I saw in front of my very own eyes here in Pretoria, USA beat Algeria 1-0 in the SA World Cup. There were 35,000 there and I was one of them. I am completely exhausted, I can barely think strait but had to mark this day down on teh day. I went with Martin's bro Mo, and we had the best time I will tell you now, I cried at the end. Not much, but it was one of those moments, you could only feel and experience with no words. Everyone lingered. Greatest match to see yet of my life. And the adventure continues.
All I can say, so that the trip is a bit marked out for my parents to follow in case I don't have internet for awhile. Nicolai is here in Jo and working this out with me, I'm so pumped!
TOmorrow picking me up on way to Polokwane he said in black taxi with his maid of 20 years Lucy or something. WE're ALL watching NZ vs Italy and I"ll meet and see my Kiwi's! May we win! THEN, best part, we're stayin at Lucy's home at a township in Polokwane. YES it's going to be awesome Nic said. So he said bring sleeping bag and warm cltohes. Oh by the way, Izak did get my flyers at airport and smuggled them directly to my doorstep here at Martin's parents house tonight, God is totally aamazing!
THEN, Fri we drive to Jo, grab Sara at airport, then we're going to find the church my friend's from YWAM are based at, stay there. Then plan is come back to Pretoria Sat/Sun, an stay at Nic's aunt's friend's mansion or something. I threw Mansion in taht part cause he said it was real nice. THEN, we may go back to Jo, and finish the plans on our travel to Krugar, depending on transport, for our 4 day safari trip! I am falling over. ACtually falling asleep.
Hope you saw my smiling/crying face on television. The games roll on and the blessings keep pouring. Please pray God will use me and keep us safe! Love you and thank you all for helping provide this opportunity! AMEN
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
And the dream rolls on...
Mom, Dad, I'm safe and sound tonight. I wasn't sure how things were going to look earlier in the day with no clue of anything except I had a flight to Jo leaving at 2:10, which ended up nto even leaving until 4. But I even wrote a long bit of blog to cut and paste to update, and I haven't connected here so you don't get the full back up story. Yes when I post it, you will be in reverse. But here I am for now...
I am at Martin's amazing parent's home in Pretoria. Yes never knew this would happen, at least not at this time in my trip. I figured I might get a chance with Martin when he gets done with WC but, I booked a flight and had not many places to end up, (in the end) so I threw a last minute text to Martin if his parents offer was still up. He demanded I called his dad Boet and mother Irene asap! I even have met his brother and divine intervention he claims, has a ticket for me and his other son Marious to go see USA VS Algeria tomorrow! Seriously am knocked off my feet. I hate being an inconvenience but I know at least one night is down and I have more to come.
I had lovely dinner, watched football, met their friends, oh and getting here to Pretoria was hilarious in itself. I met adn sat by these amazing Algerian fans on teh plane, learned all about Muhammed, was pretty much proposed to, and then went with them to get a shuttle. I met 2 more Americans before that in the Mug and Bean who were staying at Kia Ora hostel and had an american ticket for $160. I took their # in case, but once I heard from Martin about parents I thought I should take the offer. In this effort to get a shuttle with Algerians bargaining, for R60 I piled in a van and headed an hour to Pretoria learning Arabic along the way. Had driver speak with Martin's brother on the phone adn even tually we met them on the side of the highway because the driver didn't know where this restaraunt was. It was hilarious and what a joy and treat to see Martin's father openly welcome and kiss me and meet his lovely brother as well. Oh GOd has me under his wing!
WOW, so yes USA at 4pm here tomorrow then really not sure wehre to next. I know that we have Safari booked in Kruger with Nic Sara and I 28-4th then not sure before nor after. Hopefully I can get brochures from Izak whom I left at the police station in CT airport because 30kgs over weight limit was way too expensive.
Met this Honduran man Ricardo today at airport and we shared our life stories and breathed life into each other's experiences to brighter one another's day. Really was energizing!
I'm completely exhausted, but trying to reach my kiwi friends, get tickets for thursday, and possibly a ride. Who knows what will come about, please keep in prayer that the LOrd shines through his vessel while I'm here. Thank you so much for all your support, love you
I am at Martin's amazing parent's home in Pretoria. Yes never knew this would happen, at least not at this time in my trip. I figured I might get a chance with Martin when he gets done with WC but, I booked a flight and had not many places to end up, (in the end) so I threw a last minute text to Martin if his parents offer was still up. He demanded I called his dad Boet and mother Irene asap! I even have met his brother and divine intervention he claims, has a ticket for me and his other son Marious to go see USA VS Algeria tomorrow! Seriously am knocked off my feet. I hate being an inconvenience but I know at least one night is down and I have more to come.
