First Month Reflection

Can it really be one month? I have added so much mileage namely through getting lost on more than one occassion. There are three Nook Streets for example and a plethora of one way streets to navigate through.

Still I have always managed to find the final destinations, eventually, and all have been very polite, positive and personable (alot of p's there).

There have been a couple of times when I have of course questioned whether this was the right role for me. The first was on the day of my welcome party when browsing through Marks & Spencers food hall I was approached by an elderly gentleman,

"excuse me love" he said, "do you know if you have any bread and butter pudding?" Well obviously I knew that I did not have any bread and butter pudding, but using my sensitive intution and skills learned on the "developing pastoral care" module I reflected back - "do I have any bread and butter pudding?" "Yes love, there are none on the shelf". Finally realising the man was not actually concerned about my well-being or culinary tastes, I replied sensitively "I'm sorry I don't know, I don't actually work here." "oh sorry love, you should work here you look so authoritative." Of course I reflected on how someone could look authoritative when scanning yoghurts for the best before date. I guess I will never know.

The second offer of a new role was quite easy to interpret and reason. I have actually been to the local carvery around 14 times since moving in - just over 5 weeks. On my last visit I was greeted by the manager asking if I wanted a job.... I only reflected on this one for a while.... 'do they get to keep the tips' ...

Highlights of the first month

The welcome party/ welcome service (see facebook for more pictures)/harvest services and supper/meeting people/ Lat Pack/ bacon butties .......

So what have I learned ...

1. Coffee keeps me going

2. Bold Street folk make the best hot pot I have ever tasted

3. Latchford folk can't alf sing well

4. People don't mind parking in the ministers and deacons spot - even though they are not the
minister or deacon.

5. Coffee still keeps me going

6. The folks are genuine, caring and exceptionally supportive.

7. Clancey's bacon butties are scrummy

8. This is the best place to be at the right time

9. Latchford folk have never eaten popcorn at a church meeting before!!

10. Tea also keeps me going...

Other things I have learned:

1. Never leave the mic switched on when you leave the funeral service and stand outside!

2. When meeting others at a beach which is around 4km long try to find out where you are going to meet.

3. I like coffee