The Ju

Stop Trying

2011-05-16T08:37:00.001-07:00

Barney was really moany and clingy all day yesterday, begging for "mummy-cuggle" and trying desperately to be on my lap. The funny thing was, he had been on my lap for most of the day, but even while he was seated there, he was begging and trying to get even closer, asking for "mummy-cuggle" and trying to get where he already was; on my lap.

I was telling my husband this and he started laughing and said what a great picture it was of so many believers. It really is the perfect description of what so many of us spend so much of our lives begging and striving for.

So many of our prayers, songs, fasts and meetings are about getting closer, getting on Daddy's lap, having more of Him, feeling His presence, drawing near; when the truth is, we're already as near as we could ever be! We already have more than we could ever need!

We need to understand that what Jesus has done for us is totally and utterly complete. There is nothing we can add to it. He's not given us a little and is waiting to pour out the greater portion as soon as we pray right or do right. We can't earn any more than He's already given us. His work is complete. We can't add to it by prayer or striving or serving.

We don't need to contend for anything:

Ephesians 1:3

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.

We don't need to strive for more of Him in us or beg to be closer to Him than we already are:

Galations 2:20

For I have been crucified with Christ and it's no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.

So just enjoy being on Daddy's lap. Stop striving to be where you already are, who you already or are gifted with what you already have. Enjoy the fullness He has already given you and rejoice that there is nothing more you can add to His perfect, beautiful salvation.

Oh and read Romans. It blows my mind!

Glory!

I'm terrible at this

2011-02-02T08:24:00.000-08:00

It would seem that I'm an unforgivable inconsistent blogger. It's simply because I forget. And to be honest, there are many activities vying for my time. I guess blogging isn't at the top of my list. It's helped that I have no audience, so no pressure from people begging to read my admittedly dull ramblings.

Today I've been thinking about just how much has changed for us since we moved to Chester. For me personally, I certainly feel I'm a better housewife than I knew I could be. Keeping the house clean and the fridge stocked is harder work than I thought it could be, especially with a wee man snapping at my heels. But being in Chetser, we seem to have gotten into more of a rhythm than we ever have before. Having dinner ready in time for Rob getting back from work means it's early enough for Barney to eat with us. I take pleasure in cooking food that's hearty and wholesome and nutritious and the ingredients of which don't read like a science experiment. Always having baked goods on hand is nice too, helps me have a rhythm about my week and provides Barney with healthy snacks. Not to mention it saves money! I think I've been inspired by people like Jamie Oliver, who are so passionate about good food. He's quite convicting. Big love.

I have space and room to think here too. Where we used to live, I felt like my brain was furry. I couldn't think, meditate, perculate ideas. Maybe that's a spiritual thing. I certainly have a freedom spiritually here to minister effectively and use my gifts in an increasing amount. Maybe that's spilled over into my ability to think and consider.

One thing I love about my husband is how we chew stuff over together, really grapple with a concept. We usually arrive at the same conclusion, which rarely is actually a conclusion. More a state of what feels "right" but with the knowledge that the Holy Spirit might show us more at any given time. I think we're in trouble as soon as we think we understand or fully know something. We must remain teachable. We can never, ever fully know the distant reaches of our huge, huge God. We could explore His ways forever and still have more to learn.

Lately I've been dwelling on a few particular issues.. they're kinda ideas that need germinating and saturating with Word and Spirit in order to grow and bear fruit. Things I might speak on in the future..

Jesus is our perfect theology.. too often people preach the gospel based on their experience rather than based on the gospels. Ha ha. How many times have you heard it said, "God sometimes heals. Sometimes He doesn't". I understand why people say this. Because it's their experience. But their experience cannot form their theology or worse yet, the theology of those they are teaching. Actually, Jesus healed... everyone. Jesus heals. He is our perfect theology. Instead of lining up our theology with our theology, we need to start lining up our experiences with our theology.. and our theology? Jesus is our perfect theology.

Also I've been thinking about how we can so unthinkingly consume what we're fed, even if it's actually scripturally unsubstanciated. Worse yet, not only do we absorb this tripe, but we propound it, preach it and hang on to it for dear life. We tell people earnestly these things that are "true" but have no truth. We need to start looking at scriptures honestly. Actually read what is there instead what we've been told is there. Read the words, not the religious subtext we've absorbed and have started to view the scriptures though. I've a bunch of examples. Jesus' home, the husband being the head (of what?), tithing (ooh er! controversy!). It's scary how little we think. How readily we eat junk. And then try and pass it off as our own. Time to wake up.

Something else I've been pondering is about hurts and experiences in our lives. I feel like an acid test of whether you've walked out Roman 8v28 is how you talk about a situation, person, or time in your life. If you having nothing good to say about the person or situation who hurt you, if you still speak about it with bitterness, it seems that you've not yet overcome, had the victory and been healed in that area. You've also not yet enjoyed the truth of Romans 8v28. You see, Jesus on the cross suffered, was in pain, was at the lowest, most betrayed point of His life. He saw that situation through. He dies to it. And Hallelujah, He rose again. And with His resurrection He took authority over death! We need to stay on that cross, die to that situation, go through that pain and allow the resurrection to happen, emotionally speaking.

Hmm.. these are all vague notions of some many hours of thinking.. But here's as good a place as any to note them.. I'll carry on brewing and maybe make something of them some time.

Opinions

2011-02-02T08:23:00.002-08:00

The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever

Isaiah 40:8

But the word of the Lord stands forever

1 Peter 1:25

Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens

Psalm 119:89

I can be so precious about my opinions. About having them heard, agreed with and respected. Truth is though, no matter how passionate, aggressive or assertive I am about them, no matter how right I think I am, when I die, my opinions will go with me. They won't last. They mean nothing.

But the Word of the Lord stands forever.

I guess thinking about it, I'd rather be wrapped up in His word than my own opinions.

2011-02-02T08:23:00.001-08:00

Skyman came to the door..

Skyman: This isn't a trick question, everyone always thinks it's a trick question. Have you got a tv?

Me: No

Skyman: Right, well, what I can do for you is.. No it's not a trick question, have you got a tv?

Me: No

Skyman: Right, well, what I can do for you is.. you don't have a tv?

Me: No

Skyman: Right, well, do you have phone and internet?

Me: Yes

Skyman: Right, well, what I can do for you is phone, internet and tv. Are you gonna get a tv?

Me: No

Skyman: *Fiddles nervously with pen

Me: *Looks bemused

Skyman: Woops, that's my pen, I'll just go and pick that up

Me: *Trying not to giggle

Skyman: Well I can do phone, internet and tv..

Me: We don't want a tv

Skyman: Are you happy with your current service?

Me: We don't have a tv

Skyman: Right, well, what I can do is phone, internet and tv for you

Me: We don't want a tv

And so on and so forth.

Chester: an update

2011-02-02T08:22:00.001-08:00

We moved to Chester (!) on 11 September. That was weird! Rob and I kept getting hit with waves of realisation and excitement during the drive up here. They never seemed to be in synch though, I'd be crying behind the wheel while he'd be smiling and saying "wow!" And then excitement would over-take my sadness just as he'd get a bit emotional. It was such an odd thing driving up here knowing it was final. And were it not for family, friends and the sea it would have been entirely a joyous experience! I am thankful though that I have so many people to miss. The distance is painful, but I'd rather that than have no-one to miss!

We got the keys to our house on 15 September, so we've been here for almost two months. It seems like a lifetime, in many ways. God's goodness to us since arriving has been entirely in keeping with the way He led us to come here.. utterly extravagant!

A few examples..

Shortly after we moved in, on 3 consecutive days, we received the following:

1. £250 as a "thank you" from our mortgage provider

2. A luxury hamper as a "thank you" from our mortgage provider

3. £280 as a "thank you" from our mortgage provider

We were expecting none of this, but it really blessed us as it covered the unpaid weeks we had between Rob leaving his old job and starting his new.

In addition to this, we started to decorate our living room (deep red, dark pink and magnolia, FYI) and decided that in time we'd save up and get a big chunky gold framed mirror to hang over our fire place, an old fashioned red rug for our floor and a nice gold picture frame for a painting of Christ that Rob did a few years ago. These items are pretty pricey, so we figured it'd be a way off. But we found a big chunky gold framed mirror in the house we've just bought. We also found a gold picture frame in the house. And finally, believe it or not, Rob found rolled up in the back of one of our sheds an old fashioned red rug!

It's utterly outrageous. It's not blessings or provision we need. It's luxury stuff. It's almost like God just showing off! Wanting to make the point, as if He hadn't made it clear enough already, that He just loves to bless His kids.

He surely is an abundant God!

Rob is loving his job and his boss seems delighted to have him there. Rob gets to do a lot of repairs on old antique pieces, as well remaking, restoring and redesigning unsaleable bits of jewellery. He loves how creative it is. He's also had a real favour on his work too, he has found himself working way beyond his years and experience and his skills have just sky-rocketed as a goldsmith. God has been good to him and I am so delighted to see him so happy.

It's been hard as well though, especially I think for me, as Rob goes out to work each day and leaves me and Barney. I felt quite isolated for the first month, trying to straighten out our home with no family on hand. It's hard. And I miss my mum and my sister something bad. BUT I know we are where we are meant to be and that is the best feeling. Ever.

The greatest thing has been our new church. There is so much going on. Since we've been here, I've prayed with about 10 people who have given their lives to the Lord, I've prayed with at least that many again who have been healed of lumps, trapped nerves, pains, sickness etc etc. God is moving and it's wonderful!

Rob and Aliss are simply amazing friends and leaders and we are so happy to be here alongside them. We've started a home group, Rob's been playing his vile-din, guitar and drums a whole lot, which he enjoys and I've been mentoring a lovely local girl, which is a real gift. I've been working for GloryFires too on our soon to be launched online bookstore.

So, in short, we are all 3 of us are still alive! And most definitely happy and healthy. We really appreciate all the prayers and good wishes that have been extended to us. And we would LOVE to have visitors, so if you want to visit historic Chester, let me know!

Oh and a word for people reading this who might be WAITING for breakthrough or direction.. It's never without a purpose. God works ALL things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes. Our move up here got off to such a flying start in June.. but then unexpectedly, it started to d.r.a.g on. I mean, it really slowed up. We got seriously frustrated. However, Rob's work were really patient and all we could do was wait. So I prayed the time wouldn't be wasted. And do you know, it wasn't! Had we stayed on schedule and moved sooner, I would have missed having a visit with a beautiful old work friend just a few days before we moved and I wouldn't have had the sheer joy and privilidge of introducing her to Jesus! God used our waiting to bring another soul into His kingdom.. so if you find yourself waiting in life, just ask God to make the most of it. He'll have good plans for that time, He doesn't miss an opportunity to bless and work things together for good.

Ju xxx

How we came to be in Chester

2011-02-02T08:21:00.002-08:00

July 2010

We have some wonderful friends, Rob and Aliss Cresswell, who I was at ministry school with at MorningStar. Since graduating, they have planted a church and a cafe and a bookshop where they have people getting saved and healed every day. Their ministry is amazing and they are witnessing dozens and dozens of miracles every month. They have also just become the first MorningStar church outside of the USA.

Last autumn, for various reasons, Bertie and I felt that God would be moving us on and that we needed to really start seeking Him very intentionally about where He wanted us. Several trusted friends gave us prophetic words and said we should take time out from our local church and others suggested we go and see Aliss and Rob. So we went and visited them for a few days and had a great stay in Chester. We felt very at home in Chester and significantly were able to move and minister in our gifts there very freely.

Our trip home was really awful, we had road works, diversions, traffic, the car broke down, I had anyphalactic shock from a banana (which I'm not allergic to and when Bertie rebuked the allergic reaction in Jesus name it just stopped), torrential rain and finally a very scary

near accident.

We got home (at nearly 5am after 7+ hours of driving) wondering why our trip had attracted so much attack. We started wondering if maybe we were meant to be in Blacon.

In January we stopped regularly attending our church and instead spent Sunday's just enjoying God as a family, seeking Him and visiting other churches. The first message we heard at a the first church we visited in this period was on Belonging. It really resonated with me, the speaker spoke on how belonging wasn't just about being somewhere you wanted to be, but somewhere that you were wanted.

Well, we felt it right to visit Chester again and went up last Tuesday. We had been seeking God for direction for another 6 months now and were desperate just to hear from Him where we were to be. We didn't care where He wanted us, we just wanted to be in His will. We felt strongly that this trip would be decisive for us, we would know we either would or wouldn't be moving to Blacon.

Bertie is a goldsmith/diamond setter. It's a very niched job and we knew that God would use employment as a firm indicator for us that we should move. Outside of Birmingham, London and Brighton there is little work for setters. Most places are retail only and send work off to be done in one of the main jewellery centres. Well, day one in Chester and a jewellery shop offers Bettie a job. They have a vacant workshop. They want to fit it out and have him work for them. They haven't seen his CV or work, they have no idea how capable he is, they just want him. Miracle number one! They say that are willing to do whatever is needed to make it possible for him to move up and work for him. They'll pay whatever salary is needed and even drive down and pick stuff up for us. Insane!

