Blogerhythm

Australia day failcake

2012-01-26T22:37:00.000+11:00

Not quite as pretty as I found on this site, but it was fun, albeit lots of work. My friends were very polite about it too. I only used packet mix cake, so if I made it again, I'd use a recipe that makes a denser cake so it doesn't crumble so much. The ganache needs to be thicker too. In retrospect, following the recipe properly would have been good. Maybe I should do that next time :p And not being in a rush helps too. Check out the food blog above, it features incredibly stunning creations. HERE. Really, you should look at the blog!

A story about a girl

2011-08-29T19:03:00.004+10:00

The sunset found her dancing on the beach before the LORD. Her hair shone gold in the sunlight and her arms stretched out with freedom.
"Why do you dance?" he asked.
"Every day is a dance before my LORD", she replied. "Everything I do is to make Him smile"

She watched the hills change from a smoky blue, to orange, and finally a musky pink, as the sun set behind her. Each minute brought new beauties and mysteries to these ancient hills.
She later thought of her own life through it's changes. Each day brought new beauties. Not better, not worse, but a different beauty to be appreciated for that time.

In this place she was free. Her insecurities were left in the city. She felt a freedom to sing, dance, and laugh. No longer was she plagued by her anxieties of this life. The peace, the warmth of the sun, and the sound of the waves did her well.

The songs she sang, she sang them out of tune, out of time, and she forgot the words. But she sang of God's greatness, majesty, love and power, which goes beyond the humble melody.

Every step along the beach brought new words, poems, reflections.
"This place makes me a poet", she thought.
But maybe it was that God had opened her eyes to see the beauty. From the peace in her heart sprung forth creativity.

"I'll write these words down", she thought, "all my poems and verse. So I can share this beauty with the world."
But deep down she knew that it didn't really matter. For all her words were for her Maker. She rejoiced in that moment, for she did not need to worry about the world. Her life was for her Maker, who walked with her along the beach; who danced with her, laughed with her, listened to her. A moment that even with the best of words, could not be recorded, only enjoyed in that moment.

Taking offense

2011-08-16T21:54:00.003+10:00

Apologies for the lack of specificity here. It wasn't a major encounter, and I don't want to explain the situation.

Just had a conversation with someone who seemed to want to take offense at the smallest misunderstandings and miscommunications. Everything, it seemed, was something to be upset at. Things weren't done the way this person expected, and this was an issue. Was this person in authority? No - an onlooker giving their opinion.

Indirectly, some of it picked away at my pride. Things I had been involved in, and took pride in. So I was already on edge.

I was upset for a while, having a grouch at my wimpering pride.
Do I need to be ashamed of my achievements?
Am I responsible for someone else's feelings?
Am I responsible for the fact that they took offense so easily at a minor misunderstanding?

Then I remembered our small group discussion a few weeks ago, when we discussed the dangers of taking offense too easily. And I realised that I myself was taking offense too easily at this person's critique. Yeah.. talk about a mirror to show my own state!
Do I need to work on forgiveness so I don't harbour resentment?
Am I playing the victim?
What do I gain by carrying offense? Self-righteousness? Yeah.. that's a good one to carry!

hmmm

A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.
Proverbs 19:11

Our small group leader recommended the book: Bait of Satan, by John Bevere. I think I need to give it a read!

Reflections on hospitality

2011-08-06T14:54:00.004+10:00

This post has been stewing for a while now, and only recently I was able to jot down some ideas on paper.

I was chatting about hospitality recently with some women at a weekend away. One of them told me her philosophy:
"We don't do 'entertaining', we do 'hospitality'"

This is very similar to one of my favourite proverbs:
Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred. Proverbs 15:17

I was recently visiting a friend's workplace. I was greeted with a hug, and was asked if I wanted a coffee. Sure, I replied. I was presented with a mug of instant coffee. I can't remember when I last drank instant - it is never a drink of choice, but I was struck by how it didn't matter - it was an expression of hospitality, making me feel welcome, delivered with a hug, and shared with friends. And this made it the most delicious coffee!

What is better? a fancy coffee in a cafe with people I don't like, or instant made by a friend? A fancy dinner out, or a bowl of soup with friends? Fancy teas, or a re-used tea bag? Expensive cocktails or cheap beer on the couch as we sit in our trakkies and ugg boots and laugh the night away?

Any day, I would prefer simple food with friends, over fancy food. I am reminded that the relationship is more important, rather than the food or drink that we share.

I am reminded to keep it simple, share with friends, and pour out love. That is the kind of hospitality I like. Community is where we listen, laugh, cry, pray, share, learn and love.

Massel 7's are no longer onion (or fructose) free

2011-07-12T12:15:00.003+10:00

Below is email correspondance between myself and a Massel sales rep. I have removed identifying details.

Long story cut short - Massel 7's stock now have onion, which puts them off the list for people with fructose malabsorption. If you have FM, or cook for people who do, then I would encourage you to contact Massel and register your support for them to revert to the old (onion-free) recipe.

Dear friends,

As the savvy chefs that you are, I'm sure you are already aware of these recent changes.

Massel have recently added onion to their Massel 7's. As you are aware, Massel 7's are one of the few stocks that don't have onion, so is suitable for people with FM. They are certainly my pantry staple, so that I always have some ready to use.

I have emailed Massel to clarify, and to encourage them to revert to the old (onion-free) recipe. I would encourage you to do likewise, as if there is enough public support, then there is a chance they will revert to their old recipe.

Onion is labelled on the newer packs, so you should be able to safely use up your older packets.

Below is my correspondance with one of the sales managers, who has been very helpful. You can leave feedback via the Massel website. You are welcome to use my wording if you like. And please feel free to forward this onto other friends if they would find it useful.

Cheers, Fi

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: F
Date: 12 July 2011 12:06
Subject: Re: Massel reply
To: M

Hi M,

Many thanks for clarifying the ingredients in Massel 7's.

Massel 7's have been recommended as a handy, affordable and readily available stock for people with fructose malabsorption (FM). This is an intolerance to foods containing high amounts of fructose due to impaired absorption in the small intestine. Onion is a problem food for people with FM, which makes finding stocks difficult. The addition of onion to Massel 7's means that people with FM will no longer be able to use this stock, and will need to look elsewhere. Can you please pass on feedback that I would support a change back to the old, onion-free recipe?

Regards, F

On 12 July 2011 11:45, wrote:

Hi F,

The inclusion of onion is a formulation change not a clarification.

