tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12493715877514454262024-03-13T20:23:46.858+02:00HP's African Internship AdventureMy journey to another continent for sports psychology, soccer, and fun.Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-45603911318868910032010-02-12T12:59:00.000+02:002010-02-12T12:59:32.221+02:00A Legal Alien.. FINALLY!Well folks, it has finally happened. My visa has been approved!!! It has been almost two months since I applied for it. Yikes, I was becoming a little nervous about whether or not it would ever come through. South Africa's Home Affairs office can be a bit of a nightmare. Since my visa has come through, I was able to go back to work at the Sports Science Institute today. :)<br />
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I am really excited for the winter Olympics! I hope that I can find someone who has the proper channels so I can watch Team USA kick some butt! I have many friends competing in Vancouver and I wish them all the best of luck. I hope that they are able to take a breather from training and competing to remind themselves of where they are. To be able to compete in the Olympics is an amazing accomplishment, and certainly not something many people can claim to have done. I am very proud of each one of my friends and their accomplishment of qualifying for the Olympic team, no matter how you place, in my mind each of you are gold medalists. I am going to have a fun time trying to explain the rules of all the different winter Olympic sports to people who have never seen a real snowfall in there life. It is going to be an interesting two weeks. Someone still needs to explain the rules of curling to me though.. can you use a regular kitchen broom? Or is there a curling specialty store that sells hybrids? Hmmmm.... I think I want one.<br />
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I'm outta here for now. I hope everyone is doing well.. remember to set your TIVO's cuz there's sure to be a lot of action coming out of Canada!<br />
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Much love,<br />
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HPHilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-67167871854050756092010-01-25T15:42:00.000+02:002010-01-25T15:42:44.605+02:00All AboardHello again,<br />
<br />
I don't really have a lot of exciting stuff to talk about. But something scary did happen to me on the train this morning. Apparently there are three different class compartments on the train. I normally ride in the first class compartment, but this train did not have one. I accidently ended up riding in the third class compartment. All I can say is whoops, and that will definitely never happen again.The train compartment was packed and I was standing close to the door because my stop was coming up. I had my backpack in front of me and my arm was over the pocket that had my wallet and phone inside of it. As I was getting ready to get off I looked and a giant scary man had opened one of my pockets and had his hand inside of it!!!! Luckily this pocket had nothing valuable in it.. but still I felt very frightened and violated. I pushed his hand away, closed the pocket and got off the train. The entire walk to work I was afraid this man might be following me. I was walking very fast and stuck with a group of people. Tomorrow I will be purchasing pepper spray. <br />
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I was looking at photos of all the snow in Lake Tahoe, I also have been reading people's Facebook statuses which have been full of skiing and snowboarding updates. I am currently sitting in my office sweating. I am feeling a bit homesick and reading about my friends powder skiing certainly does not help. So please, out of consideration can you talk about how crappy the snow is and how you did not have a good time on the mountain. Thanks, I appreciate it. If you keep it up, I might just have to talk about how warm it is here, how tan everyone is and how much I enjoy spending time on the beach drinking cocktails. :) <br />
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On Friday night I went to a local high school's performance. My friend Mel (an alumni of the high school) was asked to play a few acoustic songs in it. It was awesome! I don't remember having that many talented people all coming from my high school (no offense guys). I really think that they put something in their water. Some of those girls are definitely going to make it big. What made it even better for me was listening to everyone sing broadway songs with a South African accent. Haha.. I think I am the only person in the audience that found the show even better because of it, being that I was probably the only person watching without a South African accent. :) <br />
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Here is a travel tip. If you are feeling homesick do not.. I repeat.. DO NOT lie on your bed, in the dark and look at photos of what your friends are doing without you at home. You might find yourself sending soppy "I miss you soooo much" messages. Not that there is anything wrong with that... cough.. for anyone who recieved one.. cough. Instead, look at photos of fun times that you and your friends (and family) have had. <br />
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Lots of love,<br />
<br />
HPHilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-11901114518173509022010-01-13T10:01:00.000+02:002010-01-13T10:01:21.082+02:00Here is the link for the Twitter updated shark attack. The person did not survive, they found the other half of his body in the water. I wont be swimming anytime soon.<br />
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http://unscrambled.wordpress.com/2010/01/12/witness-tweets-shark-attack-as-it-happens/Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-53961392440980401012010-01-12T21:19:00.000+02:002010-01-12T21:19:05.793+02:00A few more photos of my friends...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu7MWM9cJoqEoNoTfX_bfjMoixrEiku-FW_b1ivwr7erMFGcWesStazuusVy9SOJ1W1aAGuLaNgCbz_g5fDLO6DDpUDBdklo2-Nwl9pw88DsfOT-Gq7fUIgsZYWjg7c39sRBciwaIAwY/s1600-h/11865_372040115127_806280127_10222998_3900168_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu7MWM9cJoqEoNoTfX_bfjMoixrEiku-FW_b1ivwr7erMFGcWesStazuusVy9SOJ1W1aAGuLaNgCbz_g5fDLO6DDpUDBdklo2-Nwl9pw88DsfOT-Gq7fUIgsZYWjg7c39sRBciwaIAwY/s320/11865_372040115127_806280127_10222998_3900168_n.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was taken at my first South African Braai (BBQ)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu7MWM9cJoqEoNoTfX_bfjMoixrEiku-FW_b1ivwr7erMFGcWesStazuusVy9SOJ1W1aAGuLaNgCbz_g5fDLO6DDpUDBdklo2-Nwl9pw88DsfOT-Gq7fUIgsZYWjg7c39sRBciwaIAwY/s1600-h/11865_372040115127_806280127_10222998_3900168_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCTYBZu3d1kFTRDyueagfPk7ZZ0qdzMxUslYwQISvNyi0UDQ5Pk5doXt8Mgf1wCQXI34PIrD_6amXa7E9mluPPxdCuwBhwUwT-saEzUc5n5iUOFeENmTGioWvGiVYIgk2YQ60rZJ1F1E/s1600-h/11865_361524635127_806280127_10148240_4885201_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCTYBZu3d1kFTRDyueagfPk7ZZ0qdzMxUslYwQISvNyi0UDQ5Pk5doXt8Mgf1wCQXI34PIrD_6amXa7E9mluPPxdCuwBhwUwT-saEzUc5n5iUOFeENmTGioWvGiVYIgk2YQ60rZJ1F1E/s320/11865_361524635127_806280127_10148240_4885201_n.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was taken at friends birthday party.. even the men were wearing dresses.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy New Year!! I hope that your 2010 is filled with love and adventure.<br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-37827073645984905282010-01-12T21:11:00.000+02:002010-01-12T21:11:34.837+02:00NEW!!!!!Hi Y'all,<br />
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Yeah.. it's been a while. I know.. I've been a bad blogger. I apologize.<br />
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Sooooo.... where to begin? I have had the last 3 weeks off of work so I have been filling up my days with fun activities such as: lying by the pool, going to the beach, doing touristy things, running, theme parks, boat rides, hunting penguins, etc. I start at the Sports Science Institute again on the 14th. And I can honestly say that I am looking forward to it. I love it there.<br />
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I have mastered the train system here since my initial troublesome encounter. I have been told that I no longer sound "American".. so I guess I am picking up the accent. I am finding it difficult to differentiate between a South African and American accent now. Which is strange and slightly embarrassing. I have settled into a wonderful group of friends. They have become my South African family and are constantly looking out for me and making sure that I am having a good time. I really like them. :) I have applied for my yearlong "volunteer visa" and will apply for a work visa once this one goes through. Baby steps.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Merry Christmas (a bit late) This photo was taken at Carols by Candlelight.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsPvnUVimrSl6jPkGJkYhctKgPy0F7Spii5YkXmvFXKbH88DBhLTWeUTmOn8aFPlnKMUG-4_ve5rcPmnURItnOsT6gG8jEVCWHipy8YIv0s6coPIJl1IvoMLJRnYAbWGZwdZJzqxlZ3A/s1600-h/11865_372068225127_806280127_10223196_2796613_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RMQljn7ySS0DmN3rhnNpy2ERkAhHZCMyj4A0GqPqnwwF6cdg-Gs1tK412Qinq7NUHBJ0bQHgB36KiAabEvMlmvH0RRLn9f9hTLaVCkanrS7uM35I1xl3r-F7qcIFgX1q-8dglpz5B4c/s1600-h/12445_373079780610_704695610_10405217_7832799_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RMQljn7ySS0DmN3rhnNpy2ERkAhHZCMyj4A0GqPqnwwF6cdg-Gs1tK412Qinq7NUHBJ0bQHgB36KiAabEvMlmvH0RRLn9f9hTLaVCkanrS7uM35I1xl3r-F7qcIFgX1q-8dglpz5B4c/s320/12445_373079780610_704695610_10405217_7832799_n.jpg" /></a><br />
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My friends have introduced me to the show Little Britain. I am hooked, it is hilarious! If you enjoy British humor, please check it out! There is even a Little Britain USA. Brilliant. I have been quoting the show for the last two weeks.<br />
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Cape Town is a beautiful place in the summer! The other day it was 38 degrees celsius! That was unbearably hot. I even considered diving into the ice cold ocean in Hout Bay. Unfortunately this water was contaminated by a local squatter camp's waste, so I didn't go for a swim. Ew.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another reason why I didn't go swimming... there was a shark attack today in Fishhoek. And if you want to know more about it apparently there was a witness giving Twitter updates shortly after.. and possibly during the incident. Yikes.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I promise to give more blog entries shortly. Thanks for being so patient over the last few months!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Much love,<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hilary<br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-57253941398616295082009-11-16T10:16:00.000+02:002009-11-16T10:16:46.274+02:00Pull Harder?This morning I took the train to work for the first time. This was a bit of a mission because I had to figure out where the train station is and which train I needed to get on. <br />
