Stepping into the unknown!

I think this is the end.

2006-12-10T08:17:00.001-08:00

I have pondered this before but I may end this blog in the next few days. It is now roughly two years old and I am blogging on my youth workers resource site spikyheaded.com on a regular basis again. Trying to keep two is hard work and spikyheaded is more important. Let me know your thoughts.

I think this is the end.

2006-12-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

Songs of Praise!

2006-12-05T08:14:00.000-08:00

I must confess that I do not usually watch Songs of Praise but this Sunday 10th December they are highlighting Prospex the charity I work for in London.
They filmed in the new property we work from and shadowed Matt's detached work. The theme is waiting and looks at how from Prospex point of view youth work does not offer a quick fix.

Spikyheaded blogging.

2006-11-30T10:16:00.000-08:00

I have started to blog again at Spikyheaded.com with relevant youthwork thoughts and reflections as well as what is up and coming on the site so why not pop by and find out.

Sickness Bug.

2006-11-25T06:41:00.000-08:00

Spent most of yesterday throwing up and generally feeling aweful, just made it to London on the tube to have to come home again.
Today I have no energy or umph and too many things that need to be done, falling asleep seems the best option though.

Churchy things.

2006-11-13T06:38:00.000-08:00

I started a initial 3 month piece of work with Morden Park Baptist Church on Sunday. It is 5 hours a week delivering their Sunday teen work and building structures and recomendations. It was great to be back in this kind of work after a break and they are a lovely bunch of young people.

Sunday night I spoke at a youth service at Allington Baptist Church ( my old church) and led some plate smashing. This is a really powerful thing for allow God to help you let go of things and hurts from the past. God was working in a really powerful way with all ages. I have led this before with young people but never with older people. The young people led the rest of the service and did an amazing job. If you want to know more about plate smashing go to spikyheaded and look under visual illustrations.

Detached Training.

2006-11-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

Prospex are offering a 2 day detached training course in January 07 which includes optional practical experience. For an application form go to the Prospex web site, it will be partly led by myself and is great value for money. For the info click here.

Could this be the answer to stopping bike crime.

2006-11-04T11:00:00.000-08:00

Loved this picture from Covent garden. It was a photo waiting to be taken.
I've had two bikes nicked this year so far maybe this is the answer.

Birthday Weekend.

2006-11-04T10:49:00.000-08:00

Celebrating my 40th with some amazing pressies, loads of food and fun. A fantastic curry last night my girls first in a resturant and they loved it.

Today I went to Vertical Chill in Covent Garden to climb the ice wall a great experience and a wicked present. It is something I have wanted a go at for a long time and is quite hard. It is strange getting used to relying on the axes and spikes on your crampons. I will be back for more. We then had lunch and spent the afternoon watching street entertainers.

Nearly 40.

2006-11-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

Well tommorow is the last days of my 30's as Friday I reach the grand old age of 40.
I am not stressed by this fact but it does call for a bit of serious reflection which is never a bad thing.

Samba

2006-11-01T14:11:00.000-08:00

Led my first samba group today at the school where I work. It was opened as a lunch time club for years 5 and 6. It was so popular we are no running a second after school.
It went pretty well but will be better once everyone has got used to the drums a bit.
It is something that is a massive learning curve for me but that makes it all the more exciting.

Passed

2006-10-30T12:10:00.000-08:00

Today the building inspector passed the property for Prospex that I have put my heart and soul into over the last few months. We still have a few bits and pieces to finish of but on the whole it is a great day as it means we can start to use the building.
The project was done using young people we work with giving them a sence of pride and ownership.
A good day.
If you want to see more check out the website here.

Solitude.

2006-10-29T09:46:00.000-08:00

There is a solitude to be found at sea when you can see nothing but its enormity. No land, no other boats or vessels of any sort just this emense powerful thing that you know has the power to destroy your humble ship on which you travel.
I found times on deck alone were a time I could really feel close to God and praise the wonder of creation.
In my life I have found only a few places that compare to the solitude found at sea especially at night, it gave me fresh inspiration from the celtic monks that would take to the seas in there tiny craft and trust God would take them where He wanted them to be, they were men of real courage and adventure.
Solitude is something I need in my life and will try and find times and places to achieve this in everyday life.

Assisted.

2006-10-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

One of the joys of sailing last week was the mix of abilities and that no one was excluded from any activity of ship life. One high-light for me was helping in the assisted climbs so anyone with a disability could go aloft.
This photo catches it nicely.
The experience really enables you to look as everyone as equal and everyone as people rather than anything else.

Danish Perspective.

2006-10-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

Spent an hour today being interviewed by two Danish youth workers about how we work at Prospex and issues we face particularly with detached work. It was part of their required work for their degree and was interesting to think through some issues but also to hear from their experience and perspective.
Their are many similarities and many differences, hopefully it will be a conversation that will continue.

Storm Brewing.

2006-10-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

Some things make you really feel alive and last week sailing through a force 9 gail was one such moment.
When we came onto watch at 4 am all was fairly calm and peaceful but within a short while the rain started and the wind started to get up. By 7.00 am we were battling with the elements hauling up the sails with the ship cork screwing about, and waves crashing over the front of the ship and us.
It was hard work, scary, exhilerating, exhausting and bonding with the rest of the watch. When you thought you had given every ounce of strength you had to dig deep and find some more until the job was done.
After the storm calms you really feel alive and would do it all again should the need arise.
What an experience.