I am sure you are familiar with how mental house prices are here in Brighton. Even rental prices it's like £1000 for a house to rent per month. And 60k will buy you a car parking space in Brighton, minimum 100k for a studio. We are totally unable to buy here. In fact renting is so crazy that we had to move house 4 times in our first 3 years of marriage. We are desperate to stay somewhere and put down roots and make our own home. Well, we visited a mortgage advisor in Blacon and he didn't laugh at us! We can afford a mortgage! Miracle number two! So we viewed 7 houses and found "The One".

So, we can afford a mortgage, but we have no deposit! So we go to Rob and Aliss' church on Sunday... Now this brings us back full circle to where we started, about belonging being where you are wanted. This church is mall, like 40-50 people. In a really seriously deprived area. The people there do not know us from Adam and they take up an offering for us to help our costs to move up. I was just crying, talk about being wanted! And this little body of believers gave us an offering that covers nearly all of the deposit we need.. Seriously mindblowing. Miracle number three!

We put in an offer on 'our' house, for 10k less than the asking price. It's an offer which needs the vendor to pay 5% of our deposit, and we will pay the other 5% (thank you church!). The vendor declined so we up our offer by a ridiculous £500 and after initially declining again, we got a call the next day to say she'd accepted! Insane! Miracle number four!

The following morning we found that Bertie's job wouldn't be paying quite enough to afford us the mortgage we need. Within an hour I was offered a part time job doing something that really excites me which I can doe from home and the wage covers exactly our shortfall for the mortgage. Miracle number five!

The mortgage we need has now been agreed in principle, hallelujah! However it was dependant on Bertie starting work before the funds would be agreed and released, meaning we'd need to be in Chester with nowhere to live. Miracle number six, our mortgage advisor has advised with much bemusement that the mortgage provider will overlook this and will confirm the mortgage before he starts work. Please everyone pray for Steven the mortgage advisor who should really get saved as a result of all this madness!

The favour of God on this is tangible and ginormous and I am sure we will rack up a lot more miracles before the move date.

We still have a lot of hoops to jump through, but we are totally expecting the unexpected now and totally trusitng God is gonna provide!

Please do pray for us, we have a lot of needs yet, but God is good, all the time, God is good!

Our dear friend Ryan sent us this a few weeks ago.. gotta love a bit of prophetic input!

Soap

2011-02-02T08:21:00.001-08:00

The following letters are taken from an actual incident between a London hotel and one of its guests. The Hotel ended up submitting the letters to the London Sunday Times!

Dear Maid,

Please do not leave any more of those little bars of soap in my bathroom since I have brought my own bath-sized Dial. Please remove the six unopened little bars from the shelf under the medicine chest and another three in the shower soap dish. They are in my way.

Thank you,
S. Berman
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Room 635,

I am not your regular maid. She will be back tomorrow, Thursday, from her day off. I took the 3 hotel soaps out of the shower soap dish as you requested. The 6 bars on your shelf I took out of your way and put on top of your Kleenex dispenser in case you should change your mind. This leaves only the 3 bars I left today which my instructions from the management is to leave 3 soaps daily. I hope this is satisfactory.

Kathy,
Relief Maid
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Maid - I hope you are my regular maid.

Apparently Kathy did not tell you about my note to her concerning the little bars of soap. When I got back to my room this evening I found you had added 3 little Camays to the shelf under my medicine cabinet. I am going to be here in the hotel for two weeks and have brought my own bath-size Dial so I won’t need those 6 little Camays which are on the shelf. They are in my way when shaving, brushing teeth, etc. Please remove them.

S. Berman
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mr. Berman,

My day off was last Wed. so the relief maid left 3 hotel soaps which we are instructed by the management. I took the 6 soaps which were in your way on the shelf and put them in the soap dish where your Dial was. I put the Dial in the medicine cabinet for your convenience. I didn’t remove the 3 complimentary soaps which are always placed inside the medicine cabinet for all new check-ins and which you did not object to when you checked in last Monday. Please let me know if I can of further assistance.

Your regular maid,
Dotty
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mr. Berman,

The assistant manager, Mr. Kensedder, informed me this morning that you called him last evening and said you were unhappy with your maid service. I have assigned a new girl to your room. I hope you will accept my apologies for any past inconvenience. If you have any future complaints please contact me so I can give it my personal attention. Call extension 1108 between 8AM and 5PM. Thank you.

Elaine Carmen
Housekeeper
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Miss Carmen,

It is impossible to contact you by phone since I leave the hotel for business at 7:45 AM and don’t get back before 5:30 or 6PM. That’s the reason I called Mr. Kensedder last night. You were already off duty. I only asked Mr. Kensedder if he could do anything about those little bars of soap. The new maid you assigned me must have thought I was a new check-in today, since she left another 3 bars of hotel soap in my medicine cabinet along with her regular delivery of 3 bars on the bath-room shelf. In just 5 days here I have accumulated 24 little bars of soap. Why are you doing this to me?

S. Berman
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mr. Berman,

Your maid, Kathy, has been instructed to stop delivering soap to your room and remove the extra soaps. If I can be of further assistance, please call extension 1108 between 8AM and 5PM.Thank you,

Elaine Carmen,
Housekeeper
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mr. Kensedder,

My bath-size Dial is missing. Every bar of soap was taken from my room including my own bath-size Dial. I came in late last night and had to call the bellhop to bring me 4 little Cashmere Bouquets.

S. Berman
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mr. Berman,

I have informed our housekeeper, Elaine Carmen, of your soap problem. I cannot understand why there was no soap in your room since our maids are instructed to leave 3 bars of soap each time they service a room. The situation will be rectified immediately. Please accept my apologies for the inconvenience.

Martin L. Kensedder
Assistant Manager
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mrs. Carmen,

Who the hell left 54 little bars of Camay in my room? I came in last night and found 54 little bars of soap. I don’t want 54 little bars of Camay. I want my one damn bar of bath-size Dial. Do you realize I have 54 bars of soap in here. All I want is my bath size Dial. Please give me back my bath-size Dial.

S. Berman
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mr. Berman,

You complained of too much soap in your room so I had them removed. Then you complained to Mr. Kensedder that all your soap was missing so I personally returned them. The 24 Camays which had been taken and the 3 Camays you are supposed to receive daily. I don’t know anything about the 4 Cashmere Bouquets. Obviously your maid, Kathy, did not know I had returned your soaps so she also brought 24 Camays plus the 3 daily Camays. I don’t know where you got the idea this hotel issues bath-size Dial. I was able to locate some bath-size Ivory which I left in your room.

Elaine Carmen
Housekeeper
———————————————————————————————–
Dear Mrs. Carmen,

Just a short note to bring you up-to-date on my latest soap inventory. As of today I possess:

* On the shelf under medicine cabinet - 18 Camay in 4 stacks of 4 and 1 stack of 2.
* On the Kleenex dispenser - 11 Camay in 2 stacks of 4 and 1 stack of 3.
* On the bedroom dresser - 1 stack of 3 Cashmere Bouquet, - 1 stack of 4 hotel-size Ivory, and 8 Camay in 2 stacks of 4.
* Inside the medicine cabinet - 14 Camay in 3 stacks of 4 and 1 stack of 2.
* In the shower soap dish - 6 Camay, very moist.
* On the northeast corner of tub - 1 Cashmere Bouquet, slightly used.
* On the northwest corner of tub - 6 Camays in 2 stacks of 3.

Please ask Kathy when she services my room to make sure the stacks are neatly piled and dusted. Also, please advise her that stacks of more than 4 have a tendency to tip. May I suggest that my bedroom window sill is not in use and will make an excellent spot for future soap deliveries. One more item, I have purchased another bar of bath-sized Dial which I am keeping in the hotel vault in order to avoid further misunderstandings.

Bouncy chair

2009-09-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

Sometime before Barnabas was born, we were given a bouncy chair, which was gratefully received.

We noted that it had a compartment for a battery and wondered what it did. Did it make music, flash lights, jiggle and wriggle?

We wondered for sometime, but never had a C battery to find out.

Months came and went, still we didn't know what it did because we didn't have a battery.

Finally, Barney was born and we popped him in it a few times, but we still didn't have a battery, so we still didn't know what the chair would do when it had a little power.

Barney didn't really seem to like the chair, so I finally remembered to buy some batteries to settle my curiosity and see if he'd like it when it had battery power.

7 weeks after he was born and at least 5 months after we were given the chair, we found out what it's actual purpose was.

We put the batteries in and were expecting a light and music extravaganza. But all it did was vibrate.

It seemed like somewhat of an anti climax.

But do you know what? Barney loved it once it had batteries in it. He is quite happy in his vibrating chair and if he's sleepy, it puts him to sleep.

You could say, it's exactly what he needed.

What's my point?

When we're not charged, moving in God's power, we can't give people what they really need. All we can offer without Him is paltry. It won't satisfy and it won't be what people need.

When we do start to move in His power, what people may need may not seem all that grand or all that special to you. But God knows what people need, if we are willing to move in His power and boldly prophecy, share and pray for the lost, He will give them what they need and what they need may well be the most simple thing..

My labour story..

2009-08-04T10:30:00.000-07:00

My labour story..

My waters broke 4am Wednesday morning, 08 July 2009, and a midwife came to visit that same day to check me over. She advised that most women go into labour within 24 hours of their waters breaking. Those that don't will do so by 48 hours. If the labour doesn't start naturally by 48 hours its unlikely to at all, but we could wait till 96 hours before they'd want to induce me.

Nothing happened on Wednesday, despite a long walk and spicy food! Thursday the same so we arranged to be be induced at hospital at 11 Friday morning, Then Thursday evening, I started getting contractions every 5 minutes at 7pm. These went on till 3 .30am and I thought we wouldn't be needing to be induced after all. Then they just stopped. So in the morning we went to hospital, but by this point I was pretty tired already as I'd been up all night having contractions.

We got to hospital at 11 am Friday 10 July 2009 and were told to go to level 12 which is where they keep women before and after delivering. They said there was no room for me on level 13, the delivery ward as they were having an influx of emergencies. (Brighton hospital has a special care unit and deals with a lot of special deliveries outside of London). So we waited and at 2pm they finally gave me a pessary and said that it would take 8 hours to work and probably wouldn't work at all, that I'd need another one after 8 hours and a third 8 hours after that. Apparently I'm quite sensative though, as within 3 hours I was having 3 contractions every 8 minutes. I was ready to go to level 13 to deliver, though I'd need to hormone drip to help labour fully establish.

However there were still no rooms in the delivery ward as they were still experiencing a lot of emergency cases. So I had to wait. At 8pm visiting hours were over and they wanted my husband to leave! (The delivery ward doesn't have visiting hours, but the maternity ward does). I asked if I should be in a delivery room and they said yes. So I said since they'd induced me and got me to the point of having 3 contractions every 8 minutes and given that I should be upstairs delivering, my husband was not subject to visiting rules, so they turned a blind eye and let him stay the night with me. My contractions carried on..

On Saturday 11 July 2009 the midwives were feeling so sorry for me that I was stuck in this indefinate labour, they found me a private room and were so kind to me, but they couldn't change the fact that there were all these crazy emergencies and I couldn't go upstairs to deliver. All I wanted was some gas and air but there was none on our level and I guess it was all in use upstairs! At this point the contractions were hideous because baby had turned back to back and the pain was insane. I lay on a bed kneeling with my face down and my backside in the air for 2 hours to try and ease off the contractions becuase I was just so exhausted!

Finally at 5pm on Saturday after 24 hours or so of these contractions and being stuck on a monitor, I was moved upstairs to the delivery ward! I was freaking out though because they told me I hadn't dialated at all and I was so exhauseted and tired. I was scared that 24 hours of labour had achieved nothing and with no energy reserves I was going to have to go through it all again starting from scratch!

It turns out all those contractions hadn't been wasted though as the baby had turned back the right way round,, good news.

They put me on the hormone drip at 7.30pm 11 July 2009 and by 10.30pm I was 3 cm dialated. I was pleased, but also a bit nervous that I'd have another 7 hours of labouring before being fully dialted. I didn't realise though that Bertie was praying for me dialate really quickly! Pretty much straight away my contractions got insanely bad and I was begging for an epidural. The anaesthatist was in theatre with an emergency delivery though so I had to wait. It was so horrific though, that I thought the pain might actually kill me! Poor Bertie was having to take like my whole body weight with each contraction. He was so amazing and encouraging and strong for me.. it is the most amazing bonding between husband and wife. I was sucking on the gas and air at this point like nobodies business, that stuff is great! At 11.30pm I told my midwife I needed to start pushing and she chuckled and said 'sorry love you were only 3cm an hour ago, we've got a way to go yet' but I was insistent so she examined me and said I was 9.5cm dialated and yes I almost needed to start pushing!

The guy turned up at this point to give me an epidural, which of course I didn't need, the reason the contractions had been so immense was because I was busy dialating 7cm in an hour and transitioning! So I did end up doing it all gas and air which i was pleased about as I hadn't wanted an epi..

So I started pushing (which I think is the worst part of labour, didn't enjoy that!) and at 1.29am Sunday 12 July 2009 Barnabas Joshua popped out! It was the most awesome thing when his head came out, which hurt, and then this teeny tiny body popped out slipperly like a fish, it felt so good 'cause it was instantly complete and done! And nice that the very last bit delivering his body didn't hurt an ounce.

Then they did the amazing cool injection and the placenta just immediately came out ('cause I'd had an assisted labour I had to have an assisted 3rd stage too, but I was fine with that, way beyond it at that point!

So all in all, once I got there the labour was only 6 hours, just unfortunate that I had the delay at the start. And of course that I couldn't go into labour naturally.