I had lovely dinner, watched football, met their friends, oh and getting here to Pretoria was hilarious in itself. I met adn sat by these amazing Algerian fans on teh plane, learned all about Muhammed, was pretty much proposed to, and then went with them to get a shuttle. I met 2 more Americans before that in the Mug and Bean who were staying at Kia Ora hostel and had an american ticket for $160. I took their # in case, but once I heard from Martin about parents I thought I should take the offer. In this effort to get a shuttle with Algerians bargaining, for R60 I piled in a van and headed an hour to Pretoria learning Arabic along the way. Had driver speak with Martin's brother on the phone adn even tually we met them on the side of the highway because the driver didn't know where this restaraunt was. It was hilarious and what a joy and treat to see Martin's father openly welcome and kiss me and meet his lovely brother as well. Oh GOd has me under his wing!
WOW, so yes USA at 4pm here tomorrow then really not sure wehre to next. I know that we have Safari booked in Kruger with Nic Sara and I 28-4th then not sure before nor after. Hopefully I can get brochures from Izak whom I left at the police station in CT airport because 30kgs over weight limit was way too expensive.
Met this Honduran man Ricardo today at airport and we shared our life stories and breathed life into each other's experiences to brighter one another's day. Really was energizing!
I'm completely exhausted, but trying to reach my kiwi friends, get tickets for thursday, and possibly a ride. Who knows what will come about, please keep in prayer that the LOrd shines through his vessel while I'm here. Thank you so much for all your support, love you
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Brazil always pleases me
They play the most beautiful football ever! Never ever freeze up on the ball not even in defense where most teams boot the ball high and wide. No oh no no not these brilliant players. What is it they do to prepare all their lives? Anyways, i loved the show and performance last night. Bravo boys bravo!
I won't stay long since it's National Youth Day and I must get out and about. Get a work out in, head into town, meeting up Grant Knight from Vienna and originally the states I'd love to hear about his adventures and what he's doing with soccer and ministries especially in Vienna with the surge. We'll see.
Well, I pray for guidance, wisdom, living for the day, grace, and servant leadership with a humble heart. I pray to make God smile even when the doors are closed. NO especially when the doors are closed.
I love you all, and pray that I can continue to experience and help others experience more wonders of this world cup and our God.
Bafana Bafana!
I won't stay long since it's National Youth Day and I must get out and about. Get a work out in, head into town, meeting up Grant Knight from Vienna and originally the states I'd love to hear about his adventures and what he's doing with soccer and ministries especially in Vienna with the surge. We'll see.
Well, I pray for guidance, wisdom, living for the day, grace, and servant leadership with a humble heart. I pray to make God smile even when the doors are closed. NO especially when the doors are closed.
I love you all, and pray that I can continue to experience and help others experience more wonders of this world cup and our God.
Bafana Bafana!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
History
Can’t even begin to tell you what an experience and dream come true I’ve already had here at the world cup. Honestly the best day of my life. Ok, in comparison to when I go to heaven, it’s gonna remain up there. I’ll walk you through my tears of joy.
I couldn’t sleep knowing I was going to get tickets into the stadium, in one of the best cities in the world for a real World Cup match. Not just nay match but with the world champs Italy vs. striving competing Paraguay. All of this plus the rain pouring down hard all night kept me awake. I rose even before my alarm went off at 7 to get ready for the soccer camps with Living Hope. I rose and sent me messages making sure thre even were camps for the day. I arrived at base with Zach’s team and my new friend Scooter whom we played with on Sunday and had asked her to come with me to the match knowing she appreciated it just as much as I was going to!!! Kevin said still come out we’ll try and figure something out and see if weather clears up. So we took off around 8.