A couple of pics.

2006-10-22T12:01:00.000-07:00

A view from aloft.
Sunset

Exhuasted but inspired.

2006-10-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

I have just got back from a weeks sailing with the Jubilee Trust on The Lord Nelson a tall ship.
The experience was amazing in so many aspects the mix of people age and ability, the fact that you really do crew the ship. You go aloft, set sails etc.
During the voyage we sailed a force 9 which really makes you realize you are alive.
I have much to reflect on and will share once I have recovered a bit more and had a good nights sleep.

Clouds.

2006-10-15T04:40:00.000-07:00

My mother-in-law snapped this on their last holiday and I really liked it.
I have always loved watching the clouds when flying and like this with the plane wing.

The Latest member of our family.

2006-10-15T04:35:00.000-07:00

Forgot to blog this but this is Chips the latest member of our family and a real character.
I have never lived with a dog before but am loving the routine it brings.
It is also a great excuse to go for more walks as a family.
To start with it was like having a baby again with early mornings and the like but already he has got his act together.

streaming.

2006-10-15T01:13:00.000-07:00

I have a streaming cold and loads to do.
I am off on the tall ship Tuesday so need to book train tickets pack and buy a few items such as sea sickness tablets (hopefully I won't need to many).
It is really exciting and will be an adventure. I am also looking forward to spending an intense amount of time with the young person I am taking as shared experiences always make such an impact.
I hope I will get chance to blog whilst away but we will have to wait and see, if not I will share reflections from my journel on return.
I also need to write a profile of myself and work for a local church who are looking into employing me 5 hours a week. I will write more on this on another post.
So much to do when all my eyes want to do is close.

Lev's Blog

2006-10-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

A bit of fun is being had on Lev's Blog around ecclesiatsical references in pop songs. Can you think of any have a think and leave your songs on his comments.
To get started check his blog.

Spikyheaded.

2006-10-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

For several years now I have run a resource site for youthworkers which gives ideas that I have tried and tested for free.
It is always encouraging to hear from people who use it but this weekend I met two one a girl just going into youth work who put two and two together and the second a volunteer youth worker from my teens who I looked up to and was inspired by. She told me she has used the site and liked it which kind of makes it all worth it.
If you wish to check the site out it can be found on www.spikyheaded.com if you have no interest in youth work then I wouldn't bother.

Anniversary Weekend

2006-10-09T14:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a double wammy first my 17th wedding anniversary which we spent celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 1st Maidstone Boys Brigade Company of which I joined when I was 7 and went through the ranks to an officer in my early 20's. It was a fantastic weekend catching up with old friends and telling tales of all we got up too. I owe an aweful lot to the BB which is probably another post and even met Angela through it.
A highlight was the parade service on the Sunday which included the old boys marching which was such a laugh with the officers who drilled us in our squad. My two girls joined in with the 2nd Maidstone girls Brigade as they are both in the GB in Morden, they loved it.
A good weekend was had by all.

Only 3 weeks to go.

2006-10-03T14:11:00.000-07:00

Not long till I go sailing on the Lord Nelson for as week with a young person.
Loads to get sorted but I am getting there and really looking forward to it.

I will be a challenging week but hopefully a unforgettable one.

It's good to be back.

2006-10-01T13:07:00.000-07:00

Well the madness is starting to calm as the property for Prospex I have been working on will be finished by the end of the week. It has been a massive project and challenging using the young people we work with. The last couple of weeks have been really long days trying to get it done.
On Wednesday the fish tank that is part of the office wall gets filled and stocked which is going to look amazing. Then Friday a team are coming in to give it a professional clean so I can't wait for that.
The last major thing is the signage which will happen once permission has been given.
Part of the aim of the project is to give a centre that raises expectations and isn't run down, it is already causing a real buzz with the young people and local community.
I will add some pics soon so you can see what has been happenning.

Today I spoke at Morden Park Baptist Church at their pardade service, it was great to see some friends from Morden Baptist (the other one) who were helping lead worship. I also met some young people who I already know which was good.
I may start some work here for a while if things work out just a few hours a week but it will great to get stuck into a church community again.

Tommorow it is off to the passport office to renew my passport ready for my weeks sailing on a tall ship in about 3 weeks time, I can't wait.

Well I must go but hopefully this marks me being back in the land of blogging.

Been busy.

2006-09-09T03:50:00.000-07:00

Haven't blogged for ages as have been working all hours to finish off the property that will be Prospex home. Two weeks and it should be done I am pleased to say. Then I will try and get back to some regular blogging.

Thin Place

2006-08-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from my hols and had the chance to walk Glastonbury Tor with my two daughters.
I love the fact that it has Celtic roots and for me it is a thin place that I can't resist visiting when down that way.

Ft Magazine

2006-07-29T06:02:00.000-07:00

The article in th Ft magazine is great and worth a read you can read it on line here although you don't get the pictures that way. Hopefully it will lead to other things.

The Financial Times

2006-07-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

This coming Saturday sees a large article in the Financial Times giving the story of a young person I now work with and the relationship Prospex and Matt in particular has played in his life. It is by all accounts very powerful and moving so get out your hankies. Go on make sure you buy a copy.

