tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54305217167139124392012-03-19T06:49:28.706+13:00Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.comBlogger871100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-773455339708406342008-08-01T16:58:00.004+12:002008-08-01T17:21:00.552+12:00

There has been a phenomenon that has quickly come through the ranks in the last few years. You may have noticed it. Despite the many many words I could use to describe this phenomenon of universal proportions, it's easier to simplify it down to 3 words. These words are High, School, and Musical.I'm not quite as bad as my friend Sam, who some of you may know through the grapevine, as rumor has it

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-55170857773302442492008-07-27T21:41:00.012+12:002008-07-27T22:05:41.326+12:00

Yesterday we had a massive storm which destroyed trees, powerlines and most people's ability to use anything relying on electricity for most of the day. However, along with all the ridiculous wind and destruction it brought; it brought swell and blustery offshore winds. Being 20 and somewhat unwilling to give up my sense of adventure too soon, I managed to get 2 other buddies into the car and

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-39263855928790407962008-07-25T21:51:00.001+12:002008-07-25T21:53:41.943+12:00

This is awesome - I'll definitely be working on my gingerbread haka in time for tomorrow's test match against the Australians.Legendary.

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-19585343086338261342008-07-20T21:30:00.006+12:002008-07-20T22:20:15.447+12:00

I am so blessed to be working with such an amazing team at church. It's the greatest feeling in the world to know that I don't need to torture people with my vocal abilities (which by the way aren't as bad as others might like to have you think) or setup, lead worship, be the lead musician, preach, MC, and then packdown all by myself.It's an honour to be working with such incredible, committed,

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-11974554252207180782008-07-18T16:51:00.006+12:002008-07-18T17:33:26.623+12:00

You know what one of the hardest things I've found in my christian walk to do is?Obey.Yeah, I know what you're thinking, "wow, this guy's original". However, despite the fact that it's more than often the guy wearing the "traditional old-school flannel shirt, skin tight brown shorts and socks in the sandals" christian look that says the kind of cliche statements like I did, it's true.I think

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-28225620291688211122008-07-16T19:38:00.002+12:002008-07-16T19:47:54.481+12:00

This is legendary. "Do you ever imagine how God spends His day? I do, but then I'm weird. I like to think He gets up early, shoots a round of Frisbee golf with David (the whole sling thing makes him pretty good), grabs breakfast at the Heaven Denny's with C.S. Lewis and then spends the rest of the day building waterslide parks for my eventual arrival. But apparently, I'm wrong. Apparently God

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-65371281009629223322008-07-14T21:24:00.011+12:002008-07-14T22:25:14.817+12:00

In a recent post I hinted at the fact that our 3 drum trio 'Sticks' has made it into the 2nd round of New Zealand's Got Talent. To dispel all rumors that may or may not find themselves sweeping the nation; yes, we have made it.The next round of auditions which, to my understanding, is televised, is on the 8th and 9th of August. Hopefully if we make it through I'll be able to attach a tele clip of

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-55109235774019520492008-07-12T16:48:00.007+12:002008-07-12T17:17:19.562+12:00

Today I ripped out the old tenpin skills from the vault of skills. Yes, it is a small vault.... but a vault of skills none the less. Here's some photographic memories of our epic afternoon spent at the local arena:Unfortunately, due to a car crash and a time resting comfortably on ACC money, my friend Dan has spent many a time over the last three weeks at the TenPin Bowling arena. Therefore, it

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-71454252354626979642008-07-10T22:19:00.004+12:002008-07-10T22:29:11.844+12:00

Today was a good day.Today was a great day in fact.Today I got to eat chocolate and not feel bad because I did 30 push ups and 20 sit ups in the morning.Today I found out I'm confirmed for going to America for 3 weeks.Today I worked on planning our next drum item for the second round of NZ's Got Talent.Today it wasn't raining!Today got a chance to properly listen to the new Hillsong album I

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-39348033271326309382008-07-09T21:37:00.005+12:002008-07-09T22:08:16.521+12:00

As many of you know, I work part time at a Video Store near my house, basically to keep bringing in the money to allow me to give as much time to the church and run the youth ministry as possible. It's a great environment which as well as gives me as many free movies as I like, gives me time to hang out with people my own age in the same area.Today, as I was selling lotto to a customer - as any

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-33743762383288053792008-07-05T10:11:00.007+12:002008-07-06T15:05:30.810+12:00