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After I figured that out, I bought my ticket and hopped aboard. It was a nice ride and things were going well.. that is until I got to my stop and tried to get off the train. I couldn't open the doors to get off. I wasn't quick enough and ended up not being able to get off at my stop. I was embarassed, but the people who were on the train helped me out and told me I need to pull extra hard to open the doors. I got off at the next stop and then rode a train back to the station close to where I work. Haha, I am still laughing at myself for not being able to open the doors. I must have looked like a complete moron. Live and learn.Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-88799436219456450202009-11-13T10:20:00.000+02:002009-11-13T10:20:33.660+02:00No snow for meHello,<br />
<br />
After a few worried text messages from my parents, I have decided to delete my last post. My parent's think thought that it was "unprofessional." I don't want to look bad, I just wanted to be honest about what was happening to me. I think that people can learn from the situation that I was in, it was certainly a learning experience for me.<br />
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Other than that hiccup, things are going well. I am very excited because Tish is back in South Africa. She is currently in Johannesburg, but will be in Cape Town in December. I am counting down the days until I can see her! She called me yesterday, it was great to hear a familiar voice. Finally, a friend from "home" that is back in her homeland. If that makes any sense at all... it does to me. Another friend of mine from college, Rhaea, is coming. She will be here in January, she is busy trying to plan a trip for the three of us. She is quite a world traveller. <br />
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Time has been flying since I have been here. I can hardly believe that I have been here for two months already. It feels strange to not be packing my ski bags and getting ready to head to Colorado for a Thanksgiving training camp with Olin/Lacasse Ski Racing School and other training camps with Sierra Nevada College. I am missing the snow and skiing already. I knew that I would miss it, I just didn't expect that it would happen so soon. I wish all of my ski racing buddies and the kids that I have coached the best of luck this season. Remember, skiing is supposed to be fun! Sometimes it is easy to get caught up in training and forget why you love the sport. Keep smiling! And take a few runs for me! :-)<br />
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Since I cannot ski here, I am trying to find new hobbies. I have been practicing the guitar and I am trying to write my own music. It is a difficult process, and I have a newfound respect for professional musicians. I also just met someone who plays indoor soccer. They need another girl on their team, so I will play with them sometime next week. All of you know how much I love soccer, so there really is no need to go into detail about excited I am to play. Haha. If anyone has any other suggestions on healthy, let me repeat, HEALTHY hobbies, please let me know. I think I will become obsessive about my diet and excercise again. Why not. It is bathing suit (or "costume" as the South African's like to say) season here.<br />
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I hope everyone is doing well. Please keep in touch, I love hearing about what you all are up to.<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
<br />
HilaryHilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-65640774710128739692009-10-26T13:19:00.001+02:002009-10-26T13:30:39.085+02:00Cape TownHello all,<br />
<br />
I have now been in Cape Town for two weeks. I really like Cape Town, the pace is a lot slower here than in Johannesburg. CT is definitely more like the West Coast in the US, whereas Joburg feels more like the East Coast. <br />
<br />
I haven't really explored the city very much yet, I have been busy at the Sports Science Institute (SSISA). But I have been working on some cool projects for SSISA. One is called the Ithuseng Project, it is for South Africa's professional soccer teams. A lot of soccer players in SA do not have a high school diploma, their highest level of education being secondary school. They have it in their mindset that they are going to be soccer stars and make a lot of money by playing for clubs overseas. In reality, despite a lot of the players having a tremendous amount of talent, only a certain number will make it big. So the players who don't make it are left at the end of their soccer careers without any job skills to fall back on. Even the players who do "make it" have a tendency to blow their money on extravagent things and end up pretty much where they began. Drug and alcohol abuse is a big problem within SA's soccer clubs.<br />
