Nicola on a Mission!

I Am Working… Honest!

Nicola — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:28:01 +0000

Well I said I was going to tell you all about what I’m up to here. And I didn’t… Sorry! So here it is, finally!

One of the projects I am involved in here is the Oasis academy. I think I’ve talked a bit about it before on my blog. But to save you hunting through to find out about it, I’ll put it in here as well. The academy is a secondary school [for 11-16 year old students.] Oasis were given permission from the government to take over a number of failing schools throughout the country, hope high [now the Oasis Academy] being one of them. Now, with thee Christian influence, the school is doing well and the students are getting access to fantastic resources. I help with a year 7 [11 year olds] group. These students have some learning and behavioural difficulties and are not fully integrated into the mainstream life of the school. I’ve been involved in some cooking lessons [it's probably called food and nutrition sciences or something now!] I am also around during their “creative curriculum” lessons.” Mostly, I work with the girls in the class and will be starting some mentoring with them next week. It is true that these students can be challenging. But I have been so surprised at their reaction to me. One time, I was in the class with them and as soon as I walked in, 3 or 4 of them were saying “can she sit next to me.” They were so fantastic at showing me where to go and even gave up some of their break time to make sure I got to where I needed to be next. Their care and attentiveness towards me have really touched me. I have also discovered that these young people are craving encouragement and positivity. It’s strange to think that although they have so much in terms of play stations, TV’s, computers and the latest trainers, they are, in many ways, in the exact same position as the children in South Africa. These kid are so hungry for praise, so eager for positive attention. The teachers in the academy are doing an amazing job. But sitting down and working with 1 or 2 students, I have really noticed how much difference just being there can make. Simple things, like saying “you’re working so well” have such an impact. I’m really starting to realise that I don’t actually have to do something amazing to make a positive impact on these young people.

Last week, during half term, we ran a holiday club for the local primary school children. We organised craft sessions for them. It was a fantastic opportunity to get to know them on a more fun and informal level. We made pop up puppets, bat and balls and funky fridge magnets. It was really relaxed and chilled out. It was also a fantastic opportunity to build links with our local cafe, where we held the club.

Another of the projects we are involved in is the local youth group. To be honest, it felt like another world to me. I realised just how middle class i am! The life that these young people have is just totally alien to me. There have been so many evenings when young children, still in pushchairs have still been out at gone ten at night, even in the cold and rain. I found it so strange. Also so many of the young people have nothing to do. So they just hang around, drinking, smoking and kicking footballs around. And another scary thing I’ve noticed is that I have real trouble understanding what they are saying. They say something and I think “surely that was a foreign language.” Then a few seconds later it clicks that actually it was english! Hmmm, hopefully this will improve with more practise!

All About Me!

Nicola — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:45:37 +0000

For all of you people who I haven’t been in contact with for ages, and for all of you who just wanted me to mention you on my blog, here it is! All my latest news…

Firstly, I want to praise God for his exceptional planning, timing, and the amazing way he just knows what will happen. From the girl who doesn’t usually know what she’s doing in the next five minutes, I potentially have the next two years of my life planned. Well… Sort of planned… From August 25, I will be joining the millions of citizens in the UK who’s hard earned money goes towards the government’s liking of chinese takeaways! Yes, I have a job!!
I will be the assistant chaplain of Southlands College, Roehampton University. I will be helping to lead and plan services and events in the chappel, as well as being there for the students and brining mor students into the chappel community! God’s hand was so definitely in it! The first job I ever apply for, and the first interview I attend, and I get the job. It’s amazing! I’m really excited to be going back there. The campus is so lovely and I feel such a sense of peace in the whole place. Praise God!

I had such an amazing week last week. Michael came to stay for a few days, and we went to visit some friends who I haven’t seen for ages. They really are such an inspirational couple. They have 2 chilren, both under 2.5 years. The guy is studying for a law degree and they live in the outskirts of Manchester. They are amazing parents. They inspire me so much because the mum is totally blind, and the Dad has limited sight as well. And yet, they are doing a fantastic job and bring up 2 wonderful little boys! I found myself realising that at some point, if I wanted a family of my own, that it would be possible. In fact, it would be more than possible! With God’s help, and the help and support of family and friends, the idea actually makes me smile now!

My family also came up for a couple of days. It was so lovely to see them. We went exploring Manchester. They brought the sun up with them too, so it was pure heaven to sit and defrost! On Thursday we went to a place about 1.5 hours drive away, where they have wild monkeys living in a beautiful forest. It was really nice there. ne monkey had a tiny 3 day old baby. They were all just chilling out in the trees, snoozing in the sun, eating or ambling around posing for photos! They were so cute!

The next few weeks here willbe really bus so it was so nice to spend time with family and Michael and catch up on all the stuff going on!

For All You Nagging People!

Nicola — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:58:53 +0000

Hello and welcome back! After a shockingly long and unexplainable absense, here I am, finally back in the sunny world of my blog! And not that I want to encourage any of you… [You know who you are, Mum, Dad, Beth, Naomi, and everyone else who's told me to write ] but thanks for all the pokes and prods!

So here I am, sitting in cropped trousers and a t shirt, with the sun shining outside, wondering if this really is Salford. Is this, I ask myself, really the same place where 2 weeks ago, I discovered that my trusted trainers, which withstood the dizzying heights of Table Mountain, are incapable of surviving a Salford downpour? Is this sun drenched corner of God’s beautiful world really the same place where I told my family to bring me up more jumpers and my walking boots last week? So anyway, here I am, topping up my tan and feeling much more at home in the sun!

So what’s been going on in the crazy and recently silent world of Nicolaland? It’s only now as I try and figure out in what order to put down all my updates that I again pledge to be better at blogging. I will try not to get this far behind again! Well I think that my news, along with the general goings on here in Salford deserve their own entries, which I will post now. But until then, I’ll leave you with this thought…

Isn’t it truly incredible that God has provided us with such a beautiful place to live, such inspirational and wonderful people to share it with, as well as giving us hope and excitement for an amazing eternity?

Don’t You just Love Irony?

Nicola — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:46:54 +0000

It’s funny isn’t it. Here I am in a house with internet connection the whole time and yet it takes me well over a week to get around to posting on here. But in South Africa, where I had limited and very dodgy internet, I did a much better job of keeping you up to date! Well appologies in advance for my poor and inconsistant blogging while in Salford!
Well it’s been an eventful time so far. I’ve met a lot of the local young people and they are all very interesting, lively, exuberant and strong willed! I’ve learnt a lot so far from spending 2 Monday evenings in the youth club! I’m also in the process of getting to know the year 1′s and 2′s at a primary school. We go in at lunchtimes twice a week to sit with them and play in the playground afterwards. It’s a lot of fun! I made the fatal mistake of showing them how my cane works and since then they all always want a go… And another go… And just one more go…
We have organised to work in the Oasis Academy, which is a secondary school 2 mornings a week. I will be based with a group of year 7 girls, and, believe it or not, I’m going to be their mentor! They all have varying social and/or behavioural issues so I’m going to use all my powers of persuasion, creativity, pleading and bribery to get them to trust me enough to open up!

I’m starting to get to know all the members of our church as well which is great. I got to do a presentation on Sunday about South Africa and I’m helping plan upcoming services and events. We went to some people’s house on Sunday for a barbecue and we’re being taken out on Thursday evening by a lady who is very good friends with lots of Manchester United players and personell.

I am so so lucky to have two awsome housemates. They are so much fun! We all love cooking so I’m eating so much amazing food at the moment. But it’s ok… I’ve joined the gym!

I found out something today which I didn’t know. Apparently schools up here have 2 weeks off for half term. Is this the same everywhere? If so, how is it possible that I have a boyfriend, mum and sister who all work in different schools and I didn’t know?

Adventure Number Two!

Nicola — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 20:07:02 +0000

Welcome to Salford!

Yes I’m writing this from my new house in Salford. I moved in yesterday. We live in a counsil estate, but it’s pretty green around us.

I went to church this morning and met most of the members. They all seem so lovely and welcoming. I’m so excited about getting to know them all more and working with them!

