On Location

2011-04-11T12:04:00.004+08:00

Last week my wife gave me the best present ever; our first child, a son.

Looking into his sweet face I am overwhelmed with love for this little person and can't help but think how much greater God's is for all of us. I pray that God equips us for the task of raising this little man to be a faithful child of God and a responsible citizen.

On the edge

2011-02-05T17:29:00.002+08:00

The view of the ocean is so changeable here.

Some days you can see Cape Le Grand and the islands in the bay,

other days it looks like we live on the edge of the world.

What is the temperature at your place?

2011-01-28T17:01:00.004+08:00

As you have seen from the photos so far there was big temperature difference from Ontario to Western Australia. The photos below are the evidence.

Clarksburg, Ontario, January 16, 2011

Lake Grace, Western Australia, January 22, 2011

An hour after this photo we drove through a thunderstorm and the temperature went from 42 to 29 in 7 minutes, then slowly climbed up to 40 again before we got home.

It was such a warm welcome back. People ask, "is it hard to adjust." No it's not, 42 is horrible no matter where you were the day before.

Sins, science and saints

2011-01-26T20:49:00.003+08:00

Canadians struggle at times with the Aussie accent, especially if they are not used to it.

One day we were in a bookshop and I ask the lady,

"Do you have a book on the saints?"

She replied, "On sins?"

"No, on the saints," I repeated.

"Oh, on science," she said, and headed off in the direction of the science books.

Desperate to be understood I pulled out my fake North American accent, which had served me so well in the past in similar situations, and repeated my original question. To which she replied, "On the saints, I'm not sure. Let me check."

As an aside to this story, Bec asked another bookstore lady that same question two days later who thought she said science.

Oh Canada

2011-01-26T12:15:00.005+08:00

Last Saturday we arrived home from our wonderful three and a half week vacation in you guessed it: Canada.

It was great spending time with family and friends we don't get to see very often. But we also had days where we did very little but hang out at home, eat food (including many Christmas goodies), fill in cross words and play games.

A few pictures from the trip.

I had to do it. Don't worry, it was only -6.

Rebecca aquatinting herself with the winter time animals.

Are they penguin footprints?

Could it be any prettier.

Our unwanted visitors

2010-10-25T17:25:00.004+08:00

What is a hairy grey-brown noctuid?

Here's a clue. His mates are brown diamondback, nate and bogong.

If you said moth you are correct. Currently there are millions of them here. And that is just in our street! Today we flushed 40 of them out from the gap around our hatchback to stop them from flying into the car when we put in the groceries. Thankfully they are disappearing.

On other matters. The vege-garden is looking well. The broccoli has finished, the carrots are 10-12cm long, tomatoes are flowering and growing well, as are the onions, capsicums, leeks and parsley. Oh, and the poppies are beautiful.

My theory

2010-10-04T21:23:00.002+08:00

I have a theory.

Pregnant women can smell with their eyes. Rebecca can just look at a piece of chicken from... O did I tell you that we are pregnant. Rebecca and I will welcome our little one into the world on April 22 next year. Yeah, as if Good Friday was not going to be busy enough.

So back to my theory, Rebecca only has to see a piece of chicken from 20 metres and she puts her hand over her nose and says, "that smells disgusting."

Ah, the joys of pregnancy.

Latest project

2010-05-27T08:55:00.004+08:00

I asked the confirmation class to make something that reflected there faith in God. As a member of the class I thought it best if I do the same. So I am making a celtic cross out of some Jarrah left over from the house renovations. You will get to see the finished item.

For now here are a few more photos of Esperance.

Looking to Esperance from Wylie Bay

Twilight Beach at sunset

The weather

2010-05-20T09:32:00.003+08:00

Autumn is my favourite time of the year. Last week we had rain, lots of rain, and this weeks weather has been glorious. Cool 10 degree nights with 20-22 degree days. Living is easy in these days.

Thistle Cove, our favourite beach in Cape Le Grand NP.

Our visitors

2010-04-21T16:59:00.002+08:00

Rebecca's Mum and Dad have been with us for a week and we are enjoying their company as much as they are enjoying the scenery of Esperance.

On Saturday we go up to Kalgoorlie for the 25th celebration of the opening of the church building, before going on to Perth and they fly back home.

My Dad got home in time for Easter and he is doing well. Praise be to God.

Big Day

2010-03-16T11:02:00.001+08:00

On Sunday, we had two worship services, one AGM and drove 504 km.

It was a big day.

We love Mondays.

The latest

2010-03-07T16:58:00.003+08:00

Twiggy's Landing, Woody Island

Life got real busy after we were married and I got out of the habit of going to my blog. Sorry for not keeping in contact.

So here is a run down of the last 6 months:

October - we got married and had 4 wedding celebrations.
November - Pastor's Conference in Perth and lots of shopping for furniture.
December - our first Christmas together, Mum and dad came to visit.
January - it got to 47 one day, our air con was broken, we went to Woody Island.
February - Justin and Kelsey (from Canada) came to visit, we went to Albany for two wonderful days.
March - we went to Melbourne to visit Dad and the rest of Kramers.

Thank you all for your prayers and support for our family since Dad's accident. He is getting better and will be moving to a rehabilitation hospital soon. We pray that his head injury has not done much damage.

God bless

Adrian

We is married

2009-10-12T01:30:00.003+08:00

Adrian and Rebecca Kramer now exist. YAY!!

We are at Bec's parents for Thanksgiving Day and will go to our B+B this evening for the first part of our honeymoon.

The day was perfect: the service was wonderful, the rain stopped early in the day to make the photos great and reception was lots of fun. This morning there was the lightest snow falling as we drove to church.

We are both tired but really, really happy.

A & R Kramer

The build up

2009-10-09T01:02:00.002+08:00

What joy it is to be here in Ontario with my darling Rebecca. Long plane flights are not my preferred way of spending time, but they are worth every minute to see my Bec.

The last few things that need to be done before the wedding have come together nicely and the weather today is sunny. The forecast for snow on Saturday has been changed to Sunday. What a tragedy it would be if we were snowed in on our honeymoon! As long as we make our flight on Wednesday.

God's blessings

Adrian

I'm on my way...

2009-10-01T18:27:00.004+08:00

'I'm on my way from misery to happiness...' tomorrow.

Tomorrow afternoon I begin my trip to Canada by going to Kalgoorlie to preach on Sunday. After the service I will fly to Adelaide, stay the night and leave for Canada Monday morning arriving in beloved's arms on Tuesday at 6:11am.

Ain't life grand.

This time next week...

2009-09-29T19:27:00.004+08:00

This time next week I will be in the arms of my beloved. Ontario is 12 hours behind WA time and I will be landing in Toronto at 6:11am. So, by this time, 7:30, I should be through customs and reunited with Rebecca.

I love you Becca. Not long now.

God's blessing to you all.

-Adrian

Guess who?

2009-09-25T12:51:00.006+08:00

Yes, that is me. I have had my glasses for a couple of weeks now and they are doing a great job. The people in church don't look like they left home without combing their hair. They are no longer fuzzy, but clear.

