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Saturday, July 26, 2008

A quarter year passes by...




















My time in Africa is really flying by. I think that it is honestly because every moment of my life since I have moved here has been filled with something extremely new and exciting. And I thank God the Father for making this life possible.
The video that is embedded in this blog entry is from a television show that interviewed me a few weeks back. It is called "Magg's on Media." It's just a short piece on who I am and what in the world I am doing in Africa. I think they did a great job putting it together.

The pictures you are looking at are from the past 3 weeks of my life. I am wearing a barrette to celebrate Bastille Day (French Independence) with some of my friends from Paris. We where in the most quaint South African town called none-other-than Franshoek, which means the French Quarter. It was quite a good time. Look at this beautiful, sun-struck Dutch Colonial style church that I came across. It was built in the mid 1800's. Franshoek is a very old town. Caught a sunset near my house the other day...it was nothing short of spectacular. The reason I am dressed up in some of the pictures is because my friends and I had a 1920's style party at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. It has proven to be a highlight of my time down here as well. The picture of me holding a surf board is from my first surfing experience in South Africa. Their is a beach here named Muzinberg, that has the perfect wave break. I am very into surfing these days...it really brings a smile to my face. So you might as well do things that make you happy, right? :-)

Recently, there was a large event in Africa called "Big Wave Africa." I presented specific Swell reports for the surfing event during my weather broadcasts. It was held at a place called Dungeons just outside of Hout Bay Harbour. As a token of their appreciation, they invited me onto the NordicCat surfer's boat to get a up-close viewing of the event. It was great to be with the professional surfers leading up to, during and after the event took place. You got to see how the best-of-the-best prepare for such a challenging sport. The waves that where ridden during this event where as tall as 4-story buildings. It was unlike anything I have ever witnessed. The surfers would come back with completely broken/snapped surf-boards and then rush out again to catch the big waves.
Other pictures are taken from my television's world headquarters in Johannesburg. Their new television sets for the 24-hour channel are incredible. The ratings have been tallied and it is confirmed that the launch of the 24-hour news channel was highly successful. It continues to dominate over it's competion.
While I was in Johannesburg, I visited the South African Weather Service. It was great to meet colleagues that work in the meteorology business, especially from another country/continent. I carried on to Soweto, Mpumalanga and the Free State (different provinces in South Africa) to do a commercial shoot for e.tv.
A lot of big moments are coming up in my life this August and September including a visit from my parents and my best friend. I am looking forward to every minute of it. Miss you all so very very much.

jeu de vivre!

7 comments:

  1. Anonymous6:16 PM

    I could give my own opinion with your topic that is not boring for me.

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  2. Anonymous8:13 PM

    Loved it!!! Your blog always puts a smile on my face!!

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  3. Anonymous8:44 AM

    Hi Derek! Keep the posts coming! I appreciate reading the updates, the news, and all the happenings that you experience each and everytime. The videos are simply the Best! They are so interesting, informative and entertaining!!! It's great to see and hear your voice through this medium...and to think you are oceans away! Technology is Amazing!!! God Bless You Each and Every Day! Have fun visiting with your family and friends when they come to see you. What an incredible opportunity for all!

    Blessings Always!
    Your Friend, Bill Pavlov

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  4. Anonymous10:19 AM

    Derek, How wonderful to see you in action. Now I can really believe it - you are a meteorologist!! We think of you every day. Love you, Mom

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  5. Anonymous5:15 PM

    Hey Derek,

    Glad to see that you are having a great time over there. Wow where has the time gone. It seems like it was just yestuday that you left to go over there. We all still miss you but glad that you are safe and happy over there. Keep smiling and continue to have fun. Stay safe and may God continue to keep you close to his heart.

    Jennifer

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  6. Anonymous6:53 PM

    Hi Derek! It looks like you're having a great time. I'm so happy for you...but I selfishly wish you were here. :) Could use a chat with my old neighbor! Beth

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  7. You do get around. Take care and God Bless!

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