Last week we put two swings up on the property. One is a rope swing that faces the river while Mafundo is shown here demonstrating the “In” “out” pumping action on the “little people” swing. Both are very popular.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
So sleepy
Mafundo is still getting plenty of rest. He really knocks out around 5 or 5:30 when we have our ½ long Bible story. He rarely makes it through this and when I had my camera in my pocket, I couldn’t help snap a quick one.South African Safari
On Monday, Eli and I got up close with the wildlife here in South Africa. Just about 20 minutes away from our house is a small game reserve that has rhino, giraffe, water buffalo, kudu, zebra and tons of other wild deer type animals. There is a dam in the middle of the park with rolling hills surrounding the peaceful water. One way to see the animals is from the inside of a car on roads that go throughout 
the park. BORING! We chose the much cooler alternative of a horseback tour, off road to get up close to the animals. Let me just say it was an amazing experience. We went with JD, Mara, and their relative from Connecticut that was visiting for a few days.
We saddled up and we each got acquainted with our own horse. “Muffin” was my great steed. Don’t let the name fool you. Muffin would never be at the back of the pack and was always willing to blaze her
own trail through the brush. She was obedient and loyal and I couldn’t have asked for a better horse.
At first Eli was slightly disappointed with “Sadie” Sadie wasn’t much to look at, and he was holding out for a more noble ride like “Warrior” or “Muchacho” but our guide brought her out and was set on having Eli ride her. Throughout the day Eli grew closer with Sadie and began whispering sweet nothings into her ears and by the end of the day they were inseparable. It was only when we were leaving that we noticed that “Sadie” was not very lady-like at
all. In fact it was quite clear that “she” was a “He” Eli was devastated that he had been mistaken the whole ride, but their bond will always remain.
Ok, if you are still reading: I must tell you that we got incredibly close to some of the most amazing creatures on this earth. The giraffes were by far the coolest. I think the best part was watching them run through the bush. It felt like a time warp where everything was slowed down. They are so graceful and majestic. Their freedom and physique was truly inspiring.
After a day in the bush, we returned home with sore butts and aching backs but I would do it again in a heart beat.
the park. BORING! We chose the much cooler alternative of a horseback tour, off road to get up close to the animals. Let me just say it was an amazing experience. We went with JD, Mara, and their relative from Connecticut that was visiting for a few days.We saddled up and we each got acquainted with our own horse. “Muffin” was my great steed. Don’t let the name fool you. Muffin would never be at the back of the pack and was always willing to blaze her
own trail through the brush. She was obedient and loyal and I couldn’t have asked for a better horse.At first Eli was slightly disappointed with “Sadie” Sadie wasn’t much to look at, and he was holding out for a more noble ride like “Warrior” or “Muchacho” but our guide brought her out and was set on having Eli ride her. Throughout the day Eli grew closer with Sadie and began whispering sweet nothings into her ears and by the end of the day they were inseparable. It was only when we were leaving that we noticed that “Sadie” was not very lady-like at
all. In fact it was quite clear that “she” was a “He” Eli was devastated that he had been mistaken the whole ride, but their bond will always remain.Ok, if you are still reading: I must tell you that we got incredibly close to some of the most amazing creatures on this earth. The giraffes were by far the coolest. I think the best part was watching them run through the bush. It felt like a time warp where everything was slowed down. They are so graceful and majestic. Their freedom and physique was truly inspiring.
After a day in the bush, we returned home with sore butts and aching backs but I would do it again in a heart beat.
Monday, November 17, 2008
New Friend
I found this guy and was amazed at the colors and patterns. God didnt miss a single opportunity to amaze us when he created this guy. (Just keep him out of my bed)Honored Guests
On Thursday we were the honored guests at the schools “prize giving day” We heard there would be some speeches, some dancing, some music and most importantly good food. When we first got there, things were already under way. First we were ushered into a small room
off to the side of the main events. We sat down and were served generous portions of cow intestine. WHAT? Who said “good food” oh man, but of course we did our best to try this strange flab. There are no words to describe this food. If you can call it that. I will just highlight the worst part: the texture. Hairy, slimy, chewey and gooey all at the same time. But mostly hairy. Yup it was bad.
