Eden Anna

Is this my blog!??!?!

2006-11-02T22:57:00.000Z

Eden Anna
Oh my word - I had forgotten that this even existed!!! I only managed to get online at home last week - wretched talk talk took forever to connect me. But I am online now - the deal is good so I can't grumble!!

Been on the island for a few months now. My apartment is great. My job is great. The island is a truly beautiful place to live and it is great to be near the water. There is something quite exciting about having to get a boat to get home - but a little frustrating as well.

My reasons for being here have changed in the last few weeks and I am looking forward to seeing what it is that is in store. Nothing is without reason!!!

How is the blogspot world!!?

Moving!!

2006-07-30T12:18:00.000Z

I did not realise that I had aquired quite so much stuff!! My word is all I'll say!! Have only one room left to sort now though so all is going fairly well. Moving day wasn't too stressful, loads of kids came to help pack up the van, they were truly terrific!!! Saying goodbye was incredibly difficult but it is more a change rather than a leaving them forever!

I am already loving the Island (and yes, you can come and visit!). matt and alison have already been over. It all feels a bit surreal at the moment but I am sure that that will change!

Anyway - more news and some piccies later!!

Sponsoring a good cause!

2006-06-28T18:17:00.000Z

Eden Anna
Hi - two very good friends of mine, Chris and Laura Neelson, are about to undertake a 268 mile walk along the pennine way in order to raise money for their Eden Project. Together they run Eden Fitton Hill (an area in Oldham). Their project is not as big or established as Harpurhey and they do struggle to raise funds. These guys are taking two weeks out to do this walk - they also have a 1 1/2 year old son who will be doing the walk with Grandma and lots of B&Bs!!! If you would like to sponsor them to help another Eden project then please take a look at the following site and see for yourself!!!

Thanks!

www.justgiving.com/268milewalk

Eden Anna

2006-06-18T18:06:00.000Z

Eden Anna

My word - I can't believe it has been so long since I looked at this!!! I'm afraid I didn't take my camera to Florida - I know, shocking - so I have no pictures to share!! No doubt my news is now out there that I am moving to the Isle of Wight at the end of July. If you hadn't received the email - then here it is!!!

After much thought, prayer and deliberation I came to the conclusion that I really need to focus my energies on teaching. I have found the split focus of teaching and Eden difficult to manage. So I have taken the brave decision to leave Eden and focus on my teaching for a while. It was quite remarkable how the job that I am moving to came about:

MONDAY:
See job advertised and really like look of it - tis on Isle of Wight - slightly random (do have a friend there). Ring them and a couple of friends to talk the idea through.

TUESDAY
Call school and request application - closing date is Friday - it better be quick!

WEDNESDAY
Get home from work to find no application - print one off from on line - write application without person spec. and hope for the best - only takes hour to complete - manage to get application posted off first class from main post office in Manchester.

THURSDAY
Call the school that morning to say that my application is on its way, they ask me a few key questions and sound very keen! Current headteacher interrupts my afternoon lesson looking somewhat bewildered. She has just received a phone call asking for references and requesting that I attend an interview tomorrow! Both Head and I in a state of shock - I can not for the life of me work out how I am supposed to get to the Isle of Wight by the next day! Find myself on train travelling down that evening - interview clothes and toothbrush in hand (well, small bag!!!)

FRIDAY
Picked up from hotel by member of school staff. Meet the Head and Deputy - tour the school. The whole school then leaves on a sponsored walk - I am in the staff room waiting for my interivew that afternoon. People drop in to chat to me - don't know who they are but smile sweetly and talk anyway. Secretary takes me to Ryde so I can get some lunch. Receive phonecall from secretary to say that the other two applicants have pulled out - one got a job that morning, the other has changed their mind! It dawns on me that the likelihood of my getting the job has just significantly increased!!! Walk around in dazed state praying like mad!!! Get back to the school where I have to wait still!! Keep getting messages saying that they will be with me soon! The Head and Deputy return from the walk - covered in mud - we laugh together!!! Sit in Head's office where she says she isn't going to interview me - says she can't! They had had one of those days - it was chaotic in the best possible sense of the word! She goes on to say that my application was outstanding, my references were outstanding and that everyone who has met me today thinks that I am great and will fit in well. Am then offered a term's temporary contract, that will be made permanent if it all works out well. This is ideal for me as it is such a big move. I accept - relieved that I didn't have to be interviewed!!!

SUNDAY
Phone call from friend on Isle of Wight - they have found me a house to rent which is well within my budget - wouldn't have to be tied in to a six month agreement as it is someone from their church. All sorted!!!!

It is crazy how it has come about and I would really appreciate your prayers. Life is going to be incredibly different to the life I currently have. My focus, the way things are done, the people that I am around, everything!! Eden is an intense experience so it is going to be strange to not be in that. There are a lot of goodbyes that need to be said and a lot of people still to be told - I really find it difficult to tell people around here! There are new friendships to be made, a new job to focus on (this will be the first time since I was ill last year that I have looked at teaching in the more conventional manner - I am so excited but a little aprehensive too), two houses to sort - things to move, I could go on!!! I am sure you can work it all out!!

