't have in my house (only partly due to the fact it would take over half of my house - literally, it's huge!) but was incredible to look at. Yuo couldn't help but be drawn to it. Bottles, ping pong balls, records, styrofoamy stuff, paint, cork, felt, wool ... wow. She used just about anything and it was fascinating.

This top painting, Crash by Sara Hughes, was HUGE. (The colours are much brighter in person.) Rochelle absolutely loved it. I thought it was cool until I broke artist rule number one and went right up to it to have a close up look and felt sick. Literally. I'm not kidding.

While it's not the kind of stuff I do myself, I quite like the digital/modern/whatever you call it stuff. (Ok so I'm not an art student!) I haven't yet pinpointed what it is about them but there's something I find intriguing. This one below caught my attention. Episode 0015 by Kelcy Taratoa. (Actually I thought the artist's name was pretty cool too.)

Then there was all these mixed media pieces, which I inspected closely. I've never been able to do mixed media but if this arty inspired period of my life lasts long enough, maybe I will experiment again. We'll see.

So yeah, fun afternoon. If you are in the Porirua or greater Wellington area, I fully recommend checking it out. (And best of all, it's FREE!!) Go to the website link above to find out more details.

Ouch.

2007-05-18T19:55:00.001+12:00

I am typing much slower tonight. Because I look similar to that smurf on the right.

I did the dumbest thing at lunch time today. Trying to cut open a panini, the knife sliced through a decent way into my ring finger of my left hand. It literally was half a second before blood starting pumping out with each pump of my heart. Kaboom - blood. Kaboom - blood. You get the picture.

I grabbed the closest thing - a clean handtowel - and applied a lot of pressure. I turned the oven off and realised that I couldn't put a plaster on it because (1) I only have little kids ones and the wouldn't cut it on this occasion, and (2) I couldn't remove the pressure from the finger to grab a plaster without a teaspoon of blood coming out every second. (And I am NOT good with blood!)

I rushed up to the main building, where fortunately Jill fixed me up. I was a little worried when I saw blood seeping through and she suggested getting some sort of drink with a lot of sugar because I was shaking. So I spent the next hour on my couch applying pressure (just to help out) and drinking coke. Then I realised there was blood on the oven. Argh. So I cleaned it and chucked out the ruined panini.

The finger is still throbbing and, due to Jill's remarkable first aid, my finger is four times the size of the rest, but I think it's stopped bleeding. I think I may survive! Thanks, Jill. :)

Good Grief?

2007-05-17T10:05:00.000+12:00

I remember Shirlee starting a Bible Study with us back in Hamilton using a book called 'Good Grief'. The title sums up my week thus far. Though, even though I know it's 'good', it doesn't feel that way yet.

Annette, Jennifer and I went to Hutt Hospital yesterday to begin hospital visits (kind of a short stint at chaplaincy). I made it to the medical ward and it was everything in me to not run out. After a while I did excuse myself and head outside for air. It was just too similar to the ward where Uncle Bob died last year.

Uncle Bob and Nana both died nearly a year ago. We were expecting Nana, but not Bob. And me being me, has pretty much kept it all inside, trying to be brave, trying to be strong for the rest of the family, and trying to not look weak in front of the rest of the world. Bad move.

It took until the Christmas holidays (6 months) for Nana's death to hit me. And outside of just wishing she was here, I feel like I have accepted and pretty much adjusted to her not being here anymore. I feel like I have grieved healthily for Nana.

But until yesterday I had barely shed a tear over Uncle Bob. It's not that I didn't love him. It just didn't come out. And this morning at College Worship, I ended up at the mercy seat (down the front) bawling my poor eyes out. Over how sudden and unfair his death was, over the upheaval it has caused in Aunty Val's life, and the effects it had on my two cousins and their families. And how I miss him.

It doesn't help being told "Well, at least you know they are in Heaven with Jesus." Yeah, I do. But that doesn't stop the ache or the gap in your life now. It doesn't stop you wanting to scream "This sux!" So that is what I told God. Exactly what I felt and I had the sense of Him so close beside me, letting me know that was alright.

So now I'm in the computer suite, not really feeling up to the crowds at morning tea. My perfectly applied make-up has now all gone, but I feel so much better, like a weight has been lifted from my heart. And just a little bit of hope has been planted: that God won't judge my feelings, and that He will be with me throughout life - whatever happens. Maybe that is the good side of grief.

Oops, I did it again!

2007-05-16T21:11:00.000+12:00

I just came over to the main building quickly to check my emails etc., and for the FOURTH time in TWO weeks, I have locked myself out of my house.

D'oh!

