Furlough

Alexandra from "The Linger and Die". So called presumably because if you lingered on this spot too long you could be drowned by a flood.

Today was my first day at work after a weeks holiday. It's been kind of a watershed week. We decided to go to Alexandra for most of it and catch up with friends and surroundings that we left behind 2 or more years ago to enter The Salvation Army Training College. We had been back only once for a quick trip so it was time to relax and spend time.

The picture above doesn't do Alexandra justice and being winter it didn't look a bit like that blue sky and brown grass. It was mostly grey skies and below zero temperatures with a bit of rain thrown in and snow on the surrounding hills.
Nevertheless it was great and we enjoyed our stay with friends.
I preached at my old Corps on the Sunday about Mephibosheth grandson of the King who lived a crippled life in poverty and through David found a love that seeks, elevates and is secure. The Corps people there are my personal fan club so I couldn't fail but I do hope they heard the message as it's a great story.

We had a trip through to Wanaka for a haircut. Cause that's what you do when your on holiday you travel an hour there and an hour back with the threat of snow over you just for a haircut.

I feel much better for the break even if it was packed to the hilt with friends and family and not a minute to spare. I've done a lot of thinking and a lot of off loading and I think I am understanding a lot more the way I've got to go in terms of work and calling and who I am and who God is - yes things are back in perspective like they never have been before.
Today was my first day back at work and for the 3rd time this winter I had to wait for an hour or so before I could get out of the driveway because of ice or snow. This time it wasn't that the tyres wouldn't grip - I actually had no control for a full 2 seconds because of ice. Just might have to leave the car at the top of the hill and walk up to it every morning to avoid the excitement.