Britains got talent

This was my favourite act from this year - they didn't win but they were fab


George was the winner


obviously it was a dancing year this year!

If you didn't see the moment that George won - here it is!

not much to say about exams and the like

I have my family back. They returned home last night. It is great to have them back, I hadn't realized how much I'd missed them. Having said that I couldn't get to sleep for ages after they'd got back and ended up staying up watching a documentary about The Who and eating crisps until very late. This morning has been a bit tough as a result. Eva didn't wake up until 10am (so I was spared the early morning call of "Muuuuum, can I watch TV? I'm hungry!") Mark is at Snappy Snapps (his last Saturday). So, Eva and I have been lounging about - some clergy shirts arrived this morning (I think I look like a bit pudding but Eva says "they're beautiful" The puffy sleeves are stupid and my need resewing).

I have to do a bit of exam revision today (just a little each day is going in like small pippet of knowledge into a big bucket of irrelevant ideas - my head is awash with irrelevance, knowledge is struggling to survive). I feel I have little hope of being sane by Tuesday. Exam stress is taking on comedic characteristics - slurred speech, comedy wind, the eating of weird combinations of food, forgetfulness and sleeping with the light on holding chamomile tea. I will be so happy at 1pm Tuesday. This stupid, mean, torturous exam will be over.

Anyway, I am off to the shops to buy a duvet and take the car to the car wash.

Luis Hardt

A while ago I mentioned a woman called Ann who got in touch with me about Luis Hardt (one of the acts I am researching as part of my PhD) and she sent me a fantastic picture of him sitting ponderously on a chair. I have had another picture (this one) sent to me by a man called Ed. I missed out on bidding for the picture on ebay (which is a shame) but it is nice to have got this copy of him in a romantic mythical stance. Thanks Ed.

revision

I have a lot of revision to do so have promised myself not to spend too much time on the internet (who know what 'too much' actually means - it is a subjective thing and therefore open to interpretation) I will do my best to achieve this goal. So, if you (dear reader) feel abandoned I am sorry but this is the last hurdle to cross in my theology degree, and despite the obvious injustice if a 20 year old dyslexic woman having to sit an exam, I am determined to give it my best shot.

I am all alone now (Joe and Eva got to Belfast safely) so apart from a few college meetings and a garden party I have a few days of complete quiet and revision concentration.

Anyway, times up. I must go and read more about the three fold ministry...

odd day

Today has been quite strange, not least because I started off by being alone and going to St Peter's for the last time on my own. It was a lovely service and I got quite emotional saying goodbye - they gave me a the lovely ordination stole which I had asked Ann to make for me and some very useful books. I had got quite used to St Peter' and have appreciated the support of the vicar - Jenny Low. She really has been great for me and I will miss her.

After I got back I had a spot of lunch and then had to go off to get Eva from Badminton - I took Elise and Wayne with me because when I dropped Eba off we got stuck in the mud and I needed moral support. Eva had had a lovely time, she was completely pooped and all she wanted to do was eat and got to sleep. However, the reality of an early night was slightly different - it has take her ages to calm down and get off. So here I am thinking another day has past and I haven't got much revision done. I am starting to feel I am going to have to go into this exam a little more stressed than I had hoped. Anyway, I had better get back onto looking at the sacraments.

By the way - I was well peeved at the Eurovision result yesterday. I deciced having seen al the acts that I liked Israel and Denmark best (with Sweden next - but actually she was too strange for me to fully plump for in the end) I had a smidgen of respect for Russia but I have no idea why Uk came so low down - surely Spain (who got booed) didn't deserve to do better than us? Anyway, I have to say I don't know what to think about it all...will we ever be liked in Europe again? Are we such social pariahs that we can not even make it off the bottom 3? Very disappointed indeed! Hey ho.

infant baptism and eurovision

...An unlikely combination but that is what my day will be focusing on (what's left of it). I have a strict revision regime to stick to and if I haven't don't know enough about infant baptism by 8pm then I am in for a sad eurovision night. So, I am not going to hang about here...I am just going to play you what Phil Jackson and I think will the winning song (well hedging our bets it should come in the top 3).