Eden Anna

2006-03-28T08:41:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Take a look at this - oh how I laughed!!!

http://www.whiteboydj.com/babygotbook.html

The last week!

2006-03-21T00:03:00.000Z

Thought I'd sit down and actually share a bit of what has been going on this last week! Really should! I have been so slack at keeping people informed lately - I do apologise!!

Had some fun with the girls that I've been working with on a Monday ever since I moved here. Two of them have developed a fascinating attitude over the last few months - I could list their misdemeanours - but won't!! During this bumpy time I've been able to maintain a good relationship with them - until last Monday!! It was a classic teenage moment - I took them to one side to talk to them as 'mature young adults' - they reacted on the defensive and before I knew it it was a full scale war!! It resulted with me having to ask them to leave. They came back a few days later to tell me that they would never come to Monday club again!! I give it about three weeks!

Circumstances with my job have been changing recently (why do jobs never remain simple!!). The person who does the other half of the role that I currently have has resigned. I've been asked to take the role on full time until the summer. I have reluctantly agreed to this! We had a meeting to discuss the timetable - it was a bit of a power struggle between the management team so it was interesting!! The timetable is interesting!!! They want me to take this on full time in September on a permanent contract. I'm not so convinced. Needless to say I am job hunting again! I have had to job hunt every year since I decided to move to Manchester - it is getting a little annoying!! Time for a job that I can stay in for a few years please!!!!

Have had a very sociable weekend with the Windus offspring decending on Manchester - went out for a lovely curry with them all on Saturday. Luke did a great impression of Jayne when she visited the same curry house and was some what surprised by the fish tank in the floor!!! Spent a lot of time with the guys from team as well. Which is always good to do! Went out for a very delicious Sunday lunch - at a pub called the Shoulder of Mutton - if you ever find yourself in Ramsbottom may I reccommend this to you!!

Church was great on Sunday. We're looking at Jesus' journey to the cross in the run up to Easter. This Sunday was all about the Garden of Gethsemene. We re-arranged the seating so that people were in small huddles. We darkened the building and just had a few coloured lights creating an atmosphere. We had an image of branches blowing in the breeze with the sunlight breaking through on the screen. We played music from 'The Passion'. From the moment people stepped into the building they knew that something was different. We opened with a song and then watched the clip from 'The Passion' when Jesus was in the garden praying and the disciples fell asleep. Yes there are some interpretations that Mel Gibson has made that aren't necessarily accurate Biblically but it was so powerful to watch. The talk was then all about 'Not my will, but yours.' aimed particularly at people facing tough decisions at the moment. For those not in such a place we discussed the importance of 'keeping us from temptation'. The need to pray before as opposed to a sorry afterwards! We then gave people real time to respond. We had a prayer tree at the front of church that people could come and sit infront of and pray. People could write prayers on paper leaves and attach them to the tree if they wanted something more symbollic. People could pray in groups or on their own. It was a really good time and you could see so many people really engaging in what was going on. Even the older teenagers were telling the younger ones to be quiet!!

There was great fellowship afterwards and lots of really valuable conversations!

So - a small snap shot into some of life up here in Harpurhey!!

Hope you're all well.

More snow!

2006-03-03T19:18:00.000Z

Liam decided that laying down in the middle of the road and making his snow angel was a really good idea!! He doesn't live on our street - interesting how many people told him to go away because this wasn't his patch! That snowball in his left hand did end up all over me!!! What a treasure!!

Snow in Harpurhey

2006-03-03T19:12:00.000Z

Just come in from a fun evening on the street. We are currently receiving our fair share of the artic weather! It was really good fun with kids, teenagers and adults a like all having a go! Even those who are normally having a go at each other managed to enter into the fun of things!!

Some of the kids have made a fantastic snowman which the older lads are determind to run away with. I suggested that they wait until the kids are asleep - take the snowman and leave some glitter behind so that the kids think something magical has happened!! I know, I shouldn't encourage them!!!

A weekend in Essex!

2006-02-21T12:34:00.000Z

Just got back from a great weekend in Essex. It was so good to see so many of you and to take some time out. Thank you so much for all the hugs, kind words, thoughtful prayers and friendship. You guys have done me a lot of good this weekend so a big thanks :-)

Catch up!

2006-01-27T19:04:00.000Z

Hey there - yet again I've been very poor at keeping this going! Ah well - I'll try again!!

Been praying for all of you in Chelmsford loads as so much has been going on. It has been great to be able to look at the different blogs and hear the reactions and thoughts. We really do serve an awesome God even if there are times when we just hate the outcomes.

I'm still working full time (whatever happened to that part time existence I was going to make the most of?!?!) The class are really tricky but we're now getting to that stage where they are being knocked into shape. It's funny to hear them compare my standards to their official teacher - whilst him and I are very similar in our style there are also some differences!! I am definitely working full time until half term and then I've requested that I have the chance to review the situation. Financially it is great to be working full time (have treated myself to a rather lovely new chocolate leather sofa - sadly not edible!!) but if a girl is gonna take a year part time she so wants to see the fruits of that!!!