A few weeks ago we had one of the guys from Excel School of Performing Arts come and stay with us while they were playing in highschools and churches around our area. He was called Jesse and funnily enough played drums... and guitar... and sang... and probably the piano accordian if I'd had one for him to play. Anywho we ended up at this ladies house playing pingpong - or table tennis for the

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-61127431835480372232008-06-28T15:16:00.011+12:002008-06-30T00:12:40.034+12:00

We got up at 5am having had approximately 5hours sleep - on our way to NZ's first New Zealand's Got Talent!Ethan was still in his boxers without breakfast and expecting us to be arriving an hour after what we'd planned.Being the first people there, standing in line with the constant, heavy rain holding us captive from moving much outside we figured we'd keep ourselves entertained and before long

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-82493006428455797872008-06-21T02:03:00.006+12:002008-06-21T02:23:20.715+12:00

Yesterday my friends and I went snowboarding at SnowPlanet about 20min north of my house. It's a completely indoor snow complex but dispite being miles from anything remotely close to snow, it's made man-made snow inside the complex."SnowPlanet - Snow 365 days a year."It was my first ever experience at Snowboarding, and flip it exceeded my expectations! There isn't much to say other than it is by

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-17488403597917858042008-06-14T15:50:00.003+12:002008-06-14T15:54:36.247+12:00

The audition can only be 1min 30sec so we've had to be pretty disciplined in what we put in and take out. Hopefully, if we get a chance to get through to the next round, we'll pull out some other awesome stuff that most of you haven't seen before.Audio quality isn't fantastic - filmed right off my MacBook.

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-73676543113063285722008-06-11T22:16:00.008+12:002008-06-11T23:15:42.328+12:00

I've been pretty blown away by the really quick interest people have shown in our audition for New Zealand's Got Talent. It's not just me who is auditioning in our slot - it's also some of my best friends Ben and Ethan. Basically, we're 3 drummers from our church who were asked about 2 years ago to come up with a dynamic, raw drumming item for a 'Creative Celebration' service at our church. It

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-82812542451545175852008-06-10T16:46:00.007+12:002008-06-10T22:47:24.349+12:00

This is going to be interesting.... Keep your eye out for updates on our rehearsals... and when we'll be shown on TV.

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-86884593794581301202008-06-09T08:30:00.007+12:002008-06-09T09:24:34.853+12:00

Since warm water is no longer an option unless I take a very long and expensive trip overseas, surfing may not be on the cards for a while. My friend and I decided once that because it was the middle of winter, and we were so desperate for a surf, we would do a winter roadtrip to find some waves. We ended up at Whangamata Beach, a 2 and a something hour drive, and only staying in the water for

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-73611969258441219692008-06-07T16:20:00.005+12:002008-06-07T22:36:26.242+12:00

I finally finished my sermon. It's called "How do you smell?".One of the verses I came to is in 2 Corinthians 2:14 - 16 which says "But thanks be to God, who always leads in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."Christians are called

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-57247357204310901702008-06-05T17:14:00.007+12:002008-06-05T17:45:21.037+12:00

One of the coolest things about working part time at a video store is not only that we get as many free movies as we want, but we also often get to watch heaps of the movies of preview before they come into the store. For example, I can watch the new Rambo movie (which according to my friend is "awesomely horrible") before it's even on the release date brochure in Video Ezy.Anyway, I watched the

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-26709134857472283442008-06-04T10:26:00.006+12:002008-06-05T15:12:26.085+12:00

Hmm. So I realised last night that I'm preaching this Sunday at one of our partner churches in Orewa. I knew I was preaching on the 8th but I think I must have been so focussed on Camp I lost track of dates. I thought that was next week. I'll be spending abit time this week putting together a sermon - stay tuned as to how this comes together.In other news: this guy is a legend of music. He put

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-59334982591715423672008-06-02T12:43:00.012+12:002008-06-02T13:54:54.649+12:00

I successfully survived a weekend with 50 something teenagers on cans of V. That's a big statement to be able to say, but all in all it was an awesome weekend for our Youth Camp 2008 near Whangarei.The weekend kicked off with Rosco, our Bus driver for the charted bus, arriving in the dark with harzard lights on and the techno music pumping through it's many speakers. The atmosphere was electric,

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-73465145533060780562008-05-28T22:10:00.007+12:002008-05-28T22:47:56.658+12:00