Regards,

M

Sales and Marketing Manager

Massel Australia

From: F
Sent: Tuesday, 12 July 2011 10:44 AM
To: M
Subject: Re: Massel reply

Hi M,

Thanks for the reply. Is the inclusion of onion to Massel 7's a new addition, or a clarification of ingredients?

Regards, F

On 11 July 2011 11:36, wrote:

Hi F,
Thank you for your enquiry.
Unfortunately none of our stocks are onion free.
Thank you and best regards,
M

Sales and Marketing Manager
Massel Australia

-----Original Message-----
From: f
Sent: Sunday, 10 July 2011 9:52 PM
To: info
Subject: Enquiry from your website [Fio5263]

Dear Massel,

The following inquiry was made via the inquiry form on Massel.com.au site.

Name: F
Email:
Comments: Are any of your stocks onion-free?

Regards,
Your website inquiry form

Only 3 weeks late, but..

2011-06-30T23:25:00.003+10:00

Some friends recently had a baby boy. I'm hoping to make a few more pairs in the next little while for other friends - might try a different pattern next!

Cupcakes!

2011-06-14T20:14:00.003+10:00

A few of my recent baking adventures..

Crêpe Suzette

2011-06-14T19:57:00.003+10:00

I made Crêpe Suzette on Saturday for a French-themed fundraiser. Rather than using the recipe in my head, I tried the recipe in Larousse Gastronomique, the French encyclopedia.

Recipe worked well, although I ended up adding more water to make them thinner (maybe my oranges weren't as juicy as french ones?), and didn't add the alcohol. They were tasty, easy, and very French!

slutwalk

2011-05-28T10:48:00.003+10:00

Slutwalk in the news: The Age and ABC news

Rape is wrong. Let me say that to start.

What point were the organisers aiming to make?
From SlutWalk Toronto (where the movement originated):

"And whether dished out as a serious indictment of one’s character or merely as a flippant insult, the intent behind the word is always to wound, so we’re taking it back. “Slut” is being re-appropriated. We are tired of being oppressed by slut-shaming; of being judged by our sexuality and feeling unsafe as a result. Being in charge of our sexual lives should not mean that we are opening ourselves to an expectation of violence, regardless if we participate in sex for pleasure or work. No one should equate enjoying sex with attracting sexual assault."

I see two aims:
1. to reclaim the word 'slut', that it should not mean what the dictionary says
2. that rape is never ok, regardless of who the victim is

The SlutWalk movement came out of a comment by a policeman in Canada, who suggested that women not dress 'like sluts' to avoid being raped.

I posted a question about SlutWalk on my facebook page, have had a few discussions with friends, and have read some articles with comment responses (referenced above). Here are some comments and questions:
1 - if you communicate sexual availability (through the way you dress) but are not available or interested, is that manipulative?* Does it treat men with respect to convey one message by the way you dress, but another with your response?
2 - sexual desire is an innate and God-given gift (to be enjoyed in a marriage). This cannot be simply switched off. When women dress provocatively, they will arouse men's interest.
3 - why should we claim the word 'slut'? Why not the word 'woman'? Or 'sister'? Or 'beautiful'?
4 - why do women dress provocatively? Is the self-esteem so low among women that we feel we need to show everything in order to feel beautiful? Or attractive? Or successful? *
5 - do men also want to reclaim the word 'tool' because some men are labelled with it? *
6 - I don't want to claim the label 'slut' for myself simply because others have been labelled with it who didn't deserve or want it.
7 - women are raped regardless of what they wear. How does protesting in provocative clothes challenge this?
8 - we don't live in a perfect world. There are still broken men in the world who rape women. Therefore women still need to be careful how they dress. Protesting won't change things overnight.
9 - a woman who dresses provocatively must get really really cold. So much skin on show!
10 - will rapists change their behaviour now?
11 - maybe a woman dresses provocatively to impress a certain someone. Only problem is that it's not only the person you're trying to impress who sees, but also all the perverts and creeps. Do you really want perverts checking you out? eww
12 - suggesting that men rape because they see a provocatively dressed woman is also suggesting that men are animals who don't have any control over their actions
13 - no means no. Does this become grey when a woman's clothing and behaviour say yes?
14 - rape occurs not just to a pretty girl wearing not enough clothing. Rape also occurs to children, to older women, to men, from loved ones, from family members, the list goes on. It is a horrible thing.
15 - rape can also occur after consent has been given. One is able to withdraw consent at any point during intercourse. If the perpetrator continues after then, it can be considered rape.
16 - whilst rape is a horrible thing, it does not need to define your life or ruin your future
17 - there are a lot of great men in the world who would NEVER rape. I am very blessed to know many men who I respect, trust and love, and around whom I feel safe.

I'm still figuring this out. There's still a lot I don't understand. This is just a summary of thoughts and questions so far...
Maybe you disagree. Maybe I haven't explained well.
If I have offended, let me know.
If you have been raped, be strong and stand tall and don't be afraid to ask for help.

And feel free to come over for a cuppa tea if you want to talk or need a hug

* Many thanks to my eloquent friends who suggested the following thoughts and questions: (number refers to question above)
1 - BW
4 - HP
5 - BB

Every time I hear you laughing

2011-05-28T09:37:00.007+10:00

I was reminded of you
then I sang your song

I looked for you
but I couldn't find you

I felt helpless
so I prayed for you
and I wish you well
wherever you are

May God guide you
may God protect you
may God continue to call your name

May you draw near to Him
may you trust Him
may you grow in His grace
may you cherish the gospel

And a happy monday to you too!

2011-05-23T18:10:00.004+10:00

Ahh the melancholius wrench that engulfs my joy!

No really, I'm being a little snot at the moment. Sitting pretty in my insecurities, jealousy, worries, yearnings, dislikes, and self.
I find myself disgusted with ways I've reacted, spoken, thought. I see the worst of myself.

Time to delve deeper into God's word. Time to seek His heart, His will, His intimacy.

I both love and hate the whispers of "otherness". That there's greater things to do in this world. Communities filled with love and accountability. Veggie gardens. Fresh air. Hearts to listen to. Hearts to share God's love. Laughs to share. Hugs to share.
Hate? Because I lack the courage to step forth. I have difficulty trusting God. God's sovereignty and provision. I don't have the courage to step out of my current place in life and into the unknown.

Time to delve deeper into God's word. Time to seek His heart, His will, His intimacy.

The pain of separation

2011-05-08T20:59:00.003+10:00

This isn't a neat post, but stuff I've been thinking about.

Lots of my friends are having babies at the moment, so I've been reminded of a few things.

We are intrinsically hard-wired for relationships. We feel loss and pain when these are broken.