I'm heading off to Nottingham tonight to see Matt and Alison. Jon and Lucy had their second baby boy this week (Samuel William Loose 8 lbs 8) and so we're going to meander on down to Bury St Edmonds to meet the little chap! It is fun when new members of the family arrive!!! What will this one be like?!?! I could make an educated guess but won't!!!! lol

I was woken up with a fright last Saturday - the council are re-roofing our houses as part of a regeneration project. There is scaffolding everywhere and general chaos! I didn't expect these workmen to be working on a Saturday morning! I was laying in bed, a beautiful Saturday morning. I'd opened the curtains slightly so I could see the blue sky (a fairly rare sighting in the north!!) when a pair of legs made their way past my window!! Seeing as my room is in the attic I was really rather taken aback! I'm presuming a body was attached! Didn't take me many minutes (not seconds - it is morning!) to jump out of bed and close them again! I then got myself distracted by Dick and Dom on TV - that show is so much like Spring Harvest Youth Work it is unbelievable!!!! I'm sure they've robbed all their ideas off the Christians!!!

We've started a new project at church in the last few weeks. We've been looking at the theme of Jesus' humility. We thought about the act of washing feet and from that an idea sprung forth!!! The phrase, 'You've been wellied' is gradually becoming part of Harpurhey speak! The idea is that you go and do a random act of kindness for someone and tell them that they have been wellied. The following Sunday in church we have a welly, known as the witness welly (beautifully decorated welly with lights and everything!!!), people can write on this piece of paper what has happened to them that week as a way of giving testimony. We also have the wants welly - if someone has a need that they really could do with being met they can request it in there, we can then take action to try and meet that need. It is interesting to see how much easier it is to fill the witness welly than the wants welly!!!

Anyways - I should go - I need to be hitting the road shortly!

God bless

Eh?!??!?!

2005-12-20T14:05:00.000Z

Eden Anna
I have no clue how I managed to post that twice!! I pressed the button once!! I'm not that blonde!!!!!!!

Love thy Neighbour!!

2005-12-20T14:02:00.001Z

I could tell many stories about my neighbour (not Matt Copsey - the other one!!) which would have you laughing, squirming and squealing all at once. She has always been very anti-Eden and does not appreciate the kids being about. There have been many a run in with her and many an awkward situation that has needed to be sorted gracefully. When I was signed off work earlier this year her approach towards me changed. I suspect I became more like those around here as I wasn't working and that I was in this position with a sense of 'injustice' also. Gradually I have been able to build up a more positive relationship with her.

These last few days she has been knocking on my door more and more. Today has been no exception. A few months ago her son committed suicide. Her life is one catalogue of disasters after another. She struggles with alcoholism (but denies this most days). She is 65 next month and has asked me to join her for her birthday celebrations. It would appear that at this moment in time I am her only friend in the world. This morning she was sobbing on my shoulder - pouring it all out. She was saying just how alone she felt, how no one loved her and she has finally admitted that she can no longer go on like this. She has given me permission to find out other ways of seeking help as I know all I can do is listen.

Spiritually things are also extremely complex. She has a history with the church so I can't point her in that direction simply. It runs deeper than that. I tell her that I pray for her as it is all that I can do and she is extremely grateful.

I know all of us have different things that we have to deal with and they can just completely overwhelm us, especially at this time of year. I would really appreciate your prayers with this one as it is so complex.

'intercessory prayer moves God'. Bounds quotes Bishop Handley C.G Moule who said

"Intercessory prayer is a powerful means of grace for a praying person. The English missionary Martyn observes that at times of inward dryness and depression, he often found delightful revival in the act of praying for others, for their conversion, or sanctification, or prosperity in the work of the Lord. His intercession with God about these gifts and blessings were, for himself, the divinely natural channel of a renewed insight into his own part and lot in Christ. Christ was his own rest and power, into the perfect freedom of yielding himself to his master for his work"

Have a great Christmas guys - we do have so much to be thankful for :0)

Love thy Neighbour!!

2005-12-20T14:02:00.000Z

The holidays are here!

2005-12-18T11:04:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Finally the holidays are here (sorry those of you who are still working!). It has been a manic month as I have had to work full time. In many ways the job hasn't turned out as expected as I haven't been able to give time to Eden. However, I have found my skills being used massively at school. I have been in the year six class for the last month. They are an extremely challenging class, their behaviour is, well, awful! Their teacher is really going through it at the moment. At the end of October his wife had twins. One of these twins was then diagnosed as having Downs Syndrome. This came as a massive shock to the family and they are not coping well with it. To add to this the baby has three holes in the heart and they are waiting anxiously for her operation. The doctors are wanting her to gain more weight before the operation can take place.

This means that he won't be back in school in January either so I will continue to be teaching full time. I must admit that I am loving it. The challenge of these kids gets me really excited (I know - sad!) and knowing that I am helping out their teacher by being there makes it even more worthwhile. I need to get my head down and get planning over this next week because with SATs in May we can't be wasting time. There are some really challenging behaviours but nothing like what we see on Eden so it is manageable.

