And with little steps we went to Government House

It's official.

ShoePal #1 has won an award from the state of South Australia for his part in shoe collection.

Today, as part of Children's Week, he received the Youth Award for "outstanding and consistent contributions to the needs, interests and welfare of children", "in recognition of the discovery that listening followed by action can bring shoes for the children of the world".

His whole family was invited to Government House, along with Virginia (who sadly could not attend), "Auntie Susie" (who happily DID attend), his school principal (Denise Scala), and his house leader (Mr P). Back months ago, Mr P had written an article for the South Australian Anglican Church newsletter. A lady who saw it, even though she didn't know ShoePal #1, contacted the school to seek parental permission to nominate him for his efforts. And what would you know. He won the award. This lovely lady was also present at the award ceremony today.

Speaking with ShoePal #1 the night before the event, we discussed who else was involved in the success of the project, and who else was involved in him having the opportunity to win the award, and it was delightful to hear him list off so many many people with ease. It truly has been a group effort, and whilst we're thrilled for ShoePal #1 and this acknowledgement of the Award, we are also proud that he realises that so many people were involved in the jigsaw which led to his nomination and receipt of the Award. So, on behalf of ShoePal #1, thank you to all who contributed to the success of the project, and his successful nomination for the Youth Award.

Finally, how wonderful that his school and government recognise the positive power which can be grown in young people when they are encouraged, supported, and affirmed for positive actions and behaviours which can change the world.

Absolutely, and indeed ShoePal #1 has made small steps, following big dreams, to achieve giant feats. Congratulations Precious. From Mummy and Daddy.

Off to Buckingham Palace...

well. to be honest, Government House but it is easy to get a bit confused when you recieve an invitation to go and visit!

Shoe- Pal 1 has been nominated for an award for his work on the project and as part of Children's Week Awards, we are all off to a reception at Government House for the presentations next week!

What on earth is 'Day Dress'??

D Day ( DESPATCH DAY and counting...!)

Guess what? For all those who have so patiently waited and wondered how this was all going to happen - it finally did! On October the 19th 2009, 2000 pairs of shoes were sent on their way to Malawi!

There is very little we can say that will adequately express out gratitude to Edwin, Alison, Alison's mum and Paul of Marion Pack and Send for their extraordinary support! Over 30 freight companies/contacts were made and in the end it was Edwin who was the real 'CAN DO' man - and he is amazing!

With an anticipated 51 days transit time, the shoes should be with Virginia in early December. I spoke with Virginia, her niece Felista, Prayer and Victor the other day - well 0430 actually in Malawi - oops- but it was wonderful.

Check out the crew at Marion Pack and Send - who have already put their hand up for our next venture ( GULP - Karen, sorry...we are still talking arent we??)

what a difference a year makes...

it's hard to believe- this time last year the project was just a thought, an idea. A tiny little baby was born 7 weeks early and prayers went up all over the country for the safety of him and his mum. Just look at him now!

FEDERATION SQUARE MELBOURNE

It actually happened! Across Federation Square, Melbourne, where Virginia and i stood together back in July, her story as told to Shoe-Pal 1 was broadcast to the whole city! As part of the liaison and networking with Global Dialogue Foundation, we were invited to present our story as part of the Windows of the World celebrations in Melbourne over 2 weekends. Inspired by the Changing the Dream Symposium,live music, cultural dance, henna painting,and world projects on film were presented to inspire and encourage a brighter future on our planet based on goodwill, friendship, social justice, sustainability and community connection.

...and there was our little team, putting our hands up and saying small steps, big dreams and great feats..are possible!!

Rigth at home in Launceston, Tasmania

During our time in Tassie, Poni, Virginia and I were invited to share in a fundraising dinner beinghel at a local church. Titled 'A taste of Africa', it was a wonderful evening of African music, dance, drumming, food and artwork.

Imagine Virginia's delight when she was greeted in Chichewa by the organisers of the evening. The delight was mutual for the organisers to have a guest from Malawi there for the evening. IRIS Ministries are established in Malawi, building schools,providing education for students from pre school to secondary school and assisting widows, orphans and others with monthly food assistance.

The fundraising dinner was to support these efforts - and was just like our feasts for feet - but on steroids!

a fantastic night and a wonderful way for Virginia and Poni to see another side of Australia.

what is your plan for today?

I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good that I can do, or any kindness i can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it for I shall not pass this way again.

Precise origin unknown. Variously attributed to Quakers Stephen Grellet 1773-1855, and William Penn, 1644-1718 and to Mahatma Ghandi, 1869-1948.