Garden

2006-07-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Had chance to sit and sketch the other day in the garden this is the result! Still room for improvement but my first with charcoal pencils, they are far cleaner than normal charcoal but I like the messy nature of charcoal sticks more.
I may take these on holiday as I find it so relaxing.

One week to go.

2006-07-23T13:55:00.000-07:00

One week and a fortnights holiday. I can't wait.

The Crime of Youth.

2006-07-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

Three young lads, teenagers stand leaning against a wall of this busy London street. They are calm, talking, laughing and enjoying watching the world go by, especially the girls, it's a hot sunny day!
They are all in uniform although they would deny it, blue jeans, hoodies pulled over their heads and branded trainers on their feet. They have been here for about twenty minutes because they are in no hurry and it is a good place to be, until now that is.
Now is when a police car screaches up and two PC's jump out and approach the lads, start giving them grief, egging them on blantantly wanting a response so they can give them a fine or take them down the nick. The uniformed officers make them empty their pockets, frisk them down and make one lad take off his shoes and socks right there on the pavement, in full daylight of the passers by. It's humiliating and degrading especially as they were doing no wrong. After a good ten minutes the officers of the law return to their car grinning obviously amused by what they have just done and drive away. The lads look shaken and unsure what to do now.
This whole incident leaves a strange feeling in my stomach a bitter taste in my mouth and a question that needs an answer! When did being young become a crime?

Music

2006-07-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

Following the guitar workshop at school, next year (September) I am going to be involved in singing assemblies as well as a lunchtime samba workshop (drumming) and some other musical delights. Should be fun.

Hint of Curry.

2006-07-05T14:03:00.000-07:00

I am a self-confessed curry-holic so when we went out the other night for a staff meal at wagamummas in Islington there really was no choice except to have the desert with a hint of curry flavour. I thought it was inspired and just right. Everyone else thought it was wierd and disgusting! Hmmm they need to sort our their taste buds.

Confirmation

2006-07-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

Last night saw the confirmation service of the 21 young people we have been working with since September last year. Congratulations to you all, wish I could say the same to the England team, what was Rooney thinking!
The service took place in Blessed Sacrement Catholic Church Islington and was quite moving. The Bishop was great and spoke to each candidate personally and Father Jim was fantastic as always. I like the importance of this style of service with the robes and candles, liturgy etc. The music was from a digi organ where you just push play and sounded like a bad organist, amazing how they can recrteate that sound! The church had been emergency accomodation during the week due to the fire at Kings Cross but it brought a real sence of community.
I am looking forward to taking the group away later in the year to see how they are moving on with God and to the next group.
There is talk in starting a youth congregation / alternative type service which is very exciting, more as things develop on that one.
Today is being spent in the garden writing reports for school and BBqing and drinking the odd beer. It is so hot that my eyes are streaming as the evening approaches, oh well you can't have it all!

Guitar Workshop.

2006-06-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

Led a guitar demonstration at the school I work at today. I started with classical including a duo with my oldest daughter, this was followed by different acoustic styles and ending with my electric. I used a backing Cd and pulled off my best solo I have ever played involving blues licks, tapping, wammy techniques, e-bow and slide. I also demonstrtaed eukelle guitar and eukelle mandolin. It went down really well and I am now exploring other workshops; it is a great way to start the day.

Hello Cormac

2006-06-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

Bumped into one of my young people from Morden the other day who I haven't seen for ages.
So hello to Cormac who revealed reading the blog, I'll keep you to the coffee soon. It was good to see you.

Church Visit

2006-06-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

Arranged and took two year 2 classes to visit Morden Baptist Church last week. The children loved it especially the Youth Room and the Baptistry. It was kind of strange giving a tour around having not worked there for a year. Dave the youth worker now talked about baptism and what it means which was great. Unfortunatley we were unable to fill it because of the hose pipe ban.
We did show a video of a baptism I was involved in which worked well.
Thanks to all at MBC

District Parade

2006-06-11T13:18:00.000-07:00

Led the girls brigade district parade service at Merton Park Baptist Chuch today.
It was great to see the band play as it brought back alot of memories from my BB days, my girls loved marching behind them to.
It was also great to have some of the No Limits band leading worship (some of my old youth group) thanks Ed, Jake and Sam you are stars and it was great.
The service was fun and a highlight was getting the new Mayor of Merton playing an icebreaker at the start which involved blowing raspberrys.
The rest of the day has been relaxing apart from a thumping head due to hay fever.

Swallows.

2006-06-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

My favourite way to unwind at the moment as every year is to watch the swallows chase about the sky catching insects as the sun starts to drop.
There is so much that they represent for me but complete freedom is foremost as they demonstrate that for them the sky is their playground.
It beats Big Brother!

Buddist Temple

2006-06-05T15:17:00.000-07:00

Had the week off with my family loads of days out etc. On our travels we stumbled across this temple in Wimbledon. Was an amazing place, the art inside is breath taking but sadly no photos allowed. It is amazing what is on your doorsteps that you don't realize is there.

The Strong arm of the Law.

2006-05-20T07:42:00.000-07:00

This is a piece I wrote last night from my reflection after hearing another story of unreasonable force used on a young person. I know there are always two sides to every story but this is one I hear and see evidence of all too often in my current work. This piece about provoking thought and challenging attitudes and hopefully spuring you to think about the issues.

