tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42607952855189317382024-03-22T04:47:43.880+02:00Fourie World TourTravel Journal of the Fourie Family from Namibia, Africa, as they travel around the world.Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-76065089314746683202009-11-16T15:31:00.007+02:002009-11-18T06:44:08.999+02:00Grand Finale 14 Sept-1 Okt 2009 (Dawie J)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbM75oEp27Bf5TNsRhuZFKtWOhsTkxXKlMyKR0hey2tpVNkZfTZcasZUmaB9ANeWVK2gjrysiVYfjBtoEfH7mtLh4WsXr9VYTPe_abYPNeOFBUK0gbvsXHn7vJQ2MQ7b8djUcBXD6o0GA/s1600/IMG_3834+(600x800).jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWX0_Khittm_sIGT1aA-RnmFkwJjdya-MdVH214JfdxFf1g9bWC_zoSa26cWJ5IeEYTQTTKdz7K-uu4dCU6QqSIPUkZW29a1hluYKlkohIFJYVMCwVqtvVul9VqNsav25I0sSSdPDeu9P/s1600/IMG_3694+(600x800).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWX0_Khittm_sIGT1aA-RnmFkwJjdya-MdVH214JfdxFf1g9bWC_zoSa26cWJ5IeEYTQTTKdz7K-uu4dCU6QqSIPUkZW29a1hluYKlkohIFJYVMCwVqtvVul9VqNsav25I0sSSdPDeu9P/s400/IMG_3694+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405298527282874034" /></a><br /><span xmlns=""><p>Italy was really the grand finale. We stayed in a lovely old house that is 800 years old. The walls are 1 meter thick.Except for the car crash, it was wonderful.<br /></p><p>One day we went to Pisa and saw the leaning tower. it is really leaning a lot – it is amazing that it is still standing! </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbM75oEp27Bf5TNsRhuZFKtWOhsTkxXKlMyKR0hey2tpVNkZfTZcasZUmaB9ANeWVK2gjrysiVYfjBtoEfH7mtLh4WsXr9VYTPe_abYPNeOFBUK0gbvsXHn7vJQ2MQ7b8djUcBXD6o0GA/s400/IMG_3834+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405298531936705634" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We also went to Firenze with the train. The cathedrals in Italy are definitely the most spectacular. There is one very beautiful one in Firenze.<br /></p><p>Our 3<sup>rd</sup> excursion was to Rome. We entered the Vatican city with out passports! We not only did not need them, but we also did not have them with us – which we found out later is against the Italian law. But God protected us from policemen asking us for identification.<br /></p><p>There were thousands of people at the Trevi Fountains and the Spanish steps. We ate ice cream at the Steps. It was a special treat! The Spanish steps were built from earthquake rubble from the Colloseum.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4g7187x_UMzzq0EOmPA0HKwBkEHhiDIimHbrV8kU-EbIKT6Pj9Ovdi-O1awazLQOXO7DoxjkHZSVrQsymc1WacE-F0upqbPS_m1v1z2LHcW4KVMtMigwdQMgTHnTGWAxYTa6AtVJdY_GJ/s400/IMG_4030+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405298537932499666" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>The Colloseum was something else. It is huge. It was built from the money of all the things that they took from the Jerusalem Temple – the one that Solomon built. It is so sick that it was built for an entertainment place where people can look while others die, either fighting other Gladiators or wild animals. It is a privilege that we as Christians do not have to face what those Christians had to face!</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_HNWxp5RKIKuG9XEX-P9SftxIOMow5vi4C6Fpt3_A6OfdnTghMXS5hOpeWHlqzzGXPq2Tv9pfBfhAkrvCrlUlW20Dhrn223xhJL5c4atLvoG-nwhR9lpcY8u5BPq1XkKQ7e1uB1JHd1FD/s400/IMG_4156+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405298538160594370" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>The next day on 29 Sept., was my 10<sup>th</sup> birthday. It was a wonderful day of rest – we did not work at all! We had eggs and bacon for breakfast – each had 1 egg on his own to enjoy! For lunch we had a braai and paella for the evening. This was exactly what I've wished for. I also received nice gifts.<br /></p><p>Then it was time to pack and clean for the last time. I was sad to leave. I felt sooo emotional!<br /></p><p>Italy was really a grand finale!</p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-48901132380343742122009-11-16T15:30:00.006+02:002009-11-18T06:57:52.666+02:00Dawie’s birthday – 29/09/99 (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: left;">Ten years ago, God brought this baby boy into our lives. What a glorious day!</div><span xmlns=""><p>We celebrated Dawie J's 10<sup>th</sup> birthday high in the mountains of north Italy, in the small town of Lanciole. It was quite shocking realizing that "our baby" is leaving the single numbers behind – he is entering the teen years! But luckily he is still my little boy. I must say that he has proven himself as being an equally important member of our Fourie-team, really pulling his weight in all the different responsibilities that he had to take on this year. Another tap on the shoulder for him, is the special way that he has toured around the world with 4 adults as only companions. We did "adult things" and he just went along, walked hundreds of miles and never complained. He played alone for many hours (while we were working and his schoolwork is done) and accepted any one of us as a playmate whenever we joined him. Yes, he is my little 10 year old boy, but he is already growing into a special young man!<br /></p><p>The day was, on his request, a day of rest at home. We did not work and did not go anywhere – that is what he has wished for! We started the day by singing our birthday song - again in 4 melodies, and clapped 10 claps! WOW! Then we had breakfast, a very special one. We had toast and eggs. There were 5 eggs, which meant that I could make a fried egg for every one(not the scrambled eggs where 3 must feed 5!) After breakfast we sat outside, looking out over the mountains and gave presents. </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyA5n67LcaL9dV71NH8sWCrF9LG4LyAdXy2GHxDW8wD8YXiuWy3twwCVFKa8ClBMkfWl31SP0S-6iimO7WeUmlO4S8eDWAJNKH56qsI5yJmxRO5jOK0j5uhXBKYbi4SRiFTD354wUsj5WU/s400/IMG_4344+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405300792460247730" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>Dawie was so glad and relieved that he did get presents. He wrapped a gift and wrote a card for himself, coming from his imaginary friend, Ben, because he was afraid that none of us would have bought a gift! He loved the Italy soccer shirt, small gladiator and home made cards that we gave him. I once again realized that living on a small budget, makes you appreciate even the smallest things just so much more. May we keep on appreciating all things when we are back home, where things are cheaper and where our budget is bigger.<br /></p><p>Then we played a game of Siedler. Dawie and Tinus created the playboard in the form of Italy and Dawie won – fare and square. </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMbJ82MrtTTbVldu67ouCeTvrAmrJ-yKuCQDNYMlt1Z-DjPtTUxpQ98eqGUg1tqvGipmL2NpmDJrInF9D7SstuhsEQ0zn_aAnN04gFw41jxAKJP50q96dek58lm57FGk6aPaOSxPbDW08/s400/IMG_4360+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405300795543742370" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>Dawie asked for a barbeque on his birthday and that is what we did – a real Namibian braai , although we had only charcoal and not wood. We enjoyed the wonderful weather, the pork rib and potatoes. And we had ice cream for dessert!</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfSLxi7gLwc5d6yawiufWq4byy_OGVB8s_z93wycOvZi2Z9PNqQ6bbWT1QS2AcrWYcuIavPfKtarfGu4qg9JUiIMqdZ9k0dDzTukC4kioFnwYIleaG4YaMso6DHud-On-tZjrPOEC2ORU/s400/IMG_4361+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405300801514998850" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>During the afternoon, Dawie gave the 4 of us "permission" to work, while he played along. The evening meal was yet another request. We made paella, a big pot of it and we celebrated once more.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWBaBAKRVfzDmuGw08PPbTu2Ho8hYXrC1EYyE8i9KyRuScrp6-lUVb_tUZzC2unIsZqUJJ3Q_idSr0lPaQ53iFCCj-vf0gUGw4BsJDb_NxycXOa7O072hupLj8Xls8UOXRlLUbceq0eX9E/s400/IMG_4363+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405300798578603122" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>This was the first time in the 9 months that we did not empty the pot and even Charlie said that he had enough, he is completely satisfied (that's a nice word for full). I was overjoyed and stunned at the same time. It has happened – my men were on a 10/10 after a meal!</p><p>We did not even eat the chocolate cake that I had baked for the birthday. We wisely left it for the next day, when we knew that we will be back on normal small portions, still feeling hungry after the meal and it gave us yet another opputunity to celebrate Dawie's birthday.<br /></p><p>We ended this glorious day of celebrating and rest in prayer. It is our family tradition to, as a family, but individually pray for God's blessings upon the birthday boy. And that is what we did. We know that God heard and that all His richest blessings will be with Dawie for many years to come. May he be an obedient soldier in God's army and fulfill the dreams that God has for him.<br /></p><p>Happy birthday Dawie! We love you!</p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-44364295561832786542009-11-16T12:40:00.002+02:002009-11-18T07:04:18.141+02:00Wat ek geleer het in 2009 (Dawie J)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqRMqUu8G7DinNC2jphiAfA6kaan7_tl2o7JVSdwy300PdylC_f2ASRTICZVErXqCgVtgfySSp6AcBfS-D5u9M40kdyxIiO7sKXlOG3QR-DKbgk58T9fLaLqqjkODXfLxHVWa2QAPJ5SX/s1600/IMG_5935+(600x800).jpg"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqRMqUu8G7DinNC2jphiAfA6kaan7_tl2o7JVSdwy300PdylC_f2ASRTICZVErXqCgVtgfySSp6AcBfS-D5u9M40kdyxIiO7sKXlOG3QR-DKbgk58T9fLaLqqjkODXfLxHVWa2QAPJ5SX/s400/IMG_5935+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405304450306287378" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8v9fOfHNHx8ivQmXYUrvol2-T167XfFAsXrCb5szvuIcjSlHEXQzmx36t2BwkEjkNv9rBykDBO4Xc05kUS_BYqM_LiS6UQRj-BntcUQsEHFUU-zCsmXl2awwkL1gsl-tR8Mfbm3Eus5h/s1600/IMG_5502+(800x600).jpg"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh914ufdie4mcilImLBpINpXFqjUEJusk0R5xia2DYO8bNPFry1Uv3MfqGRLECrN5zmRQ2ROy-dw1O1D1MqHSTy6pGN06zK0n-3Mpi03_MLwiEnMYlKFIZo1eCOYxFrr1kM8QKDETBTd9BF/s1600/IMG_3030+(800x600).jpg"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIQmWGq04kIT-ZNrJV2J7uMNPyJN8OIdOwP4bBxRwkAPIqJC69skPDfOmcEmTFJkVE35Dy7JBBqsqLMf2kMIi6tJmltt2L-73XLWEAlYXH00aWxPXLSJRofMDKlY6YwL2g1qLr1o2zCQU/s1600/IMG_2726+(800x600).jpg"><br /></a></div><span xmlns=""><h3>Algemeen<br /></h3><p>-Dat God is kreatief, want elke paar km waar jy is,<br /></p><p> is dit anders en net 'n paar voorbeelde van plekke wat<br /></p><p> baie anders is, die Grand Canyon, die Niagra Falls,<br /></p><p> die Alpe, die Namibiese oop velde.<br /></p><p>-En teamwork makes the dream work<br /></p><p> en ek het my weight gepull, nie net met die tas wat<br /></p><p> ek gesleep het wat dieselfde as ek geweeg het nie,<br /></p><p>maar ook met al die gunsies wat ek gedoen het.<br /></p><h3>1.By my pa en ma<br /></h3><p>1.Hulle wil altyd help.<br /></p><p>2.Hulle wil altyd my reg help as ek dwaal.<br /></p><p>3.Hulle gee baie liefde.<br /></p><p>4.Hulle oefen baie.<br /></p><p>5.Hulle het 'n goeie attitude.<br /></p><p>6.Hulle werk hard.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6ICLtI2MDN-Y0d4ymB5KTEWqyS2e4ggZ1GtPtjSOuUwpO6-kWT3meCcd4Oor7SkRKF1SQHFOyTFDbN4H-qI75Trvyn-F_29vlC8ttIm-OvHbDi0gYe_XA8huVOUEiKGCbxC7uK4qfMyn/s400/IMG_3349+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405304444287585842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><h3>2.Oor skool<br /></h3><p>1.Jy moet 'n goeie attitude he.<br /></p><p>2.Jy leer nuwe goed.<br /></p><p>3.Ek moet eerlik wees.<br /></p><p>4.Jy leer meer van GOD!<br /></p><p>5.Dis nie maklik nie.<br /></p><h3>3.Oor familie<br /></h3><p>1.Daar moet liefde wees.<br /></p><p>2.Jy moet tyd saam met mekaar spandeer.<br /></p><p>3.Jy moet gunsies doen.<br /></p><p>4.Jy moet saam eet.<br /></p><p>5.Maak grappies met mekaar maak.<br /></p><p>6.Teamwork makes the dream work<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh914ufdie4mcilImLBpINpXFqjUEJusk0R5xia2DYO8bNPFry1Uv3MfqGRLECrN5zmRQ2ROy-dw1O1D1MqHSTy6pGN06zK0n-3Mpi03_MLwiEnMYlKFIZo1eCOYxFrr1kM8QKDETBTd9BF/s400/IMG_3030+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405304442181308482" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><h3>4.Werkies wat ek gedoen het<br /></h3><p>1.Tafel dek.<br /></p><p>2.Vir pa sy selfoon bring.<br /></p><p>3.Vir pa water gebring.<br /></p><p>4.Vir ma 'n boom geteken vir haar boek.<br /></p><p>5.Tinus se rug krap.<br /></p><p>6.My rugsak altyd self gepak<br /></p><h3>5.GOD<br /></h3><p>1.MAGTIG<br /></p><p>2.LIEFDE<br /></p><p>3.SKEPPER<br /></p><p>4.VADER<br /></p><p>5.KREATIWITEIT<br /></p><p>6.VERLOSSER<br /></p><p>7.GOD</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIQmWGq04kIT-ZNrJV2J7uMNPyJN8OIdOwP4bBxRwkAPIqJC69skPDfOmcEmTFJkVE35Dy7JBBqsqLMf2kMIi6tJmltt2L-73XLWEAlYXH00aWxPXLSJRofMDKlY6YwL2g1qLr1o2zCQU/s400/IMG_2726+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405304438398602882" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><h3>6.Die wêreld<br /></h3><p>1.Daar is pyn.<br /></p><p>2.Daar is sonde.<br /></p><p>3.Daar is skoonheid.<br /></p><p>4.Daar is wonders<br /></p><p>5.Daar is liefde<br /></p><p>6.DAAR IS HOOP – as ons aan Jesus houvas<br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Dit is wat ek geleer het op 'n 9 maande wêreld toer.<br /></p><p>David Johannes Fourie<br /></p><p>Dankie.</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8v9fOfHNHx8ivQmXYUrvol2-T167XfFAsXrCb5szvuIcjSlHEXQzmx36t2BwkEjkNv9rBykDBO4Xc05kUS_BYqM_LiS6UQRj-BntcUQsEHFUU-zCsmXl2awwkL1gsl-tR8Mfbm3Eus5h/s400/IMG_5502+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405304448592174338" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-64457639468526822352009-11-16T12:38:00.009+02:002009-11-18T07:33:18.860+02:00Italy 14 Sept – 2 Oct 2009 (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: left;">Much has been written about Italy, but not much about the country itself and what we saw and where we went. I wrote about the accident and the peaceful days of moving our focus back home and Dawie J's birthday, but nothing else. And that is not right, because Italy is a very special place.</div><span xmlns=""><p>It's a country that was a 1<sup>st</sup> world country 2000 years ago, but now it is almost more 3<sup>rd</sup> world than many places in Africa! The internet did not reach most places, at least not any coffee shop or restaurant. They firmly go for eat and drink in restaurants and definitely not working on the internet! This is not necessarily bad, it just shows their attitude toward life: Stop often to enjoy life with friends, food and wine and in between those times, drive like Formula 1 racers on 2 way traffic streets that are actually to narrow for 1 car!<br /></p><p>Italians are open and friendly, loud and helpful. They only speak Italian, but are willing to listen en help with a mixture of English, Italian, Afrikaans and lots of sign language . The food in supermarkets in the small towns of Italy is also the lowest prices of any place where we've been in Europe– still more expensive than Namibia, but almost affordable! We thoroughly enjoyed the different pastas - it was on our menu every 2<sup>nd</sup> day! Two other special treats we allowed ourselves to buy in the Esselunga supermarket, were grapes and ice cream – wonderful!<br /></p><p>Our house, built in the 1200's and renovated in the 1700's , is next to the church. It was always the bishop's house. The lowest floor was the pigsty and shelter for the cow, but now it serves as the kitchen and dining room. The walls are 1 m thick and the windows very small. Me and Dawie had a room on the middle level and the 2<sup>nd</sup> room was Dawie's office, where an ironboard was his desk ('n boer maak 'n plan). The boys slept on the 3<sup>rd</sup> floor. From the parking area to the house is a narrow cobblestone pathway hugged in from both sides by other equally old houses. It is almost unreal and it was a special blessing to be able to become part of the small town of Lanciole for 3 weeks.<br /></p><p>We left Lanciole only 4 times. The first Sunday we went to Firenze with the train. A friendly Italian woman tried to help us to buy tickets at the machine that speaks only Italian. She has never done this before, but she really wanted to help us! At the end Tinus figured out what to do, we could catch the train and our Italian friend was relieved that all worked out – now she also knew how to buy tickets! Firenze has wonderful majestic cathedrals. They are not specifically the most beautiful ones in Europe, but I will vote for most impressive! </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFAuDRwM-cC8KXOnGBiLt5VlLhuDTMElurz4eGXuYfx_rpTfnykt50BBVDnkcC85Eag6BH6QJ16y2bZdETq5d7DvDyogbYUPCS2yn89rrYChDGFaHrf2nkG9qyQRYZP8ABGA6jY-J87vo/s400/IMG_3722+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405305870987228546" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>The doors are in solid brass with different panels telling Bible stories. We had fun figuring out which stories each panel portray. Quite sad is that the guides who have tour groups there, explain the panels with humanistic stories and do not mention that it is truths from the Bible! It was also in Firenze that we ran into David. We had picnic on the grass plain in front of another cathedral and found the open market with leather and Italian art and craft on our way back to the station. It was actually a blessing, otherwise we would have spent a long time browsing there and not experience so much of the rest of Firenze. God surely knows which ways to take us!<br /></p><p>On Tuesday afternoon we went to Pisa. Let me assure you, that tower is really skew. Although expecting it to lean over, it surprises you just how much it is leaning. Amazing that it is still standing! There were 1000's of tourists – much more than in any other place on our world tour. The only places with more tourists, were in Rome – our last stop in Italy.<br /></p><p>Another afternoon outing took us to Lucca, the neighboring town to Pescia (the town at the bottom of the mountain where the supermarket is). The old town is still encircled by a 100% complete city wall! Inside of the wall is a typical medieval village with cathedrals and narrow cobblestone streets. We had picnic on the city wall.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdIZyJcsDmpGGutBYrpGlKY908YsWvKJouaCgmJuWqfLcTzvBvJa845WqXrqhc4wl3tzRuIT8KSwmiUMqxoNmXUGo4x8FhgQHV-IuX-IIOGPINjp4Bd-bB4zs3qnmkF8BCJvwt8JqFYB2/s400/IMG_3899+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405312312001658226" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>Our final excursion was to Rome. We left early the Sunday morning and drove through the country side of Tuscany and along the west coast all the way to Rome. "Picture beautiful" is a good description of the entire road. We parked our car in the center of Rome, a few meters from the Trevi fountain. We started walking, exploring, discovering, enjoying. The 1000's of people walking the streets created a very special atmosphere. We were tourists in Rome! We found the Spanish steps without looking for them and sat there with 10 000 other people, just sitting and enjoying. We found cathedrals and a street with one designer shop after the other – people actually buy from them! While strolling and going left and right through the streets, we stumbled on the Pantheon – an impressive building with massive pillars and a 100% perfect dome, built many centuries ago! The Italian builders and engineers of the centuries just before and after Christ were surely remarkable! God took us through the streets of Rome and showed us all the special places we were supposed to see!<br /></p><p>We left the centre of Rome after sunset, to find a hotel. We found an affordable hotel where they still had a room available, but they needed to see all 5 our passports. Obvious, you might think. Problem: I brought only Dawie's passport and left the other 4 in our Lanciole house! Not clever at all, actually not thinking at all! The lady also warned us that she can easily phone the police to arrest us, because in Italy every person must at all times have identification on them. She also assured us that no hotel will rent us a room without the passports! Oh, the shame and the guilt and feeling bad I experienced! Only a miracle will help us now, otherwise we must drive back home straight away! We prayed and asked God for a miracle: An affordable hotel with vacancies and not asking for the passports. God is faithful and loving kind – He performed the miracle! Praise God! We had a place to sleep and another day in Rome!<br /></p><p>Our "bonus day" in Rome was spent almost entirely at the Colosseum and the first city.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJWanOU1p5EvRn_sSq5IPa-q8iaAxQtq57Skffsk7IsCyD014wqdS_Nu5HLneaL15WtafyYkUHjPyBseK_7GAf7wiMlIvB2hYrbZBbotzp-xqufzBCOiEbzT0bC31vG_V1tRdzp5iNJ0T/s400/IMG_4198+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405305875566026770" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>This was such a special 5 hours – going back into the history of an era just before and after the birth of Christ. This actually calls for a blog dedicated just towards these stories and the learning experience we had, so I will still try to convince Tinus to write something. After our tour, which only the 3 boys and I went on, we met Dawie in a small cellar restaurant and spent another 1 hour telling him all of our experiences. This was over a plate of very affordable and fantastic Italian pasta.</p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><p>I would like to mention one thing about the Colosseum. It was a place built exclusively for the pleasure of the people – a place where people fought people until one died and where wild animals ripped people to pieces at the cheers of the crowd.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvQ4l-n0NP6GT50184kWo2_g6UJKtIZ5LYx2IEm3tRBaD1w_NCVk56p5LWC4ql0rl6CIca6UfYcnk2yl_i80hNNU4topJe1tVOOC_xTJCrc2eB5GVwXgDS4oBZ2Jt6DWSk0J2F4IGupAJ/s400/IMG_4241+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405307696447878034" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>The material used to build the place, was entirely purchased with everything that was taken from the Temple in Jerusalem after the Roman empire took over Israel. One of the main events of the "shows" in the Colosseum, was to put Christians in the arena with hungry lions. These were people who's lives were different than the rest of the Romans, people who's lives were not filled with the sin and lust of those days, people who were light and salt and therefore were confronted with the question:"Are you a Christian? When they confessed their belief in Jesus Christ, they were fed to the lions! I kept on asking myself: if it was me, would I confess my belief or would I be a "secret agent"? And then the next question evaluating my life today: Will my life show to the world that I am a Christian? Do I look different than the world, or do I blend in so nicely, that I do not make a difference in God's Kingdom? Am I light and salt in a visible, feel-able way? Challenging questions that need to be answered honestly – it is only then that you can grow. The wonderful thing out of all this true and horrific stories, is that on the spot where the Emperor and his family sat to watch the games, on the exact spot, now stands a big wooden cross. The real King, the only King is on the throne! Praise God!