We showed up and despite past results, there were tons of volunteers. Some of Living Hope, some YWAM and some were from Ubuntu alone with Taylor Uni girls. We already had a few kids ther in the pouring rain from who knows where. We rushed into this primary classroom next to the fields just to try and get some sort of communication. This girl Meg looked into this community center nearby and as we introduced ourselves and looked into what Kevin had written down for plans, we tried to look into what we may get to do, IF kids showed up. So we ended up getting the center in the end and I ran with the few wet kids already to the center soaking more, and opened the doors to set up what we could in the tiny hall. We were blessed with it despite not having to pay last minute, but in Ocean View the town was quite dead. No kids really came, we tried to gather together, split center in 3 sections and by about 10:30 at this time, it ended up being not a whole lot of kids to do anything. So we at least prayed and looked into what we could do for the following days if we end up there again the next day. So exhausted and knowing I wanted to get my day going with tickets ahead of me at 8:30pm, we left. I didn’t know what to expect but knew I needed some sleep, so I tried to nap when we got back, and hardly won that battle. I got ready, bundles up, found what red white and blue Paraguay colors to wear while Scooter said she was going to support Italy so we could battle all night! I wore gum boots and this bright yellow coat I had, wore a backpack packed with extra gear and poncho. I was expecting the worst with how the weather had been all day. Scooter had this awesome pink hat on with green bandana and this wild skirt over her soccer pants, and we were off on the train in the rain! Ha! Screaming and already hello Ayoba and Ole ole ole ole…we hopped on the packed train around 3.
When we got into Cape Town, I had friends from base and others who were going to be having drinks and watching the 4pm match prior to the CT match. So we were waiting to hear from Martin where to pick up the tickets.
I got this phone call right when we arrived and he was like basically you need to scavenger hunt and find this building where your tickets are on this 4th floor. Oh man what an adventure it was. We made sure to stop and take pictures here and there, enjoying the moment and also asking where this building was, oh gosh to Africans, you can never get a direct or correct answer. Eventually we found the Murry Roberts Building, and then I see this sign that says FIFA VIP tickiets. YES I said VIP!! I was flipping out. Scooter was flipping out. She was saying you didn’t tell me!!!! I was saying I had no clue!!!! So we take this elevator to 4th floor and realize we’re scooping up FIFA world cup VIP tickets!! I stopped breathing, I shed more tears and we screamed and even had the man take our photo behind the desk. He was like now you even have VIP transport, so I recommend not going to the water front and get to the stadium asap because you can ALWAYS go to the waterfront but not VIP for World Cup with free food/drinks/service etc. So we got directions to the place we needed to catch our VIP bus and we were literally running through the streets of Cape Town screaming and laughing and yelling Paraguay!!! Italy!!!
We found the place when it began pouring down rain again and it was so nice to have these people in suits and lady’s taking us around, taking our passes, taking out umbrellas, check our gear and then get us on this lil bus just the two of us to get to the stadium. The FIFA volunteers have been amazing!!! (needless to say I find out later that during this whole night there was a bomb threat (could have been us), a strike on stewardists and a riot)
So we get to this area of stadium, I shed more tears on the van sharing the moment with Scooter in awe! We thank our escorts and hop in another line of people outside the stadium. Right when we’re about to think we can’t get in in that way, we hear cheering and start working our way through. Again, we’re screaming and loving our VIP tickets with our gum boots and funky attire! People were loving it!
We then start to wonder, ok where do VIP enter? We’re then looking into any and every door we see. It was like we all of a sudden thought we were the presidents! Eventually we get to this entrance where we see access to walk through down by where the team and VIP’s drive in. We show our tickets to this door, and they kept guiding us to the next door, and the next. We’re like, freak man, where are we VIP suppose to enter! The last door, was literally the entrance to where the players go to the locker rooms!!! We were like don’t tell us that’s where we’re going, because if this is true, we’re not JUST VIP!!! Later we found out why we were getting pushed into different doors. Our tickets said VVIP, which we thought wasn’t a good thing. So we go back to this entrance where they tell us to go again, and finally get into this red carpet door. We took our pictures with the desk people there and were again, screaming and shouting with joy!!! We got our free game guides and then whisked to the 4th floor where VIP section was. We enter these doors where there’s people standing holding every drink imaginable at the entrance, I immediately grab some champagne and we cheers to the VIP section!! We took photos, we were screaming, I’m again in black gum boots, bright yellow coat with fur, and a white cap. There were only a few tables at the moment with men in suits. Oh man oh man we stood out like a sore thumb!!! It was hilarious and as soon as I entered I shouted PARAGUAY!!!!