Eurovision 2008 Sweden Charlotte Perrelli - HERO (performance in the semifinal)



please pay no attention to the Latvian Pirates

not long till Eurovision

This year is going to be a bit of a rough eurovision for me - I will be all alone! Mark is off to Liverpool, Eva is at Brownie camp and Philly J is in Belgrade watching it live! I have to be up early to lead the Sunday service at St Peter's so I can't be 'having it large' so I think it will be a small glass of white wine and some peanuts.



Phil Jackson at the Eurovision semi-final dress rehearsal last night (taken from his world famous blog)


If you want to know first hand, from the horses mouth, all the eurovision gossip as it happens then crawl over to Phil 'I cheated death' Jackson's 2008 Eurovision blogsite. It really is genius.

leaving - getting ready to go - pretending to be a vicar

These are the first of many leaving photos. The first one is of me and George Kovoor (the Trinity College principal). The other one is of some of us who are leaving wearing our new clergy-wear. Now, I know that technically we shouldn't be wearing our collars and that it is illegal to impersonate a vicar but this is just a dress rehearsal so please don't take this as a final vision of how we will actually look when we are church of England curates. I haven't decided on hair colour (please state your preference - though red is out of the question because that wouldn't go down well in Everton) and this isn't the stole (the red scarf like thingy) I will be wearing on the day - that will be white (but it is still being hand-made by a member of St Peter's Lawrence Weston church).

I am still feeling a bit sick from the fish quiche incident, I've been to college today to panic about the exam (revision is not going well) and have to sort out Eva's stuff for Brownie Camp which starts tonight. So, best get on.

fish quiche

I ate fish quiche accidentally last night and have been quite ill as a result. I am lying in bed trying not to move to quickly and eating a banana slowly. Unmarked food is always a danger at buffets but this one was a complete shock. I harmless looking asparagus quiche had something fishy in it and I took a bite. Admittedly it wasn't in my mouth for too long but nonetheless the harm was done and now I am suffering. If you remember all the way back to October 2006 I was poisoned by fish back then as well and blew up like a balloon. This time isn't as bad but I am taking no chances so have taken the day off and will read about the Anglican way of being church in preparation for my exam. Not the best day of my life but being here means I have taken delivery of a set of cutlery, a hat box and some knives ordered from ebay. Also a delivery from Lakeland. So, its not all bad!

eva

The picture of cousin Ian jumping out of the plane reminded Mark of this picture of Eva skipping. She is so happy and determined in this picture - taken at Julian and Andrew's do! (click on it and it will get bigger). She really has enjoyed her time in Bristol but she is looking forward to seeing all her old friends - particularly Maddie and Gracie back in Liverpool. I have spoken to her new school teacher today and she is starting at the school in Anfield as soon as we move in June. I think she is excited about it and they seem very pleased to have her. I do hope it works out well for her as she has really enjoyed her time at Our Lady of the Rosary here in Bristol. I know she'll miss her friends and the school regime here but I think she will settle ok at her new school. If you get a moment and could pray for her and the transition that would be great. Thanks.

cousin Ian

I got an email from my cousin today. He did a parachute jump on Sunday and he sent this picture to prove it. He also reminded me that my Dad used to be in the parachute regiment after the war so regularly jumped out of 'planes. Apparently he once said to my cousin "nothing can beat the feeling of free falling and then when you open your chute, it's like the hand of God coming down and pulling you up and rescuing you."

Now, my Dad died five years ago and I hardly ever see my cousin but this snippet of an insight into their relationship was quite moving to read. I have never jumped out of a plane but I know what it feels like to be rescued by the hand of God - if it's like that it must be amazing.