The Strong arm of the law.
In the back of a van they beat him, grown men enforcing the law.
On a teenager who has had to fend for himself since he was eight and probably before.
They beat him to teach him a lesson that violence doesn't pay.
They beat him so he would respect them, so through fear he might not do it again!
They beat him in a van parked out the way of prying eyes and passers by, they don't want to get caught.
They beat him because they can, they are the law so can do what they like or so they think and so they say.
They beat him and his resentment grows.
The beat him and his anger brews.
They beat him and revenge he plans, all respect is lost and won't be found. They are no different than his Dad!
They beat him and they will again or someone else to show their hate for the scum that scourges their idealistic green and pleasant land.
But in doing so they are the same, no different, no far, far worse.
For they are the ones who should know better, who we should trust, look up to and be inspired.
But I'm not sure that we can, whilst this goes on in the back of a van away from prying eyes.

Police Presence.

2006-05-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight was one of those nights on detatched with an over the top Police presence. One park from 7pm (daylight hours this ime of year) had two park patrol units one with dogs on board, not surprizingly the park was deserted. Another much smaller park had a whole van load and a car and every corner we turned were police cars and police force stopping young people congregating anywhere. This meant lots of discussions with us as they feel safe around us but it raises loads of questions for me.
Why is it so wrong for young people to congregate together in a park, not all are up to anti-social behaviour.
Where are they supossed to go to spend time with their friends?
How do the police think this solves the problems, all it does is force them somewhere else or onto another patch, (which might be all they are really interested in).
If young people are causing realproblems then that is different but if they are simply being young people why are we targeting just them?
More on another post I am sure.

Baptisms

2006-05-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

Went to Morden Sunday night to see the Baptism of some young people especially two who were part of No Limits. It was very emotional as I was close to them as a worker but also great to see them going from strength to strength. The testimonies were the best as young people are always so honest which is always powerful and refreshing.
Well done Jake and Caz I am so proud of you guys.
It was lovely to catch up with others from the group to.

Prep break

2006-04-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

I am leading a parade service for Merton Baptist Church tomorrow and am just putting the final bits together but needed a break. I wll be using a Dicecto as part of it, which is a wrist chopping illusion that has always gone down well and great for drawing out illustrations. The focus of my talk is trusting God and using Abraham and Issac the sacrifice story as the starting point.
Should be fun as it has been a while since I led a service.

Not again

2006-04-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

Got a phone call from Matt my boss at Prospex to tell me we have just had our laptops, digital camera and peti cash stolen last night. We have only just replaced them from when it happened a few months ago. It is incredibly frustrating.

Thanks!

2006-04-27T10:42:00.000-07:00

I was walking home late the opther night and bumped into two young people I had worked with years ago. They stopped me and we chatted about what they were doing etc and at the end they said thanks mate it was you that kept us from getting seriously into crime. The clubs you ran were so good, and we went our separate ways.
I tell this not to blow my own trumpet but because sometimes in youth work you often don't see the effects of what you do. People at the time these lads were in the clubs sometimes questioned if they were benefitting anyone, yet these lads tell you that it is well worth it. Both are now in good jobs and doing alright for themselves. So if you are wondering if what you are doing is worth it keep on going.

Confirmation Weekend

2006-04-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

Spent last weekend on a residential for a confirmation course for a local Catholic Church I help run as part of Prospex.
The weekend was great fun with all the usual activities but the highlight was the Saturday session we ran on Risk. I talked about how it is risky to stand up for what you believe etc , showed the clip from the Matrix where they load the Jump programme then gave a chance to resond by lighting a candle. This was the powerful bit and people cried and just chilled in God's presence and we just gave God space to work.

One lad who found it really powerful and who had sobbed for a long time explained what had happened by these words:
"You know when you have eaten way too much and you need a really big poo and you go to the loo and get rid of it all, you feel great and empty. I feel like that except it is all the bad things I have ever done that have gone they are no more".
He went on to say he has done some bad stuff in the past but this is where he needs to turn it around.

I love theology that has no churchyness about it and that is a fantastic description of experiencing forgiveness.

Another young person said "it was like I was being hugged by God"!

It was very moving and a memorable evening I hope to share how someone describes getting filled by the Holy Spirit but need to ask them first.

What a good weekend

More in charcoal.

2006-04-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

This came from some personal reflection today. It may do nothing for anyone else but it was useful for me.

Hidden Riches

2006-04-08T12:03:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading the book Hidden Riches (The Eucharist in the Carmelite Tradition). I picked it up at a visit to Alyesford Priory the other week a favourite sanctuary of mine.
It is great reading about views of eucharist from such people as St Therese of Lisieux, Elizabeth of the Trinity and others. It is deeply moving and creating alot of thought. More when finished but it at the moment is living up to its title.

Charcoal thoughts.

2006-04-08T00:42:00.000-07:00

I have been experimenting with charcoal and am finding it really expressive. I was pleased with this it sums up many of the young people I work with.

At Last.

2006-03-28T02:32:00.000-08:00

I have finally managed to get hold of a partial capo for my guitar which is great. I misses the low E string and clamps the rest although you can position it to do others as well fairly quickly.
I am currently enjoying playing using two capos, a full one then the partial it opens up a whole new feel and sound.

School Strike.

2006-03-28T02:27:00.000-08:00

Yep I am at home with my kids when I should be at work because the schools are striking today, which means I have to go into work this evening to make up my hours which is a real pain.
Feeling a bit rough today which may be the food I ate at my staff meeting last night.