Thankfully it didn't end up being a home birth as he came out with his fist by his head and I had 3rd degree tears and had to go into theatre to be stitched up by a surgeon, rather than by a midwife under local anasthtic. I had to have a spinal block, which to be fair was a way cool experience being in theatre! (very greys anatomy!)

I didn't enjoy the internal exam that determined that I had vaginal, perenial and rectal tearing though!!! Kept on the gas and air for that and was so grateful for the spinal block in the OR!!!

The amazing thing about labour is how uninhibited it makes you! And I tell people about it now, where as I would have never used to have talked about such intimate things. I guess you become proud of what God has carried you though. Labour is SO empowering and fulfilling. I always wondered why mum's share their labour stories and now I understand. it's amazing!

Isaiah 41 10 kept me going, as well as the psalm which says 'I lift my eyes up to the heavens, where does my help come from? My help comes from you, maker of all things, creator of the Earth'. That and the gas and air and my husband.

Friday, August 24, 2007 - Jokes what I wrote

2008-08-29T11:15:00.002-07:00

Jokes what I wrote

Zoo jokes

A man goes to a zoo. All that is there is a dog. It was a shitzu.

A man goes to a zoo. All that is there is some empty crisp packets and an empty can of coke. It was a rubbish zoo.

A man goes to a zoo. All that is there some empty crisp packets and an empty can of coke, all covered in blood. It was a bloody rubbish zoo.

A man goes to a zoo. All that was there was a woman wearing a jet pack landing int he fountain. It was a zoo-land-her.

A man goes to a zoo. All that was there was a toilet. It was a zoo-loo.

A man goes to a zoo. All that was there was a pair of hands doing a chopping action. It was a hcop-zoo-ey.

A man goes to a zoo. All that is there is a tesco's. It was a zoo-permarket.

A man goes to a zoo. All that is there is a man in a cape. It was a zoo-perman.

A man goes to a zoo. All that is there is a very large weight playing a guitar. It was a zoo-tonne.

A man goes to a zoo. All that is there is a bulbous little car in a cage. it was a ka-zoo.

Sunday, August 12, 2007 - Surprised

2008-08-29T11:15:00.001-07:00

Surprised

God. Changes. Things.

He shakes up the stagnant, breathes life into the stale, blows wind on the still plains, shouts into the silent void.

He. Changes. Things.

Tonight I feel changed. Renewed. Faithful. Destined.

I feel surprised by this, like a sudden romance. Caught off guard by feelings I already knew, but had forgotten about. And it's strange. I didn't ask for it. I wasn't pleading for a revival, though God knew my barren land needed one. He came in and stole my heart. Revived me. An awakening.

A thief who stole my heart, but left me with such hope, such purpose, such a burning sense of absolute faith. I feel changed.

But then, I am changed, for behold the old has passed away and a new thing has come. I am not my own, I am not alone, I am not who I once was, but a new creation.

We understand so little.. Ju x x x

Sunday, March 04, 2007 - Run run run

2008-08-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

Run run run

Bertie and I have started jogging. Or is it yogging? Maybe it's a silent j. Anyhow, its strange how once you have the tools, you just want to do the job. I went out and bought these 'running shoes' ( I thought trainers we just for fashion ) they are so light and springy and just owning them made me want to be out sprinting around. Last night we yogged a few miles. I had to walk some, I am ever so out of shape. We went again tonight but it was tipping it down with rain so we only went as far as the bottom of our road.

Last night we ran along the beach, I was enjoying His beautiful creation. He truly is a wonderful God. I am keen to run as I want an activity to share with my husband, who can run for a year and not lose his breath. I also want to take care of my body, which I haven't done so much before, as it is a living temple for the Most High God.

Now I have the tools, the shoes, I just want to run run run. And this is overflowing into other areas of my life. I know I have the tools to run the race for Christ and be a radical Christian. We all have the tools, The Holy Spirit, His word, faith and time. We have the tools to live lives that have eternal consequences. We can speak into the lives of the lost, give shelter to the needy, feed the starving and heal the sick, by the power of the Blood.

I want to be known for integrity. I also want to be known for being ruthless and one who will not compromise. I want to be radical with my faith and love others as He has loved me. I want to take in the homeless and bless them and love them. I want to throw caution to the wind, the wisdom of this world that says not to trust, not to take risks, not to be vulnerable. I want to be like Jesus. Let people into my home, my heart and know that they may well let me down, steal or abuse, but love them none the less. I want to be like the one that my heart loves.

He loves me so much, it makes my breath catch in my throat. He loves me, adores me. He gives me purpose, hope, help, life, faith, health, joy, peace that passes all understanding.

He has given me the tools to run for Him and I want to stand unashamed before His throne knowing that I did not compromise, that I ran and ran and ran and that I lived radically for Him who loves and gave His life for me.

Come run with me..

Wednesday, February 14, 2007 - Valentines day

2008-08-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Valentines Day

Current mood: loved

Today has been simply wonderful so far, the best (non wedding) day of my life, thank you Bertie!

I got back from work and Bertie had taped a valentines card to our front gate, and one on the front door, and one on our living room door! I went in to find Barry White playing and the most beautiful bouquet of tulip's, berries, and oh, just other beautiful gorgeous flowers. Then I had another card and gift, some bad boy hair straigteners. And then he had saved a game of bubbles on my mac with one colour left so I could clear the screen!

Then we watched the notebook and I wailed like a baby and even Bertie was 'damp'. Now he is finishing off our tea, creamed spinach, steak and buttery mash.

And I have just popped a bottle of Veuve Cliquot, so I shall leave you to enjoy my bubbly and my fabulous husband.

What a day to remember He who is love, and He by whom we are able to love.

I love you Jesus

Friday, February 02, 2007 - I want you to be my love

2008-08-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

I want you to be my love

Current mood: thirsty

The song on this page is the one I walked down the aisle to. The happiest moment of my life! enjoy..

Thursday, February 01, 2007 - Im 27% city and 36% country

2008-08-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

Im 27% city and 36% country

Current mood: amused

[x] been to Starbucks more than once in my life

[ ] link arms when I walk with someone

[ ] shop at AE, A&F, or HCO

[ ] own 2 or more polo shirts

[ ] will never be caught without my cell phone

[ ] blow dry my hair on a daily basis

[ ] wear flipflops no matter what the weather

[ ] own an oversized pair of sunglasses

[ ] own one or more pairs of ripped jeans

[x] layer my shirts

[x] will do anything to get the best Myspace pic

[ ] have/had a "Myspace mirror pic"

[ ] when I'm not drinking starbucks I prefer water

[x] own an oversized bag or purse

[ ] have seen every episode of Laguna Beach

[ ] my new favorite is the Hills

[ ] say "lol" in every sentence of every online conversation

[ ] own tight jeans or really baggy ones

[ ] wear large necklaces

[x] own an iPod/mp3 player

[x] internet = survival

[ ] play is Football, Baseball/Softball, Basketball

[ ] have more than 1 AIM screen name

[ ] have said "lol" or "OMG!" in a real conversation

[x] love shopping

[x] shop whenever I have a chance

[ ] own a bathing suit that cost 100 dollars or more

[x] have watched the Simple Life

GRAND TOTAL:9

add x's and multiply by 3 and put "I'm ----% city"

==============================================

HOW COUNTRY ARE YOU?

[x] ridden a horse

[] owned a horse

[] owned land..

[] been 4 wheeling

[x] said "ain't"

[] been cow-tipping

[] been deer hunting

[x] been swimming in a lake

[] caught a fish

[] seen a deer get skinned

[] have worked on a ranch or on land

[] have lived in a house in the middle of nowhere

[] have been duck hunting

[x] have been swimming in a river

[x] driven a truck

[] own a rebel flag

[] like to fish

[x] have a funny accent... or people have told you that

[x] own/owned a pair of cowboy boots

[x] own/owned a cowboy hat

[] own/have owned a big dog

[x] say "y'all"

[x] have gotten made fun of for sayin "y'all"

[] cuss when you're mad

[] have dipped/dip snuff...

[x] go to church on sunday

[] owned/own a bird dog

[] have riddin a horse to somewhere in town

[] have gone on a field trip to a farm/ranch

[] have eaten deer meat

[] have shot a gun

[] own a gun

[] park your vehicles in the yard...if need be

[] have gone shopping...for a gun

[] get the kids in your family a toy gun for christmas

[] wear long sleeves even in the summer..some times

[x] know what stirrups are

[] have fed the deer

GRAND TOTAL:12

Saturday, September 16, 2006 - Anticipation

2008-08-29T11:09:00.002-07:00

Anticipation

Current mood: contemplative

Today is my mum's birthday. Rob and I have made her a lemon drizzle cake with lemon mascarpone cheese. Me, mum and dad went to the pictures to see 'Little Miss Sunshine'. It was not very hollywood and really quite funny.

On Thursday Rob and I are having our pictures done, as part of our wedding photo package. And on wednesday Rob is going shopping to buy me a scooter. Then of course there is my birthday, the wedding, the honeymoon and moving house. Suffice to say I am excited and there is a lot of change ahead. Much anticipation for a new season of our lives.

John is in the States and though we miss him and anticipate his return, we are so excited for him and the opportunities ahead of him. And its all just so new. Rob's sister moved out on Wednesday, John's sister on Friday. Its all so new and wonderful. And uncertain.

Isn't that great?

Certain uncertainty.

Well dear friends, hope you are all enjoying the good things in your lives and that the Joy of the Lord is upholding you whatever you are doing and wherever you are headed.

I am going to mull over the weekend papers and maybe have some more coffee out of the deco style coffee machine I got mum.

Oh and for the record, an open invitation. Rob and I will be living in the centre of Brighton in a lovely peaceful 1830's flat. Minutes from the Laines, the beach, the restaurants and the shops. So if any of you pass by our way and fancy a visit, just holler. We would love to have you.

Ju x x x

Sunday, August 27, 2006 - Read this!

2008-08-29T11:09:00.001-07:00

Read this!

Current mood: awake

BULLET STYLE NEWS!!!

Wow!

1. Have booked honeymoon in Marrakech, Morocco. Excited.

2. Have new Chanel specs. Fabulous.

3. Still enjoying job. Thankful.

4. Am missing Kristie, Andrew, Alex, Hills, Rhett, Kevin, Charlotte, Chris, Matt. Sad.

5. Am really enjoying being in the same country as Rob. Fun.

Saturday, July 22, 2006 - Hooray

2008-08-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hooray

Life is grand..

I am a happy one because I spent the last two days rearranging my room, which I love. Now it is perfect. I have also done some wedding prep, which is essential and therefore good. I have also done some gardening, some cleaning, some cooking and some bargaining with insurance companies and mobile phone companies.

Very productive and efficent.

In addition to this hive of activity, I have a new job. Huzzah!!

Tomorrow I go back to my home church for the first time in 7 months. Lovely.

That is all for now.

The Ju

Thursday, July 13, 2006 - News and new stuff

2008-08-29T11:07:00.000-07:00

News and new stuff

Im back home and have made some startling discoveries.

Firstly, Brighton City now has Rickshaws. Yes, the Indian style taxi. We however call them "Tuc Tuc's" and by all accounts they cost a mere £2.50 to go anywehere.

Amazing.

Rickshaws. In england

Amazing.

Secondly, tonight I found (hallelujah!) wedding invites on line, printed with my wording, for only £32.99 for 50.

Also amazing.

In addition to these news-worthy revelations, I have secured 2 job interviews. Though I am thinking Ill just go to 1 of them. God has been just wonderful to me since I got back.

Amazing.

Yours,

The Ju

Monday, July 10, 2006 - Blogedy Blog

2008-08-29T11:06:00.000-07:00

Blogedy Blog

I am now in England.

I travelled here first class. Thank you Lord for air mile points and free upgrades. I can say, that first class is WORTH IT!

You get a menu with different meals on. I mean like pecan crusted chicken breast on a tarte of sweet potato with sauteed brussel sprouts, or East coast crab cakes with fried ocre. Real actual food. Plus, free limitless champagne, or other desired refreshments. Not to mention, a grazing station should you get peckish in between meals. Breakfast was toasted bagels with cream cheese. Oh and all of this served on real china plates and glass glasses and silverware.

However, I didnt in all honesty make the most of this luxury. No. The seats were way too comfy so I slept the whole way home. Seriously. That is miraculous!

So, now, I like to consider myself somewhat of an international jet setter. I am sure you would all agree.

Anyway. I am back home. And the whole reason I was blogging was to say this. I am in England and I can get wireless from my neighbours in my bedroom. Of course this tid-bit of info is now at the bottom of this long blog so none of you will even read this. But I am pleased. Wireless is not widespread here, so its just kinda cool that I have it. Nice.

Bye.

Oh and Paulette Wooten's CD is great.

Monday, June 19, 2006 - My all-American adventures..

2008-08-29T11:05:00.002-07:00

My all-American adventures..

A list of all-American things I will have done by the time I go home.

If I am missing any essential experiences, let me know!

