Zipline in Hermanus

When we asked Jim (Julia's grandfather), what he wanted to do while visiting us in South Africa, he indicated that he would like to do some zip-lining. We joined him for an excursion close to Hermanus, and while it was somewhat scary initially, it turned out to be a lot of fun in the end.

Family at Cape Point

We managed to get to Cape Point before the storm hit with Izak, Julia and her family visiting from the US. We saw the penguin colony at Boulders and then had a late lunch at Mariners Wharf. It was good fun and also a good opportunity to get to know each other better.

Heathrow en route

We arrived in Heathrow after a six hour drive by road from Pullman and then nine hours in a British Airways Boeing from Seattle. Me, Annelie, Ernst and his family, as well as the newly wed couple stepped off the plane, tired, not looking forward to the eight hour lay-over before the final leg to Cape Town.

My last son married

What a tremendous blessing to see my last son getting married to a radiant Julia. We witnessed a special ceremony by Jubal Croegaert emphasizing the holy institution of marriage. Afterwards there was celebrations till late. Me and Annelie went to bed knowing that this is the start of something very beautiful and very proud to now count Julia as our daughter.

Spitbraai rehearsal dinner

In the tradition of American weddings, guests get together for a dinner provided by the groom's family the night before. We decided to offer a South African rehearsal dinner for Izak, with a sheep on the spit, pap en sous and other dishes. In the end we had a wonderful time with a lot of new friends helping to turn and cut the lamb, braai-ing the boerewors and making the side dishes. Lots of memories to cherish.

Pinots of Oregon

How could one visit Portland and not go and investigate the Pinot's of Oregon. We drove the sixty minutes to Dundee and explored the wines at two cellars, realizing that we just do not have enough time. Now that I have seen the terroir, the unique pruning techniques and have tasted these Pinot Noir's (almost on par with Burgundy), I should make time to revisit and spend more time here.

Seattle to Portland

The Seatle to Portland Cycle Tour (known as the STP) is one of the most popular cycle events in the US. I managed to finish the 2014 event in very hot conditions, battling severe doubts that I could make it at some times. Annelie was at the finish line and I promised myself not to do this again.

Flight museum

It was a privilege to share my passion for flight with Arden at the museum of flight in Seattle. From MIC's, the Phantom, the SR-71 Blackbird to the wonders of space flight; we marveled at how humans conquered the air (and beyond). There is so many lessons here for life (from perseverance, innovation and the thrill of taking risks to meticulous dedication and science).

Mariners

Going to a Mariner's ball game while in Seattle is sort of important. We enjoyed our outing tremendously as we explained the game to the grand-children. Unfortunately, the Mariners lost the game, but we departed the stadium with good memories.

Salt Creek Bay

We drove through beautiful forest roads towards Neah Bay (the most north-west point of the US). The morning was misty and cool. We stopped at Salt Creek Bay and walked down to the sea-shore. The calm sea washed over mussel-encrusted rocks and one could hear a boat through the mist nearby. It was really special to share the moment with people close to me.

Leaving for Seattle

At the boarding gate with Annelie, Ernst, Catherine and the kids ready for our long journey to Seattle. It is great to see the two children so filled with excitement.

Storm on the way

Watched the start of the storm roll in at Sea Point this morning before the Entrepreneurs Traction Breakfast. I had an opportunity to have a brisk walk along the promenade and could see the pent-up energy expressed in the waves.

Solartech

The truck got branded today. Kevin and me are now officially in the Solar-energy business, bringing green solutions to the West Coast (from Milnerton northwards). Consider saving electricity (and the planet): install a solar hot water system from Solartech.

Afval in the pot

Annelie is cooking a local delicacy tonight: afval. Not everyone likes a sheep-head, paws and other sheep "throw-aways", but as the aromas of a freshly cooked dish start filling the house, I know that I am not one of them.