Not Again

2006-03-28T02:24:00.000-08:00

Came home on Friday to find that someone had stolen my bike again, the second time in under 6 months, it's a real pain to say the least. Surely nothing else can happen.

Hurting my pocket!

2006-03-19T05:52:00.000-08:00

Ouch first our car went in for MOT and needed stuff done to the clutch and break disks all leading to a heafty bill , then we check our bank book to discover someone has stolen a large amount of money from our bank account. This is not helpful when you don't have much money in there in the first place. It should be sorted after much paper work in the police station and cancelled cards and all that joyus stuff, but it takes time. So I have had better weeks.
On top of that there has been some tough issues to deal with at work but I won't go into them.
Today I am playing catch up on some carpentry jobs, so here's looking forward to a better week.
Angela is working and my girls are out for the day so I have a quiet place to work.
Anyway back to the grind from my mini break.

Inspirational.

2006-03-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

I have just been catching up on filing articles from papers etc that have caught my eye, a habit I have done for years a a great source for talks etc. And I love this one from the Telegraph 06.
Mark Inglis who nearly died at the top of New Zealands highest mountain in 1982. he was trapped for 14 days in a callapsed ice cave and after being rescues had both his legs amputated below the knee due to frostbite. Sinc then he has obtained a degree in human biochemistry, become a award winning wine maker and won a silver medal in the 2000 Sydney Para olympics.
He is now about to attempt to conquer Everest and his outlook on life is summed up by the quote "At least I won't get frostbiten toes"!

That is an amazing perspective on life.

A Punch in the face!

2006-03-14T08:39:00.000-08:00

There is a saying that sugests that every experience can be a chance to learn and give even negative things can give positive feedback. Well I have had to put the theory to the test. last week a young person punched me in the face, he was angry and wound up and I happened to be in the way. Apart from having a sore nose I have been reflecting on this and first I am pleased that I didn't react back I just moved out the way and let a college take over. It has highlighted the kind of young people I am working with who need people like Prospex who at times are the only positive influence in their life. It has strangely made me more passionate about the work we are doing there. It has also enabled another worker to do some dedicated one to one work and start to make a real difference now that things have settled down.
In short have I learnt from the experience? Yes and mostly about myself, maybe more about that later.

Time to close.

2006-03-12T07:48:00.000-08:00

I think it is time to end this blog, it has served me well and been useful at this time but I need a change. I will probably start a fresh blog but may wait a while first, or I may change my mind and stay with this one after all. I will give it a couple of days to decide but if you can't find it soon that is why.

Mac Church.

2006-03-05T03:50:00.000-08:00

I know it is not the first time the phrase has been used but it is something that I am struggling with personally at the moment. Having worked in a church for 10 years I didn't get much chance to go to other churches but now I am trying to find a church to be a part of again I am faced with the dielema that churches seem to be the same. What I mean by this is the worship style and the structures they follow, especially the whole purpose driven stuff (of which I have been a part of in the past). I understand that churches that are small or in decline or passionately want to grow for all the right reasons will look to succesful patterns that work an wantto emulate them, this however then removes an aweful lot of creativity and individuality from a church. A classic case of this is to go somewhere where they are following a lent material, where there is little room to alter from the given text, I could go to the adifferent church each week and effectively not notice the difference! Is this a good thing or not? Some will frown for my even mentioning it but I genuinely struggle with it. Part of the problem for me is I thrive on creativity and so finding something that takes creativity away is hard for me. My other struggle is that a minister should be preaching to the context of their local community and I am not sure how you can do that following someone elses book especially if it is from another country. That said I believe God's word can speak for itself so can myself argue both ways. Does anyone else wrestle with this? I would love to hear peoples thoughts. I will write some more posts around this subject soon.

You will go to the Ball.

2006-02-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

Next month Prospex is holding a charity ball at the Savoy in London which is very exciting and will include an auction and dance, great food and much more.
I an looking forward to Angela donning her ball gown and me in DJ's (it doesn't happen often) but more than that is I have book to stay over the night in the Savoy...(Well you have to really don't you)!

Family Contract

2006-02-15T12:37:00.000-08:00

Several people have asked me about the family contract we started at the beginning of the year and how we initiated it etc, having just finished a family film night which is part of the contract I thought it time I responded.
The idea of the contartct came out of reading I had been doing on NLP coaching which I had experienced at a restraint course last year.
On New Years Day we sat down as a family and talked about our highlights and low lights of 05 and then I talked about making 06 better.
We then brainstormed or thought showered if you are politically correct things that would make living as a family better and more enjoyable, sharing responsibilities and what we want to achieve and from that made a list.
The list was then broken down to daily things, wekkly things, monthly things and over the year.
The idea is not to have so many that it becomes a bind or you resent it but that enough that will make a difference.
This is our list please remember I have two daughters who are 8 and 6:

Daily:
Make beds and put clothes away or in the washing basket.
Empty all reciepts fromDaddys wallet every night.

Weekly:
All spend an hour a week tidying the house together
Do more cooking together
Read more with my youngest daughter and for her to read more with us.
Read to my older daughter at least once a week.
Have a nice meal together once a week.
All do exercise at least once a week.

Monthly:
Have a games night once a month.
Have a film night once a month.