After that, things didn’t get much better. We sat through 5 hours of ceremony. No joke it was never ending. The good thing was that
the kids at the cottages made a pretty good appearance and there was a lot of screaming and yelling from the moms. Just as we were about to slip out, which would have been hard because we were seated at the very front, the kids told us that it was time for the final announcements.
Whewh, we made it! After our marathon day, we were rewarded with a true feast of chicken, beef, beets, yams, salad, bean dishes, fried chicken and soda. Yumm… that made it all worth it.
off to the side of the main events. We sat down and were served generous portions of cow intestine. WHAT? Who said “good food” oh man, but of course we did our best to try this strange flab. There are no words to describe this food. If you can call it that. I will just highlight the worst part: the texture. Hairy, slimy, chewey and gooey all at the same time. But mostly hairy. Yup it was bad.After that, things didn’t get much better. We sat through 5 hours of ceremony. No joke it was never ending. The good thing was that
the kids at the cottages made a pretty good appearance and there was a lot of screaming and yelling from the moms. Just as we were about to slip out, which would have been hard because we were seated at the very front, the kids told us that it was time for the final announcements.Whewh, we made it! After our marathon day, we were rewarded with a true feast of chicken, beef, beets, yams, salad, bean dishes, fried chicken and soda. Yumm… that made it all worth it.
Headline: Borgmans Caught standing still!
This is the Borgman family and yes, they are standing still! They move so fast they even tire me our! It has been so much fun working along side with them at the Cottages. This family is involved in many different community building projects and it has been neat to help out where we can. The whole family is blessed with amazing culinary skills which offers a nice respite from the menu at the cottages.
Marah has recently been recruited from the states as "administrative assitant." She has helped bring some order to the madness and has kept us nice and plump with her delicious food.
Durban!
Last weekend we had a blast visiting some friends in Durban. After 3 different taxi rides, and one hitch (sorry mum) we arrived at one of the neatest hostels we have ever been to. It is run by a family of pro surfers that grew up in the Durban area. The place has a neat surfer vibe with boards for sale and boards for rent. Of course, I must mention the price. 10 dollars each for a private room. Pretty sweet with ocean views.
After one night there we met up with our friend Jesse who lives in Durban. His wife is doing an internship in Geneva so he had some time to hang out with us. The first thing that we did was look for surfboards. They are very cheap compared to the states and much better than renting. We met up with Jesse’s friend Cliff who took us around to the shapers showrooms and even met some of the local shapers who shape boards for surfers all over the world. We found two boards that will be great for us and where a steal of a deal.
With our new surfboards, of course the next logical thing to do is…. Go surfing! It was kinda drizzling, but the water was warm and we had a great day in the water.
We were feeling truly South African after watching SA take on Whales in ruby and a Manchester United vs. Arsenal soccer match. We quickly learned how to cheer correctly when watching rugby and when to get furiously angry with the refs.
The day we left, the clouds finally lifted and it was bright and sunny. Oh, well we still had a great time with friends and a nice little break from our busy time at the Cottages.
After one night there we met up with our friend Jesse who lives in Durban. His wife is doing an internship in Geneva so he had some time to hang out with us. The first thing that we did was look for surfboards. They are very cheap compared to the states and much better than renting. We met up with Jesse’s friend Cliff who took us around to the shapers showrooms and even met some of the local shapers who shape boards for surfers all over the world. We found two boards that will be great for us and where a steal of a deal.
With our new surfboards, of course the next logical thing to do is…. Go surfing! It was kinda drizzling, but the water was warm and we had a great day in the water.
We were feeling truly South African after watching SA take on Whales in ruby and a Manchester United vs. Arsenal soccer match. We quickly learned how to cheer correctly when watching rugby and when to get furiously angry with the refs.
The day we left, the clouds finally lifted and it was bright and sunny. Oh, well we still had a great time with friends and a nice little break from our busy time at the Cottages.
Music in the Mountains
The Drakensburg Boys choir is world renowed for the vocal performance and excellence. The school is only about 20 minutes away from where we live and we finally got to see what they are all about at one of their Wed afternoon concerts.
The first half was more standard choral pieces that is very formal with a conductor, funny suits, and the works.
The second half was entirely led by the students, with all the music being African. They had tons of energy and great choreography.
The free tea and pastries that were served at Half time only made the event that much more special.
