Hidden Valley cycle

I had a great cycle this morning all the way up into Hidden Valley. When I left home, it was chilly and thick mist covered big parts of the mountains. I had a few brisks climbs and when I stopped at Overture restaurant in the foothills of Helderberg mountain, the mist was clearing and the sun started breaking through. I felt so close to God and just again realised the greatness of His creation.

Uva Mira

Me and Annelie visited a number of vineyards to taste Chardonnay this morning. We experienced excellent examples of this noble cultivar at Avontuur, Eikendal and Longridge. We then drive up all the way to the "vineyards with Altitute" to try and taste the award-winning Chardonnay at Uva Mira, but unfortunately it was not available for tasting. The drive up the foothills of the Helderberg was worthwhile nevertheless.

Early morning cycle ride

I cycled to the Strand this morning and back. The air was fresh. I enjoyed the smell of the sea as I cycled down the coastal road. Many people were already on the beach and I could see that today would turn into a wonderful day in the Cape.

I am so proud of Fundamo

Today as I left the office, I was so proud of the people working at Fundamo. We have had difficult times, but this week was such a good week. We first had the MTN announcement, and then the new appointments started clicking. People that left the company some time ago started coming back. I felt a sense of achievement with everyone at the office. As I drove out of the parking lot, I had to take a picture so that I can write a blog to thank the Lord for He has truely blessed us.

Western Union comes to Cape Town

Western Union is hosting their agents conference in Cape Town this year. I attended a few sessions in the huge auditorium at the Cape Convention Centre. I saw people from all over the world attending. I was told that more than 100 nations was represented at the conference. Two things struck me: The world-class infrastructure available at the Convention Centre. I have been to many venues in the past - few have the facilities and "touch and feel" that is available here in Cape Town. Secondly, I was once again impressed with what an amazing company Western Union is. The size, impact and heart of the company is truely mind-boggling.

Karachi Boat Club

I had a great lunch at the Karachi Boat Club with Imran, Owais and a guest. The food and services was great. The setting in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city was also very tranquil and beautiful.

Karachi Street

I am in Karachi for a few days. I made a presentation at Pakistan mCommerce conference and also visited a few clients and prospective clients. I always enjoy coming to Pakistan. I think it is the people that I like.

Argus Agony

I finished a grueling Argus race today in a time of 4:51:32 (15 min slower than last year), but I increased my overall position with almost 7 500. (down from 18 312th to 10 771st). Everyone that know rated this as the toughest race ever. The race was held in a raging South Easter wind with wind gusts of more than 100km/h. I was particularly proud of my son who also finished the race in a qualifying time with almost no training.

Woes get together

Annelie is an active contributor to the Woes website. I joined her tonight for a dinner with other contributor's in the Western Cape. The owner of the website, Willem Gouws (in picture with Annelie) was also there. We had a jolly time, talking and listening to poets and other artists.