Baptists

You may well know that Trinity college is 'in a relationship' with the Baptist College (they call it a Federation - which is another way of saying they love each other very much but there is no kissing). Well, the Baptists are great! I say this because I have just read a book about the way they do church, what they think is important and general stuff about the way they developed their theology of church and I found myself being very sympathetic to their decisions. Don't worry I am not turning Baptist but I can see why my family were congregationalists...whilst not the same as Baptists their self-governance and commitment to mission is particularly compelling. I am an Anglican through and through (cut me in half and "CofE" is written round my inside) but I think I am a Baptist sympathizer.

On another subject altogether. It is 3 weeks till we move! A fact that slightly disturbed me today and I got stress tummy. I wonder if my study in the vicarage will look like this:




another fab cartoon (click on it and it gets bigger) by Dave Walker who now is writing the Church Times Blog. Genius at work.

family

It has been a fantastic family day here at Loudon Bristol HQ. Despite it being a bit sad because we knew it was the lat time we'd all be together in Bristol it was a fab day. Mum had bought a great big piece of beef which was cooked to perfection and served with yorkshire puddings, fresh green beans, asparagus, new potatoes and carrots. For pudding we had a chocolate cloud cake. Lovely lovely.

I am very tired now and really should be asleep but i have a few more chores before bed. So, best get on.

my mum

I have spent the day with my mum. I always knew it was going to be a bit tricky because today is the last day I will spend with her doing bits and bobs in Bristol. We have got used to just hanging out and chatting. So, this is the last weekend that we are going to be together and it does feel quite strange. To be honest I feel quite sad. I know she will come and visit us in Liverpool but it won't be the same as her being to pop over whenever she fancies it.

We had a good day pottering about. Mum got us a dishwasher from Lewis's...I had no desire to get one bit mum insists that we will need one in the vicarage and who am I to argue. Mark and Elise went off to Shroud to Neil's 40th. Mum, Eva and I watched TV and chilled out. It sounds mundane but I am feeling really quite sad. We have a big family lunch planned for tomorrow and I really do think I will need tissues.

last academic board

Every day I seem to face a new 'last thing'. Today it was academic board. In my past life I was also on academic board as a senior academic but it was quite a different experience - it was hostile and unforgiving, you had to watch your back, be on top form and watch out for aggressive tactics from other departments (and sometimes those in your own). Being on academic board at Trinity is so far removed from my previous experiences that it has almost (but not quite) restored my faith in such assemblies. It is possible to approach the rough and tumble of academic disciple without it being at the cost of others. I can't actually believe that I will miss it...what a geek!

Anyway, we have a busy family weekend ahead - my mum's here and we have everyone coming over on Sunday for lunch. Another 'last thing' = the last time we will all be together as a family in Bristol. I might need tissues.

top hat

here is a picture of me in my new top hat.

I have had a great day today. Not least because I have a great debate with Jonathan Swales about all kinds of things but which started with the equality of people and gender difference. I also participated in a great seminar about infant baptism. Added to this edifying conversation we had 'all day breakfast' for lunch, which really was a treat.

This evening we have the pleasure of welcoming Lee and Mary Barnes and Tom Donaghy to Loudon Bristol HQ for a spot of dinner. Mark has a fantastic menu planned. Before they arrive I have to do some reading and try to find places for all the stupid things I have been buying on ebay and additional furniture for the new house which doesn't have a proper place in this house.

And, all is well because I have a new top hat!!!

croquet

Today was the first time have played croquet this summer and it was very enjoyable. Having said that, this year our pastoral group has a very good croquet player so I wasn't able to slaughter them in the same way as I did last year. Actually I was so out of practice I didn't do as well as I had hoped. Hey ho. It was very nice to be out in the sun and be doing something rather than chatting (we are very good at chatting and in our pastoral group - not so good at doing). I have found the pastoral group very supportive and rewarding this year. We may not have been as dynamic as last year but we have been able to listen to each other, attend to our group and personal needs and just hang out together. Talking about God in this group has been great and we have such different perspectives on life that this has fed into our time together and added a richness to discussion. So, as I come to the last 3 weeks of term and my time at college as I think of the pastoral groups I have been in I feel very fortunate and blessed.

babies and glastonbury

Mark has sent me on some excellent pictures of the new Belfast babies - Sam and Angie. What fantastic babies they are and everyone looks so proud and made up with the beautiful bundles of joy. many blessings to both families. I am unfortunately not going to be able to get over to see them when Mark, Joe and Eva go to Belfast for half-term. I have to stay here to revise for this stupid exam. Hey ho.