So we were led to this table close to the window doors in this maculate room, and I realize I was being rude and immediately went and introduced us to this table of suited men. I explained how excited we were, and a brief intro of why Scooter was wearing a TUG identification, The Ultimate Goal (network of Christian ministries for the world cup) and then we still feel like they’re wondering why we’re there. I ask the head man, Chuck Blazer, what he does and he says he makes decisions for FIFA. I met all these other FIFA CONCAF execs and wonder, WOW what are we doing here, and why is no one else really here yet, I mean I knew we were early…but it was kinda weird. I thought, did Martin do this on purpose?
We set our bags down and jackets down and I head to the bathroom, I get asked not to leave this certain door, and then I realize when I went out and into the right room, we were actually in VVIP room with Chuck and the other rooms surrounding were VIP only. We had access to them all!!! So we go into ladies room, where I find of course, condoms on the counter for these crazy people, and leave in disgust. We go back to our VVIP and gather our drinks back up. I thought I must make a better impression than this…so I went to join Chuck on the couch.
We instantly strike up football chat, and apparently this man is Mr. FIFA and best part was he started US women’s soccer in 1984. www.chuckblazer.blogspot.com
Chuck then proceeds to ask me if he can see my tickets. This is when I get worried. I give him my tickets and he looks at this VVIP and asks more equestions and I then realize as he tells me, that WOW we set off an alarm literally!!! We were a possible bomb threat. I’m not joking!!! Yes, we had these tickets that somehow we shouldn’t have had access to, we come in randomly, we are brightly colored, not like anyone else there, we apparently had these people downstairs phone upstairs to look for these 2 girls who had these weird tickets, and then when we got into the room we set our backpacks down, a table away from the FIFA men, and then ‘go to the bathroom’ which Chuck proceeded to tell me we set off an alarm and security came suspecting we left a bomb in our backpacks, we even had someone apparently follow us to the bathrooms to make sure we came out. It was unreal! I couldn’t believe he was telling me this, saying the only reason he is doing the research behind how I got tickets is because there was a loop hole or something where he has to make sure that they are safe, that’s why they have high security outside because this is the place VVIP where the governor and etc. all come. So we had slipped through and as I’m telling this Chuck where I got my innocent tickets I started to worry Martin was going to get in trouble. Chuck laughed with me and yet still seemed a bit uneasy that such things happened but said we’r emore than welcome to stay obviously, we had the right tickets now, but that he said maybe it’s because you’re cute you go so lucky. I was like no God has just blessed me beyond comprehend!!!!
Chuck and I got along great, and I loved his Chuck Team with Italo, George and Jerry. We had food, and drinks, coffee, chats, etc. Turns out we knew a lot of the same people like Bayard, the Red Bulls, Timbers, Bernie, etc., it was just madness then we were like buddies who lost the suit appeal and enjoyed one another. I was working the room in my flashy attire of gum boots and George even came up to me giving me the greatest compliment any Christian could ever have… he said some people are planets and some are stars, and you my darling have life and are a star! Now this man has no idea what the night meant to me, but I definitely had more life than anyone else there. Scooter was laughing hysterically and loving it! So funny that they even thought when we came in so loud, that Scooter with her colorful skirt, was actually part of the entertainment!!!! Ha!
We met workers there, hi execs, FIFA people, people from Spain Embassy, I saw the governor and the DA Helen Zella whomI didn’t actually get to meet later.
Chuck was amazing with his stories and was saying things like his favorite friend was Michelle Akers, and Nelson Mandella calls him Chucky. OH man oh man!!!
Eventually we went out to watch the start, but prior I had been in and out of the seating area outside dancing and screaming and pointing to the Italian players on the field like Pirlo! AHHHHHH!
We eventually went to some seats outside, met more great people, even these incredible English and Irish man Steve and Keith who take care of high end people and were enjoing themselves and us so much! We saw Paraguay and Italy have a pretty incredible battle! Oh it was exciting!!! Me and a few Paraguay fans in VIP screamed and cheered and it was incredible to see us excited ones among the rich and famous. They loved it!!! It poured all game, but we were covered and had the greatest view/company ever! Steve and Keith said we must go back to this hotel party on the roof and we couldn’t let the night end.
I had some great talks with everyone and getting to share my testimonies and what I’m doing, my passion it was great to have people who shared the same views and completely interested. Ah I was dancing around in VIP and loving it!
