October 20, 2024

Israeli Wood Carver

Jiries Giacaman – woodcarving artisan.  He and his wife moved from Bethlehem to New Zealand 27 years ago.  They gladly share their memories of Palestine and the tedious process of creating beautiful carved pieces from precious wood from New Zealand.  Some of his wood was retrieved from old churches, building remodels and other interesting locations.  His love of this trade exudes with each passionate touch on the wood he molds.

Gina Truman traces her small kiwi bird on a piece of wood.

Jiries then cuts out the tiny birds.

Jiries and Marcelle own this beautiful shop, home, and store in a scenic part of Auckland.  They enjoy missionaries and treat us so well.  Marcelle gave us eggs from their chickens and delicious mango juice.  Considering eggs are $10 a dozen here, that is a true gift.

View some of their splendid Christmas ornaments.  They include carvings of the temple as so many missionaries request that special creation.  I especially like the Eternity knot.

Pah Homestead Art House.  This month celebrates Auckland art.  The spectacular park surrounding the 150-year-old mansion felt serene on this windy and cool spring day.

 

We visited the park, vintage art show and then listened to the local musicians sing of Auckland life and art.  He composes the pieces and sings the lead.  His wife accompanies him beautifully on the mandolin.  We enjoyed the show.

Panelbeaters.  Seems like a strange name for auto body repair.  Brelli is what we now call an umbrella and lollies are treats.  Our Primary serves lots and lots (too many) of lollies to the children every week.

 

Early morning rowing exercise for this boatful of women.  The peaceful scene on Takapuna Beach  and the calm waters create an ideal setting for a vigorous work-out.

Elder and Sister Castleton return home this week.  We enjoyed a tearful OGC counsel meeting online where we bid them farewell after recalling joyous memories with this fabulous couple.  They served well in Sydney, Australia.