Guy Fawkes

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

Lucy and Michael's Wedding

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

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!

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...

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!

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...