Martin came up to see me, and I jumped on him!!! I freaked out and just expressed my complete gratitude, hoped I didn’t get him in trouble, told him what a dream come true this all is and was, and he kept saying you deserve it you deserve it which I don’t think is true, but God does some incredible things and loves to share in our joys. I am blessed!!!
I laughed with martin when we talked about our experience getting thereon the train, running through streets, looking for face paint, setting off Bomb alarm threats, oh man oh man he just said that’s awesome!!! I love him, and all he does is make me want to be a better person! He has Jesus!
We eventually said goodbye to our friends, George and others asked why I’m not working for FIFA, which I completely agree and swapped, no wait, only they gave me their fancy business cards. I thanked them over and over and served them coffee and tea just to help around the area. We just loved it!!!
We said our goodbyes to the VVIP and joined our English friend and Irish friend to this party and ran in the rain, and even Mike Packy joined us there on this amazing Hotel rooftop. Not a whole lot happening, but we had an incredible view with this pool and it had FIFA screens to watch matches. I had coffee and the boys leaned in completely interested in my life and why I felt called here and what God has been doing for me and how Football has been a ‘tool’ and they were lingering on this and I couldn’t believe that my mouth wouldn’t stop expressing what’s happened in my life and what God means to me. It was incredible when all this time I felt I had no say and no story and this one flowed about the wonderful TRUE meaning in life despite all that lets you down which are things of this world. It was fantastic. There was even this chocolate formed world cup trophy which I of course has my picture with! I soaked up every moment, and then eventually had to catch a cab from the fanciest hotel to the train station where Scooter and I caught the 1:10am train home. It was packed and had actually other Americans from the match on going to their home stays, and were Christians here ready to leave and volunteer in Algeria.
I ended my night curled up in my sleeping bag in my freezing room, looking through my photos, laughing and exhausted from one of the greatest moments in my life. Thank you Lord for blessing me, thank you Martin, thank you everyone who’s made this dream come true!
I was too tired of course and warned the soccer camps I had this opportunity. So I made sure Amy was there for the camps today, and she was so I slept in instead of head over there. I felt it was the only match I get, I’m ok. They had more than enough volunteers which was part of my job anyways I felt. So today I’ve been trying to get little things done around the house, look into traveling north, Steve mentioned going north, a few others, and even after seeing NEW ZEALAND tie it was amazing and inspiring to get up north for more matches!!!! I have brochures and blessings and excitement I must get out and share it!!!
I’m thinking of heading downtown tonight with many to watch the Brazil match tonight and possibly catch the prayer walk with Justice Acts. I know that a friend of a friend is here Grant Knight from Cascade Surgeand what hes doing here and int eh future. I am getting pushed off, internet is down so going to office to quickly send this out. BUT ANDIE YOUD BE PROUD, I NEEDED YOU WINGMAN!
I couldn’t sleep knowing I was going to get tickets into the stadium, in one of the best cities in the world for a real World Cup match. Not just nay match but with the world champs Italy vs. striving competing Paraguay. All of this plus the rain pouring down hard all night kept me awake. I rose even before my alarm went off at 7 to get ready for the soccer camps with Living Hope. I rose and sent me messages making sure thre even were camps for the day. I arrived at base with Zach’s team and my new friend Scooter whom we played with on Sunday and had asked her to come with me to the match knowing she appreciated it just as much as I was going to!!! Kevin said still come out we’ll try and figure something out and see if weather clears up. So we took off around 8.
We showed up and despite past results, there were tons of volunteers. Some of Living Hope, some YWAM and some were from Ubuntu alone with Taylor Uni girls. We already had a few kids ther in the pouring rain from who knows where. We rushed into this primary classroom next to the fields just to try and get some sort of communication. This girl Meg looked into this community center nearby and as we introduced ourselves and looked into what Kevin had written down for plans, we tried to look into what we may get to do, IF kids showed up. So we ended up getting the center in the end and I ran with the few wet kids already to the center soaking more, and opened the doors to set up what we could in the tiny hall. We were blessed with it despite not having to pay last minute, but in Ocean View the town was quite dead. No kids really came, we tried to gather together, split center in 3 sections and by about 10:30 at this time, it ended up being not a whole lot of kids to do anything. So we at least prayed and looked into what we could do for the following days if we end up there again the next day. So exhausted and knowing I wanted to get my day going with tickets ahead of me at 8:30pm, we left. I didn’t know what to expect but knew I needed some sleep, so I tried to nap when we got back, and hardly won that battle. I got ready, bundles up, found what red white and blue Paraguay colors to wear while Scooter said she was going to support Italy so we could battle all night! I wore gum boots and this bright yellow coat I had, wore a backpack packed with extra gear and poncho. I was expecting the worst with how the weather had been all day. Scooter had this awesome pink hat on with green bandana and this wild skirt over her soccer pants, and we were off on the train in the rain! Ha! Screaming and already hello Ayoba and Ole ole ole ole…we hopped on the packed train around 3.