Today I have been to Glastonbury on a DOCTRINE OF GOD, CHRISTIAN HOPE AND LIBERATION module day out to explore Christian expressions of faith in the town and alternative spiritualities. It was a jolly good day: I sampled some good cake, had a walk round the Abbey, got some lavender oil from a shop under the Goddess Temple, listened to the curate of St John's church talk about her experience of being a priest in the town, listened to the Goddess Temple Melissa speak about her experiences and did a spot of shopping. All in a days work for an ordinand in the Church of England!

I am trying to get an early night and sort my reading out for tomorrow. So, best get off and do that.

finance

Today we had a visit from the clergy finance people to talk about stipends, housing and pensions. I am just starting and already thinking about my retirement (in 25years time!). I have to say it is a very scary thing for me to think about money but I guess I need to have a bit of think about it. We will be in dire straits if we don't plan ahead but Mark has decided that he is going to make lots of money and all will be well. I am hoping this is true but I might just seek some professional help just in case.

It is a very hot day and I am not getting very far with my revision. I have spent the last 20mins or so trying to bid on a top hat on ebay. I want one for 'events' - I really wish I had had one for Julian and Andrew's do (see pic above and for a load more pictures see Mark's Picasa site). Anyway, after many days trying I now have a 1930's silk top hat (for £20). Oh joy.

I am off to a Brownie meeting with Eva in a short while and Becky's over for tea so best get on.

prison

I am just back from Bristol prison and all that sleeping yesterday seems such a long way away. I was up early and now I am in need of a further rest and food (I think there's a bit of last night's takeaway to eat). Mark and Eva are doing a it of work on the garden and I am trying to bid on a top hat on ebay. Life's hard isn't it!

I am hoping that we will get out to see Steve and Moira's exhibition on the Bristol Arts trail later. But we also have Elise and her granny coming over for dinner. So, it's all go here. Anyway, it is a lovely day and I need some lunch so I'm off to sit in the garden.

bed

I am in bed. I am feeling a bit groggy and think here is the best place to be for a while. Mark has an unexpected day off so we are taking it easy because there are going to be a few very busy weeks ahead. Eva has a friend over (they had a sleep over last night and are still playing quite happily). I am rather hoping to get sausage sandwich in bed quite soon (the wonderful Mark is busy creating breakfast) and I might even have a doze again. I am sorry if you are reading this from a busy office, whilst doing an essay, if you are dealing with children or just feeling like you are sleep deprived or don't get enough time to yourself. Believe me I know how you feel...and today's lie in in bed is very unusual and long overdue. I know that is only a slight consolation. I can only hope you get a chance like this too sometime soon.

Not a lot on today but tomorrow I am off to Horfield prison to hear Geoff preach at 2 morning services in the prison chapel. The only thing is I have to be out the house by 7.45am. hey ho. At least I am back home by 11am.

eurovision countdown

Eurovision is next week and Philly J has started the countdown (he actually started a few days ago but I have been a bit lax and not let you know). If you have even a passing interest in Eurovision then Phil is your man. What he doesn't know isn't worth knowing. He will keep you posted about the runners and leaders. What's more he will be in attendance this year and will be blogging from Belgrade, with live streaming from the event.

I am at college - my aim for the day is to plan my revision for this exam. I have a pile of books, a load of past papers and a good idea of my interests. I also could do with a bit of a rest. My head is a bit full. I need a cup of tea.