Rochelle

2007-05-13T18:04:00.000+12:00

I took this photo of Rochelle this morning at Mana Corps (previously Paremata) where we are on Mission Placement each Sunday, and thought it was too good to keep to myself. Here, have a giggle at her expense:

What a legend.

Mother's Day 2007

2007-05-13T17:37:00.000+12:00

So Mum, Dad, Matt and Popa came down to Palmerston North for the weekend, being the first Mother's Day since Nana died, Mum wanted to spend it with Aunty Val (who funnily enough lives in Palmy.) Thus, I drove up Friday night and came home late Saturday night as I had to be at the Army down here for actual Mother's Day.

It was awesome getting away - something I really needed to do - and awesome catching up with everyone. I hadn't seen Popa since Christmas and he is looking a little older and frailer, though he is now 93.

We had a few good laughs, most of which I can't share on such a public forum. Anywho, here are some family snaps, including a fav of my bro Matt and my darling mum - the BEST mother in the world!!!

Matt and I try to have a nice photo but Mum pushed her head in between.
Unbeknownst to the other sibling, we were both licking Mum.
And when we realised what had happened, I cried from laughing so hard.
Clockwise from top left: Mum and Aunty Val with Popa (Just a little family resemblance!!); Dad with Christine and Mike's daughter Madeline; Popa and Aunty Val asleep (there's always someone!); My cousin Christine and her husband, Mike.

The trek to Spiritual Day

2007-05-10T09:23:00.000+12:00

So I just had one of those moments that you wish you had a camera to capture it on. Today is Spiritual Day (the joke being 'the only day we're spiritual'). Thus we get all decked out in full uniform and attend meetings, today being run by the TC. But that's not my story.

I get all in my uniform and check outside it's not raining before I venture up the road towards the main building. About three metres from my house, the rain turns to drizzle. Within a metre, it's raining.

I try to walk faster, which is near impossible in my stilletos. So I make the call. Either the shoes or the hair is going to go. The stillettos come off. In my little stocking feet, I begin to run up to the building.

I'm about half way when I remember this skirt is a little big for me when the gravtitational forces begin pulling it down.

Picture me, if you will, in stockings, holding my shoes/bible/bag/skirt up, running. Laughing as then my stockings start to come down.

Fortunately, I made it to the main building in time to re-adjust myself before the others arrive. Phew!

Photos of My Wellington Whanau 2007

2007-05-09T19:35:00.000+12:00

It's a pretty poor collage but here's some shots of all the cadets and their whanau on campus except for Ross and Jo, who live out at Kapiti. I'll get one of them eventually... Clockwise from top left: Rochelle, my Mission Placement buddy (hehe); Stu and Kylie with Kayla, Cody and Naomi; Kevin and Janette aka Janice; ME or as the rest of the known world knows me: Crinniebabes; Andrew with his boys Louie and Terry; Lachlan and Julie with Hannah and Ethan; Beth and Steve; Annette and Perry with Patrick, Emily Bemily and Christina; Sue and Si with Nique the Squeek and Kendalicious; and in the middle Shelley and Tiko with Simeon and Reuben aka Poo poo bum bum.

Malo e lelei!!

2007-05-07T10:14:00.000+12:00

So I have some good news to share that I realised I haven't yet ... guess where I am going for a week in our winter recess ... ah yup ... Tonga, aka the Friendly Islands. For various reasons, including my (hopefully) commissioning at the end of the year, Mum and Dad have shouted me a trip to Tonga for a week in July with my beautiful friends the Siufanga's.

I'll be travelling back with them and staying at their parents, Sila and Malia (click here, I googled them and this is what I found. Hard-workers for Jesus - woop woop!) Lol.

Anywho, I'm so excited. Hopefully my new passport arrived this week - my old one expires while in Tonga - and I am finally going to see the place the rest of my family have been to!! (Dad, Mum and Matt have all been with the Hamilton City band on trips in the past.) Actually more than anything else I am excited about experiencing a new culture and spending time with some of the godliest people I know.

Tiko told me I was saying 'Malo e lelei' wrong (but he's Fijian, so I'm telling myself it's his accent!) I hope I won't embarrass the Siufanga's too much with my poor skills. Rochelle and Sarah (who have both lived in Tonga for a time) have been trying to teach me some other words but my memory's so bad. Could be interesting. But listen to this email Natasha sent me when I told her (it made me laugh for ages):

"One of the greatest words you need to know is "tulou" pronounced "too-low"....as in when the english missionaries came to tonga and walked into our little village huts the doors were "too low' for them to walk through...so Tongans thought it meant "excuse me" cos they always walked in saying "too low" as they walked passed the tongans sitting down, so it means "excuse me" and when you say that you will be the best 'palangi' our family has seen...haha...just kidding... "

Haha.

