Happy Christmas

Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him. Luke 2:14

This year I have know the peace of God in all things and this Christmas I pray that you to will experience the confidence of his peace. 

2017 has flown by and I now have acclimatised to the heat, running in 37-degree heat.  Mount Isa feels like home and I've been blessed with a lovely home, great friends and a new church family. 

It was wonderful to have Mum & Dad visit at Easter and then Steve, Anne, Matt, Josh and Anna visit in September.  Are you keen for an outback adventure?  I'd love you to visit!

Mount Isa Rodeo

Mount Isa Mine shaft

Goodbye house

This year I took the opportunity to sell my house.  I have loved how I created a home from this house and work I put into renovating it.  Many of you have shared in great times there, from dinner parties to New Year's Eve parties, backyard cricket or afternoon tea on the deck.  My home has been a blessing to me and to others as well with friends and family either house sharing with me or renting from home.  I know it has been a haven for some and for this I am grateful for God's goodness and provision to me and others.

 

Taking a breath with family

I enjoyed a week with mum, dad and my nieces and nephews.  We enjoyed swimming every day and riding our bikes around town.  This is the second time I've done this with the kids and as they get older it may be the last.  Matt has now graduated high school and hasn't found a job for his gap year yet so was able to join us.  We loved catching waves together!

School

My first year as Principal at Happy Valley State School has been rewarding, although challenging.  I'm looking forward to 2018 and what we have planned for next year.  We are venturing into a focus on improving maths teaching which is unique for our region. I'm excited about the plans my team have devised and the innovation we are embarking upon. I am thankful for the guidance and wisdom of others to help me through.

Adventures

This year I have put my 4WD to good use and have enjoyed camping and going off the beaten track a little.  It has been great to meet a good of likeminded friends who have made the year fun and enjoyable.  We've had fun exploring old deserted mining towns.

I also did the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail with my friend, Anna.  I only stacked it once and got grazes so I was able to ride on.  It is a great ride.  You can do it in parts or take a few days to ride the whole trail.

Stephen, Anne, Matt, Josh and my friend Anna visited in September holidays and we took a trip into the Northern Territory.  We lived simply and enjoyed camping along the way.  The Karlu Karlu (Devil's Marbles) were worth the drive.  It was great to share an adventure together.