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1683 days ago

The Way it Was

Marie from Flaxmere

For weeks I have heard people saying “ I just can’t wait for things to be back to normal.” I remember even saying that more than a few times myself. But as I’ve thought about our current situation I have realised how much I don’t want things to go back to the way they were. Here are a few of my reasons...

1. I hope that the next time a friend grabs me and pulls me in for a hug, I actually take the time to appreciate the gift of their presence and embrace.

2. I hope that when school resumes and you are dropping your kids off, you take the time to thank the staff for the amazing gift that they give to your family.

3. I hope that the next time I’m sitting in a crowded restaurant I take the time to look around at the smiling faces, loud voices and be more appreciative of the gift of community.

4. I hope that when I am at the grocery store that I take a moment to acknowledge the necessities of life and the amazing people who work so hard to keep us supplied.

5. I hope that I never again take for granted the ability to hop in the car and visit a friend, go to the beach, a restaurant or a movie, etc.

So, truth is, I don’t want things to return to the way they once were. I hope and pray that we take the lessons and challenges of the past few weeks and create a new normal.

My goal is to appreciate more, love harder, and truly appreciate the daily abundance of blessings that were so easily overlooked just a few weeks ago. If someone tells you they love you, take it to heart❤

More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.

This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.

Do you think this ban is reasonable?

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Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
  • 76.4% Yes
    76.4% Complete
  • 22.3% No
    22.3% Complete
  • 1.3% Other - I'll share below
    1.3% Complete
1486 votes
18 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.

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15 hours ago

CAROLS ON THE GREEN

Elma Pienaar from St Columba's Presbyterian Church

Sunday 1 December, 4-6.30pm, on H N Village Green. Koha sausage sizzle, Santa, Bay Cities's Symphonic Band, Dianne Abraham, Men in Black, Hukarere Girls' College, carol singing. Bring your chairs and a picnic basket and join the festivities. If inclement weather, we'll move into the church.