Over the year:
Oldest to get her 800m swimming badge.
Youngest to get her 400m swimming badge.
Spend a week in Somerset with a good friend who moved.
Do something new 4 times over the year.
Decorate throughout the house.
Me to lose more weight.
Clear out the loft.

These few thoughts have made such a difference this year already as it means we think about each other and it stops stresses that built.
It challenges us to achieve things and spend quality time together.
It has led to each of us individually having other things that we aim to do.

Because of our girls age we sit and review the list and see how we are doing.

I think the starting point is honesty about what winds us up and makes us happy, from there you can build your list.
We had far more but narrowed it down to this list.
We will see how it goes but so far I am so impressed.
Shout if you want to know more.

Comfirmation and Boxing.

2006-02-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

Two extremes last night first was the next installment of a confirmation class Prospex are leading for a local Catholic church where we talked about the practical side of the gospel and putting your money where your mouth is so to speak. This included using a wrist chopping illusion which is always fun.
Then it was to ameteur Boxing where Prospex had been invited as guests of honour on the VIP stage. I must confess to being a fan of boxing and there where loads of parents and young people we work with there. It is another world though with lots of the older members dressed like they were in the cast of the Godfather films!
Got home extremely late so am a little tired today to say the least.

Easter People 06

2006-02-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

Had a team meeting on Saturday for Easter People, back working with the 11 - 14s in Torquay this year so maybe I will see you there.
It is all around the cross this year and I am looking forward to working with the team and getting stuck into a great theme.

Have been going back to MBC this year and plan to see how that goes, will also be leading some parade services for Merton Park Baptist Church where my girls attend the GB which I am looking forward to.

School and Prospex are busy but the carpentry has gone quiet but have some ideas to develop but life is good.

It died.

2006-02-08T08:09:00.000-08:00

Well the laptop finally died with a cracked screen which we don't know how it happened there, but I am pleased to say we now have a new PC which is fast and lovely and has built in TV which means I can tune into music channels whilst I work which is great.

I need now to get back into the land of blogging as I have missed it loads.

Prospex

2006-01-20T04:47:00.000-08:00

I hope to add an extra day to Prospex this year fairly soon, I am loving the work and more time is needed. We were b.ack to the face to face stuff this week after our refocus and planning time, it was great to be back out on detatched.

Catching up.

2006-01-20T04:41:00.000-08:00

Well it has been a while again partly due to countless problems with my PC but this seems to have been sorted now.
Last weekend we went to West Malling for a barn dance for my cousins who are on a visit from Canada where they emigrated a few years ago. It was great to catch up and also see friends we grew up with some who we haven't seen for twenty years. The dancing was a laugh (not a strong point of mine) but our girls loved it.
It was also for my other cousin who is off to Africa in the summer to help with Bible translation.
Have been back to Morden the last two Sundays and it has been OK the break was needed. I am pleased to hear that they are inviting a guy back for my old post, it will be good for the young people.

2006

2006-01-02T02:38:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year

Well 2005 was quite a year for us as you will know if you have read this blog, looking forward to 2006 and all its challenges.

We started the New Year by writing a family contract it includes daily things we need to do, weekly things, things to enjoy as a family such as film nights and things we want to achieve in 2006. The girls have really taken to it and it has challenges for all of us but hopefully will give us a real focus as a family this year. We will see.

At the start of the year I am endevouring to read through the Bible again and am also currently reading A million little pieces by James Frey a powerful true story about an addict it is extremely frank and honest but may not be to everyones taste!

I am also emarking on reading the Koran which is proving interesting.

Angela is back to work today and me tomorrow but have had a fantastic break.

Exercise!

2005-12-29T08:54:00.000-08:00

Having been eating and visiting people over the last few das how good it feels to get some exercise and have a swim as a family.
Hope you all had a good Christmas.

Prospex

2005-12-20T12:11:00.000-08:00

As some of you know I work part time for a charity called Prospex in north London (Islington) working wth young people who are on the edge. We are currently looking for people who would be willing to support us finacially on a regular basis so that the work can continue. Any regular income that is not tied to a particular piece of work is so valuable and as little as £5 a month can make a huge difference. Is that you? This is not something I usually do but as a lot of people I know read this blog I thought I would mention it. If your interested get in touch and I will send you a form and some info or you can do it via the web site. I am really passionate about the work at Prospex and would hate it not to continue because of money.
Someone said to me about young people who are using drugs and excluded from school, well they only have themselves to blame and when they do I feel my blood starting to rise and say have you ever tried going home as a young person to your mum who is a heroin addict and a boyfriend who is a alcoholic. Or the family that is afraid to open the door in case its the baliffs come to evict them. What about the lad who has been bullied at school that his family won't send him back any more and at 13 can't read or tell the time. Or the 10 year old that would rather be out the house at 11pm than go home to what he or she knows goes on there. These are the kind of issues we face on a daily basis and this is not fictional but real lives and there are so many like this and worse.
So sorry if you are offended by this blog but this is where I am called to be and whom I am to work with and you could make a massive difference.
Beef

Shameless Plug.

2005-12-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine Susan Hill has produced a book of poetry, art with study guide. It is stunning. Susans art is extremly powerful as are her poems and this book has so many uses. It would make someone a great gift so why not check out her site Words that rock your soul where you can buy the book. You can also see some of her work at the web site mini gallery.
I have used Susans work for part of a stations of the cross experience and as part of various worship insulations.....end of plug.

