SCHOOL FINISHES FOR 2012

7th to 14th December 2012

With only eleven days to Christmas it is a busy time, a time where we sometimes forget the important things in life in the rush to shop.  If we stop for a while, remember to smile and spread joy.  If we give to others rather than expecting to receive then our hearts are set alight with love and joy.

My last few days of school this week were spent taking part in the Medieval Activities, I made a dress, using a dress I already had and adding long flowing sleeves and an over skirt, I made a special headpiece made of wool, flowers and ribbon.  On Tuesday we had a special assembly where all the groups came together and showed the rest of the Grade what we had done.  It was a special time seeing how talented people are and I also learnt some new information about Medieval times. 

Our Medieval day ended with a special luncheon, a spit roast with meat, salads and roast potato and pumpkin.  I think it was a magnificent way to finish off what has been a challenging yet totally enjoyable year. 

Presenting the Pathfinder Award at the Middle School Celebration was such an honour for me, I think that the person who won it was very deserving and will set an example to others to forge a path in life and think of others to make a difference.

On Monday night it was our Senior School Celebration, it is a night where the students from Years 9 to 11 come together to recognise fellow students achievements.  You can imagine my total surprise when I was awarded not one but two awards.  One was a subject award for English, which I was so thrilled about because I had worked so dedicatedly in English especially in my Romeo and Juliet project  and my speech about A Bridge to Wiseman's Cove, which I achieved 100% in both.  Then I was just so humbled, surprised and honoured to be awarded a special award, only one student in Senior School receives it each year.  It was the award for Personal Achievement.  The Head of Senior School gave a speech before awarding it, he mentioned how I was so dedicated to my studies, how I had represented the school in sports, continued to contribute to the School and community and showed so much courage and determination despite adversity.  I actually felt just a little embarrassed about receiving the award, I am sure that there are other students in the School who are far more deserving than I am.  I think I have said this many times, I have been given a journey and I just try to remain positive and make the most out of each and every day, it is just what you do when you face something like this. 

I was so very excited though to see Jarrett also receive two awards, he got an Academic Excellence in PE and then an application award for Mathematics.  He was also surprised by his awards, but he too has worked really dedicatedly this year, I am so proud of him. 

The Principal in his speech on the night started by saying "Never, never, never give up", he then went on to talk about Neil Armstrong and his determination and courage in his life and what he was able to achieve.  Every person should always believe in themselves and definitely never give up especially on their dreams.

I had physiotherapy and again Kaitlyn, who is has worked so tirelessly to try to assist me with my pain this year, worked on my spine, it has been extremely painful and causing me so many problems.  She is able to provide some relief and I am so grateful to her for that. 

I also had an appointment with my paediatrician, he too has been so wonderful this year.  He is very supportive and is always there to listen and try to help me.  I have to see him again on 8th January, he is going to keep a close eye on me now. 

Tonight I have Interclub again, last week despite been sore, competed in discus and shot put and it was so worth it because I achieved a personal best in discus throwing the 350g discus 6.36m and then throwing the 1.5kg shot put threw it 2.22m.  Having the lighter weights makes it a bit easier for me and does not hurt my spine as much. 

Next week will be splendiferous because my Nana and Pop are coming to spend some time over Christmas with us and my Uncle James and Aunty Kate.  I always love to see them and give them huge hugs, I think Grandparents hugs are very special. 

Last Christmas we went to Queensland to be with them, at that time I never expected that my journey would take another twist.  I remember having back pain when I was there but never expected to hear the devastating news I did.   I have asked Santa for a surprise this year for Christmas, I secretly wish it was a magic wand to take away my pain and make me better, but I don't think there is one of those anywhere.  So I will continue to find an inner strength to try to keep fighting, hoping a cure can be found.

Most days now I find I am very weary and have to have a sleep, rest helps your body to recover and continue to fight.  I have found that I have to take ondansetron more often to help cope with nausea, it works very well, which is a good thing because I hate been sick. 

I will have to start looking through the cook books and look for some delicious treats to make for Christmas, I am already going to make a gingerbread house and coconut ice. 

To anyone who is travelling during this time, stay safe and alert and don't rush to be where you have to be, take your time and enjoy the beautiful landscapes around you. 

With many thanks again to all those who read my Blog, I truly appreciate your support and often read back on the many comments to give me strength and courage.