<br />
Project Ithuseng teaches the soccer players life skills. They learn about banking, HIV/AIDs, drug and alcohol abuse, media training, nutrition, etc. If the player completes 80% of the course he or she recieves a certificate, it is something that they can put on their CV. I got to go with one of my coworkers to a local soccer team that is affiliated with the Dutch club Ajax. I got to meet the players and kick the ball around with them. It was a lot of fun. <br />
<br />
A few days ago I went into a township where SSISA has a programme set up for the children called "Little Champs." This programme helps the children develop coordination. Recently, studies have shown that children growing up in townships are lacking some important motor skills, Little Champs is helping solve this problem by using fun games with the young children as a way to develop these motor skills. The children are adorable! I wanted to adopt every single one of them. I don't know what is wrong with me, but lately I have been feeling very motherly. It is like my internal clock has kicked in and my body is telling me that I am ready for a child of my own. I may be ready physically; but financially, emotionally, etc. I am certainly not ready to take that step. I am suffering from what I like to call "Femotion," it is when a woman is emotional for no apparent reason. If you take femotion and add children to the mix it leads to intense motherly feelings. Kittens are also bad for femotion.<br />
<br />
On another, less emotional note, I am hoping to head to the beach this week. I would also like to climb Table Mountain and see if I can beat my previous record of reaching the top in 35 minutes. But I cannot hike Table Mountain alone because I would most likely be mugged for my tennis shoes and camera. It is only safe to go up in groups. This is unfortunate, because I would have already climbed it by now. There are some desperate people in SA who have reverted to violent acts in order to get what they need to survive. I just need to have my wits about me at all times when I am out and about. I never carry more money than what I need, I hardly ever carry a purse, and I will not walk alone at night. But really, no matter where you are in the world, you should be doing the same thing. Street smarts people.. street smarts.<br />
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On a final note, I would like to encourage all of you to check out Tegan and Sara's new albulm Sainthood that comes out tomorrow (Tuesday.) It is going to be excellent. They are talented musicians. They are also going on tour, so you should check out if they are going to be in your city! Do it for me.. so I can live vicariously through you. You will walk away a fan.. guaranteed. <br />
<br />
Cheers!Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-48505618210562413342009-10-25T20:32:00.000+02:002009-10-25T20:32:52.445+02:00Tight, Bright and Lumo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlmyg6Q-iBlwACv66sRgKg7SSIqqM9CrFbNTYpsBcU-len7yDh4o2nA0nmg5q2f9hoOf4d9UqdaL__qeLNTdjctJoz4InvOTC8Z5WDoOPz9cRZc_yzHBFXi0gbXba816Tw9YVopFN0O0/s1600-h/DSC01866+%28Small%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlmyg6Q-iBlwACv66sRgKg7SSIqqM9CrFbNTYpsBcU-len7yDh4o2nA0nmg5q2f9hoOf4d9UqdaL__qeLNTdjctJoz4InvOTC8Z5WDoOPz9cRZc_yzHBFXi0gbXba816Tw9YVopFN0O0/s320/DSC01866+%28Small%29.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZqFcxacN_2ltpWSInz33CFG-1tUcSSfGXbagSZ4kdmAuyMBcCXCqU_k3jiUA6z7V01gTLhZmL3FB0SJ5qzdjjQ9HqgVGPI9mIfMXxa63LoLE_M4z1bGn93v6b1q26S9VF3gcFyeypyc/s1600-h/DSC01874+%28Small%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZqFcxacN_2ltpWSInz33CFG-1tUcSSfGXbagSZ4kdmAuyMBcCXCqU_k3jiUA6z7V01gTLhZmL3FB0SJ5qzdjjQ9HqgVGPI9mIfMXxa63LoLE_M4z1bGn93v6b1q26S9VF3gcFyeypyc/s320/DSC01874+%28Small%29.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxU2VfQMqrMyqTAu9HD8zyAo6DvlUzZjFQNteo7YIBqAMJU6N9vpRuR-PTVcbAtXLUOBbX2LGx-sa1-2UyShRNmWsGxYoCc74qGjZ14yScnwl0DQnh4iKACNNyoETlpedg4h4q1IelwA/s1600-h/DSC01873+%28Small%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxU2VfQMqrMyqTAu9HD8zyAo6DvlUzZjFQNteo7YIBqAMJU6N9vpRuR-PTVcbAtXLUOBbX2LGx-sa1-2UyShRNmWsGxYoCc74qGjZ14yScnwl0DQnh4iKACNNyoETlpedg4h4q1IelwA/s320/DSC01873+%28Small%29.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-65213380824130439262009-10-25T20:30:00.002+02:002009-10-25T20:30:39.853+02:00Dance Skillz...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7d-VvkZkyt0q2W4x2G9_o6EuDbMXa1REg9MbAmVOD8eR0-fVPcSf_48onLgQSLQU20dHanVW32RnAUh3m7NUWnGPk4gmLWaC9UQstVrl0808Gw7mHhi9Tso6Z7WOgQJ8KFS9elCkr0Cs/s1600-h/DSC01940+%28Small%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7d-VvkZkyt0q2W4x2G9_o6EuDbMXa1REg9MbAmVOD8eR0-fVPcSf_48onLgQSLQU20dHanVW32RnAUh3m7NUWnGPk4gmLWaC9UQstVrl0808Gw7mHhi9Tso6Z7WOgQJ8KFS9elCkr0Cs/s320/DSC01940+%28Small%29.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-42790604870192940882009-10-18T14:26:00.001+02:002009-10-18T14:26:41.334+02:00What Internet?Hi all,<br />
<br />
Sorry that it has been so long since my last post. I have been a busy woman! <br />
<br />
I am writing this full of frustrations. I just want to clarify right now, before I start to rant, that I do love South Africa. There are many wonderful things about this country. I will get into the good things another time, right now I want to talk about what needs to be changed.<br />
