Next generation

Twenty years ago, I was the skipper of a boat on these waters when my sons learned to waterski. Today, I held my grand-daughter as my son skippered another boat on these waters.

Christmas kids

In a quiet Christmas, with much to think about, it was such a privilege to see the joy in the faces of my grandchildren. As grownups we have learned to block this joy by embracing our small worries.

Painting again

I started painting again, using acrylic paints to do landscapes. It felt good to give my imperfect efforts as Christmas presents as it meant something different than to buying something.

First print ready copy

I received the second print-ready copy of the book during the week-end. I now have IBSN numbers, the photo section is almost complete and we are making small tweaks to the content. It is great to see a project coming to fruition and I am super excited.

Seaswim

There was more than ten swimmers that did the 2000 meter (depending on how straight you swim) to the harbour wall and back. I am starting to enjoy this new pastime of mine, especially in wonderful conditions like this morning.

Unemployed

It is two days before Christmas and I counted more than a hundred people standing at this intersection looking for a job that might pay $20. There is something seriously wrong and I just wonder what I can do (rather than criticizing).

Rooi-els and back

It does not matter how many times you cycle from Somerset West to Rooiels and back, the beauty is always new and fresh. This morning was no different as I tried to keep up with a group of WannaBees that were clearly more fit than I was.

Pork parmigiana

Pork Parmigiana in true New York style, garnished with fresh basil from the herb garden. The chillies and lemon mixed with the breadcrumbs combined to produce the perfect dish. Often my cooking produces average dishes at best, but sometimes things just combine to create magic.

Starwars fever

Some came dressed for the occasion, others carried their lightsabers to the event. The theatre was totally full on opening night for the latest Starwars epic. It was a great experience to see the Force awaken in 3D and to hear the audience gasp at the old stars making their appearance and coming to life.

Braai with a view

A beer in the hand, a lake in the front (with a flock of flamingos), the mountains at the back and a the coals in the braai getting ready. I would call this a braai with a view.

Open water wet suit

I swam my first open water wet-suit swim today in perfect conditions at Gordonsbay early this morning. It was a wonderful experience. Thanks to the experienced swimmers who encouraged me.

Corporate Startups

Corporates and Startups are fundamentally different from the enterprise's objectives to the shoes of the CEO's. Yet there is much potential benefit in finding some mechanism to a happy co-existence between the two. The one can help the other in different ways. That is why Zach and his team must be congratulated on how they managed to show that these two animals can actually operate on the same stage at Africa Rise at the Barn today.

Up Clarence drive

A quick cycle to the top of Clarence drive, with the majestic mountain on the left and a crystal clear ocean on my right, I was struck by the greatness of creation. On my way back, I saw a crew shooting a movie from two boats on the flat sea.

Zoe church

I visited the Home of Compassion ministries in Delft with a friend. We were welcomed with a smile and shown so many inspirational projects: from feeding schemes to career education. All of this underpinned by a clear foundation of love and confidence.

99 Hits

The name of the show is 99 hits and as is usual, it was an extravaganza of music, lighting and costumes. It was good to experience it with friends... but somehow it felt incomplete.

A lot of wine-glasses

Another farewell dinner for ex-Fundamo staff: this time for Aletha and Susan. As usual there was little space on the table except for many wine-glasses. The sad thing is that we are running out of people to say goodbye to.

Italian pleasure

Guiseppe prepares wholesome, Italian food at home and then spoils large groups with his food and his stories. It is special people like this (that can be found throughout the Mother City) that makes Cape Town unique in its make-up.

Last Wannabee race

I enjoyed finishing the Stellenbosch Cycle Race in an acceptable time, notwithstanding the heat. Afterwards, as I loaded my cycle I felt a bit melancholic as I realized that this may be the last race in the old Wannabee colors.