I am very busy at the moment getting everything ready for while I am away and doing the last few things for the wedding. We have waited so long and now it is so close. Only 15 days, 11 hours and 40 minutes until we are married.

Our new shower and bathroom.

The family room and kitchen during the sanding back.

Hello from the future Mrs

2009-09-23T23:09:00.003+08:00

Howdy all! I'm guest blogging for Adrian today.

I've made it back to Ontario from BC. The trip was long and eventful and long. Lots of coffee and salads, fun with friends & family and pictures of dirty windscreens. Oh, did I mention it was long? I drove the 5000 km home in 2 weeks. I took my time for the most part, seeing old roommates and homes. I spent a week of my trip with my brother and his family. I got to go to a good friend (and colleague)'s wedding. And though the trip was tiring (who ever sleeps well on the road?), it was wonderful. My sister Tracey kept me company and sane during the last two days where we covered over 2000 km of the trip. There are a million memories and highlights from a trip like that, especially being out of the car!

Since being back, I've raced around peculiarly humid southern Ontario doing this, that and the other thing - all in the name of wedding planning. We're counting down the days til we get to be together, not to say goodbye again.

Hope you're all doing - sorry - going well.
Rebecca

On the move again

2009-08-17T19:54:00.003+08:00

Things have been quiet on the building front for the last 3 weeks. However, today the gyp-rockers/plasterers/drywallers arrived and things are on the move again.

Considering the poor health of the dining room ceiling, it was decided it should come down, and it did, along with a pile of dirt. Not to worry, the job is forward.

Will it be done by October 21 when my beloved and I return from Canada?

The things you read about

2009-07-22T21:46:00.002+08:00

In breaking news...

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/07/22/2633243.htm

I think the police should be checking all Canadian citizens to see if they have bought a rock off the back of a truck lately. Or maybe someone was looking for cheap paper weights in the economic downturn!

Sweep hard my friends, EH!

100 days to go!

2009-07-02T12:58:00.004+08:00

In 100 days and 13 hours I will meet my darling Rebecca at Faith Desboro and we will be joined together as husband and wife. When we were engaged in January, October 10 seemed so far away and now it is only a couple of months off.

We still need to get some things done but the big items are taken care of.

PS: Happy Canada Day!

The renos

2009-06-23T19:55:00.007+08:00

The house is coming along nicely. The patio is up, new roof is on, the walls and roof of the on suite are done, the garage floor is in and as you can see the wall is going up. Yes, the new and old bricks don't match, they don't have to, the walls will be rendered.

My Wednesday night

2009-06-17T21:15:00.002+08:00

humiliation - make (someone) feel ashamed and foolish by injuring their dignity and self-respect, esp. publicly.

tennis - a game in which two or four players strike a ball with rackets over a net stretched across a court.

Guess what I did this evening? Yep. Play tennis.

Well in the first game my actions could best be described as 'holding a racquet.' 6-1

The second game was better. My 'over the net and within the white lines' count reached double figures. 6-2

In the third game I hit my straps and we put up a good fight. 6-5

Although the night started dismally I ended up recovering some pride.

An en suite

2009-05-29T18:28:00.005+08:00

The digging seems to have stopped and things are going up. The en suite has a shape. I thought about trying out the shower with a bucket in a string, but for the sake of modesty and my neighbors eyesight (possible blinding) I gave it a miss.

My recent excursion

2009-05-28T12:09:00.004+08:00

While the excitement of the renovations continue (more photos soon), that fades away compared to the joy of spending 9 glorious days in Canada with my wonderful fiancee Rebecca. On top of getting lots of wedding planning done we enjoyed fantastic Sushi, beautiful sunsets, the stunning Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island and the finest company of close friends and family.

The highlight was being able to hold Rebecca and speak to her without having to dial a number. Needless to say the 2:30 am farewell at the airport was not fun, but the next time we meet it will be for good. No more good byes! Yay

I love you Rebecca.

Excited!!

2009-04-28T18:53:00.004+08:00

The renovation is underway. Last week the boys moved in and dug the foundations for the builder to make a start. The hole on the left is where the on-suite will go, the garage will be at the street end of the sand pit and the patio will go between the garage and this end of the sand pit.

New toy

2009-04-14T20:42:00.004+08:00

Since being in the parish I have been a bit of a lazy bum and have not spent much time exercising. So to fix that problem I bought a bike, a Giant Upland. I realize that buying the bike does nothing to increase how much I exercise, so i walked the 20 mins down town and rode it back, and I plan to ride it regularly. Now it has been a while since I rode a bike so the experience was interesting, but good. I am surprised how much peddling is required to keep the machine moving forward; aluminum and rubber is surprisingly heavy. Also, I am more accustom to the performance of my Yamaha WRF 400's 65 horse power and not a bicycle powered by a single ass.

And in case you are wondering, no I don't need to loose weight for the wedding.

Changes

2009-04-14T20:14:00.007+08:00

The renovations have begun

This view from the side of the manse shows that the carport and patio have been taken down. The wall with the glass door in it is going to be taken out and a new wall put up on the edge of the raised concrete pad. This will be the dining/family room. The brick garage will go where the car is and the new patio run from the back of the garage 11m into the yard. I have been busily moving plants I want to keep: daffodils, agapanthus, cannas, a small grape fruit tree and roses have been relocated, and so far they are all looking well.

I have been doing some renovations of my own in the backyard to make room for a raised vege garden. No, I'm not becoming Peter Cundall but I do what a good vege garden.

Cheers, Adrian

The big smoke

2009-03-30T18:45:00.004+08:00

Today I got back from spending a week in the city. I travelled the 8 hours to Perth last Monday and spent Tuesday finding a place to have my camera serviced, checking out the city centre for a while and looking through furniture shops for a tv chair. I came back chairless. It seems that my taste in chairs cannot be satisfied, except for lots of money. This is what I would love, but i cannot find.

Wednesday to Friday I spent at my first pastor's conference. My brother's over here are a great bunch of pastor's and I'm looking forward to the next time we get together. Friday night to Sunday we had the WA district Convention at Duncraig. I don't usually find meetings the most interesting place to spend time, but I enjoyed getting to know more people over here and they loved meeting the new pastor. Last night I spent in Katanning at the Pukallus' (the new pastor and his family) and got back at 2pm this afternoon.

I'm tired, excited and happy to be home after a week away. How about that, Esperance is home.

The whitest beaches

2009-02-23T11:37:00.006+08:00

Many a beachside town in Australia may claim to have the whitest beaches in the country but only one beach can claim that title. Lucky Bay near Esperance is the current title holder (click to read article), and much to the disappointment of Queenslanders.

When I visited Lucky Bay I met some 'unlucky', most probably silly, jet-skiers who didn't know much about the dangers of backing into the surf. YAY for the ever vigilant and helpful Esperance fire brigade. I wonder if they gave the fireman a donation, after all, a tow would have been a lot cheaper than a new van.

