Comments | |
| 21st June 2009 Colin Sanchez | Shark Cage - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town congradulations on your dive with sharks, i randomly found this page, but you seem to have done really well, write back soon, am from scotland its great but really not what its made out to be, its not just fat people with ginger hair or heavy drinkers,colin sanchez sneakysanchez@hotmail.co.uk |
| 23rd December 2008 AnnaAdventuring | - From: "Pumbaa, are you nuts? We're talking about a lion. Lions eat guys like us." Part III: Zimbabwe Great blog! Thanks for all the advice on what to do when confronted with a lion or charging elephant... I'm sure it will come in handy one day! (As will knowing what position to place beanie babies on a football team!) |
| 3rd December 2008 Mark Anthony | So many cool stories, I bet - From: A heart, a brain, courage and home. Hey Kyle. I'm currently taking a break from my ISP and happened to find your blog through the school website. I can't wait to talk to you soon about your adventures in SA. Seems like you really enjoyed it! MA |
| 24th November 2008 Gtandma | Bravo - From: A heart, a brain, courage and home. BRAVO to you for taking on such an adventure and sharing it so vibrantly with us. |
| 23rd November 2008 Grandma | wow - From: Namibia; where celebrities come to adopt babies What a wonderful trip you had and the memories will last a lifetime. We are waiting to welcome you back in Michigan with open arms. |
| 11th November 2008 Jason | I have a big stocking - From: The answers my friend, are blowing in the wind Ok here we go. I haven't checked in a few weeks and I see the answers are posted but I have not looked yet. 1. B 2. C. 3. A 4. B 5. A 6. A 7. C 8. B. 9. C. 10. A 11. B 12. A. So I realize you tried to make it easy but I think I only forgot a few of them. |
| 28th October 2008 mom | I failed history - From: The answers my friend, are blowing in the wind I have to research Nelson Mandela a bit more. Can I have a re-take? Will you grade on a curve???? |
| 27th October 2008 Grandma | I'm excused - From: The answers my friend, are blowing in the wind I really DID know a couple of the answers but have to admit I would have to go back and re-read most everything, which I might do anyway, to get everything correct. Being a senior has its advantages, since you can always blame lack of knowledge on a bad memory and "senior moments". |
| 27th October 2008 Dad aka Flamingodoove | I think I'd get a 'D'og if I answered the quiz! - From: The answers my friend, are blowing in the wind Kyle, I have to admit I have not been a diligent reader of your travelblog....'Alas, the King's bean soup is cold'(only line in 6th grade play and I screwed it up resulting in beating from Grandma)...I would guess that you could eliminate the 'D' answer in most of your questions. Yes, the economic conditions are bleak but we'll persevere...somehow! By the way....can you say 'student loan'? ha aha ha (who's laughing). Study hard, get good grades...and start looking for a job! Hopefully here in the good ole' U.S. of A...Love, Dad! |
| 23rd October 2008 David | - From: Exam Time-Suid Afrika edition People are a little nuts for Barack Obama here too. His book was just published yesterday in Russian, while McCain has no books published here. Apparently 37% or so of Russians want Barack, 36% just don't care, and only 14% want McCain. 13% I guess are undecided. Good blog. When are you headed home? It's gotta be pretty soon. |
| 21st October 2008 Grandma | burgers - From: Exam Time-Suid Afrika edition 15 lb burgers ---at least it gives us something else to think about other than corrupt politicians, a sagging economy and here in Michigan, dejected sports teams (except the Red Wings). |
| 19th October 2008 Aunt Karen | Bus Ride - From: Durban renewal Hi, On the bus, was there anybody singing "Flinstones, meet the Flinstones" to which you returned by singing "Two coins in a fountain"..... Wow, again, I have no idea where you can vacation after this and the outback. |
| 19th October 2008 Aunt Karen | History Lesson - From: Everything I learned in life, I learned building Legos Hi Kyle! I actually get history lessons just by reading your email, I guess I can throw out my 4th grade history book that I have..... Can't wait to see you and hear all the stories, we will of course wear pilgrim hats for Thanksgiving dinner, and yes I will be sitting at the kids table with you and Colin. |
| 16th October 2008 David | - From: Durban renewal Hey! I was looking at time zones and I'm only two hours ahead of you. That's crazy. When do you go home? Hope everything's going well. Keep up the blogging. |
| 14th October 2008 Drew | wow! - From: Durban renewal Kyle....great to see you're having the chance to learn about so many neat places...please let me know what you like best, if it is possible to narrow it down. I am heading down there in a couple of years it looks like and want to know what's best to see. Keeping enjoying yourself! Drew |