How do I see this? I see a baby who may not recognise much in the world: words, faces, sounds, smells. But they know, they *know* when they are not in Mum's arms. A baby may be happy to play with someone who isn't Mum (or Dad), but before long they realise that you are not Mum. And they let you know that!

Of course in time, a baby grows and learns independence. But it only recently occurred to me how innate the relationship thing is. We cannot separate ourselves from this need to be in relationships. In them* we find love, security, and trust.

Thinking about this helped me to reflect on my relationship with God. In God we have love, security and trust, and so much more. To break this relationship, to be without God would be unthinkably horrendous.

People differ on their interpretations on what hell is, what happens at the end of times. I don't know those answers, but I do know that it means separation from God. And if a baby who is separated from their Mum for a short time cries, wails, and is inconsolable, how much worse would hell be: eternal separation from God?

I don't ever want to be without God. I'm grateful for the gospel: for Jesus who died so that I can be in relationship with God. Without whom we would be separated from God. Forever. *shudder*

Sorry - not a cheerful post, but just my recent thoughts.

* ok by this I mean HEALTHY relationships. We know that unhealthy ones breed the opposite of trust, security and love. Also, our human relationships will fail as we let each other down. God's love never fails :)

Chicken Laksa!

2011-05-06T23:27:00.004+10:00

I made the chicken laksa from my new recipe book. Was very nice, but different from others I've tired in restaurants. Me and my friend found it really filling - neither of us could finish what we had. I liked making the laksa paste from scratch. Much more fun than out of a jar! More soups to come!

Mussels with fennel and white wine!

2011-05-06T18:40:00.003+10:00

I recently took a holiday. Holidays = friends, new recipes, lovely food, great wine!

Bad photo sorry - was taken on my mobile, and was before serving up. I went with a recipe in a mate's Jamie Oliver book. The recipe calls for mussles, white wine, fennel, onion, and other stuff. We served it on fresh spaghetti. And drank some lovely local wine with it too. And the mussels were local - from Eden, which is just up the coast from Lakes Entrance (where I bought them). I love that mussels are hands-on. Best to eat with good friends, as you're guaranteed to make a mess!

I love my Mum

2011-05-06T18:28:00.005+10:00

One Sunday I went over to my parent's place to make lunch while they were at church, before a big family lunch. The kitchen was full of notes like these. I love my Mum!

When I ran away

2011-05-06T18:23:00.006+10:00

A little while ago I was coming down with my second cold in as many weeks. I cleared the diary and ran away to my most favourite place in the world. I took with me the ingredients for a chicken soup and a bottle of wine which kept me going for the weekend. I was also able to raid the garden, which gave me lovely fresh tomatoes and basil. I found Mum-made sourdough bread as well, which is the greatest bread ever! By the end of the weekend I was all cured! Bliss!

Second best French onion soup EVER

2011-05-06T18:17:00.002+10:00

This was when I was in Tasmania. I was exploring Salamanca place, in Hobart. This soup was from a deli that sells lots of lovely goodies, like wine, bread, and of course soup! I also bought a bread roll that had the perfect amount of chewiness and freshness!

It was delicious and hearty. It's the second best one ever because my Mum makes the best one ever xox

Box Hill friends

2011-05-06T18:14:00.001+10:00

This cat lives up the road from me. He is very affectionate and tries to follow me home.

Flowers for your Friday

2011-05-06T16:09:00.005+10:00

I took these photos on my way to work a while ago. Thought I'd share them so you can appreciate pretty flowers :)

Book review - Soups and Breads by Jane Price

2011-05-06T15:56:00.004+10:00

I bought this one from a bookstall at work. It looked good because the soups were a bit different to the usual kind, and there were a lot of asian-style soups. The recipes are 'from scratch' ie no curry paste.

So far I've only made 1 soup from the book - chicken laksa. I've decided I'd rather post the book I found the recipe in, rather than the recipe.

Photos to come :)

This one I didn't delete

2011-05-01T21:53:00.003+10:00

Blegh.. wrote half a post, but deleted it, because it'll offend everyone

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
(Philippians 4:8)

In summary, I was reminded of this verse by some missionary friends. We all know it, but it has helped me to think through some stuff:

-the things I focus on in life (things I want vs being holy)
...am reading the psalms at the moment. Great for life perspective!

-the ways I can challenge friends to strive for holiness
...as Christians we can pat ourselves on the back for the things we do / don't do. But (at least for me), the mind is a challenge to bring to God.

-the things I look for in others
...yes I'd like to get married one day. This verse sets a high standard for what I look for in a guy.. does he 'think about such things'? It's not just about what we do / don't do (see above), but our thoughts as well. Sure there are other great passages, but I like this because it is practical and goes beyond the Jesus/Job checklist (a la Mark Driscoll)

A conversation about water

2011-04-10T22:18:00.004+10:00

You probably don't remember
but you asked me a question
and then we talked a little
and then we parted ways

But you showed concern and care for me
and I remembered that

I barely knew you then
but now I feel I know you more
because I saw your character
and I liked what I saw

I wish I could tell you
just how much that meant to me
but you probably think me silly
weird and immature

They're not really new years resolutions, but..

2011-04-01T20:16:00.005+11:00

Rather late, but maybe by now I have a better idea of how my life is turning out this year and places I'd like to go:

Bible - am now in the practice of reading my bible with brekky each morning. It's a good way to get a few chapters in before I head out the front door. Currently reading Nehemiah.

Exercise - enjoying more and more (yay!). Running in particular. Give me a shout if you'd like to join me for a run :)

Friends - last year I caught up with a huge range of friends throughout the year. This year I still hope to see all my fantastic friends, but am focussing more on a handful. This handful are friends who I try to see each week, or at least each fortnight. I've noticed that these core friendships are so much deeper, more satisfying, and with so much more accountability and honesty, than other relationships in the past. I still have a bunch of friends who I see each week, each fortnight, month etc and I still love catching up with them on a semi-regular basis. However these handful of friends are the ones who I can call if I haven't seen them in a week, invite myself over. I don't tire of seeing them. They love me, pray for me, and I reciprocate. I don't think I'm explaining it well. But I love them lots and I love seeing them often.

Growing up - last year was a year when I was challenged, broken, humbled. I prayed, cried and hid. This year I'm learning to pray, cry, and stand up strong.

Music - not listening to as much. But my soul is still moved when I hear beautiful melodies and harmonies.

Worship - I get a feeling at the end of a church service: "I could do this all day, night, week, forever". I ask myself why we must live in this world, work. I know the answer. But I look forward to heaven :)

Food - still learning new things in the kitchen. Still love cooking for you and making you feel loved and welcome.