You know it’s amazing how perfect God’s plans really are. this time last year I was feeling a bit upset that I wouldn’t be working in London. But now, having done the training and met the team, I can really start to see why God brought me here. One of the things that the church here wants to explore further is their worship, and possibly finding a worship leader. This is a dream of mine so hopefully I will get the opportunity to use my gifts, if this is what God wants for me.

So thanks for joining me on my South Africa adventure. And I really hope you will stay with me on my Salford journey as well. I really appreciate your support, comments and prayers.

There’s No Place Like Home

Nicola — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:00:30 +0000

Ok So I’ve been pretty quiet over the last 2 weeks. Well the main news, as most of you will already know, is that I’m back, safe but cold from South Africa. I’ve spent the time with family, Michael and catching up with friends. It’s so fantastic to see everyone again. And I even managed to bring some sunshine back with me, well at least for a few days! But sitting here in my house, leaning against a warm radiator and with a perfect internet connection, I can’t help thinking about my house in Cosmo City. It’s true, there are some things I won’t miss that much. The flies, everywhere… All the time! The truly rubbish cake! A washing machine that must be supervised at all times to make sure it doesn’t wander across our kitchen spluttering water everywhere!

But there are so many more things that I will miss. The community health workers singing so enthusiastically. The kids knocking at our gate. The beautiful sunny mornings. The amazing warmth of everyone we meet. People’s absolute and total faith in God’s provision.

So am I the same person? That same Nicola who left London back in October?

Well in some ways yes, but in more ways no! My faith in my amazing God, my rock, my strength and my hope has grown enormously. My determination to try new things and overcome problems is, if anything, more pronounced than before. My ability to show emotions has improved incredibly; Now I cry at anything! But I think the thing you all most want to know is…

Am I still Girlie? Did I leave Girlie Nic in SA?

Well I’m proud to say that she arrived safe and happy back in the UK and is settling in well to life in England! Although she does maintain that jeans and trainers are still the most comfortable things to wear!

So here’s a huge thank you for following me on my amazing journey. I really hope you will come with me to Salford, Manchester in 2 weeks time for my next big adventure!

Last Post in South Africa

Nicola — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 09:45:09 +0000

Wow. I can’t believe five months is over. So now I have to pack all my clothes, presents and memories back in my suitcases ready for the long flight home tomorrow night. But, in true style, we are filling our time with ten thousand and one things…

On Monday we went to the hospice for the final time. It was hard saying goodbye to all of the patients, but so amazing to see their progress. Tuesday I went to my favourite pre school. The kids there were as adorable as ever. Wednesday found me with the bridge the gap students. Yesterday was the final soup kitchen. Then we had a presentation from a policeman about drugs here in South africa. We visited Nicola in the afternoon. Saying goodbye to her was hard, she’s been such an amazing mentor. Last night we went out for drinks and desserts with our friends. This afternoon we will give a presentation to the Oasis staff of our time here, which includes lots of silly and incriminating photos! Tomorrow morning we are having a huge braai before we go.

As I sit here in our office for the last afternoon, I can’t decide how I feel. I’m so excited to see you all, but I am totally sure that part of my heart will always be here. All the people I have come into contact here, from our boss, to volunteers, children, people in church and strangers on the street have shown me so much abuot what it means to be a real community, and just how amazing it is to have God working with you.

One of my favourite things about here is the openness to talk about God and acknowledge him in people’s lives. I also love how chilled out it is here, how you can work with the children, smile at someone without causing people to wonder what you want, and say good morning to people you’ve never seen before.

I’ll write more when I’m back home, but for now, this is it, my South African journey so far.

How Very English!

Nicola — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:05:08 +0000

I thought I would update you on my weekend…

Saturday was a momentous day for me. It was the day when I ceased being the same age as any of my fellow team members and became, acording to them, officially an adult. Yes it was my 22nd Birthday! And a strangely upside down experience it was to be wearing a knee length strappy dress and chilling in the sun!

I got up on Saturday morning to find the team had decorated and made me breakfast! Part of their birthday present for me was to book me a facial. They have already learnt that I don’t treat myself enough. It’s something that I keep meaning to get around to finding time to do… But well I’ve been busy! Anyway it was so nice! I’m sure the girl used more products in half an hour than I would ever consider using in a whole year!

We spent the morning making a mountain of sandwiches for my English picnic! We had cheese, turkey salad, peanut butter and even some jam ones as well. We decided that as we have been exposed to the most South African of braais, it was time to repay the favour with a traditional bit of englishness! So, armed with our cool boxes filled with triangular sandwiches, coctail sausages, cheese and pineapple, pringles and amazing cake, we ventured forth to the Botanical Gardens.

It was a beautiful afternoon. We took some of the local children and they were totally enchanted with the waterfall and spent the time exploring! It was so nice to chat to everyone and enjoy the sunshine! In true english tradition, we had a short sharp shower just as we were leaving! But that just added to the englishness!

I have to tell you that everyone hear has been aiding and abetting my girliness by buying me more jewellery! It’s a good thing I’m getting a new suitcase tomorrow!

Colin

Nicola — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:21:13 +0000

Some of you will know that one of my good friends, Colin, has been very ill recently. He has been in hospital since December with pneumonia and has been on a ventilator with a tube in his neck since then. As a team we have been praying so much for him over the last eight weeks or so. A few weeks ago he was no better and I had a huge rant at God for not performing a miracle and healing him. His condition was described then as “precarious” even by the most optimistic of people.

This morning I found out that he is finally off the ventilator, which means he is able to talk again. He is expected home in 2 weeks if all goes well!

Praise God!!

Hospice Update

Nicola — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 07:45:39 +0000

On Thursday mornings I get up at an unearthly hour to go and spend a few hours at the HIV hospice in the centre of Johannesburg. Over the last five months we have done various activities with the patients there, from dominos and Jenga to biscuit decorating, making Christmas crackers, mug painting and creating works of art to put on he walls.

Some of the patients were so sick when we first arrived. One lady was really weak, with no energy to talk or sit up. But now she joins in with whatever we are doing and has the most fantastic sense of humour and infectios laugh ever! Another guy there has just become so much more chatty now and is so happy to see us. Another of the ladies has been struggling a lot recently with illness but is now getting better. But the best news is that all of these amazing people have been discharged from the main hospice into out patients!

There is a lady who stays at the hospice who is a teacher from Zimbabwe. She arrived in December and has always been so enthusiastic and pleased to see us and join in whatever we are doing. Yesterday she wrote us such a lovely letter, saying thank you for all our love and care for her over the last few weeks. It struck me so strongly just how much I will miss all of these guys and I wonder what will be in their futures!

I’m so glad we have been able to spend time with these wonderful people and make even a small difference to them. But will they ever know what they have done for me? The sense of hope that each person there has is truly inspirational. One of the things that I will always remember is the children’s room. On the wall above the beds of these kids with HIV are the following signs.
“Jesus loves me.”
“God is my friend and keeper.”
“I am very special to God.”
Amen to that!

Joyful In Hope

Nicola — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 06:27:39 +0000

Yesterday we organised a big prayer day in our office. Each room was for something different. We had a silent prayer room, creative area with paints, music, communion, verses and news stories on the walls. The main time was between 12 and 1.30 yesterday lunchtime. All the Oasis staff, community health workers and various other volunteers who could come were there. For most of the time I stayed in the garage, where people could pray out loud and together. The community health workers took it upon themselves to worship and glorify God with the most amazing singing I have ever heard. It truly is inspiring to hear around twenty-five people singing with all their hearts and souls, praising and worshiping our awesome God.

But for me the most amazing part of this is the fact that it is the community wellness project which is in most need of funding, and is therefore in most danger of closing down. This would mean that none of the community health workers would have a job and would lose the income they get from Oasis. Yet despite this threat, they choose to really put into practice the phrase in Romans 12.
“Be Joyful in hope… Patient in prayer.”