| 14th October 2008 Grandma | sting - From: Durban renewal I almost feel like I am on the beach avoiding the stings of the jellyfish. I remember years ago when Mark got stung in Fl. I think I will stick with the beach and waves in Caseville for my "waterworld" fun. Thanks for the enjoyable read on your trip to Durban. As always, your writings are both amusing and informational. Love, Grandma |
| 13th October 2008 Jason | My legos - From: Everything I learned in life, I learned building Legos Does this mean after your trip I can get my legos back? You know, oddly enough, I think I understood your lessons on African culture and politics. I will be interested to hear the rest. P.S. It's October, I think Grandma Gillis got out the snow shovels. |
| 9th October 2008 David | - From: Everything I learned in life, I learned building Legos Your blog comment thing is a little complicated, but I think it's time I compliment you on your blog. You give me so many compliments on mine. I really enjoy reading this. I can't believe how quick your trip has gone and how you're already planning for your final weeks. Keep up the good work on the blog. Maybe you should keep writing after you're done in South Africa. Talk to you soon. |
| 9th October 2008 Aunt Carolyn & Uncle Denny | Hi - From: Everything I learned in life, I learned building Legos We are enjoying your blog so much - makes us feel like we are right there behind you experiencing all that you are doing. What a great time in your life. Say hello to Albion for me when you start back. And thanks for your postcard & thinking of us. |
| 7th October 2008 mom | - From: Everything I learned in life, I learned building Legos I'm so glad those 14 buckets of leggos that are still in the basement have taught you something! |
| 6th October 2008 Grandma | condensation - From: Everything I learned in life, I learned building Legos I'm not familiar with "Risk" nor am I a history buff, but I can associate with "Legos". I enjoyed the condensed history lesson. Maybe besides considering a career in writing (which Grandma is pulling for) you might consider teaching. Keep learning and enjoying. |
| 2nd October 2008 Aunt DD | And I thought the US was in bad shape... - From: There's no place like home I guess we think things are melting down here when the stock market tanks overnight 10% , but your Kwacha are worthless! I can't believe the turmoil there either, but as long as you are safe and sound. The picture of you sitting with the lions is too cool...wait till you tell the boys about that one. Take care, love Aunt dd |
| 1st October 2008 Jason | - From: "O Captain, my captain." Part II: Zambia and the Mighty Zambezi River The picture from the bridge overlooking the falls is amazing. There's a little blue smudge on the left side though! I will say it's nice that you haven't lost your roots over there. I am fairly certain that you did not bring a comb judging by the classic bed head on your right side hahah. |
| 29th September 2008 Grandma | interest - From: There's no place like home Thanks for the interesting account of politics in S. Africa. I love your analogy of S. African political antics to Detroit's. Love hearing from you, Grandma |
| 24th September 2008 Jennifer Williams | - From: "Pumbaa, are you nuts? We're talking about a lion. Lions eat guys like us." Part III: Zimbabwe Kyle, this my first read through and it is just incredible! What an amazing experience and I can't wait to hear the stories first hand. |
| 22nd September 2008 Grandma | "Mitch" - From: "Pumbaa, are you nuts? We're talking about a lion. Lions eat guys like us." Part III: Zimbabwe OK, Like I said before, if you don't follow in Mitch's footsteps, you will have lost your calling. Well, maybe that is a little too harsh but PLEASE find a niche for writing somewhere in your future. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your Zim adventures. Love, Grandma |
| 21st September 2008 julie Doppke | :) - From: "Pumbaa, are you nuts? We're talking about a lion. Lions eat guys like us." Part III: Zimbabwe You are awesome! |
| 19th September 2008 Aunt Karen | Next Vacation - From: "O Captain, my captain." Part II: Zambia and the Mighty Zambezi River Okay, so where is your next vacation, because Vegas and Florida are very boring compared to where you have gone! It is great to see your pics and read your comments, can't wait to wear our pilgrim hats at Thanksgiving dinner and listen to your stories!! Stay safe, do well.... |
| 19th September 2008 Aunt DD | What an Adventure - From: Overland Trip Part I: Botswana Kyle, All I can say is: watch out for those hippos!!! I can't believe the awesome pictures you have with all the animals! It must have been incredible sleeping under the stars out there. It seems like yesterday you were waking up to watch "Arthur" before school and now you are waking up to the sound of elephants! I love hearing about your adventures, Love Aunt dd |
| 18th September 2008 Julie Doppke | don't die - From: "O Captain, my captain." Part II: Zambia and the Mighty Zambezi River OK, so don't die by the way. Your amazing excursion sounds incredible. I would have totally freaked out under the raft, swallowing gallons of water in a panic, watching my life flash before my eyes as a died. I can't believe you are doing all of this adventurous stuff. Heck, the best story I have for the kids is that I bungee (sp?) jumped. That was a bid deal back in the day. Take care and stay alive. Love, Auntie Julie PS I was interviewed for the today show airing next Thursday the 25th. I stated my support for the Republican ticket...your fellow S. Africans would not approve. |