Anywho...will update you on my adventures as they unfold. Wooooooooohooooooo!!

College Kids 2007

2007-05-02T18:57:00.000+12:00

I've never seen so many kids of so many backgrounds and ages get along so well as this year at College. (Albeit, there are some moments of tense standoffs and general playground arguments!) Thus, I had to do a little intro to show you the kids who have stolen our hearts, and most of the lollies from our houses- well, at least mine!

Above from left: Monique, Christina, Emily, Kendal and Patrick ... these are the kids of my session (God's Fellow Workers 06-07) and-

Below from left: Louie, Kayla, Hannah, Naomi, Ethan (in front), Simeon, Cody, Reuben and Terry ... the first year kids (Witnesses for Christ 07-08)

Plus there are three staff kids on campus: Tim (if you can really call him a kid!), Sarah and Kate. I don't have a photo of them, sorry.

Red Shield Appeal

2007-05-02T18:40:00.001+12:00

Love it or hate it, I just completed my stint at my 26th Red Shield Appeal. Over the years, I have had my share of excuses about why a person couldn't donate (I sometimes wonder if they realise it's not the end of the world and I'm not going to stalk them until they give.) I had a couple of good moments that I just had to share.

The first was a comment from a mother to her adolescent son, "Don't stare. We'll have to give them our change." An absolute classic.

And the second was a conversation with a guy who came out of the supermarket and it went along these lines:
Him: "Sorry, I have no money."
Me: "No worries."
Him: "It's okay cos I work for the Sallies."
Me: "Oh that's cool."
Him: "Well, I'm doing community service."
Me: "Okay." What am I meant to say next, I wonder.
Him: "And I have no money because I spent it all on beer." He motions to his supermarket purchase.
Me, as he hops on his bicycle to ride away: "Well, have a good evening."
Within in a minute he rides back. He forgot his helmet and doesn't want to be fined by the cops.
Strange conversation. I can't help but smile. God bless that man for lightening up my supermarket appeal stint.

I also met a man who worked for nearly a decade at the Training College, and two Catholic sisters who wouldn't stop raving about the Army, amongst others. Overall I thought it was a fairly quiet afternoon collecting. Then Simon and Stu came to relieve me and Lachlan, and with that it was done until 2008.

Some thoughts from the weird world of BCM

2007-05-01T14:03:00.000+12:00

So a few things have been said around the College that has made me smile, and in some cases laugh out loud, so I thought I'd share them...

Firstly...
In the middle of our Foundations for Mission class, Simon says: "I think-" "Isn't that incompatible?" interrupted Annette.

Secondly...
Last night I was babysitting Kendal (birthday in December) and Monique (birthday in September), when Kendal (aged 5 AND A HALF - can't get that wrong!!) came up to me and said, "Do you know what's funny? I'm older than Monique and I'm taller than Monique, but her birthday is before mine!" Then she started laughing uncontrollably. What the heck are Sue and Si feeding these kids!?!

And lastly...
I'm still seriously considering taking Kevin's advice about our Out-Training Assignment, due Friday. Part of it is a 3000 word reflection, which I am having a hard time focussing on. He suggested instead of writing an essay, I just hand in three photographs for ... a picture's worth a thousand words.

What would I do without my Dad!

2007-04-30T11:52:00.000+12:00

So I constantly am doing dumb things without thinking, but fortunately I manage to get my way out of them (at most times) without many people noticing. However, this weekend I had a near disaster when I woke up on Saturday morning to my kitchen sink full of water, nearly overflowing.

I tightened the tap so it stopped dripping (first oops!) then went to move that naughty dish that block the drainpipe. That's when I saw the result of my second oops - there was no dish or cup blocking the water's normal escape route. There must be something in the drain. D'oh. Last night I tipped a teeny weeny bit of fat down the drain.

I opened the kitchen window and spent the better part of the next 30 minutes getting as much of the water out of the sink as possible and then rang my genius father to see how I could fix it. Heck, if I told the males on campus of this current stupid move, I would be the butt of jokes for the rest of this week.

Lucky for me, Dad's suggestion of pouring boiling water down the drain worked (however was belated because I had to clean out confetti from INSIDE my jug - Grrr Annette) and my sink is now back in use. Thanks Daddy!

Sex God

2007-04-27T19:36:00.000+12:00

So, to some of you who know me rather well, you will know there is one topic that absolutely fascinates me: SEX. I've never really understood the secrecy and hush-hushness that Christians in particular foster regarding it. Probably because Mum and Dad were so open as I was growing up about the goodness of sex because God created it. (But I confess, yes, that there are moments I still do blush!)