Our fishing trip

2009-02-18T07:14:00.003+08:00

Over the summer break Brenton, Shirley, Mark and I went fishing for a few days just north of Kingston, South Australia. While we caught quiet a few fish they were all were too small. Jewfish have to be 80cm to keep. The wind was the worst part. One afternoon we got back to the tent to find 5mm of sand on my pillow. All the same, we had a great time in a beautiful place.

Adrian

Those fires

2009-02-11T19:57:00.003+08:00

The recent bush fires in Victoria have shaken us all. The loss of life is tragic and unseen in our history. For those who don't know Victoria so well my family are not in those areas burnt by Saturday's fires.

While we are helpless to restore lives lost, the LCA has launched an appeal to raise funds for those left with nothing but the clothes they wear. We can also pray for the victims who have lost family, friends, property and their community. God is not silent in these times, he speaks through his children who offer any help we can.

Grace and peace to you all.

-Adrian

The first week

2009-02-04T18:33:00.007+08:00

First, sorry about the lack of news.

Second, I love WA! The people are great, the beaches are amazing and weather is beaut. Sure Rebecca is now even further away, but the phone doesn't know the difference.

All considered, I think I will stay for a while.

God's blessings to you and thanks for the best wishes for Rebecca and I.

We are engaged

2009-01-20T04:06:00.003+08:00

I recently asked Rebecca to marry me and she said yes.

It is amazing what a diamond ring and a waterfall can do.

The weather

2008-12-16T18:50:00.005+08:00

Ten days ago I was ordained to be a pastor in Lutheran Church of Australia. It was a wonderful service in the Concordia Chapel and a great day. Since then my furniture and goods have been packed up by the moving company, so my rooms looks a little spartan.

Last Sunday I preached for my first time as a Lutheran pastor and blessed the sacrament. What a day. It seems so strange, I will never again be able to say "when I'm a pastor", because I am.

Tomorrow I'm going to Qld for 5 days to preach in the Alberton Parish where I worked as a youth intern before studying at Sem, and catch up friends and family. I will at my parents place for Christmas and the new year. Just a lazy few weeks before starting in parish.

By the way, as predicted the temperature for ordination was perfect, 22.

Christmas blessings to you all

Adrian

The weather

2008-11-29T09:28:00.004+08:00

I am a fan of global warming. Usually the temperature for ALC graduation is something in the range of 35-42. This year, and maybe for the first time in history, it is going to be in the teens, 19 in fact. According to my calculations this is because of global warming!

I wonder if I will have to eat my words next week at ordination? It could be in the 40s and my theory be mocked.

Keep cool

Adrian

Graduation

2008-11-29T04:43:00.004+08:00

By 3pm today I will no longer be a student. I will graduate from Australian Lutheran College with a bachelor of theology and bachelor of ministry. That means I will be unemployed. Thankfully the people of Esperance and Kalgoorlie have promised to give me a house to live in, and I said I would help out around the church while I am there.

Until I go to WA in January I will visit family and friends, spend Christmas at home, go fishing /camping with my brothers, go to two weddings and spend 11 days with my girlfriend.

Only 40 days left now Bec.

Adrian

Incredible

2008-11-25T05:38:00.003+08:00

This morning while driving to the chiropractor my eyes almost fell from their sockets, petrol for 99.9 cents. So on the way home I filled up my car and for the first time in I can't remember how long the litres were more than the dollars.

I'm not sure how long this will last, but enjoy it while you can.

Adrian

I'm all done

2008-11-13T17:16:00.005+08:00

Five years ago I came to ALC to find out if what people said about me being a pastor was true. As a high school dropout I came fearing the study. How could I do everything required of me? How do you write an essay? Am I going to last the distance?

For the first year I told God that if you want me to be a pastor you are going to have to help out, big time! Surprise, surprise, I liked my studies and found that God not only helped me but I was better at study than I ever thought possible. St Paul expresses it in this way:

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 3:20

Praise be to God for helping me and growing me into the man to whom the church says "we will ordain you Adrian." I give my deepest thanks to all those people who have helped me along the way with encouraging words, a listening ear, money, and for being a friend when I needed you most. You probably don't even know that you helped me, but thank you.

Now begins the process of buying furniture, finding a removalist, buying a car and saying good bye to the place and people that have been a pivotal part of my life for the last five years.

And a new adventure is just about to begin.

Blessings

Adrian

I drink water too

2008-11-10T21:20:00.005+08:00

Two posts ago I reported on the inundation of engagements here at Sem and made the comment that 'there must be something in the water around here.' Well - I know, a strange choice of words when talking about water - I have been drinking some of the local Adam's ale myself and have caught at least the slightest bug that has been going around.

Hello Rebecca

I look forward to seeing you in January

Only 58 days to go

Now I can tell you

2008-10-19T18:14:00.005+08:00

Last Monday us final years had our interviews with the College Presidents so they can get to know us better in order to place us in our first parish.

32 hours later I opened an envelope in the National president's office to discover that next year I will be the pastor in the Esperance/Kalgoorlie parish in Western Australia.

WOW, I am excited!!!!

While five of us were placed on Tuesday, two families are still waiting and may only find out in 2 weeks. I hope the waiting is not too long.

Adrian

There is something in the water

2008-10-08T12:25:00.004+08:00

Engagements are everywhere. First of all Matthias and Julie were engaged a few weeks ago, and just this last weekend 3 more people living in Catharine Court were engaged.

Michael and Maria

Tim and Lauren

Carl and Krista

There must be something in the water round here.

The only thing happening with the water in unit 1 is its coming up through the floor! While vacuuming on Monday I noticed a wet patch on the carpet. On Tuesday it looked like our lounge room was going to be jack hammered up to get to the pipe. Thankfully we didn't wake this morning to find our apartment floating on Welly Square and the plumber fixed the problem without getting out any heavy machinery. But the fan is running 24/7 to dry the carpet.

Keep dry, Adrian

The things you see

2008-10-07T19:07:00.005+08:00

When going on long trips I can recommend that you take plenty of stops and don't drink too much coffee. One every 2 hours is stacks. Having broken these rules on Sunday afternoon I thought I was seeing things when I saw an elephant in a trailer near Tailem Bend. However to show my friends that i was not hallucinating I shot it... with my D40x

Thanks Rach for teaching me about photoshop.

Adrian

A big week

2008-09-15T18:55:00.007+08:00

What a week it has been.

Last Thursday my flat mate for the last 4.5 year left to do his vicarage in Springwood NSW. It has been strange not having Paul around. No random discussions on eco-theology (his honors topic), and no important questions like "what wine will go with that?"

On the bright side Julie Anne, my new flat mate, was here one night and she gets engaged! It's all happening here at the moment. People moving out, people moving in, people getting engaged... I wonder what exciting event waits around the corner for me?

God bless you Julie and Matthias as you embark on the wonderful journey of wedding planning then marriage.

Adrian xo

Fresh Sheets

2008-09-13T15:41:00.002+08:00

I love the convenience of using clothes dryers in winter. But what I like more is the feel and smell of air dried cloths and sheets. They are crinkly to fold and feel so fresh to put on. And there is something special about getting into bed the sheets are washed. It is like wiggling your way between layers of filo pastry.

I love the small pleasures God provides for us everyday.