My housemate got engaged this week and I am so excited for her. No doubt the next few months will be dominated by wedding plans!! Only just got the last housemate sorted out!!! I don't know! It does mean that yet again housing is an issue (when isn't it round here!) I need to get proactive in the next few months to find a solution. I am keen to buy as I feel that I should stop throwing money away on rent and actually make a wiser investment with my money. The bank thoughtfully called me this week and told me that I was entitled to 'special rates' with them - was a random call but useful nonetheless!! Do I believe them though?!?! In many ways it means that I need full time work or find another housemate. Both are possible. Just got to work out which one is the best one. Fortunately I am guaranteed that my housemate will pay rent until next September, regardless of when she gets married, so it is useful that she has found herself a wealthy bloke!!!

I'm coming back to Essex for Christmas on Christmas Eve so no doubt will see people around!

God bless.

Oh No!

2005-12-10T16:58:00.000Z

Ok - seriously embarrassing moment at work this week!! I am working full time at the moment as the year six teacher has had to take extended leave. They are a tricky class to put it mildly but we are getting there and having a lot of fun along the way. The week we've been making model victorian houses. They were really engrossed in the work much to my joy! I was wandering around the classroom, helping out here and there, ensuring that they were staying on task, you know, the normal thing! I had a minor incident to deal with as one girl was being a little 'tricky', having successfully put her in her place I turned to walk away. Unfortunately I misjudged my footing as I went to walk away, I tripped over a child and then promptly fell backwards, into one of the boxes that was being used for a house! The children didn't laugh, much to my surprise - they were more concerned that I was ok - bless them!! But they loved telling the kids who were absent the next day!!

Only the second falling accident in school, ever!!!

That Blind Date!!

2005-11-10T18:55:00.000Z

Ok - I have half an hour spare - here we go!!

I am told the restaurant - find a very vague map on the internet (finding my way around Manchester is not my forte!!!) - I am told the time and I see a picture of the person that I am expecting to meet! I carefully select the outfit - smart but casual. Treated myself to a tasty pair of new boots - outfit complete! Spend a couple of hours getting ready - it is important!! I drive down into town and struggle to find a car parking space. I end up parking on the roof of the Arndale Carpark. Being Manchester, it is tipping it down with rain. The hair is beautifully straight however, being the prepared individual that I am I have a brolly in the car!!!

I dive out of the car and run to what I thought was the lift. No lift. New boots and no lift. Not good. I try to rush down the stairs, all 12 floors worth, whilst not wanting to look wind swept, trying to retain some dignity!! I rush through the Arndale and towards the street where I know the restaurant is near.

I stop to get some cash - always important to be prepared!!

As I get near the street I think I want two guys stop me. "Hi - we're looking for people to be hair models, can we tempt you!" I look at them in disbelief. In that girly, I'm not stressed voice I inform them that normally I would be so flattered and went on to explain my dilemma! I asked them if they knew where this place was, they didn't have a clue. They started stopping people on the street and asking them. The comment was the same - I know it is here somewhere! After twenty minutes of running (in heels!!) up and down this street, asking anyone who looked like they might know if they knew where this restaurant was I thought I would have to stand him up. I felt terrible!! It wasn't like I could call him or anything to let him know! And if one more person said, 'I know it is round here!" they may have met a sudden and unexpected death!!!!!

Eventually I stumble across the restaurant and spot this person who kinda looks like the picture - but I'm not sure! Sheepishly I say his name, fortunately he turned, looked, smiled and said ,'Anna'! I must confess, by this moment in time I was feeling a little disappointed! Firstly, he waited, twenty five minutes - is he desperate I'm wondering!!??!?!?! Secondly, he just ooozed 'out of touchness'. Cream Chinos, trainers, dodgy blue shirt, over sized ruck sack. I know it isn't all about looks but....

The food was good - but stupid Nouvelle Cusine - I WAS SO HUNGRY!!! Conversation was easy when talking about God. The guy didn't own a TV - what do you talk about with people if they don't own TVs?!?!?! How can one have an informed conversation about Lost, Extreme Makeover, Neighbours?!??!!? At one point he remarked that TV is rubbish - I knew then that things would be totally doomed!!! One thing I haven't sacrificed since going part time is my Sky TV!!!

If his TV remark wasn't enough to kill things the next thing he did was! I really shouldn't smile as much as I tend to do!! I think he thought I was game for a laugh! However, the moment he thought it funny to put an ice-cube down my top - the front of my top - was definitely the icing on the cake!!!! As he moved to make his 'ice-cube' move I was panicking - I thought he was going to try and kiss me and I was certainly NOT going to let him do that!!! I was so busy worrying about that I didn't notice the ice cube move until too late!!!!

In my mind that was it - game over!

In his - so not the same!! We leave the restaurant - I was planning in walking away in one direction, him the other. But no, could I shake him off, could I heck!!! I tried so many tactics to give the 'leave me alone' hint!! He just did not get them! Even, I'm parked over here, you said you need to catch the train, the station is all the way over there, with over played pointing involved too - he still didn't get the hint!!!

When we reached the car park I said there was no point in him walking me up to my car. By now, I was ready to run away, quickly!! He went to hug me goodbye, some how I managed to avoid it, not sure how!! He then said he thought we should do this again sometime, I laughed, hard! I didn't mean to, I meant to be polite, but my manners were really struggling by this point! I came back with a 'maybe' and then walked as fast as I could to the stairs, I didn't look back, I was out of there!!!!