<br /></p><p>Our final hour in Rome was spent in the Vatican city, at the St Peters cathedral and the big plain. Impressive and special. </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZy4UNS88UhFsHd_zmT8QqAMvdIgOoslj6jdgCtX-LHpRhmJLwkDRx8VMaoaJlnFlxK5cP4Yd4pFTUGPuUmH33BMAYISZOG-nfGwrXgj0KCINWe1UywM5_hyH9GACwPt2j0jMUXb13uPPc/s400/IMG_4269+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405305883748715714" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>Then we took the 6 hour long drive back to our house in the mountains of Tuscany – content and thankful that we could experience Roma.</p><p>The next day was Dawie J's birthday followed by 1 workday (finishing goals, packing, cleaning). The 1<sup>st</sup> of October came all too soon. With everything ready to leave, the 5 of us gathered in the dining room. We said our thank you's to each other and we said our thank You's to God. We were overwhelmed with gratefulness for the wonderful blessing in our lives the past 9 months. It was time for "new life" to begin – the 40 weeks were almost over! We shared Holy Communion. We only had chocolate cake left, which took the place of bread (we cut it in the form of Africa) and we had red wine to drink. All 5 of us dedicated ourselves once again to our Lord and Saviour and said:"Here am I, send me"</p><p>We left Lanciole while it was raining. We all had a tear in the eye, but peace in our hearts. We have started our journey back to Africa, back to Namibia, back home.</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlUUlvoh29CGSzmldbinrjc7_N4Ho-AYbvmaasl3-tDXd8b4tnjdLHjv06bHksb9qn0rzENeIawtwMgcnkgep0ScjaxkcnslYe1oZQHgvbJ_937Cq7_TGGhCRKuczr1NEiVxWMBLDGBk5/s400/IMG_4404+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405305887999009234" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-66151611843613908902009-10-25T21:01:00.003+02:002009-11-18T07:21:30.338+02:00Italy completes the circle – 14-30 September (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_AiSjJTL-82xu5IM2PKWgZNEtU856CNXfMunjLKS3WT0ZgJXb5wt5TiFvSM3HtSzBiQyYZUFIrHNvs6HS2-aKKbJBXlLzhS3Nth6m2yUhiGAJNIvZ_37Nt20nrfksasGUwUlSrb-5Zc-K/s1600/IMG_4420+(800x600).jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSFCCzVr8xcNsiyJPTK12qT3_rZ8wCBijhGikd_6AX49YAH0ZnbeYrUh0dOr_AYL9Zx6ipGKww659s536GM-CFIT7dvjLwvphmP5D1W4TlfhfCrHjPu9FGDzXbwX9jAfOOf0IL-eZ3ULM/s1600/IMG_4416+(600x800).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSFCCzVr8xcNsiyJPTK12qT3_rZ8wCBijhGikd_6AX49YAH0ZnbeYrUh0dOr_AYL9Zx6ipGKww659s536GM-CFIT7dvjLwvphmP5D1W4TlfhfCrHjPu9FGDzXbwX9jAfOOf0IL-eZ3ULM/s400/IMG_4416+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405308968151273970" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpg7sEbsEqGzHFNLthgSc8qr3jsmXX02rssu9NR6qS7qx1AVWljMUGfZDeQE2AGKlw36L44vF8EUiSy8LYB9z1_EtmmcTIIVi38kJaN05dq7pIA9Q46Nl4HLN3ixDOoMn3SXt2jDFrWY86/s1600/IMG_4392+(600x800).jpg"></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXx4gdMHGfiCp7FIhGhOuJ8W-pxQRnrrLsJOgAkVXdss2ZrKmd2fvtSMZi3rt8WRx8NavoYt-4azy0LOypiFFf9Rva_2RIYPNW8FX7GC-uKlsQ285Oax9yCUtUN5H8sPeSm3fQykVQW4_/s1600/IMG_3681+(600x800).jpg"></a><span xmlns=""><p>We are sitting in the business lounge in the Frankfurt airport, waiting for the plane to take us back home. When we departed on 30 Dec 2008, we were also in the business lounge (of Windhoek Airport, both treats with compliments of Trip Travel), waiting to start our 40 week journey..<br /></p><p>The circle is completed. We did not plan or even think that it is necessary to plan a fullness of the circle of these 9 months of traveling the world. That is something that a person cannot really plan, that is part of God's perfect plans. Once again I realize that waiting upon God for guidance in making your plans, is so much better than planning on your own and then asking God to bless them. God is the Master Planner. Why? Because He sees the big picture, He sees the smallest detail in that big picture, He knows what will make it perfect, He is creative, He loves us and He WANTS to bless us and He CAN bless us.<br /></p><p>So why do I say that our circle is complete? We started our "work year" of this tour in Switzerland, in a chalet high up in the Alps, in a solitary place. It was easy to follow a good routine and get out of the blocks for this 9 months race. It was a time in which God could prepare us for our tour around the world and for what He wanted to teach us. It was a place where we were forced to slow down, where the fast pace was ripped out of us and the only place to look at, was inside of our own hearts.<br /></p><p>We ended our tour in Tuscany, Italy. We lived in a house built in the 1200's, in a small village where there is no shop, no internet and very limited cell-phone reception. The village is high up in the mountains with a narrow road winding up the mountain. </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpg7sEbsEqGzHFNLthgSc8qr3jsmXX02rssu9NR6qS7qx1AVWljMUGfZDeQE2AGKlw36L44vF8EUiSy8LYB9z1_EtmmcTIIVi38kJaN05dq7pIA9Q46Nl4HLN3ixDOoMn3SXt2jDFrWY86/s400/IMG_4392+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405308963965143762" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>It was raining the first few days, and kept us inside the house – in the same manner as the snow that kept us inside our chalet in the Swiss Alps. We did not want to travel the road too much and chose to stay home. It was easy to follow a routine and "finish well" on all our goals. We noticed these similarities and shared with each other that the circumstances are almost the same as in the beginning of our year. Much to our surprise, we discovered that the area we stayed in , was officially called:"The little Switserland of Italy"! God already knew how He will complete the circle when we planned our tour in 2008! We only discovered the beauty of His plan when we were living it!<br /></p><p>We were in a solitary place, where God could prepare us for going back to our homeland, to Namibia. We were forced to slow down and to use the time to look back at 9 months of traveling and summarize what we have learnt.<br /></p><p>The circle is complete. Many small things of Switserland were repeated now. The church bell rang every hour to remind us of the hour of the day and God's love for us. The exercise went uphill, only uphill, until we turned around to go home, then we must pull in our brakes. One difference however was our speed, much faster than in Switserland. Come to think of it, also that completes the circle – because we have accomplished a much better level of fitness than what we had before.<br /></p><p>With the circle completed in so many ways, we also prepared ourselves in our mind and spirit to return home. I cannot say that I am excited to go home, which almost makes me feel guilty. But I realize: it is understandable, because it means that our dream is over, our bubble will burst when we put our feet on Namibian soil. What I can say is that I know it is right that we go back and that it is a privilege to have a place to go back to. Another precious privilege is the fact that many other people are excited that we will be coming back. We also know that Namibia is the place where God wants us. We saw many places on our journey where we know we will have a wonderful, purposeful life, but we know more than ever before: Namibia is our country. And that is good to know.<br /></p><p>We will continue to write blog stories when we are back home, because there are still many stories that have not been told – stories on Italy, on other places, on what we have learnt through these 9 months and I am sure there will be a story on "Back Home" .</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXx4gdMHGfiCp7FIhGhOuJ8W-pxQRnrrLsJOgAkVXdss2ZrKmd2fvtSMZi3rt8WRx8NavoYt-4azy0LOypiFFf9Rva_2RIYPNW8FX7GC-uKlsQ285Oax9yCUtUN5H8sPeSm3fQykVQW4_/s400/IMG_3681+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405308960447854242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>As for now, I will end this completed circle story by once again just thanking God. He is worthy to be praised.<br /></p><p>The God I know: Righteous and Holy<br /></p><p>The God I know: Faithful and true<br /></p><p>The God I know: a tower of refuge<br /></p><p>The God I know: strengthens the weak<br /></p><p>The God I know: Your Heart beats within me<br /></p><p>My one desire: more of you</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_AiSjJTL-82xu5IM2PKWgZNEtU856CNXfMunjLKS3WT0ZgJXb5wt5TiFvSM3HtSzBiQyYZUFIrHNvs6HS2-aKKbJBXlLzhS3Nth6m2yUhiGAJNIvZ_37Nt20nrfksasGUwUlSrb-5Zc-K/s400/IMG_4420+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405308971263818194" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-69095462028392600992009-10-21T21:20:00.002+02:002009-11-18T07:27:38.147+02:00Built on Rock – (Dawie) 25/09/09<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmMejEPNhLkAJxBbvbsgWkgi2XxFiIC68wrLC0SAEfq0G8m_7RKojRGidsj4IwlRgrN3CJP-fYqDtoorO48Fa7QF6Pc9nSrr-lqmDp7zPBFFeePUPo6CJ3cBtC2f1xad-WmDU6BAXqy1L/s1600/IMG_4384+(600x800).jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmMejEPNhLkAJxBbvbsgWkgi2XxFiIC68wrLC0SAEfq0G8m_7RKojRGidsj4IwlRgrN3CJP-fYqDtoorO48Fa7QF6Pc9nSrr-lqmDp7zPBFFeePUPo6CJ3cBtC2f1xad-WmDU6BAXqy1L/s400/IMG_4384+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405309899642624690" /></a><span xmlns=""><p>It is nine months since we left Windhoek for our around the world tour. I am writing this blog in the mountains in the north of Italy in a former priest house, built in the twelfth century. The walls of the priest house and the next-door church are almost a meter thick. Despite being built in an earthquake-prone are, they've stood firm for more than 800 years... They are built on solid rock...</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhKVmGLXDB0O_bRUUZNxgrfoslK111VJgRkWd62PPXvyTDZDJP8S9Q8Gv9aL3cceORm7uFT4Ci6vx4DgD9cVqCDhXvz6x-4w726P9D4698K4MUFQqfFUATG2TdLa7qNnYRw120eLPkCit/s400/IMG_3868+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405309897681133154" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>It let me think of early one morning when my father-in-law woke us up, so excited; " The Lord gave me a name for your lodge! It has to be 'The Rock Lodge', it has to!" Approved! As the French traffic officer told me in his typical accent: "No discuszioon". There was also no discussion on Charles Ralph Brockelbank von Gericke's suggestion...because through him the Lord has spoken. "Rock lodge" it was.<br /></p><p>Since that day more than 13 years ago, we held more than 500 training days of seminars to help people to build their lives, marriages, families, businesses, churches, schools, organizations, governments, countries etc. on the Rock.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OEF21VLrBBSpB6cTYl02m_rF1f-ZANCD67xfxAzyXexbZvO2FaJeThiSk57QHtD9qGuyxZ5eFmxXMv9LDW6ZdOi6LHmpgh3jzJR3uvrPvXpcY_9vy_mZNR3Xij2wEF8J_tePAA2IAV2V/s400/IMG_3697+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405309894080463842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>More than 2000 years ago Jesus asked his disciples who do they think He is. Matthew 16:15-18 (NLT)<br /><sup>15 </sup>Then he asked them, <span style="color:red;">"Who do you say I am?"</span><br /> <sup>16 </sup>Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." <sup>17 </sup>Jesus replied, <span style="color:red;">"You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being.</span><br /> <sup>18 </sup><span style="color:red;">Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.<br /></span></p><p>We all know that the "rock" Jesus referred to, is not Peter himself, but more his testimony that Jesus is the Messiah, the savior of the world.<br /></p><p>Everyone of us is building something. We all would like to build things that will last...that will stand the test of time...like the priest house and the church I am writing of. Like the Church of Jesus.<br /></p><p>Jesus is aware of our desires. That is why he gave us guidelines on how to build.<br /></p><p>Matthew 7:24-28 (NIV)<br /><sup>24 </sup><span style="color:red;">"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.</span><br /> <sup>25 </sup><span style="color:red;">The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.</span><br /> <sup>26 </sup><span style="color:red;">But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.</span><br /> <sup>27 </sup><span style="color:red;">The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."</span><br /> <sup>28 </sup>When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching,<br /></p><p>The lesson is clear after the "therefore" in vers 24: those who have heard Jesus' words AND put them into practice, they are building on rock, only their "buildings" will stand against the trails of this world and the storms of life.<br /></p><p>Joshua said after a successful life as a leader in difficult circumstances, as recorded in Joshua 24:15 (NLT):<br /><sup>15 </sup>But if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve...But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord."<br /></p><p>After 47 years, more than 500 training days at the Rock Lodge and a nine months around-the-world-tour, I am more convinced than ever before that if we would like to leave worthwhile legacies or want to build buildings that will last, then we should build on rock...that is to seek God's guidance through His Word and Spirit AND put His ways into practice.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBAZt26dRFEKep0XlJW1gAxHWlX6Gtj9kImkkuQA2xqL61L5DEU5DPDNkabXLaNRIXAD0XZiISIIal-qGEK4Vg6qLy8Q_xmxm4D5FBZhPpwe7wI85lCfl7eD4UOAf5kTwf-H6O5d4U_GZ/s1600/IMG_3703+(600x800).jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBAZt26dRFEKep0XlJW1gAxHWlX6Gtj9kImkkuQA2xqL61L5DEU5DPDNkabXLaNRIXAD0XZiISIIal-qGEK4Vg6qLy8Q_xmxm4D5FBZhPpwe7wI85lCfl7eD4UOAf5kTwf-H6O5d4U_GZ/s400/IMG_3703+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405309897108949938" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></p><p>Therefore if you are unwilling to serve the Lord His way, you can choose today who and how you will serve, but for me and my family, we will serve the Lord in His ways. We will build on the rock...<br /></p><p>Its seems to me that it is not only the confession and commitment that is important, but also the outcome...because the quality of our building work will be tested.<br /></p><p>1 Corinthians 3:10-15 (GNT)<br /><sup>10 </sup>Using the gift that God gave me, I did the work of an expert builder and laid the foundation, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. <sup>11 </sup>For God has already placed Jesus Christ as the one and only foundation, and no other foundation can be laid. <sup>12 </sup>Some will use gold or silver or precious stones in building on the foundation; others will use wood or grass or straw. <sup>13 </sup>And the quality of each person's work will be seen when the Day of Christ exposes it. For on that Day fire will reveal everyone's work; the fire will test it and show its real quality. <sup>14 </sup>If what was built on the foundation survives the fire, the builder will receive a reward. <sup>15 </sup>But if anyone's work is burnt up, then he will lose it; but he himself will be saved, as if he had escaped through the fire.<br /></p><p>I believed that through God's grace, some of our building work will stand the test of time and the storms of life. I further believe that through God's grace, this world tour will bear much fruit for God's Kingdom. When my words proved to be right, may our Lord Jesus get all the glory, because all the glory is due to Him and Him alone.<br /></p><p>Therefore, our Heavenly Father, please guide us through the powerful work of your Holy Spirit to know how we should build once we put our feet back into our wonderful country, Namibia...the land of the brave!<br /></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-63351255553148352542009-10-01T22:33:00.002+02:002009-11-18T07:31:52.843+02:00Bad things do happen – 14 September (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NJ1axEDtDqmSNfInVRhEB4zmdmbWs-MX0vNnKssjSQ2KPmylFJzBJyacV0wjITyqSTt4RSxWDcxh_L3betkFgdjd-HrUKWRsHQonD2kDdL34vocqf0g61FUIvwpIRYALrn-WD0gzFIe4/s1600/IMG_3672+(800x600).jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4srGez8aPWrm-jb2x1D3rSPL9A9NETDBXxw3kWffgNU7eaQrdwjrX5DPM6X8izdljgQOVApQzo2knUKTDAKg1F4Q1Xv0bcXNWRb23ZADxoaze_ZudXu-Jiq24yXgv8ntBhWJaDjgK3X8b/s1600/IMG_3686+(800x600).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4srGez8aPWrm-jb2x1D3rSPL9A9NETDBXxw3kWffgNU7eaQrdwjrX5DPM6X8izdljgQOVApQzo2knUKTDAKg1F4Q1Xv0bcXNWRb23ZADxoaze_ZudXu-Jiq24yXgv8ntBhWJaDjgK3X8b/s400/IMG_3686+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405311411888559170" /></a><br /><span xmlns=""><p>We left Marseille on Sunday, 13 September at 15h30 after Dawie returned home from AVIS with our car. All our belongings were packed, the house was clean and the food for the road was ready. We drove along the coast, avoiding the expensive toll roads, on our way to Italy – our very last stop on a 9 month journey around the world. We stopped for picnic at a Typical French Riviera holiday town. We sat on the rocks with the waves crashing at our feet, later having a pebble throw competition and watching the sun drop into the sea. It was glorious. Life is good – very good, and we are grateful for what we can experience. We drove over a mountain pass. and slept at Cannes. Monday morning, we continued along the coast up to Monaco. It was spectacular scenery all the way – yet a different example of God's Creativity! Monaco was busy, packed with (seemingly) rich people. We saw the whole of the kingdom of the Garibaldi's, on the day 20 years after their beloved Princess Grace died.<br /></p><p>Then we took a toll road – we need to put some kilometers behind us now. We drove on a road crossing the mountains, but we never went up or downhill, because the road is like a chain consisting of tunnel-bridge-tunnel-bridge. Amazing what man and money can do. We entered Pescia, a small town in Tuscany,in pouring rain. It was 16h00, as planned . We met our home exchange host at the supermarket after buying food for the next week. The food was the most affordable prices in the whole of Europe so far. The price of a bread is half of what it is in France!<br /></p><p> Soon we were off to our very last house on this adventure of ours. We were following Gloria to the house high up in the mountains. She will take us there, as there is no adresse to put on the GPS and explaining the way is also a challenge. "How can we explain this to anyone or really describe it well on a blog, so that they will understand?", we told each other. The excitement, the newness, the uncertainty, the thankfulness, all of it mixed together, is a feeling that we have enjoyed throughout our 9 months. "It is the last time, remember to drink it in and remember...", we reminded each other.<br /></p><p>We left Pescia, and the talking and excitement switched over to utter concentration. The road went up into the mountains, steep and curving the whole time. That in itself is not a problem, but the road is VERY narrow – many places room for only one car! Our guide car went fast, as we found out to be the normal way the Italians drive. When going around a blind corner(of which there are many), the hooter is blown, but the speed remains the same."What do you do if there is a car coming from the front?", some one asked."You hope there is no car coming", was my only answer.<br /></p><p>Not many turns after my "wise " words, there came a car from the front. When we saw the car for the first time, it was perhaps 3meters from us. We were very slow at that stage and Dawie hit the brakes. I remember closing my eyes and feeling us stopping, thinking that we missed each other, only to hear and feel the CRASH! </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NJ1axEDtDqmSNfInVRhEB4zmdmbWs-MX0vNnKssjSQ2KPmylFJzBJyacV0wjITyqSTt4RSxWDcxh_L3betkFgdjd-HrUKWRsHQonD2kDdL34vocqf0g61FUIvwpIRYALrn-WD0gzFIe4/s400/IMG_3672+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405311415551122962" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>The other car were unfortunately very fast, and although he did brake, he could not stop before driving right into us – almost head on(that's how wide the road is there on that blind turn in the road) When I opened my eyes, I saw the nose of our silver Ford and the red Fiat completely smashed and folded into each other. Then, looking to my left to Dawie and to the back to the 3 boys, seeing everyone is fine. My question confirmed it. All 5 were 100% fine, not even a bump, but the car is close to a right off. By then I gladly saw the 2 men in the other car also climbing out, they were scolding in pure Italian, but they were uninjured. in one piece. Praise God!<br /></p><p>Oh no! Can it be real? Thank you God! Sadness. Thankfulness. All of these emotions and thoughts went through my heart and mind simultaneously. Car nr. 13 on this tour is smashed! Our last car and that 1km from our house. We had an accident, but we are all fine and we can walk away from the accident scene. Praise the Lord.<br /></p><p>After that, things happened fast. Gloria phoned whoever needed to be phoned, our luggage and food and ourselves were loaded into Gloria's car and taken to our house, a tow-in truck came to take both cars away, we greeted our hosts and the 5 of us were alone. We were safe and sound, but bruised(not physically) and sad and quiet. We ate the meal that I have prepared by now and prayed together, giving thanks mostly. We were sitting in a house built in the 1200's, almost unreal the privilege to stay in such a place, a fitting "grand finale" for our world tour, but we were some what quiet. Dawie J was trying his best to cheer everyone up, continuously confirming his love for us and that everything is OK! So special how God uses us all differently... The rain continued to fall down.<br /></p><p>We went to bed, thankful for saved lives, and prayed for the many people who has lost loved ones in accidents like this one. The next morning at the breakfast table, we spend a long time sharing our hearts, asking and answering each others questions, seeking together for things that we've done wrong, repented for what was needed, looking ahead, finding the life lessons that we can learn and prayed together. We asked God that He will help us to walk away from the accident psychologically and spiritually in the same healthy way as how we could do it physically. We decided once again that one of the most valued and important things in our family, is that we must live in unity and treasure our lives to the full. We also trust God 100% as before the accident, we know that He is in control and we are fully committed and relying on Him. We are so glad to be His children.<br /></p><p>Yes, bad things do happen, but God is good. Life can sometimes be hard, but God is good – all the time. We praise His name. We will follow Him, because that is the safest place to be.<br /></p><p>Thank you Jesus.