| 17th September 2008 Mom | paddle! Paddle!!!! - From: "O Captain, my captain." Part II: Zambia and the Mighty Zambezi River What a riot! Glad you didn't have to test to see if you really have insurance coverage in Africa!! love, MOM |
| 17th September 2008 Grandma | worrywart - From: "O Captain, my captain." Part II: Zambia and the Mighty Zambezi River Thank goodness I am not a "Worrywart" or I would be constantly fretting about your safety. As it stands, I just love reading about your adventures and your take on life in another part of the world. Take Care Love, Grandma |
| 11th September 2008 Grandma | WOW - From: Overland Trip Part I: Botswana You are creating memories for a lifetime. Love reading your narratives. Love, Grandma |
| 2nd September 2008 Christie Piper | Risk motif - From: Patrol boats and battleships I'm glad that you thought it necessary to "fortify" your troops to cut off their supply- it's the only way to get things done, lol. Looks like you're having a good time down there :) |
| 27th August 2008 J.Bentley | - From: Patrol boats and battleships I'm glad you wrote "coloured" folk so Grandma Gillis would know who you were talking about. |
| 23rd August 2008 Grandma | What a Salty Tale! - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town Dear Kyle, I almost felt like I was on that boat with you thanks to your thorough description of the events aboard and in the cage. I can remember being seasick a few times and it "aint no fun!" Well, you certainly had quite an adventure. I still think you should think about a side career as a writer. You ARE talented, you know. AND, along with those cheesburgers and fries, how about some veggies once in awhile !!! Your loving Grandma cares about you. Can't wait for your next excerpt. |
| 21st August 2008 Linda | OH BOY! - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town Kyle, 1st of all, you really should think about a career in journalism (if you aren't already). You tell a great story. As with Sarah's articles, I was so thoroughly impressed with your writing. My breakfast was in my throat as I read this. What a great experience....I think! Glad you felt it was worth it. Gordon and I watched Jaws Tuesday and I cannot imagine surviving a dive, even in a cage. I would die of a heart attack before dehydration. Take care, be safe, Linda |
| 18th August 2008 Dee Dee | Puk-a-palooza - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town oh, kyle, I guess seeing the sharks up close was worth it but I would have just asked the captain to knock me out cold so I wouldn't keep puking. Loved the story - you are a great story teller! |
| 18th August 2008 KyleKGillis | Re: unbelievable - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town I know you'd probably puke. While I was getting sick I was running through a list of people who I figured would get sick on the boat, and both you and Colin came to mind. |
| 18th August 2008 J.Bentley | Fish in a barrel - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town Ya know.... I once had an experience... except it happened in a little gym on Van Dyke, and I had chilli cheese fries after. I DO remember how sick I was on our fishing trip in California, I don't envy you one bit. Sounds like your having a great time! The pictures are beautiful too, I have one on my desk top. ~Your Cuz |
| 18th August 2008 Julie Doppke | Wow! - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town Kyle! What a great experience!!! I felt sick just reading about all of the puking!!! I could NEVER go down with the sharks!!! By the way, have you eating anything like a veggie, piece of fruit or a salad since arriving???? Love, Auntie Julie |
| 17th August 2008 mom | unbelievable! - From: Fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town WOW...I felt like I was there! What a great story. I would still like to do that someday (not puke, although I'm sure I would). This made my day!! love, mom |
| 10th August 2008 mom | bad weather - From: Bad weather bites It has now become like 'Jaws'! You will take that trip and see sharks no matter what! The weather at 'Cheeseburger in Caseville' was like Fall...rainy and cold. You're right...we could have all gone insane!! Mom |
| 5th August 2008 Linda | Better Luck Next Time - From: Peak-a-boo Hey Kyle, maybe all the weather issues are a sign you SHOULDN'T go shark diving. By the way, looks like only your mom cares about you...haven't seen an entry from good ole Kev yet!~Linda |
| 3rd August 2008 mom | no sharks! - From: Peak-a-boo Too bad about the weather again...I can't wait to hear about the shark encounter! But, I'm so proud of you for finding a McDonalds...and I was worried you wouldn't be eating well!! (How's school, by the way!) love, MOM |