I was pretty amazed at the response my last post ended up having, some good points being made from differing views and although some of them were pretty strong I appreciate the fact that people are taking the time to read and to comment on different points. As some of you know I'm running our church youth camp this weekend and we've had an incredible response of registrations come in, surpassing

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-56533240442095180972008-05-25T21:02:00.008+12:002008-05-25T21:52:19.702+12:00

We just had an awesome service this morning and we had the privilege of having Wayne and Libby Hurirua previously from the Parachute Band come and lead us in worship. These guys are incredible with creating an awesome atmosphere of worship and leading people into the presence of God. The worship time was amazing, the sound quality and fullness of the band was awesome, but what was an even greater

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-53508203166959819572008-05-22T18:03:00.012+12:002008-05-22T22:36:13.679+12:00

One of the greatest innovations of the 21st century is the legal, worldwide phenomenon of downloading music, also known as iTunes. There was always Napster and LimeWire but my concience of downloading music tracks from other people for free wouldn't let me continue doing it. I thought I'd found the greatest thing on earth in LimeWire but I found everytime I'd go to use it I'd feel pretty

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-10421054104400675522008-05-20T17:18:00.005+12:002008-05-20T18:09:19.061+12:00

I was reading in John 1 today, best gospel by far by-the-way, and I came across this cool snippet from one of the verses. We're set in the wilderness, next to the Jordan river in Israel, when we read of Mr John. Baptist. 'J-dog' as I like to call him. We pick up the story in John 1:22 where it says "Finally they [the Jewish priests] said 'Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-39885381554316245242008-05-17T17:57:00.005+12:002008-05-17T19:29:40.064+12:00

For those of you who've been reading and commenting on my last post you will already be up in the know as to what this post may be about. Some discussion was raised about really how we as Christians are presenting the gospel - something that has been an age old debate for a long enough time. The sides presented are in reference to making sure that we aren't sharing the gospel in a way that judges

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-74707834412468684342008-05-13T16:50:00.007+12:002008-05-14T10:33:25.407+12:00

I got back late on Sunday night from a weekend away for a break with my mate Sam. It was good times; chilling listening to music and walking in the rain to get dinner from the local takeaways.We left around 3pm on the Sunday afternoon to get back in time for us to get ready for the week to come when, 20 minutes away from the bach and about to drive up a huge hill in the mountains, our front left

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-69898706642822269142008-05-08T22:06:00.010+12:002008-05-08T23:34:32.638+12:00

I went to the Foo Fighters on Tuesday at the Vector Arena. Honestly, I don't know where to start. There were so many awesome factors that made the night one of the best gigs I have ever been to. Although I've done this recently I thought to make it easier reading (and for my ability to express how the night was) so I've put together the top 10 things of the night.So here we go:1. The greatest

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-369638006436537582008-05-06T15:24:00.009+12:002008-05-06T16:52:12.663+12:00

I have to say it - 3D is the new rad fad. I've been dying to say that rhyme all day. As I sit down in a remake of the classic Tom Hanks typing pose from "You've Got Mail" I struggle to hold myself back from breaking out in a hip-hop rhyme -Yo, Yo, my mind is going crazy like my nerves are some sort of a yo-yo,Some people struggle to believe the fact that I like to say some things like say-so,I'm

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-31229391777154759442008-05-04T15:03:00.014+12:002008-05-04T18:50:35.367+12:00

So I'm going to the Foos on Tuesday - a post-modern classic rock experience which is bound to blow my mind and most certainly my air drums. Given that the last show I paid decent money for was Justin Timberlake, I have abit of roughing up to do if I am to fit with the rock image and culture.Therefore, after some researching and hard thinking, I've put together a list of the top 5 things that are

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com71tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-19666999066120580472008-05-03T12:18:00.013+12:002008-05-03T14:25:39.227+12:00

"For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil...Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave.Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house,lest you give your best strength to others and your years to one who is cruel.For a man's ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all his paths.The evil deeds of a wicked man

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-75093387750064152422008-04-29T22:55:00.008+12:002008-04-29T23:16:22.972+12:00

Our Youth Camp 'Connect 08' has the most magnificent of all themes: Superheroes. After a unanimous vote from my youth in favour of me going as Mr Incredible, I have gone shopping to find my supreme superhero outfit.I cannot begin to describe to you how awkward it was asking the attractive 20 something yr-old shop assistant where the pantyhose section was in the female area of Farmers.It disturbs

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-27788171491247092772008-04-27T16:25:00.006+12:002008-04-27T17:05:04.118+12:00