Home - still settling, bit by bit. Will I ever be fully settled?

Love - ha! I love many. But not like that. I'm blessed with a great family of friends who are brothers and sisters to me.

God - still loves me *phew*

Your words

2011-03-31T20:11:00.001+11:00

Your words melted away my fear
I don't think you'll ever know
Just how much they meant
You brought a peace to my heart
my mind and soul
And settled my dreams
I rested well that night
After you spoke

Dumplings!

2011-03-24T22:18:00.003+11:00

So it's been 12 months that I've been here in Box Hill, and I've only JUST made dumplings! From my Neil Perry recipe book, Balance and Harmony.

Don Miller and his writings

2011-03-07T22:14:00.002+11:00

I've been following Don Miller's blog for a while now, which has included excerpts and reflections from his latest book, Million Miles:

Are you living a great story with your life? from Donald Miller on Vimeo.

Can be bought here

Disclaimer: by posting this I can *hopefully* get a free copy posted :)

But in all seriousness, I like Don's writings. I was given a copy of Blue Like Jazz many years ago. I have no idea where it is now, as it has changed hands many times over. I have bought copies of his other books to give away, as I have found them thought-provoking. I am looking forward to reading this one too.

Book Review: Salvation Creek and The House, by Susan Duncan

2010-11-30T20:21:00.003+11:00

These books were recommended to me by many people, and I finally got round to reading them.

Susan Duncan was a magazine editor, until she threw it all away to live in a remote part of NSW: a boat access-only community, where you know your neighbours and there's always a friend willing to lend a hand.

These books are beautifully written. It is so easy to get drawn into the stories, the meals, the laughter and the tears. They make you long for such community that we so often miss in our suburban, hectic lives. They make you long for a wander in the bush, for the beauty of the crisp morning, and for a meal of home grown vegetables, with friends around the table sharing a bottle of red.

I recommend you read these books. They make perfect summer reading, provided you are relaxed, eating well, drinking well and in good company!

Book Review: All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque

2010-11-30T19:59:00.005+11:00

I was given this book many years ago by a friend, but only now have read it properly.

This book is set in WWI and tells the story of a German soldier, Paul Baümer, who is on the front line in France. It tells of his day to day living; the laughter, the sickness, as well as reflections of a war not between soldiers but between enemies far from the front line. It doesn't hide from the brutality of war; of the waste of human life, the many many deaths, the disregard for life, the futility, and the fear.

It is a good read, but challenging.

100 things about me

2010-10-21T20:33:00.005+11:00

Em did one of these and now I'm inspired... Not gonna post this on fb.. a bit too self-indulgent. I've enjoyed thinking through some of these :)

1. Fiona Elizabeth. Elizabeth after my Mum.

2. 22nd March. Lots of other cool people share my birthday.

3. I just wrote the numbers 1-100 so I could plan how I write this.

4. I'm an introvert. I'm ok with this.

5. One day I’ll make a hoodie with FREE HUGS written across the front. I think more people need a hug and need to know that Jesus loves them.

6. I'm scared of seaweed. Not when it's on the beach. But when I'm swimming, and I put my legs down and discover I'm in the middle of a huge swamp of seaweed. That creeps me out.

7. As much as I enjoy work, and want to work, I also want to be a mum, and see that as a valid occupation. I don't talk about it much, as it can sound a bit anti-feminist.

8. I like cooking. Mum is a great cook, so my cooking skills came from her.

9. I like cooking on beach missions, as I love being part of the team, but don't like doing up-front stuff. I can also get my introvert time while in the kitchen.

10. I used to dye my hair, but I'm happy with my natural colour now.

11. I don't wear makeup much. I like that I'm in a workplace where I don't have to wear it.

12. I have a mortgage. I've realised this ties me down lots, as I can't just pack up and go somewhere. Some days this makes me happy. Some days it makes me sad.

13. I used to have the travel bug but now I don't. I feel a strong sense of wanting to stay in the one place for a while. Of finding and creating community, and committing to relationships (ie face to face, not just facebook). As much as I love traveling locally, I don't really like the idea of big overseas trips, which involve lots of money and little community. I think if I travel overseas again, it would be to see friends, or to settle in one place for an extended period of time.

14. I like lots of different types of music.

15. I wish I could play many different instruments, but I lack the discipline.

16. I speak a little bit of spanish and french. Again, I lack the discipline to learn them properly. My spanish is mainly limited to pub language and pick up lines. French is a bit more dignified, as it comes from what I learnt at school.

17. I like dancing even though I dance poorly.

18. My teenage years weren't the happy high school years the movies make them out to be.

19. I like hugs.

20. I like wearing scarves. It's like a security blanket for me.

21. I'm single. I am enjoying singleness and the opportunities it gives me to see lots of my friends. I still want to get married someday, but just not right now.

22. This year has been a big one for me. Lots of new challenges.

23. I never considered myself particularly clucky, until my cousin and his partner had a beautiful baby boy. Enter auntycousinfi. I love this kid so soo much.

24. I'd like to be fit enough to run lots.

25. I like swimming.

26. I love the beach and the country. I used to be a city person, but now I'm a bit older, the charm of the city has faded, and I love the quieter towns.

27. I like being able to make food that everyone can eat. I'm therefore learning how to cook gluten free, fructose free, dairy free, vegan etc etc

28. I used to do lots of firetwirling, but I didn't like the scene, so I stopped.

29. I have several piercings. Nose, and a few in the ears.

30. I don't have any tattoos. I don’t know if I’d ever get one, but I haven’t ruled it out entirely.

31. Sometimes being an adult scares me.

32. I'm a Christian.

33. I stop to wonder what the world would be like if people truly truly knew just how much God loved them. Not just in their minds, but in their hearts, so that it affected their thoughts, actions, words.

34. Turns out I'm good at making databases. This forms part of my job.

35. I'm currently thinking of all the things I WON'T post here.

36. When I was a kid I wanted to have long nails, but couldn't, because I was learning piano. Now I am allowed to have long nails, but don't like them. I find them too annoying.

37. I read nerdy comics such as PhD Comics, xkcd and STW.

38. I learnt to appreciate death metal when I had a Belgian housemate who played it at all hours of the morning. Did you know that those drummers are so good they can hit the bass drum in double time? Daga-daga-daga-daga-daga...

39. I bought a duck down doona before I moved house once, and it is one of my favourite things in my house. It was also ridiculously cheap, which makes it all the better. As a cold sleeper, I recommend it muchly.

