I have personally thanked Christine but would now like to openly thank her for suggesting to the NZCDG Inc Judges that they use the grid. system when marking the National Conference Flower Competition, especially when there is a large number of extremely similar entries to be judged. I agree that this system, makes for a more precise and faster result. My prayers and thoughts are with Alan and the Family.

We were all farm kids growing up and when your family moved to Otorohanga the visits between our families became very frequent, after all Christine's mother and my father were twins. We all loved exploring each other's family farms and when Christine's parents decided to sell up and semi retire to Tauranga we inherited Christine's horse Shylo, what a treat that was having our own horse, we rode Shylo for many years although a saddle was out of the question so we all rode Shylo bare back and certainly learnt a few lessons on how to successfully stay on his back. All those great early times are enjoyable memories spent with Christine.

Christine and Alan were our neighbours, and on the very first Friday in our new home, they invited us over for drinks and nibbles along with another neighbouring couple. What followed was years of sharing surplus food, laughs, serious conversations, and wine tasting - Alan's and mine. Christine made us welcome as we stayed in their downstairs flat for a time, and I was continuously amazed at her skill with sugar craft floral work. From Alan there were gardening tips, wisdom, worms and seedlings, and help with practical and engineering help. We missed their company and visits from their grandchildren when we moved to a different property. You will be incredibly missed by your family and close friends, Christine. Thank you for your friendship and generosity.