How about you? What small things make your day...

Thinking back

2008-09-07T12:15:00.003+08:00

On Saturday it was 12 months ago that I arrived in Desboro to begin my vicarage. I didn't know all the wonderful blessings God had in store for me. And today is 91 days until ordination and a new adventure will begin. God really is a fantastic tour director.

Adrian

They're home

2008-09-04T20:01:00.003+08:00

I have just spoken to my Mum and Dad who arrived back in Australia this morning from their trip to Canada for Brenton and Shirley's wedding. Before flying out for Australia they went on a 7 day Alaskan cruise. Dad described the ship as a "feedlot for people." Maybe they will have to live on cornflakes and bread for the next week?

Welcome home Mum and Dad, I hope you sleep well.

Happy Father's for Sunday Dad

God's blessings

Love Adrian

A new toy

2008-09-03T20:43:00.002+08:00

You may have noticed the lack of photos on my blog lately. Well it is not because I haven't been taking photos, but that they are too big to put on my blog. So, because I am getting more into photography and my old computer is full (in Canada recently it refused to down load some photos because there was not enough room) I decided to but a new computer. You can see a what it looks like here. It will take me a while to get up to speed with my new machine, so you might have to wait a while yet.

I'm looking forward to showing you more of what I see though the lens of my camera.

Adrian

The home straight

2008-08-28T13:07:00.002+08:00

I have just started my last trimester of study. Five years ago this point seemed so far away, and now it has arrived. Although I have loved the journey, I have been looking forward to the end.

I think its time for a new challenge.

Back to work

2008-08-20T20:45:00.005+08:00

I made it safely back to Australia, just. When we landed in Melbourne from Auckland we had to sit in the plane for 50 mins waiting for the baggage system to be repaired. So when we got of the plane I had to jump the customs line to catch my flight to Adelaide. I made it, but it was a bit hairy for a minute or two.

Being in Canada with my family was great. I loved spending so much time with my sister Debra, and showing my parents around the part of Canada I know well was a blessing for me. I wonder what country we shall get together in next year?

Such a long plane trip is doing funny things to sleep pattern. I feel tired at night, but no matter how early or late I go to bed I still wake up early and ready to go. I'm sure it will settle down soon.

Adrian

Grey/Bruce adventures

2008-08-05T09:58:00.001+08:00

We have just spent the most wonderful 5 days with the people of Faith Desboro. Catching up with my close friends has been an amazing experience. As we left today driving, along side of the 7 ft high corn crops, we all had damp eyes. Again I would like to thank everyone who opened their hearts to me and my family. Returning to Canada has confirmed that vicarage was more than just a practical part of my study, it was one of the highlights of my life.

On a similar note, at the Horse Shoe competition last year I was paired up with the champion from the last 5 years, Bill Kuhl. And the day ended as expected, the champion carried the novice to the winners podium. This year Bill could not compete in the Klages trophy and I was paired with Julie Hachey and with her help I successfully held my title of Klages Horseshoe champion. Now the people of Desboro have told me that I will have to return next year to defend my title. Maybe if they pay half the airfare and let me preach that day....

Oh and if I get a feed of pig tails at a potluck that might sweeten the deal.

From the North

2008-08-02T04:05:00.002+08:00

We are having a great time traveling around Grey/Bruce Counties catching up with friends from vicarage and showing my family the sights. We are all tired from the flight which went fine but was long. The weather is real nice, about 25 degree days. A lot like our springs, just a little more humid.

Cheers, Adrian

Packing

2008-07-27T20:49:00.003+08:00

I am all packed and I leave tomorrow morning for Melbourne to stay the night at Brenton and Shirley's place with Mum and Dad. On Tuesday morning we will meet Debra at the airport and fly out for Toronto at 11am, arriving at 11pm the same day.

No, Toronto is not 12 flying hours from Melbourne, it is about 16, plus the waiting at airports it will be a long day.

Adrian

Winter

2008-07-22T20:58:00.003+08:00

July is the coldest month of Australia's winter. And in the past I have described certain days as 'freezing!' But after spending a winter in Canada the term freezing has taken on a new dimension: freezing means ice and snow. And although we don't have snow and ice in Adelaide, Sunday was yucky walking to my car after church when it was 12 degrees, and the wind blasting the spitting rain in my face, I just couldn't bring myself to say it was freezing.

Adrian

I'm still here

2008-07-14T14:24:00.013+08:00

It has been a while since I have blogged. I haven't been feeling the best since starting back in class. Settling back into the routine is difficult. Things have looking up since our mid trimester two week break started. I have finished one assignment, have a good start on another and will finish a third later this week.

I have spent most days working, but I am going to the Barossa Valley on Wednesday wine tasting. Yummo! I have tried wines from around Australia, and a few overseas, but I think the Barossa has the best reds, so I'm looking forward to the trip.

In just over two weeks I will going to my second favourite country in the solar system: Canada. My brother Brenton will be marrying Shirley in Vancouver. I have the privilege of preaching at their wedding as well as showing Mum, Dad and my sister Debra around Grey/Bruce county to see where I did vicarage. I'm excited to see my friends again. Who knows when I will see again?

See you Canucks in a few weeks eh!

Adrian

My weekend

2008-06-12T16:18:00.004+08:00

Last weekend on the farm was great fun. We got our hands dirty on the Saturday working with the cattle, including the calves as you can see.

The foggy mornings, eating Mums fine fare, driving around the farm in the ute with Dad, talking with my siblings about work, life, food and hunting was all good for my soul. And i got to bring some of it back with me. One of Mum and Dad's apple trees went silly this year and produced 160kg of apples. So they sent two big boxes with me back to Adelaide to use and give away to my Sem mates.

By the way, i got two votes for my photo in the facebook competition. I didn't take it to win a prize, but to preserve a memory.

Blessings,

Adrian

Going home

2008-06-04T18:40:00.009+08:00

I arrived back in Australia 3 weeks ago, but I haven't seen my family yet. So with the long weekend coming up I am going to my parents farm at Edenhope, Victoria.

Going back to the farm connects me the years I spent farming between leaving school and studying at Sem. 'You can take the boy out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the boy.'

Being on the farm recharges my batteries like nothing else can. I am looking forward to sitting in the same room as my family, driving around the farm looking at the cows and calves, and getting my hands dirty doing whatever it takes. Being a city boy these days I love going home to the farm: there is no traffic noise and the water smells and tastes like water. Not like a shower cleaning product!

I'm looking forward to the weekend.

Enjoy your long weekend (sorry Canucks)

Adrian

2008-05-31T14:14:00.003+08:00

As many of you know I love my photography. So, when I saw on facebook that I could enter a photography competition I jumped at the chance. The current theme is vehicles and I entered three photos like this one.

It was taken from the Auckland airport on the way back to Australia. We left LA at 5:30pm Sunday and arrived in NZ at 5:30am Tuesday, just before the sun came up.

I will let you know how I go.

Adrian

Adapting

2008-05-26T12:27:00.004+08:00

Many of you will know that when I went to Canada I regularly wrote 'you know you are in Canada when.' Well, moving back home after living overseas for an extended time means that adjustments have to be made and old things look new. So...