</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRf8uDnGOEg60HFilAUdlxbjd-ifx_oUK_1KNgQwEO0WIptridrFE3t1UgWbn_HCoTlZXn6Hfpu96BoXBFX0ePgq_rNcJcpBQ-zTNrqAH0f4mLYO1I3X-ZRKbRR8uFYX9-MBrxvjD5Txjx/s400/IMG_3576+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405311421575916642" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-53560252295826694982009-09-25T21:06:00.003+02:002009-09-25T21:28:14.546+02:00How I kept myself busy – Italy (Dawie) 23 September 09<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ75ST9JUljAg7Cfh-3tSDtK4hqx64zyRSl7AtkM5DzF6Pf5Npv1lY6CKSCblAf6vTqZA3bi8OtaeeMLsaTuMYHgUanUFvAmRUWkbOUAEuO753zKjWF08M3YYBf97GplFJZ26r9tAAyF94/s1600-h/IMG_5018+(800x600).jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG30j1AKV24J_l8j3a-vPjw_CNBd-oS34qO-VDcQkPxH7AB12IZPUtGZVNHLt_wmL-c12efHUO0AUI6YRKcQ6jtFJHIOfBCrigGPbAJ5wbxtKQhqBosCDgy9DPpFQFQIX_pPAlreJO67x/s1600-h/IMG_4954+(800x600).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG30j1AKV24J_l8j3a-vPjw_CNBd-oS34qO-VDcQkPxH7AB12IZPUtGZVNHLt_wmL-c12efHUO0AUI6YRKcQ6jtFJHIOfBCrigGPbAJ5wbxtKQhqBosCDgy9DPpFQFQIX_pPAlreJO67x/s400/IMG_4954+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385486507897348610" /></a><br /><span xmlns=""><p>For the board of the African Leadership Institute ("ALI") , our family trust's trustees, my mentors, friends and for myself, I thought it would be useful if I try to summarize the 25 things that I have devoted most of my time to over the previous nine months:<br /></p><ol><li>Travelling the world with my whole family: I have visited more than 30 major cities in 10 countries on 5 different continents.<br /></li><li>Planning the trip and keeping tight control over our tour and personal finances.<br /></li><li>Leading our capable teams back home and maintaining precious relationships (via Skype and more than 20 emails per day).<br /></li><li>Meeting with various influential world class leaders. (I also made special new friends.)<br /></li><li>Visiting various churches of different denominations and sizes.<br /></li><li>Being exposed to places of leadership interest, such as the museums of Martin Luther King and Abraham Lincoln.<br /></li><li>Reducing the cost of training material for ALI through sponsorships and discount on training books.<br /></li><li>Completing the English translation of the book, "Wie steel my geluk?".<br /></li><li>Acting on instructions of of our family trust's trustees of, amongst others, increasing our passive income.<br /></li><li>Advising and guiding Chrisna's book on "Forgiveness".<br /></li><li>Improving and extending our marriage seminar curriculum (workbook and follow-up seminar).<br /></li><li>Improving the curriculum of ALI (I revised existing sessions and developed new ones).<br /></li><li>Reading through the whole Bible (twice in 18 months).<br /></li><li>Reading nine carefully selected books.<br /></li><li>Resting well in body and spirit (we spoiled ourselves with two weeklong pleasure cruises).<br /></li><li>Keeping my physical body healthy and ready for a new season.<br /></li><li>Finalizing the monthly financial management accounts of 5 different entities.<br /></li><li>Completing the financial yearend procedures of more than 7 entities and preparing for their board meetings.<br /></li><li>Spending time with God (in walk, journaling and prayer).<br /></li><li>Investing plenty of quality time in my wife and three sons.<br /></li><li>Writing more than 20 blog posts and finalizing two newsletters.<br /></li><li>Selling (including negotiations and contracts) the TurnTheTide coffee shop on behalf of their board.<br /></li><li>Improving my own skills and capabilities by attending leadership seminars, computer and technology training.<br /></li><li>Reflecting on the previous 47 years of my life, dreaming and strategizing for the next season.<br /></li><li>"Wasting time" in the Lord's presense and with my family.<br /></li></ol><p>Psalm 16 (NLT)<br /><sup>1 </sup><em>A psalm of David.</em> Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge. <sup>2 </sup>I said to the Lord, "You are my Master! All the good things I have are from you." <sup>3 </sup>The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them! <sup>4 </sup>Those who chase after other gods will be filled with sorrow. I will not take part in their sacrifices or even speak the names of their gods. <sup>5 </sup>Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. <sup>6 </sup>The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance! <sup>7 </sup>I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. <sup>8 </sup>I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. <sup>9 </sup>No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises! My body rests in safety. <sup>10 </sup>For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your godly one to rot in the grave. <sup>11 </sup>You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.<br /></p><p>AMEN</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ75ST9JUljAg7Cfh-3tSDtK4hqx64zyRSl7AtkM5DzF6Pf5Npv1lY6CKSCblAf6vTqZA3bi8OtaeeMLsaTuMYHgUanUFvAmRUWkbOUAEuO753zKjWF08M3YYBf97GplFJZ26r9tAAyF94/s400/IMG_5018+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385486518990322242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-64882908066015747072009-09-25T21:05:00.002+02:002009-09-25T21:28:14.547+02:00Will I do a world tour again? 21/09/09, Italy (Dawie)<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmM-x7fnWLC7v7DoF4XcLPVCgBxK-XoERTsypdMMMIcDCgMy6F9tcWhlOUtiPLHSfbT-t7TK34MED33LFuLPHgEVzJY2zqhvqV4MubeVNrEAZJ8BaNjYzy4AYKYibmjsF1_ajMeGrC9k6k/s1600-h/IMG_3066+(800x600).jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmM-x7fnWLC7v7DoF4XcLPVCgBxK-XoERTsypdMMMIcDCgMy6F9tcWhlOUtiPLHSfbT-t7TK34MED33LFuLPHgEVzJY2zqhvqV4MubeVNrEAZJ8BaNjYzy4AYKYibmjsF1_ajMeGrC9k6k/s400/IMG_3066+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385487333011765890" /></a><span xmlns=""><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy32VfLtOS0D207M6zEhmxggHebmYCPTqF-6VGYWfaqLVVCtq18b6YwSNcgOZz0MzcRMeL19NZi8kicj2DVnAfaNmlmMFKAW2OTlle4QLSvebC86qpmcTEkdbtM8Zp5lLI0bB6je82t7_f/s400/IMG_4470_edited-1+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385487345802665906" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBJmZb2WwLs7eN42KImNKmFu0jpI7wJQiJOeQZetIMlfo5r96wnTVlI7jGW9LYzv70AEm95Q_QikiSfoi5mKQlEd5xP5SAz1pvoh4V0OtEgRxyhHWwsLfuUQIkHrDhhMs8On62ZA2DjfS/s400/IMG_3349+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385487345238426866" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>The practical circumstances around our family will most probably not allow us to do such a world tour again, but if I had to make the decision again, I would have no doubt what so ever to take the trip!<br /></p><p>Through God's grace I have made a few good decisions in my life...like to accept Jesus as my Savior, to marry Chrisna, to become a chartered accountant and to join GJ Hanekom & co (which later became part of PricewaterhouseCoopers), to have three children, to start the Rock Ministries - partnered with Transformation/TurntheTide in Namibia, to found the African Leadership Institute AND to take my family on a world tour for nine months.<br /></p><p>Surely, there are things that I will do different if I can start all over, but they will be minor. For that I can only give God all the honor and glory. Minor things I would have done differently on this tour, would be to include the more difficult parts in the world to travel (like France and Italy), first, and the easier countries (like New Zealand, Australia, America), last.<br /></p><p>Things that we got right were the open communication channels with our capable team back home and among ourselves, the good budget and the management thereof, the fine balance between work and travel (experience and leisure), the fantastic churches, places and people we visited, the slower pace, the more time with God and his Word and the soft & broken hearts inside us. Again all honour and glory to Jesus, Our Lord.<br /></p><p>We have shared so many good and joyful stories on our blogs. The impression may be that we had only highlights and we are a perfect family who had a perfect time...not true! I lost part of my finger in Phuket, spent time in hospital, got a traffic fine in France, made a huge car accident in Italy, had conflict with all my family members and had to deal with tough travel and language challenges to mention only a few. I had asked my family members more for their forgiveness than ever before – just because there were so many things to forgive me for!<br /></p><p>I am extremely proud of all of them. Chrisna as tour manager, "homemaker", doctor, principal and wife did a great job. She allowed the Holy Spirit to prepare her for a new season of more fruit in ministry. Tinus as head of technical and communication division was an exceptional servant (in various fields) throughout the period. He is now ready to leave my home for further studies and for a next phase of preparation. I have no doubt that God will use him to make a huge impact in this world. Charlie brought joy and life to the tour. He was a good friend to all four of us. He really started to read the Bible more. He is a very gifted individual and will develop into a great leader of his time. Dawie J travelled well with four adults around him all the time. He was stretched in many ways, but developed from a small little boy into a young man with unlimited potential.<br /></p><p>The memories of the tour are awesome, the impact immeasurable and the thankfulness in our hearts towards God (and all the friends who made it possible for us to go) overwhelming.<br /></p><p>At this time while I write this blog, my emotions are so full that the only way I can end is with Paul's words in Romans 11:33-36 (NLT):<br /><sup>33 </sup>Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods! <sup>34 </sup>For who can know what the Lord is thinking? Who knows enough to be his counselor? <sup>35 </sup>And who could ever give him so much that he would have to pay it back? <sup>36 </sup>For everything comes from him; everything exists by his power and is intended for his glory. To him be glory evermore. Amen.</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPIWb5-pOesj7RzN1W8DicxxgATdQXuUW5rvUsy_yV_tBKWeqvl-J_63GSBdWZkKwV4lYOBKBBVRO50JVok0gXgUzKtl8kPZLPdjRPvoBzEcZnoUdYB4kTGVC43EU5hvmQqaly-NNhuMs/s400/IMG_4932+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385487355341986050" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-77901875326698296792009-09-25T18:45:00.009+02:002009-09-25T19:39:58.526+02:00A Mediterranean Cruise – 5-12 September (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQ9uw6GD3pmXfo9rDaN4_uhowR8SlGaOMO7i2EoWBpHhLqvMVPVqPKME0a1yI7czAyeY-X5Id1eqWpOc2rNXspyE8pg3UBy-AyODSw04rFN_xXs2DkGTNs60ITHR3zOP3zENnyrY1lyDf/s400/IMG_3080+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385460136607678482" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></div><span xmlns=""><p>The cruise in the Alaskan Inside Passage was a dream come true, even better than ever expected, a real blessing. If that was my first and also my last cruise, I would have been content for life. Another cruise was not part of our plans, in our schedule or even somewhere on a radar screen. When Tinus suggested it while we were struggling to find an affordable solution for our 5-14 Sept. empty timeslot, it was an exciting thought, but put aside because of the "unrealness" of it! Luckily Tinus pressed on, investigated and came with the good news that a cruise crossing the Mediterranean Sea, departing from Marseille (where we were in a home exchange until 5 September), will be of lesser amount than travelling to Greece (where we wanted to go), accommodation there and food for the week. Almost too good to be true, but true!<br /></p><p>We were scheduled for yet another cruise! That is a special spoil, blessings running over, and I tasted what Jesus meant when He spoke the words in Luk 6:38 " <span style="color:red;">Give,</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">and</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">it</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">shall</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">be</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">given</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">unto</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">you,</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">good</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">measure,</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">pressed down,</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">and</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">shaken together,</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">and</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">running over,</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">shall</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">men</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">give</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">into</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">your</span><span> </span><span style="color:red;">bosom." </span>What we are receiving is so much more than what we ever have given, so much more. But yes, that is the God we serve and worship: the So-much-more God!<br /></p><p>So it happened that on the 5<sup>th</sup> of September 2009 we boarded the MSC Fantasia, excited and ready. We looked forward to the new adventure, because although it was also a cruise, it was on a different ship, cruising different waters, stopping at different ports. This was also not "freestyle cruising", which meant that we had routines concerning our dinner time, place and dress-code.<br /></p><p>The wonderful thing of a cruise is that no one in the family has any planning, organizing, deciding or working to do. The food in the buffet-cafeteria is ready for breakfast when we wake up, it is again ready when we are hungry or coming back on board at lunchtime and it is ready at 19h00 in the fancy restaurant. The dishes are taken away and washed by someone else after the meals. The boat is in a different port every day and is usually there already when we wake up. (It also happened once that it arrived at the port while we were eating breakfast. We loked at people tying ropes and working hard to get us docked, and we did not have to do a thing.) Whenever we are ready, we leave the ship to go ashore and come back, usually many hours before departure. Again, we will be lying on a sunbed or playing cards, and we feel the boat starting to move and hear the horn blow. We are off, and we did not have to do a thing! We did not have to pack, or hurry to get in the car, we don't have to find the road or even make the decision that it is time to go. We just sit, minding our own business and we are departing! That is fantastic! That is to taste and feel the spoiling you are privileged to experience. (You will understand this spoiling of "doing nothing" and not concentrating at all, better, if you understand how "doing everything while absolutely concentrating" was part of this past year!)<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNDeS12txw9lEMxVkpAtaPWzPGxMyRyrJKwsMwqCPa78a_vskbbAqato3okb1RVcQxiz-prFujknDbuCQt7OfvPjMkrWB36Vc4vIvldPY-lI6iIxLq9gojkPTK197mosgk6DmbCDL8kcT/s400/IMG_3307+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385460137082595106" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>We visited Genoa and Napoli on the Italian west coast and then Palermo on the island of Sicily. All 3 very Italian and very old, but very different. We walked for kilometers, just exploring the cities, admiring the old castles, churches and piazzas - open plains or squares next to massive buildings, which succeed in creating a feeling of space in the midst of all the cluttered buildings. And when we're fulfilled...back to the gigantic ship along the seashore. A strange observation is that none of these places have well kept parks or green areas in them. If there are plants, they grow in pots and the parks we did see, was parks decades ago – now they are empty, dusty areas with sorry trees. On the Monday in Napoli, we saw 10 brides posing for pictures in front of different old buildings, most probably due to the lack of green, leafy backgrounds. We speculated whether it was Wedding-madness-Monday, or why so many marriages late on a Monday morning?<br /></p><p>On 09-09-09 we set foot on African soil again – the first time in 8 months and Tinus especially, had a noticeable happy face! We visited Tunisia and could go into town, to the market, for 1hour after standing in the passport control line for 2 hours. All the places we have visited so far was old and dirty. Tunisia was also old and dirty, but also neglected. Yes, we were in Africa. But we knew with a sureness: this is our continent, this is where God wants us – in Africa. We surely are Africans.<br /></p><p>The next day Palma, on the island of Mallorca was on our itinerary. This is not only Raphael Nadal's hometown, but also the playground for many very rich people. Although it has it's fair share of old buildings, the city was clean, the roads wide and the traffic orderly. Must be a combination of money and good leadership in the municipality that leads to this pleasant difference. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tSODr99dkTh5MqdxrK6oL11xC5a-UGAltMF4ZEN0RvGrEaPWh6ilng135QE4mG6PMIVM8r3r8HWQNWq-e0vRkHWdkzCyQu7CjhO4z2KZA8c_tyDEqqdlpc8g7sTd77VczkTatr2A1YFv/s400/IMG_3334+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385460150526186466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>There is one thing that Namibia and Mallorca has in common: the gecko! Wire, metal, glass and cloth geckos are for sale everywhere. We found ourselves actually having a strange longing for the friendly, mosquito eating geckos in our house on the farm!<br /></p><p>On 9/11, the day America remembered the tragic day 8 years ago, we docked in Barcelona, Spain. (This was our last port before arriving back in Marseille again.) It was a public holiday in Spain, and the whole of Barcelona was on the streets, browsing through the many street markets. We marveled at beautiful old buildings and the architecture of Gaudi, which differs so much from the rest of the European styles. Once again the walking fitness we gained throughout the year, like so often before, served us well. We walked far to reach the city, but saved many Euro's that way by not taking a shuttle bus or taxi!<br /></p><p>That is a summary of the ports visited and the "free excursions" we planned for ourselves and enjoyed tremendously.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Fjz2NXH1WSW1H4uGJ9B9Ha71xURMYwrHEaZEg-x1SR2A5JDzti7Q5cLFihHZqyXyi_5eQb_HgNhBMKP2nJav8NYpsKSU7RocUeb1hSNqDKK2b27B7Vht3g-4-RGJVx-GZP0APr9iqcQ7/s400/IMG_3464+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385460161026645586" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>Another thing I would like to mention to make sure that I do not forget it in the future, is the evening meals. It was fancy and we had to dress for the occasion! We had our own table where we sat every evening, looking out over the vast mass of water, and with a personal waiter, Gede from Indonesia. He is working for his 10<sup>th</sup> consecutive month of this year, that is without 1 day off ever – 7 days a week, non stop. This is his 5<sup>th</sup> year working like this. He gets 1 month per year off, when he goes home. He does this because there is not work opportunities back home. Every one on the boat works like that. They never strike or call on the unions. They all just appreciate the fact that they do have a job and an income and then they work, 12 hours a day. We pray that he will find a good job in his homeland when he goes there in December, he wants to be with his wife and children now and feel it is time to return.<br /></p><p>Back to dressing for the occasion: Strict rules apply – only long pants and no jeans allowed in the evenings. Luckily we knew this beforehand, and bought a pair of brown pants for each of the 2 young men (who has only 1 jean each on the tour.) What we did not know, was that the captain decides when it will be "informal dress", meaning the long pants and a shirt with collar, or "formal dress" (a tuxedo and bow tie will not be out of place!) Obviously we could not reach those standards, but boy, did we gear up! We laughed and joked that other people won't think we look too formal, but they did not know that we were wearing the topclass of what we had in our suitcases, that we made effort with our appearance – it was the best we ever looked the whole year. Tinus and Dawie each bought a long sleeved shirt on a sale in Michigan City and Charlie received a "too small shirt " from one of the BC boys in NY and that was what they wore: the brown pants with the black long sleeve shirts and very important, they had a "formal attitude" in their eyes and posture. Dawie J was even better! He had his only long pants on and a black shirt of mine, which sleeves I folded and sewn in place. He combed his hair real neat and had the same posture as his brothers. I had my (only) best blouse on. We were accepted. It was definitely the posture and confidence that granted us entrance, and not the clothes. Yes, the Fouries can gear up with what we have if it is needed! You guessed right that we looked exactly the same on both formal evenings. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7z8XE7CXcHIwZajIIY4gXMCsPOzFlewxxuF5ZvCoCipotHtwtQK5V-hjNa8Q_TRZY8X0wzWMHvdCVcIh7zpacsDxMnbYu1Uqdhfrbmi-kBM2ItsdmphcIcIgmJINFQFjDvaJbg5NLcfST/s400/IMG_3317+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385460149064549282" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>We enjoyed the evenings, the special service, the food which we ordered from a menu and especially the conversation. We spoke for hours about many different subjects. Outsiders must have thought that we saw each other many months ago and that we had some catching up to do on the talking! What a blessing. Yes, it surely is a blessing that we love and like each other so much and enjoy our fellowship and being together to such a degree. I thank and praise God for this regularly.<br /></p><p>All too soon we arrived back in Marseille and it was time to leave the ship. We agreed that we made the right decision in taking this cruise. It was really fantastic and usually the expensive part of a cruise is to get there at the port of departure, if you come from Africa. But we were fortunate enough to already be in Marseille. We just realized once again that inviting God into your plans, right in the beginning of the planning, is the wisest decision that one can make, because God sure makes good plans. Excellent plans as a matter of fact and we simply say: "Yes, we will go ! Thank you, thank you very much."<br /></p><p>Yet another story on the blessings of the Lord. We are grateful for all that we may enjoy and experience. May God's blessings flow through us to those whose roads we cross...</p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-67068599209814755702009-09-25T18:43:00.003+02:002009-09-25T19:33:09.586+02:00The miracles of keys in Marseille – 1 September (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-pEM2_YlywGWJ0FqW4Td7NjGSVzEEhZgTQfHcDetje-ALRgZq8ikKqZmInYNByFOekBy_2bDpONgUZREKc88ibcSHi9MT6ja502dUgi80HX9Lp_HQz68YVoPUIeOAAYFjf_uqpR6Uby3n/s1600-h/IMG_5670+(800x600).jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLm5BzYEpFd7dXipkKVCZN_Kt5Ui9n90JIR8bdgkzQPzu1nhhOaPzlS8V4-_ZGsC9JCR-JPsN1oQCtnVU92MQRh7VE1P6MjAdZGyrFuklQLXNfJIwxPDrN1gItn47M9haRoPIhQ6olhCyr/s1600-h/IMG_2384+(600x800)+(2).