The Father Christmas Lie!

2005-12-17T09:12:00.000-08:00

Someone basically said that I lie to my children by letting them believe in Father Christmas and the tooth fairy, the argument goes that when they discover that these two are not real they will make the same assumption about God. I disagree as it is part of the magic (probably a bad choice of word) of being a child. As for stopping believing in God I don't think so as hey can experience God and ave a relationship with God but not with Santa. So Christmas Eve we will be going to a Christingle service, soup and rolls for tea followed by a walk to see the lights and then finish the Christmas story (we read a bit each night) and before bed we will leave a glass of sherry and a mince pie for Santa, a carrot for his reindeer and will love watching my childrens faces in the morning when they find their stockings full. The person who made this coment doesn't have children yet so it will be interesting to see if their views change when or if they do, I didn't dare mention that we went to see Harry Potter.

Phew.

2005-12-16T14:02:00.000-08:00

Another busy week but good, a real mix of youth work, school and carpentry. Last night was the Prospex Christmas party which ended very late and then I have the school one on Saturday night. Had some interesting talks about what we teach children about Father Christmas as Christians but I will write a seperate blog on that.

A Reflection

2005-12-12T07:44:00.000-08:00

I have been catching up on blogs I like to read today and really liked this reflection from Ben Bell on advent check it out here.

At Home

2005-12-12T07:36:00.000-08:00

At home today because my eldest daughter is not well with an eye infection. Had a call from Prospex where I work part time to discover someone broke in to the office over the weekend and stole our 2 laptops and our digital camera which considering we are a charity is pretty low.

A busy weekend.

2005-12-12T07:31:00.000-08:00

Had loads to do including putting a floor down on Sunday (shock horror) it seems everyone wants everything done by Christmas when it comes to carpentry and then it will go quiet for the whole of January no doubt. It's part of the comecial side of Christmas and I get comments like I can't have the family over unless you can do this. It seems a shame that we can't look past such things and just enjpy each others company but on the other had it helps to pay my mortgage so I shouldn't complain.

Back at last.

2005-12-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

At long last and a great deal of hassel I am back online at home and now with broadband and am very happy. It has been a while since I bloggedanything or added to my site spikyheaded.com but that is about to change. I will endevour to add anything of worth to the blog soon.
Firstly for those that know me I now don a new hair cut still mainly bald but with a kind of crooked mohawk still spiky just different. I will add a pic soon. Bye for now.

Finally getting it sorted

2005-12-02T11:54:00.000-08:00

By all accounts I should have internet acess at home on the 9th of December.
Changing to broadband has been a nightmare and I hope it will be worth it.
Then I will blog again frequently. I can't wait.

hopefully soon

2005-11-18T09:35:00.000-08:00

What a mare! Hopefully I will have access at home soon. It is getting annoying now.

Still no access!

2005-10-31T05:16:00.000-08:00

The saga goes on and trying to change to broadband has become a pain in the backside. I am getting very frustrated using other PC when the chance allows. Hopefully soon.

No access

2005-10-26T04:47:00.000-07:00

No post due to having no internet access at home hopely that won't be the case for to much longer.

Lost my flow.

2005-10-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

I have got out of the blogging flow due to the busyness of life, the times I have sat and started it just hasn't happened but hopefully that will change here at least for a while.
I have just returned from a weekend in the New Forest with a group of lads on the Prospex personal development course which was pretty intense to say the least. The weather was great which was a real bonus, the hardest thing was trying to motivate a group of lads who think everything is "dead man." The best was a late hike through the forest (pitch black) when suddenly these hard lads were not so hard, at one point I had four of them clinging onto my arm as we walked. Owls screeching did not do their nerves any good.
The school work has also been challenging did communion with a class as the subject was symbolism in Christianity so demonstrated different ways different denominations take communion which was fantastic.
Still bikeless as it looks like the insurance company won't pay up, and to help the Northern line has been shut for the week. Bless the tube system.

Who's nicked my bike?

2005-09-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

Some toe-rag has stolen mine and Angela's bikes that were locked to a post in our garden so I have had to spend the day making the back gate more secure and the shed which cost more money I didn't want to spend. To top it all our insurance company says they may not pay as they were not in a shed! They were locked but this seems to make little difference despite the fact if they were stolen from a lamp post when out they would. Considering a new insurer.
Not a great day as I had other plans.

Restaint training.

2005-09-24T07:05:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from a weeks training course run by N.F.P.S. on restraint the most intense course I have ever attended but equally the most enjoyable and challenging.
The course taught how to use non-harmful methods of control, pain compliance techniques, distraction methods and breakaway techniques all with the firm backing of the law. Along with this we were assesed on whether or not we were competent in instructing it as well.
I am pleased to say I came out with my Level 1 instructor accreditation which means I can teach it to others.

You may wonder why this in youth work, well it is simple that I will know what to do should a young perosn be about to cause harm to themselves, others or property, in the context of what the law states I can do. It is not about ego. For me the likelyhood off using these methods is not high yet it gives confidence should the need arise but I know many youth workers that really do need this stuff so can train them.

The course also offered much more about how we learn and behaviour which was really fasinating and useful, check out the N.F.P.S. web site and read about the NLP stuff that Mark Dawes uses much of this I believe would be helful in whatever area of youth work you find yourself in.