Eli snuck away before the concert to loosen up his high soprano in the case that they might invite all former boy's choir members on stage to join them in song. It didnt happen. Bummer.
I forgot my camera, so I had to snag a photo from the internet. Sorry for not getting the "real deal"
Listen to them sing!
Champion Sleeper (advanced level)
Mafundo is always coming up with great new napping places. The newest ones are:
1: The steps of our room
2: Water drainage sink
Monday, November 3, 2008
Late birthday delivery..
Sunday was Eli's birthday, and after a day of activity, we finally settled into our room for some rest. Not long after we started to unwind, we heard a tentative knock on our door. Upon opening it, we found 4 boys beaming with anticipation. All at the same time, they thrust their birthday presents at Eli. First was a weed. (Complete with roots) The second was a very decorative platic ivy leaf. The third was a less decorative, but still plastic ivy leave. The fourth present was the real winner. It was a well loved little nylon bag with "happy" printed on it. Inside were at least 6 gravel rocks of varying size and shape.
The boys were so proud of themselves and beamed with contentment. We were getting ready to do our work-out plan (pushups and situps) so we invited them in to join us. After our little workout it was the perfect time for a muscle shot with all the boys.
Travel like a local
Taxi:
The great think about not having wheels, is that we live more like black South Africans than White South Africans. When I am done with the computer, like every monday we will hop on a 30 min taxi ride to take us back home, an experience that hardly any white people living here have had. It is seriously one of my favorite things. One of the best things is that there are NO signs or organization at the bus depot. You have to ask the driver: "Where are you going today" and then hop on the right one. Once you are on the right bus it is wise to sit by the window. First, the obvious reason is the escape from the stiffling air in the bus. Secondly (and more importantly) is the window seat is a prime place to do some last minute shopping. Vendors will crowd around the busses offering anything from chips, to tomatoes, to fruit, cigarettes, jewely and anything else that you forgot to buy. By far the most ingenious item for sale are these little frozen guava juice packets. For 25cents you get the ice pack, sweet treat combo.
Nothing better than sitting back nursing a frozen guava juice packet and rocking out to African tunes as the landscape goes whizzing by.
"Hitching"
Out where we live there are only several taxies that wont budge until they are packed full. (This could take quite a long time) The other alternative is flagging down any car that might be willing to pick you up.
Satuday was Eli's birthday and we were treated by the Sheldons to a feast at the nearest restaurant. We walked out to the main road, hoping that a taxi would soon roll by to pick us up. Our stomachs were growling and we could almost smell the pizza so we decided to try to flag down the next car. After several failed attempts, a delivery truck stopped to pick us up. We had a neat chat with the black driver and he was able to drop us off right by the restaurant.
So... the restaurant is located in the middle of no where. Most of the patrons are white, with some Middle Eastern ones as well. EVERYONE that goes to this posh place pulls up in their own rig either out for the day touring, or visiting from Joburg or Druban. The best thing ever was the look on the faces of people when they saw us hopping out of this delivery truck waving goodbye to our new friend. Totally priceless.
After we were done with our meal (which was delicious, thank you Sheldons! 18 bucks got us: a drink with dinner, two entrees, dessert, and after dinner coffee (for both of us, pulus tip) Back to hitching home. We were soon picked up by a white guy and hopped in the back of the truck. We told him where we lived and he seemed a little skeptical that we knew what we were talking about. He stopped at the place we told him to and again he seemed confused and asked us if we were SURE that this is where we wanted to be dropped off.
We are for sure the only white people in the area and it is pretty unheard of for two white guys to be living in this area. We thanked him for the ride and he drove off... still looking pretty confused.
The great think about not having wheels, is that we live more like black South Africans than White South Africans. When I am done with the computer, like every monday we will hop on a 30 min taxi ride to take us back home, an experience that hardly any white people living here have had. It is seriously one of my favorite things. One of the best things is that there are NO signs or organization at the bus depot. You have to ask the driver: "Where are you going today" and then hop on the right one. Once you are on the right bus it is wise to sit by the window. First, the obvious reason is the escape from the stiffling air in the bus. Secondly (and more importantly) is the window seat is a prime place to do some last minute shopping. Vendors will crowd around the busses offering anything from chips, to tomatoes, to fruit, cigarettes, jewely and anything else that you forgot to buy. By far the most ingenious item for sale are these little frozen guava juice packets. For 25cents you get the ice pack, sweet treat combo.
