Mother’s Day

Recently one of our sons played his violin in a concert for the first time. Of course he played only very basic pieces of music, but it is a significant step from playing a few pieces with a piano to playing in an orchestra. When my mother saw the photos of her grandson in an orchestra, she said that her heart swelled with pride and appreciation.

It made me realise that concern for children often does not end with one generation; it continues through the generations. Even though grandparents know that their grandchildren are normally not directly their own responsibility, they are so engaged with their own children that their care also continues to the grandchildren. And while our care for the children often does begin with the pregnancy, it normally does not end when they leave home. A mother’s love continues and includes at least to some extent also the grandchildren. It is such long-term commitment that in part makes what it is to be human. It is only right to recognise mothers for the role they have played in our lives.

Property sale progress

The deadline sale closing 15 April 2026 did not result in adequate offers for the tennis court land. Negotiations immediately following the date also were not successful. Therefore the land is now on the market with a set indicative minimum price – $3.1 million. Marketing has been renewed and the real estate agent thinks that there is a chance that an interested party may come forward. She nevertheless warned that the current market conditions are difficult.

There has been continued engagement with the Christchurch Methodist Mission. It would still be interested in the land should government policy change so that it would allow them to invest more in housing.