<br />
First off, the internet here sucks. The entire system is ridiculous and unfair. The way you purchase Internet in South Africa is by megabytes or gigabytes. It is very expensive. You have to purchase it through a telephone company. The company I choose to purchase from is called Vodacom, which is a cellular company. I believe that there are only 3, yes 3, different cellular phone companies here. Not much competition. In order to make the internet work, I had to purchase a special USB stick that holds a SIM card. I then had to purchase a SIM card. After I bought a new SIM card I had to buy the amount of megabytes I wanted. Being that I don't have credit in South Africa, I cannot purchase a year contract with monthly plans. This is unfortunate because it would have saved me a tremendous amount of money. If I could purchase the yearly contract, I would have gotten a free USB stick-SIM card holder. Instead I had to buy one for $1,399 Rand which is around $200 US dollars. YIKES! I then purchased one gigabyte of internet access. This cost about $300 rand or $35 US dollars. This gigabyte supposedly was meant to last a month. Let me tell you how long it took me to use it all...... 7 HOURS!!!!!! I am still in shock over this. <br />
<br />
I do not understand how companies can charge per gigabyte. It is insane, it doesn't make sense. Why are you only allowed to download a certain amount of things before being penalized? I miss the vast, great, FREE internet access in the US. I mean, it isn't really free. But it certainly isn't restricted. UGH.<br />
<br />
The reason why companies are getting away with this is because a lot of people here are uneducated and do not understand how the internet works. They don't understand that they should not be paying per megabyte, but per month for a plan that allows unrestricted access. I am so frustrated by this that I am planning on writing in to local newspapers to make people aware of how they are being manipulated and used by companies. These companies need to change, and it all starts with public awareness to the problem. If my work Visa is denied it is because I went on an internet rampage.. but I don't care. Someone has to be the first to step up and address the problem. Let it be a stereotypical loud-mouthed American.Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-4734830165500559132009-10-08T15:03:00.001+02:002009-10-08T15:04:21.636+02:00Profession: Rugby PlayerLast night I practiced with a local women's rugby team. I was under the assumption that this would be a kick-around women's fun league type thing. I have never been more wrong in my life! We were put through intense drills, sprints, etc. There was also a full-on coach. After practice (which was a blast and a great work-out) the coach came up to me and said that he was bummed that I was moving to Cape Town for two months, but that he would be there next week and could bring my paycheck with him. MY PAYCHECK!?!?!?!?! My jaw must have hit the ground. I was, and still am, in shock. Apparently you are paid per practice and per match to play on that team. The team is affiliated to the Lions, which is a men's pro team. I practiced with a women's semi-pro team and was paid for it, as a walk on. Crazy sauce. Does this make me a professional athlete? I think so. :-)<br />
<br />
Life is good my friends.. too good.Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-8856890279556056502009-10-05T16:06:00.001+02:002009-10-05T16:16:38.145+02:00On the road again..Hello friends,<br />
<br />
Goeie more (good morning in Afrikaans). I hope everyone had a great weekend. I went to my first professional rugby match on Saturday. It was a blast and I am now addicted. :-) I actually will be practicing with a team on Wednesday. I just can't keep away from sports for too long, they keep me sane. I am a Blue Bulls fan, if anyone is wondering. Also, I recently discovered that the US has a national women's rugby team. Maybe it's not too late to pursue becoming a professional athlete after-all! ........... Just kidding Mom and Dad..... you can breath again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNxF8e-2YzkbcQa4_sUZO2M75TQEUItEdsh3QquBsFasgC__AdnwCNQBaaEXUBAGTtV8Es4C1IZeV96Vk0TmDN159wneSh0VCQjRxQ3fJQOFeaBxbLYESCsptYGqv57kbM1F2GYiPPDA/s1600-h/PA020112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNxF8e-2YzkbcQa4_sUZO2M75TQEUItEdsh3QquBsFasgC__AdnwCNQBaaEXUBAGTtV8Es4C1IZeV96Vk0TmDN159wneSh0VCQjRxQ3fJQOFeaBxbLYESCsptYGqv57kbM1F2GYiPPDA/s320/PA020112.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Lisa, Kate, and I watching the Bulls annihilate the Griquas.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks to Lisa for the awesome tickets!<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>On Monday I will be moving to Cape Town to work at the Sports Science Institute, I will be there for about 2 months working on a child outreach program. I will drive to Cape Town with Lynray (Ezlyn's brother). It will be a 10-13 hour drive depending on traffic, road construction, and the amount of stops we decide to make. Also, I will be driving on the opposite side of the road than what I am used to. That should be an interesting experience. The car is a manual and being that people drive on the opposite side of the road in SA, the drivers side is also opposite and you shift with your left hand. This is a strange thing to get used to.<br />