40. I’m not a words person. I really struggle to have the right words to say and write.

41. That said, I enjoy writing.

42. I am more of a quality time, physical touch, gifts, and acts of service person.

43. I’m currently listening to a metal version of John Farnham’s “You’re the Voice”. Takes me back to speech night at school. Shudder. It even has bagpipes.

44. My first job was in a Christian cd shop. Best job ever. Pity I was too young to fully appreciate it.

45. If I ever visit your place, and comment how lovely the house is, and how big it is, I genuinely mean it. My place is tiny.

46. I love the movie Amy.

47. I met one of my neighbours this evening. He was nice.

48. I drink alcohol. I got funny looks from Christians at uni when I mentioned I’d been to a pub over the weekend. I only learnt at uni that many Christians don’t drink alcohol.

49. I have webbed toes. Mutant.

50. I like it when friends invite themselves over to my place.

51. I wonder if God is preparing me to have many sons. I often find myself cooking for, cleaning up after, or just hanging out with guys.

52. I don’t like movies or books or tv shows with supernatural characters, ideas, powers. I don’t see the point. Jesus trumps your power/wand/spell/coolness.

53. I don’t have a tv.

54. I don’t have a landline either. Very Gen Y.

55. I like recipe books, but rarely follow a recipe.

56. I used to know the names of many different Australian birds. I learnt lots from Dad on a big camping trip we did when I was in grade 4. I’m not very good at bird names now.

57. I want to learn how to cook proper asian food now that I live in Box Hill.

58. I love getting to concerts but hate paying big money for them. A free gig is a good gig.

59. When I was living in London, I worked in a bagel shop. Probably my second favourite job so far (see 44 for fave job). Still friends with some of that crew.

60. Ice cubes in novelty shapes make me smile.

61. I like fridge poetry and currently have some on my fridge.

62. Cups of tea are great.

63. Eggplant is probably my favourite vegetable. Closely followed by mushroom, pumpkin, sweet potato, zucchini.

64. Come to think of it, I don’t eat much meat.

65. If I could sit next to anyone on a long plane trip, it would be John Safran.

66. I don’t like most breakfast cereals. I find them too sweet. And Weetbix are too soggy. I usually settle on muesli, porridge or toast during the week, or pancakes, porridge or a cookup on the weekend.

67. Coffee is great too.

68. Oranges are my favourite fruit at the moment. I like that you have to stop what you’re doing so you can peel it apart. I always get to the final few pieces, then wish I had another one.

69. I recently re-discovered that I like mandarins.

70. Ornate gardens baffle me. If I had that much space for a garden, it would be full of herbs, veggies, fruit, and my favourite flowers.

71. I often read newspapers and magazines back-to-front. I start with an article I like, then flick my way back to the front page.

72. Shopping centres annoy me.

73. I like most colours.

74. Chai should only ever be made from scratch.

75. I have chai tea bags. Not as good as the real stuff.

76. God is everything. My comforter.

77. I don’t wear much jewelry. 2 rings and a few plain earrings.

78. Some days I feel like I haven’t accomplished anything or done all that I should, or been where I should. Except I then reflect and think of one person who I spoke to, or spent time with or gave something to, and I realise that I showed someone love. And it makes me content that one person knows they are loved.

79. I haven’t bought much stuff this year. Stuff. Good discipline. Helps me to see how consumeristic we are these days.

80. That said, there’s many books, cds, and stuffs that I’d love to buy. But I also realise that I’ve survived so far without them, so can probably last a bit longer.

81. This has taken me quite a while to write.

82. I’m really good at saying something I think is witty, but it coming out sounding stupid. Or offensive. Something I’m trying to work on this year. It usually means I’m more quiet. Good thing, really.

83. Thunderstorms freak me out. I know they shouldn’t, but they still do. I wish I could sit outside and watch. Don’t think I’ll ever be that fearless.

84. I’ve realised I fear many things.

85. I’m a light sleeper.

86. I’m used to sleeping in a big bed by myself. Friends have pointed out how much of a challenge marriage will be because of this.

87. Sometimes I wish I could see the big picture.

88. 1 Kings 3 has been a prayer of mine for a long time.

89. I don’t get poetry. Beautiful words have never grabbed me like the do others. I feel I’m missing out on so much.

90. I wish I could just absorb everything in the Bible and have knowledge. Bible knowledge comes from Bible study.

91. Arrogance annoys me.

92. I have so much to learn about love.

93. I dislike it when people pretend life is always easy. Or always fun.

94. I used to think I could breathe underwater. I can’t.

95. I love throwing parties. Having all my friends together and mingling and laughing is great.

96. Oftentimes, big things don’t phase me. Then little things will.

97. I’ll think of more interesting things to say once I post this :(

98. I’m enjoying reading more classic books. Jane Austen, Dostoyevsky.

99. I often wish I was more creative.

100. This took me several months to write

Why I like to cook

2010-10-21T20:08:00.003+11:00

Something I've been thinking a bit about lately. Here's some thoughts. Some relate to cooking at home, others to larger groups, others to camp cooking (beach missions etc).

1. I like food. Obvious, but I think it matters :)

2. People like food and need to eat. I like to be useful.

3. My parents have always been big on hospitality. They throw dinner parties when they can, and put a lot of thought into which friends they should invite to meet and converse with other friends. They even consider who should sit next to whom, to ensure good conversation. But even on the smaller scale, my folks enjoy their mealtimes. Sunday lunch, weeknight meals, saturday afternoon snacks. I learn a lot about hospitality from them, including their passion, and their willingness to invite others into their home.

4. I'm an introvert. I like being on beach mission teams, but don't like the up front stuff, dressing up, all that stuff. Being the cook means I can still be part of the team, but still get my introvert time as I do my thing in the kitchen.

5. I like making others feel at home. One way I try to do this is to make food people can eat and enjoy. Like gluten free. Or fructose free with no mushrooms.

6. It's in the bible. I know it's not my number one reason, but I think it's good to point out that so much of Jesus' ministry is around the dinner table. And there's a lot in the rest of the bible. Hospitality is a big theme.

7. It's where I enjoy being creative. I love buying recipe books, but rarely use them. I'm terrible at sticking to a recipe!

8. My friends are worth it :D

ok I thought I'd have more than that. Just a few thoughts that have been brewing for a while :)

Are you okay?