Capetown

Nicola — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 07:09:50 +0000

Wow! I’m sitting back in our office on Friday morning, while it’s grey, cool and cloudy outside trying to find words to express just how amazing Capetown is…

We stayed in a small town just outside of Capetown called Fishhoek! It is a beautiful little seaside town. Our house was so beautiful. We were on a mountain and could see so much from there over the sea.

On Sunday, as it was clear, we decided to go to Table Mountain. Instead of choosing the cable car to reach the top, which would have taken about five minutes, we decided to walk up. And believe me, it was no easy stroll! Most of the uneven rocky step type things were at least knee high! But, with the amazing help of my team, we made it! Just in time to hear the sirens for the last cabel car down as it was so windy up at the top. So we ran across the top of the mountain, not stopping for photos and thankfully managed to get the cable car! I definitely discovered muscles I thought I’d forgotten about!

On Monday we had a well earned relaxing time on the beach. Imagine a gorgeous beach, with palm trees, powdery white sand and crystal clear blue-green water. Well this is exactly where I was!
Tuesday found us at Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. It is also the most southern point in Africa. It is stunning there. We also went to a beach where there is a huge colony of penguines. Yes, actual penguines chilling out on the rocks and lazing in the sun! Pretty amazing and strangly out of place don’t you think?
On Wednesday we spent the day at the water front in Capetown. We went for a speed boat ride and in the afternoon took the ferry across to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held in prison for eighteen years. We were taken round the prison by an X prisoner. It was incredible to hear him say how all of the inmates who were held because of fighting against the apparthied weren’t bitter and were so proud of what they did! He told us ow the prison wardens tried to separate the prisoners acording to their colour. The indian and coloured men were given more and better food than the black men. However, they all shared, thus making the bonds of unity across the racial divides even stronger and more pronounced.The water front is so beautiful, wih lots of shops, restaurants and boats to keep you amused.

Some thoughts about Capetown…
It really is such a beautiful part of South Africa, with such a range of things to see and do, from fantastic beaches to mountains, vinyards, shark diving, and amazing scenery. Robben Island was truly inspirational. There are actual people whose job it is to sit on top of a hill and keep a look out for sharks approaching!

So Capetown, along with Swaziland are 2 places which I have fallen totally in love with. I really hope to come back and spend longer in this amazing corner of Africa!

Holiday Number Two!!

Nicola — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 10:06:12 +0000

Dear Reader,

I regret to inform you that Nicola will be absent from any computer over the next few days as she is going on holiday tomorrow and won’t be back until Thursday.

Kind Regards.

Yep, it’s true! We’re off to Capetown tomorrow until Thursday! Sunshine, Sea, Sand, , Table Mountain, penguines and 2 oceans here I come!!

I hope you all have a good few days. Hopefully I can write next Friday telling about our conquering Table Mountain, swimming with penguines, chilling on the beach and exploring a little bit more of this amazing country! Have fun!

Can YOU Join With God In Performing A Miracle?

Nicola — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 07:04:34 +0000

I am so blessed and lucky to have the most supportive friends and family in the world! And at the moment, Oasis SA needs your help…

At the start of the week we had a big team meeting to discuss funding. We applied for money from various companies and the government but because of the current financial situation, all decisions were either declined or postponed. With the money we have all projects could run until May this year, when they would have to start closing. The first to go would be the work with children in the local schools. To give you an example, we recently did a project where we had the honour of telling around two hundred eight year olds who live in an informal settlement that they are special and that God loves them. From May work such as this will not be able to happen. Other projects like the community health work will also stop by July. It’s heartbreaking. Oasis as a global family do such inspiring work, serving our amazing God and his people with love, compassion and humility.

We desperately need your prayers over the next few weeks to ask for funding, peace for the staff and the hope and ability to continue doing God’s work. Please take this prayer request to anyone you know and let’s get an international prayer army fighting for God’s people!

On Wednesday we saw how loving God is, and how awesome his provision is. We recieved one of five sets of funding we asked for. Praise God!

But we still need more. If any of you feel you can help in any small way please please let me know.
Together we can help God in doing an amazing miracle, and helping his glorious kingdom here on earth.

A Lot of Love!

Nicola — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:25:10 +0000

I’m sitting in our office thinking about Valentine’s day tomorrow. So I have decided to share with you all the things I love about being here in South Africa!…

1. I love waking up at 5 AM and the sun already shining!
2. I love propper South African braais! [Barbecues but way better!]
3. I love getting e mails! It’s so exciting!
4. I love traditional African singing. It always makes me smile!
5. I love hearing the crickets chirping in the evening.
7. I love getting excited about talking to my family, friends and especially Michael!
8. I love the following conversation that almost takes place as a greeting.
Me: [to a local] Hi.
Local: I’m fine thanks and you?
9. I love being able to do so many new things I wouldn’t normally do in the UK.
10. I really love making you all jealous at our beautiful sunshine!!

So there you are! I’m feeling so full of love right now. I just read a quote about you can’t really love without giving part of yourself. And that’s so true! Africa will certainly be keeping a part of me here. And I will definitely be bringing part of Africa back to England! Hmmm… Maybe I will need a new suitcase afterall…

Welcom to the House of Fun!

Nicola — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:12:48 +0000

I realised I haven’t talked much about all the children recently who visit us most afternoons after school. And, as the title suggests, it is indeed Madness!

There are so many local children who generally play in the streets after school. Some have small bikes, skipping ropes or balls, but mostly they just play together in groups which is lovely. Normally about 2 minutes after we arrive home we hear a familiar tap tapping on our gate and the war cry,
“Chris… Hattie… Open the gate!”
This cry is repeated for as long as it takes someone to decide to go and let them in! Alternatively, if the gate is open, we will find a group of children at our door, or windows saying,
“Knock Knock… Hi… Knock knock!”

Usual persuits of entertainment are singing, dancing, drawing, sticking, face painting, playing football, asking for balloons, and once a giant water fight organised with military planning on our part! All the children love taking photos and seeing themselves on digital cameras. Invariably, if we start off with one or two children, after about 5 minutes we will have most of the kids from the area appearing over the wall, at the gate or running from whatever they were doing at break neck pace to be in on the fun at our house! And as well they all have such amazing names. Blessings, Mpo, Happiness etc.

It will be so strange back in England to not have any little wood pecker type tappings on the gate, little voices in English or otherwise calling us, or demands to open the gate, do face painting, or requests for juice!

Kids, I might sometimes complain and want peace, but really I’ll miss you all loads! Who wants to come to England with me? I’m sure you all want to adopt an adorable African child or 2… or 10… or 20…! Oh and a dog!

Summer’s Back!

Nicola — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:42:28 +0000

It’s official. The sun is Back!! And how warmly we do welcome it back as well!!

I can’t believe it’s Monday again. And so much to update you on…

First a bit of home news. My sister is now, as of Sunday, in Shrelanka for 2 weeks teaching english! So hopefully she’s enjoying the sun too!

Secondly a touch of irony to keep you all amused! We drove to a town about 1.5 hours from Joburg on Saturday and we decided that our little car wouldn’t make it. Bless it, it’s old, rattly, small and just about goes if you ask it very nicely! Also there were 6 of us travelling so we hired a very nice 7 seater car. It was luxury. Air conditioning, leg room, good cd player… Everything that our own lovely car isn’t! Tragically however, as we were about to set out for home having driven to this town, our Taz replacement wouldn’t start! I reckon there’s a lot to be said for loyalty, even among cars! We got home fine though in the end!

We had the most relaxing and wonderful day yesterday. We went to a man made beach and spent the day sunbathing and swimming. It was bliss. I’ve realised that that’s the longest time I have actually relaxed since we got here! And guess what?…

I didn’t get sunburnt!!

Snow Day!

Nicola — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 10:43:27 +0000

Hi and welcome to a fairly warm day here in South Africa. In contrast to you guys back in England with all your snow.

It’s funny how you always want what you don’t have. I love the sunshine here, the fact that you can get up at 6 Aam and already the sun is high. I love how the days are warm with blue sky and fluffy bunny-tail clouds that float lazily about. But despite all this, I find myself seriously wishing I was in the snow, sledging, snowballing, snowman building and generally, to use a phrase from Michael, behaving like overgrown children. I find myself longing for home, the beauty of a white world outside, he weak February sun reflecting off the snow… It just better snow when I get home!