Rented an apartment in the ghetto

Gone to a cookout and played volleyball

Baked pumpkin, sweet potato and pecan pies for Thanksgiving

Did Thanksgiving in a family home in the mountains

Driven a flat bed truck

Slept till 1pm

Gone on a road trip

Been to the beach

Gone to a pool party

Had a surprise party thrown for me

Seen a baseball game

Spent a day at the mall

Gone camping

Played xbox till the wee hours

Swam in a river

Gone sailing

Been to a superbowl party

Been to a fight party

Been to Carowinds three times

Drank beacoup de Starbucks

Been through drive-thrus

Rode on a motorbike

Been to four weddings

Graduated

Spent an entire afternoon at a coffee house

Had a watermelon fight

Friday, May 26, 2006 - The bus

2008-08-29T11:05:00.001-07:00

The bus

I have a sister who is wonderful.

She in turn has a husband who is also wonderful.

He is my wonderful brother in law and I love him lots.

Partly because he is the kind of person who always creates funny stories through his usual daily life. He always has fun tales to tell.

This is one such tale. It is a few years old now, but its still pointless and funny.

Enjoy.

One day, Peter was traveling home from work. This was a journey that required two buses. Each journey would take around 30 minutes or so.

Well, on this occasion, as he waited at the bus stop for the first bus, he pulled some mouth wash out of his bag and unscrewed the cap. Just then the bus pulled up, so he quickly took a swig of the mouthwash and climbed aboard. He went and took a seat and swooshed and rinsed his mouth with the wash. After thrity seconds of this (as the bottle suggests) the mouthwash began to burn and sting. Suddenly Peter realised that he could not spit out the mouth wash. He knew he would have to hold it, searing in his mouth, for 30 minutes until he reached his stop.

Squirming in pain, he endured the ordeal and somehow managed to hold in the wash for the full journey. Relieved to see he his stop, he reached up and dinged the bell. He stood, from his seat, mouth still bursting with the minty acid, and walked to the front of the bus. The vehicle came to a screeching halt and the doors sprang open. And as he stepped off of the bus, he swallowed.

30 minutes he held the mouthwash in. 30 painful, agonising minutes. And just seconds from relief, from the freedom to spit it out, as he steps off the bus, his natural instincts kicked in and he swallowed.

Gutted.

I love you Peter.

Friday, May 26, 2006 - The bathroom

2008-08-29T11:04:00.001-07:00

The bathroom

I live with a family.

A wonderful, loving, fun family.

So kind and sharing are we that we do not have our own wireless. No, instead we share with our neighbours.

Of course, when I say share, I use the term loosely. Some may say mooch, pinch or even steal.

However, whichever terminoligy you may use, it has always been a happy relationship between our laptops and the network simply called 'linksys'.

Until one fateful day a few weeks ago, I came to realise that that network no longer worked.

We grieved the loss of our good friend for a while, and soon found a new signal with whom we determined to become acquainted.

This new signal though is proving to be less outgoing than our old friend. He does not like to hang out with us in our bedrooms and living room. He pretty much only likes to stay in the bathroom, so here I am dear friends, posting this blog from the luxury of the bathroom.

Sunday, April 30, 2006 - All about me

2008-08-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

All about me..

Current mood: groggy

What do you dip a chicken nugget in?

I do not eat chicken nuggets. They are made from disgusting things.

What is your favorite type of food/cuisine?

Seafood and Greek

Were you a boy/girl scout?

I was a Brownie

Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?

No freakin way

When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper and mailed it?

I wrote a letter to Bertie and a letter to Sarah a few weeks ago

Ever gotten a speeding ticket?

Can you change the oil on a car?

Yes

Ran out of gas?

Best thing for breakfast?

Peaches, Greek youghurt and honey. Or Alpen and fruit. With coffee

Are you lazy?

Yes, I can be

Do you read the newspaper?:

Yes

How many languages:

One, avec une petite francias

Do you have any magazine subscriptions?

I used to have a Readers Digest subscription

Which are better Legos or Lincoln Logs?

Lego

Red wine or white wine?:

Red

Favorite season?

Summer

Have you ever wanted to be a teacher?:

Yeah

Are you stubborn?:

On occassion

Favorite TV channels?

BBC 1

Who is better...Leno or Letterman?

No idea

Afraid of heights?:

Sing in the car?

Of course!

Ever used a gun?

Are musicals cheesy?

Musicals, in general, are the work evil. I concede that there are a few, rare, exceptions

Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?

Poet

Do you believe in ghosts?

No, I believe in demons and angels and Jesus

Are you superstitious?

Take a vitamin daily?

I am a vitamin sceptic, so no

Wear a bath robe?:

No, I have a dressing gown though

What do you wear to bed?

Pyjamas

First concert?

Al Stewart or Bob Dylan

Favorite genre of music?:

Could not pick one

Wal-Mart, Target or K-Mart?:

Target.

Every time

Nike or Adidas?:

Nike

Ever take dance lessons?:

A few here and there, mainly street dance

Is there a profession that you picture your perfect future spouse having?

Whatever makes him happy and the Lord has him do

Can you curl your tongue?:

Yes

Ever won a spelling bee?:

We dont really do those in my country, so no

Regularly burn incense?:

Back home, yes

Tea or coffee?:

Coffee

Favorite kind of cookie?

Digestives

Can you swim well?:

I can swim well enough

Can you hold your breath w/o manually holding your nose?:

Yes

Ever had braces or a mouth piece?

Are you artistic?

I guess

Are you patient?

I am getting better, little by little

Ever won a contest?:

Probably, though it clearly had such little impact on me that I do not remember

Best room for a fireplace?

Living room, kitchen, dining room and bedroom

Have you ever gone fishing?

Of a kind. 11pm in Greece with a flashlight, some string and a few bottles of wine on the beach.

Does that count?

Saturday, April 15, 2006 - Sunny days

2008-08-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

Sunny days

Today was sunny. We washed the car. And who would have thought it of him, but Andrew absolutely soaked me and Kristie with the hose. Then when we were all suitably drenched from the water fight, we ate watermelon.

Then we had a water melon fight, which was sticky, but fun.

Salad for tea, trip to Walmart, lots of coffee and a movie. (Prime. A great movie, but the kind of unsatisfactory ending that leaves you a little despondant)

Tomorrow is Easter day and I anticipate more great coffee and hopefully some MUCH deserved celebration and worship.

JESUS

Friday, April 14, 2006 - Open wide

2008-08-29T10:58:00.000-07:00

Open wide

Tonight I had a revelation of something I have always known. Tonight I had a truth drop down from my head, into my heart. Tonight I was set free.

Tonight, as I worshipped and danced and surrendered myself to God, I felt Him consume me and open me up and expose me. For the first time, totally bare, totally real. And I knew.

I am loved.

I am loved by the Father. I have been made new. And I love my new skin, it looks just like Jesus skin. And I love my new heart, its free of sin and its healed from hate and hurt.

The new me does not have issues and hurts and demons and strongholds, the new me is Jesus. The new me is born again, completely new and free and alive.

I feel alive for the first time.

And I know now that it is a lie that calls me back to my old self, the sin and hurt that holds me there is not real. Because I am new. Those things have no part in me.

I felt Him in me as I worshipped. I didn't need to strive, to push, to dance or sing. I just opened up to Him and He moved in me. He moved me. He moved things in me.

He moved in me

In summation, tonight something new happened. Something incredible, something breath taking.

And I feel new.

I guess the heart of what I want to convey is that NOW is the time to push in, to let go of fears and hurts and throw your self into the Lord. Because tonight, when I was not feeling anything special and had not done anything worthy, He met me. And he opened me up and set me free. And now I feel more alive than I have ever been.

And Jesus wants to do the same for you. You, who is not expecting it, wanting it, feeling it, believing it. Stop, just for a second and let Him move in You.

'Cause He will.

And you will be changed....

Saturday, April 01, 2006 - Half a mile from my home

2008-08-29T10:57:00.000-07:00

Half a mile from my home

Current mood: contemplative

Some days I am really aware that I am living in America.

I wake up in an American home and look out the windows at this typical subdivision, neat rows of grey and beige boxes, felt roofs piercing the bigest sky I have ever seen. Double garages filled with bikes and mowers, huge SUV's sitting proud in the drive ways, the American dream.

By now it is so familiar to me, yet also so alien, so distant from the things I love. There are no walking figures, the streets are not jam packed, bursting with cars fighting for a space. It is still, warm , peaceful. I love it, but Oh how I long to see the haphazzard aray of buildings and colours of home.

And the people, so welcoming, so open. Truly wonderful, but not mine. Struggling to understand me and my accent, my ways. I feel like a foreigner when aspects of this culture, so ingrained in those around me, pass me by. And I long to be in a windswept home, rain thundering at the creaking windows, cosy with the ones I love, gathered around our affection for one another. No need to talk, to speak, just understanding, just knowing. And my heart tugs for home.

Yet as I listen to the music that lifts me most, that fills me with hope and faith, my spirit rises and a warm rush sweeps over me as I realise just how blessed I am. The songs I have always listened to that felt so far from me, are here, half a mile from my home. The presence I longed to feel, the life I longed to live is here, half a mile from my home. The people that inspired me and drove me and whose worship and teaching kept me hanging on by a thread for so many years in the greys of Britain, are here, half a mile from my home.

And I know, this is where I need to be, soaking in His love, His provision, His goodness.

So with a divided heart, that has never been so united, I sit and wait on Him. And a sorrow settles as I realise that I have only a few months left here in this wonderful place. A few more months to absorb as much as I can. And I can only hope that He will bring me back, when I am an us.

Wednesday, March 29, 2006 - 1.30 am

2008-08-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

1.30 am

Spring break was cut short. It is a really cool story, all about hearing God and His protection and His victory. Its a long story; in short we left at 1.30am after a crazy prompting from the Holy Spirit.

Fun night-time road trip!

Yay.

Tuesday, March 28, 2006 - GA, Spring Break part iii

2008-08-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

GA, Spring Break part iii

Today we had to postpone our Starbucks trip until after lunch. This was sad, but lunch was good. I had 'the usual', a breakfast at a diner. We met Chris' grandpa and he told us fabulous and funny old war stories. Then we went to Starbucks and I had my grande raspberry latte. Finally we made it to Ikea and Chris and I decided to see how far we could get around the store with me sitting in a wheely desk chair and him pushing me. We got all through the showroom and down stairs and part way through the market place before a member of staff questioned me and confiscated it. That was FUN!

In the market place, after the confiscation, a man asked Chris' brother what he knew about Liger's as Josh had on a Liger shirt. We all joked and quoted Napolean Dynamite. It slowly dawned on us as he stared on blank faced that he had not the seen the movie and was not joking. He actually was into to Ligers and thought Josh was too. He thought he had found a fellow liger-maniac, but no, he had found some idiot Napolena fans. We laughed so hard. He did not.

We came home. I debated with Chris' mum who does not belive in prophecy or any kind of divine inspriation or God given creativity. That was sad. Yesterday though I demonstarted to Josh the gift of tongues. He said 'yeah but no-one can just do it on demand'. And I said 'I can....' Ha ha ha ha ha. I liked it..

Monday, March 27, 2006 - Update..

2008-08-29T10:54:00.001-07:00

Update..

10pm we went to Krispy Kreme in our pyjamas and bought a dozen hot fresh rings of goodness. Chris and I sang and danced the whole way there and back; I made a play list on my ipod intended to cheer us up and stir up crazy excitement, It was as follows:

Like A Prayer - Madonna

Ive Had The Time Of My Life - Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

Music - Madonna

(You drive me) Crazy - Britney Spears

Gotta Get Thru This - Daniel Bedingfield

That Dont Impress Me Much - Shania Twain

Blaze Of Glory - Bon Jovi

Born To Try - Delta Goodrem

I Guess Thats Why They Call It The Blues - Sir Elton John

Whenever, Wherever - Shakira

Complicated - Avril Lavigne

Then we returned home and ate cookies, donuts and drank beer. Then we watched Sons of Provo. Now I am going to sleep. Goodbyes.

Monday, March 27, 2006 - GA, Spring Break part ii

2008-08-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

GA, Spring Break part ii

Current mood: relaxed

MONDAY

This morning we went by Starbucks and I had my grande raspberry latte, happy times. Then we went to The Varstiy where I enjoyed a lovely Frosted Orange. I could not bring myself to have a hot dog or burger after the dreaded Krystal experience yesterday. In fact, I am unsure if I shall ever regain my tatse for fast food thanks to Krystal.

The Varsity is a huge enormous school cafeteria style fast food place. It has several large dining rooms and each has a different tv station showing. It was big and busy and fairly good fun. Then we went to the Underground which was nice too. The best part for me though was going to the Centenial Park in Atlanta city centre. Atlanta is a really really beautiful city, colourful and enticing. And in the centre was a a really simple fountian that took my breath away. Designed for the '96 Olympics, it is the intersecting rings set into the ground as grills with water spurts coming straight up around the shape. The water comes out at alternate heights and times and it is just amazing. I found it to be really really stunning. My favourite so far.

Tonight we are going to watch Sons of Provo, apparantly a hilarious movie about a Mormon boyband. Andrew, Kristie, if its funny, we will watch it when I am back.

Toodle Pip

Ju x x x

Sunday, March 26, 2006 - GA, Spring Break part i

2008-08-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

GA, Spring Break part i

Current mood: dorky

SPRING BREAK

I am in Atlanta GA for Sping break. I will inform you of all the adventures every day until I return on Wednesday night.

Welcome to part 1 of the Spring Break Chronicles...