You know you are in Australia when:

You use the wiper controls (mounted on the left side of the steering column) to show other drivers which direction you are turning
You use the indicator control (found on the right side of the steering column) to put the car into park
The price of petrol (not gas) is $1.55 and diesel $1.82. Canadian $1.47 and $1.72 respectively

Blessings to you all

Adrian

The Hills in Autumn

2008-05-18T19:37:00.008+08:00

After church today my mate Paul and I went for a drive in the Adelaide Hills to take in their Autumn beauty and to give my camera a run in the Australian landscape, given that up to now it has lived on a Canadian diet. And what a wonderful afternoon it was. Unlike a lot of South Australia the hills are very green, the vines have dropped their leaves, some of the native flowers are out and the roads are as windy as ever. A vista around every corner. It was a relaxing way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

A typical hills scene: vines and native bush

I think the horse was admiring the sun set also

Adrian xo

I'm back

2008-05-14T16:51:00.002+08:00

Well, 36 hours after leaving Marmion I arrived at my unit in North Adelaide on Tuesday morning at 10:30. I was welcomed at the airport by a placard waving crowd of four. I was tired and as promised the first thing I did was have a shower, then the unpacking and the telling of stories began.

I will have more to say later

Love, Adrian XO

The trip back

2008-05-12T08:21:00.005+08:00

The first leg of my return to .au is complete. I am sitting in LAX waiting 5.5 hours until my flight to NZ leaves. Catching the plane this morning was a bit hairy. The scheduled leaving time was 12:55pm. We arrived at Toronto half an hour earlier than planned and discovered the flight was due to leave at 11:55. I rushed as much as I could and I was running for the boarding gate heard the final call for Air Canada flight 799. I boarded at 11:45.

Many people have asked me, "what is the first thing will when you get home?" I have given varying answers, but I can now give you the final answer: have a shower!!! After traveling for 32 hours I'm sure my friends will appreciate me not smelling like a gym towel.

Take care

PS: thanks for leaving early this morning Phil.

Adrian xo

Driving in a snow storm

2008-05-09T02:12:00.009+08:00

Before I leave Canada I must tell my aussie friends what a driving in a snow storm is like. The following description must be performed to get a full understanding of driving in a snow storm.

Go to your tv and pull out the the antenna cable
Turn on the tv
When snow has appeared on the screen get on your knees and push your nose against the glass and try and see the edge of the road. Can you see it? No. Good.
Place your hands on the side of the tv, or even better, if you have a tv cabinet grab hold of the sides of the cabinet. This is now your steering wheel.
While keeping your nose on the screen (which is now your windscreen) and hands on the wheel try and feel the vibration of the car driving on the edge of the road and heading for the ditch. If you can feel the car leaving the road, correct its path by gently steering in the opposite direction .

If you are laughing insanely and thinking to yourself "what am I doing this for?" then, and only then have you entered the mind of someone driving in a snow storm. Remember, if you stop you might be hit by another car or even worse, a snowplough.

Happy driving

Adrian

Close encounter

2008-05-08T00:35:00.009+08:00

Last night I arrived home late and was getting my things out of the car when I heard something rustling in the bushes along the side of the house. I watched and waiting to see what would appear. To my surprise a skunk darted out of the bushes and walked along the edge of the garden about 6 metres from me. I have been well taught and did not make any sudden moves but let the little critter go on it way.

Adrian

Farewell Sunday

2008-05-07T03:22:00.003+08:00

On Sunday I preached my last sermon for vicarage at Faith Desboro. The 11am service was followed by a potluck (which one of the young people said must mean 'try one of everything' in German) and a farewell program that involved much singing, reminiscing, laughing and a few tears.

It was an extraordinary day. To hear so many people say many nice things about me was overwhelming. Can everything they say be true? Truly God has used me in this place to speak his word to his people, who are also my blessed friends.

I was struggling to know what to say that made my gratitude for everything the people of Faith have done for me sound genuine. Just saying thank you didn't seem enough. A friend said, ‘speak from your heart’. So I did and I managed to say everything I wanted to say.

To wind down from the emotional high of my farewell I went home and gave my new camera lens and spin. I photographed the flowers in a bouquet from church. I’m happy with my new toy.

Blessings to you all.

May you friends know how much you love them, as I know my friends love me.

Adrian xo

Thoughts of home

2008-05-01T21:04:00.009+08:00

Well, the 'Return to Australia Clock' has ticked into single figures. I only have 9 days left until I climb aboard that tin bird and return to the southern hemisphere.

I have not been thinking much about going back home until last Saturday night. I went to bed early and started thinking, what is the first thing I will do when I get back to my unit? Sleep for two days? Visit my friends? Go and sit in the park across the road from my unit where I often go and talk to God? Eat a pie and sauce?... That was the end of getting to sleep early.

The jury is still out, but I will be glad to get off the plane.

Adrian

Spring, Spring, Spring

2008-04-21T23:56:00.011+08:00

Spring has sprung, the grass is riz and i don't have to wonder where the boidies is. They are in Ontario because the weather is fine and dandy. The Cardinals, Canada Geese, Red Winged Black Birds, Golden Finches, Turkey Buzzards and many more have returned to Canada after spending winter in the warmer southern climes.

The days are glorious, 20-25 degrees, sunny all day long and just the a slight breeze. I didn't know Canada could be so beautiful without snow.

For you mum,
some daffodils i met on the way home from church

Adrian XO

Thoughts on leaving

2008-04-17T20:54:00.005+08:00

Last Sunday i was back here at Faith after spending the previous Sunday with the people at the Moncton Lutheran Church in New Brunswick. Although i was only gone for 10 days it felt like a month. I had the feeling that i had returned home after a long absence. Desboro has been my home for the last 8 months and the people of Faith my family.

Leaving Australia was hard, but going home may prove more difficult than i thought.

Adrian

The trip

2008-04-10T04:30:00.010+08:00

4 people, 5 provinces, 10 days, 4811 km

Yesterday (Tuesday) we arrived home safely after our whistle stop tour of the Maritimes. I am more informed about Canadian culture (the French influence), food (poutine, escargot, genuine French onion soup and taffy), history (Arcadian) and people (maritimers). It would have been better to see it all in summer, but we made the best of the weather we had.

Now to catch up on sleep.

God Bless,

Adrian XO

Spring is sprung

2008-04-08T21:43:00.003+08:00

Today is going to be the warmest day for the year, 18 degrees in Desboro. Soon the grass will be green, leaves on the trees, the robins singing and flowers blooming; let allergy season begin.

Blessing for the Easter/spring season.

Adrian XO

On the road

2008-04-05T21:43:00.008+08:00

Since visiting Quebec City we have been to Beresford and Moncton and New Brunswick, the snow banks in town are 2-3 metres high. All records have been broken this year with 492cm of snow.

Gerry and Yvonne's place where we stayed in Beresford

We crossed the 12.9km bridge into Prince Edward Island - the potatoe capital of Canada - and went to Charlottetown.

