Vereeniging?!?

I ventured an hour south of Joburg to go see Elisa who was visiting Africa on business. Although she was stuck in the middle of no where, she managed to see a cricket match and rugby game in town (no fair). We found some time to catch up over dinner and a bottle of The Chocolate Block (red wine which we both heard to be excellent). Well worth the drive.

A bit homesick.

I shared with my cell group last week how I've been a bit homesick. Dawn (who is Canadian) gave me her remedy for homesickness- A box of Kraft macaroni and cheese. Although my brother has historically been the fan of this food, I have to admit that it did brighten up my day. Thanks Dawn! I was able to share the mac and cheese with my friend Cheryl accompanied by barbeque chicken kebabs, veggies, and some nice white wine via candlelight while we observed Earth Hour.

Taxi trouble

I was driving North on the N3 highway this week when I heard on the radio to avoid the M1 highway (which also runs north-south). Taxi trouble. Most of the time, when referring to "taxis" here in SA, we speak about the combis that form the bulk of the public transportation system for the lower income population. Many of them travel from the townships to work and back via these taxis. Well, there was a taxi strike on Tuesday which means many people are unable to make it to work. Often these strikes are without violence however this week was different. A reality check that I AM in Africa... read more here.

http://www.mg.co.za/article/2009-03-24-taxi-commuters-stranded-amid-reports-of-violence

Here are some pictures of the standstill of taxis on the M1.

Some more time...

Due to the tough economic situation back in the U.S., it seems I will be staying a bit longer here in SA. That means more time for animal viewing, pinotage drinking, a bit of diving, and exploration of the African continent. OK, maybe I won't be here that long but you better believe I'm sure going to try to pack in all I can!

People watching...

While taking a breather from shopping last weekend, I sat for some yummy thai food and watched a group of African tribal dancers perform. While they were dancing to the beat of their drum, in "walks" a breakdancer on his hands bouncing to the same beat. Only in Africa...

Rain, Snow, Rain, some Sun, and more Rain...

I just got back from a 10 day trip to the States. A very tiring and draining trip but it was sure nice to finally go "home" after 8 months. Thanks to all my good good friends for making the trip (and my birthday) fabulous despite the weather. Here are a couple of shots of the (not so) lovely elements:

Snow in Minneapolis

Sun at the San Diego zoo

Looming rain flying into SF with the rain finally arriving!

To be honest, I really couldn't wait to come back to the South African summer.

Friends, Food, Birthday!

(Chelsea's awesome chocolate spice cake!)

Thanks to all my friends who made my bday one to remember!