Ok so I'm mega excited about the next Indiana Jones movie.I remember one of the first times I watched Indiana Jones - it was the 1981 movie titled the "Raiders of the Lost Ark". It was an intermediate's interactive movie night with lolly snakes and hiding under blankets when Indy is in a cave. Great memories.I used to love watching Indiana Jones with my dad or with my family - all the adventures

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-28428870005657049162008-04-15T12:11:00.016+12:002008-04-15T13:21:51.996+12:00

After some great comments and points made by different readers, something that's come up is what really is 'revolution' and how does that look in reference to Christianity? Just before I put some thoughts down, I just need to say that although my bible knowledge and understanding of the bible is pretty good, I am in no way a scholar. I'm not even very intellectual or very good when it comes to

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-43958415932032326472008-04-11T17:26:00.006+12:002008-04-11T18:05:38.078+12:00

There seems to be talk about a Jesus revolution all over the world at the moment. And it's awesome. There seems, from speaking to other people especially youth, that something of a revolution is beginning. Not just a heap of hype or talk with the word "revolution" printed out and slapped on the front, but a real transformed change and passionate group of people ready to make it happen.The word

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-57911352488472182772008-04-07T22:12:00.006+12:002008-04-07T22:55:01.623+12:00

Michael Clayton. One word: awesome.I watched Michael Clayton, played by George Clooney for the second time tonight, delayed somewhat by time taken for it to come out on DVD.The movie is based around the character Michael Clayton who is a 'fixer' at a large lawyer's firm in NY. He finds himself stuck in a huge dilemma as he is called upon to help sort out a quickly growing issue with one of his

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-60375148516037486122008-04-05T17:39:00.006+13:002008-04-05T18:31:37.224+13:00

Today I bought "Experience Hendrix: The best of Jimi Hendrix". Although I haven't really had much of a chance to listen to it and really absorb the skill and ability everybody talks about I'm starting to fall in love with blues music.One of my all-time favourite musicians and consequently one of my favourite albums is Continuum by John Mayer. The laid back, groove bass line and full sounding

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-66844787310060206422008-03-31T23:08:00.006+13:002008-03-31T23:28:11.495+13:00

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-13565805082794559452008-03-31T21:38:00.004+13:002008-03-31T22:06:17.337+13:00

Well, needless to say it's been a while since my last post.However, I miss the blogging days and I am here to get back into the swing of things.I love the way subconscious thoughts can be expressed on paper (or web) and come out in a way that isn't always thought through and planned.I don't really have much of plan for this blog, hopefully it can be a place where I can put down my thoughts in an

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-8002284269302868172007-10-28T15:37:00.000+13:002007-10-29T11:17:18.579+13:00

Well, what can I say?The launch of LifeChangers Church was today, the 28th of October, Two Thousand and Seven.Hu - uge.I arrived early around 8:45 for the 10am start and was blown away by the state the Browns Bay Primary School hall was in. Yesterday (while I was at work) a brave bunch of hearty workers steadily set up the hall in preparation for today, a lengthy 4 hour set up.Unfortunately I

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-7419376844215016292007-10-24T15:46:00.000+13:002007-10-24T16:04:54.096+13:00

Euan asked a fantastic question in my last post which has prompted some deep thinking on behalf of myself over the last few days. Amongst the intelligent and well thought through other parts of his comment he posed the question of what the info was on Mandy Moore. Or more specifically, Mandy Moore and I.The truth is, Mandy Moore and I have been in a relationship for quite some time now. I've

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-62002274435660321702007-10-18T08:11:00.000+13:002007-10-18T08:40:03.321+13:00

Hey guys, I hope you're all doing well.I'm thinking the best way to start this post off is by apologising to my many readers who have been close to personal emotional breakdowns after the numerous times of turning up to my blog to see that I haven't done a post in near on 3 months. That's near depressing. But, I am hoping to redeem myself through this post.Alot has happened since I last post,

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-53493336297398008462007-08-06T16:53:00.000+12:002007-08-06T17:21:25.456+12:00

At this moment in time, it is exactly 4:55pm. Exactly 95 minutes until I start work and approximately finishing around 1am. Now although 1am doesn't sound too late for some of you reading (I am aware of the many all nighters some of you have recently accomplished), but, I am currently lying in my warm spa and listening to some quality music. Life is great.I often seem to come back to this point,