2010-10-07T20:13:00.003+11:00

Today is 'RUOK?' day
It is a day to promote wellbeing and minimise the risk of suicide, by asking someone "are you okay?". It aims to encourage conversation, sharing, and openness about how we (really) are. Of course this comes with the reciprocal acknowledgement of taking time to listen to the answer. It doesn't say "I can fix your problems", but shows that you care and that you are listening. When things go wrong, it can be easy to isolate oneself from friends. This further magnifies any problems, and doesn't help in the long run.

Today I sent a message to a number of friends, asking them how they are. Letting them know that I'm available if they ever need to chat, hang out, or need a hug. The responses I got ranged from happy and cruisy, to friends who are struggling through their day, to friends who needed a hug, to friends going through really tough times. It was a day when I wanted to be in so many different places (and countries) at once.

I saw today that the RUOK? day last year started 650 000+ conversations. They are hoping to double it today. I hope that days like this are an encouragement to all of us to look out for our friends, colleagues, and family, and to take the time to listen, care, love and hug.

On the surface our friends can be happy, confident and strong, but the inside story can be very different.

On that note, please give me a buzz if you want to chat, hang out or get a hug. I can't fix your problems, but I can listen.

FYI, Here are a number of websites and phone numbers from the RUOK? website:
Lifeline National
Kids Help Line
Mens Line National
Suicide Call Back Service
Salvation Army Hope Line (Suicide bereavement) 1300 HOPE LINE
Headspace
SuicideLine 24hrs 1300 651 251
Salvation Army Crisis Line (For crisis counseling & suicide prevention)

Places I like in Box Hill

2010-10-06T13:05:00.003+11:00

1. Chapel on Station gallery. At the back of the Baptist church, this is a lovely little art gallery, with a gift shop attached. The gallery features work by Christian artists (some of whom I have known), and all the pieces are reflective, thought-proving, spiritual, and full of emotion. I really enjoy dropping in when I can. Most pieces are for sale, and are very modestly priced.
The gift shop attached is full of home made crafts, at very reasonable prices. A great place to go if you want something unique and lovely.

2. Box Hill Community Arts Centre
I only dropped in here the other day, but have wanted to get there for a long time. This place has many short courses (mostly crafty things, but also music, dance etc), and also features artwork and function rooms. There is also a gift shop attached. Again, it is full of lovely and unique pieces made by local artists. These are all very modestly priced.

3. Chinatown.
Why not? It's great! Markets, bakeries, restaurants.

4. Box Hill Library
Never paid much attention to libraries in the past, but am now loving them. DVDs, books etc etc.

...I'll put some more up later :)
Any other suggestions?

update update update

2010-08-09T18:04:00.000+10:00

I neglect this thing too much.. News news news

Moving house. Box Hill 3128. Come visit
Kitchen. Lots of boxes. Lots of organisation ugh.
Friends. Yay!
Flowers. Yay!
I still can't play guitar. Should practice.
Coffee coffee coffee. Still can't froth milk as well as I'd like.
No shopping. The more I avoid shops, the more I hate em. Makes it awkward for all the 21sts coming up!
God. Is. Good.

Over and out.

Oh wait.. New blog. Guest posts welcome. I'll try and separate life from food.

Mussels in tomato and chili

2010-06-18T20:00:00.001+10:00

Mussels were $5/kg at the market the other day:

serves 2

Start by frying up one onion and several cloves of garlic in a good slosh of olive oil.
Add as much chili as you can handle.
Add a chopped up red capsicum and continue to fry.
Add a jar of passata. Or 2/3 of a jar should be good.
Add a potato, chopped into 1cm cubes.
Add some water and a stock cube.
When boiling, add 1kg of mussels
(to prepare, pull out the 'beard' and scrub with a scourer to remove dirt, barnacles etc)
Cook for 20-30 mins, until mussels have opened, and the soup is looking awesome.

Serve up into big soup bowls. Use the mussel shells as spoons. Yum yum.

Lest we forget

2010-04-25T05:06:00.001+10:00

Lest we forget those who made sacrifices in wartime for the freedom of Australia.
For those who lost their lives.
For those who lost limbs, or who were wounded.
For those left with emotional scars.
For the widows left behind.
So that we may live a life of freedom in Australia.
Lest we forget.

Lest we forget the one who made a sacrifice for the freedom of all people.
The one who sacrificed his life 2000 years ago on a cross on a hill.
So that we may be free from sin, death, and separation from God.
Lest we forget.

I deserve it..

2010-03-23T22:17:00.002+11:00

I've just finished painting on the top coat in my bathroom. As I'm washing up the paint brush and roller, I think to myself, "When I finish, I'm gonna grab a cold beer from the fridge; I deserve it after all that painting".

We do this everyday.
I've worked hard today, I deserve to buy a coffee
I've studied hard, I deserve a long lunch
I've had a tough year, I deserve a holiday
I deserve a new cd
etc....

I don't think rewards for hard work, or times of difficulty are wrong. It just gets me thinking:

What about those who are denied the freedom to such luxuries? To those who work long hours every day, without weekends, just to make ends meet for themselves and their family. What about those without the freedom to take holidays or leave the country? What about those in detention centres for fleeing their country? What about those who care for those with disabilities every day, and are not able to leave the side of those they care for? Do they deserve our luxuries just as much, or more?

This isn't a political post. Just a few things that I've been thinking of. What we perceive we deserve is very subjective.

The other thing I think of when I tell myself that I deserve something, is that before God, none of us deserve anything.

Psalm 103:10
...he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities

Because of our sin, we all fall short before God. We all deserve eternal separation from God. But we do not get what we deserve. Jesus took what we deserved when he died on the cross. This means that we can be in relationship with God.

So each time I think that I deserve something, I'm reminded of Jesus, who saved us from what we deserved.

And yes, I'm drinking a beer, because I tell myself I deserve it.

Banana sorbet

2010-01-18T21:51:00.002+11:00

Vegan, gluten free, dairy free, even fructose free

mmmmm

REALLY difficult. Really.

By the way this wasn't my idea.

This is a collection of blogs all about vegetarian and vegan cooking. A few authors have posted the recipe, so I decided to try it.
I would try and acknowledge the original authors, except the page isn't loading right now. But check out VegMel. Its good.

1. Throw some bananas in the freezer. I do this with ones that are almost too old to eat, but I don't wanna throw away.
2. When frozen, put bananas in food processor.
3. Press play
4. Eat

In more detail, it takes a lil bit for the bananas to turn into sorbet. Patience. And it helps to have a good food processor.
Mum's trick from childhood days was to chop bananas and roll them in coconut and freeze them, as a summer snack. That's what I made my sorbet from. Coconut and banana.