| 1st August 2008 Grandma | - From: Mega mistake? Hi Kyle, I am home for a few days from the cottage and have been reading about your adventures. I am so proud of you and your accomplishments. Sounds like you are really enjoying your new surroundings and life in faraway Africa. You are experiencing some things that many of us never get to do in a lifetime. Keep on studying and exploring and we here back in Michigan can only imagine what it must be like for you over there. You are doing a wonderful job of relating your experiences to us. Lots of love, Grandma |
| 31st July 2008 Aunt DD | One more thing I forgot.... - From: Mega mistake? Grandma, Andrew and Austin are all sad today due to Pudge Rodriguez of the Tigers getting traded to NY. Anna probably is too - he was such a fun player to watch. PS - speaking of fast food in your earlier message, Dunkin Donuts is coming out with Healthy Options soon....maybe a low carb donut made like a rice cake?! Any Tim Hortons or Dunkin Donuts over there? Starbucks probably rules around the world... |
| 31st July 2008 Aunt DD | It sounds awesome! - From: Mega mistake? Kyle, Victoria Falls are supposed to be so awesome, I will be looking for you on the next Nature show either in a shark cage or safari jeep with a camera lens. Take care if you do go in the cage, i just watched Jaws again on Shark Week! Love Aunt DD |
| 31st July 2008 mom | sharks - From: Mega mistake? I've been watching shark week and the spot to be is cape town...lots of sharks!! I can't wait to hear about it...I'd love it! |
| 29th July 2008 Linda Harbison | - From: Mega mistake? Hey Kyle, love this blog, gives me something to do while I am bored at work. Not sure it's good for your mom to be hearing about shark encounters and mountain climbing until you are back on American soil though. Have fun, be safe~Linda |
| 28th July 2008 Julie Doppke | crazy - From: Mega mistake? OK, just the thought of the shark coming up to your cage makes me shiver and freak out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Good luck with your great adventures!!!! love, Aunt Julie |
| 22nd July 2008 Anna | HELLO - From: Weather or not, here I come I am so glad that things are going well for you and that you found places to eat that remind you of the good old US of A. The picture are breath taking. Last week I did some research on the campus and I was really surprised at how beautiful the University is. OK, here I go, no more Michigan replay on Sunday, Rich is not into that kind of stuff, go figure. That has not gone over very well as many MI fans do watch the show on Sunday. I sold my first Lions tickets today - the Bears game, yeah for me. Now I only have 6 more to go. Taylor is going to the Redskins, Kevin Jones signed with the Bear and Shockey is going to New Orleans. Take care and you know I will write again. Anna |
| 20th July 2008 mom | glad you're eating well! - From: Weather or not, here I come I thought you'd look up at the stars and know us at home are seeing the same thing......well, every time we pass the golden arches,smile, and know we're thinking of you! Good luck at school! love, MOM |
| 20th July 2008 Julie Doppke | food - From: Weather or not, here I come Love to see your mind is concentrating on the important issues like good ol' Americanized FAST FOOD! Glad things are going well...hope you can climb to the top another day! ?Auntie Julie |
| 18th July 2008 Dad | In fairness to Verizon - From: Landing over the rainbow Yes, Kyle is correct. I was not too kind to the Verizon people while on the phone w/them Sunday. Albeit I did warn Kyle that he had a 50/50 shot at the phone working. I knew this due to previous issues w/global phones. Thanks to email and a little knowledge of the issue, I was able to describe the problem to the Verizon rep. Again, I wasn't too kind, but Verizon was professional and did fix the issue immediately. In fairness to them, I called the lady that helped me and left a voicemail thanking her! Kyle, be safe and careful hiking...I'll be on your side of the world next week. Love, Dad. |
| 18th July 2008 Aunt Karen | An average day - From: Landing over the rainbow The pictures you posted are incredible, what a great average day to walk to school with mountains, etc. I actually was thinking of taking a trip to Hamtramck, I'm sure I too will pass some interesting sights....I'll keep you posted. When you go hiking, try to find someone who has 2 left shoes and climb the mountain together....ha. Please continue to write and post pictures! Stay safe, have fun, do well.... ps. "Trans Slide Dust, Baby We Were Born to Run" :o) |
| 17th July 2008 Julie Doppke | awesome - From: Landing over the rainbow Kyle, you are amazing! Your blog is great, and it's just so awesome of you to do this amazing trip/study. Keep up the writing in your spare time!!!! Love, Aunt Julie |
| 16th July 2008 mom | funny - From: Landing over the rainbow I always thought a blog was just a couple lines??? It must be the jet lag! But, it was fun to read and sounds wonderful there. Keep writing! |
| 16th July 2008 KyleKGillis | Note: - From: Landing over the rainbow The internet isnt that fast down here, so it takes a long time for pictures to upload, I will upload more pictures surely but slowly. |