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLm5BzYEpFd7dXipkKVCZN_Kt5Ui9n90JIR8bdgkzQPzu1nhhOaPzlS8V4-_ZGsC9JCR-JPsN1oQCtnVU92MQRh7VE1P6MjAdZGyrFuklQLXNfJIwxPDrN1gItn47M9haRoPIhQ6olhCyr/s400/IMG_2384+(600x800)+(2).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385459185188159538" /></a><br /><span xmlns=""><p>The problem with falling behind on journaling and also blogging, is that you must summarize a whole period into one entry, and then it quickly becomes too lengthy, so you shorten your writing and obviously shrink your memories and learning opportunities. Another unfortunate result is that you also forget some key elements of what has happened and the life lessons accompanying them. This is exactly what has happened with my reporting on Marseille – I did not include a few (3, to be exact) key elements in my blog. Luckily I have enough time to reflect and think back again, to remember and write again. The problem is just (and this is now a short interrupting lesson for myself), that back home, while on the run and busy, there is not always time to re-reflect and to re-write. That way valuable lessons might fall on the ground and not in the heart. The lesson for me now, is to not postpone, to stay on schedule and to do it now and do it right! (sounds as if I read Tinus's blog on lessons learnt in Germany!) The only way to do this, is to plan and do, plan and do – never think that I will have time tomorrow, because tomorrow will be full of tomorrow's stuff, so do today's stuff today! Woa! That was not planned when I started with my blog on keys, but somehow God managed to take my thoughts there and re-taught me a valuable lesson, as if preparing me for what awaits me back home.<br /></p><p>Back to Marseille and the key elements that I've missed on my first round. It is all about miracles God performed there with keys. Not once, but 3 times!<br /></p><p>Miracle nr.1 : Arriving at house nr. 1, we found a young French boy there, mowing the lawn and getting things ready for our arrival. He also had the key to the house, but there was a problem: the key was stuck in the lock. It did not want to move and the door was unable to open. We could understand from his signs that he has tried everything, but with no success. We all tried, different tricks and ways, but the key and lock was stuck. There was no way to enter the house. After 30 minutes of struggling, we stood together and prayed. We asked God that the key will unlock the door, will come out of the lock, so that we can unlock the second lock on the door as well. We tried again, simply turning and pulling the key. It worked! It did exactly what it was suppose to do – unlock the door! I still do not know who of us or the Frenchman was the most surprised, but I do know that our voices said: "Praise the Lord!" and he said something that I could not understand. We had to agree, God is also Lord of stubborn keys. And we had to repent for trying such a long time before asking specifically for His help. The evenings prayers included many thank you's for unlocking the door for us! <br /></p><p>Miracle nr.2: Our house had only one door, with 3 locks. The one on top in which the key was stuck, which we never used again. Another lock at the bottom on which that same key worked which was the only lock we used. The third lock, in the middle. was a jail lock (that you can lock from the inside without a key) for which we did not have a key, so obviously we did not use that lock. The first afternoon excursion happened a few days after our arrival in Marseille. We took special care to close all the windows tightly. It was a team effort to try to maneuver the car from the garden into the narrow street in which 4 family members took part, while the other was locking the door. We had a special afternoon visiting the Church on top of the Hill, the church where over centuries, seaman went to give thanks for safe journeys on stormy seas and ask for protection for the next journey. We had a blessed time. Back home we unlocked the lock that is the only one suppose to be locked, but the door did not want to open. Then we saw that the middle lock was locked! How is that possible?! We tried all the keys, but we definitely did not have the key for that lock. Then the locker realized that he was not concentrating earlier and did lock the lock from the inside, before pulling the door shut – the lock was locked. There was no other way into the house, except for breaking a window, which we obviously did not want to do. By now, we have learnt our lessons and everyone was praying for a breakthrough – or shall I say a break-in. The next moment the door opened and Dawie stood there with a piece of wire in his hand and a smile on his face. He has unlocked the lock with a piece of wire! I guess by now you know our shout: "Praise the Lord!" Again we had to agree, God is Lord of locks as well, and He can and wants to help, even if it was our own mistake which caused the problem. The evenings prayers included many thank you's for unlocking the door for us – once again! We know that God not only protect those on the stormy waters of the seas, but also in the normal storms and unsteady waters of the every day life.<br /></p><p>Miracle nr.3: We moved to house nr.2 and had to phone the neighbor, who you guessed right, speaks French, to organize with him when we will be at the house. We said we will come on the Sunday some time after 17h00. The cleaning of house nr. 1 took longer than planned for and the traffic right across the city was a nightmare, so we reached the new house only after 18h00. It was securely locked with no one in sight. The neighbors spoke only French and were not helpful at all. We did not have a phone to call again and no other plan of how to enter. Charlie and Dawie J walked up the street to see if the house has a back side, but it did not. By now, we were all praying: "Please get us into the house?" An old Frenchman came walking to us, scolding in fluent French, pointing to his watch. He has the key to the house, and someone phoned him to say to be at the house at 17h00, and when no one was there then, he went back home. His house is way up the road. He by accident saw the 2 boys walking past his house, talking a strange language and he thought to see where they are going. He found us at the locked house. We apologized for being late and he gave us the key. Yes, we all said: "Praise the Lord!" Again we had to agree, God is Lord of locks as well, and He can and wants to help, even if it was our own mistake which caused the problem and even if other people are involved. The evenings prayers included many thank you's for unlocking the door for us – once again!<br /></p><p>Within 3 weeks, we experienced how God performed 3 miracles with keys. Yes, even something as practical and real as a locked door is not too difficult for God. The lesson to take away? God is almighty and can do anything. He is faithful and loving and He really cares for us. He not only can help, but wants to help in all circumstances. He wants us to ask. Why, if He in any case knows what we need? He knows it will grow our faith if we ask and see a prayer answered, He knows that it is good for us to realize how dependant we are on God, He knows that small victories can lead to bigger victories later, He is God.<br /></p><p>I am so glad that I know Him. May my life bring glory to His Name!</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-pEM2_YlywGWJ0FqW4Td7NjGSVzEEhZgTQfHcDetje-ALRgZq8ikKqZmInYNByFOekBy_2bDpONgUZREKc88ibcSHi9MT6ja502dUgi80HX9Lp_HQz68YVoPUIeOAAYFjf_uqpR6Uby3n/s400/IMG_5670+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385459195230304082" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-70624899838654421452009-09-20T14:31:00.008+02:002009-09-25T19:22:01.398+02:00New York – blows you away! (11– 18 Aug) Charlie<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj67WcOlvlYVyX-qtGaH_MduMtyAI0uujQtUurAbSw6bu6R4QgcmazfM-ID0zK4W4v-gL-J-JoSBuGW2oJ-Zo29DpoDggLcM8SuYV7gEE0HeT-7IQcWm5T-yDv8byDrctfYfxZBqRaCxmp/s1600-h/IMG_5272+(800x600).jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj67WcOlvlYVyX-qtGaH_MduMtyAI0uujQtUurAbSw6bu6R4QgcmazfM-ID0zK4W4v-gL-J-JoSBuGW2oJ-Zo29DpoDggLcM8SuYV7gEE0HeT-7IQcWm5T-yDv8byDrctfYfxZBqRaCxmp/s400/IMG_5272+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385455864155843218" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">So much has been said about the Big Apple. Not only from my other family members, but by the rest of the world. Always when I hear about a movie, money or business, I think of New York. I wonder how many movies are shot in New York? Everything about it just shouts out size and speed. The first thing I realized when we drove in the taxi from the airport to our South Orange New Jersey house, was the haste in all the people's eyes and body language. Everywhere In NYC it seems as if everyone is always late and has got something better to do. Even in Central Park, where the idea is to relax and find a haven in all the chaos, there are New Yorkers running and racing, not jogging or cycling! A 40 hour day would not be enough for a New Yorker!</div><span xmlns=""><p>For us, New York was an experience of overwhelming pace and size but it was also an experience of soulful calmness and grace. Our whole Trip dictates that the times when we were not the ones leading and knowing, were the times that God lead us to truthful joy.<br /></p><p>When we were still at the mountain cabin in Georgia, we had a big meeting about the coming weeks. We unfortunately still had a lot of places where we did not have accommodation, so this meeting was to fill in some gaps. By the grace of God, we could fill a lot of these gaps. One on the other hand, still eluded us, New York. We decided to book a hotel with a cheap rate for early booking. After that day, a few weeks went by and while we were still in Chicago we got a mail sent by Patty Brown-Christenson. After reading the mail, we were once again astonished by God's love and grace. She gave us her house for that week. A beautiful, huge, amazing house! We immediately rejoiced and thanked God. After that we made work of it to quickly try and cancel our other hotel. Only by grace that they were full- we could cancel the un-cancelable booking!<br /></p><p>So we were on the plane headed towards a beautiful New Jersey house close to NYC. I knew we were headed to New York when we got in a mid air traffic jam! We finally landed and got to the house without too much hassle… The house was even better than on the pictures and we knew that we were in for a great five days. Immediately we decided to stay there the whole time and just go in to NYC when we have to go to another, closer hotel.<br /></p><p>The time at the house was fruitful and relaxing. We enjoyed every element of the blessing. From the huge T.V. all the way to the lovely pool. Me and Tinus also made use of their weight room (gym). It's weird, but I love exercising, especially doing weights and this was just perfect. It was also nice to have my own room. It was lovely to have a bit of solitude when trying to work, because when in a small apartment, finding solitude can be quite a challenge. It was lovely to be able to see the big city lights at night, but also be able to see the stars. This house was a perfect blessing to us and I want to thank God and the BC's for being such lovely, loving neighbors. Now I know what " love your neighbor", truly means – even love your neighbors 10 000 km away!!<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguncu_O1aZ2oCgWuDbbeSIR09vW8_nvBGdH2_A9HjZzYd7noff1zjxLjB65NhoKIGaGEtpOBYdJq4yI6OLhrrOc3HHrVIux7UN1aQ68XOW9DayljdlbfL5Dr81-0Td9XsN7Vsl2LY8NhUb/s400/IMG_5123+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385455857639643618" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>The Sunday while we were still at the BC house, we headed toward another church picked out by Dawie Sr. We took an interesting drive to the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church . As always, we were blessed by the beauty of God's love and faithfulness. The Grammy award winning choir was one of my many church highlights.<br /></p><p>It was sad when we had to leave the house. Not only because of the great house, but also because of the beautiful people we were privileged to meet. I want to thank them as well for treating us like family. From the other blogs you can see that they were truly blessings to us. We were headed back to a small hotel room, but we took with us the excitement of seeing NYC in the morning.<br /></p><p>The next day, we became part of the ever running and busy New York city. We took a train to Penn station from the Brick church station near our hotel. From there we took the (classic) New York Subway! All the way down to the harbor. The plan was to walk from Lady Liberty to Time Square. I took in the immense size, speed and grace of the city. After the lovely Liberty, I began to see the story of a city that was more than money and power. I saw it as a refuge of love, taking in fledglings from afar. During the boat trip we glanced a look at a few memorable islands, Wall street and the Brooklyn bridge. After the Liberty boat trip we knew a bit more of the city. We then decided to take on our long walk to Time square, taking Broadway all the way. We passed a few hundred stands selling I love NY t- shirts before reaching Broadway.<br /></p><p>From the moment we first set foot in Broadway, we began to see the real picture of NYC. The walk up Broadway from Lady Liberty to Time Square was one full of joyful, heart-ripping and mouth-dropping sights. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7YDjd41r6CUXQWnHpW-IXHq9rB1qJEhmQiAXz6A8SIC-27rTVczCUO1WWl5k_fGROy8zutx-vHcuDLStNME-_YEnYZttMdC_Vk-OSgzwAJh-teBl_E9fW8cs74ZtDWV_Q_NifI8IhCky/s400/IMG_5264+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385455876830762370" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We past Wall street and the Trinity Church. It was beautiful to see the center of the Financial world topped off with a picturesque church. It just tattooed the fact in my mind that God is in money as well and does not want His children to fall short. We kept on walking and experiencing the very essence of the city. It was beautiful to see all facets of human difference gelling together in perfect harmony. For example: There were people literally of all races, people of all classes and people of all religions. There is truly something beautiful in all of us, for the One who made us is truly perfect and lovely.<br /></p><p>The sight we saw next was one that took our breath away. Not because of beauty, size or architectural brilliance, but because of grave tragedy… The piece of land once occupied by the World trade center was definitely the biggest shock to my system in a long time. It's definitely the biggest impact "nothing" ever had on me. I walked around the large piece of land and couldn't even imagine the splendor of the buildings or the horror of 9/11 itself. As it was 9/11 2009 a few days ago, I want to extend my deepest apologies to all whom lost something or someone. I also want to encourage everyone to see 9/11 as a learning curve for all of us. Life will knock us down sometimes and it is okay to fall, but character is seen in those who dare to stand up and complete the race!<br /></p><p>After the learning walk of 9/11 we continued with our mission. We walked past a few lovely, small parks and a few interesting buildings. The Empire state and Chrysler building being two obvious favorites, but not my favorite. My favorite building in NYC was the Flatiron building.</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidepzXDPkporiRRipLkywhErwnwlTMLgIF3jTZcegHDxWM94FBHWjTDQmfsdiXjry3iVOW3oOU-ujx5O3RqBk1ncdI5yxfrqgDhj0df-HE7RiisYqg355tyPzrhy0AQ782fnP3mapr-vM_/s400/IMG_2095+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385455852905699442" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p> It wasn't the largest or the most spectacular, but it was flat and simple. It looked like a Mac book Air from the side and like a triangular prism from the front. What also makes it nice, is that it is built on a fork in the road. It just uses the very little triangular space the fork has created, making most of what it has.<br /></p><p>As we came nearer to our destination, the sun had almost dove behind the horizon. It grew darker very quickly and we were soon headed toward a shining beacon of light! Just before we arrived, we decided to have a light NYC dinner. We purchased a few hot dogs from a hot dog stand and a few slices pizza from a pizza restaurant. We sat outside on a few chairs in the middle of the road. The meal was wonderful and a great preparation for what was to come. The moment I first set foot in Time Square, I was astonished. All the lights and signs was truly spectacular. I think I stood standing there, standing still, mouth open, for about five minutes before I blinked!</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3SXTdOarqFgmTjnqxkemgNFjLuTn4xD3xI69Dl-gA5UQgvkvkz1T3JQl1rnz5nAl_rI46cFBKfoPqQAKP2n-jtyQgx0YuXccM9yMjti8LlG0Pm1AanRuVrQ3QqZC4Vw9ZVyLB_EZ5S7XL/s400/IMG_5344+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385455870385084050" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p> The night air that mingled with all the lights and people created a wonderful, exciting and soothing atmosphere. What was also memorable was the Toys R Us experience. Being the biggest in the world, it was admirable. It put the toys in Toys R Us.<br /></p><p>From there, a day ended in glorious style, we took the train back to our hotel again.<br /></p><p>The next day was the day we left America. We all had mixed feelings, but most of us felt like we used every second we had in the US well. WE ended our NYC and USA experience with Central park. Truly a haven in all the chaos<br /></p><p>At the end, I see a beautiful miracle and lesson that this big city opened up in us. As an African, New York seemed like a fabled place. A place where hard work and a keen mind to make money is king. At the end, I saw a city that has power and prestige in earthly terms, but I also saw a wounded giant that lost a lot through tragedy. This wounded giant though is busy standing up and working together to rebuild a better future. What happens in life is sometimes hard, very painful, but God lets everything work out for the good for those who loves Him. He is always there, calling, waiting for us to make Him our number one!<br /></p><p>I also want to thank America and the Americans that made our time memorable!</p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-41451809115055623092009-09-20T14:31:00.003+02:002009-09-20T14:33:29.299+02:00What I’ve learned in Singapore (17 September 2009) Tinus<span xmlns=''><p>I reckon I have but a few days on tour left to record that which this experience has taught me. Reclining, laptop on my (guess what) lap, I thus continue with Singapore.<br /></p><p>I must admit that as soon as I start thinking back at Singapore, I am overtaken with nostalgia. I really enjoyed and profited greatly from my time on that island state. Our sixth floor apartment in Building B of Normanton park, provided a private workplace for all in the family. I remember with great joy my two tables set up around the corner by the window in my bedroom. On those tables I coughed blood! (Figuratively speaking off course...) You see, my grandmothers arrival brought with it my UNISA work. The problem was that exactly 2 weeks after her arrival, 4 of my Math assignments were due. That's a whole terms work I had to do in a fortnight! And, to make things worse, I only learned when she arrived that I needed two textbooks! Well, long story short, I spent a lot of time at those two little tables by the window! (By the grace of God alone did I meet my deadlines, if you're wondering <span style='font-family:Wingdings'>J</span> ) At those two tables and lying in my bed in the same room, I also shared great moments with my God. It was late one night, after a little joyless reading, that the Lord spoke to me about what I'll soon share. <br /></p><p>I also remember what went on outside that window I so often looked out of though. For one, it seemed to rain constantly when I was inside (yet strangely enough, rarely when I was outside). That outside I remember fondly. The park adjacent our complex, with its endless paths and many benches. The large swimming pool with water at the perfect temperature. The soccer field where I helped get Charlie ready for his rugby. (P.S. Oom Piet Coetzee. Oom skuld my vir al my sweet, bloed en brakefluid wat van Switserland se bulte tot Phuket se strande en Singapoer se modder in sy fiksheid ingegaan het.) The city and all its subways and sights. The shops of SimLim and the Funan centre where we went tech-shopping. And the list continues...<br /></p><p>I really enjoyed Singapore tremendously.<br /></p><p>It was also in Singapore that the Lord taught me the one thing that has probably made a larger impact on my life this year than anything else. It is this that I wish to share, both as a reminder to myself and in the hope that it might also provide to someone else even a glimpse of the value it did to me. Ready? Here goes:<br /></p><p><em>Apply your mind.</em><br /> </p><p>The Lord has blessed the human race with this incalculably valuable gift and yet we seem to ill use it. Its like receiving a U$10 000 gift certificate (non transferable, not redeemable as cash and valid for a day) for a shopping spree at, say Wal-Mart, and for some reason only buying a pack of peanuts! We don't apply our minds. Or, at least I can speak for myself and confess that I am often too lazy to really think.<br /></p><p>Yet, really thinking is what gives birth to understanding. And understanding is the foundation of effective action. Understanding schoolwork leads to good grades. Its not mere talent, but the ability to fully use that talent that sets successful people apart. Utilising greater portions of our potential not only puts food on the table, but a Porsche in the garage. Thinking on (or, to state it in biblical terms, meditating on) the Bible transforms us into Christ-likeness. Applying our mind gets the results we want in our lives. So, why don't I do it more often?!<br /></p><p>Well, because it's hard. It's a lot easier to mindlessly memorise a bunch of formulas that understand where they come from. After a year, though, memorised formulas are forgotten, but understood ones, stick. It's easier to play a chess match move for move, but the ones who think ahead, seem to win. Listen to this: It is easier to hear the Word of God from the pulpit than to struggle through that which you fail to comprehend with just the Bible and the Spirit ("with just the Bible and the Spirit" does anyone else see how funny our reasoning often is?) to help you. But it is the latter that produces in you a spirit akin to that of Christ's.