SUNDAY

Our trip to GA got off to a bad start an hour into the journey when Chris recommend I try Krystal hamburgers. Initially I was amused at the slow fast-food service received. 3 customers in the whole place and we each got given a number and had to wait 10 minutes for the food. Then, even more comically, the server asked me to sign and enter my pin and seemed confused when not both were necessary. Things took a sinister turn however when I ate one of the mini steamed burgers. I was no longer laughing. In fact I felt somewhat sick. So sick that I genuinely never want another hamburger again. They were vile.

The journey got a little better as I napped for an hour and a half, drifting off to sleep with the strains of Over the Rhine. Bliss. Then I awoke and was thrilled to see us cross a beautiful lake and so excited when we drove over the state line. It was a buzz for me to be in Georgia and the country side was magnificent. Then Chris played DJ on my ipod and we had some fun.

Then we stopped at a gas station and I went to use the toilet. It should have been a simple, non-threatening task. But this experience made Krystal seem like paradise. Ladies and gentlemen, I did not use the toilet at the gas station as there was a dead mouse curled up on the floor.

Finally we arrived in Atlanta, or Hotlanta as the locals would say. The city seems nice and it was great to meet Chris' family. We are staying at his mum's house and all is well and relaxing.

We also have a great treat in store. As Nancy has no coffee in her home, we are going to run out for Starbucks every morning that we are here. What a treat! Well, it is our vacation after all

Sunday, March 26, 2006 - My news

2008-08-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

My news

Current mood: cheerful

For those inclined to be interested, my most recent news.

NEW HOUSE

I have moved into a home with a really wonderful family and am so happy. I live with:

Pimp-daddy Andrew, a bad-a guitarists and all round hilarious guy with a sensitive side;

Kristie, his beautiful and fun wife who cooks like nobodies business and is great girlie company;

Their cute as a button son, Alex who is a wicked drummer and really great company;

And Twix the darn dog.

Now, I LOVE life at the Ketchums, and I really have fun and so greatly appreciate that they would open their home to me. But we are having definite issues with the dog. Twix you seem has separation anxiety. He is sweet and loving and pretty. But dang, if you leave him for a moment, he goes mental. He started ripping stuff up that was left out. So each time we left the house we would ensure the doors to all the rooms would be shut firm and that there was would nothing he could reach and destroy. But each time we would go out, he would either get into a room or find something to devour. So, Saturday night, we are all out at the Women's conference (Ill get to that) and Kristie gets a bad feeling. Before we left, we removed EVERYTHING from the living room, we left the back door open so twix can go 'potty' outside, and we shut and barricade every door. All is safe. Then, Andrew, Alex and I arrive home to find the most hideous scene. He got into the kitchen bin. There is the dregs of my raspberry latte all over the carpet (bright pink stains), poopy diapers eaten, shredded and ground into the carpet, food, paper. It is a state. And then, despite the door being left open, he went 'potty' inside. Twice. Oh my gosh were we mad. That dog was in tr-ouble!

Fun was had though cleaning up, Kristie and I giggled and she spilt detergent everywhere. Our evening was redeemed, if not a little marred.

STARBUCKS

I mentioned above a raspberry latte. I got it into my head that raspberry syrup would be great in a latte. So I ordered one. And I was right.

Raspberry latte's rick my face off.

WOMEN'S CONFERENCE

I was not there for much of it as my blood pressure plummeted and I rested at home a great deal. But what I was there for, I watched from the sofa in the directors suite and it was impressive. It was really really great. Saturday night inparticular was just amazing. I danced some and then sat and rested and my goodness it was off the hook. A whole other level. Rita Springer and Suzy make a great team and throw Molly into the mix and you have a winner! Suzy was incredible, like totally free crazy spontaneous Sprit fueled intimate high energy worship. It was intense.

At the conference, every woman was given a journal. There were maybe 600 journals made. I personally made 6 or 7. And of them, two of them were special to me. I made them at Molly's and was really blessed. As I decorated them, I got words and prayers for the recipient. And I just knew who they were going to. I prayed into them and had all these words for them. So, I am reclined in the suite on my sofa eating mini 3 musketeers, when Kristie bursts in all excited. She is grasping a journal that she is thrilled about. She says it is perfect for her, that she looked at the ones other people had and was like 'they're nice, they're fine, but they're not very special or meaningful to me' And then she got handed hers and it just speaks to her and encourages and blesses her. And it was one of those 2 that I had made. I didn't even know Kristie when I made it, and now I live with her and the chances of her getting one of the few I made was just crazy. GOD IS SO COOL.

Sunday, March 19, 2006 - 2 things

2008-08-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

2 things

Two Names You Go By

1. JuJar

2. Pooh farley (sis ONLY people)

Two Parts of Your Heritage

1. England

2. Ireland

Two things that scare you

1. Roches

2. Tapered leg trousers

Two of Your Everyday Essentials

1. My i-book

2. Bed Head goo for my locks

Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now

1. Pj bottoms (blue with snowflakes)

2. An AMAXING shirt from the thrift store.. on the fron it says 'George W Bush, president elect' And on the back it says, get this, 'W stands for winner'

Genius

Two Physical Things that Appeal to You

1. Smile

2. Fore-arm

Two of Your Favorite Hobbies

1. Eating

2. Sleeping, shopping, showering

Two Places You Want to go on Vacation

1. Mexico

2. Italy

Two Things You Want to Do Before You Die

1. Know Jesus more

2. Laugh with my husband into old age

Two Things You Are Thinking About Now

1. Rob

2. Wont twix shut up barking?

Two store you shop at?

1. Target

2. Apple

Two people you haven't seen in a while

1. Sarah

2. Peter

Sport to watch and/or play)

1. Gymnastics

2. Curling

Two People who will fill this out

1.?

2.?

Two things you did last night

1. Told Kristie my most embarrasing moment

2. Ate cake at a birthday party

Two shows you like to watch

1. Black Books

2. Extreme makeover home edition

Two places you like to go to:

1. Kefalonia, Greece

2. Brighton

Two Favorite Subjects In School:

1. English

2. French

Two Favorite Places to eat:

1. Ohmaha steak house

2. Chick fil a

Two people that live in your house:

1. Kristie

2. Andrew

2 things you like about yourself (physically):

1. My smile

2. My fore-arms

Two things you ate today:

1. Cake

2. Smoothie

Two things about the person who posted this:

1. Kristie is funny

2. Kristie lets me live with her

Two people you last talked to:

1. Alex

2. Andrew

Two Things You're doing tomorrow:

1. chillin with Alex while Kristie does her thang

2. Not waking up to an alarm clock

Wednesday, March 01, 2006 - a silly thing that happened

2008-08-29T10:24:00.001-07:00

a silly thing that happened

Current mood: sleepy

tonight on the way back from housegroup I was sleepy, so kenny took us to a gas station to buy me a coffee. so i pressed the latte button. but all i got was a cup of hot frothy milk. no coffee. just warm milk. needless to say i laughed really hard. and of course by the time i got home after drinking it, i was even more sleepy.

now i know that the latte button in gas station really means hot frothy milk.

and i am also reminded of milks sleep-enducing qualities

the end

Tuesday, February 28, 2006 - I laughed so hard

2008-08-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

I laughed so hard

I just saw an advert for Malcom in The Middle and I laughed so so hard.

Really it was incredibly funny.

Tuesday, February 28, 2006 - Yet another questionnaire

2008-08-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

Yet another questionnaire

Current mood: thirsty

1) What stickers do you have on your truck?

I do NOT drive a truck

2) What posters do you have in your room?

Only a canvas Rob painted for me of Moravian waterfalls

4) If you could drink anything right this second, what would it be?

Ribena

5) Does anything hurt on your body right now?

My bum is numb

6) Do you have a crush right now?

Nope

7) What's your job position called?

Unemployed (hence the numb bum)

8) What size ring do you wear?

small

9) Do you own a camera phone?

nope. they are so last year int he Uk..

10) When's your birthday?

Sep 25

11) What was your Elementary schools mascot?

Yeah, no we dont do that in my homeland

12) What's your favorite bottled water?

Zao

13) What's the next concert/show you're going to and when?

Hopefully Al Stewart In April

14) What were you doing at 9 pm last night?

Hangin with me girls Andrew and Kristie

15) Whats your favorite Starbucks drink?

Latte

16) Do you exercise as much as you should?

Nope

17) Did you attend your High School prom?

Uh, we had a dance I went to..

18) Did you go to someone else's prom?

19) Would you give your bf/gf a second chance if they cheated?

Um..

20) Something red within 5 feet of you?

A baby play block

21) The weirdest thing you've seen this week?

Kristies current profile pic! ha ha

22) Ever done the Electric Slide?

Yes

23) How much French do you know?

un peu.. I can do conversational

24) Favorite sparkly thing?

my custom made engagement ring

25) Ever crash a car, been in accidents?

A truck once ran into my mini and wrote it off. Then a deer ran in front of another one of my cars and wrote it off. No more now please

27) Do you look good in yellow?

yup

28) Do you sing?

yeah!

29) Ever sang in front of a crowd?

The London Palladium, church, people that ride in my car with me

30) Do you dance?

YES!

32) Least favorite color?

black. or white

33) Favorite kind of pizza?

veggie

34) Ever had Dippin Dots?

I have no idea what that means

35) Ever make fun of a homeless person?

I dont think so.

36) How old were you when you got a cell phone?

37) How old were you when you got your first car?

19, a red mini cooper.. an OLD one, it was proper wicked

38) How many driving tickets have you had?

40) How many parking tickets?

41) Do you own your own car?

Yes

42) Do you want to get married?

Yes

43) At what age do you want to get married?

44) Have you ever been married?

ha ha ha

45) Have you ever had to get restraining order?

he he he

46) At what age do you want to have kids?

mid to late 20s-ish

47) How many kids?

whatever

48.) Ketchup or Mustard?

colemans english mustard

49) When is the last time someone deleted you from their space?

Dunno

50) How many times a week are you on Myspace?

every dang day

51) Ever been kicked out of your home?

no, dont be ridiculous

52) Favorite character on Friends?

monica

53) Have you ever been in love?

Yep

54) Have a crush on a teacher?

uh, no.

55) Favorite class?

Languages

56) Have a best friend?

a bunch thereof

58) Have a boyfriend/girlfriend?

not both no

59) One place you want to travel to:

mexico

Tuesday, February 21, 2006 - He doesnt compare His children

2008-08-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

He doesnt compare His children

Current mood: thankful

So often I feel so lacking, so inadequate compared to others. I feel I have to live up to expectations, be as cool, as pretty, as arty, as intellectual, as spontaneous, as disciplined, as knowledgable, as healthy, as talented as others. And I feel lost, drowing in a sea of impossibilities, because try as I may, I cant make myself to be like anyone but me.

And then I hear His still small voice.

Its refreshing like a breeze and it breaks me. My burdens are lifted I and feel so light I could float. Tears well up in the eyes which are not made-up like they are supposed to be, and the tears roll down the cheeks that are fuller than they are meant to be, and land on my tshirt, which doesnt match my necklace or my coat like it should. And He tells me that He doesnt compare His children.

He doesnt compare His children.

And I am so relieved, so thankful. It means I am free to be me. Whoever I am, Im free.

Monday, February 20, 2006 - A movie? For 50 cents?

2008-08-29T10:18:00.000-07:00

A movie? For 50 cents?

Current mood: ecstatic

Yes! At the dollar theatre, we watched a movie for 50 cents! And not just any old move, oh no! This was Pride and Prejudice. And it was A-Mazing. I mean, it was just simply wonderful. Keira was great and Darcy, well I love him!

Monday, February 20, 2006 - When did I go all folk-y?

2008-08-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

When did I go all folk-y?

Current mood: dorky

I always liked rock and country.. but lately Ive gone all folk-y.. I guess Bertie is rubbing off on me, even from afar!

Love you baby x x x

ps... Am watching the duplex for the second time, and wondering why. It is so LONG!

Saturday, February 18, 2006 - itunes

2008-08-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

itunes

The last two albums I bought off itunes:

1. Drunkards Prayer by Over The Rhine

2. Wildflower by Sheryl Crow

The next two albums I want to buy off of itunes:

1. About a Boy soundtrack by Badly Drawn Boy

2. Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morisette before she went wonky

2. Beach Full of Shells by Al Stewart

2. The Best of by The Cranberries

The two top reasons why I like itunes:

1. Its cheap

2. Its quick

1. Its attatched to my ipod

2. It suggests other atrists while I listen to music

1. Its really clever and I cant understand how it works really

Thats all I have to say about that

The Ju

Saturday, February 18, 2006 - The great reveal

2008-08-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

The great reveal..

Current mood: calm

This morning I washed my hair for the first time time since its cut.. it could have been disasterous, but I am gald to say that it looks just as fab curly.. teeny short curls at the back and lip lenght curls at the front.. very ok by me.. and its really been thinned out, so its really not very tina turner at all, surprisingly.

Friday, February 17, 2006 - Thoughts

2008-08-29T10:06:00.002-07:00

Thoughts

Current mood: happy

I love this picture of Bertie.. and I think its funny that it makes it look like Im a boy! Hes so gorgeous..

Well I had my hair lopped off and I like it, Its lip lenght at the front and, well, very short at the back.. I havent seen it curly yet.. could be fun! I really want to go really short and funky.. Ill see how I get on with this first I guess, but I am intrigued!

4 more rents before I go back home! Huzzah!

I am currently at HIM on reception and am greatly enjoying ambient techno tunes care of Paulette and Joal.. super.