If you wanted to do a big batch, you should probably add some orange or lemon juice, to stop the banana from browning. Or you could add coconut. Or chocolate. Or other stuff for flavour.

But it's kinda difficult to make a healthier sorbet. And it tastes good.

New Years' Resolutions

2010-01-04T20:33:00.000+11:00

1. To cook from scratch more. This involves time. So I hope to have more of both. Things I would like to cook include: good asian food (moving to box hill soon), good gluten free stuff, and good vegan stuff.

2. To make more time for friendships/relationships. Too many people are on a list of "people I should catch up with more". I aim to shorten this list by making time for more friends.

3. To start swing dancing. Has been on my list for a while. Should get to some classes!

4. To read my Bible more.

5. To read more classic books. Not twi-rubbish.

What are yours?

5 1/2 day weekend? .. ok (If I HAVE to) ...

2009-11-03T21:10:00.000+11:00

I feel the need to capture the awesomeness of the weekend that was:

Thursday I left the office early to take the bus to Fish Creek, where Mum picked me up. Dinner that night was 7 gill shark with homegrown silverbeet, beetroot, broad beans, and then some couscous. Delicious! Strawberries for dessert mmmm

Friday was a trip into Foster to do the shopping for the rest of the weekend. Late lunch of toast (home made bread) and pate and salad. Tough life eh? Friday evening a friend of Mum's came down and we cooked squid ink linguini with mussels and ling fish in a fennel and white wine sauce.

Saturday was more stuff (walks on beach etc etc), and a concert in the evening with wine and nibbles and cheese. The music was from a quartet from Melbourne. It was at the Celia Rosser gallery. That night me, the siblings and Jo stayed in the new house.

Sunday we did a house brekky, and then me Will and Jo went into Foster to the market. We ate yummy gluten free crepes and gluten free biscuits. So yummy!!! Then we went to one of the local wineries for a jazz afternoon with more wine and cheese. mmmmmmmm Such a relaxed afternoon, with everyone hanging out.. Yay! Dinner was bbq'd lamb that Will marinated in yummy herbs. Delicious!

Monday we did a big brunch at the new house to bless the place. Champagne, pancakes, muffins, bacon, eggs, mushrooms... Then went for a walk to one of the galleries in Sandy Point. Then tea with some people, then next door to celebrate the neighbour's birthday. Then we did a LONG walk on the beach with the dog. She slept well that night. Then Will and Jo made gluten free pizza and pumpkin pie for dinner. More yum! Huge storm that night. Lots of lightning. Tuesday was brekky then visit to local jeweller and sculptor then lunch at Mum's then home.

HUGE weekend! Never stopped much, but was lots of fun!!!

Mostly felt the need to chronicle all the yummy food we had...

It seems lots of people are doing update blogs.. Here's another

2009-03-11T21:53:00.000+11:00

I haven't written in a long time. Here's bit of my life in dot point form:

-Moving house. 10 days ago and I still haven't had time to unpack.

-Catching up with friends. Not just the ones that you see each week, but the ones you see once a year. But still great friends. Especially loving chatting with friends who are a bit 'older'. And learning from them about life.

-Forgiveness. I came to the realisation after some prayer ministry a few weeks ago that there's someone I need to forgive. Complicated by the fact that I don't believe they are sorry, and they are continuing to hurt themselves by their ways. Forgiveness means letting go of the resentment, no longer holding that hurt accountable to that person. But it doesn't mean that what they did was right. More on this another day.

-Making new friends. Many from beach mission.

-Learning that sometimes I'm more introverted than extroverted. This has happened a few times lately.

RIP Ben

2008-12-08T19:07:00.001+11:00

Cancer

2008-11-20T07:56:00.001+11:00

Wednesday 19th November, 11pm-ish

I’m writing this at home so I can put this on my usb and take it to work to post on my blog tomorrow (Thursday) morning. I don’t have internet at home, and have been meaning to blog in response to Liz and Steve’s comments in the past few days. However, only having internet at work makes it a bit more difficult to blog. I printed out Liz’s blog, and the comments after it so I can read properly in my own time. I also printed off the John Piper essay “Don’t Waste Your Cancer” so I can read and comment. This will end up being a long blog, but I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep tonight until I get most of this out!

Below should be the link to Liz's blog (can you tell I'm not experienced in this?!)

And this should be the John Piper essay:

All these thoughts come from a few recent events. Previously, cancer wasn’t very real in my life. However, in the past few months, it has become much more close to heart. Firstly, B, a guy about my age, was diagnosed with NK cell lymphoma (one of the more serious types of cancer) and is currently in hospital a lot, and is really quite unwell. Secondly, M, a 15 year old female, was recently diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and is undergoing treatment. The reality of cancer has hit home much more vividly lately due to these 2 beautiful and young people being diagnosed with a disease that I only ever associated with “older” people. Not to say that these are the first 2 people I know who have ever had cancer..

This has got me thinking about how God fits into cancer. Or maybe to rephrase, how cancer fits into God. I don’t have the answers, but feel like I need to get some thoughts out… Funnily enough, I see sick people at work every day. However it seems that it is only when it hits close to home that I start to question God. I should also mention that these thoughts and questions, whilst intended for the topic of cancer right now, are probably applicable to many different conditions, since they generally relate to the topic of God and illness.

This evening I let my bible study group on Psalm 139. This is the one that quotes “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Ps139 v 14, NIV). Whilst this verse is very empowering for someone battling with body image, or wanting to appreciate God’s beautiful creation in nature, this verse didn’t sit easy with me in the context of cancer. Whilst I have every knowledge that B and M are fearfully and wonderfully made, I don’t believe that their cancer is “wonderfully made”.

On the whole, there are not ample passages in the bible about health-related suffering. There is plenty to do with suffering for being a Christian, but not for ill health.

So in response to the John Piper essay. It may be petty, but I don’t like the tone of voice in the essay. The essay intellectualises cancer, whereas the reality is that it is not only a physical disease, but also affects the patient and their family (and friends etc) emotionally. This essay does nothing to comfort those who are distressed, upset, mourning, confused or emotional from cancer and treatment and everything thrown into the mix. I also have issue with the terms used. Whilst they are probably there for shock value, I don’t see how thinking about “wasting cancer” (and therefore to cherish it??) is being sensitive to those who have cancer.