You know what, though?

Despite my moaning, I wouldn’t swap where I am right now for anything. God is doing such an amazing job of blessing and encouraging me at the moment. I had a fantastic time in the pre school this morning and yesterday afternoon we had so much fun with some children round our house. I’m learning how to serve without having to do one thousand other things to feel like I’m achieving it. I’m learning to really see God in every situation, particularly when I am feeling vulnerable. I’m finding out so much of the things I am good at, as well as trying to accept that there are things I struggle with. Yes, superwoman is realising she is, sadly, only human!!

Final thought for now…

I’m so incredibly lucky to be sharing this amazing experience with some of the most inspirational people in the world, as well as the most supportive team I could ever wish to have. However, my biggest blessing is that God is walking right with me, guiding and teaching me to be more like the person he wants me to be.

A Special New Member

Nicola — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 06:43:53 +0000

Last Sunday morning, we had a brand new adition to the Oasis SA team. The couple who head up Oasis ZA, Arnie and Chantel, had a baby girl. Her name is Moya which means spirit or breath. She was 3.1 kilos and is just the most beautiful girly baby in the world. Mum and baby are doing well!

Just now I asked Arnie if it was ok to mention about Moya on my blog, and, with the biggest smile ever, he said “of course!” He is the proudest Dad in the world. It’s amazing!

Praise God for such a beautiful gift!

January! Come Back!!

Nicola — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 06:39:39 +0000

Hi everyone! Sorry it’s been so long since I last updated you. Everything and nothing has been happening in Nicolaland really…
I’ve been up to all my usual antics, hospice, soup kitchen, pre schools etc, not much new to report there. Vicki, hey! Welcome to the land of my blog!! Anna, congratulations on achieving the unheard of and e mailing me!!

You know I have been blessed to experience God in so many ways since I last wrote. First of all, a guy at the hospice, who isn’t a patient, but comes every day to visit a lady who is. They are planning to get married and he is so lovely. Also, as is now my usual tendancy, all the children at the pre school were cute and I may pack a few of them in my suitcase as souvenirs from South Africa!

I think the most amazing thing is that we had a big team prayer meeting on Wednesday where we got to pray for each other. We didn’t discuss beforehand what the person needed prayer for. But it was awesome. I got definite God mail! I got the message so strongly to just trust God completely, as he is walking one step in front of me making a path for me. Amazing!

I can’t believe January is over. Where did it go? And tomorrow is 6 weeks til I leave this inspiring amazing fantastic place I call home! EEK! That’s scary. But watch out, South Africa… I’ll be back!!!

The Gift of the Girliness!

Nicola — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 13:09:10 +0000

Well, dear Reader, I feel I have no choice but to write the following entry on my blog. Some of you know me for always wearing trainers: Others will know that I live in jeans, very rarely bother with make up and don’t care if my jewellery matches my shoes, bag, top or hair style…

I’m sad to tell you that there has been an unforseen tragedy which has taken place here in the amazing and vibrant city of Johannesburg. Yes, dear Reader, I am obliged to report the sad demise of the recognisable Nicola…

Her successor is a much more feminine creature, who has spent the majority of her money over the last 3 days on new earrings and a hair cut. Yes new earrings; Not just new, but new and dangly earrings!

Nicola’s new problem though, which she would very much appreciate any input in solving is…

Now do I buy new necklaces and bracelets to match my new earrings?

A Promise Fulfilled

Nicola — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 06:01:36 +0000

The first time I went out with the community health workers in October, we visited a lady in a wheelchair who was paralysed in her right side. She couldn’t leave her house because there was a step down. We got on so well and she was really disappointed that I wouldn’t be around for her birthday in June. I told her she could be like the queen in England and have an official birthday. I said next time I go back it will be her birthday.

Well after that things got pretty busy and I didn’t have the chance to go back and visit her. But yesterday I finally had that opportunity.

She was so excited to see me again which was so lovely. I took her a chocolate cake and some shortbread biscuits, along with some sweets. She loved all these and was so pleased with her cake. But I also had a present specially for her. I had found a beautiful fine bracelet I thought she would like. It was handmade and so delicate [it was just too big for me, shame!]

She was so happy with it and put it on straight away. I felt so good that I had been given the chance to go back and bless this wonderful lady in such a small and simple way.

Some Truly Inspirational People

Nicola — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:12:50 +0000

Yesterday evening I had the privellige to spend a couple of hours in the company of some of the most inspiring people I have ever met. I had the chance to go and visit a community centre in an area called Westbury. Here, a group of men work tirelessly to improve their community. They all used to be in rival gangs in the area. These gangs were at large during the 1960′s, 70′s and part of the 80′s. Many young people were involved and many were hurt or killed during this time. But in the 80′[s, this group of men decided enough was enough and they wanted to be unified in their mission to stop the gangs. So the group was formed, after much negociations and leaps of faith from all parties. Now, 20 years later, Westbury is proud to say there are no gangs in their area. They work closely with over 150 young people in schools to prevent them from getting involved in gangs. They visit them in their homes, helping them to find their identity and find a place of love and encouragement. This amazing group of men also visit gang members who are in prison for their crimes. They work hard with all the authorities, the police, prison service and schools to support young people.

One member of the group last night told us how they visited a group of 4 men in prison who had, between them, killed 7 young people in one night. He took with him the father of one of these young people so that he could tell the men in prison that he had forgiven them. Most of the men who come out of prison help with mentoring the young people. They can tell them what it is like in prison and act as role models to them.

I was totally blown away by so many of the things that were said last night. The one that sticks out in particular is what one of the x gang members said to me:
“Those men who are now in prison, it is only by the grace of God that they are there. They could have been killed, like those they killed. But God has poured his grace upon them so he has a purpose for their life.”

They believe this purpose, especially for them, is to support young people, to be to them the fathers they don’t have, to show them love and encouragement, to work with churches to make a difference. What more proof of God’s amazing grace do you need?

Fantastic New People!

Nicola — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 15:26:31 +0000

I’ve been so busy since I last wrote! Can’t believe we only got back off holiday last Tuesday! Thursday, Friday and Saturday morning was the induction course for the new group of students joining Oasis on what was known as Skills for Life but is now Bridge the Gap just to confuse them. They are lovely and I lead some of the sessions for them. We even found time for some singing! Saturday morning was the graduation of the last group of students. It was so good to meet up with them again. So many of them got A’s overall in the course. I was so proud of them and spent the entire ceremony grinning manically, causing the new students I was with to ask why! But it was awesome to see so many of them achieving so much!

It was Beth’s 21st on Saturday so we spent the weekend celebrating! We had a big braai yesterday and had a record of 15 children round our house. On Saturday night we went out for a meal to an African restaurant. All the waiters came over with a huge ice cream and sang lots of african songs for Beth’s Birthday. Also the guy who was playing the guitar came and seranaded her. She had a good weekend which is good. And we’re going out again tonight. We have a new couple over from England who are on a world tour and we’re going round for a games evening! Hope you all aren’t too cold. If it makes you feel any better, it rained lots today!

A True Miracle From God

Nicola — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:01:23 +0000

An amazing thing happened on Christmas Eve which I wanted to share with you all. I decided it was worthy of having it’s own special post, which is why it isn’t in my big update.

A few days before Christmas we were all praying as a team about getting post. Here, post arrives in a box about half an hour’s drive from where we are living, so once a week we go to collect it. We all wanted post in time for Christmas so were praying things would arrive. We said we hope we either all get post or none of us do.
On Christmas Eve we went to get the post. All the rest of the team recieved post but I didn’t. Surprisingly, I wasn’t too upset, I really thought I would be. That evening we went to the office to use the internet. The front gate was rusted shut because there was a massive storm the previous night. We tried for 10 minutes but couldn’t open the gate. In the end we went round the back of the office to get in through the back door. Laying by the back gate was a letter. It had clearly been there all night and was covered in mud from the rain. It was addressed to me.