Toodle Pip

Saturday, February 11, 2006 - Confession

2008-08-29T10:06:00.001-07:00

Confession

Current mood: calm

The song currently playing on my site is my favourite ever song.

Really.

Friday, February 03, 2006 - Today

2008-08-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

Today

Current mood: sad

My Grandma passed away today after being sick for 5 years. I dont really know what to do being so far from home.

Thats all I have to say, except that I would appreciate any prayers for my mum and grandad.

Sunday, January 29, 2006 - A song for Bertie

2008-08-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

A song for Bertie..

Current mood: blank

There is a tv show I love in England, on channel 4, called Teachers. I always loved the theme tune and didnt know what it was until I got together with my man, Rob. He is well into alternative madness. Some of it is quite good. Belle and Sebastian is one of groups he introduced me to and my current myspace song is by them and is the theme to the show I like. I devote it to you my darling...

x x x x x

Friday, January 27, 2006 - My top 10 recording artists

2008-08-29T10:03:00.002-07:00

My top 10 recording artists

Current mood: hopeful

It was hard to compile this list, but so many of you were asking, I though it about time I told you. My top 10 musicians, singers, bands or solo artists are, in order:

1. Daniel Bedingfield (Incredibly talented pop artist, loves Jesus)

2. Sheryl Crow (Rockin counrty)

3. Al Stewart (Folk/easy listening, amazing lyricist)

4. Molly Williams (Rockin worship)

5. The Eagles (Legendary)

6. Will Young (Beautiful voice)

7. Don Potter (Amazing)

8. Jamiroqaui (RnB, Jazz, Funk fusion)

9. Leonard Jones (LOUD worship)

10. Suzy Yarei (Worship, writes great songs)

Please note that this list is very much subject to change.

Please do not cry if you are not on it, it is not a personal thing.

Please be aware that there are many more artists who are very close in the running.

Yours,

Music Mogul J.D

Thursday, January 26, 2006 - My vanity

2008-08-29T10:03:00.001-07:00

My vanity

Current mood: thirsty

I confess publicly that I just love to play with digital cameras and take photos of myself. Sad thing is I dont have a digital camera myself, which is perhaps when I borrow one I spend so long posing. Anyway, here are a couple new shots.

This week has been good, Fri night Im gonna drive up to Wilksboro and stay with Rick and Lori for a lovely relaxing weekend.

Right now I am bored..

Toodle Pip

Monday, January 23, 2006 - I just discovered something amazing

2008-08-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

I just discovered something amazing

Current mood: ecstatic

I just discovered that I am incredibly fast at hopping. I mean, like super sonic speed. I challenged someone to a hopping race and they were whooped so bad and that was when I realised that I have a very real and very unique skill.

Monday, January 23, 2006 - I like this one

2008-08-29T10:01:00.002-07:00

I like this one

I like this survey, its quirky

1. Initials:

JLD

2. Name someone with the same birthday as you:

Declan Donelly, Hilary-Rose Grace, Janelle, Michael Douglas, Christopher Reeve, Heather Locklear, Will Smith, Catherine Zeta-Jones

3. Favorite Fruit?

grapes

4. Do you have grillz?

je ne sais pas?

5. Are you allergic to anything?

brazil nuts, sesame seeds, raw egg white, raw potatoes

6. Are you bisexual?

7. Have you ever been in love?

yes

8. How many U.S states have you been to?

FL, NC, SC, MN

9. How many of the U.S states have you lived in?

NC, SC

10. Have you ever lived outside the U.S?

ha ha ha

11. Name something physical you like about yourself.

me eyes

12. Something non-physical you like about yourself.

I amuse myslef and other people who posess an equally good sense of humour

14. What is your dream car?

an audi A3 or a bentley continental, or a Jag xk8 or a porsche boxter

16. Have you ever had someone of the opposite sex sleep over?

I live in a hotel room. That question is ludicrous.

17. Are you bipolar?

18. What dream car do you want your husband/wife to drive?

I actually could not care any less

20. Where would you want to go on a first date?

I dont ever want another first date

21. Would you date the person who posted this before you?

No offence Molls, No!

22. Has anyone ever sang or played for you personally?

Yes. Most recently, william matthews sang me a prophesy and that was AWESOME

23. Ever been kissed under fireworks?

I scream too much to kiss under fireworks!

24. Do you like president Bush?

No. He is cute

25. Have you ever bungee jumped?

26. Have you ever white water rafted?

27. Has anyone ten years older than you ever hit on you?

I have no idea!

30. Are you racist?

are the french a race?

ha ha ha. That was a joke people.

31. What song are you listening to right now?

emmanuel, Kelanie

32. What's your favorite song at the moment?

I dont have ONE

33. What was the last movie you watched?

Oceans 11, 2 nights ago LOVE IT so so much...

35. Where was the last place you went besides your house?

Chris and Charlottes house, no wait, Jamie and Micah's house

36. Have you ever seriously vandalized someone else's property?

Ha ha that sounds funny. But no.

37. Have you ever hit someone of the opposite sex?

Yes. I was a childish 13 year old and I thought it was cool. I am sorry Alan Jones, you did nothing to deserve that stinging slap and the red hand print.

39. What's the first thing you notice about the opposite sex?

Face

40. What's ur fav. body part on the opposite sex?

Eyes and forearm

41. What do you usually order from Starbucks?

cap.

44. Say something totally random about yourself.

I get thirsty a lot

45. Do you have an iPod?

A beautiful 20GB

46. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity?

Mariah Carey

49. Do you have freckles

49. Are you comfortable with your height?

Heck yes!

50. Do you like someone right now?

Bertie!

51. How tall are you?

How short am I? 5'1"

52. Do you speak any other language other than english?

Une petite peu francais

55. Have you ever ridden in a limo?

yes

56. Has anyone you were really close to you passed away?

yes.

57. Do you watch MTV?

No, it is like soft porn

58. What's something that really annoys you?

people who are rude for no good reason

59. What are some things you really like?

Sleeping, Jesus, friends who are true to me

60. Do you like Michael Jackson?

Heck yes!

61. Can you dance?

I dont know..

62. Have you ever surfed?

only online. I am such a dork.

63. Do you know how to pump gas?

What the heck kind of question is that?

64. Do you drive?

Very well.. on both sides of the road

65. What's the latest you have ever stayed out?

I was probably too tired to remember

66. Have you ever thought that you were honestly going to die?

Yes

67. Were you ever rushed by an ambulance into the emergency.

No but Bertie did and I am well jealous!

68. Have you ever been dared to do something you didn't want...yeah but i pretty much do?

Sarah dared me to rip a corner out of the yellow pages when I was small and I did and I thought I would get into well loads of trouble. Then she dared me to eat this manky milky/watery/bread/peppercorn concoction and i didnt want to do that but I did and it was VILE! So, yeah...

69. What's your favorite state to live in?

Romans 5.. the grace state of Gods mercy

Monday, January 23, 2006 - A question of hair

2008-08-29T10:01:00.001-07:00

A question of hair

Current mood: thirsty

I am always freakin thirsty. I could have just drank a pint of water and I already want another.

Anyway, to the matter in hand

I want my hair shorter as it grows stupidly quickly and I am open to SENSIBLE opinions from PEOPLE I TRUST (Chris!) about what to do.. how short dare I go, bearing in mind my hair is big and curly and however short it is, it needs to be long enough to straighten. Maybe I should just have a trim. Ugh. I am without inspiration..

If anyone suggests a fringe (bangs) I will not be held responsible for my actions.

How is everyone?

Toodle Pip x x x

Friday, January 13, 2006 - this week

2008-08-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

this week

Rob left on Monday which made me sad, but he seems happy and healthy and that makes me glad. And we prayed loads of financial blessing on him, so at customs at the airport he declared his new fender strat 62 and paid the tax on it ti be honoring to God. And when he got home there was an envelope for him with half the amount he paid in it. And then, today he got his pay pack and his work have randomly given him an extra weeks wage! Thank you Lord!

Teaching at school has been really good this week, all about being creative and the bible and eating the word of God. And I have had loads of time to journal and scrap book and read and just generally chill.

Yesterday, some people from school threw me a surpise party to cheer me up after Rob leaving. How sweet is that?! I was so amazed at people caring enough to make such a kind effort. And we watched The Island, which was.. well.. yeah.

Today, well, now, Hilary-Rose has an interview at Hollister, so thats cool.

And tonight is SOS which means I get to see Chris and Charlotte.. woo-hoo!

Toodle-pip

Ju x x

Saturday, January 07, 2006 - 2006 and feeling sentimental

2008-08-29T09:51:00.000-07:00

2006 and feeling sentimental

Current mood: thirsty

Since my last blog, I have had some wonderful Christmas gifts, flown for over 9 hours, spent time with my favouritest people and welcomed in the new year. When I left England it was beautiful and snowy and I wept as I left my sister her husband and thier son. Im still really upset right now, I guess its knowing that I shant see them for 6 months this time is hard and getting used to not seeing them every day takes some getting used to.

Im also a tad teary right now as my darling Rob leaves on Monday and I simply cannot bear the thought of saying goodbye to him. He came back with me for new year and we have had an incredible time. Jim Bakker preached the best message we have ever heard, Rob bought a Fender Strat 62 sunburst (mm mm) and I got me some bargains in the sales. Plus we just laughed so hard, its been wonderful. But I have just 2 days left with him and its really rotten.

So far I FREAKIN LOVE 2006! I have had a free dinner at Chilis, a free shopping trip and now a weekend in the falls. I am surrounded by wonderful people and am so very very loved.

Thanks to all of you who made Rob so welcome and loved here during his visit.

Thursday, December 15, 2005 - yay from the UK

2008-08-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

yay from the UK

Current mood: bouncy

Ive finally had my haircut.. I booked it in August and was sooo excited.. very short, very curly, black, blonde and everything in between!

The magic-mixer is up and running, and my nephew Josiah is crawling and climbing and is the coolest thing in the world. Bertie has facial hair and is gorgeous and I missed him and now I have him back!

Much love from cloud 9 x x x x x

Saturday, December 10, 2005 - A wonderful end of term..

2008-08-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

A wonderful end of term..

Current mood: ecstatic

Well, yesterday was my last day of my first trimester at MSM and it was the most glorious day.

In the morning at school I collected some words from two classmates from people back at home which were so bang on. Then I had fun playing on 'paint' in the afternoon. Then I got given a bible and a cd and a hat and a thsirt and some socks and 2 more pairs of socks and got lent an adapter for my mac. And to top it all off, we had some stunningly great worship led by the mollster. Sippable sundaes and teeny tiny fries finished off my day at 2am at shake and steak. I havent laughed so hard in AGES. I was so blessed, so loved, so happy. I was told I have rainbows in my eyes and that I seem so different. I feel great!

This week I got to spend a bunch of time with Jessi, my fave! We shopped and laughed. She bought an amazing dress. I found an amazing dress I couldnt afford, then was lent the exact same dress by a dormie here to wear to the party and to take home for christmas. Then we had a lovely meal on Thurs with all my classmates who scrub up so well. And I did washing up with wonderful people till 1am and it was so fun. I also spent the day with Char and baby on Monday.. what a tremendous week.

Thanks to Molly, Joel, Rhett, Nicole and Jessi for all contributing to the best week of term!

I go home tomorrow.

I am writing this blog to avoid packing.. MUST go..

WOW!

Jesus thank you for changing me and shaping me and challenging me and stretching me and bringning me through some tough months. Its like He bought me through all this stuff and gave me this beautiful prize at the end; a fabulous week at the end of term and a trip home! Wow. I am so blessed and He is so faithful and I WILL trust in Him.

I love you all, merry berry and thanks all for blessing me so so abundantly.

Friday, December 09, 2005 - Things I love about the USA

2008-08-29T09:47:00.002-07:00

Things I love about the USA

Things I love about america

The shirts the UPS men wear and the trucks they driveThe funny mailboxes everyone has by the roadsideWireless internetChristmas lights everywhere all over neighbourhoodsKrispy KremeGiant enormous carsRednecksCoffeeTargetCaramel apple lollies and chocolate jell-o

Friday, December 09, 2005 - Lots of big news

2008-08-29T09:47:00.001-07:00

Lots of big news

Current mood: bouncy

Firstly, I got given a cell phone and someone is paying the bill each month.. how incredible!

If you want my number, mail me and Ill distribute it accordingly.

I GO HOME IN 2 DAYS!!! Woooohoooooooo

Um, theres way more news but Im not in a typey-typey mood, so I shall resume later..

Monday, November 28, 2005 - Tires and radiators.. I cant get home!

2008-08-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

Tires and radiators.. I cant get home!

Current mood: amused

Ok, so I was meant to go back to HIM yesterday, but I had a punctured tyre. So this morning I went had the tyre fixed and was cruising back down the 421 when my temperature gauge shoots up into the red and smoke comes pouring out of my engine. My dear friends Rick and Lori came to help me. Rick poured water into a thing in my engine and said I was out of water. Who knew car engines needed water? Huh. So he filled it up and the gauge went back to normal and the smoking stopped. But its in the garage now having a check-over, make sure its all ok. Rick is paying for me to have a new dooberry-doo, some car part. They are so wonderful to me!

Anyway, please pray that it is cheap and not a big problem and that I can be home by 5pm. Oh, and that when I get back, the office will still be open and I can pick up my mail and that I would indeed have mail to collect, in particular 2 over due checks. Thanks!