Needless to say there has been no further contact - it is amazing just how busy a girl can be!!!!!

Time for an update!!!

2005-11-05T14:47:00.000Z

Thought I'd sit down and write again! It has been a crazy week, what with wretched Halloween and now the 'war zone' like Harpurhey thanks to the wonders of fireworks!! Had some of the lads telling me how they had got into the abandoned Bingo Hall - they left the door open apparently - and stolen loads of chocolate. They were planning on going back for the Champagne and Wide Screen TVs later! It is pointless telling them not to - so I advised them to think about what they took at what the consequences might be i.e. chocolate less of a deal than wide screen TV! Ok, so there is no grade of sin but nonetheless!!!

Was rushing home from a meeting on Wednesday night hoping to catch Granada News. Our Resident's association had put in a bid for a grant so that we can build a children's play area. The Granada satalite van was at the end of the street. I jumped out of the car - rushed in the house - threw my stuff down - turned the TV on - selected 103 and waited. Whilst watching I could hear all this noise outside. Didn't really want to open the door - what if the TV Crew were outside - I was in no state to be on TV (getting vainer and vainer!!!!) I stood behind the door and listened (a fairly normal activity in my house - always worth assessing the situation before opening the front door!!) Didn't take me long to figure out what was happening! Everyone had rushed outside because we had won the bid. I successfully missed the whole lot!!! At least everyone was in a jolly mood. Now the fun will begin with working out how this is going to happen! It is a very proud street - no doubt there will be fall out!!!!!

Went on a Blind Date in half term - now that is a story!!!! I think I will keep you all in waiting for that one (sorry - no sign of wedding bells - just a very good story!!!!!)

Hope every one is well!!!

love

Anna :)

Where does time go!?!

2005-10-17T11:13:00.000Z

Thought I'd better get back on here and typing!!! That's me incase you've forgotten what I look like!!! Just updated Picassa - thought I'd see if it's any easier to use! Work is great - the staff are fantastic - so friendly and supportive, the kids are a real mixed bag which suits me down to the ground. It is a hilarious experience trying to teach Nursery and Reception but I am getting there! Any tips greatfully received on that front! Year six hated me to begin with but we are getting there! Battle of wills where mine will win - they are realising this and beginning to give up!!

Had Ryfka staying for the weekend - was really good to see her. We slotted straight back into the Holly Way days - very amusing! Saw Wallace and Gromit at the weekend - really enjoyed that! Laughed more at the Pixar short at the beginning however, especially the penguin trying to wrap the fish - it is the small things that amuse me! But that trailer for the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - seriously can't wait for that one - looks fantastic!

Anyhows - I must go - work to be done!

Back to work

2005-09-13T18:57:00.000Z

Well - I have ventured back into the world of work (apologies for serious lack of blogging lately - too many trips away etc etc!! Spain, Momentum, Essex and so the list goes on!). New job is great but definitely challenging. Each day is more than different! I am enjoying beginning to get more of a routine going and am looking forward to what else is in store! Hope you are all well :-)

2005-08-14T13:07:00.000Z

I'm getting good at this - for those visual people here is a picture of said book mentioned in previous blog!!!

Fancy a good read?

2005-08-14T13:03:00.000Z

Eden Anna
I've just finished reading 'God is closer than you think' by John Ortburg. It is a definite must read. Has really got me to look at my attitudes and approaches to stuff. Well worth investing some time in.

There is also a book now available that traces the history of the Eden projects in Manchester and how they are established etc. It is an easy and very informative read. If you want to understand a bit more of what we all get up to then it is worth looking at (if you buy it direct from the message it will only cost a fiver!).

2005-07-25T14:14:00.000Z

Andy and Nikki - the happy couple!!! Ahh!!!

2005-07-25T14:13:00.000Z

The stunning bridesmaids being very sensible at the church!!

2005-07-25T14:12:00.000Z

Was quite a dull wedding really!!! Me, Cara, Dave, Sarah and Phil making the most of a photo opportunity!

2005-07-25T14:10:00.000Z

This is Simon and I after having trashed the first dance!!! The Bride and Groom started dancing so beautifully to Norah Jones, myself, the best man, the other bridesmaid and Simon joined in - once they had had enough we counted to 5, the music changed and our spectacular routine began - if you have seen the dance scene from Hitch you'll know what we did and the music we played!!! It worked extremely well!!!

Wedding Preparations!

2005-07-22T12:40:00.000Z

Eden Anna
My old house mate is getting married this Sunday, Nikki, and I have the joy of being Chief Bridesmaid! We are now at the last stages of preparation and I've been busily making phonecalls and confirming last minute details as the Bride is sick of having to organise stuff!!! It is looking like it is all coming together nicely - just got to pray for no rain - there are a lot of grey clouds over Manchester at the moment!!!

Just been and had a magic tan done - a very comedy experience!! I really want to wash my face cos it looks so strange but I know I must wait - only five more hours!!! A group of us are taking a friend out for dinner tonight cos they lost their job today - hopefully I'll be able to wash my face by then - not being vain, self-centred or anything like that!!