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Cape Town is a great city and I am looking forward to spending some time there. But I am sad to leave the friends that I have recently made in Johannesburg, I will be back soon though!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
For the last few days I have been craving Starbucks coffee like nobodies business. There is not a single Starbucks in South Africa!!! Can you believe that? Damn. Instant coffee is very popular in SA, and it hasn't been quenching my coffee cravings. Tish is going to send me a care package though. She is a life saver! Thanks buddy!<br />
<br />
<br />
That's all for now. <br />
<br />
Gesondheid! (Cheers)<br />
<br />
HilaryHilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-51524598300589840652009-10-01T11:20:00.001+02:002009-10-01T11:20:43.650+02:00Art of LivingThis to me is what we should all be trying to achieve in life. It is posted on one of my coworkers walls. <br />
<br />
The Master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his education and his recreation, his love and his religion. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence in whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him he is always doing both.<br />
<br />
-- Zen Buddhist TextHilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-10725033521226053212009-09-30T11:45:00.002+02:002009-09-30T11:49:25.487+02:00Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LPaWLfwmOMkisFixQftSKPGg7Yi6IWR8z6drcZZGcikRaYq18HE7aUGvhM0ezzZo8eFyuypaJ15FZuIoOe38Kvl-cAY9Iex9yu3whnFqlqTgQCRfoDP7mEjzOx93nTL8le4ojpScw6E/s1600-h/P9230099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LPaWLfwmOMkisFixQftSKPGg7Yi6IWR8z6drcZZGcikRaYq18HE7aUGvhM0ezzZo8eFyuypaJ15FZuIoOe38Kvl-cAY9Iex9yu3whnFqlqTgQCRfoDP7mEjzOx93nTL8le4ojpScw6E/s320/P9230099.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKLlwBgE-__-3c4GirwBeo2UXH9k7uHkgMtGksQ0kBmqCExq_ujXs8ci_5NEeiE_aExNVc6CJwamdZBCklspWoD0U28ZKMEEh1kyM6wgqtXvlOB1vc0ybbN5jDZZ2Cu9K6m5II2vkCdq0/s1600-h/P9240109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKLlwBgE-__-3c4GirwBeo2UXH9k7uHkgMtGksQ0kBmqCExq_ujXs8ci_5NEeiE_aExNVc6CJwamdZBCklspWoD0U28ZKMEEh1kyM6wgqtXvlOB1vc0ybbN5jDZZ2Cu9K6m5II2vkCdq0/s320/P9240109.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The World Cup is less than a year away! I'm jumping for joy on our hike in <span style="font-size: small;">Pietermaritzburg.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYt5rcNgXeWRfwebD3yl61UawGuV6uhe2pMwTPWoT8ooXswgdtT0t8pR27oWCPqnON_nN01Z3uf45o1XYHQiI-rZGfuovG1Ub65BAUGcgWM8LlkkYSULooEummiN4JUAho_slPv9HFfE/s1600-h/P9260206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYt5rcNgXeWRfwebD3yl61UawGuV6uhe2pMwTPWoT8ooXswgdtT0t8pR27oWCPqnON_nN01Z3uf45o1XYHQiI-rZGfuovG1Ub65BAUGcgWM8LlkkYSULooEummiN4JUAho_slPv9HFfE/s320/P9260206.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is what's left of a waffle covered in ice cream, bar one chocolate sauce, and various syrups. Mmmmm! I could get used to this! <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlgwAUHB1WZ57x9V_LXdY1H-DOxTOxSHdJHFUlAio1fHtDCfOzqQkFyxEtbfatbN_10F-qS-42NKpBdp_DebHEItXsDyexJEjomWhzISWcu7LdTKl_5B8zUt74-uaJEXX1EKnP6CQgEQ/s1600-h/P9250145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlgwAUHB1WZ57x9V_LXdY1H-DOxTOxSHdJHFUlAio1fHtDCfOzqQkFyxEtbfatbN_10F-qS-42NKpBdp_DebHEItXsDyexJEjomWhzISWcu7LdTKl_5B8zUt74-uaJEXX1EKnP6CQgEQ/s320/P9250145.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">A little bit of fun on the beach between meals. <br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-58078391699516520452009-09-28T15:00:00.002+02:002009-09-28T15:02:04.018+02:00The DAD Fund and Tour de VinoFor info on what I am working on click on this link. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=142887812047">http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=142887812047</a> This is a new organization that was started by Lyndon Barends and his daughter Ezlyn. We are in the process of organizing everything.<br />
<br />
I am also working on the Tour de Vino. It is a bike race that hosts 4,000 competitors, both professional and amateur. There is a mountain bike race and a road race. I am in the process of contacting companies who may want to donate their products to be in the competitor's goody bags. Hopefully I can get some good stuff for the athletes!Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-32653720193352955882009-09-28T14:53:00.000+02:002009-09-28T14:53:22.479+02:00Food and Fun in the SunHello,<br />
<br />
I made it back from Durban in one piece. It was a great long weekend. The highlight for me was going to the Prawn Shack, which is about an hour and a half outside of Durban. It is literally a two story shack on the beach. The first level is a bar and the second level is where you sit and get food. You arrive around 11:30am and have a 7 course meal that is spread throughout the day. In between courses you can go downstairs to the bar or take a walk to the beach. The food was delicious and atmosphere was laid-back. They have a shot of tequila in which they put in a small live prawn. We had to have one because it is a right of passage at this place. My shot had 5 prawns in it and one that was giant. It was awful! I can't believe I was convinced to do it. There were swings next to the bar instead of stools. They were a lot of fun until they became painful. No, they do not work like normal swings, my scrapped up and bruised knee is proof.<br />