<br /></p><p>More often than not, however, once I started applying my mind, I realised that it seemed harder than it actually was. What also always holds true, is that the profit gained from the harder road of applying your mind is entirely worth the effort. Christ said we are to count the cost of following Him. It's hard. Yet, He said that His yoke is easy. It's not too hard for you to bear. And finally, His road leads to everlasting life in paradise. The other road land you forever in the pit of burning sulphur!<br /></p><p>Secondly, I often do not apply my mind because I do not need to in order to be good enough. In our modern world the definition of good enough has been radically distorted, though. Am I good enough when I make a living? Am I good enough when I can put my kids through university? (Luckily none of my worries yet.) Am I good enough when I am better than everyone else around me? Am I good enough when I am better at one thing than those around me? Am I good enough when enough (or the right) people give me enough credit? At what point can I stop applying my mind because I am good enough?<br /></p><p>Ask this question to any sprinter and I believe he'll laugh at you. A sprinter, though he might not be the fastest (and even if he is) will not stop accelerating till he runs flat-out!<br /></p><p>And that is exactly what God wants of us. Our very best! And he knows what our best is! (The best way to impress this on you is to ask you to go watch the movie "Facing the Giants". Your very best!)<br /></p><p>The third reason I often do not apply my mind or reach my full potential, is because I am unaware of what that is. Without any fancy talk, let me bust this hurdle to complete mind application once and for all. In 1 Corinthians 2:16b the Word clearly states: "We have the mind of Christ!" The mind that envisaged the universe. The mind that conjured up salvation. The mind that keeps everything spinning. That mind is in me!<br /></p><p>Now you know your potential. Go reach it.<br /></p><p>Apply your mind. Think things through. Keep asking questions (to God and to other people) until you understand. Trust God for the answers. It's your responsibility to understand, not someone else's. Ask the right questions. Determine where your understanding is derailed and attack that curve. Maintain your highest level of concentration. Apply your mind.<br /></p><p>P.S. I probably should have applied my mind to furnish this post with a better conclusion, shouldn't I? Or is it that learning to apply your mind is a never ending process? That more of your mind needs to be applied as it is exercised? Maybe this post thus should not have a conclusion?<br /></p><p>P.P.S. What do you think about that sort-of-yet-not-conclusion?<br /></p><p>P.P.P.S. "And that's all I have to say about that." (In a thick Alabaman accent)</p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-61909507110383146892009-09-20T14:30:00.013+02:002009-09-25T21:12:04.016+02:00NEW YORK , NEW YORK ! - 17 September (Dawie J)<div style="text-align: left;">New York was great!</div><span xmlns=""><p>With all the big buildings and our big house we lived in, it was just great. For the first time in months we had a swimming pool and it was hot, so we swam a lot. We also played a lot of cricket.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfsuYUUJ-MMfHjvHJldTEcwVa_hum8C97zguuEWnQm443JO7BQDg6drQIqpsDZTUvLSXZVAeZ-5Dln1TaxkpNxLTvae1UzH025lsy00UV6pMpJ0DtPj15PEaOpykJ1DMeSN9Ui3_FR1RF/s400/IMG_5075+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385483926786483250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We went to New York City and took a boat cruise on the Hudson river to the Statue of Liberty. It was nice to see this statue in real life, and not only on a picture. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2IIn7BbMngy0Xkeij7blVt1kkmCeSDcg6AwO4VDTbY1JiDqAx-aH43ppDc28PfKT4ee4tXIL8B0SGBX73Wxoz5B1QAJdi-aAyhUKRR8WZnpydP9ZqhJE78PrAeAYR2gRNPFs0linhxc-9/s400/IMG_5186+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385483931153700818" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>Then we had a picnic in Battery Park and started our long walk towards Time Square. We saw the Wall Street bull, the Trinity Church and also the NY and American Stock exchanges. Then we went to the site where the Twin Towers once were standing tall. It felt like something was just ripped out of that spot when I saw the open space. I was wondering: Why would anyone do something like this?<br /></p><p>We walked and walked and walked until we reached Time Square. It felt like daytime, but it was 10h00 in the evening! There are lights everywhere. We went to the big Toys-R-us. It was great seeing all those toys. Then we went home with the train.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKvDD0q39_i2SGFlswhBSCjgnUZ4sTuTNiCqsTh6fB2QSSfroi63NwdiZ9qL0_82Ymru821yIuBFsKQ4z8jlE0zPI-1SDX52Gb0kPi3oulx9DHTkGN0qgXpyPNYNe-CjMjQM8vmYVOI3f/s400/IMG_5352+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385483943913581666" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We were in Central park as well and recently we were in Monaco. It is amazing that they are both the same size – a country and a park!</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LNojTXv9bWOFOP2a-LsJ38vxxqAynvu8arjoge6GCS0POYpp3W4O8yZBv5C4t_k2Ys0oU8NmNS7BTIIcvkcbkJmPHC-ZKu1_L3k0LCRBSEdE7YuJ11Qbya_IMouCn8Ku6zmIV0Vk8o_M/s400/IMG_5427+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385483954715777922" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We were sad to fly out of New York, because NY was great and it was also the end of our 4 months in America. America was definitely the best stop yet.<br /></p><p>This is Dawie J Fourie signing out from Italy – Ciao! </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Uh7s_lXc33x2djnDYWhuc86_G4LdztKeEHhJSsev0fHHHD0c33r5KCy-Yv5_JdMdAoOvGPe2YIiKaW4zitojKyopMcSYManmsoZ954DqSS6FfWECGgVP9xyfBssoU06p6YaHTwbfCnzZ/s400/IMG_5328+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385483941362799570" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-24376995199317083432009-09-20T14:30:00.011+02:002009-09-25T19:14:10.542+02:00Mainly Mediterranean Cruise (15 September 2009) Tinus<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7WsfDprAiI8hVsnSAIrC8wit9ztqmMnONpdW03S6NlAfItYlIenRAOpz16PZGKLM2_MQnF3zlCDBaagfnQs19y5ojGnGMO0SFKDVx7y_lxtE6np3LjYz8XcGXuF3uFz690kGKJhaq9EKD/s1600-h/Manhattan.jpg"></a><div style="text-align: left;">WOW</div><span xmlns=""><p>We are truly, truly blessed!<br /></p><p>Here I sit in the tiny backyard of our Italy home. Before me dozens of shades of green and yellow colour the small valley, at the bottom of which an unseen stream melodiously flows. Behind me, the 800 year old house that for its first half millennium of existence served as a bishop's home, proudly stands. Inside, each member of the family is busy: my mother is preparing food, my father is updating our financial records, Charlie is reading the final book in the Mark of the Lion Trilogy and Dawie is somewhere in Dawie-world. We are content!<br /></p><p>Before I continue, let me elaborate a little on contentment...my favourite emotion. It's a sense of knowing where you are, of being absolutely certain that is exactly where you want to be and being completely happy with it. It is something that is interconnected with your surroundings, yet strangely independent of them. A strange combination of overwhelming peace and overflowing joy, despite (and yet because of) everything that happens around you. (If you do not at all understand, I blame it on the fact that I am a high "C" and should therefore be incapable of effectively communicating my emotions. <span style="font-family:Wingdings;">J</span>)<br /></p><p>Contentment is a way of life that enhances living. It is therefore something to be <em>practiced</em> ceaselessly. Yet, there are times when it just overtakes you and you cannot help but feel entirely content! These times are those that I never forget and treasure most dearly in my life. They are not necessarily the times that I learn or accomplish the most, but they are the moments that I know God just smiles on me and delivers a big box of chocolates...not to be analysed or efficiently used, but to simply be enjoyed in His presence. They are times of sanctuary.<br /></p><p>Though most of this tour is characterised by contentment, 3 times of sanctuary I'll remember above the rest: The week at Redstone lake and the two Cruises. Though they were doubtlessly periods deemed by God to just (in Afrikaans: "sommer") bless me, there are certain things they have in common. Things I did or did not do, I mean. By highlighting these things and practicing them in my day to day life, my mathematical and logical mind tells me that I can raise the overall level of contentment (and of pleasing God) in my life. Now, understand that I might not get the result to the same degree that I receive it in times of sanctuary, but even in seasons of hard work and even hardship, I believe I have the capacity for <em>more</em>. <em>More</em> blessings. <em>More</em> pleasing God. <em>More</em> love. <em>More</em> joy. <em>More</em> peace. <em>More</em> contentment.<br /></p><p>But, <em>more</em> on that later. Right now, I'm bursting to tell of all He's done!!!<br /></p><p>I'll start with a quick mention of my birthday. Boy, was it blessed!!! I got up to the (not all to perfect, but yet lovely) sound of my family's attempt at singing. I enjoyed a fast-paced run beside the Mediterranean. (Please don't criticise my choice of morning pastime on my birthday. I've been looking forward to a decent run since our half marathon in Chicago.) A BIG breakfast was dished up next, followed by presents! The highlight: my Swiss army knife that was lost and now is found. A wonderful swim in the salty sea (pardon me, extremely, tremendously, enormously, particularly, exceptionally, exceedingly salty sea) preceded our journey to Vieux Port. The sightseeing and meal there was divine. There also, did I finally have access to the internet and could I quickly copy and paste all greetings and best wishes from everyone to read later.<br /></p><p>A few hours playing Tradewinds back home (again, please don't criticise my boyish taste) and a last couple of hugs from the family ended the day (for them at least.) With the family asleep, I went through everyone's greetings and wishes and was I blessed! Finally, I sat in the small courtyard by our front door, gazing at the full moon and praising the Lord to the tunes of the African Children's Choir till 12.<br /></p><p>Thank you to everyone who made my day so GREAT!<br /></p><p>That was Thursday. On Saturday, we embarked on our second cruise of the tour. This time cruising the Western Mediterranean aboard the MSC Fantasia. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjchTTJfzGmnWoDXIb-nijD3tBPU67oJ8PBWEIx4qR9OBQiT5P3xjfTi2gkNyaWVekpDhuHElvWbK_wCRtDdmCDZRxrlLkPOoRsgm94_W_G0lVyI65-7jEj43Bd1ePEcNqv-4soJ_Vql_mn/s400/MSC+Fantasia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385451347220962978" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>The ship is one of MSC's newest - and largest – vessels. Her 18 deck, 333,3m long bulk has curves at all the right places and is by far the most beautiful ship I have ever laid eyes on. Decks 7, 14, 15, 16 and 18 are public decks, decks 8 to 13 (and 17) cabin decks and decks 5 and 6 a little bit of both. </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Pzp4CyKP01Ep5OvPFyjRA2_ZEn-XlOEu9M1PlKi1aLBpSXbJpChI1c18EUvOziQrhfY6ZkcQA1PbsobZkkGM2cFQqoScy5d2ogkuQ3tP2fKwliE47byLzQhKGTY_2_mH-rLw3OfqAi-i/s200/L'Africana.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385452099062890018" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span></p><p>Deck 14 from stern to bow houses the brilliantly decorated L'Africana and Zanzibar Cafeterias, the out- and in-door pools, as well as the spa and fitness centre (Looking out the front windows of a 150 ton ship does motivate you while you're pumping iron or raking in the miles). Decks 15, 16 and 18 (the solarium) are mainly speckled with sunbathing beds. Deck 15 astern is the no-noisy-children allowed "zen-zone". </p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid1uEUmIzVJVCDrknh-nsFC8T-kRuMEyJIhP-tlPRymEgmPwAmEJiFAqQQxphfQFKuZQy-Tbgfwd0DpJdIHXgc70Lnyh4csCVkrRVnl1zPubm-cIyDS_mU_LlvmpbKu8otFZT4_IKdkvJ3/s200/Deck+16.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385452095405789474" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /><p>Deck 16 is the sports deck, with ping-pong, squash, fussball, shuffleboard and a small soccer field. It also contains the poorly located disco. Why an area used only at night (and closed during the day) is located on the one place on the ship with the best view of both the ship itself and the oceans she cruises, I fail to understand. But that's Europeans for you. <span style="font-family:Wingdings;">J</span><br /></p><p>Time to venture down below. On deck 7 the L'Insolito Lounge takes up the stern. Nestled between it and the ships atrium a little forward is a speciality restaurant with a red wine feel to it, a tex-mex restaurant and the photo shop. </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHr07V-tl9cqqkGhsoOmgwh-0srLVdOBZ1UnLr6O4clJ63e-zAFIqeHnKg7aV9cXBhcwPsd0xl-QSeJ0oFcd8_JHJcQ3DrTp0zDDnCvae5KXCjBt1DOkAOuST6lXYJjQrUXfRDJGyQg1R/s200/Atrium.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385452091589501746" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px; " /></span></p><p>The atrium is directly beneath the outdoor pool. It is an open space from deck 9 to deck 5. On deck 5 are the reception and Fantasia bar, where the music in the evenings consists of either violin, piano or an extremely popular Spanish trio. Up the Swarovski stairs another green bar graces deck 6. Up yet another flight of crystal steps, deck 7 contains a cappuccino bar.</p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7WsfDprAiI8hVsnSAIrC8wit9ztqmMnONpdW03S6NlAfItYlIenRAOpz16PZGKLM2_MQnF3zlCDBaagfnQs19y5ojGnGMO0SFKDVx7y_lxtE6np3LjYz8XcGXuF3uFz690kGKJhaq9EKD/s200/Manhattan.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385452119306504674" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /><p> Further to the front on the same deck, the portside sports bar and starboard side Manhattan jazzbar are to be found. </p><p>After them are the Il'Atlantico bar and the L'Anguardia Theatre. The theatre consumes the bow from deck 7 to 5. Walking backwards on deck 6 from the theatre, you pass through the casino, shopping island, atrium and dual-deck Red Velvet Restaurant. </p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1szmMD_7jQ_gqQm_e_CefCFnlCFZWcPyQaep4bmoKsB4Xn6e7zoMoYivkezXaAKTm8O8_nnXN_zJrWyyiOSXgc9kO7jlA2dtsi0kpZfDFl3nvvVIJ7K1WeVlLoDlT4CiN5rbCpxbVkE3R/s200/d'Oro+Restaurant.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385452108306758498" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /><p>Our evening restaurant, the Something-something d'oro (all those Italian names confuse me) looks out the stern of deck 6, but can only be accessed via deck 7. The ships library and business centre is between the Red Velvet and atrium on deck 5.</p><p>And that is the MSC Fantasia in a nutshell.</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtgk3TmG6S00DPEIFoCH9pDzRLO220e84LpmP7Gu2pOLxoU7Wa-z9N5d-GgrPr47r25SCPB8YHPIKV5fIAS9YXxov9narWxGunOg3jdVG2Yl4My0stmtWxL-aoZYXu9kIxbYxNcgLjSQA/s400/Fantasia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385451341376006242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>Now, as far as I can remember, this is where I stopped in my recollection of our Alaskan Cruise. Keeping to tradition, this shall be partly true now. This time round, however, you are most certainly going to get a Med Cruise Volume 2. As far as my mention of contentment is concerned, I shall elaborate in my "What I've learned" post on Marseille. (Which should not be too far in this future, since I am already drafting Singapore...)<br /></p><p>Peace</p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-70130552303876445532009-09-20T14:29:00.010+02:002009-09-25T20:57:02.139+02:00Loud and messy – 18 September (Dawie J)<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyv512Sw2Xss7TrQi_zegOQiN7xOOwxLmBqWmLAaFxb6dKguUdnzPe6CCU7y4c7HvUScBBv5RRLbemr_m5yAZHhie9JCD3AiGIxtsnlHHR6J0dMx5KdOzCQom_XB94G1vmJwKExjeiuuQC/s1600-h/IMG_5695+(600x800).jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyv512Sw2Xss7TrQi_zegOQiN7xOOwxLmBqWmLAaFxb6dKguUdnzPe6CCU7y4c7HvUScBBv5RRLbemr_m5yAZHhie9JCD3AiGIxtsnlHHR6J0dMx5KdOzCQom_XB94G1vmJwKExjeiuuQC/s400/IMG_5695+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385477526616109826" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1A_M8hsaG7iOJPWVko_kcHORRhGgWjkUFI2wgm-9Gde29sapfo_FVIPokFRILDRMAMY1JLQXD6GO0Myd14Ht865kQOyC0HOrQ3bMU3W_3cCgvOCgHE4WbI0h8545XG5wePx9ZsdmLq2af/s1600-h/IMG_5568+(600x800).jpg"></a><span xmlns=""><p>Once again we landed in France. This was the place where we have been before, but not on the French Riviera. This was completely different.<br /></p><p>We had a wonderful house with a small vineyard. I had a water gun with which I shot at the many stray cats. It was strange that they kept on coming back – maybe they were also hot.<br /></p><p>I won my 2 brothers and mother in table tennis. That is what I call "sweet victories". We could also play on the mini pool table. In that game I never won. We also drove to a beach and swam there. It was lovely.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1A_M8hsaG7iOJPWVko_kcHORRhGgWjkUFI2wgm-9Gde29sapfo_FVIPokFRILDRMAMY1JLQXD6GO0Myd14Ht865kQOyC0HOrQ3bMU3W_3cCgvOCgHE4WbI0h8545XG5wePx9ZsdmLq2af/s400/IMG_5568+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385477519745734610" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We went to the French countryside and drove through many old and dirty towns. It was cool to see all the places. On another day we went to Cassis and took a boat to the Calanques. We were on a small boat that went up and down over the waves. We got soaking wet, but it was worth it to see the beautiful nature. Afterwards we swam in the sea at one of the pebble beaches.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiallDtjqX9SD7VonTl8s7OGq3vr1cmo8xlbrTAFmj4xZN3WFyBguLJ1oCat17W6L8zmE-g_Xt4QuQdui9ZYdYP-kMdnr_q8PlqiYzlfNtlQVoHmJHWKVrQiiFdLz0h6aWpeffenr1aseSH/s400/IMG_5963+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385477538980478994" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>Then we moved to another house. This one was very small, but close to the sea. It was not a beach. We swam every day jumping straight in from the rocks. The people in that street talked lots and very loud till late at night.<br /></p><p> Tinus had his birthday there. It was a special day. We went to Vieux Port and the oldest part of Marseille. It was very dirty there. We had supper in a street cafe which I enjoyed. We also visited the Notre Dame De La Garde. It is an old church on top of a hill, from where we could see-in all directions.<br /></p><p>Many French people smoke. I wonder if they do not know how unhealthy and stinky and messy it is!<br /></p><p>Although the people are loud and not so friendly, and the towns are not so clean, we still had a great time. I was glad that we could include the French Riviera in our tour around the world. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgepu7TlCxb5fmzKWgyL_ToB9Sosr572LdUxw_zfwgDr_YKJb7PXcC_qj1JnrPAmPAXHXxDZDhVmc8zguo0QUIxUt5t_VOTJjF9zNwTOKdxFBG1FLknVZr4mRtpLKR31B0Y9uo8_MvoGzK3/s400/IMG_5780+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385477535207819842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-83373332065129466572009-09-20T14:29:00.009+02:002009-09-25T20:41:30.464+02:00Marseille – 20 Aug-5 September (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: left;">In America it is: The bigger, the better. In France it is: The smaller, the better. That mainly includes cars. The best car to have in Marseille – or any other French town – is a Smart. The streets are so narrow, that even the smallest of cars must fold their mirrors away, that's if you still want them. The streets were built in centuries before cars were the mode of transportation and when politeness was a quality that everyone demonstrated.</div><span xmlns=""><p>The other thing very striking of France, is that it is old. The history of previous centuries comes to life before your eyes. It is wonderful that buildings, 100's of years old, are still in full use and standing strong. Unfortunately it is not just very old, but very dirty - everywhere. While driving through Provence and all the towns, the following saying is true: Beautiful from afar, but far from beautiful, when near. Yes, from a distance, everything is picture beautiful. It's the one puzzle-picture or postcard-image on the other one. I was totally trigger happy(that is with my camera). But... if you get closer, you see how dirty everything is. The streets, the buildings, the pavements... Whenever you take a picture, make sure not to include the ground, because it is covered with cigarette ends and beer bottle caps.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjudWquyaqvS46jFw5j016UvJuUpf38J4oD4dgaXru9EJwDn2GQQWCfuy0vQ27Kc8KtPtsgMrYFjT04-xEZAoAH_FB6ks6Wosn5NcbBzyyZqDpd7AgAdXtawW8taEy8HhINSN6Bjfh3aE1F/s400/IMG_5764+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385476330624658530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>That is the one really sad thing of France – the smoking. My guess is that almost 70% of the population above 15 years of age, smoke! That calculation was made counting people who smoked/did not smoke on beaches, in restaurants and on the streets. I must admit that it was not a very scientific calculation, but sadly very close to the truth. Even sadder is that they not only cause other people to smoke with them with the 2<sup>nd</sup> hand smoking, but they also pollute the ground with cigarette ends. Not good...<br /></p><p>However, if you look past the smoke and the dirt, it is beautiful. While driving through Provence, up and down tree covered hills with one small town following the other, we treasured the beauty from afar. We saw the already harvested lavender fields and the hectares full of dead sunflower heads and could imagine just how even more beautiful it will be in June/July – when all is in full bloom. We admired the vineyards loaded with grapes ready for harvest and olive trees in neat rows. We had picnics in forests and on mountain tops and next to rivers. We explored, photographed and travelled Provence and thoroughly enjoyed it.<br /></p><p>One thing that is obvious from the years gone by, is that many battles have been fought. I don't know whether everyone always knew who they were fighting against, because the battles were so many, but they could fight. They also tried to keep the enemy out with very high walls – some still standing strong to this day! (In Namibia we try the same technique with the thieves! I'm not sure who has the most success.) At least, if you count all the churches, you also realize that they knew where their Guidance, Protection and Power came from. The battles are different in this century, and Guidance, Protection and Power is still needed, but I'm not so sure where it is found. The churches are either monuments, with visitors taking pictures, or if it is operating as a church, those attending church services are old people. Whenever entering a church, it became a habit to pray for all people entering the building, the same prayer as what Jesus prayed in John 17: "That they will Know God".