The envelope was full of sand when I opened it. But it was a Christmas card. It was from my next team in Salford, who had the street adress rather than the post box address. The street post is notoriously unreliable. But there it was, just in time for Christmas, having survived the biggest storm we have had since we have been here. I was so overwhelmed. God really is amazing. He can turn little things like Christmas cards into real life miracles. Thank you so much Salford Team, you really don’t know how amazing it was to recieve your card!

A Culture Lesson

Nicola — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 09:54:06 +0000

I thought you might be interested to learn a little about the Swazi culture and Swaziland itself. It is a very peaceful little country just to the east of South Africa. It has a population of about 1.2 million people in the whole country. London has around 6 million people just to put it in context! Traditionally, Swazis live in vilages in small huts made of woven sticks with thatched rooves. The huts are round and are all hand woven; It must take ages! The men, women and children all live separately in different parts of the vilage. Swazi culture means that the men are allowed multiple wives. It is custom for a man to ask a girl’s family permission to marry her and to pay them either in money or cows for her. When they say yes, he must first see if she is able to have children, as this, in their culture, is how a woman should be. So she has children before they marry. Each time she has a child outside of marriage, the man must pay and appologise to her family. It is usual that a woman will have 2 or more children before she marries. But while the man is “dating” this girl, he will also most likely be doing the same with other girls as well.

The king of Swaziland currently has 14 wives and around 28 children. Each year there is a huge national ceromony where all the maidens come to dance for him and he chooses a new wife. The maidens wear barely anything and the festival goes on for days. They must camp out, sleeping rough, wear no shoes and go and collect a certain type of reeds for the king. The final day of the festival is when they all dance for the king.

Nicola’s Huge Update!

Nicola — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 09:45:21 +0000

Hi Everyone! Happy New Year! Welcome to 2009, hope it’s going well for you so far!
So I haven’t posted for so long, we had no internet and then Ive been away on holiday since 27th December! So this entry is a massive update for you all!

The week leading up to Christmas was pretty chaotic. We had to pay 2 lovely visits to the Home Office in the centre of Joburg to sort out our visas. Turns out, having had them for over a month it only took the people 20 minutes to sort all five visas out. Ah, if only we’d known!! Thankfully though, that is now all sorted and we do not ever again have to visit those delightful people!

Christmas day itself was really chilled out. We got up early to watch the sun rise but it was cloudy. We spent the afternoon at some friends’ house, who have a pool. We had a braai [barbecue] and chilled out in the sun with the family. We are so lucky to know such amazing people. They were so welcoming and really made our Christmas day special. In the evening we went to see some Christmas lights in Joburg as there aren’t any round here. We went to the Hilton Hotel for drinks afterwards.
Boxing day morning was pretty quiet. We had some of the local children round and watched a film. In the afternoon it was one of our bosses’ Birthday and we went out for a coffee and cake. In the evening came the dreaded task of packing for our holiday…

We took a minibus on Saturday morning to a place in the north east of South Africa called Nelsprite. We stayed in a hostel and chilled out mainly. But on the Monday we went to Kruger National park on Safari. It was so amazing, a real once-in-a-lifetime experience. We managed to see so many animals. We spent the night there as well camping in tents which was so awesome. There was so much wildlife! We did a sun rise safari the following morning and saw around 9 young male lions strolling down the road in front of us. It was amazing! I’m so glad we went.

On New Year’s Eve we travelled to Swaziland, where a family were hosting us. I honestly have never met such an amazing and welcoming family before. We spent 6 fantastic days with them in Swaziland. they showed us the sights and we had 2 huge braais with the whole family. The children were so cute and all of the family just made us feel so welcomed and part of their group. I would like to say a huge thank you to them for their generosity and amazing hospitality. Swaziland is a beautiful little country with lots of things to see and do. We visited Swazi Candles, the museums, a cultural vilage, where we saw traditional dancing, and visited some lovely places to just chill out and relax!

Now back at work and feeling really up for starting projects again. I cant wait to meet the new group of young people who Oasis is working with. I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and New Year. Love to you all!

A Special Visitor

Nicola — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 06:22:21 +0000

Wow! I can’t believe it is less than a week til Christmas. While I think most of you will be shopping, wrapping presents, organising families and generally trying to hide from the cold, here we are still ambling about in sandals! I haven’t bought a single present yet, and we still have no idea what we are actually doing for Christmas!
But you think you guys are busy. Stop and take a moment to think what it must be like for poor Father Christmas at this time of year. And on top of organising his elves, recruiting reindeer, wrapping presents and planning his night time trip round the world, he still found time to pay a visit to a group of very special children in Cosmo City!
Holiday club yesterday was a Christmas party which was a total surprise to all the children. We brought them all to the hub, which was all decorated and set out with food ready. While they were eating, who should stroll in my the great Mr. Clause himself. You also have to understand at this point that, being used to the sort of weather that you are currently experiencing in England, poor Father Christmas was struggling in our 30 degree heat! But still there he was, complete with 4 huge bags of presents for the children. They were so delighted, it was amazing!

Other than that, not much has been going on really. Lots more children have discoveredour house recently, and in doing that, have found we offer juice, crisps, biscuits and sometimes even chocolate as well! And of course great entertainment and the best company possible!!

How’s all your Christmas prep going? Hope it is all going well and you are looking forward to Father Christmas’s visit on 24th!

Holiday Club and St. Nicholas!

Nicola — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 08:48:44 +0000

Hi Guys! I’m so sorry I haven’t posted for over a week, it’s been crazy round here!
This week we have been running a holiday club from 12-3 PM each day. We have had between 15 and 40 children aged between 4 and about 12. We have been diong lots of activities, mostly involving glitter and hand painting, as well as playing lots of games and doing sport and bible stories with them. It’s so much fun but tiring!
I also have to tell you about our awesome evening last Friday. One of the guys who volunteers at the soup kitchen invited us round to his house for dinner. His wife is lovely and we got to meet his little girl who is just the cutest child! His wife is originally from Holand and they celebrate St Nicholas day on December 6, which is when we went round. The little girl got so excited when St Nicholas left her a note and presents. But wt he was even more generous, because we all got a chocolate letter. We were so touched that St. Nick remembered us as well. But then the little girl hunted out presents that he had left for us! They are such an amazing and generous family! Thank you so much for such a wonderful evening and for making us feel so welcome and part of your celebrations!

First Post of December!

Nicola — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 11:32:30 +0000

I have a lot to tell you about in this entry. The retreat was so fantastic and so relaxing. We stayed in log cabins in he mountains in the middle of nowhere. On Friday morning we climbed a waterfall which was fun! We all got really badly sunburnt though!

Monday morning should have been the soup kitchen but we didn’t go. Instead we were asked to plan a short drama for the youngest kids at one of the primary schools about HIV, as it was world AIDS day on Monday. So we prepared a cute little puppet show and arrived at the school to find that plans had slightly changed!
We were performing to the older children instead of the youngest ones, and it was a full school assembly! There were around 1000 children there! EEK!! Very scary! We had to sit on the stage as guests of honour during the assembly as well!

Yesterday afternoon we took too of our friends out for ice cream. They are two of the local kids who come to visit us often. It was so much fun. They are such amazing and inspirational children!

This morning I turned he garage where we do skills for life into a craft and creative area of chaos! It was great though. I go all the students a prayer diary and we covered them in wrapping paper and made a big collage about all the things we are thankful for. They were so creative And no one can ever say you are too old for glitter! It just isn’t true!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Nicola — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 06:28:02 +0000

I’d like to welcome you to this beautiful sunny morning here in SA by saying have an awesome Thanksgiving, guys! Eat lots of turkey, sweet potato and pumpkin pie for me, ok?!
I had such an awesome day yesterday. My spirituality session in the morning with the skills for life students was fantastic. We looked at psalm 139 and one of the students realised that God has brought him into the light and he can now share that light with other people! I also got asked where God is and managed to answer pretty well I think! They’re so lovely and truly are so inspirational!
Later on today we are going on a retreat until tomorrow afternoon somewhere in the mountains I think! I’m really looking forward to catching up with a very good friend of mine and hopefully getting to know him better! He’s the best friend anyone could ever wish to have! If you don’t know him, I’d love to introduce him to you. He’s changed my life in the last 18 months or so and I’m so grateful to know him! Confused?