<br />
Yesterday we spent some time at the beach. I attempted to go surfing for a little while. I did catch a few waves on my stomach, but I was not able to stand up this time. The waves were a little tricky. We also ate a traditional African restaurant. I had an ostrich burger, it was really good. Ostrich meat is similar to beef, but it is healthier. We then had waffles and ice cream for desert. The theme of our weekend was definitely food.<br />
<br />
Last night I found out that the Sports Science Institute would like me to come work for them from October 12 through December 12. They are based in Cape Town, so I will be moving there a little sooner than expected. I will be working on a child outreach program on top of the projects that I am currently working on. At the moment I am working on a cycling race called Tour de Vino and an organization called the DAD Fund. I am going to be pretty busy for a while!<br />
<br />
I will post videos (yes, videos!!) and photos later today.Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-68361479899759103652009-09-23T14:56:00.000+02:002009-09-23T14:56:54.533+02:00Sun, Surf and SandI am currently sitting in the Matchworld office surrounded by signed jerseys, sports posters, and Coke bottles. There is a TV that is playing a soccer match and there are people walking around in rugby jerseys. I am in sports heaven. :-) One of the projects that I am currently working on is called Tour de Vino. It is a bike race through wine country. It is both a road race and a mountain bike race, there will be 4,000 participants! I will have another entry explaining more about what I am doing work-wise another time. <br />
<br />
Tomorrow morning, bright and early, Ezlyn and I are off to Durban. It is a sub-tropical city that sits on the Indian Ocean. It is known for good surfing and lots of fun in the sun. Tomorrow (Thursday) is a public holiday in South Africa. It is Heritage Day and national Braai (BBQ) day. People are really into Braais here. They even have a website dedicated to Braai. Here is the website: http://braai4heritage.co.za/ I am currently downloading the Braai song, which was recorded by a collaboration of famous musicians in SA. It's catchy.<br />
<br />
Ezlyn and I will be meeting up with one of her friends that is doing her residency in Durban. I am excited to jump on a surfboard again, it has been a while. The ocean that I will be in is known for having a high population of sharks, so if you don't hear from me for a while it means that Jaws won. Just kidding Mom..<br />
<br />
<br />
Here is your random South African fact for the day:<br />
<br />
When people say something will be done "just now" what they really mean is it will be done later on. When they say that something will be done "now" it means that it will happen in a little while. When they say something will be done "now now" it will be done at that moment. Don't make the mistake of standing around when someone promises you something "just now", you run the risk of looking like an idiot. Not that I know this from personal experience or anything. :)<br />
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Have a good weekend! I know I will!Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-78491901135968149902009-09-22T16:02:00.000+02:002009-09-22T16:02:18.670+02:00Ok, maybe the one with the lizard is a bit of an exaggeration.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmMaNEc99wsOhVcHSblgKQehhrnMmDxfMsakpHdquvrx7aJGBTXW-EPOKH7k61ts9R_Df-Xty3iLlUzQEHYN63GgiWwRg9WkemPxdAME1qi4844O5imCGuqcCV7HtcWewMElrABQ9Cs34/s1600-h/giant_house_spider_joanna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmMaNEc99wsOhVcHSblgKQehhrnMmDxfMsakpHdquvrx7aJGBTXW-EPOKH7k61ts9R_Df-Xty3iLlUzQEHYN63GgiWwRg9WkemPxdAME1qi4844O5imCGuqcCV7HtcWewMElrABQ9Cs34/s320/giant_house_spider_joanna.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwzUWVz115e7EbAg2d83yJqNnQPM0dTvt1wDnyFUopcpLe0g0geKhiDy6VgBdFbLfDvXNprSK8kgvpfDYNU7l8D60ht9kL6GEe4z9_7blviWrpc8CilTRywzykFUQgCKIqDJbmKEkCVA/s1600-h/giant-spider-in-back-yard-eating-lizard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwzUWVz115e7EbAg2d83yJqNnQPM0dTvt1wDnyFUopcpLe0g0geKhiDy6VgBdFbLfDvXNprSK8kgvpfDYNU7l8D60ht9kL6GEe4z9_7blviWrpc8CilTRywzykFUQgCKIqDJbmKEkCVA/s320/giant-spider-in-back-yard-eating-lizard.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-67501568706957526222009-09-22T15:59:00.000+02:002009-09-22T15:59:21.747+02:00A Not So Welcome VisitorHello friends. <br />
<br />
Last night as we were settling in, I was in my room and I heard Ezlyn scream and run out of her room. So naturally I got up and asked her what was going on. She said that there was a giant spider in her room. I am not a fan of spiders, not even a little bit. But, I was curious as to how big a "giant" spider is in SA. Well, it was as big as my hand. No joke. I have NEVER seen a spider that big other than on TV and in a zoo. I didn't see it at first because it was on her closet door, right in front of my face!!! As soon as I saw it I had a mini heart attack. We got her mom and she grabbed some bug killing spray. I had a shoe in my hand and Ezlyn had a broom. I honestly don't know how we would have gotten it out of the house without killing it. I also grabbed my camera. Estee attacked the giant spider with the spray, and I took a picture of it when it was curled into a ball. I thought it was dead at this point, I was very wrong. As I was taking a picture of it, it uncurled from the ball and ran at me. HOLY CRAP!!! Did I ever scream like a little girl, Estee and Ezlyn were yelling for me to hit it with the shoe. I did just that, the shoe didn't even cover the entire body of the spider. I then took a picture of the squashed spider.<br />