<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0wNLm58s_H3ldbewDzy9YcaVKzk6cKkLFlvAOItXRaVXoLXn0wpPF8VFmtUHHPqXtj1tjWloKW_DHv_THCfIQMlMNytXMdYOqGmXax5Jb0HAXruIgPNg1FoBuKNbh1DMg9JJ7uBoFTNEq/s400/IMG_5881+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385476338304211538" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>Although we cannot speak their language, we managed well with a friendly smile, "merci", sign language and Afrikaans. Please do not speak English, they are not very helpful when you do.<br /></p><p> During day time, the pavements are pavements, but at nighttime they all become street cafes. The French people love to sit in a cafe on the pavement on chairs all facing the street. It seems that they always have time and energy for a few hours with friends at the nearest bar. They definitely put a lot of emphasis on their social life. May we also always put great effort into maintaining special friendships and make time to create special memories. <br /></p><p>We had 2 very different houses while in Marseille. We were really blessed to be able to have these different experiences. Both houses, as I think all houses in Marseille , were in neighborhoods where the houses fit in like Lego blocks, or like pieces in a puzzle.<br /></p><p>Our first house had a wonderful backyard, complete with a vineyard canopy and a fig tree. We had all our meals out there in the shade, and enjoyed the French life with fresh grapes daily.</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ZfM5tYpKMdDRBifQGzrHT7WajJ6DWLSnnYMf_Ba3q0Q_ldrnUhaK7Zwx0PbKe3qjYPiSQllIVwXkhlM3PNnSBgLHiEszXGxwqDI4GxVkWWHwbDk39HZuSmKbvi5ehOwHa2D5XG1tOGDC/s400/IMG_5564+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385476326182945058" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>We were woken every morning at 4h00 with the baker next door opening his safety door and chatting in "high volume" with who ever was with him. It surprised us only the first night, and there after it became a comfortable pattern. Although the house is in the main street, it was quiet and peaceful during the daytime. The house also provided comfortable workspace for each one of us and good internet. Another big fun provider at our Rûe de Rabelais house, was the table tennis that filled the passage in front of the house. We had tournaments and play outs and I can officially say that I am ranked nr.5 in the Fourie family. Luckily my self esteem is not tied to my table tennis rating!<br /></p><p>We also had a car while we lived there. Remember that I said a car has to be small? Well this one fit the regulations. It's a Renault Kangoo, very small body, but surprisingly spacious inside. My family even tried to convince me that this must be my next car if I buy a new car! We drove all over Marseille and Provence, a few days even without a GPS, and was grateful each time that we arrived back home. One day we went to Cassis, a small town east of Marseille. We went on a boat to see the Calanques, massive fjords that protrude from the land into the sea. The water is turquoise blue and the scenery was(again) like on postcards. The sea was rough and everyone sitting on the front of the boat, got soaking wet. Although there were about 20 people there when we started, it was only the Namibians who stayed there the whole time. We had so much fun! We were wet to the bone and when we dried, we were like salt pillars, because the water is extremely salty! </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHo_jaPS_D-vxK2oCx0YjfzkrLscdqW4emmcOpnfxY8LmqNaMktAtq3Kh2nKrdsD3_NGv-sOOhsTGQ6KKNxsKfJcfKDzGzhM6VdJuE4U8cq7JeD9jFcHSo_nXmMazw_GfWZQ00DIuQ8x78/s400/IMG_2726+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385476317146899090" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>Afterwards we had a picnic on the beach, where we were the only ones wearing hats. Everyone was just lying in the sun, trying to look like a over baked cookie. Another observation is that the ladies wear only one-piece-swimsuits: only the bikini pants!(Somewhere, some one must have many bikini tops for sale) In any case, we had a wonderful day and no one was burnt.<br /></p><p>Our second house was right on the other side of Marseille. We all drove there, with our luggage, in the Kangoo. We unloaded and Dawie and Charlie went back to house nr.1 to leave the car there. Then they walked all the way back to us. It was 16km, of which most of the way was not pleasant or good for pedestrians. All 5 were very relieved when the doorbell rang. (they saved more than E40, enough for food for a few days!)<br /></p><p>This house is in Rûe de Bouderesque, very close to the sea. This is a very busy, noisy neighborhood, with people moving and talking till very late at night. The street is wide enough for only 1 car, but it is a 2 way street. It is a real art to move in and out of that small, but busy corner of Marseille. We were glad that we did not have a car while living there. We walked everywhere we wanted to be. We went for regular swims, either in the harbour or in the open sea, where you jump in from the rocks. It is special to look at the city from deep within the sea.<br /></p><p>We celebrated Tinus's birthday while we were there, but much have been said about that special day already. Although we did not have internet or workplace for everyone, we still managed to do what was set out for us in our goals. We could also take nice long hikes next to the sea on the path with the longest bench in the world. We loved watching the full moon through the balcony door of our bedroom! Although the moon was always up there, we did not see it so often during the past 8 months and really enjoyed to see it this time.<br /></p><p>Another wonderful thing was, that when we left for our boat cruise, we could pack only 2 bags and left our other luggage in the house and when we returned to Marseille, we had a house to go back to(for 2 days), before leaving on our last leg in this tour around the world.<br /></p><p>Yes, we were blessed with both our houses in Marseille. Yes, we were blessed like all the previous times. We agreed once again, that home exchange is a win-win way to enjoy your holiday. What makes it special for us, especially this year, is that we become "locals" the moment we move in. Then we plan what we will do in this new place(never too much) and we become "slow paced tourists" for a few hours every now and then. The rest of the time we are "home", working, playing, talking, laughing - We love it!<br /></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-63463248545387845882009-09-04T19:26:00.007+02:002009-09-04T19:40:59.693+02:00Birthday Celebration! 3 September 2009 (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSpFzPC1QK7tP-J7jXocAfH5nJ5uknMGfFb7KXFZEMRzdgIcqK8JxgACyoOz_-PL6CKfRd5_k9Wd4wW6wPphabmDLofYps1BFmliON1se6Xl57qDWwHatZ0krC09hWsXFriyk4dvwvZfng/s1600-h/IMG_2882+(600x800).jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4IEX2URYolbZxsstg8tAYZAzFhaUz_qrJX_LuG3N8Sm95t3rqkFDrcNJa4RwS_d_uFvbQAUDetFauiNtpwo4YXKTKiEcsX-FTgF-fMjHyNLwpt5QSVu_S9JyvAjqYckJV1vjcunrbcii_/s1600-h/IMG_2877+(800x600).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4IEX2URYolbZxsstg8tAYZAzFhaUz_qrJX_LuG3N8Sm95t3rqkFDrcNJa4RwS_d_uFvbQAUDetFauiNtpwo4YXKTKiEcsX-FTgF-fMjHyNLwpt5QSVu_S9JyvAjqYckJV1vjcunrbcii_/s400/IMG_2877+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377667323332427634" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Today is the birthday of Tinus, our firstborn! He was born on 03-09-90 and today 03-09-09 , is his 19<sup>th</sup> birthday. If it was not for this year of Grace, he would have been far from us now, but we still had this 1 extra year of him living with us, to celebrate this day with him. And did we celebrate! It lasted this whole day, we did not even work at all, and we officially decided that we will celebrate his birthday the whole of next week as well.</div><span xmlns=""><p> I really want to remember the detail of this special day, that's why I decided to dedicate a blog to this 1 day!<br /></p><p>We woke Tinus early with "Veels geluk, liewe Tinus"(an Afrikaans birthday song), sung in 4 tunes, but passionately. (We did try to sing one melody, but not 1 of us received the talent of singing.) Tinus and Charlie then went for a jog next to the Mediterranean Sea. Then we had a proper breakfast – bacon and eggs! (It was the first since the cruise in May - we usually have cereal) </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifo9nTnaTRhaMUbzJaCkrisuWiiAZlkd8bwCbwtaV9koXowJgdI55eVyCnOjHg9Z5L9bQ7jNfaZ2GU3udVjtO-dTusBlBdgToKkN-GarO-Hf4RpZktFA9Z5hqDokn4j1SINewLK0AKdNzf/s400/IMG_2854+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377667318907342866" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>Dawie also went to the bakery on top of the hill, to buy fresh croissants, and even there we were blessed. He asked the price of 5 croissants, the French lady wrote the amount down (language is a Big problem here)and he said: no thanks, but it's too expensive." She said: "wait", and wrote a much cheaper amount and he said: "Yes, thank you very much, merci!" and she smiled. We were all excited about the special treat, and each had one. When I cleared the table, there were still 2 croissants left in the bag! This lady did not only give us discount, but gave us 2 extra croissants as well! If you've been to France, you will know that this is not their usual way of doing business. (So far we have encountered many near to rude people here.) Praise God for showing us the goodness in people!<br /></p><p>After breakfast, we had our normal family tradition of blessing and praying for the person who has his birthday. Just for the fun of it, we 1st sang the birthday song again (this time in 4 different melodies than earlier) and also a song "We love /bless you with the love of the Lord ". Then we prayed for Tinus – Dawie J, Myself, Charlie and Dawie. It was as if the prayers and blessings were more intense than other times. Perhaps because we realized that we will not do it in this usual way next year – as he will be in Stellenbosch. I think another reason is that he will be entering into a new phase of his life. Perhaps it was just because we appreciate him now, after a close-knit 8 months, even more than before. What I do know is that God heard every one of our requests and will keep him in the Palm of His Hand.<br /></p><p>We then gave him his presents: His Switserland knife, which I've lost, (and he gracefully accepted it), but I discovered it 3 days ago in my bag and did not tell him about it. He was very glad and received it as if it was for the first time! He also received the much needed pair of shoes that we bought him in New York, wrapped up. Also a CD, which also has a special story attached to it. At Willow Creek, Dawie gave each of us a "voucher" to buy something in the bookshop. Tinus had difficulty choosing between a book and a CD, but took the book. Dawie J then, instead of buying something for himself, chose the CD which he knew Tinus liked, and gave it to him on his birthday. Dawie J also colored the magnet for Tinus that Tinus bought in Michigan City. (It still needed coloring in.) Charlie gave him all of the money he received when he sold his dog's puppy earlier this year so that Tinus can buy himself a specific thing he wished to get. And there were cards we made and wrote.<br /></p><p>After those special moments, we all went for a swim at the small harbour near our house. We reminded each other what a real treat this was: swimming together on a Thursday morning! Back home again we enjoyed tea and chocolate cake, which Dawie J baked.<br /></p><p>All of the above took us to 14h00 and we left our house with a long planned mission: Vieux Port, the heart of Marseille. We walked the 3 km to get there, then walked slower and enjoyed the feel of being a tourist. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSpFzPC1QK7tP-J7jXocAfH5nJ5uknMGfFb7KXFZEMRzdgIcqK8JxgACyoOz_-PL6CKfRd5_k9Wd4wW6wPphabmDLofYps1BFmliON1se6Xl57qDWwHatZ0krC09hWsXFriyk4dvwvZfng/s400/IMG_2882+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377667332892304226" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We walked on and on, to La Vieille Charite in Le Panier – the oldest parts of Marseille. La Vieille Charite was built in 1671 to offer a safe place where refuges, orphans and the homeless could have a place to rest. Yes, people do have a good, caring side in them. God made us that way, but unfortunately we also have a dark, selfish side. We all have the ability to good and bad. At the end, it's the one that gets fed most, that will come out. Feed on God and His Word – good will be visible. Feed on the world – bad will be visible. Each must choose. Whoops, that was just a short interruption in my birthday story. Let me continue.<br /></p><p>Dawie(the older one) found a restaurant with WiFi and sat down to work, while the rest of us explored more of Marseille. We joined him at 18h00 to eat. We've planned this weeks ago, that we will have a meal in one of the street restaurants on Tinus's birthday. It was just as we planned it, with the only exception that we found a place much cheaper than what we expected – so we even ended up well below budget! And more than that – we met another friendly Frenchman, our waiter. He even tried to speak English! Tinus could also skype with Ouma, which was good for both of them. We sat there until the sun dropped into the sea. Then we walked the 3km back home.<br /></p><p>We reached home at 21h00. We were happy and fulfilled. We had a special celebration of the birthday of a special young man.<br /></p><p>May God continue to bless you, Tinus and may you walk with Him in righteousness and know Him more and more each day. Thank you for who you are. Thank you that there is so much goodness in you. We love you and we like you!</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLoPAq2ESCsTNpqwed34pDjfQT7K1wYD5no6VEKK2khgmuGEHRcBo8MXzZ6_vaX7SBZESX1ceYvHIZgWcQ0nQ5TWTpNOA_XsrUMa1HRe8vI72RcYl4HWOQ6PMxKzy1mtk-Fbulwm44tyc/s400/IMG_2917+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377667336250258674" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-9999838499069128342009-09-02T19:28:00.010+02:002009-09-02T20:20:41.825+02:00New York, New York! 11-18 August 2009 (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_SAX68YHeDhaBBsddIzZrXoCfnq6Lqxn4X7Rou-Ca2-JilOUKWjLiEMREeUuL_0Xr88jElhHAUQYUoo7QT_n1SykiSYhxhAwQtrT_TBGW8grskRIFh3mnvQsmfrnHg45E9axG8AcQzJk/s1600-h/IMG_5198+(600x800).jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdixKpEi2QP1CjK32-w9AyJAeGULfQcHQbglpzH0M7D9KSLjcOTMr0JrHG1bhSrDs4YgQd2lDnL4pHeVG2d3y3YiqnLVdiMnHZ1cI1ttNKwyQeeQi6LiGK3J314I87XtmSrVnLwAAE79M/s1600-h/IMG_5181+(800x600).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdixKpEi2QP1CjK32-w9AyJAeGULfQcHQbglpzH0M7D9KSLjcOTMr0JrHG1bhSrDs4YgQd2lDnL4pHeVG2d3y3YiqnLVdiMnHZ1cI1ttNKwyQeeQi6LiGK3J314I87XtmSrVnLwAAE79M/s400/IMG_5181+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376924460706305634" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">The blessing that was waiting for us in New York, started 4 weeks before we reached the Big City. Finding no home exchange, we were forced to book a hotel for 1 week and changed our air tickets to fly out on 18 instead of 20 August. While in Georgia, we received a mail from a lady from New York, whom I contacted a year ago about a home exchange (which was impossible at the time). She read our blog and wanted to bless us. "Their family is going on a surprise-tour to Namibia during the same time that we will be in NY and we are welcome to stay in their house – no strings attached!"</div><span xmlns=""><p>Now, if that is not a miracle! We all shouted: "Praise the Lord!" Another miracle was that we could cancel our hotel booking without cost.<br /></p><p>Although we were sad when we left Chicago, we were looking forward to yet another adventure. Our focus was on New York now - what will God teach us and show us in the Big City? Will there be more divine connections, since we already experienced so much blessing through the correspondence with Patty (the lady of the house)? Our sadness about leaving Chicago, turned into fond memories and excitement developed, also since none of us have ever been to NY before.<br /></p><p>We had to take a taxi from La Guardia airport to our house in South Orange, New Jersey. We were shocked to find out that the cheapest taxi was US$ 112,00! We then chose to make the best of the taxi ride and see it as a sight seeing tour. We asked questions and took photos. We drove through 2 tunnels – 1<sup>st</sup> onto Manhattan island and then again to get off the island into New Jersey. The taxi stopped in front of a castle – it was our house!<br /></p><p>The house has 4 storey's. Each boy had his own room with a desk, there was a gym, a swimmingpool...I can go on! We closed some doors – that was "no entry" rooms (less to clean when leaving!) The miracle was real and super big. Glory to God and thank you to the BC-gang for blessing us in such a way!<br /></p><p>As everyone was a little flu-ish and behind on goals, we decided to stay home for the first 2 days. Dawie and myself only went to the nearest grocery store to buy food. Everyone worked hard, making the most of each day, but it felt like holiday all the time – because of what our environment offered. On day 3, the day that we planned to start to explore New York, the vote was to stay home yet another day. At the end we remained in our castle for 5 days without leaving the yard!<br /></p><p>Friday evening we were invited to dinner by our neighbors. What a fantastic evening! We went to their golf club and had to wear our best clothes from our suitcases. It was wonderful food and the conversation was even better. We discussed many different stimulating subjects and knew, this was yet another divine connection God had in stall for us. That evening after we returned home, all 5 of us ended up in our huge bed, and chatted away until after 2h00 in the morning!<br /></p><p>Here is yet another divine connection. Special friends of the BC's (our home's owners), brought us a cherry-pie, our first one in America. Boy, it was a special treat! We invited them to stay for tea and had a delightful visit for many hours. We were privileged to have 2 more such special visits with them .(We surely hope that Paul and Shelley, John and Barbara and their families will come visit Namibia real soon...)<br /></p><p>Sunday morning, day 6 of our 8 days in NY, we left the house! We drove all the way to Brooklyn, crossing 2 long bridges and Staten island to get there. Our destination was the Brooklyn Tabernacle. Once again, Dawie did not make a mistake by the choice of church we visited. The fellowship, the choir, the message, everything was bringing glory to God and food to our souls.<br /></p><p>Back at the house, it was time to pack and clean. We left our castle Sunday evening after a final swim. We drove 10 minutes to our hotel and in the process went from one of the richest to one of the poorest neighborhoods in New Jersey. Back to reality in our 1 small hotel room, but we were grateful to have a safe place to stay and even more so to have the memories of the miracle.<br /></p><p>Monday morning, day 7, was the day for New York City! We decided to go on until we drop. We left at 8h30 and returned, tired but satisfied, at 23h30. We've covered NYC right from the Statue of Liberty up to Time Square – all on foot. </p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_SAX68YHeDhaBBsddIzZrXoCfnq6Lqxn4X7Rou-Ca2-JilOUKWjLiEMREeUuL_0Xr88jElhHAUQYUoo7QT_n1SykiSYhxhAwQtrT_TBGW8grskRIFh3mnvQsmfrnHg45E9axG8AcQzJk/s400/IMG_5198+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376924473249181074" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p>We really experienced the city! What's more, is that we also got our very first suntan of the whole tour in NYC! It was a hot, sunshine day and the boat trip on the Hudson river in the NYC harbour, was the right setting to "feel summer".</p><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpsmj88oKjBCa0eE1aPev80juXkVeGQgcMH7f2c5070fRn6yPe0eLz6-M-UnZqgnNgRqxYptppgG95WV-V9SCMrzXc-EmZlwal3aPvNx34dTBE0Xdvq-Pzh3FHUg1F-xnXO6bTWbP8npp/s400/IMG_5346+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376924475327027266" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>Dawie already wrote about some of the sites we passed as we walked for miles and miles. I want to add one personal experience: the horror of 9/11 became a different reality as we saw the gap where the Twin Towers once were, as we walked where people died and read the stories in the churches, which became havens during those days. America's face and heart was ripped open. Oh, the horror of where human minds can go to! Oh, the ability to love that people have in them to care for others in need! As we sat in a nearby small park, I had time to meditate on this. And then the terrifying thought of how often we go down that road of destruction – with a word we say, or even something we insinuate, something we do, or something we neglect to do –so many different ways how we can hit each other in the face, and then move on. A terrible, but true picture of this world we live in.</p><p>I realized that 2 things are necessary to overcome any a tragedy and to live a satisfying, abundant life in this world. The first action step is that you have to forgive to become free of the hurt of the past, otherwise you allow the horror of the past to continue to harm you. The second thing is to hold on to the Hope that there is in Jesus Christ, to walk as He has walked, to live His love to the people around you and in that way be part of the goodness that there can be in the world. I found a good summary of guidelines on how to live the good life:</p><p><span style="font-family:Georgia;"><span style="color:maroon;"><strong>Mic 6:8</strong></span> The LORD God has told us what is right and what he demands: "See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God."</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Georgia;">May we all find the courage to live this way. May we be willing to submit ourselves to the Lord and be part of the solution and not the problem!</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Georgia;">After 9/11 New York went on with life, and we also continued our journey. We walked the whole day, stopping, looking, chatting, taking pictures and walking. We had picnic in one of the many parks, we sat at the tables which are conveniently on the islands in the middle of Broadway and simply watched and enjoyed, and we walked. </span></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyzuN2JKegC8yeDEsaqnl3qtDm8Ht83IjlAGrlMxJuOy2zj3oOx3w4ADlREHQ_oY6Oa1J39zXuA4Jvn8l8ZQl9YxFnb43CtOyG8Fghb7ln1a42GZ-S-TmiOiEqO7zuEzvyn8npnGr7Ue4/s400/IMG_2102+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376924457540001810" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Georgia;">We loved it. We walked till way past sunset and was greeted at Time Square with millions of lights, 360 degrees around us. There were as many people as there were lights. It was vibrant, alive, fun and so New York!