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-87365304513644378822007-07-30T17:21:00.000+12:002007-07-30T17:57:11.547+12:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I have been thinking heaps about what I want to do with my life. A week or so ago, on a thursday to be exact, I went out for coffee. By myself.Now although this may sound like the start of a sad story about a guy who was so bored he had to go out for coffee, and then didn't even have enough friends to go out with someone else, BUT, that's not true.As I was sitting

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-84442616756146303112007-07-24T17:13:00.000+12:002007-07-24T17:46:36.949+12:00

Hey guys - I realised I haven't done a post in quite some time now so I figured I'd give ya a quick update of what's been going on in my life currently.A few weeks ago a number of the youth leaders in our church (including myself) took around 20 of our youth to Get Smart youth conference which was held at Harbourside Church on the shore of Auckland's southern North Shore. This was an incredible

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-58031203176534900462007-07-10T17:30:00.000+12:002007-07-10T17:36:40.697+12:00

My first "vlog" aka video blog for those a little challenged with today's lingo. I forgot to mention that God provided the best job for me possible lately. I just finished up at my Market Research job and found out I have been offered the greatest job for me at the moment. Face to face contact instead of just over the phone, great pay and awesome hours - all from just one step into a

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-31606718702282769592007-07-01T20:59:00.000+12:002007-07-01T21:57:51.416+12:00

Following from my last post "It's worth it", I've had some awesome feedback which was more than what I'd hoped for or expected.One of the main things I picked up from some of the comments that were posted is that there is a very important factor within the role of being a leader.I have recently been discovering some keys to leadership that have been life changing to the way I both live and lead.

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-16415938129434604682007-06-26T21:47:00.000+12:002007-06-26T22:38:33.578+12:00

I've really struggled lately with my growth process as a leader.It is one of the hardest things when you see things other people can't see and aren't willing to change. Being involved with leading things this year has been one the most rewarding things ever. Coming up with an idea, expanding it, making it happen and seeing people's lives changed or impacted in the end is by far one of the

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-10699288303532066552007-06-21T15:11:00.000+12:002007-06-22T22:29:38.250+12:00

Life on the move.I recently attended the Pursuit of Excellence conference in Manukau and there were some incredible things preached at some of the sessions which I found totally revamped the way I live life.One of these was a message preached by an English pastor Paul Scanlon.He preached about the Will of God, which is always a controversial topic to many believers in the modern world. He used

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-18493947420943297202007-06-17T21:50:00.000+12:002007-06-17T21:50:43.361+12:00

Here is the second week of "Photography". Every Monday I upload a photo I've taken, for you to download and put on your desktop for the week.Just click on the image to enlarge it for greater detail.Trust me, with shots this world class, you don't want to miss out :)'Council meets nature'Winstones Cove, Torbay

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-89648565700062257542007-06-13T16:09:00.000+12:002007-06-17T21:48:45.941+12:00

A day or two a go some of you may have read the post I put up on Atheism. Firstly, I want to thank Rob who left a comment on the Atheism post I put up a few days ago. I think blogs are a good way to discuss alot of different things ranging from sport to religion.Religion / faith / belief, whatever you want to call it, is an incredibly huge part of life; sometimes causing splits between families

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-44650679331425900132007-06-11T17:41:00.000+12:002007-06-12T12:56:24.992+12:00

As promised, here is the first of the pictures I'll upload for you to download and put on your desktop for the week. Even though the whole concept might be kinda dumb, at least for a second or two you can flick past a good picture :)(Just click on the image and it will enlarge enough so it becomes a decent sized picture)South Island of New Zealand - West Coast

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-75812922767199349352007-06-10T15:52:00.000+12:002007-06-17T21:49:31.368+12:00

This is off James MacPherson's blog which I think answers alot of why I love being a follower of Jesus - He actually gives genuine meaning to life."Atheism has made something of a comeback in the past 12 months with people like Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris arguing passionately that belief in the transcendent is folly. Atheism, the absolute belief that there is no Absolute, is the mother of ...