2005-07-21T09:32:00.000Z

Been in Dublin for the last few days! This is me in the gravity bar at the Guinness Storehouse. My face looks so optomistic as I go for my first ever taste of Guinness!!

2005-07-21T09:31:00.000Z

My glass is the one on the right! I just couldn't do it - that stuff is foul!!! Each mouthful was a trauma!! We had a point scoring game going on whilst away and I lost 20 points for not drinking my pint & I didn't care!!!! Sadly though I lost the game totally with a score of minus 74 - it became a bit of a joke to make me lose them in the end!!!

2005-07-07T08:31:00.000Z

Not sure how we got that one! That is definitely the City Stadium & we definitely didn't get to go that near the front - interesting!

2005-07-07T08:29:00.000Z

Nice one!!!

2005-07-07T08:28:00.000Z

Had some more U2 pictures sent to me!

2005-07-06T23:15:00.000Z

Just seen this movie - can any one explain to me how the machine pod like things got killed off? Virtually everyone walked out of the cinema looking very blankly at each other!! Stupid film!!!

2005-07-06T17:25:00.000Z

Just spent the last three days in Norfolk. Stayed in a lovely b&b in Hunstanton and then went to visit the very olds! Had a lot of fun with my slightly crazy Granny and did a very good job of playing twenty questions with Grandpa. Had a lovely walk along the beach where my mind was full of memories of all the different things we used to do as kids. Going to Norfolk is such a trip down memory lane!!!

More importantly the lady at the b&b thought I was only 22!!!!!

My priorities are straight!!!

I have two new heros!!!!

2005-06-22T08:49:00.000Z

Eden Anna
Went out for dinner last night to the house of two people in my home group, Dave and Phil. It was a really good evening & they have earned themselves current hero status!!! My car stereo broke whilst I was away (car was on loan to someone else) & I have been seriously missing my music! These two guys with their technical expertise fixed the whole thing for me (apparently only a fuse had blown, behind the stereo - not in the car's fuse box) I am seriously impressed hence my decision to give them current hero status!!! The cd player (which hasn't worked for a while now) is the next thing that they are determined to fix for me. If they manage it then they will be able to maintain hero status for at least a month!!! I was a good girl and did the washing up as a way of saying thank you!!!

2005-06-21T23:21:00.000Z

For those of you who'd appreciate just how things looked!

2005-06-21T23:19:00.000Z

Me at U2 with James, Garron and Cara!!! A concert well worth remembering!!!

2005-06-17T13:24:00.000Z

Me!

U2 Vertigo!!!

2005-06-15T23:14:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Just got back from the gig - oh my word - how amazing!!! Ears are still ringing!! A truly fantastic experience - if you are going don't leave until 'the end' appears in big red letters on the screen!!!!! I shall not say any more because I do not want to spoil it - you will not be disappointed!!!!

Some photos are up!

2005-06-15T09:11:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Out ove 486 photos I have gracefully selected 30 for you to see!!!! If you scroll down to the bottom and then work your way upwards you'll see them in the right order!!! Can't work out how to put a picture of me on my profile - what is a photo url?!!?

2005-06-15T09:04:00.001Z

That's the way to tour California!!! If you can see it!

2005-06-15T09:04:00.000Z

The sunset on the last night of our holiday!

2005-06-15T09:03:00.000Z

Nope = that one hasn't worked either - we actually took about 20 attempts - the giggling got too much - the sun blinded us - we gave up!!!!

2005-06-15T09:02:00.000Z

Yes - a photo of us together on the beach is a great idea - oh - too much hair Charlotte!!!!!

2005-06-15T09:01:00.000Z

The view from our bedroom window - tough living!!!!

2005-06-15T09:00:00.000Z

Our place of residence for the duration of our stay!!! It was ok!!!!!

2005-06-15T08:59:00.000Z

Oh yeah baby - the water show outside Bellagio - stick on the theme tune to Titanic - with Celine Dion singing and you'll begin to get a flavour of it!!!

2005-06-15T08:57:00.000Z

The Bellagio - tragically robbed by George Clooney and Brad Pitt a few years ago!!! A beautiful place!

2005-06-15T08:56:00.001Z

Start spreading the news......I wanna be a part of it..... NEW YORK NEW YORK!!!!!

2005-06-15T08:56:00.000Z

Our hotel!!!

2005-06-15T08:55:00.000Z

Charlotte arrives at our hotel in Vegas in style!

2005-06-15T08:54:00.001Z

The view from Glacier point was spectacular - it rendered both Charlotte and I speechless at the same time - a moment to go down in history!!!!

2005-06-15T08:54:00.000Z

It really is snow!!!! Strange looking snow person though

2005-06-15T08:53:00.000Z

Snow in June - surely not?!?!?

2005-06-15T08:51:00.000Z

Yes - it is a photo of a big stone!

2005-06-15T08:50:00.000Z

Considering the mood that I was in due to hot feet, multiple mosquito bites & poor map reading skills this is a remarkable photo!!!!!

2005-06-15T08:49:00.000Z

Yosemite Falls - very beautiful due to heavy snow fall last winter so big thaw now happening!

2005-06-15T08:48:00.000Z

Get me and my Thelma and Louise lifestyle!!!!