2005-09-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

Glastonbury Tor
I took some time out to climb the Tor whilstat New Wine in the summer and really met with God I wrote this at the top.

There are sacred places outside of walls,
where the one true God stands and calls.
Make the Pilgrimage, start to climb
and as you do focus your mind on higher loftier things.
Listen to the rythm of your heart and let its beat tune into mine,
let your thoughts and soul entwine, discover the riches of the divine.
And on the summit don't be surprised,
if amongst the joy you start to cry.
For tears will help to clense your soul,
as you hear his voice say welcome home.

The Friars

2005-09-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

Stations of the cross at the Friars at Aylesford.
On Monday I had some work in Maidstone Kent and managed to grab an hour before I came home to visit Aylesford Priory a place that has been special since my teens but that I haven't visited for years. It was great to walk round the Rosary garden that holds the stages of the cross as the one above. It is a tranquil place and somewhere you can really sense God's presence. Well worth a visit if you are in Kent. I managed to take some great photos to use in my RE lessons as well.

Back in the land of blogging!

2005-09-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

It has been a mad summer two weeks holiday with the family in Summerset and Cornwall in glorious sunshine which was great with the bonus of good sunshine.
Sinse then my feet haven't touched the ground with a large building job work a Prospex including a weekend in the New Forest and starting my work in school last Wednesday teaching PSHE and RE. So now I hope to be blogging frequently as well as adding thoughts from the last month or so.

The Times Today.

2005-07-29T01:39:00.000-07:00

An article today by Dr Tanya Byron on violent youth mentions Prospex in a very positive light, you can read the article here.

Sometimes.

2005-07-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Was out doing detached last night and it was one of those strange nights, everyone was stroppy and agressive as if something was brewing. We went into a park we work in and it was not a good place to be and lads we know well were quite off, so wejust walked on. It is one of those strange things but sometimes your instincts tell you not to hang around.

Panorama

2005-07-27T02:01:00.000-07:00

The Panorama programme featuring bits from Prospex is on this Sunday night on BBC1 and is called Guns, knives and children. For a full description of the programme check out the Panorama site here. I won't get to see it until after my holidays but am looking forward to how we come across.

2005-07-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

Me on the almost complete deck with my new toy!

A substantial deck.

2005-07-25T08:31:00.000-07:00

Milling the oak.
Had an amazing weekend helping a friend, help a friend who runs a farm in Cranliegh. The mission was to build a deck. The experience was the oak came from woods in the farm and was milled on site we used four and a half tonnes of it. I learnt loads from Mark like the easy way to dig a hole, sounds simple but I always struggled before. I spent loads of time using a chain saw which was a first and very enjoyable.
We managed to fit in a great roast dinner and a curry on Saturday night and before we came home we went off roading in the back of a Land Rover through his woodland which was scary to say the least but an amazing adrenaline rush.
It is a real pleasure as a carpenter to be involved in the timber production through to completion. The likely hood of me ever buildinga deck like that again is extremly slim but I may just have to buy myself a chain saw!!!

Looking Forward

2005-07-17T12:28:00.000-07:00

In two weeks I have a fortnight holiday 1st week at new wine with Morden Baptist which I am looking forward to especially spending some time with my old youth group then onto a week in Cornwal with the family which wil be fantastic.

Harry Potter.

2005-07-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

I have the new book arrived in the post on Saturday and plan to start it Wednesday when I have finished my current book. Not sure I will last that long!

Busy.

2005-07-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

Haven' t blogged for a while as life and work has been busy but is calming a little.
had some great news from a lad we have been working with in that he has arranged to go back to school and take his GCSE's which is fantastic as he has been out the system for ages, he came on the last personal development course and then got inspired when we took him to a jobs fair and he saw what he could earn with a few Gcse's. I am very made up about this.

Bomb blasts in London.

2005-07-07T04:58:00.000-07:00

Should have been in town today but was turffed off the tube with no real explanation, get home to discover the news of the tragic terroist attacks. I can't seem to focus on much at the moment but will endevour to do so.

Moving on Up.

2005-07-02T04:06:00.000-07:00

I am involved in a series of lessons in a Primary school to help the transition from Primary to secondary school and it was great fun, 3 more to go. The reason for these is because in inner London there is a high drop out of kids who drop out of school quite quickly after moving to secondary school. The aim of these lessons is to help prepare them for the culture shock that so many find incredibly difficult.

Panorama

2005-07-02T04:03:00.000-07:00

The documentary now looks set for the 27th July but if that changes I will let you know, the second part of the filming went very well and I can't wait to see what is finally put on screen.

Carpentry

2005-07-02T04:01:00.000-07:00

Had a job in Kent this week the first of two phases but all in hardwood which is always a pleasure to work in, then this is quite busy for the next few weeks which is good news.
I have my first playhouse to design and build which I am very excited about.

Drugs Ed.

2005-07-02T03:55:00.000-07:00

Spent an evening doing detached with a seasonsed drugs educator detached worker and it was a real experience. The focus is not about saying don't do it as that has little or no effect but about how to do it safely and teaching what effects it has on you and what it is really doing. I guess many in church work would struggle with this approach but it is effective in getting young people to think about what they are doing and often leads to them reducing their useage.
She is going to come into Prospex and train all our staff in it as well.