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-29516177073495741292007-06-08T15:05:00.000+12:002007-06-12T12:57:10.002+12:00

I've currently been working on my photography and capturing some incredible shots with my newish Canon Powershot S400.Each Monday I'll upload a photo for you to download and put as your desktop for the week.Trust me, with shots this world class, you don't want to miss out :)

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-80691567659890933512007-06-07T17:22:00.000+12:002007-06-08T14:56:10.124+12:00

I believe God has an awesome plan for each of our lives.Life was never intended to be something we just use up through work hours, worry and sleep.As someone once said "Life is your coin, you can only spend it once". When Jesus said in John 10:10 "I have come that they may have life and life to the full", he wasn't meaning half empty or half full - but overflowing the cup.God is into overflow. He

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-43683759994983103732007-06-04T21:34:00.000+12:002007-06-04T21:58:51.388+12:00

I have been thinking.This weekend just gone by we had our youth camp for church. It was awesome, games, movies, hanging out, FOOD and services encountering God. We also had both an incredible youth leader and very good mate come and speak at camp at both of our 2 services throughout the weekend.The first night he spoke about the things we are passionate about. He used the illustration of how he

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-50774836249536093912007-05-27T13:16:00.000+12:002007-05-27T13:43:36.797+12:00

Hey guys, I'm honestly pretty dissappointed with my lack of posting lately. Its mostly due to my lack of things I feel are interesting to write about.However, all self pity aside, I have come to an awesome and life changing revelation / realisation.For a long time I have struggled to find the balance between working incredibly hard (in whatever area of life) while still enjoying life and having

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-408727515646841182007-04-29T21:06:00.000+12:002007-04-29T22:01:45.392+12:00

I had a dream the other night that Jake Gyllenhall had come to my house.We went down the road to a friend's house and played table tennis and sat around talking.For a moment somewhere inbetween the intense tennis battles and the deep, intimate discussion there I thought it had the potential to turn into another Brokeback moment.Until I realised his surprise new relationship with Reese

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-4911052793969692922007-04-26T21:38:00.000+12:002007-04-26T21:47:06.007+12:00

I was thinking, when I die I might get my ushers to hand out to the thousands of guests, on little laminated white bits of paper, my URL of my blog so that people may enjoy my life as a 19 year old and beyond.

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-86680467371159854062007-04-25T16:54:00.000+12:002007-04-25T17:08:51.721+12:00

Torbay: North Shore: Auckland: New Zealand. THE best place to live, hands down.This is an incredible masterpiece of artwork. Panoramic view of our local cove:"Good old Winstones."

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-6135670932352492912007-04-23T21:39:00.000+12:002007-04-23T22:26:47.761+12:00

After an awesome comment on my last post from Robert M Stratchan - "your concept of God is a little one sided, isn't it? Have you ever considered that god doesn't exist? That might help Jesus?"- I have thought about the idea of the existence of God.Its interesting to note that the only 'religion' that believes Jesus is the only way to heaven are the only religion to claim people can hear God.

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-14737304151614096362007-04-20T15:33:00.000+12:002007-04-20T15:56:35.354+12:00

"For I know the plans I have for you' declares the Lord. 'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."Jeremiah 29:11You are unique.There is no one else in the world like you.No one else has the same values, upbringing, background, passions, strengths and weaknesses.You were made for a specific purpose. To give God glory.Don't underestimate the power you have

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-77339430178742884142007-04-19T23:32:00.000+12:002007-04-19T23:53:21.262+12:00

I've had two spa's today and I smell undeniably like chlorine.Sam said "the greatest thing I could do for mankind today was draw a picture of him". He didn't quite put it like that but thats pretty much how I interpreted it.So, world, here is my gift to you - Mr. Sam Burrows.

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-15836703470184638852007-04-18T22:31:00.000+12:002007-04-18T22:53:42.916+12:00

Just got home today from the ultimate roadtrip up north.We left on Monday 16th April and headed up.We dropped past Pakiri about 1 1/4 hrs north and stumbled across a tampon commercial.Needless to say, it was fantastic.We then continued driving towards the tip of civilization (aka. Kiatia) and pulled in at Waipu (pronounced why-poo).After flicking through my "AA New Zealand ACCOMODATION" (

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-80742115357443599482007-04-15T22:35:00.000+12:002007-04-15T23:02:49.553+12:00

Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family.Proverbs 18:24On Saturday night I went to the Blues vs Sharks Super 14 game at North Harbour Stadium.It was honestly one of the best nights I've had in ages.Even though the Blues almost got slaughtered at still lost by 7 points, the thing that maybe made the night for me was my mates who I got to hang out with that night.I

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-66072937945394086852007-04-14T16:13:00.000+12:002007-04-14T16:20:58.274+12:00