The Confederation Bridge to PEI

Then down to Halifax Nova Scotia and now back in Moncton. After going to church tomorrow we will probably go back to Quebec City, our favourite place so far and wander around the streets soaking up the sights, the French Canadian atmosphere, and the coffee.

Au revoir,

Adrian

Quebec

2008-04-01T20:14:00.007+08:00

Yesterday we went to the Ice Hotel near Quebec City and waled around Quebec City. The ice Hotel is only open for a limited season of course, but a very beautiful place. The hotel includes 36 rooms, 3 include a fire place that emits 0 heat, a bar, a chapel, an ice slide and beautiful sculptures.

The second bar at the Ice Hotel

Quebec City is 400 years old this year and the only walled city in North America. It was wonderful to wander around the old part of the city and take in the architecture, shopping and views.

The Frontenac Hotel

A Quebec specialty is Poutine; chips, gravy and cheese curds. My new mate Morris loved it. I am told the Poutine we had was not the best, but it was ok.

Today we head for New Brunswick along the Saint Lawrence Strait.

Cheers, Adrian

Skidoo

2008-03-30T00:58:00.004+08:00

After breakfast this morning i went for a ride on my neighbours skidoo. Getting out in the bush while the frost was still making everything sparkle like diamonds was wonderful.

On Sunday i leave for a ten day trip with friends to New Brunswick on Canada's Atlantic coast. I got my new camera on Friday and i am looking forward to taking lots of pictures, which i will share with you.

Easter blessings

Adrian

Only in Canada

2008-03-11T00:37:00.023+08:00

Canadians love to play golf and will not let the weather conditions dictate when they can play.

In Canada the weather has reached its coldest when the icicles start growing up from the ground. Here is a little one just starting.

This is a picture of a mature one that has grown up to the spouting just outside my front door.

You know it is almost spring in Canada, not when the beers come out, because they drink beer all year round, but when you need a cooler (esky) to keep the beers from rising above 0.

We didn't catch any fish, but my tan looks great.

Another sign that spring is on the way is when that headers start harvesting the snow before it melts.

Adrian

Spring, not quiet

2008-02-28T21:32:00.005+08:00

What a beautiful day. The bright shinning sun is lighting up the brilliant blue sky, it could almost be spring... except it is -25 this morning.

It is still beautiful though

Adrian xo

Why I Love Ontario

2008-02-28T01:15:00.011+08:00

This is a poem a friend gave me yesterday

It's winter in Ontario
And the gentle breezes blow,
70 miles per hour at 52 below!

Oh, how I love Ontario
When the snow's up to your butt.
You take a breath of winter air
And your nose is frozen shut.

Yes, the weather here is wonderful,
I guess I'll hang around.
I could never leave Ontario,
'Cause I'm frozen to the ground.

Don't worry Mum, spring will come before i have to fly home.

Adrian

Ok eh!

2008-02-21T05:58:00.009+08:00

I now feel more Canadian than ever before and it is all thanks to Bob and Doug McKenzie's movie Strange Brew. For the Aussies, I would call it the Canadian equivalent of The Castle. Strange Brew includes wonderful Canadianisms as 'hoser' (a loser), 'take-off' (go away), 'beer' (beer) and 'eh' (ay in Qld).

Bob and Doug

You know you are in Canada when:

your breath turns to ice on the windscreen when you get into the car in the morning
you following your friends home from an evening service and the snow is falling so heavy their tail lights disappear, and they are only 50m in front of you

My first blizzard

2008-01-31T22:01:00.000+08:00

Yesterday (Wednesday) i awoke to a howling wind and radio reports that most roads in area were shut. The wind was gusting to 100 kph, blowing the snow and reducing visibility to zero at times. The temperature was -9, but the wind chill made it -25. All the schools were shut as were many businesses. A dangerous day to be on the roads. So i stayed home for the day, did some reading and caught up on some sleep.

If you have never experienced -25, and most of my friends back home have not, you may wonder what it feels like. The first thing is that the cold air kind of tickles your throat and lungs making you cough and you breath slower to make it stop, and any uncovered skin feels like there is an ice cube on it.

Invigorating indeed!!

The down wind side of my car

A new sport

2008-01-30T01:56:00.000+08:00

I have taken up a new sport, and it does not require me to master skating as ice hockey would, or cost a fortune like a ski doo would, but it does require skill and uses more energy than you might think. I am part of a curling team. For the Australians who don't know what curling it is best if follow this link; curling . Last week was my first game and we won 9-7. Curling is big in Canada and people of all ages play it. It is included in some school sport curriculum's.

Adrian

More snow

2008-01-22T05:23:00.000+08:00

Over the last four days we have had 25-35 cm of snow. Winter is looking at her best again.

You know you are in Canada when:

you spend the first 15 minutes after arriving at church clearing the snow off the footpath and entry way
you leave you water bottle in the car during the day and it freezes
the roads are better to drive on in winter because the potholes have frozen over
your friends have stories about hitting deer with their car and not kangaroos
many people don't know what a fortnight is
after church you have to remove 10 cm of snow from your car

your neighbour's dog looks more wolf than poodle

This is Shamus and despite his wolf like appearance he is real friendly.

Keep warm and keep shoveling

Adrian

2008-01-20T00:47:00.000+08:00

This mornings drive into church was a hairy one. It was snowing when i left home, but only 1 km down the road visibility went from 500m to 100m, or less. The snow was sticking to the windscreen and i only had a hole the size of a football to look through. At those times the focus is to stay on the road and on the right side of the road. Two hours later, the sun was shining.

The view from the church door

A question for Canadians: if it is raining heavy it is said to be "raining cats and dogs", what is heavy snow called?

Adrian XO

PS: For those who don't know, you can leave a comment on my blog even if you don't have a google account. Just click other or anonymous and leave your name at the end of your comments.

It's back

2008-01-13T01:59:00.001+08:00

Yay, the snow has returned. When i looked out my lounge room window this morning i was excited to see that the snow is back. This is much better. I didn't travel half way around the world to have an Australian winter.

A photo i snapped of the Sachs family's farm yard this morning.

Adrian

Where has the snow gone?

2008-01-08T21:54:00.000+08:00

On Sunday temperatures lifted to 4 degrees and it started to rain. Yesterday we had a high of 11 and this morning most of the snow is gone. There are only little bits of snow left here and there. Winter seems to have gone on vacation.

Whiteface

2008-01-08T01:23:00.000+08:00

On Thursday and Friday we skied Whiteface mountain at Lake Placid, the sight of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. The mountain is about 1km in height from the bottom of the gondola to the top of the highest ski run. The first day was -22 when we started skiing, but the sun was shinning making it a beautiful day. I had five layers under my jacket to keep warm, but i had to take my jumper off at lunch time because I was too hot. The skiing was great, there were plenty of runs for me to choose from. I kept off the hardest runs, but did go to the top once.

Whiteface from a distance

I'm the one in the red jacket. The gondola went 2/3's of the way up the mountain.

Our group from the top of the gondola. From the left Philip, Adam, Me, Laura, Steve, John, Andrew, Emilie.

Steve and Emilie; check out the backdrop.