Anyway I love you all loads and hope all is going well for you!

Our Run in with the Government!

Nicola — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:01:34 +0000

I’m so glad today is over! We had to venture into the centre of Johannesburg to visit the home office. We had to extend our tourist visas. So last night we planned to leave at 5.30 this morning, but, maybe due to God feeling we deserved a lie in, the car broke! So by the time some of the lovely Oasisi people had fixed it this morning, it was around 9.30! We had to go armed with letters, bank statements, copies of about 4 pages of our passports, and an individual letter about why we want to stay here! Very scary!
So here we are, arriving at the government building feeling very english. We had been warned it could be up to 5 hours wait, so we turn up with our cool box of sandwiches to find a “No food or drink” sign! Thankfully, we only had to wait about 1.5 hours and our “applications are now under consideration!”

Apart from that, I’m still having lots of fun and enjoying the 32 degrees we have at the moment! Yesterday was Bethan’s birthday and we had everyone round in the evening for a braai, which is a barbecue!

Saturday night was so amazing! We went to a Hillsong concert in Pretoria and it was really fantastic! There were around 10 thousand people and the rain just about held off. The concert was open air, held on a uni campus!

I really can’t believe it’s only a month til christmas! It’s so strange here because it doesn’t feel christmasy at all! Today the shopping maul was playing carols and they sounded so out of place in the sunshine! I don’t know how Father Christmas doesn’t roast over here with all his fur boots and everything! I think we should start a campaign to get him wearing shorts and sandals!

Wow! It’s been a week!

Nicola — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:55:53 +0000

I can’t believe it’s been a week since I last updated you lovely people. The first and most important thing to tell you is that he sun is back! Yes, I feel again like I’m in Africa!
On saturday we went for a picnic in the Botanical Gardens. It was beautiful. There’s a big waterfall and an eagles’ nest, plus lots of wild tortoises! Mondays are becoming my weekly workout at the soup kitchen, as we help carry the huge pots of soup, crates of bread, apples, bananas and oranges! On average we serve around 90 men so it takes a while!
Today has been awesome! This morning I lead my second spirituality session with the skills for life students. It was on trust. We looked at Genisis 12, the call of Abraam, and psalm 91. I had such a lovely morning with the students. They are so amazing and I really enjoy their company. This afternoon we lead team prayer, which we were asked to do last night! We looked at 1 Corrinthians 13 about love and related it to our ow lives and experiences with Oasis.
Hospice tomorrow. Praise God that Mary, the lady who was so ill last week, seemed much better when some of the team visited on Monday. Hopefully she will be ok tomorrow as well.

On My Soap Box… About HIV

Nicola — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 15:41:29 +0000

I’ve been here in South Africa for over 5 weeks now, and, although I have been shocked at some things, it’s only been in the last 2 days that I have been really shocked. HIV is a big problem here, with around 1 in every 4 people having the virus. HIV attacks the body’s white blood cells, which defend your immune system. It slowly turns them from good cells into more copies of itself which means you can’t fight against it. People become so weak they can’t even stand, or eat. When they are this weak, they can’t fight off infections so often they have other illnesses as well, like TB. It is usually these other infections which eventually kill them.
I’ve worked in a hospice for people with varying stages of HIv. Some are lucky enough to go home again. But all are in the hospice because they’re families don’t want to look after them, or they have no where else to go. This morning, one of the ladies I get on well with was so ill. She was shivering and, having been awake for about an hour, went back to bed. The nurses had to help her to stand and carried her back to bed. It was heartbreaking to watch.
Yesterday morning, in the skills for life project, we were talking about HIv. The students are all around 18 to 20 years old and most of them said they wouldn’t go for an HIV test. This shocked me so much. I can totally understand why they wouldn’t go, it would be the scariest thing to do find out, because there’s no cure for HIV. I just realised that if I lived here, they would probably be my friends and if they had HIV I would be so upset!
It also makes me so angry to think that places that should offer mos support to people with HIV are he first to discriminate. Churches, for example, won’t necessarily allow you to continue to be a member of their cngregation if you are infected with the virus. and if the leader of the church, or vicar was o contract HIV, they would probably be asked to leave. How is this our way of showing compassion? Which people did Jesus make a point of loving? Surely we should love these people as Jesus would do, instead of judging them and throwing them out of society!
Thank you, God, for organisations like Oasis, who work with these people! The rest of the world could learn so much from their hope and optimism!

Kids Just Don’t Get Homework!

Nicola — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:55:44 +0000

I’m sure a big cheer would go up in any school in England at the next sentence I will write. Kids here just don’t get any homework! We run a homework club on Monday and Wednesday afternoons and for the last 2 weeks, there have been no kids, or no homework! The term finishes on December 5 but still, don’t the teachers want to keep the students busy with spelling, reading, maths, science, english or history? Well it appears not! So thank you to the lack of homeowrk because it means I can write now!
Skills for life was lots of fun this morning. My spirituality session went well and the students enjoyed it which is great! Really looking forward to the drama club tomorrow as well!
I don’t really have anything else useful to write at the moment, accept to say a huge thank you to Ewan in 6C for his comment! Hope you are ok and enjoying school! I’ll try and write something more interesting soon!

Feeling Very Englandish!

Nicola — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:29:20 +0000

I’m sure you will be pleased to know that this weekend has been very cold and rainy! Yesterday I even had to resort to wearing a jumper! Yes, a propper long sleeved jumper, in Africa? What’s going on!!
Sorry I haven’t posted for a few days. Thursday was the soup kitchen, whic, as usual, was really good fun! In the afternoon we did sports club and I helped the kids doing drama. I managed to get them all to understand and act out how they would feel to be homeless. Felt such a sense of achievement. I’m working closely with one of the skills for life students who is fantastic at running the group.
On Friday morning I fulfilled my life’s ambition and dressed up as a caterpillar in front of a bunch of school children! It was lots of fun though because we were teaching the children that they are wonderful, even if they don’t think so. The caterpillar changes into a beautiful butterfly at the end of the story!
Yesterday we went to church with a lovely english couple who are visiting for 3 weeks. They are taking 7 months to travel round the world! We went to a really nice african craft market with loads of amazing things! I really want some big furry giraffe slippers! Does anyone want anything specific. There’s lots of beautiful african paintingd but not sure on anyone’s colours in their houses or anything!
This morning we started our new timetable so I was back at the soup kitchen. My early start is now on a Thursday instead! We got an invite for free accommodation and family entertainment for New Year in Swaziland, which is where we will be on our holiday so very excited!
It’s amazing how much I can see God working here. There’s so many situations and lives he is touching and making so much better. It’s amazing!
I hope all is good where you are and you are doing lots of amazing things. Let me know about how things are going! I’m thinking of you all and praying for everyone in England [and if you're not in England I'm praying for you too!] Thanks so much for all your prayers for the team here. God is certainly looking after us! Lots of love!

Latest From South Africaland!

Nicola — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 16:04:15 +0000

Hey and welcome to bonfire night! have a sparkler for me!
Wow the last couple of days, have, as ever, been crazily busy! Yesterday was Hattie’s birthday and we had an awesome day with a party in the evening! Pre school was amazing and the kids were so lovely. I decided it would be a good idea to sit kids on my lap then bounce them around. Very good for working out the leg muscles and much more fun than the exercise bike! Arrr, they were all soooo cute though!
My timetable has changed a bit. I’m now doing more work the the sills for life students which I’m really excited about. I am going to help devise and teach an english sylabus starting in January. I am also going to lead some morning prayer sessions, and write and plan a lot more that can be used next year with other groups of students! This is such an amazing answer to prayer, praise God! If anyone has any cool and creative ideas for morning prayers, or favourite and inspirational passages from the bible, could you let me know?

