Up for a Challenge

Iona travels to London with her husband Jeff to visit friends and colleagues and for Iona to appear on BBC1’s Sunday Morning Live on the 12th of March 2023.

Woke up to snow in London- how glorious - out for a walk in minus 2 – Jeff was eager for ice cream (it’s an Australian thing) whilst I played in the daffodils, and then wow! We saw King Charles leaving Buckingham Palace with his motor entourage – he didn’t wave!

Two telephone BBC calls to prepare for the Sunday Morning Live interview (at 48.05) – had six questions that I had to prepare answers for – in a six minute time limit. What a challenge. Need divine intervention. It came in the form of Jeffery. He played the interviewer and timed each answer over breakfast, lunch and dinner– over two days we edited and changed until I knew my lines inside out. I had this in the bag!!! With two days to go, I met Malcolm Down, my publisher, Jason Smith who helps with social media and web design and my little sister for afternoon tea at Claridges (obviously tea was replaced by Champagne) – a good visit for making memories. 

The night before my live interview the BBC Gary Lineker debate was hotting up and fellow presenters were walking out in support of his temporary move – could this jeopardise my interview!! An hour to go and the assistant BBC producer ran through questions and timed my answers – had to cut back on one answer – easy. I watched as the other guest came and went – one of the main topic was the immigrant debate – looked like it was an emotional one!  

Iona on Sunday Morning Live with Holly Hamilton

Microphone in place, sound check done. I sat next to the beautiful presenter Holly in a brightly lit studio. I had no idea my questions had changed and my time had been reduced. Holly introduced me – “Oh no these are my answers to some of the pre assigned questions” In my head I was saying “What the …….!!!!” But thankfully Jesus intervened and kept me focused and relaxed – I had three questions, all different. Then bang it finished “Thank you Iona” smiled Holly. I tried not to be surprised – was that it!! Immediately I knew that the debate probably had over run and my segment had been changed and reduced. But who cares – I was blessed I could share my story of how Jesus gave me a new start and also create awareness of my books. Plus being blond, Irish and adaptable I was up for the challenge.

Living in unexpected times helps when you “Let Go and Let God.”

Iona is on from 48.05