</span></p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDvTLM7OhbcC3iugY8psOptVTIv_t7QEfYwZ1OKJMza6qbnCUDg5jb7A5OR2t6w32bEtf_o_PDEYGxlU7OOU3YTbVP3Yf3hOUdyFwSzmHghq86jyMyL2K4OtwlxpRI4hPhS48J6Io84H3/s400/IMG_5411+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376924479656874210" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /><p>Tuesday morning came too soon, but we were up and ready. This time we went to Central park where we walked, sat, played ball and walked - enjoying this massive park in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the Big City. We walked south to Penn Station, past Time Square (still as many lights, but not as impressive as during nighttime) and were on time for the 13h30 train. Our destination was our castle in South Orange. The BC's were home, and we went there to meet them and personally say thank you. The visit was a blessing, we said good-bye as true friends.<br /></p><p>Back at the hotel, we had a short time to pack and go to the airport. It was time to greet New York, but more than that – it was time to greet the USA.<br /></p><p>Oh, what a wonderful 7 days we had in NY and what a wonderful 4 months we had in America! This was good, very good times. We could become part of the locals, but we could also stay objective and look from the outside. We learned many different lessons: we took note of the many things we liked and appreciated and will make sure that it will be true of us as well AND we also recognized the wrongs, the mistakes and can learn from that and take extra care to avoid the wrong roads.<br /></p><p>If my place was not in Namibia, Africa and God gives me the choice to live any place else, I,and the rest of my family, will choose America.<br /></p><p>We were blessed to be able to live and learn there for 4 months of our lives. Thank you God for the abundant life we have in You!</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOX_37eOITr_ZJ0eQtT3TIodb27fL8dJmdVcIMRRpct91IIZb__CfrY7icAweZeXYNneheE-IY643RKiEZT_562e2dF7wug8csTRUelLdh2pMz_obfxPYohC-xkNPuN26ERtcAe8YsX1OZ/s400/IMG_5458+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376924601658814562" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-35168846775335673902009-09-01T20:38:00.011+02:002009-09-01T20:51:59.464+02:00Chicago 26 July – 11 Aug (Dawie J)<span xmlns=""><p>Chicago was great. There is such a beautiful skyline and we had a nice home the first 12 days and then went to a hotel (near Willow Creek) for 5 days.<br /></p><p>We went up the Willis Tower to the Skydeck. There were spectacular views, it feels as if you're on the top of the world. It was cool to stand on the glass balcony and look right down to the street 103 storeys below!</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOZXv6Cb50Pf2H9kriF-blCVxk-LCQYiDntm3Q-LooWomWTB8lpyErV-w4UA0sy_L4g73J7SH1-N8YUMKWi37oKhVc-gawSu_C5qai3zx_wc0soU73BwlIbiggXUPsi_KUF7xL87TrxAI/s1600-h/IMG_4729+%28600x800%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOZXv6Cb50Pf2H9kriF-blCVxk-LCQYiDntm3Q-LooWomWTB8lpyErV-w4UA0sy_L4g73J7SH1-N8YUMKWi37oKhVc-gawSu_C5qai3zx_wc0soU73BwlIbiggXUPsi_KUF7xL87TrxAI/s400/IMG_4729+%28600x800%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376572887086392466" border="0" /></a></p><p>We played cricket in Lincoln Park, and I came 2<sup>nd</sup> after my dad (who always wins). We often also played mini-cricket in the small area next to our house.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOp4KbMtyr79w3J3ZtE-j5ssS3l56YncEgt5q9Vl43GKmc-18YHVQ9k4v6QQvEaZT5ItjPJf-H1-UmhxHM2rJNUIPQjwEw_TYVVqOMGDrYmM-E93Rn0mn3vo5myOn_JXisjvmSBZ4TD2vW/s1600-h/IMG_4989+%28800x600%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOp4KbMtyr79w3J3ZtE-j5ssS3l56YncEgt5q9Vl43GKmc-18YHVQ9k4v6QQvEaZT5ItjPJf-H1-UmhxHM2rJNUIPQjwEw_TYVVqOMGDrYmM-E93Rn0mn3vo5myOn_JXisjvmSBZ4TD2vW/s400/IMG_4989+%28800x600%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376572888882470578" border="0" /></a></p><p>The visit to the Science and Industry museum was great. Me and my 2 brothers went. We saw the German U-boat (World War II submarine) and many other interesting things. Tinus and Charlie explained all the stuff that I did not understand. It is a privilege to have 2 older brothers like them.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiAzngeRCQ4Jm4eMlTPGuNh7QkKjYJsJOCj-nThpurRIXFmp7bIl3i-LD2FwhPIG80GSt86PjMrvrKGGsZxJEGNn-hjvoAwM7Dr9MG7pVfKuHU6dvCpzKgvRcqkskLo99AHbkzlO0Yz4T/s1600-h/IMG_1780+%28800x600%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiAzngeRCQ4Jm4eMlTPGuNh7QkKjYJsJOCj-nThpurRIXFmp7bIl3i-LD2FwhPIG80GSt86PjMrvrKGGsZxJEGNn-hjvoAwM7Dr9MG7pVfKuHU6dvCpzKgvRcqkskLo99AHbkzlO0Yz4T/s400/IMG_1780+%28800x600%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376572876575195250" border="0" /></a></p><p>My parents and brothers went to the Leadership Summit and I did not have a place to stay. I worried about it. We asked God to provide a place for me to stay. That really put my faith to a test. A family we have not met before, invited me to stay with them. So, I went to the Lowmans on Thursday. I had so much fun, that I asked to stay with them on the Friday as well, instead of staying in the Hotel room. I learned that to trust God, is the best and that when God provides, He provides the best!<br /></p><p>Once we went to a restaurant as a special treat. It was buffet. We stayed there for 4 hours, not because we ate so much, but because we talked so much! I just love to be part of my family. We loved the eating as well!<br /></p><p>Now I say good bye!<br /></p><p> </p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-35510088048804352382009-09-01T20:38:00.007+02:002009-09-01T20:48:17.672+02:00What I’ve Learned: Germany (Tinus) 1 September 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKzoUj3XOCTJitxHstiwB0oQt6qlzFg8wD4ZM_YzqgT9yTPef8Uwm1Wm12i20hWZr8W6RxqmAKK1sWoIGswETrJ4fWTfNYmAF1JWKM382YA20b5GTJHQWBroo6vwoucQhqMyqCy3ApsEW/s1600-h/IMG_0343+%28800x600%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKzoUj3XOCTJitxHstiwB0oQt6qlzFg8wD4ZM_YzqgT9yTPef8Uwm1Wm12i20hWZr8W6RxqmAKK1sWoIGswETrJ4fWTfNYmAF1JWKM382YA20b5GTJHQWBroo6vwoucQhqMyqCy3ApsEW/s400/IMG_0343+%28800x600%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376572726702107858" border="0" /></a><br /><span xmlns=""><p>I guess I knew I was behind schedule when we revisited Germany before my post on what I learned the first time round, was published. Ironically (or tragically, to be more truthful) the very thing I chose to remember from my Germany experience is the axiom: "Do it, do it right, do it now."<br /></p><p>Slightly embarrassed, I am thus doing it right now.<br /></p><p>Every time I visit Germany (OK, I have only been there twice, but it is certainly true of both those occasions) I am struck by the efficiency and excellence with which the Germans do everything. From the passport control to the coffee machines to the bathrooms. Everything just works. I respect them for that.<br /></p><p>Funny though, that it was a Lufthansa airplane (on our flight from New York to Munich) that had a malfunctioning in-flight entertainment system.<br /></p><p>Elaborate on my axiom, I cannot do too much of though. You'll agree that it does not address a part of my life I am particularly proud of. All I can do is shorten it even more: "Do Right Now" and make a few comments.<br /></p><ul><li>Doing the right things adequately is far better that doing the wrong things beautifully.<br /></li><li>Do whatever you do to the best of your ability, as for the Lord.<br /></li><li>Do not postpone.<br /></li></ul><p>I realize that this installment on what this tour has taught me is woefully short, but true it is nonetheless. I can also proudly assert that I shall continue learning...especially in this regard.<br /></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-16562712170341232552009-09-01T20:38:00.006+02:002009-09-01T20:47:47.440+02:00Chicago, Chicago (21 Jul – 6 Aug)Charlie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtD2oFjAngmWsKuXSP7ldee3Uc2ezMUhjI7rO9B_jPhPn5tyiWXAzbcf7mEC6yRx4DdBzqukEk_PV6SWPmJCuAy_nC2BBx5I2qB6I00uwyhrNcuHPOgGG6imchZmZy0vqXhnuHDCNu0xn4/s1600-h/IMG_4930+%28800x600%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtD2oFjAngmWsKuXSP7ldee3Uc2ezMUhjI7rO9B_jPhPn5tyiWXAzbcf7mEC6yRx4DdBzqukEk_PV6SWPmJCuAy_nC2BBx5I2qB6I00uwyhrNcuHPOgGG6imchZmZy0vqXhnuHDCNu0xn4/s400/IMG_4930+%28800x600%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376572313695571554" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span xmlns=""><p>A lot has been said about this memorable stop on our world tour and although all stops were definitely memorable, this one was especially special. Although I am currently in the south of France and still behind on a lot of blogs I still deem it necessary to elaborate on my own experiences and feelings about the windy city. I am sure that at the end of this tour, we will be able to recall a lot of special things from our memory, but I know that as soon as we start thinking the first memories that jumps impulsively into our heads will be that of Chicago.<br /></p><p>As you know already from my mother's blogs, the first week after landing at the Chicago's O'Hare airport was one of adventure and discovery. It was, by the grace of God, one of the very few times we had nothing planned in terms of where we will stay or in what we will stay! We were left to challenge the void of imagination and adventure in our thoughts. The only problem at the beginning of these few days was that everyone started to think for a change. Usually we plan the basic things beforehand and then during our time there the tour co-ordinator, my mother, would make suggestions as to what she felt had to be done. In these few days on the other hand, we didn't even have the basic stuff planned… Luckily we booked one thing ahead of time which was the car. That helped us more than you could ever imagine. You see, if you have wheels, your horizon of possibilities becomes broader by the second. In retrospect I think it was a good thing but at that time I wasn't sure if more possibilities was making things easier or more difficult.<br /></p><p>So it all began… We climbed in our newly rented Cadillac and hit the road with absolutely no idea of where we were off to. We impulsively just decided to stay on the I- 90 E and see where that leads us. It took us past the city, past all Chicago's beautiful skyscrapers and finally out of Illinois. Then we were a bit unsure of what to do next, because as soon as we brought the inevitable question to the table a kaleidoscope of different views and ideas flushed through the car. Where were we headed? That question still remains a companion to me, not only in the practical sense of where to travel but in life as to where we will take our own life, where will we steer our own ship? After a lot of arguing, we decided to take it further in a stationary position, off of the interstate. The big problems was different paradigms, predictions and thoughts as at what this will consist of. A few of us felt that this was always going to be a road trip. Where we would put many American miles under our belts. Others felt like making it a more personal journey through the country, experiencing everything a single place has to offer, progressing slowly. At the end we came to the conclusion that everyone imagined these few days differently and that we needed to do more research about the area. Thus we headed to the Indiana Visitor's Centre.<br /></p><p>Unfortunately it was already closed. We saw this as a decision being made for us. That night we would spend close to the Visitor's centre. The next morning we spent another two hours to decide where to go and in all the confusion I think we all saw the light. Simultaneously we decided to make it the best of both worlds. We were going to give attentive detail to the country but also put a few miles between us and Chicago. Thus it worked out perfectly in the end. We never got tired of driving and we got to see a variety of people and places. You might wander as to what gave us the necessary insight and wisdom. It was after we prayed and began to make sacrifices on our own terms and began to think of the other people in the family that we could come to a conclusion. This was a special few days for me, not only because of the beautiful places we could see, but because of the insight on the way I would steer my life's direction, in the wake of God's leadership!<br /></p><p>After the week of adventure, unfortunate confrontation and reconsolidating freedom we headed back towards Chicago. From the beginning, Chicago had been on our list of places we had to visit because of the Willow creek Community Church. So when we thought about the few days without agenda beforehand, we came to one agreement. We had to be back on the Sunday to go to the Willow service. Thus, when heading towards Chicago, after these few days, we stopped by Willow on our way there. It was then that we got another taste of a beautiful, working church in the will of God. Thinking back now, I can only thank and praise God for leading us to so many inspirational churches. There is truly nothing like the local church when it is functioning according to the will of God. Not only did the worship capture the individuals Spirit in the essence of God, but the sermon captivated the soul, enlightening God's greatness. We got to listen to David Nasser. I will elaborate more on his service next time. After this first enriching service at Willow we headed to our new house which would become our home away from home for the next 10 days.<br /></p><p>This apartment was in the heart and soul of a beautiful part of the city. Certainly not the most wealthy part, but one of the most enjoyable parts. Yes, our new apartment was in Lincoln park. Not in down town but a bit to the north west. Still, it was near enough to jog to downtown and to see the John Hancock side of the skyline from the lake side. It was situated about 2,5 km from the great lake. Thus setting up a beautiful opportunity for jogging to and next to the lake. It is so beautiful in day and night that jogging really becomes a dream. It appeared as the destination where it would be perfect to get a few running miles behind our backs and as it appeared, it was.<br /></p><p>We got up early some mornings and ran our hearts out. Other days we would take an afternoon run. This for me was the most special. Not because of the beautiful colors in the sky, but because of all the people that joined us in exercise. All around us, there appeared locals with roller blades, bikes and the ever trustworthy running shoe. Chicago is certainly a calorie burning machine! There are people who says that the location isn't that important when you run - I was one of those. When I first ran in Chicago my views changed. Running certainly is a breeze there! Although the breeze may be in my face, I still enjoedy it because of all the beauty and because of all the people doing it with you. I could also learn from this that when there are others doing something with you, it is easier, although they even might be headed in the other direction.<br /></p><p>More about our apartment. The whole apartment was in an old, small Chicago house basement. It was a bit of a downsizing from the Atlanta house and mountain cabin, but it still was a lot more worth than a hotel room. We spend those ten days mostly in our small apartment. It was a fruitful week for work, but also an eye-opener to what city culture and diversity could be like. During our few afternoons and days off, we did a few memorable Chicago city ventures including the Willis Tower Sky Deck, Lincoln Park zoo, Millennium Park, Navy pier and the Museum of Science and Industry.<br /></p><p>The Sky Deck was an experience that left me feeling above the clouds – literally! Beforehand, being a Namibian, I felt a strange sense of awe and admiration as well as a bit of fear staring at the humongous structure. Before even going up I could understand that the Lord truly wants us to reach our full potential for the age we live in. When climbing in the elevator I felt a bit unsure… This feeling was futile though, because the elevator started to move. We went up, and up and up, surpassing other structural landmarks on the way. When we rose above the Eifel with 20 floors to go, a new feeling entered my thoughts, excitement! After my ears popped a few times we got to the 103 floor… I stepped out and saw the beauty of a skyline I've seen before, only this time it was from above! Everything was breathtaking! The lake in the east, the sunset in the west, everything! When we got down I felt an aspiration to reach my full potential and let God take me to new heights in my life!<br /></p><p>Lincoln Park zoo was on the list only because it is for free, one of very few zoos in the world that are still free. Summarizing that experience, I did feel a bit sorry for the creatures in captivity because my own spirit is free, but I saw it as an opportunity for people who do not have the privilege to go to the wild, to see these animals there! Millennium Park is coupled not only with beauty in sight but in hearing as well. We went to the park to see a full orchestra performance. It was my first an definitely not my last. It was beautiful, even though I do not have an expert's ear for music. It will bring out the classical side in Rambo!<br /></p><p>The Navy pier, also synonymous to Chicago, was an experience of cultural hospitality and restful pleasure. When you walk on to the navy pier, you not only walk and see the skyline but you drift through all the cheerful laughter and restaurant smells. All around there are tourists busy buying tickets for a boat ride or standing in the line to buy a Bud light. The locals could be found on the bicycle / jogging / skating trail and in one of the many restaurants each with a unique and special atmosphere. We, on the other hand, could not be found on a boat trip, in a restaurant or in a line to buy beer. We had the lovely privilege of attending Aladdin, the musical, at the Shakespeare theater at the Navy pier. After that joyous, funny and intriguing experience, we enjoyed the essence of pleasant atmosphere and cheerful conversing by walking around the pier.<br /></p><p>Another experience of a life time and a must do when visiting Chicago is a visit to the Museum of Science and Industry. Me and my two "engineer to be" brothers were the lucky ones selected to go. There were a lot of very interesting things, but I want to only name a few. We couldn't nearly get to everything it had to offer. I think that a annual pass wouldn't even be enough! Immediately when you enter, you are astonished by the mere size of the place, not even knowing of the beauties there are to follow. The highlight of the place was definitely the German WWII U-boat that was captured by the Americans during the war. It was a testament as to what man is capable of and how beautifully God has made us. Unfortunately it is also a symbol of how atrocious war is and how we should all keep striving for peace. I mean, you know something is bad, when the enemy that is captured is glad because they are freed from the clutches of war. Another highlight was the model train track from Chicago To Seattle occupying a whole hall. The detail and the story around it was astonishing. There was so much more we learned and enjoyed, but I do not have that much time to spend on blogging!<br /></p><p>Before moving away from Lincoln Park, Tinus and I decided that Chicago is definitely the best place to attempt your first half-marathon. So, two nights before we moved closer to Willow, we decided to do it! We set off at about seven o'clock, planning to run in the dark on the way back to experience the skyline from all angles in all its lit up glory. The first 6 km were a breeze! Beautiful scenery and ABBA ringing in my ears, life seemed right. It was after 8 km that I started to feel a bit of pain in my leg, but I was still okay. The scenery of the sky line and lake kept changing and held remarkable beauty. When we turned at the half way mark it was completely different again. The Skyline now gave its own light and gave a totally new running inspiration! After 15km everything started to cramp up. I had pain in my legs in places I didn't know existed ! We kept on going despite the pain and finally reached the finish line. It was a big achievement! Although everything was sore for the next week, I felt great!</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIsLf4_3IVViwPuBOYFyQ9mywdTbTt1OZjCJioLok123-kTA3i4-O9Alwf50VxQ8e6p5gso1dJebJ5MSnCacFjjlPD8qeiJ_ipUMxilLiubjNPwzDjnOxFvN5MdEiVOGF3eAPLaxaLXUiK/s1600-h/IMG_4983+%28600x800%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIsLf4_3IVViwPuBOYFyQ9mywdTbTt1OZjCJioLok123-kTA3i4-O9Alwf50VxQ8e6p5gso1dJebJ5MSnCacFjjlPD8qeiJ_ipUMxilLiubjNPwzDjnOxFvN5MdEiVOGF3eAPLaxaLXUiK/s400/IMG_4983+%28600x800%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376572321744363250" border="0" /></a></p><p>I hope You understand a bit more of the beauty of Chicago now and feel part of the city. In my next blog I will elaborate on the last week in Chicago, which is all about the Leadership summit!</p><p><br /></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NEGIKpeGki7wJiSLpqfe__2CGsfUO1Ag6ncTGom5gStiO6Jhs7SFvR6B2CgumkAu3EMZ9qLSsEma5lJXrdV9cC_ZK2iSzKHn7JF2YN2irwdp9cCPFkJSxTKcXP9LIs1UVnV7EYJmNZXq/s1600-h/IMG_4868+%28600x800%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NEGIKpeGki7wJiSLpqfe__2CGsfUO1Ag6ncTGom5gStiO6Jhs7SFvR6B2CgumkAu3EMZ9qLSsEma5lJXrdV9cC_ZK2iSzKHn7JF2YN2irwdp9cCPFkJSxTKcXP9LIs1UVnV7EYJmNZXq/s400/IMG_4868+%28600x800%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376572306183247554" border="0" /></a></p><p><br /></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-91106521553132806292009-08-30T13:04:00.008+02:002009-08-30T16:32:41.678+02:00Chicago – 26 July – 11August (Chrisna)<div style="text-align: left;">It was a mistake! Procrastination is never good, even if you think you have a good reason- and that is what I did. I kept postponing to write a blog on Chicago, and then on New York and I had a good reason: There was so much to say and so little time to say it. There was never enough time to sit down and pen down all that I felt inside, always something more important to be done, and now I realize that I cannot postpone any more, this is the more important thing right now. But now I have a new problem. There is so much bottled up inside of me, Chicago way down in the bottle, on top of that New York and now even on top of that, Marseille and the French Riviera! It was definitely a mistake to wait so long...</div><span xmlns=""><p>Let me shake my bottle, and let it all just fall out!...........<br /></p><p>Chicago was special, very special. We had a special time in Chicago, very special.<br /></p><p>We were sad to leave Chicago.<br /></p><p>Why? Many different reasons, let me name a few: the beauty, the friendliness, the skyline, the lake, the classical music concerts in the park, the miles and miles of paths for hiking and jogging, the small Chicago apartment we lived in so close to the lake, the many free things to do, the sunrise and sunset, the church, the Leadership summit, the divine connections...