Looking to the top of Whiteface. I skied down the run on the left.

My time at Whiteface was brilliant. The skiing was great, even though i am physically exhausted and have muscles that never want to don skis again. The hardest part was getting my legs working on day two. I crashed twice with the only injury being to my pride.

Thank you to the Sachs/Hachey clan for inviting me to join them on their annual ski trip.

Blessings,

Adrian XO

My skiing holiday

2008-01-08T01:14:00.001+08:00

Last Wednesday I drove with a group down to Lake Placid, Upper New York State for four days holiday. At the Canadian/US boarder I was pulled aside for closer inspection. Thankfully a search of my person was not necessary and after 45 mins of being mucked around we were again on our way.

Some hours later I was asked for my ID when buying beer at a supermarket. At the age of 36 made my day, especially seeing that 21yo Laura was not asked for her ID.

After 14.5 hours of traveling, shopping and sitting at the US boarder our car arrived at the chalet; we swapped traveling stories with the others, had dinner and settled into our accommodation.

Our chalet and garage/gym.

I'm looking forward to the new three days.

Adrian

PS: The Canadian version of beach volley ball.

Christmas

2008-01-02T05:35:00.000+08:00

I must apologize for ignoring my blog over Christmas. It has been very busy with the many worship services and Christmas celebrations that have made my Canadian Christmas special. I will be bringing you up to speed on my Christmas adventures over the next few weeks.

I will start by showing off my new skill; skating. On Sunday afternoon i donned ice skates for the first time and with the help of my instructor Cheryl i managed to stay upright. More over, with Cheryl's constant instructions "just take small steps" i felt that i was actually skating, even though i didn't have a go on my own. Last night the youth went skating and i was solo from the beginning and i didn't fall once. Almost.

Tomorrow i am going with a group from the church to Lake Placid, New York State, for four days skiing. Nice. I will keep you posted.

New Year's blessings to you all

Adrian XO

A white Christmas

2007-12-25T01:09:00.000+08:00

Last year this part of Ontario had a green Christmas. There was snow before Christmas, but rain and higher temperatures melted it. This year was threatening to be a repeat of last year. Early last week he had plenty of snow, but warmer temperatures (anything above 0 is counted as warm) with lots of wind and some rain melted much of the snow. Thankfully mr. sub zero returned late Sunday, stopping the melt and brought some snow pellets making the countryside white again.

YAY for a white Christmas

Christmas blessings to you all as you celebrate the birth of our Saviour Jesus.

Adrian XO

Hit the slopes

2007-12-16T03:23:00.000+08:00

Yesterday i put my season pass to Blue Mountain Resort to the test. I went with two mates skiing for the first time since the season started and my first ski in about 8 years. I didn't fall over, but today my legs are a little tired from using muscles that have not seen action for a some time. It was fun; the chilling wind on my face, the beautiful view over southern Georgian Bay from the top of the mountain and the gut wrenching terror of flying down the mountain side, legs ready to cramp up, struggling to turn and wondering what is softer, the trees or the snow? Thankfully i did survive and i look forward to mastering the slopes of Blue Mountain.

Next challenge, skating.

Adrian XO

Christmas is coming

2007-12-11T01:37:00.000+08:00

Yesterday i went hunting and came home with prey in hand: a Christmas tree. I went out with two families and from a 2 acre block selected my tree, felled it and with help of a friends trailer took my prize home.

Me and my tree

The afternoon was also the occasion of my first snow ball fight. I came under the fire of the wily Pastor Dunlop who has a no-holes-barred approach to snow ball fighting. His sneakiness is faultless and his younger days playing baseball has given him an accurate arm. Pastors children have inherited a fare share of their fathers passion for snow warfare. When hit with canon fire from the hand of Adrian Dunlop i found that snow can indeed go up ones nose. At the end of the afternoon i had a fine Christmas tree, wet jeans, pockets full of snow and a sweat up that rendered the sub zero temperatures harmless.

The Dunlop's and their tree

Dogs love snow and the resident tree farm dog, Tucker, is a snow nut continually whining for us to throw our valuable ammunition his way so he could launch himself skyward and capture the frosty missile.

Tucker in action

Christmas is getting close and the snow is getting deeper. The famous Christmas song that talks of dreaming of a white Christmas will son be my reality. YAY for snow.

Blessings,

Adrian XO

The continued joys of snow

2007-12-05T01:06:00.000+08:00

New experiences abound in a land where ice falls from the sky in fluffy little bits. My days starts with starting my car before scraping any ice off the windscreen and brushing the snow off the windows .

Last night i had to give my screen door handle a bang with my windscreen ice scrapper because the mechanism was frozen. Last week i felt a new record low, -13. It didn't feel so cold, the sun was shining and there was no wind: a beautiful morning. I'm told that it will get alot colder than -13.

Snow buildup on the ground is a bit of a yo yo affair. Last Thursday and Friday we had alot of snow, then on Saturday the temp lifted and it rained melting most of the snow. Then it started snowing again on Sunday and Monday. So at the moment we have about 30cm of snow. But the snow is dry so the wind blows it into piles. Just outside my kitchen window the ground is bare, but 10 metres over behind a tree there is a bank 1 metre high.

Last week i drove through my first 'white out.' The wind was blowing the snow across the road, so much so that at one point for 5 seconds all i could see was white: scary stuff. The key is to keep the steering wheel straight and slowly brake.

You know you are in Canada when you wear a toque to stop your ears from freezing. For the Aussies, that's a beanie.

Earlier on I mentioned the snow blowing roster at church. Well this is Bill Sachs blowing the snow from the church car park. For some reason Sandra chose to walk alongside of the tractor. Youthful exuberance i assume.

Winter blessings to you all,

XO Adrian

Snow storm

2007-11-29T02:19:00.000+08:00

Yesterday we had a snow storm. It was snowing, horizontally!! The wind was also blowing the snow on the ground so the visibility was down to 80 metres here and worse in other places resulting in a 16 car pile, up as well as many people slipping of the road. It was not so different to a dust storm; except the temperature was not 35, there is no tumble weed, the air was white not red and there was no mess to clean up, the snow melts or you just shovel it away from the door.

To you who live in .ca keep warm, for those in .au stay cool.

Adrian XO

What a day

2007-11-23T23:40:00.001+08:00

Yesterday it snowed and last night it was -7, so this morning everything is covered in diamonds. The trees, the grass, the fences, everything is sparking. It was a beautiful drive to church this morning to check my emails.

Yesterday i got a few snaps of the snow.

Snow needs to be kept short too!

Picnic anyone?

Today I'm going to town to laze around, because it is my birthday. Enjoy your day.

God bless

Adrian xo

Snow storm

2007-11-22T21:53:00.000+08:00

Today is the first snow storm of the season, albeit a mild one. A snow storm is a mixture of snow (of course) , rain, ice pellets, strong winds and sub zero temperatures.

So to the joy of 20,000 school children, school was canceled today in the Muskoka area.

I drove on a snow covered road for the first time, and because i am writing this blog you can see that i made it safely. Driving in the church carpark was like driving on pillows; no noise at all. I suppose that is what driving in heaven will be like, clouds look the same as fluffy snow.