Thanks y'all x x x

Saturday, November 26, 2005 - PLEASE READ THIS BLOG

2008-08-29T09:44:00.000-07:00

PLEASE READ THIS BLOG

Current mood: tired

Ok, so this is important.. please pray for my good friends here in Charlotte. They are having a baby. Actually, she has been in labor for 6 days. So please pray that things would move along quickly and that she would not be too exhausted. THANK YOU.

Right, from this point on, it is non-compulsary reading...

I have invented some phrases:

double dang it! - as in 'I have no numbchucking skills, double dang it!'

hickory heck - as in 'what the hickory heck is that pigeon doing in my car?'

When I said 'I have invented some phrases', I kinda meant two.

I watched Youve Got Mail tonight.. I love that movie. I also absolutely LOVED Shaun of the Dead. All those English people (Dawn; the office. Bernard; Black Books), English streets and cars and buildings and the English humour. It was fantasticle indeed. Watch it. (If youre old enough)

Also today I discovered that my UK ebay id works here in the state and I picked up a cool little bargain..

Noone cares about any of this stuff. Its absolute nonsense. Apart from the sayings I created. Im sorry. I just ramble. Ugh.

Right, Im off.

Oh, and beware, I have been feeling poetic the last few days, watch your page, it may be attacked with poorly constructed odes.

Love and yawns, Julia Louise Daynes

Friday, November 25, 2005 - Christmas wishlist

2008-08-29T09:43:00.002-07:00

Christmas wishlist

Current mood: lethargic

All I want for Christmas..

Coffee is brewed, heating is on, winter is here.. What better a time to write my Christmas list! Usually I would print it out and distribute it to all my family and close friends and probably stick a few up around the home too. But I cant, so a blog shall have to suffice.

Now, my list is somewhat small and unadventurous. This is because what I actually want for Christmas, I have. A ticket home to see the people I love and havent seen for 4 months. Nothing can compare to that! But heres a few boring essnentials..

INTERNATIONAL GIFTS:

Lots of socks

Estee Lauder Intuition perfume

A new toothbrush

More cord trousers

Sheryl Crow's latest offering

A USB cable to connect my printer to my laptop

A power cable for my ibook to fit UK plug sockets

A digital camera

Sims 2 for mac

Napolean Dynamite DVD (preferably region free)

UK ONLY GIFTS:

A haircut - ugh

TopShop tstring 12, colourful!

Cadbury's

The deodrant I like, (Bertie knows it)

The sole claim over playing with, cuddling, feeding, changing, dressing, putting to sleep and washing Josiah!

Oooh, as always people, check my amazon wishlist..

Ok, I really think thats it..

NOT LONG NOW!!

MY FAVOURITE TIME OF YEAR!!!!

C H R I S T M A S !

Woooooo

Love to all, Ju

Thursday, November 24, 2005 - Christmas next!

2008-08-29T09:43:00.001-07:00

Christmas Next!

Current mood: relaxed

My fave is Christmas.. and I am SOOO EXCITED!!!

Ok, so I love giving gifts, I love it. One year I got my brother in law a radio controlled mini cooper and EVERY SINGLE James Bond movie ever made. Seriously, how cool is that?

My brother in law, who I adore, is so cool. He has a kid and a wife and a family car and a job and a cat, but his passion is toys. Even after that super cool and ridiculously outrageously generous big gift, his favourite ever from me was a 'magic mixer' a toy a I got from the pound store (dollar store). It is a teeny tiny mixer that plays 4 songs and you an change the sound that sings th song to frog, dog, cat or bird. I totally got it as a joke at least 4 years ago. It still works and is still his favourite. And I kid you not (no joke of a lie as Anna BB1 would say) our family (mum dad sa pete me bertie) genuinely still play with it and will be amused by it for like 30 mins at a time. WE LOVE THE MAGIC MIXER.

Ok, so to finish off thanksgiving, we watched santa claus 1 and 2. And apparently number 3 is being made. Now I feel all festive. There were 2 people in the movies who I recognised but couldnt place.. dont you hate it when that happens? I figured it out now though..

I had three cups of coffee today. One with eggnog creamer and two with regular half&half.

Nearly Christmas and I am EXCITED!!!

Greater than three, Danelle

Thursday, November 24, 2005 - Thanksgiving review

2008-08-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving review

Current mood: full

My first and hopefully not last thanksgiving was great! Below I review the things I tried for the first time this Thanksgiving:

Pecan pie, 10/10 (I made it and it rocked)

Sweet potato pie, 10/10 (I made it and it was goo-hood)

Candied yams, 6/10 (Strange to my pallete, but tasty none the less)

Eggnog (8/10)

Brocolli cheese 9/10 (freakin sweet)

Corn scallop (9/10)

American stuffing (7/10)

American cranberry sauce (6/10)

Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade (7/10)

Yeah, I like Thanksgiving and now I am feeling all festive and ready for Christmas. Woo.

We forgot turnips and had to rush to the grocery store and buy them at 2pm - yes, the store was open ON A PUBLIC HOLIDAY!!! Madness.

Oh and we watched the game whilst eating food and baby Riley made the BIGGEST mess in the world and I laughed so hard.

Well, Christmas movies are a calling.. peace out, and remember, get some new skills, like bowstaff skills..

Greater than three, Danelle

Tuesday, November 22, 2005 - Eggnog creamer

2008-08-29T09:41:00.002-07:00

Eggnog creamer..

Current mood: enthralled

..is surprisingly fabulous!

Well, thanksgiving is but a few days away and my excitement is growing. I am going to be at a big family thanksgiving meal here in Moravian Falls and will consume traditional American delights.

Im excited, double dang it!

Also, I am going to be attending a Christmans party at school with an amazing chef catering, then Im going home for Christmas, and when I get back, I am going to a wedding with my fiancee in Moravia. Could life be any more exciting and fun packed? I think not!

Woooooooo!!!!

Oh, and winter has finally hit NC and I can snuggle up in cosy jumpers (sweaters) by a roaring fire watching movies. Huzzah!

Sazzle, I love you.

JuBaLubeA x x x x

Friday, November 18, 2005 - 2 years!

2008-08-29T09:41:00.001-07:00

2 years!

To my darling, happy 2nd anniversary, sorry Im not with you, but I will be next year.

I love you x x x x

Thursday, November 17, 2005 - Dear family..

2008-08-29T09:40:00.001-07:00

Dear family...

Current mood: happy

I posted a pic of me and hils on our birthday.

I dont look like that anymore, it was 2 months ago. I have lost weight and have roots and my hair needs a trim. Im gonna come home just so you can sort me out as I am a big mess!

I have real photos for you too, Ill bring them home with me, you can keep them and show Jo some recent ones of THE BEST AUNTY IN THE WORLD!!

Love you mummy daddy sa pete jo and bertie.

Hope all is well at number 6 x x x x x

Thursday, November 17, 2005 - Cats are better than dogs.

2008-08-29T09:39:00.000-07:00

Cats are better than dogs.

Current mood: peaceful

They dont smell, they are clean and becasue they are so independant, unlike needy dogs, when they do give you love it means so much more.

ALAN is coming home tomorrow. We are excited that Alaskan Alan is making the move from Kansas City International House of Prayer to MorningStar/TheCause/Jhop here in SC.

PEOPLE>> there will be a party to celebrate his move. It will be after Thanksgiving. Hopefully before I go home for Christmas on Dec 11th.

Have I mentioned that I am going HOME to ENGLAND for Christmas where I will eat NORMAL food and see my FAMILY and FIANCEE?

Anyway, Alan, Party, Stay tuned, Char and I are planning it. Yes. It will rock your face off.

Today some incredible couple from MorningStar church wanted to sow into the school of ministry students. Each student who was on time to class got an envelope with a $100 bill in! How unbelievably amazing is that?! Thats a serious investment to make. When I opened the envelope, everyone around me was opening theirs too and going, ooh, aah, wow etc. But I was so shocked to see $100! I just cried, it completely broke me. The previous night I had been saying to the Lord that I was doubting His provision. Not beacsue I dont think He can, but I dont know, I was kinda listening to the lies of the enemy and believing that he didnt want to provide for me. I felt like I needed to beg Him. But He kept reminding me 'youre my daughter, I love you. I love to provide for you. To provide is who I am. It is what I do, what I love to do.' Then He promised He would show me I could trust Him. And the next morning.. the envelope in class.

How could I ever doubt such a faithful God? He is so good and so true. He IS love. He doesnt have love to give, He is love. It is who He is. And I simply adore Him. He is incredible and beautiful and beyond words.

Thank you Jesus for saving me again and again and for breathing life into my unbelief and doubt. For bringing peace to my fears. I love you.

Friday, November 11, 2005 - Mr T

2008-08-29T09:38:00.002-07:00

Mr T

Current mood: ecstatic

Thanks so very muchly. I love Wendys burgers. To offer so kindly to go buy me a combo meal is just splendid. I thank thee.

Friday, November 11, 2005 - Oh and another few things

2008-08-29T09:38:00.001-07:00

Oh and another few things

Current mood: thirsty

Today an American dude challenged me to a duel of the accents; who has a better/more authentic British accent. I mean seriously? He sounded Chinese anyway, but what is that about?

Well the number 1 is all anyone is talking about. We have all been seeing it EVERYWHERE.. clocks say 1.11 or 11.11. I seem to always open up books to page 111. Today is 11/11 and in the wee hours this morning I came downstairs to chat with Debbie and tell her I couldnt sleep at all and it was 1.11 am. It is all over the shop. I know everyone is seeing it too, just though Id share my two pennys.

Oh and I am finally happy with the design of my page. Couldnt see this links for a while as they were the same colour as the background, but all good now.

BFN

Friday, November 11, 2005 - Get this..

2008-08-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

Get this..

Current mood: happy

Someone here just asked me where I was from. I answered 'England'. And he said 'Oh, thats where you all speak 'oui oui' isnt it?'. And I said, 'No, thats France. We speak English in England'. He just kinda grunted and looked at me in disbelief and walked off.

True story I swear.

Friday, November 11, 2005 - Bits and bobs and curious thoughts

2008-08-29T09:34:00.000-07:00

Bits and bobs and curious thoughts

Hello all,

Tis Friday afternoon, the sun is shining and HIM is ablaze with the strains of a mandolin coming from somehwere in the premesis.

This sweet sound has just been replaced with the less melodic untimely bashing of a drum.

Oh well.

Well, Rhett and I have matching photos as our default image as we are so super cool.

I am still thoroughly riveted by Rees Howells - Intercessor. Read it! Great reccommendation thanks Char.

I am soon to enjoy my first ever Thanksgiving and am most excited.

Today I had this incredible revelation about my friends in Wilksboro and Zao water and am well excited about that. Today I also sampled the 'delights' of a Chef B-something raviolli. It was rancid. Yuk Yuk Yuk. I am doing reception till 7, then straight to the bookstore till 11ish or so and am being sustained on said can of toxic waste.

I go home ONE MONTH TODAY!!! Huzzah!

Thursday, November 10, 2005 - Pondering

2008-08-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Pondering

Current mood: indescribable

Well, I recieved a great deal of feedback about my USA v UK debate. No one argued my decision, interestingly, but then we Brits know both how to rock and how to start acts of vandal involving fire, so its quite wise to keep a distance methinks.

Anyway, the feedback was all regarding my general comdeic genius and penmanship. Now, I have been pondering for some time leaving the world of imaginary TV presenting (oh yes dear Daynes' there exists here a tv show also, with my sidekick Chris. Its called the CJ show and its VERY popular. Rather akin to the old S&J radio show, if you recall.) and moving onto the imaginary world of journalism.

Actually, today in all seriousness, I was wondering if any of my friends would be those incredible men/women of God who have biographies written about them. I am sure I know some heroes that will have such an honour. I however would wish to write my own for I fear that a distant author may leave out exciting and essential parts of my life. Perhaps these blogs shall serve as a part of my memoirs. What quality prose to have in ones biography! Ha ha ha. Oh gosh, I really do amuse myself faaaarr to much. I nearly left someone a picture comment today that said 'You are beautiful and radiant like a pregannt woman'. Intened as a compliment, but I deleted before they had a chance to misunderstand me. My humor doesnt travel so well across the pond. But I really genuinely have been praying for me to be funnier. Amongst other things..

So, todays advice is this... Oh my gosh Im fading fast I need coffee... Todays advice is this... keep chickens. They lay eggs and are funny.

Love, Dannelle. As ever.

Tuesday, November 08, 2005 - This may read like a personal email because..

2008-08-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

This may read like a personal email because..

Current mood: accomplished

I feel I have been a bad friend and not remained in decent contact with the 2 most loayal people I have been blessed to meet since being here. Therefore, as way of apology I am posting this blog personally to them, although obviously, everyone else is welcome to read too. I shant deprive you of my interesting life details, for I know it would cause tears and gnashing of teeth.

To my precious, splendid and most dear Chris and Charlotte,

Sorry that I have done somewhat of an Alan and slipped off the face of the planet recently. Time has been somewhat short to email and message and harass, as Im sure it has been for you too, with the new job and baby and all.

I am sorry that Chilis is not as fantabulous as we were hoping.. whats next?

Thanks for the comedic, if not a little close to the mark, emails and messages - fear not, such abuse is water off a ducks back, but thanks for the concern!