2005-06-15T08:47:00.000Z

Balboa Island - we were both going for the artiest shot possible - between us I think there are about fifty pictures which i can easily bore you with!!!!

2005-06-15T08:46:00.000Z

Not so sure about Charlotte's though!!!

2005-06-15T08:45:00.001Z

Yes, yes, I do have good posture

2005-06-15T08:45:00.000Z

Comedy man entertaining us whilst waiting for Animal Planet live!

2005-06-15T08:44:00.000Z

The worst ride ever!!!! You sit in your seat, you're all strapped in - slowly you move round this display of Egyptian artefacts - you scream because water lands on your head but it happens to absolutely no one else, they all think that you are very weird!! Suddenly the ride shoots forward so fast your head is pushed back into the head rest - it hurts because you're wearing a clip!! You shoot round to the left, the right, you're just getting into the swing of it when the ride stops. You wonder what is going on - very slowly you begin to move backwards - you see the complete ride in reverse. You get off to people giving you a round of applause for managing to complete the ride. You look at them very blankly and then grumble about how short it was and how your head now hurts due to clip incident!!!!

2005-06-15T08:40:00.000Z

Scene from the up and coming War of the Worlds movie!!!

2005-06-15T08:39:00.000Z

Whosville - sadly to say I got very overexcited at the glimpse of this!! From the Grinch, those of you who are unfamiliar with such quality filming!!!

2005-06-15T08:38:00.000Z

Can you guess which street this is?

2005-06-15T08:37:00.000Z

Genovia!!! That will make sense to Matt and Alison - oh, and anyone else who has seen Princess Diaries!!!!

2005-06-15T08:36:00.001Z

Just look at what was being filmed at Universal!

2005-06-15T08:36:00.000Z

Yes - I do believe that the car I am driving has no roof! How peculiar!!

2005-06-15T08:34:00.000Z

A golf buggy in Emerald Bay customised to be like a Hummer - the guy inside it is some random Englishman that we met!

The interview

2005-06-14T17:47:00.000Z

Eden Anna
I got the job!!!!!

I am well pleased!!!

Part time as of September!!

Will give remainder of working week to Eden!!

Woo Hoo!!!!

My photos!

2005-06-14T14:27:00.000Z

Eden Anna
Ok, so I have downloaded hello! My cd-rom with all my holiday pictures isn't working - however, all is not lost!! Alex has them all on his laptop and they have all been transfered to Dad's computer. So they will be on their way to me soon & then I will bore you all with lots and lots and lots of pictures!!! Was chatting to Dad this morning & he told me that he had seen all my pictures - one better than me!!!

Had a job interview today - seems like it went well - however, experience tells me that that doesn't mean anything!!! Even though the chair of governors did slam his hand down on the desk and said 'Sold' after he asked me to say why I thought I was suitable for the job!! It is a part time post so will be interesting to see what happens!

Went to work yesterday - long story - doubt I will be returning!!!

Still feel so jet lagged - anyone got any tips?!!?

Jet lag

2005-06-12T13:29:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Ok - tis really showing due to errors just made on blog!!! Am currently sitting through a bridesmaid dress fitting session ready for my friend's wedding in six weeks!! I hate this jet lag stuff! Keep doing lots of different things to keep myself awake!

Oh no!

2005-06-10T05:37:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Am feeling rather sad!!! Got to get up in the morning ready to leave the house by 5am!!! I don't want to leave this beautiful, sunny place!!! Can't the holiday feeling go on for just that little bit longer?!!? Got to sit on a plane for hours - oh no!!! But you know what they say - it is better to leave wanting more!!! The convertible will have to be returned, the tan will fade, oh no!!!

I'm back!!! But still in Emerald Bay !!

2005-06-09T01:48:00.000Z

Eden Anna

We have just returned from an unbelievably long road trip!! We drove up to Yosemite, round to Las Vegas and then back Emerald Bay!! We have had a fantastic time and giggled lots - not a surprise for Charlotte and I! There are just too many stories to tell! I shall have to look through the photos and remind myself - I will bore you with them shortly!! Face is feeling a bit sore from all the sun, feet are hurting from so much walking, arms, back and legs itchy from mosquito bites but I have had a great time!

Eden Anna

2005-06-03T19:30:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Well, we're about to head north and doubt we'll have internet access! But we will see! Going to go up to Yosemite and over to Las Vegas - should be really good fun! So, lots of pictures and news to tell you later! We'll enjoy - so should you!!! Big thanks to Alex and Pam for treating us to a night in a b&b allowing us to spend longer at Yosemite!

Thursday 2nd June

2005-06-03T15:49:00.000Z

Eden Anna
Woke up late today - opps!!! Mark showed up and we witnessed a fascinating conversation as to who should run for congress!

Visited Fashion Island - a great place to see the true OC lifestyle - plastic people walking around with fake tans and little dogs! We visited one pet shop where the dog accessories were just hilarious - baseball caps with fake sunglasses stuck on them, cow boy/girl hats, pink fluffy wraps, tee-shirt, diamonte leads and so it went on! The actual dogs were extremely cute, however!!

The cheesecake factory seemed to stumble upon us and so we felt it would be rude not to buy a slice, each, with cream! Very tasty, very filling!