Here are some things i found interesting.

For that quick snack to keep your going.

Is this where Bobcat Goldthwaite takes a bath?

This is one way of reserving your parking spot at the mall.

It is no wonder i haven't liked any of the Canadian whites i have tried.

Have yourselves a wonderful 24 degree day in Adelaide and i will do the best i can to enjoy my -2 snow storm.

Blessings

Adrian XO

Over night

2007-11-16T22:01:00.000+08:00

As forecast the snow came down last night. Looking out of the window this morning i was greeted with whiteness, and it is so nice. The overnight temperature was -2 and the high for today is 2. The 31 forecast in Adelaide may be nice, but it is not as pretty as snow.

This is my house from the mailbox.

Enjoy the weather wherever you are today.

XO Adrian

Pastors and deacons conference

2007-11-16T06:49:00.001+08:00

I have been on the road again. Pastor and i spent three days in St Catharine's at the Pastors and Deacons Conference. I was surprised and delighted at the different nationalities of the pastors. On the first night i was asked to join a group partaking in refreshments. In the room were Lutheran pastors who were born in Brazil (x3), Nigeria, USA, Germany, Madagascar, England and one from Australia. What a great bunch of blokes.

A highlight of the conference was the worship. The conference was held at Mt Carmel Retreat, a Catholic retreat centre. The chapel was beautiful and the acoustics amazing. The first night i didn't sing much of the first hymn, i just listened to 60 male voices (the few ladies present could not be heard) fill the chapel with sweet praise rising to God. WOW!

From the conference centre we could see part of the Niagara river, so a walk to the falls was a must. My photos are not the best, but i hope you can imagine the awe that can be felt when one is stand alongside of such great power.

The Canadian (Horseshoe) Falls

The American Falls

The first snow for the year has come and gone. There is more forecast for tonight. For those Canadians who read my blog, the forecast for the weekend in Adelaide, where i come from, is 35 with a possibility of 40 degrees next week.

I still don't want to go back. I want to see a white Christmas.

XO Adrian

Week off pt II

2007-11-07T10:11:00.000+08:00

I have been staying in Timmins with friends and the forecast yesterday was for snow. This morning i awoke with to a sight that was heavenly, 7 cm of snow.

The view from the dining room window.

My car in the carpark of the 'Shania Twain Centre' where i bought some postcards.

The view from my car window.

Farmers are the same around the world. They have to have their window down and their arm sticking out. Today i saw a farmer doing just that, except it was 2 degrees and snowing!!

My week away has been great. The north of Ontario is so different from where i am staying. It is rocks, trees, lakes and wildlife. There are very few farms, very little suitable area to have a farm. The highlight as always is the people. I have met many wonderful people who are interested in what i am doing, even those outside the church. And still i have people telling me they love the Australian accent.

Talking of wildlife, at dinner Monday night my hosts told me that their BBQ was destroyed when a black bear who tore it apart looking the meat he could smell. That is what i call living close to nature. The closest we get to a destructive encounter in Australia is a possum living in the ceiling. Maybe it is just as well that we don't bears at home.

Blessings,

XO adrian

My week off pt. I

2007-11-03T22:12:00.000+08:00

I am on my first break from vicaring and i have spent the last few days in Sudbury, 410 km north of where i live. Among the new stuff i have seen are a beaver, whoa. From watching documentaries on tv i thought a beaver was a bit bigger than a cat. Not. They are closer to a the size of a dog that has spent time in the gym and been on a steady course of steroids. For those Aussies who have seen a common wombat, that is about the size of a beaver. The one i saw was in captivity because he was found suffering from frostbite. Driving into Sudbury i could see beaver dams in the creeks on the side of the road, that is real cool. (Creek is pronounced crik by some Canadian's).

My other new animal, although he was stuffed, is a Moose. That is one big deer with a nose that is best described as a honker.

My third discovery is the Old Rock Roastery coffee shop. Canadian's love their coffee, but it is all percolated. It tastes real weak. Then if you ask for a cappuccino in a coffee shop it is a premix that really is cappuccino in name only. The Old Rock makes real cappuccino with an espresso machine. I had three yesterday. This will be my place when i am in Sudbury. I'm here now using their free wireless internet and enjoying a cappuccino, or two.

Happy working or holidaying, which ever you are doing at the moment.

All the best for those who are finishing assignments, or preparing for exams.

XO adrian

Bread

2007-11-01T02:53:00.000+08:00

Last night i heard that Bethlehem in Hebrew means house of bread; beth is house and lehem (lechem) is bread. Jesus, the bread of life who feeds us his body and blood in Holy Communion , was born in the house of bread. How cool.

Jesus said "I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread they will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which is given for the life of the world" (John 6:51).

God Bless

XO Adrian

Devotion for the week

2007-10-31T00:59:00.000+08:00

On Monday's i write a devotion for the week which i use when visiting people. So i thought i will put it on my blog each week for you to read.

Who is seeking whom?
Luke 19:1-10

Zacchaeus was a despised man in his community. As the chief tax collector he was the head of the one organisation everybody loved to hate. Tax collectors had a poor reputation because they would add a little to the each tax bill to keep for themselves, and when people could not pay their bills the tax collectors would lend them the money at an excessive rate of interest. In Jericho Zacchaeus was small in height and status.

Zacchaeus was seeking to see Jesus whom he had heard so much about. In fact a crowd had gathered to see Jesus and possibly witness him perform a miracle like healing lepers (Lk 17:11-19). However Zacchaeus soon discovered that Jesus was seeking him to perform a miracle in his life. While listening to Jesus speak in his home Zacchaeus’ heart was pierced by Jesus’ words and faith was created where greed and self righteousness had reigned. Zacchaeus repented of the way he had abused his position as a tax collector and pledged to repay everyone whom he had overcharged.

Zacchaeus learned more than a moral lesson. He learned that salvation is found only in the Son of God, not in the wealth we humans can amass. As Abraham received the righteousness of God by faith, so too Zacchaeus believed that Jesus is the only way to earthly joy and eternal life. Jesus seeks us also that we may hear the good news that he alone saves us, and that we turn from our frantic attempts to bring joy to our life through accumulating goods and wealth. Jesus’ words perform the miracle of creating faith in your heart that you believe the promise he makes it true; those who believe and are baptised will be saved (Mark 16:16). You have eternal life starting here and now. May you experience the joy of salvation as Zacchaeus did, and your life be changed to reflect that joy.

God bless

ak XO

Chips

2007-10-30T20:41:00.000+08:00

In the last week i have tried two new flavours of chips. Both are Lays products and my favourite Lays variety at home is Light and Tangy, but they are not available here. The first was Dill Pickle, which i wont be buying again. Too much of a dill pickle flavour and a single dimensional flavour profile as well. The second was much more enjoyable; Ketchup. Yes they do taste like sauce. Now i don't sit down for an afternoon snack with a spoon in one hand and the sauce bottle in the other. That would be disgusting, but in a chip it works.

Snack away

Adrian XO