And, let's face it, sex is a pretty big part of our culture. And I've always tried to promote that when sex is used for the purpose it was created - as God the Creator intended - it is AWESOME. So I hear. I can't really speak from experience, being a 26 year old virgin and all. (I laughed at a title I somehow adopted recently - the 'Virginal Sex Therapist'.)

Thus, my interest was peaked when Simon recommended a book to me called 'Sex God', written by Rob Bell (the guy behind the Nooma series and Velvet Elvis.) Within 24 hours, I had my own copy in my hands.

I have to say, the titles of the chapters alone fascinated me: 'God wears lipstick' and 'Leather, Whips and Fruit', not to mention 'Whoopee Forever.' Genius.

According to Zondervan (the publisher) here's what it is about:

"God and sex go together. You can’t separate the two, says Rob Bell, because this physical world is intimately linked to deeper spiritual realities. And so, in order to make sense of sexuality, at some point you have to talk about God. With beauty and unusual insight, Sex God explores this connection."

Need I say more? Seriously, this is one book that I have found it incredibly hard to put down. Rob Bell says it as it is, and in such easy to understand language. I only wish I had something like this years ago! Go get a copy for yourself and another for a mate! Great read.

Taupos 7s

2007-04-26T20:17:00.000+12:00

So Taupo 7s is an age old Army tradition, of at least over a decade anywho, held every Anzac Day, when Sallies from all over the North Island converge on Taupo for a day's games of Volleyball, Netball, Soccer and Touch Rugby.

This year was the biggest turn out yet, with 29 teams - and funnily enough a lot of people my age weren't even there. (If you're reading this: Shame on you! You missed a goody.) Particularly because this year, the weather broke with tradition and there was even BLUE skies!

Hamilton City (my old youth group) entered three teams this year, and funnily enough two of them faced each other in the competitive finals! But my current home team (Booth College of Mission aka BCM) were also fabulouso and got to the finals with Hastings, to whom we graciously lost. Anywho it was a loooong day (especially driving all the way to and from Wellington in one day!) but well worth it.

Tim (BCM) spins the ball like a pro.

Perry (BCM) shows his soccer skills.

James (BCM) takes a break on the touch ball.

Tiko (BCM) jumps to intercept the ball in the final against Hastings.

My little bro, Matt, (Ham City) dislocated his shoulder playing netball and made a short trip to Taupo Hospital. My old boys: Waka and Blair (Ham City) playing Touch.Tiko (BCM) naps in the van.
Albert (Ham City) struts his stuff playing Touch.
The Ham City Support crew watching someone play netball.
Simon (BCM) and Shar (Grandview but playing for Ham City)

inFLUenza

2007-04-23T16:53:00.000+12:00

You would think that after the amount of blood tests I have had, vaccine shots would be nothing. And while it is true that the actual needle thing holds little fear for me anymore, all the what ifs are still present.

What if they put it into the wrong place?
What if I develop some kind of allergy?
Does this nurse/doctor/needle person really know what s/he is doing?
AM I GOING TO DIE???

Okay, so I am taking it to the extremes (or in the words of Perry: HYPOCONDRIAC!) but ever since I went on medication for my epilepsy, I always wonder how any other medication will react with it, and yes, often the worst case scenario goes through my head.

But the grand thing of this influenza stabbing session was that Janine gave me one of those Sally Pop-Up cards (you NZers know what I mean!!) and it said:

"See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands..."
Isaiah 49:16

And that became my promise. Nice to know that I'm always on God's mind, eh?

P.S. It really wasn't all that bad. I'm known to exaggerate a tad. inFLUenza is bad. Get immunised.

The Tooth Update

2007-04-16T21:50:00.000+12:00

So I have just returned from the dentist. God bless him.

And the two dreaded words were uttered: Root canal. It appears that I had decay underneath the filling which caused the nerve to die and the filling to come out.

I am still wondering, however, if the nerve was dead, WHY DO ROOT CANALS HURT SO BAD?

Anywho as exciting as my evening was in the dentist chair, I can look forward to this one thing: I'm going back in two weeks for 'Phase 2'. Oh how blessed!

I'm currently doped up on nurofen as the anathesia has worn off, and am only moments away from swearing off sugary food forever! (Now that is serious!!)

Jew-a-neeeeeeeeeeta

2007-04-16T21:38:00.004+12:00

There was was a girl named Juanita
who liked to sit on a three seater.
She's red and black :P
But here's another fact:
I couldn't find many people sweeter. (AW!)

She's the CEO of Triple C
That is another fact for free)
She is funny and smart
and is God's work of art
And supports the Chiefs - whoopeeeeeee!!