This is quite possibly the coolest thing I have read in a long time.By Mr John Mayer himself.Often times when staring out into space, those around me will ask me if I am okay, or inquire as to what I am thinking about. (I've always found the question "what are you thinking about?" to be one of the most invasive moves of all time.) I usually try and avoid the truth and discourage being asked again

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-72910101596266560282007-04-14T16:01:00.000+12:002007-04-14T16:20:37.412+12:00

I've decided that lack of good Auckland weather has called for a road trip.I haven't really been on one for AGES and I've forgotten what kind of traditions go along with them.I'm thinking things like donuts in secluded Whangarei carparks.Living off pies and primo.Driving a tiny little 2 door Daihatsu with 3 guys, 3 surfboards and a large amount of junk.And possibly sleeping under the

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-43883070025507068532007-04-12T22:42:00.000+12:002007-04-12T23:14:37.563+12:00

I'm currently sitting at my desk contemplating where my life is heading.What do I really want to achieve in my life?Have a Toyota Alteza, twin turbo? Sure.Have a modern house overlooking the unknown and greatest surf beach? Absolutely.Possibly have an beautiful wife who cooks well and doesn't mind, never has fights and brings the best out in me no what is going on? Haha definitely!I think all of

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-39264647418033866642007-04-11T21:32:00.000+12:002007-04-11T21:39:04.836+12:00

This is Ben, quite sexy I must say......Well, I have pretty much ripped up at work lately.I don't wanna blow my own trumpet or anything......but I think I may soon become the CEO of my work.My name is currently being flashed everywhere,Soon to be all over the world.Watch this space...................................................................................

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-34178820819472728532007-04-10T16:26:00.000+12:002007-06-17T21:47:52.646+12:00

"And we, with unveiled faces, reflect the Lord's glory and are being transformed into His likeness with ever increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is spirit."2 Corinthians 3:18We all shine.What are you shining? Are you shining your own glory or God's?The more we're transformed into Christ's likeness, the greater the reflection of His glory we shine.If we want to show Jesus in an even

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-80989424511581029992007-04-09T22:29:00.000+12:002007-06-17T21:48:17.629+12:00

VS"Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation — an aroma redolent with life. But those on the way to destruction treat us more like the stench from a rotting corpse." 2 Corinthians 2:16Everyone smells. It's

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-32862236893203251942007-04-09T22:15:00.000+12:002007-04-09T22:28:02.709+12:00

I was thinking today,I find the experience of being excited - going to people's blogs to read another post but finding there isn't one.I thought,It might be cool to do a whole month of posts, everyday, so that everyday a person comes to my blog they can read a new post.So that is my goal:1 NEW post EVERYDAY for 1 MONTH.9th April - 9th May.Check it, leave a comment and enjoy your month :)

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-56299664424258522712007-04-01T22:12:00.000+12:002007-04-01T22:49:12.380+12:00

So,Friday the 30th of March.We had a youth event called "slop wars" which pretty much consisted of 120kg of flour, mixed with enough water to keep a whale afloat......and threw it at each other.We had 4 teams and two areas next to each other, meaning all 4 teams could play at once.It was mayhem.People running from every direction slapping, hurling and thrashing paste everywhere over the other

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-66415860584419595222007-03-18T20:49:00.000+12:002007-03-19T15:24:05.338+12:00

Well it's almost been 1 month since my last blog and quite frankly I'm disappointed in myself.To be honest, the reason I decided to give up was because I felt unloved and that my depressingly low amount of comments left on my posts gave me no choice but to give up.However,After absolute suprise and an incredible amount of satisfaction of seeing 5 COMMENTS on my last post (a new record) I have

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-47782776742497941852007-02-19T22:31:00.000+13:002007-02-19T22:55:16.979+13:00

As a result of an incredible demand from both National and International markets, I have been hesitantly convinced to reveal my recent paintings to the world. Some may ask questions along the lines of "how can an artist of such high calibre, be hesitant of revealing his mind-bogglingly great paintings?!" And a good question that is. The answer.... I don't know. Frequently people of such

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-75388599730048938442007-02-05T15:08:00.000+13:002007-02-05T15:35:31.922+13:00

Sometimes its hard being so incredibly good looking and mind numbingly attractive. It's like being one of those small cute puppies or babies when stroked on the cheek and having your hair run through by someone's delicate fingers. There is the humble yet oh so subtle lying declaration with the half feminie voice of "oh stop it.... please".You throw the carefully timed and precise flick of the

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-13641649439484601342007-01-29T20:34:00.000+13:002007-01-29T21:38:33.539+13:00