<br />
After this traumatic experience it was very difficult to fall asleep. We think the giant man-eating spider got in because the windows are open in the house. My windows are shut, and will now remain shut for the rest of my time here. I do not want to wake up to a crawly, huge, visitor. Every time something tickled me last night I was convinced that there was a spider in my bed. Yuck. But it's ok though, because apparently only the small spiders are poisonous. :-O Ironically enough, I think I was the most brave out of everyone last night. I mean, I did get close to it to take a picture. Ezlyn and I both got up early for work this morning. Neither of us got much sleep last night, we both had the creepy crawlies. I will post my photos later.Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-61052256444443620162009-09-20T14:28:00.000+02:002009-09-20T14:28:45.714+02:00Poor Giraffe..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg928rUHgSH7wRofTDShQiRgcAEjY3Flk2a5ldIKfLLAlQoMnZmjF8KYmTpXWUiAeJA_GdY8ybABuamrmDrdpktwFhc5AFulT9KCI7AXBejCOO8l8R9CLz8_A5gIY9oN7uJVId0bsDYROo/s1600-h/P9180139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg928rUHgSH7wRofTDShQiRgcAEjY3Flk2a5ldIKfLLAlQoMnZmjF8KYmTpXWUiAeJA_GdY8ybABuamrmDrdpktwFhc5AFulT9KCI7AXBejCOO8l8R9CLz8_A5gIY9oN7uJVId0bsDYROo/s320/P9180139.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-41234242271137881412009-09-20T14:22:00.000+02:002009-09-20T14:22:42.833+02:00New friends.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6I6pYL-nY5vZJmfk2Pv4ehTV9vlKVrsHY03qh5CnoFiveHVsZED7u2NVO34-3OoiVDycDA4KcUsR_kcDxg4mMWCi_hvaQ1to9m2CxraahMMsJVYM7oZaGXfb9xghfVyVFtoyr6s1wO34/s1600-h/P9180137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6I6pYL-nY5vZJmfk2Pv4ehTV9vlKVrsHY03qh5CnoFiveHVsZED7u2NVO34-3OoiVDycDA4KcUsR_kcDxg4mMWCi_hvaQ1to9m2CxraahMMsJVYM7oZaGXfb9xghfVyVFtoyr6s1wO34/s320/P9180137.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-38522331816366786882009-09-20T13:03:00.000+02:002009-09-20T13:04:45.647+02:00House MusicDear diary,<br />
<br />
Last night/this morning I went to my first rave. It was pretty sweet, but crazy. It is everything I ever imagined a rave to be like. I have found that house music is very popular here. In fact, it is pretty much all that I have listened to while in the car with Ezlyn and her friends. It was also the only thing being played at the club. I have to say that it grows on you for a while, and then it all just begins to sound the same. But I may change my opinion of it as time goes on and more house music is forced into my ears. ;) It is just different than what I am used to I suppose.<br />
<br />
After not sleeping a wink last night, I am a bit tired this morning. But I still managed to make scrambled eggs and pancakes for everyone this morning for brunch. People in SA like to put ice cream on their pancakes, did I mention that I really like it here? Ice cream is a favorite food of mine. And since I am talking about food, everything I have eaten here has been wonderful. Estee (Mrs. Barends) is a very good cook and I certainly wont be going hungry anytime soon. Maybe it is time to once again pull my running shoes out of retirement.<br />
<br />
Ezlyn's friends are an awesome bunch. I met a lot of them yesterday and I look forward to spending some more time with them. Maybe next time I can introduce them to some "real" music, like Tegan and Sara.<br />
<br />
Keeping it real in Johannesburg,<br />
<br />
HilaryHilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-58772706596037814742009-09-18T17:20:00.000+02:002009-09-18T23:25:04.021+02:00Chilis Coaster.. Dubai<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPl-8Kvy5_WIQuiliMqOdfdX2zRXpdSN4E2geJNGYNRjMVJOm9yiq6pvHCWiJFr_bXm9kBXq_GfVe-RaOlRK5_XcKDVqLIdDXLJJHzMpszaaS4l_n_kFQ0CbQvmf22GmZF35s2dfU49w/s1600-h/Photo+56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPl-8Kvy5_WIQuiliMqOdfdX2zRXpdSN4E2geJNGYNRjMVJOm9yiq6pvHCWiJFr_bXm9kBXq_GfVe-RaOlRK5_XcKDVqLIdDXLJJHzMpszaaS4l_n_kFQ0CbQvmf22GmZF35s2dfU49w/s320/Photo+56.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249371587751445426.post-77862549312152940652009-09-18T17:18:00.000+02:002009-09-18T23:08:09.731+02:00Traffic in Dubai... Madness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdK2I6dEMz3N_kWp7B9aELsd32tAm4SYmMExQD7c5gP6Kp0Dk-9w-830qmwelGXwJ8YV6MxhrPTG-FuEutMxMwZUTTyztOTX2FvAh0ekcsGPpBKKqz20_kbL_dsFTWvO8z3sT-Aj3HDCw/s1600-h/IMG_0496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdK2I6dEMz3N_kWp7B9aELsd32tAm4SYmMExQD7c5gP6Kp0Dk-9w-830qmwelGXwJ8YV6MxhrPTG-FuEutMxMwZUTTyztOTX2FvAh0ekcsGPpBKKqz20_kbL_dsFTWvO8z3sT-Aj3HDCw/s320/IMG_0496.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Hilary Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14342110106599660922noreply@blogger.com0