Monday, March 28, 2011

100 Trillion dollars

Frans's wife just returned from Zimbabwe and brought a crisp new note with: one and fourteen zeros Zim Dollars. Quite a collectors item I think, but worthless as a means of tender. I is really sad how the economy of this once prosperous country has been destroyed.

Sunday, March 27, 2011

St George's Cathedral

I attended a work session today at a hotel in Wale street across from the cathedral. I could not help thinking of the impact of events in this country that occurred behind the walls of this grand old building.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Fire in the Kogel mountains

We stayed at Meerenbosch on Saturday evening. The large fire was still smoldering in the mountains and the smell of smoke hung in the air. At night we could see large patches of red under the spectacular full moon that dominated the sky. We were woken early on Sunday by the choppers dousing the last remaining fires.

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Attending Mobile Commerce Pakistan

This is now the third Mobile Commerce conference in Karachi that I attend. I know most of the people on the panel this afternoon (including the chairman) and I enjoy the high level of discussion. Mobile banking has made major strides forward in Pakistan.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Mangroves in Karachi

One of the companies that I visited today had this fascinating view across the river. One could see the city in a distance and the harbour on the right, but right here in front of us was the river, with small mangrove filled islands.

Monday, March 14, 2011

My fourth Argus

I completed my 4th Argus with my brother in law. It was his 10th! I had a fast first 60 km, but then were forced to nurse my battered body home. My new Scott was a pleasure and I can feel that we will still do many a kilometer. The Cape played along this time with a perfect day.

Wednesday, March 09, 2011

Church service in the new Chapel

I attended the meditative service in the new chapel this Sunday. It was a special occasion for me, but I also experienced the blessings bestowed on our congregation.

Saturday, March 05, 2011

Wonderful time in Hong Kong

We had a great week in Hong Kong. Wonderful memories with Ernst, Catherine and Arden were created as we spent special times with them. We visited numerous markets, haggled to buy bargains and eat local food in local eateries. Contrary to what one would think, the surroundings also offered overgrown peaks and pristine little beaches. We enjoyed learning about the rich culture and the fascinating history. We will savour the seven days for a long time.