Nothing better than sitting back nursing a frozen guava juice packet and rocking out to African tunes as the landscape goes whizzing by.
"Hitching"
Out where we live there are only several taxies that wont budge until they are packed full. (This could take quite a long time) The other alternative is flagging down any car that might be willing to pick you up.
Satuday was Eli's birthday and we were treated by the Sheldons to a feast at the nearest restaurant. We walked out to the main road, hoping that a taxi would soon roll by to pick us up. Our stomachs were growling and we could almost smell the pizza so we decided to try to flag down the next car. After several failed attempts, a delivery truck stopped to pick us up. We had a neat chat with the black driver and he was able to drop us off right by the restaurant.
So... the restaurant is located in the middle of no where. Most of the patrons are white, with some Middle Eastern ones as well. EVERYONE that goes to this posh place pulls up in their own rig either out for the day touring, or visiting from Joburg or Druban. The best thing ever was the look on the faces of people when they saw us hopping out of this delivery truck waving goodbye to our new friend. Totally priceless.
After we were done with our meal (which was delicious, thank you Sheldons! 18 bucks got us: a drink with dinner, two entrees, dessert, and after dinner coffee (for both of us, pulus tip) Back to hitching home. We were soon picked up by a white guy and hopped in the back of the truck. We told him where we lived and he seemed a little skeptical that we knew what we were talking about. He stopped at the place we told him to and again he seemed confused and asked us if we were SURE that this is where we wanted to be dropped off.
We are for sure the only white people in the area and it is pretty unheard of for two white guys to be living in this area. We thanked him for the ride and he drove off... still looking pretty confused.
D.A.T.T.
"Tutoring time" was way to blann for our style, so we cleverly created an excitign acronym to entice the children.
Discovery And Tutoring Time. DATT. perfect. We do "DATT" (get it) Mon-Thurs from 3-5.
We start with a craft, then story time, then a game and activities. The kids love it and want to do on Fri, Sat, Sun too!
We just had a Dutch carpenter volunteer his time to make 2 tables and 8 benches for DATT. He dropped them off yesterday and they look GREAT!
Pretty neat stuff.
Foot Locker: SA Style:
Thank you Udell family: Our shoe supplier!!!
Last week we had the moms at the cottages come into our room and choose shoes for their kids. We ending up bringing about 30 pairs of shoes, and all but one pair ended up with an owner. It was truly amazing. The sizes were perfect and the moms had a blast "shopping" for their kids. There were even shoes that the moms could use.
Later that night we had kids coming up to us to show off their new shoes.
The orphanage gets so many things donated that these kids look sharp compared to the other kids in the community. It has been awesome to see donations being used first hand and the joy that it brings to the kids. If you currently donate all your gently used goods.... Great! For those that think it doesnt make a difference....boooooo
Last week we had the moms at the cottages come into our room and choose shoes for their kids. We ending up bringing about 30 pairs of shoes, and all but one pair ended up with an owner. It was truly amazing. The sizes were perfect and the moms had a blast "shopping" for their kids. There were even shoes that the moms could use.
Later that night we had kids coming up to us to show off their new shoes.
The orphanage gets so many things donated that these kids look sharp compared to the other kids in the community. It has been awesome to see donations being used first hand and the joy that it brings to the kids. If you currently donate all your gently used goods.... Great! For those that think it doesnt make a difference....boooooo
Goat Herding in SA
Animals here roam freely. At any one point of time, we could have dogs, goats, and a herd of cattle wandering around the cottages poking their heads in the bathrooms, and eating all our plants. The fence around the property has numerous gaps and even if it didn't, the gate is left open most parts of the day. Anyway, these intruders were getting on my nerve a little bit (it is not fun dodging cow poo on your way to the bathroom in the middle of the night) UNTIL a mama goat and her 2 super cute baby goats started making appearances. Forget about the mama, she is not important, but her 2 baby goats! Whowii! They are adorable. The kids that stay home love to chase them and sometimes they get lucky and catch them. Me on the other hand am much more succesful and usually end up with a baby goat around my neck getting scoffed at by Eli. I am sure that secretly he too thinks they are adorable but thus far has been reluctant to admit it.
Just another little thing that brings joy into my life here at The Cottages
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