Marion Hippensteel

Something people don't know about you is …?

I'm a legal immigrant, born in Quinsigamond (Massachusetts) - American Indian name, currently living in East Kurrajong-Australian Aboriginal name. Love Australia and Australians-would like to adopt Pat Rafter and/or Lleyton Hewitt!

What are you currently reading?

My NIV for Bible Study. I'm not a cover-to-cover fiction reader, but do enjoy periodicals, essays and historical reference books on arts and crafts, particularly 'The Gentle Arts', a collection of 200 years of Australian women's domestic and decorative arts, a real treasure trove.

Your first paying job was …?

An after school job as a part time Christmas sales clerk , at age 16. I was posted to the men's pyjama and underwear section. My most valuable contribution to their sales figures was when I sold several pairs of what I thought were reasonably priced pyjamas-but later turned out to be nightshirts.

Your favourite TV show is …? Why?

Detective or cop shows, documentaries- for no reason, except escapism.

If you could be anything (occupation) what would you be?

The world's most famous fashion designer-my childhood dream-but I'm happy with what God has done with me anyway.

An embarrassing thing that has happened to you is …?

Two girlfriends and I were spending our first vacation (from our first fulltime jobs) at a place on Cape Cod. I had a few friends working there for the summer and it seemed like a good idea-also cheap. At the end of the day everyone rushed back from the beach to shower for dinner, but I was a bit slow claiming the shower just about the time the water was running low (I suspect it was a tank system). I managed to get a small burst of water, then nothing. But while I was wet it seemed sensible to 'soap' myself down until the water came on. Several minutes passed, the final dinner bell rang and there I was, covered in a fine mix of sand, salt and soap, by now all dried. I got dressed and appeared at the dining room-Miss Palmolive-to join my clean and shiny mates. The reception was hilarious, but I at least made it for dinner even if I felt like - a turtle!

Who inspires you?

It would have to be Jesus, first of all. Also Martin Luther, Billy Graham and all Christian Missionaries

If you could do one thing in heaven that you do on earth, what would it be?

Be there with Ron, my husband, confidant, best friend and all-round good bloke.