Observer - thanks Thank you for the spelling correction - and for the additional details! It appears that every so often someone raises the alarm that Mandela has died and it is time for the "uprising;" recently a hoax of that type spread rapidly by SMS in Jo'burg, followed by articles in the newspaper regarding the whole theory and the followers of Siener van Rensburg. Hard to tell how many there are, but it doesn't appear to be many - like with most extremist groups, probably a few fearful voices speaking loudly.
Observer Hi there. Interesting blog. Just a small correction. Boerewurst is in fact spelled "boerewors" i.e. farmer's sausage, . Often you will find people selling "wors rolls" outside a Pick 'n Pay or at rugby games. (Delish!)
The word "boere" is often used as a slang word for the police by whites and blacks alike, but these days "boere" is often used to refer to whites of a distinctly right wing leaning. Terror Lekota, Minister of Defense, famously took up the chant "Kill the boer, kill the farmer!" at a post '94 rally, which is probably why there is a growing sense amongst rural whites that the high number of farm murders is not, as has been argued by the government, merely incidental crime, but an orchestrtated campaign by the government to wage war on their mortal enemy, the "boer". Far fetched? Paranoid? Who knows.
It has however led to some startling conspiracy theories, the most risible of all being the prophecy of a twentieth century "seer" called Siener Van Rensburg who predicted that once Mandela dies, all the whites will be slaughtered! Since fear of the black man runs so deep in the heart of certain whites here, white right wingers are preparing themselves by stashing food supplies etc. And waiting for the dreaded day... What a way to live.
Anyway, nice blog. Enjoy your stay further.
Terms Yes, some of these terms originated as British English, and since South Africa was under British rule for decades, there is definitely an influence from British language and culture - more pronounced in some geographic areas than others. In addition, some of the terms come from Zulu and other African languages and some from Afrikaans, and like the British terms they have become quite established in the South African English lexicon.
Tragedy and Media Wow, I had not even heard a word about these two losses from the US media. Granted I am not a newspaper buff, but it is amazing was does not make it into our news, and sometimes what does. Thank you for sharing this with us and expanding our knowledge of South African history!
We are definately experiencing climate change here, but not necessary the global warming we have heard so much about in the past several years.
Nice to know It's so nice to know you are starting to really settle in! Although I must say we do miss you here! The Ayyám-i-há party wasn't quite the same........Natasha and I went to the Coronado last night to hear the Soweto Gospel Choir and I thought of you two much. I know you both would have enjoyed it! Sherri we miss your sweet voice, Natasha is now taking voice lessons!
loved the pictures I often watch for new news on your blog. It was great to see your flat (somehow I had imagined it older) and see the pictures. Lovely people,and I am so happy that you like where you are. Fondly, Alice
Hi Bib and Sherry, reading your stories makes me feel that the obsticales in my life are nothing compare to the life of south African's. I wish you guys best luck. Happy New Year.
I I finaly found the whole journal I have been checking and checking on this site and today for the first time found the whole journal and the pictures. I love the pictures because I have no idea what it is like there. And how much of the population is black and if they have any power. I will keep watching this journal. Thanks a lot, Alice
I found you! Hello Sherri! I'm so happy to have found you and read about all your adventures! My love and encouragement goes with you! We are doing well here- Georgia enjoying 1st grade, Maya becoming very independant, and Teresa insisting on trying to dress herself and speaking in almost complete sentences (at age 21 months!). Thank you for all your inspiration in the words you've written.
Lowell He has moved from hospital to a place where he can get further therapy, has had his ups and downs and now seems to be on the mend. We have seen him a few times, and friends are visiting frequently. Thank you for your encouragement!
Bugs...sheesh Mom, I am reminded of a story you told me about the vicious spider in the Philippines that even went after Papaw. I had one of those last night. Glad you have Bob there to play the knight and slay these irksome creatures. =)
Earth from Above Man. I remember when the book of photos for that came out. I was working at Borders and it was the coolest thing EVER. Mom, I think I even showed it to you once. You guys are so lucky to have seen the outdoor exhibit. And "Nightwatch," too!
keep writing sherri I love reading your journal. Would like some more pictures. Bob, I have a sure cure for kidney stones. Do you still have some left inside? What happened? Alice
Glad I found your blog!!! I'm really looking forward to learning all about your experiences. Thanks for keeping this journal. Wishing you both all the best!!
Fulfilling long-held dreams of living and working in another country and of being of service to humanity, we left the US in September 2006, at the end of summer in the northern hemisphere, and arrived in South Africa in the spring, ready for our second summer. We returned to the US (Texas) in August/September 2007, and in March 2010 began a new adventure in Libya.... full info
Our Year of Two Summers
Bob and Sherri van der Wege
Its speed, size, and apparent agility precluded a frontal "squishing" attack. And Bob was busy.