Balboa Island (one of the places that they film the OC) then took our attention. We hung out on the beach, I tried to take a clever photo of a seagull - 30 pictures later I think I got two that worked!! We walked along the pier to Ruby's (if you're ever in Southern California you have to go to Ruby's - tis not Ruby Tuesdays - it is so much better than that!!!!) One Rubymelt later we headed back to the car to go out for a meal - interesting - the day seems to be revolving around food!!!!

On Monday we met some random people and some of them offered to take us out for a Japanise so we met up with them and had a brilliant night - lots of laughter and lots of fun! We went to a Japanise restaurant where you had the grill in the middle of the table and had to cook the food yourself. Our friend, Tim, sorted out everything for us - much to our relief - right down to trainer chopsticks because Charlotte and I were so rubbish with the real things!!! The food was amazing! We then headed to a Japanise supermarket - which was an experience in itself and brought dessert. I was a little scared about dessert because it all seemed to be made from beans - not chocolate!! However, it tasted fantastic and I now love Japanise - don't think I've spelt it right though!! A good meal to eat if you are in America because it isn't burgers and fries!!!

We were then taken to a place called the Gypsy Den for coffee. A quirky place with a great atmosphere. It was a really good evening with lots of giggling & some great God chats too!

Eden Anna: Los Annageles Wednesday 1st June!

2005-06-02T16:22:00.000Z

Eden Anna: Los Annageles!

Headed on up to LA - very long drive! Went to Universal Studios where we went on the studio tour. I was most excited to see Whosville from the Grinch and the crash site from the new, up and coming movie - War of the Worlds!!!! Jaws didn't work which was quite a comedy moment, they still take you through the King Kong bridge, the earthquake, the flood of water and so on. Got to see the end of Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives - I was gutted, it was a closed lot because they were filming the new series! I'm sure I spotted Susan's house though. Went on the Jurassic Park ride, Revenge of the Mummy (very rubbish - not enough space so we'll send you on a rollercoaster ride - just as you really get into it we'll make it stop, and then send you on the same ride backwards, oh, and at half the speed) finally got to go on Shrek 4D which I loved!

Having made the most of Universal we headed on down to Hollywood - Charlotte loved it! She snapped away, we tried to get up into the hills to get as close to the big Hollywood letters as possible, didn't do too bad a job of it really! As Hollywood is such a dump we went to Beverly Hills - we also found the edge of Bel Air - it looked so exclusive we were too scared to drive in there! We met up with Alison and Travis in the evening and they took us out for an unbelievably good mexican! We hung out with them for a while and then headed home - it was a late one!

Los Annageles!

2005-06-01T15:30:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Ok, so I'm making a few errors trying to sus out this blogging existance!! Seeing that I can't get the photos to work on the other website I thought I'd give this one a try! Had the blog for ages, just not got round to sharing it!

SUNDAY

Flipping long flight - 22 hours of sunshine led to over stimulation - wondered when the sun was ever gonna go down! Flight to Atlanta was good - even though the guy beside us had a cat and it was all a little strange! Met Charlotte really easily, discovered that my mobile isn't tri-band - very annoyed!!!

Met Pam and Alex and drove to Emerald Bay - hey - what a good idea this holiday was!!!

MONDAY

Sleep was good - not too confused. Went up for breakfast and a very excited Pam came into the room announcing that she had a girl and four single Christian guys coming over at two, they were going to take us out. Oh dear, she's started already!!!

Went to collect the hire car - got offered an upgrade - Charlotte and I are now cruising around California in a convertible - oh yes, you heard me, a convertible!!!!!! A Chrystler (if that's spelt right) Sebring GTC to be precise - we are loving it!!!!!

The people were great, we hung out at the beach, chatted, one English guy taught them all rugby - I kept out of that one! We ended up at some random barbeque in Newport Beach, about 20 Christians, some who have known each other for ages - some who have never met before!!!

Was wearing quite a large necklace all day - has led to interesting tan marks - no more necklaces for me this fortnight!!!!

TUESDAY

Jet lag so not a problem - so very pleased! Got up and went to see Ruth, she had called many times already to see us!! Navigating our way there was a fascinating experience - one way systems, confusing road signs!!! We eventually got there! We went on to meet Cathy and Beth at a restaurant near San Capistrano Mission. We had a really great meal, swapped stories and pictures etc!! We headed off for a walk down the oldest street in California & met some very random person who said that they were our guardian angel - interesting!

We left Ruth and headed off to San Clemente beach for an ice-cream (I had Chocolate and peanut butter - very good!) & then made our way to Ruby's for the must have burgers of southern California. We also made our plans for today - Universal Studios, Hollywood! Nice one! It is 8:30 am here and we're just about to have breakfast and then hit the road!

Los Annageles!

2005-06-01T15:16:00.000Z

Eden Anna

Here we go

2005-03-23T14:23:00.000Z

Well, it's a bandwagon and I've jumped on it!! Seems like a really good way to keep people randomly updated with life. When I get the chance, of course!! Have had a lot of fun looking at people's blogs whilst I've had some time. Am at sunny Chelmers at the moment! Really should get outside and enjoy the greenary for a while. Nothing quite beats a change of scenary!