Good Aftenoon, November!

Nicola — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 14:30:17 +0000

Wow! I can’t believe it’s November already. It is strange to think it is, indeed November here. Currently it’s about 32 degrees with beautiful sunshine! I normally associate November with cold wintery rain, cold winterywind, cold wintery sun and generally cold wintery winter! Oh yeah, you guys would know all about that, right?!

Well it’s again been a pretty busy weekend. Last night we hosted 5 extra people at our huose for dinner and the evening and we had company Saturday night as well. We went to church yesterdaymorning which was amazing. It was just so friendly and welcoming there, and a lady got ordained which was so lovely!
This morning I went to the HIV hospice again. We played games with the patients and chatted to them. Met a guy who has been in there for 4 years. It’s hard to see some of the other residents we know getting weaker and more tired. They are just so thin. There is a girl there who is 11 years old but looks about 6. I always feel a bit nervous before we go in just in case one of the patients isn’t there anymore. Was so good this morning to see all of them! It’s quite quiet in the hospice at the moment because a few of the patients went home last week! Praise God!
Hope you all had a good weekend. Check out the prayer corner as there’s lots you can pray for, and I hope you will add your request, or just how God is working in your life as well.

I Am Falling In Love!

Nicola — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:14:21 +0000

Most of you who know me well know that I am indeed, already in love! It’s ok, Michael both knows about, and approves of, the latest reciever[s] of my affections!
They are the local children!

They are just so lovely and sweet. The pre school children are adorable! But the older ones are so genuine and friendly. This afternoon for example, I met up with a 10 year old girl who I’ve seen for the last couple of weeks. She always wants to walk with me and is just so eager to help me. And she is always so excited to see me! I met 2 other little girls this afternoon who were so lovely as well. I persuaded them to play cricket and made sure the boys didn’t stop them!
All the kids at the pre schools want to hold our hands and dance with us, or sit on our laps and have a hug. It’s so sweet!
There are some children who live near us who always run out to say hi to us and walk with us asking how are you? They are all just so adorble!

Just in case you are wondering, this is indeed Nicola writing and not some randomer who has high jacked my site!

I’m Discovering More About Me!

Nicola — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:08:00 +0000

You know people say that this sort of adventure means you find yourself, and discover things you never knew you had inside you? Wel it’s true!

Last Saturday morning, we had some free time. Picture the scene. Sun is shining, music playing. Chris, Hattie and Bethan are outside and Beth is writing an E mail. So what was I doing, I hear you ask…
Was I relaxing in the sun?
Or maybe I was filling in my journal?
Reading my bible?
Sleeping?

In fact, none of the above! On this gloriously sunny morning, I choose to spend my free time…
Cleaning the kitchen!
I kid you not! This is my recreational activity of choice!
I’m getting a strange sense of satisfaction from cleaning and tidying up! It’s not good! What’s wrong with me?

Especially For St. Michael’s School

Nicola — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:03:16 +0000

Hi!
I thought you might all like to know about the children here. There are at least 3 primary schools in this area that we know about, each with lots more students than in England. School starts at 7 AM and finishes by 1.30. After school, all the children stay around playing games and don’t go straight home. On Thursday afternoons we run some after school clubs, like football, cricket, drama and dance for the students. They don’t have many resources and still use blackboards in the classroom s. There are some posters on the classroom walls, but no displays of work. The teachers are still allowed to hit the students on the hand with wooden or metal sticks if they get something wrong or misbehave. Some of the time, there isn’t even a teacher in the class, so the students can’t learn.
There are no lovely green areas for the children to play on, just concrete or dusty spaces.
In SA, you start school at 6 years old. Before that, you go to pre school. You stay in school until 18, when you take your matric exam.

2 in 1 Day?!

Nicola — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:27:17 +0000

Wow! Well guess what? I find myself sat at a working computer for the second time today! How exciing!
Jut thought I’d try and fill you in a bit on what’s happening here in the sun! [Lol, sorry no more sunshine jokes, promise!]
Anyway you’ll be pleased to know that dressing up as a catapillar does mean I get to be abeautiful butterfly at the end of the story!
Yesterday we visited another pre school and the kids were cute. Sadly, though, we didn’t have to resort to old party songs to entertain the children. Sorry guys!
So I’m sat here in a vest top and 3 quarter length trousers thinking it’s hot! Oh yeah, I promised no more sunshine jokes, didn’t I? *sigh!
The very very important question for today is…
What type of chocolate should Beth and I get next time we’re shopping? The chocolate here is nowhere near as good as in England, so make sure you eat lots for us all! Haven’t found any new shoes to replace my tragically injured ones either!
Tomorrow we have the soup kitchen which I’m really looking forward to. The people there are so lovely! Then in the afternoon we have the sports club at a school in Cosmo City! We’re running it on our own tomorrow!
Bethan’s tin of tuna still hasn’t appeared by the way!
Hope you’re all ok and have had a fun snowball fight!
Love you all! xxx

Good Morning!

Nicola — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 06:40:38 +0000

Just a quick hi from sunny South Africa! We had an awesome weekend. Steve Chalke is such an amazing and inspirational speaker! I urge you o travel across the country to hear him speak! We went to a church in Dipsloot, which is a township outside Cosmo City. The church is a tent in the middle of thousands of shacks. The people were so lovely and God was just so obviously present. I’ve never experienced such joy in a place before! It’s amazing what God can do in the places most of us choose to forget about!
Hope you are all enjoying the snow at home, while I’m enjoying 28 degrees at the moment!
Have to go as I have training for a children’s project which starts on Friday. Apparently I might have to dress up in a catipillar costume!

National South African Tuna Day!

Nicola — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 14:21:16 +0000

Short bursts of insanity keep us sane! [Spike Milligan]
Today there is a very important question which I want to put to you all… Does anyone know where Bethan’s opened, or unopened tin of tuna is? Unfortunately she seems to have mislayed it somewhere between the fridge and her sandwich!
Anyway, I cant’ believe it’s Thursday already. Surely Monday was only yesterday? But what with entertainig kids, feeding lots of homeless men this morning, and experiencing the South African pulling power, life’s been pretty busy really! Yes you heard me right. I and Beth were left with 30 3 to 6 year old kids on Tuesday in a very small room. We even had to resort to singing the Hokey Cokey! It was fun though. They all climbed on us saying we love you teacher. And I have to admit, there are all very cute and I’m really looking to going back there!
Today we helped in the soup kitchen. The helpers there are the most lovely and friendly group of people I have ever met.
And the pulling power… Only joking guys!!

A sad event has occured today though. My favouritist and most comfortable sandals have tragically broken *sniff! I guess that just means a good excuse to buy a new pair!
The weekend will be busy, as Steve Chalke, founder of Oasis UK is coming here tomorrow for a visit. We have a barbecue tomorrow evening, party Saturday, for which we are decorating and cooking snacks, Church on Sunday where he will be speaking, as well as one of his assistants staying with us! Heading home to clean now… And hopefully finish a game of South African monopoly!

Life in Nicolaland!

Nicola — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:56:24 +0000

It’s been very busy the last couple of days. Friday morning we spent in the clinic, helping with patients, pregnancy and immunisations! Eek!! Saturday and Sunday were really chilled. We had coffee and the hugest slice of cake ever on Saturday then went to church yesterday and went for an explore. This morning I got up at 5 Aam [my time, which is 4 your time] to travel to the Aids hospice in the centre of Joburg. We chatted to the patients and played cards. They make some beautiful jewellery there which I’m hoping to learn.
We had a massive thunder storm here on Saturday night, it lasted about 4 hours. Seriously, any storm in England, times it by 5 and add a whole lot of lightning and rain! We
‘re just about to have another one now as well!
Joburg is such an amazing city. We already feel so at home and everyone is just so friendly! Again thanks for your support and prayers. Miss you all!
Lots of love!

Another Quick Update!