So, here I am confused as it is Nov 8th and after 5pm and I am wearing flip flops and a tshirt and emailing you from outside. Warm weather and November do not usually go together being english. Odd.

School is so fun. Jesus is good. Oh and I have finally had time to fully unpack my room, and it looks very bright and fun. My bedrooms are always so crazy and colourful, one lady once saw my room and commented, 'ooh, it looks like a childrens play room'. Yay for me.

Oh and I have a bunch of new photos to show, theres this gret picture where a bunch of us are in and on Rick Joyners golf cart at the bonfire and it makes me laugh. I remember taking that picture, and I didnt ask him, I just clambered on and everyone else followed, smiled for a piccy and then abandoned poor Rick probably feeling bewildered and used!

One of the guys at MSM won a Mini Cooper. How mad is that. He won it like 6 months ago or something and is going to collect it now. I rejoice with him in his blessing. Dan, when you sell it, please may I have a pack of green dentyne? I love that stuff.

Oh, this is exciting news. During my faith course I found this wonderful gas station on 21 heading south past Regent Pkway. Its called Peach Stand somehting or other. They have all this home made food, cakes, cookies, cheeses, vegetables, gas station cappucino and other crazyness. But the cool thing is, they have KRISPY KREME! I have found a supplier like 5 mins from my home! How coolio is that C-C?

Speaking of home, I really am the Queen of the castle.

I go home in 1 month and 2 days and i cannot wait. I am going to eat REAL cheese, see my sis, my nephew, my mummy, my daddy, my bro and my gorgeous Bertie. And then I will fly back with Bertie and have 8 straight hours with him on the plane. Then he is staying for 2 weeks. Can you imagine how excited I am? WOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

Im gonna go invent some strange microwave meal from peas and rice and stiff. Hmm. Pray for me!!

Love you guys, thanks for everything.

Lets see each other SOON and come to my home group and watch a dvd and giggle and eat.

PS what the heck is up with A-Lan.. is he coming? When? Where will he live?

Friday, November 04, 2005 - Dont worry! Panic over!

2008-08-29T09:29:00.002-07:00

Dont worry! Panic over!

Current mood: ecstatic

Karen Pinney is bringing me 2 hot pockets, 1 mountain dew and a candy bar. Hunger no more o daughter of Daynes for your provisions spill forth. Thank you Miss Karen...

- A note to all Brits. Yes, hot pocket is a strange title for a food stuff. But they really do have peculliarly wonderful phrases here. I genuinely have seen several 'clam shacks'. Its a whole new language and it makes me smile a lot. So, hello mr hot pocket, I shall devour you with gusto.

BFN x x

Friday, November 04, 2005 - Last night

2008-08-29T09:29:00.001-07:00

Last night..

Current mood: relaxed

Was a blast. I got my fabulous phat ipod speakers and plugged em in down in the sanctuary at HIM and I with a few other dormies had a 2 hour Leonard fest, dancing and singing and generally wearing ourselves out and I had FUN. LJ rocks.

I love my ipod speakers. They look like a big sausage but they sound really good.

Also, I painted and prayed and was generally very 'cool' for the duration of the entire evening. I really was the kind of person you would love to know.

Im kinda back to myself now.

I AM FREAKING STARVING AND AM GOING TO IMPLODE IN A MINUTE. If you are anywhere near me and reading this before 5pm, please bring me rations and I will pay you in wooden spoons. Thank you.

Friday, November 04, 2005 - Woop de do!

2008-08-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

Woop de do!

Current mood: hungry

Well, today is a good day.. SO much news and excitement..

The mother of my God-daughter is having ANOTHER bambino.. dang it, there is no stopping that Rachel Kiley and her hubby! Number 3 on its way! CONGRATULATIONS!

I am going home NEXT month and am going to see my nephew, now crawling, and my family and my man. Woo.

Also, congratulations Chris and Katie who are getting married and had her ring made by the wonderful Jan warrington (see my photos). Yeehaw!

Today in school we did Christology part ii with the inredible Steve Thompson (I am getting the DVD's and you will enjoy loved ones) and we had all our heads scrambled up. Mindblowing stuff about Jesus being all man and all God. INCREDIBLE.

well, tis all for now....

Sunday, October 30, 2005 - To like or not to like?

2008-08-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

To like or not to like?

Current mood: amused

Suffering with the confusion combination of home-sickness and loving being here, I am in the throes of debating the following:

America - To like or not?

You see I am really so thrilled and privildged to be here and to be meeting wonderful people, attending an awesome school and church and fulfilling a dream I have had for 5 years. But I also terribly miss home and my family and fiancee. I must stress that this is a merry dilema for me; I am so blessed to be torn between to places, to have so many people that love me and 2 places I think of as 'home'. However, it is a debate which needs to be settled none the less and I fear that my British patriotism may make it a some what unfair and one sided argument. I shall try though, to be impartial.

Let the battle commence: England v America

America is annoying because people do not wear dressing gowns. No. the idea of wearing a gown over your pyjamas for the sake of warmth and decency is alien. Indeed, when I wore mine over my night clothes at HIM the other night people thought I was being INDECENT! Americans wear bath robes, so wearing my robe looked 'rude'. But my culture says a robe makes you decent to take out the rubbish, answer the door etc. And they have not even heard of them here. Ugh.

American food is so flipping salty that my mouth is still sore after 2 months. Or so sweet that it enduces a coronary. I miss English food.

However, I am typing this blog in a car park in a car, such is the extent and availablilty of free wireless here, and that HAS to count for something. I am watching the traffic go sailing past (on the wrong side of the road) on the 51 and the sun is setting and I can email. That is cool.

Speaking of traffic, that brings me to another important issue. (Im not even going to bother with the fact that Americans drive badly and have dumb cars that dont drive as well as European cars because I said I would try and make this a fair argument) Why is that here in Charlotte, roads just change name for no reason and deliver all road users into confusion and panic? Why is an exit signposted as a road name right up until the exit when it is suddenly refferred to as a number instead?

But, a list of things that are great about this nation;

Pancakes; Good coffee; MorningStar; Napolean Dynamite; Jessi Donner; Chris and Charlotte Hultquist; Jimmy and Nathan; Rhett and Joel; Dannelle; A-Lan; Flat bed trucks.

Ok, somehting else, everyone here decorates thier homes ALL YEAR ROUND! With banners and flags and all sorts of mess. Its crazy. And you dont pay the price on the tag, you have to add tax at the till and that is confusing.

BUT, Its november in 1 day and I am still wearing flip-flops and that really does rock. And Americans have this wonderful pioneering spirit and warmth. Although, they do have shopping trolleys in charity shops and that is just wierd. And you have to pay for cheque books here. And they spell it check. They spell loads of stuff crazy and use odd phrases. They call trousers pants and that is messed up. And chocolate here is rough as a badger. But delivery pizza is quick and hot and flipping sweet. And come on, they have Target here!

England is cold and grey and damp and we are quite a moany and pasty people, but we have a great public transport service, free health care and Ricky Gervais. No matter how much fun I have here, no matter how I love my firends here and no matter how much I adore the novelty of all this American madness, my heart will always belong to the land where 4 tv chanels are enough for us, where meals last for a few hours and where we eat with both a knife and a fork.

Im sorry America, I love you dearly, but the small Isle of England must win. I wish you all the best for the future and am delighted to be welcomed as a visitor, but I know where I came from...

Feel free to comment..

Thursday, October 27, 2005 - I live in a hotel!

2008-08-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

I live in a hotel!

Current mood: chipper

Heck yes I do!

Its cool, we moved so quick and had a real American man in a big American truck move our gear (thanks Jimmy!)

We will be woken by Leonard tuning up in the mornings.. huzzah! What a treat

Love you all x x x

Wednesday, October 26, 2005 - hard times bring great fruit..

2008-08-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

hard times bring great fruit..

Current mood: crushed

At least thats what Im clinging to.

I miss home, I miss the cold damp grey streets of England. I miss food which isnt so sweet or so salty. I miss my family and my man. I miss times when life was easier and when I was barely convicted ot troubled or challenged.

But self pity stinks, so I thank God that one day I will be back in the grey damp chill of Britain and that my family and man are so faithful and good, and that I will once again enjoy thier company. And I really thank God that He is taking me through this tough rough time and working stuff out of me that really isnt that great and which Im wandering why it is that I am clinging on to it all so hard. Afterall, I want to be chnaged dont I? So why am I fighting it? I am blessed that He loves me enough to discipline me and that He is preparing me for great things. Lord, I am yours, purge me of the sin in me that I may be more like your Son. Break me and put me back as YOU want me. I am yours..

I love you Jesus.

I am more than an overcomer.

Sunday, October 23, 2005 - the wandering cow

2008-08-29T09:20:00.002-07:00

the wandering cow

Current mood: amused

OK, so I admit that I was the one who started the rumour about the cow in the bethany lounge at HIM, but you would be surprised how many people believed me..

Love, Dannelle

Sunday, October 23, 2005 - I really am very funny, Love Dannelle

2008-08-29T09:20:00.001-07:00

I really am very funny, Love Dannelle

Current mood: accomplished

I am a skilled rapper. I am an accomplished knitter. I am seasoned in rat catching.

Lately, my humour often uses the line 'carrying a microwave'.

Generally, cows make very good comedy fodder.

New pictures a coming.. be still my heart, be still.

Sunday, October 23, 2005 - Dishwashers should not catch fire

2008-08-29T09:18:00.002-07:00

Dishwashers should not catch fire

Current mood: thirsty

Chris and Charlottes dishwasher keeps setting fire.

I actually wrote a blog, highly witty and interesting and then accidentaly lost it and cannot be bothered to re-write it as I am tired. So just pretend that you read it and enjoyed it and then we will all be happy.

Ill post a real blog soon.

I am being teased for having monkey lips.

Bye for now,

Karen Penny's Security

Thursday, October 13, 2005 - Chris Hultquist

2008-08-29T09:18:00.001-07:00

chris hulquist

Current mood: chipper

An apology for the hideous photos that Chris keeps posting as his image. That awful one of the starving african children which made it look like he was collecting for Christian Aid is now gone.. You see I told him it was really horrible and he asked if i really didnt like it, and I said that I would rather he have a picture of a dead donkey. So of course he now has a picture of a dead donkey.

I accept the part I have played in this unpleasantness and apologise.

Sunday, October 09, 2005 - Its not as good as the breakfast club..

2008-08-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

Its not as good as the breakfast club..

Current mood: giggly

But its quite good. Funny, bizzare and very quotable.

Good job.

ooh, transfat is bad.. avoid it. It is a kind of fat in lots of foods (cakes and crisps/chips etc) that is a preservative. It is 1 molecule away from being PLASTIC. And when its in your system your body cannot break it down. It is like eating plastic. How vile.

Bye for now, I have some mischief to spread x x

Sunday, October 09, 2005 - Let hilarity ensue

2008-08-29T09:15:00.000-07:00

Let hilarity ensue

Gosh, this week has been so funny here on myspace; first Molly's amazing story, (which made me homesick because she told it the exact way my sister would have done. they are so funny and so similar) and then this fabulous rivalry between Benjamin and Nathan develops. They met last night and discovered that they both considered me to be thier favourite British girl and they were mad at each other and arguing as to who claimed that title first. So now they are bantering over this ridiculous thing and executung this slanging match via myspace. Very funny indeed.

As of now, my next plan is to finally watch Napolean Dynamite, a movie of which I have heard nothing but since I got here at the end of August. I shall let you know my all important verdict..

Coffee is good.

My housemate gets back tonight, hurrah hurrah. Oh, I must also welcome Chris and Charlotte to myspace..

Just popped to American Blockbuster; sorry to dissapoint but its the same as an English one. And I asked for free popcorn and the man said no.

Ok, so things I must do before going home;

Particiapte in a tailgate

Sit on my car in a New York traffic jam - that sounds so fun and sociable

Eat lots of pies

Go to Dollywood

Ill finish up here later peeps, dinner calling x x x

Wednesday, October 05, 2005 - questions

2008-08-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

questions

Current mood: mellow

What does kudos mean?

Why is it 87 degrees in October?

Why am I wearing socks, Im just aggrivating the heat?

Why am I am not in Nathan's top 8?

Why cant a gas fairy come and fill my car up at night?

Why has my pen not been returned to me?

Why cant I rock out and sing like a diva?

Please if you can, at least let me know what kudos means!!

Tuesday, October 04, 2005 - Blog-tastic!

2008-08-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Blog-tastic!

Current mood: artistic

This week gets better; A car full of food; A game of volley-ball; and now, a (I presume) man called Darren.

Someone in the vicinity of my apartment by the apparent name of Darren has wireless and I am therefore blogging care of his kindness. No longer will I have to drive 30 mins of an evening to access the world wide web, I can it enjoy here in the comfort of my own living room all beacue of an annonymous fellow compuer nerd. Great!

Of course for you all, (or the 2 or 3 that read my ramblings) this means more emails, more blogs and more merriment. Lets celebrate!

So far, I have spent the evening painting a bookcase. You see I am seeking out the creative Julia within me. I am worship painting a bookcase and I must say, it is looking good so far. For a child.

My housemate is away this week, helping in the gulf states, so I am home alone. Its rather peaceful here in the 'ghetto' of Charlotte.

Ho hum. Im gonna dance some with the old Jack Johnson. Byeee