We are off to Bruce and Sara's for dinner tonight. I am very much looking forward to the foodolution.

A just peace on Israel's 60th anniversary

The number of people who have signed the The Declaration has risen and the signatories are an impressive group of people. If you are a church leader do please have a look and see if you might be able to sign it.

in college

I am here. It seems like an age since I was at my desk. Having had a proper blow out and being reunited with my Liverpool friends means that I am starting to reintegrate into my Liverpool community. I also was reminded about how supportive you have been of mine and Mark's change of circumstances. It never ceases to amaze me how great you, my friends, have been about me becoming a vicar. Even though it may not be your chosen religion or your lifestyle choice I am encouraged by your support and love for us. The many conversations I had over the weekend reinforced that sense of being surrounded by people who see this as an important thing to do. For that I am immensely grateful.

So, here I am reading about Anglicanism and dolly daydreaming about being in a field in Shropshire surrounded by lovely people, a glass of something cool and bubbly in my hand (and a megaphone in the other) having a laugh. I must focus. I have an exam to prepare for! By the way - Mark's photos are great and I will send a link to them asap.

not fallen off the edge of the world

I am just checking in really. I haven't got much energy left so I am not going to post too much now, this is just a quick note to let you know that we got back from Shropshire ok. We had a great time. It was a real treat to spend time with everyone and have a great party time. Julian and Andrew were fantastic. They looked great, had arranged a fab day and were the hosts with the most. I really did let my hair down and just relaxed. Feels like the wind has been blown out of my sails. I have to go to sleep now because I am so tired but I will put some photos up soon and let you know some more details later.

Dr Eisenbarth Wanderbuhn

I may have told you that 10years ago - just before we got married - Mark and I ran away to the circus for the summer, the Swiss Circus! Well, Just horse drawn carts, a fantastic show and our own caravan (of love). I finally got my cinefilm transfered to DVD and have loaded it up onto youtube. I am afraid the quality isn't great but it does give some of the flavour of the adventure. Look out for my favourite horse Rex - I loved him.



In other news: Mark's sister Ema have had a baby, a boy baby! So congratulations to Stephen and Ema. And Dylan and Anna have had a baby girl - so well done you lot too. There are babies everywhere!

We are off to Jilian and Andrew's wedding in a short while. So, there may be blogging silence for a few days.

dodgy tummy on Ascension Day

Miniature from Rabbula Gospels
(Mesopotamia, 6th century)





I have a bit of a weird tummy bug thing that seems to also make my head ache. I am trying to keep eating (one of my main objectives in life is to maintain a steady flow of food) but really I have lost heart for it. Anyway, I have been keeping on doing the stuff I need to do but tonight I feel rubbish. Which is a shame because this weekend is Julian and Andrews wedding and I have been looking forward to it for ages and ages and ages. Mark and Eva are camping in a field in Shropshire Elise and I are staying in a B&B. Oh joy. Perhaps if I eat only a boiled egg for tea I will feel ok tomorrow? I do hope so.

This week has been very busy. Tuesday night we had the fantastic Broadway's over for supper. What great company they are! If I could take them with us to Liverpool that would be great. But I think they have a life they are enjoying down here so I will have to deal with that!

Wednesday was a college day full of spirituality, meetings and chatting about curacies and stuff. I got an early night because we had Ascension Day communion at 8am - which meant leaving home at 7.40am. Too early to praise the Lord even if it is the day he went up to heaven. I did have quite a good go at being joyful though it was quite a challenge by 11am having had 2 hours if lectures and waiting for a seminar on the sacraments. The best thing that happened today was getting the fantastic clerical shirt that Amanda Judge has handmade for me. It is black and made of lovely linen. I am so pleased with it. Just need some trousers now and I will be set for ordination clothes. I also had my hair cut - there is no blue left, just my natural mouse brown hair!

Well I had better go and sort out tea for Mark and boil my egg!