Nicola — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:40:24 +0000

Hey Guys!
Ok I failed in my mission to post this on Wednesday, it’s Thursday now… So a quick update…
The lion park was amazing on Tuesday. We stroked baby lion cubs and fed a giraffe which was awesome! Started our projects yesterday so busy meeting lots of new and amazing people.
Feeling a bit home sick at the moment… Missing you guys lots! But South Africa is a fantastic country and I’m having the best time… Don’t worry though, I’ll definitely be back in England… For a bit!!
Hope you are all ok and thanks for all your coments and messages. Keep them coming – I love getting them even if I’m useless at replying to you all! Feel free to text me anytime. If you don’t have my number, ask someone else and they might!
Lots of love! xxxx

First South Africa Post!

Nicola — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:15:51 +0000

Wow! I can’t believe it’s over a week since I arrived here. Sorry I haven’t been able to write sooner but I haven’t had access to the internet until now – a bit of a shock for me!

So yes, I’m actually here, in South Africa, enjoying 32 degree heat, fantastic accents and generally lovely people! I’m currently sat in our living room on Monday evening writing this to add to the blog hopefully Wednesday. Our house is so amazing – it’s like a holiday apartment with a big living/dining room and kitchen, 3 bedrooms and a lovely garden. At the moment all four girls are sharing one room [we have en suite!] and we have a spare room!

We’ve spent our first week meeting the Oasis SA team, visiting all the projects we will be involved with and getting to know the area. We live in Cosmo City, thee first development in South Africa where people from all races, as well as rich and poor people, live together in the same community. It’s a pioneering project, which the SA government hope will be the first of many similar developments. We’ve visited the Appartied Museum, Johannesburg Zoo, beautiful Botanical Gardens and tomorrow [Tuesday] we are going to the Lion Park, where you can pet baby lion cubs and feed giraffes! Yay!!

I’m so looking forward to starting the projects. The preschool kids are so amazingly cute! We visited them last Thursday and they all sang to us and kept saying “we love you.” Can’t wait to start doing activities in the HIV hospice. All the older children are so lovely too, very interested to talk to us and teach us their languages! [I love all the languages so much! It’s so interesting!]

Sorry I can’t write more – I hope to soon and maybe I’ll just add loads of posts when I’m online! I just want to say a huge thanks to you guys for texting me and supporting me so much. It’s such an inspiration and encouragement to me over here. Please keep checking the prayer corner and adding your own and praying for what’s there already! I want to see how God is working for all of us despite the distance!

Welcome the Prayer Corner!

Nicola — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:37:30 +0000

It’s finally here! The little sanctuary for prayers and calmness… Maybe! I hope you have time to take a look and add to the prayer corner!

It is also worth mentioning that this morning, I had a very momentous moment! I finally have confirmation that I am not yet officially a grown up! Yay!!

Yes it’s true. I was told that I will grow out of my disorganisation… Which means I can’t be a propper adult yet, right?

Time Is Ticking!

Nicola — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:43:45 +0000

I have officially started packing! Woohoo!! But this brings with it a sinking, sickening feeling which I can’t seem to get rid of. I was awake for hours last night just not able to fall asleep. Then when I did, I had really frantic dreams about forgetting things and running crazily around trying to get everything in time! Not good! I woke up feeling I actually had been doing all that! It’s so frustrating, because I know God doesn’t give fear, so I know this isn’t from him, and is therefore a ploy to pull me away from God. So right now, I’m asking for strength to get over this terror of going and this fear that God will just abandon me. Sounds so stupid… But believe me, it’s a scary thought.

So, does anyone have any ideas as to how to get my excitement and conviction back? I seem to have mislayed it at the moment!

I’m Officially Old!!

Nicola — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:30:44 +0000

I have never really been in the situation where I feel a strong urge to put on my best cracked croaky voice, sigh, and bemoan the fate of students in today’s education system with the infamous words… “Well it wasn’t like that in my day!” However, yesterday morning I find myself in this position of reflecting that “it was all different when I was a little girl!”

I spent the morning in my old primary school [where my mum still works.] I was talking in assembly to 400 4-11 year old children. But before that, I sat at the back of a higher level year 6 [10 year old] maths lesson. Smugly, I think; “Oh this will be sooooo easy!” I mean, I’m officially a graduated grown-up with a degree, right?

However, 5 minutes into the lesson, I was very much wanting a piece of paper just like the students… So I could make a paper aeroplane! 2 minutes after this, I very much wished I had a pair of very thick, swatty-looking specs, just to make me look vaguely inteligent!

It pains me to admit that, one hour on, it was clear that a group of 30 10 year old children had a far superior grasp of the finer points of mathematics than I did! I’m just eternally grateful none of them asked me for help!

So, please someone tell me…

Do you understand division by chunking?

Highest Point!

Nicola — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 17:38:43 +0000

I just wanted to tell you about my amazing weekend. On Thursday I travelled up to Worcester because I had a presentation to do on Friday morning. I took Michael with me to keep me company, and keep me entertained – a role he instantly fulfilled when he succeeded in breaking our room key! [It was in the wrong door!]
The presentation went OK Friday morning then Michael and I climbed up to the highest point in Worcestershire, the Worcester Beacon on the Malvern Hills. It was a beautiful day and the view was amazing!
We travelled back to London Saturday morning to go and see Spamalot [the Monty Python musical] in Leicester Square, then for dinner afterwards at a restaurant where there was anything and everything imaginable on pizza bases!
Sunday morning we went to Hillsongs Church in the Dominion Theatre, Tottenham Court Road. The service was awesome and we met some of the nicest and most generous people I have ever had the pleasure of speaking to!
It is also worth mentioning here that Ihave a new travel companion, who has kindly concented to come to South Africa with me. His name is Mr. Joseph Burg. It’s ok… Michael knows about him. So if you hear me talk about my wonderful friend, Joseph, you don’t have to run to call Michael…
Mr. Joseph Burg is, in fact, a very lovable, furry giraffe!

So Much To Do!

Nicola — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:25:11 +0000

Ok so I leave on 6th October, which is in 12 days time. And it’s just occurring to me exactly how much I have to do before I go! I generally consider myself to be a fairly organised person. Although I do usually leave things a little to the last minute. [Hmmm... Really shouldn't do that!]

So before I jet off, here’s a quidck list of some of the things that keep creeping up on me.

Firstly, packing! I hate packing with a passion. It’s not just about knowing what to pack, it’s knowing in advance so everything can be bought/clean/found so it can be packed!
Then I have to find a way of putting a screne reading software onto a memory stick so I can use any computer at any time.
I also have to write 2 presentations, one for a primary school, and one for a secondary school. And transfer everything from my laptop onto an external hard drive. Not an easy task considering the amount of music I have on there.

So many little things to do and seriously not enough time! AAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!
Any suggestions as to how to get everything done without running crazily round in circles getting nothing useful done?

My First Post!

Nicola — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:55:07 +0000

Hey!
Thanks for visiting my site.
As this is my first ever post on my blog, I’d like to start by saying a huge thank you to my amazing and tallented friend, Darren, who has spent much of his summer break from uni creating this site for me. Thanks, Daz!

I’m Nicola and in 12 days I will be flying to South Africa for nearly 6 months. This site is a way for me to keep in touch with everyone and hopefully tell you about my extraordinary and life changing journey. Please feel free to comment – I can’t wait to log in and find lots of people writing on my site! [Maybe that's sad?]
I have so much to write about already… Look out for photos of my skydive, more about me and what I’ll be doing, links to various interesting things and most of all, my prayer corner.

I hope you enjoy my site and my journey. Look forward to hearing from you!

Welcome!

daz — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 22:07:38 +0000

Hello There!

Welcome along to Nicola On A Mission! I’m sure you’ll join with me in encouraging and praying for Nicola as she embarks on this new chapter in her life. This is Nicola’s space, not mine. So don’t expect to hear from me except when contributing to one of Nicola’s discussions.

As well as this blog, look out for more information about Nicola’s mission as well as a corner for prayer requests, and not just those specifically for Nicola and her friends. When the page appears, all requests are most welcome.

We hope you enjoy your time here. Thank you very much for your support!