<br /></p><p> We started off on a bad foot with our home exchange being cancelled. But,this was the only bad part of Chicago. We spent many hours on the internet to find other accommodation and eventually succeeded. We rented an apartment in the basement of a 3 storey building in Lincoln Park. We had the most wonderful landlord, who even gave us a special discount rate and 1 day for free! Miracles happen even in the business world. (If you ever want to go to Chicago, contact us for her detail.)<br /></p><p>We had our "goal-meeting" on day 2, and worked very disciplined. During breaktimes, we sat outside in the 3m wide piece of land between our house and the neighboring one and drank tea, or played cricket in that same area. The road is so narrow, with cars parked on both sides of the street, that you have to fold the car's mirrors flat!</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRw2m0kN4sPTKIcVaPFJSyFFWgADvKfeXxtaeEcWpF2KEM9acc0LHKxXkVmgaz8ZGWncU75I70vmBeKJ4OEfrVC-leVgITQiysip7qx-uGPviM6eel2h_1Jpvu5ABkOpcZMovMSEAGtZm-/s400/IMG_4709+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375763951900270802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p><p> From our house to the lake, was 2km. Sometimes we walked from the house to the lake and back, sometimes we drove to the lake, parked, and walked along the lake for 1 hour. This was our daily exercise. </p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNMd0MY9Tw3Swl5Teblo3sluk5fP8v3YGcZCwWDN4DkpLc1O6wATSNbihqrMcgEY5yb2M4N1XKZWEMTmjgy4t4LMggx69fgBW_PcCR5KkKLHZcwLjWRqpt6HdgmpNf43sNSHgh5rF2YO_l/s400/IMG_4934+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375763968459468674" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></p><p>We were there before sunset and walked till it was dark – seeing the colour of the sky change and the city lights go on. We were also there before sunrise, saw the sun lighting up yet another day and the city lights being switched off. Whatever time of day, it was always beautiful – the sky, the lake, the skyline of the city.</p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWDL3Hzh45zukn6s3FclShm-3nyTUb3ZTw3F6JYwBXkBlQ-wMKJpq22hWqLnnnwy0pjJSrtFThRy17uW3_DgZ39Hwlh19-30GYU9M2stlx5SeByunT8b8M4QXY23mZ2bEpZSH5bmWTZ9t/s200/IMG_1662+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375763054963621026" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /><p>We did not only admire the skyline from down below, but also from the top of it all. Yes, we went up the Willis (formerly Sears) tower (for many years the tallest building in the world, but after Dubai's building spree, the highest in USA). We went all the way up to floor 103. If I had a choice, I would have stayed on the ground, but my 4 men took me up. And was I glad they did. What a beautiful sight! Again we saw the setting of the sun and the city lights flickering on. Yes, we were on top of it all, and we were all very excited and appreciated the outing. We were also glad that we could use an elevator this time – and not like always climb to the top!<br /></p><p>Mondays are free days at the History Museum. We took this opportunity specifically to see the exhibition on the life of Abraham Lincoln, a great leader. We were impressed with more than his leadership skills alone, because at the same time we could see the good leadership and planning the leaders of the city of Chicago had centuries ago. The beautiful city and many parks did not just happen by coincidence, it was planned. A quote of Daniel Burnham at the entrance of the Willis tower sums it all up: "Make no little plans, they have no magic to stir mens blood." </p><p>Dream, Plan, Action (this is my quote!)<br /></p><p>We were also blessed to visit with a Namibian girl who lives in Chicago for 5 years already. Her mother gave her details to my mother and we made contact. What a special and brave young lady Nadine is! She stays with a family where she takes 100% care of the children and cooks for the family, while at the same time studying full time. It was wonderful to spend time and share stories in Afrikaans and to make a new friend! Her parents can be so proud of her and Namibia can only hope that she will return, because she will surely be an asset to our country.<br /></p><p>The 3 services we attended at Willow Creek Church, as well as the Leadership Summit were obviously highlights. Luckily Dawie shared about that experience, so I will not write about it now other than to say: "Thank you God, for allowing us this blessing!" It was also good to see other Namibians at the conference and as we greeted them on their way back home, to know: we will also return, Namibia is where God wants to have us, but not now, not just yet. (Oh, Thank you that we still have 2 months left before going home...)<br /></p><p>What I want to write concerning Willow, is to tell about another miracle that happened to Dawie J and us while we attended the Leadership conference. This lady, Karen, and I corresponded via e-mail about a possible home exchange, which could not work out. When she asked whether all of us will attend the conference, I told her that only Dawie J will not, and she invited him to stay with them. We took Dawie J to these complete strangers on the first day of the conference . When we dropped him there that morning, I had complete peace in my heart. When we went to fetch him, he asked to go there again the next day! They invited us to dinner and we spend the evening with them, parting at midnight as friends. </p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWNV6aOsb0NoPlECSctaSvOkrDPVrEGOqcHv0LiJXuX4wo_mlfxmxBiZLxq7hRUnmOBTPsBYPEa_lJ7hO-d7N0xBPfjLLAtwkc_q8cJZK-324PJFFqTIbyi_5QfE5AtwJR7Qw1m4pFtmEL/s200/IMG_5008+(800x600).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375763332887567554" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /><p>Friday evening, fetching Dawie J, we were again invited to dinner and enjoyed yet another feast and wonderful fellowship. All three children plays different instruments, and we were blessed with beautiful violin and piano music. (Were we perhaps in heaven for a while?) We had such a special feeling for Lane, Karen and their children in our hearts, that we went back to them on Monday, just to say good-bye. Needless to say, a short good-bye ended up in a feast! Psalm 133:1 (NIV) How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!</p><p>Both Dawie and I had very significant meetings with different people during our Chicago stay. God surely loves to surprise us as He uses us as His instruments. He gives the wisdom when we are out of our comfort zones and can use us even outside of our SHAPE, the only thing we must do is to say: "Yes, Lord".</p><p>As I write and write, I understand why I continuously postponed to write about Chicago. We had such wonderful times there and made wonderful special new friends. My words do not do justice to what we truly experienced, and I think that I always felt that my writing will be inadequate to show the whole picture, so it was easier to postpone! Now it is inadequate, but at least something is written. May this be enough to remind us in years to come of how sweet Chicago tasted...<br /></p><p>Thank you God, for blessing us in such a way – yet again. Thank you also for using us in different ways in the lives of different people and to use different people to build into our lives. You did it in every single place we called home, even if it was for a few days, during this fast speeding year of 2009! Thank you!</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNe5jKji9yYjjh-S3Jlfj_soIc7BjwvHUG2SBSlr27ztv0D6wn5zSPwfiqyVjdulG6ox_HstCdaobGgz5M4YVx9s9-TqHyPKNMdaphw7olbHDNDGzl6tdDT0nc5RbeR7VycFOKeWxa0ug/s400/IMG_4854+(600x800).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375763962247720210" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-484289625541530852009-08-25T15:26:00.010+02:002009-08-30T13:22:33.070+02:00New York – the giant and 9/11 (Dawie) – 26 August 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ksSIni-V1osdFYZ66cP4I79NZtSPRXEN3F68bjJvZrBJnB8Y8lNsOdgvZLljtyCBTM02tD_AJCkijxQuUPzt_a1BCN5Mceac5U-qmnxF8Jr_yoFOpXc0iRvMbOeYb_TBKfbjvWaYYarq/s1600-h/IMG_5249+%28800x600%29.jpg"></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I have seen most of the places in America we have included in our world tour before. New York I have never been to. I therefore had some strange kind of expectancy to visit this "giant" in magnitude and significance, especially in the financial world.</div><span xmlns=""><p>The planning was tough, because we could not find a home exchange and the city is expensive compared to other American cities (By the way; our experience is that Europe is more expensive than America).</p><p>The Lord blessed our visit in an unique way. A few weeks before our arrival in NY, a woman who read our blog mailed us and offered their home (though palace would describe it better) to us...for free. They were going to Namibia during the same period and, allthough all their accomodation was completely arranged allready, just wanted to bless us.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7sM8YKeamkrbWQahB8wZ5smWA0Fl2waRfYGmMHUJsJs_0OiNOELbpqDl3mD172IdDqe5_POj7wUlcXwwndnTr0ekb6vedOJRcjVsJfhOLOCD2wjhuvn8WsikZfBFuogU0v038KUCefpzW/s400/IMG_5069+%28600x800%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375709429773129090" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span></p><p>Their neighbors took us for dinner, their friends brought us American pie and offer us the most precious visits and friendship. From our "palace" we had the most beautiful view of New York. There was a pool table, swimming pool and a separate room & working space for each one! And those are just the highlights... We spent a week in their house and two days in New York city itself, walking for tens of kilometers and visiting numerous places of interest. A truly memorable week. My family will elaborate more on the detail.</p><p>Let me share a different thought and an expression or two with you. But, before I start, let me just add a quick disclaimer. I respect America as a nation tremendously and would choose to immigrate there if I was to leave Namibia. My comments are thus born from a deep respect and love.<br /></p><p>Ten million people in one city are a lot. Everything is massive and excessive: buildings, accommodation, public transport, number of cars and feet on the streets, shops, number of police vehicles, etc. It is amazing how they manage to create some kind of "slower pace" in the chaos created by the numbers, by having numerous parks and relaxing chairs and tables beside the streets.<br /></p><p>We walked the Mecca of the financial world...Wall street and Broadway. We walked past the American Stock Exchange, New York Stock Exchange and massive financial institutions' buildings (all of whom received billions of US$ as "bail out" money very recently). We also visited the site where they are constructing the new building where the twin towers stood. We spent a long time in the Trinity Church – less than 100 meters from all of this!<br /></p><p>I reflected deeply on 9/11, when terrorists brought the capitalistic world's icons down. Churches, I have been told, were full for a few weeks after that day. Just to decline in numbers soon afterwards.</p><p>Last year, Wall street recorded it's worse "bear trend" ever and millions of Americans lost their houses, jobs and the majority of their pension. </p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ksSIni-V1osdFYZ66cP4I79NZtSPRXEN3F68bjJvZrBJnB8Y8lNsOdgvZLljtyCBTM02tD_AJCkijxQuUPzt_a1BCN5Mceac5U-qmnxF8Jr_yoFOpXc0iRvMbOeYb_TBKfbjvWaYYarq/s200/IMG_5249+%28800x600%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375709874932077506" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" border="0" /><p>Although annalists speculate on a possible recovery and even a "little bull run", others pointed out that the average American owes more than N$ 60 000 on their credit cards. The possible "write offs" imbedded in the latter, may force the American government to extent it's U$700 billion "bail out" package to the private sector. Not good news, baring in mind that their newly elected President, who just rent an island for his family's vacation at a rate of only N$ 350 000 per week, is in the process of extending/improving the health care options for 50 million Americans (while very little is being done about the two thirds af Americans who are obese) and extending the war in Afghanistan. These initiatives will most probably not be funded from "their trading account!" Will America borrow from the Chinese again?</p><p>If an individual spent more than he earns, he will have to sell assets to fund the deficit or borrow more from someone else to finance it. The same principle applies to businesses and governments. Is it possible that the leaders of the free economic system twisted it so far that their rights and comfort, through their own money, became their own god? Meaning that they are turning away from the Father, Son and Holy Spirit to worship something else...Interesting that Jesus said in Matthew 6:24 (NIV)<br /><sup>24 </sup><span style="color:red;">"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.</span><br /> </p><p>As I read through the Old Testament again, I was struck by how an "abundantly loving-kind Heavenly Father" tried to do everything possible that His people will not turned away from Him. But, it seems to me, this is exactly what happened all over the years, again and again...for 6000 years. Is it possibly true that this very special American nation who wrote in their constitution and even today on their money that "in God we trust," is turning away from their God?<br /></p><p>Often on long roadtrips, Tinus plays us a "podcast" or message from one of his favorite preachers. In one of these, Louie Giglio said that we are all worshippers. We will worship what we value the most. Period. What we value the most will consume us and what will consume us, will conform us. What we will be conformed to, will determine our destiny. Is it possible that this nation, once fully devoted to God, started to value "money" more than God? Is it possible that it conformed them to materialistic self-centric human beings with legio of rights and to the love of money, which will determine there destiny? Hard words...but what about Europe, did that not happen with them first? It is easy to criticize other countries...where are we, as Namibians, in this process?</p><p>Are we still worshipping God and Him alone?<br /></p><p>The warning lights are red in Europe, orange in America and between green and orange in Africa...<br /></p><p>Scripture is clear on this:<br /></p><p>Psalm 115:1-8 (NIV)<br /><sup>1 </sup>Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness. <sup>2 </sup>Why do the nations say, "Where is their God?" <sup>3 </sup>Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him. <sup>4 </sup>But their idols are silver and gold, made by the hands of men. <sup>5 </sup>They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but they cannot see; <sup>6 </sup>they have ears, but cannot hear, noses, but they cannot smell; <sup>7 </sup>they have hands, but cannot feel, feet, but they cannot walk; nor can they utter a sound with their throats. <sup>8 </sup>Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.<br /></p><p>One of the signs you will see the most in New York City is: "I love New York", on t-shirts, glasses, keyrings, etc. A truly remarkable city with the most wonderful people, but I felt a sense of hopelessness due to who they worship. The Sunday before we left we visited the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church of Jim Cymbala (he is the author of two wonderful books I have read "Fresh Wind Fresh Fire" and "Fresh Faith"). Again, it was here, in church, that I received hope! Every time during our American leg of our trip; after reading newspapers, watching news channels, talking to people, my hope was fading. But every time it was in the local church that my hope was restored. That happened in LA (Fred Price and Rick Warren's churches), Whitefish (Paul and Angelita's church), Atlanta (Bruce Wilkinson, Phil Tuttle, Louie Giglio), Chicago (Bill Hybel's church) and now in New York (Jim Cymbala's church)!<br /></p><p>That reminded me of Scripture; 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)<br /><sup>14 </sup>if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.<br /></p><p>There is hope because God is faithful, abundantly loving-kind and full of forgiveness... and his local church is still there...but then the church in America's voice should be heard! Can you hear that prophetic voice?...(Remember, the church is not only those few prophets I mentioned ...the church are all those who is carrying Christ Name!) Does that prophetic voice change the direction of businesses, the Government, the Nation? If the silence continues (voice or efforts not being effective)... America will become who they worship!<br /></p><p>Maybe this is why the follow up book of Jim Cymbala of <span><span xmlns="">New York (Brooklyn)</span></span>, is called "Fresh Power". Churches (individuals, businesses and the Government) will need the Holy Spirit's presense and power to turn this around...<br /></p><p>What about you and me? Are we still salt and light? Are we worthy of Christ Name? Are we faithful to our calling?<br /></p><p>Ephesians 4:1 (NIV)<br /><sup>1 </sup>As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF7BdyEujHKojTgNFDQ05M-uE8syxeCK87YlHdz3fqcxO5TUOgEiTtr0UE7TotGMD9_aP9akpwkvp4-Xb4TJ4NbyP_U_cLsf2zKNybkb2R59Qt0tnSzHuldYdJZWKs2jsnUlqDM7iDeGPr/s400/IMG_5256+%28600x800%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375709443556727954" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span></p><p><sup>Dawie Fourie - 9/11 from New York</sup></p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4260795285518931738.post-84893800418753376952009-08-24T10:45:00.008+02:002009-08-30T13:05:35.147+02:00Chicago –our number one? (Dawie) 23 Aug 2009<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4J2pkkiHKVQf3QhJwcuhII18xiVxf7MtTln5crFARVren74g3SGHHstoWjkWHc0FyP-dqZaithvX2tpGI70LLdwuDu900Nu9umll1b5skcuhKwFLe1IO3Lv8RMYWp_KodIPyPiUhOC7lv/s1600-h/Willow+Creek.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY32zb7ixBqkYHdUV6cqLajDp2RAwBRPm45wUF6q5Fr4tLSA_Vg6_CP_caGrtk8Q0c_23dKI1zKZ_p_qeBVuyxab6l8jXbWIHsr4UyQnuWMg0Mj7eN_FYnuDCAq6ZTcast75n5Ptjrbha/s1600-h/Navy+Pier+S.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY32zb7ixBqkYHdUV6cqLajDp2RAwBRPm45wUF6q5Fr4tLSA_Vg6_CP_caGrtk8Q0c_23dKI1zKZ_p_qeBVuyxab6l8jXbWIHsr4UyQnuWMg0Mj7eN_FYnuDCAq6ZTcast75n5Ptjrbha/s400/Navy+Pier+S.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373469917762784146" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><br /></span></div><span xmlns=""><p>Chicago has been our number one choice in several categories. It was the first city we identified to include in our world tour. The family voted the skyline as the most beautiful one in the world. Tinus and Charlie completed their first half marathon there. The best local church we have visited is there. The best car we had on the tour, we drove there. It's the location in which we made the most new friends. It's the most innovated city we have visited. It's Tinus' first choice for after graduate studies. It's the city in which we have exercised the most. And the list continues...</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwNlYlViyT0PBgPBGvtMqJdxSIHCNCSpXaIDtGU-55Z0R1wolhnPSFCI8m0lpQ9V9UlM8o63sQk4rIXPF64JJcS-ioH3mwrefMJUdrw3xmQr_pbm4sV_Jl9dVQ4v58iHdmR_3cgCfhaiY/s400/Chicago+Sunrise.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373469902039766242" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span></p><p>The innovative and architectural buildings and structures, 1000+ km running/bicycle tracks, numerous parks, cleanliness, various famous educational institutions, museums, art festivals, etc. contributed to my gaining respect for the city. The pace against which the city and it's people develop are remarkable. Chicago for example, produced the most Noble price winners ever. (I am sure some other family members will elaborate more on Chicago and the friends we made here)<br /></p><p>Chicago was indeed very special.<br /></p><p>But so were all the other places and all the other wonderful people and churches we have visited.<br /></p><p>We had the most remarkable eight months as a family, but believe me, it is here in Chicago that I felt our relationships matured and grew in depths, more than ever before. I once again realized that I am very proud of my wife and three godly sons.<br /></p><p>The visits to the Willow Creek Community Church and the Global Leadership Summit ("GLS") surely contributed to make Chicago even more special.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4J2pkkiHKVQf3QhJwcuhII18xiVxf7MtTln5crFARVren74g3SGHHstoWjkWHc0FyP-dqZaithvX2tpGI70LLdwuDu900Nu9umll1b5skcuhKwFLe1IO3Lv8RMYWp_KodIPyPiUhOC7lv/s400/Willow+Creek.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373469922373910066" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span></p><p>The church is relevant, innovative and lead by people with the spiritual gift of leadership. The focus on God's Word and Jesus is real, which ensure that they are practical and sensitive to the needs of their people and of the world. The GLS was once again a world class event; excellently organized and executed. It was full of practical information for leaders in today's changing world. It is "a must" for every leader who desires to glorify God through his or her church/organization.</p><p>My meetings with Bill Hybels and Gary Schammlein were fruitful and inspiring. There are so many win-win opportunities in Africa if the Willow Creek Association and the African Leadership Institute can work closer together in the future. Something , I think, which will develop.</p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70pHAXuvN9UHol-GJXaABhyphenhyphentCMMuWs2Y0s4eisUuV__8ATBviP1fE74yUU1RGlFWxJic3hTjhRcey8rrn_guCP0IchTbPjlGnFzjZ4NcmSC_pFdTKJXgnEJO7rgWuOZnFRhGjrisenEw1/s400/Fourie+%26+Hybels.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373469910694165202" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span></p><p>Something I once again realized on this trip is that if one desires to make a difference you need to do the following:<br /></p><p></p><ul><li>Be willing to learn from everybody and be sensitive for opportunities to gain knowledge, experience and wisdom.</li><li>Never think that you are better than other people</li><li>Work hard, with excellence, and in unity with teams</li><li>Actively and innovatively seek new solutions for challenges and be willing to take risk for a Kingdom reward</li><li>Your own abilities will take you only so far...we all need the power of God's hand on our lives.</li></ul><p></p><p>It is not fair to all the other very special places, people and churches to give Chicago the official "no 1 -Fouries-around-the-world-prize"...Lets just conclude with the statement that it was an truly amazing and blessed visit!<br /></p><p>Psalm 127 (NIV)<br /><sup>1 </sup>Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. <sup>2 </sup>In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves. <sup>3 </sup>Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. <sup>4 </sup>Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. <sup>5 </sup>Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.</p></span>Fourie Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14897167530288109894noreply@blogger.com0