Just recently Parachute Festival 07 was cranking down at Mystery Creek in Hamiltron, Waikatoooooooo. It was a legendary time and bands like Falling Up, Spacifix, Late 80s Mercedes etc etc took to the stage and thrashed it big time.One of the massive things that God spoke to me about through that weekend is an incredibly important and life changing attitude on life.God is so so REALI know that

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-14009361844186999782007-01-25T11:07:00.000+13:002007-01-25T11:21:45.495+13:00

I recon if you were this good, you would never have to worry about your rent again. Sit outside a supermarket for a few hours and you'd be as rich as me :)So, anyone who feels compelled, please do not hesitate to buy me one.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wt-M2pyXZX8

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-3214269473173169102007-01-23T16:56:00.000+13:002007-01-23T17:14:37.876+13:00

Well for those who know me know that I have just started working at Consumer Link a phone research / survey group. Contrary to popular and strongly mistaken opinion, we are not TeleMarketers.This is a small blog today but I want to throw out this simple and humble idea, making both my and some other colleague's lives alot easier.When the phone rings in the middle of your dinner or favourite part

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-76356591534391305042007-01-22T14:00:00.000+13:002007-01-22T15:16:55.030+13:00

Feel free too cloze yor eyez an emagin the beeuti. Thiis is the Land of the Looooong White ClowdLake Wanaka by NightLake Wanaka with artistic flare bridgeFranz Joseph Glacier, West Coast, South Island Southern Alps, NZ Psalm 50: 1, 6"The Mighty One, God, the Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sunto the place where it sets; the heavens proclaim his righteousness."

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-88541424662949094582007-01-19T12:24:00.000+13:002007-01-19T12:34:08.204+13:00

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-64495306947073974252007-01-15T23:16:00.000+13:002007-01-15T23:51:39.256+13:00

Following a legendary talk with a fantastic friend of mine my attention has been somewhat captured by the discussion of life purpose. Both of us have the absolute desire not just to live life, and I quote, "as its surpossed to be lived". Who decides how life is surpossed to be lived anyway?I want my life to make a difference in this world. I don't want me to be the kind of person that was known

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-7803666111502485502007-01-12T09:21:00.000+13:002007-01-13T17:37:13.686+13:00

Its funny how those who normally wouldn't be chased by thousands of screaming fans and TV shows can become the object of many people's dreams simply by playing music. The worldly steriotype of unattractive people is lost through the playing of some chords. Here are some examples:I ran into this guy on a boat trip to the South Island earlier in December...

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-5360944321035793712007-01-01T11:06:00.000+13:002007-01-01T11:31:50.918+13:00

As a result of our trip (which is still currently in operation), I have discovered an incredible love. This is no ordinary 'like' or meer temporary phase of feeling, this is a perpetual, eternal, and frequent heart involvement.I love toilets without a lock.Now I know what you're thinking, "What kind of person would like, or even consider such a feeling towards such a thing", however, due to many

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-67141103709792102752006-12-31T22:37:00.000+13:002007-01-01T14:14:01.468+13:00

Hey everyone,Well currently I am sitting in beautiful Nelson near the top of the south Island of sensational New Zealand on New Years Eve 2006. It's been awhile since my last visit but what better a time than to post ay?Just had my 19th Birthday - a surfing mag and T-shirt and a 45second; 14,000ft skydive ticket richer. Life is Guuuuuuuuud :-) I've been wanting such a present for a long long time

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-74464823812770539382006-12-20T23:06:00.000+13:002006-12-20T23:23:28.362+13:00

Yo,Well, currently I am 1/2 way through my Christmas present wrapping and kinda needing some more wrapping paper. I've had to wrap Mum n Dad's present with 2 bits combined that kinda looks like the worst wrapping job possible - however my confidence is still in the fact that there has got to be somebody out there that can, and has, done a worse job of wrapping a present than I ever could.Pretty

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5430521716713912439.post-29979378973721743132006-12-17T12:46:00.000+13:002006-12-20T23:31:40.334+13:00

Well, right about now I am looking forward to a good rest and summer barbe's, daily swims and suncream and long relaxing twighlights.Just came home from church where the Kid's Drama I was directing went so well. I think I must of got my first piece of fan mail from one of the angels which I must say I am incredibly excited about. Its my brother's birthday today and mine on Saturday so we're

Rhys Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06934754743553454650noreply@blogger.com0