His first point (You will waste your cancer if you do not believe it is designed for you by God) I disagree with. To start with the book of Genesis, when God created the world, Adam and Eve were healthy. It was only after sin entered the world, that sickness did too (starting with pain during child bearing). I do not believe that God intended people to get sick when he created the world. I agree with what Steve said in Liz’s blog, that the Job passage is taken out of context. The story of Job is how God stands back and allows Satan limited time to try and pull Job away from God. Besides (and here I admit I haven’t read Job for a while), the “friends” of Job told him that his illnesses and poor fortune (ie bankruptcy) were because of sin (“is not your wickedness great? Are not your sins endless? … That is why snares are all around you…” etc Job chapter 22 v 5, 10), and that they were from God, and that he should curse God. When in actual fact, it was Satan throwing these things his way. This first point makes it sound like cancer is some fancy gift that we should be grateful to God for. That is rubbish. Whilst the Job passage is helpful in learning more about God, I don’t believe it is applicable in every situation of ill-health (ie the confrontation between God and Satan).

Point 2 (You will waste your cancer if you believe it is a curse and not a gift). Disagree. “But we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who trust in him” [VERSE]. If God is sovereign, (which he is), then he can use all situations to bring glory and honour to him. There is no situation, regardless of its origin, where God cannot exert his power and dominion. This does not mean that he created cancer and gave it to us as a gift. It may not be a “curse”, however I do not believe it is a gift.

Point 3. (You will waste your cancer if you seek comfort from your odds rather than from God). Indifferent. True that it’s important to trust God. However, I hadn’t really thought about survival odds in this scenario. I’m more reflecting on the fact that cancer is here in the first place.

Point 4. (You will waste your cancer if you refuse to think about death). Agree with the explanations. Yes our days here are numbered, and illness can remind us of how great heaven will be when there is no more suffering.

Point 5. (You will waste your cancer if you think that “beating” cancer means staying alive rather than cherishing Christ). I don’t see the battle as being between cancer and God. The battle always was between God and Satan. God kicked Satan’s butt when he died on the cross for our sins then came back to life 3 days later. When we choose God, we kick Satan in the balls. Maybe cancer and the possibility of an impeding death are some of the enzymes along the biochemical path of our life that forces us forwards in the chemical equation to make a decision. Bad analogy, but it’s just gone midnight. Basically, cancer and death are just one of many settings in which we make the decision of God or Satan.
Besides, it is healthy to doubt God. Most Christians would admit to times in their life when they haven’t “cherished” God. This does not make them non-Christian. Doubt is healthy, so long as it encourages you to further your understanding about God.

Point 6. (You will waste your cancer if you spend too much time reading about cancer and not enough time reading about God). I woulda thought that these two topics go hand in hand. Sure you don’t want to be ignorant to God and only read about cancer. But neither do you want to be naïve to cancer and only read about God.

The rest of the points I agree with to some extent. It is also getting late and this blog is getting long, so I’m running out of mental energy to debate every line.
In general, I agree with the idea that through trials and sickness, we should be deepening our relationship with God, and learning to trust him more. However my main disagreeal is that it is directly from God. I don’t have a black and white answer as to WHY we have sicknesses and cancer, but I wouldn’t classify it as a gift. I also don’t think it would bring answers or comfort to someone (or their family) processing the implications of cancer. I certainly wouldn’t want to be told not to “waste my cancer”. Insensitive.
A friend’s mum passed away a few years ago from cancer. She left behind 4 amazing children. How sad for them to be missing out on a relationship with their Mum. For the sadness that comes as they get married without their Mum to see their special day. I remember her speaking at her son’s 21st. Her talk was not about how not to “waste” cancer. It was about staying hopeful and joyful in these times. Having said that, I read an article by someone from my church currently battling cancer who struggled with being joyful during these times, and that it wasn’t just a case of being joyful by ignoring the facts of a serious condition. I learnt that there are many responses to this kind of suffering, and that everyone deals with it differently.

Stepping aside from the JP essay (apologies if I don’t manage to link it to my blog) and any intellectual argument, I find it so frustrating that these two young people are having to deal with such big issues. I wish I could take away any uncertainty that M is facing and take it on myself, so that she can go into treatment with confidence. Having said, that, I have no idea how she is going with it all. Maybe she is feeling more assured right now. And likewise, I wish I could switch places with B in hospital. So I can spend some days hooked up and on strong meds so that he can go and enjoy some of this top notch Melbourne weather and enjoy being a normal, energetic guy.

I think I’ll wind it up here. It’s 12.49am. As I’ve gone back over this and added more stuff in, I’m aware that I’m becoming less logical and coherent as the minutes pass by. I also wonder why I couldn’t write this fast 12 months ago when I was doing my thesis…

Northern Suburbs.. aka Stacey and Fi's big adventure

2008-10-26T16:02:00.000+11:00

So today we found a double bed futon base and a perfectly good lamp out for hard rubbish. Awesomeness! The house is pretty much fully set up. All we need now is some housemates. Preferably nice ones.

And thanks to parentals, I now have a nice chopping board, a lamp, an outdoor chair, the start of a herb garden, and cake! Yippee!!

Now I'm back at my parents' collecting more stuff to take back home.

I'd write more, but this computer is really really slow!!
Ciao!

Packing..

2008-10-14T22:34:00.000+11:00

The Big Move is saturday. My room is full of boxes. And there's still a long way to go.

Ultimately I need to get rid of lots of stuff. Clothes, random stuff, and books need to be sorted through and packed into boxes before saturday. This involves boxes marked op-shop, bin and then all the keeping stuff. Of the stuff I keep, I figure I can sell some on ebay, or drop it off at a local op-shop later. Its just a HUGE task right now.

The easy thing to do is to pack what I want into boxes and take that to the new house. Then come and clean out the rest later. However the Big Clean has to happen sometime.. sometime..

sick

2008-10-08T09:07:00.003+11:00

Being sick sucks. 2nd day on the couch. Only got myself enough dvds for 1 day.

Hurrah for fb and gmail on my mobile. Makes emailing from the couch so much easier.

Take 2

2008-09-30T18:01:00.000+10:00

Having found several friends' blogs and subscribed has encouraged me to give this thing a bit more effort.

But then deciding what to write about without just chronicling the tedious parts of my life is another challenge.

A few things thats new in my life these days...

-deciding to move out, finding a house, and buying furniture

-deciding about work for 2009

.. tbc...

The first blog

2008-09-13T16:20:00.000+10:00

Of things come and gone. Of things still to come.

Every act, every thought, every smile and laugh.

Learning not to waste the opportunities and open doors placed in front of us. But having the wisdom to walk away when that moment is called upon. Learning to move on from past grievences and to forgive those who hurt us. These are a few things that we face in life.

God give me your eyes to see things your way.

God give me your wisdom to understand what I see.

God give me the heart to feel things your way.