Questions... courtesy of Jess

1. Easy one first - you recently went overseas - where did you go, and what was the best part about the places you went to?

That's a tougher question that you realise, but I'll live :) Well I spent for weeks, wandering around the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland. I really loved seeing parts of the world that were new to me. I'd been in London before, when I was about 7. But this was the first time that these places would leave more than an small impression.

Various things stood out. I went to the Arsenal v Manchester United (Charity Sheild Final). I spent a morning at Lord's. At the moment the one that really stands out was the Giant's Causeway. I was overwhelmed while I was there. It's simply unique.

Belfast really intrigued me. I felt while I was there it was two cities. There was the city which you and I are familar with, as we live in one - a normal city, going about its normal business - people going to work, university or school. But below that, it's not a normal city ... it's a city that's torn in two. It's a city filled with violence, and deep hatred. On the day I arrived I was told to not go into a certain pub. The night before I left I drank in an Loyalist Pub. So they city is divided.. but most of the people I met, were just trying to get on with their lives.

Edinburgh is my favourite city though. It's just such a romantic city. As for the time I spent in the highlands, both words, and photo's fail to do justice to it.


2. If you were stranded on a desert island (and it's a pretty sophisticated one!) what five things would you not be able to do without?

Hmm. I would take both paper, and a pen. (one item or two) ;) I'd need to take music. My Bible would be important too.

As for the last items. I'm not really sure.

3. What is your favourite music/artist? and why?

Toughie. The two artists that I really love at the moment are U2, and Nichole Nordemann.

Nichole is a brilliant christian singer, her latest CD has been living in my cd player pretty much since I bought it. It's mainly the words - she writes from the heart, with a refreshing honesty, and they challenge me.

U2 are a band that I have listened to for ages. Bono, to me, is one of the greatest lyricists. He writes beautiful and challenging songs, that really speak to the world in which we live. And whether he is a Christian or not, some of his songs have impacted the way I think about God.

4. How does a Kiwi guy survive in Australia?!

I guess pretty much the same way an Australian does... although somewhat more mocked.... (thank goodness the Bledisloe Cup is back home)

5. Has God been telling you anything profound lately? (I know, I know, I had to ask ONE spiritual one, didn't I?!)

Well. I've been really challenged to think about what I should do with my life. God has measured my days, and I need to redeem that time, in service to Him.