What a year it's been! 2009 has held a lot of joy and celebration for us at UCB as UCB UK went national on DAB, with sister stations UCB Inspirational and UCB Gospel now available in more DAB regions than ever before. For many, it means a choice of Christian stations when you turn on your radio. How exciting! We have much to thank and praise God for! Hooray!

It's been a big time of change for many, with the recession hitting hard, and the consequences of that impacting on our relationships, financial and job situations. I'm privileged to read your stories of encouragement as you've told us how the music and teaching on the radio has helped get you through the tough stuff. Of course, we know that it's not the presenters, musicians, singers or pastors themselves who bring about the change in circumstance. It's God, and only him who can truly bring a new hope and renewed strength when we strive. And for that, we give him the glory. I continue to be amazed how God uses ordinary people to do great things through him and for him.

So this is a time to be reflective, to look back on the year, and to take from it what we need to, leaving other experiences behind, embracing what is to come.

Here's to the best start of a new year, which i pray is fruitful, happy and full of God's blessing for you

Abi xx

Well, it's not even December and yet everyone and everything is decidedly Christmassy! This weekend many friends updated their Facebook status' with news of presents bought, decorations hung, and foodstuffs baked and ready for the eating! I couldn't believe we were lighting our first advent candle at church in November! Very strange, but it certainly is the start of the season.

For my part, I spent most of the weekend deliberating whether to put the decorations up or to leave it for another week! A bit of tidying got done, but sadly no decorations hung...yet

There's been a lot of evidence this year to suggest the recession has challenged people on the values they hold; many have spoken of re-thinking the amount they spend, and the amount they consume. Time spent with family and friends is also on the up with many acknowledging the worth of relationships and community; spending time not buying or doing, but simply 'being'. I think that's why decorating and celebrating have started earlier this year - people hungering not simply for pressies and treats, but real time with one another and the good stuff that brings too.

Abi x

Great stuff happening in the studios and on air these next 2 days. With our share-a-thon we're inviting you to stand with us and partner in UCB's future as UCB UK goes national on DAB radio from 1st December!

The donation line is 08456 300 111. Will you support us today?

I'm sat here writing my blog and all I can smell are washing up gloves! That's because a big box of cleaning goodies arrived in the UCB reception today. I say 'cleaning goodies' and I imagine that sounds like a contradiction in terms! Cleaning is not everybody’s first idea of fun but you can’t beat the satisfaction of a house that smells of polish, all clean and airy! Aaaaaaaahhhhhhhh, well, anyway enough about cleaning!  

Hope you’re enjoying the summer, rain or shine! September is just around the corner and before it ends I’ll have been to 3 more weddings! (The spread of love is clearly giving swine flu a run for its money)  

I’ll have to think of digging out an outfit or skirting the sales for a bargain to wear to these nuptials because the last 2 weddings I attended were: my own (!), and my friend’s (and I was one of her bridesmaids!) On the plus side I’ve come out with 2 very gorgeous dresses to cherish, but they’re not very ‘recyclable’ when it comes to other people’s Big Day!! Hmmmmm…