When we got into Cape Town, I had friends from base and others who were going to be having drinks and watching the 4pm match prior to the CT match. So we were waiting to hear from Martin where to pick up the tickets.
I got this phone call right when we arrived and he was like basically you need to scavenger hunt and find this building where your tickets are on this 4th floor. Oh man what an adventure it was. We made sure to stop and take pictures here and there, enjoying the moment and also asking where this building was, oh gosh to Africans, you can never get a direct or correct answer. Eventually we found the Murry Roberts Building, and then I see this sign that says FIFA VIP tickiets. YES I said VIP!! I was flipping out. Scooter was flipping out. She was saying you didn’t tell me!!!! I was saying I had no clue!!!! So we take this elevator to 4th floor and realize we’re scooping up FIFA world cup VIP tickets!! I stopped breathing, I shed more tears and we screamed and even had the man take our photo behind the desk. He was like now you even have VIP transport, so I recommend not going to the water front and get to the stadium asap because you can ALWAYS go to the waterfront but not VIP for World Cup with free food/drinks/service etc. So we got directions to the place we needed to catch our VIP bus and we were literally running through the streets of Cape Town screaming and laughing and yelling Paraguay!!! Italy!!!
We found the place when it began pouring down rain again and it was so nice to have these people in suits and lady’s taking us around, taking our passes, taking out umbrellas, check our gear and then get us on this lil bus just the two of us to get to the stadium. The FIFA volunteers have been amazing!!! (needless to say I find out later that during this whole night there was a bomb threat (could have been us), a strike on stewardists and a riot)
So we get to this area of stadium, I shed more tears on the van sharing the moment with Scooter in awe! We thank our escorts and hop in another line of people outside the stadium. Right when we’re about to think we can’t get in in that way, we hear cheering and start working our way through. Again, we’re screaming and loving our VIP tickets with our gum boots and funky attire! People were loving it!
We then start to wonder, ok where do VIP enter? We’re then looking into any and every door we see. It was like we all of a sudden thought we were the presidents! Eventually we get to this entrance where we see access to walk through down by where the team and VIP’s drive in. We show our tickets to this door, and they kept guiding us to the next door, and the next. We’re like, freak man, where are we VIP suppose to enter! The last door, was literally the entrance to where the players go to the locker rooms!!! We were like don’t tell us that’s where we’re going, because if this is true, we’re not JUST VIP!!! Later we found out why we were getting pushed into different doors. Our tickets said VVIP, which we thought wasn’t a good thing. So we go back to this entrance where they tell us to go again, and finally get into this red carpet door. We took our pictures with the desk people there and were again, screaming and shouting with joy!!! We got our free game guides and then whisked to the 4th floor where VIP section was. We enter these doors where there’s people standing holding every drink imaginable at the entrance, I immediately grab some champagne and we cheers to the VIP section!! We took photos, we were screaming, I’m again in black gum boots, bright yellow coat with fur, and a white cap. There were only a few tables at the moment with men in suits. Oh man oh man we stood out like a sore thumb!!! It was hilarious and as soon as I entered I shouted PARAGUAY!!!!
So we were led to this table close to the window doors in this maculate room, and I realize I was being rude and immediately went and introduced us to this table of suited men. I explained how excited we were, and a brief intro of why Scooter was wearing a TUG identification, The Ultimate Goal (network of Christian ministries for the world cup) and then we still feel like they’re wondering why we’re there. I ask the head man, Chuck Blazer, what he does and he says he makes decisions for FIFA. I met all these other FIFA CONCAF execs and wonder, WOW what are we doing here, and why is no one else really here yet, I mean I knew we were early…but it was kinda weird. I thought, did Martin do this on purpose?
We set our bags down and jackets down and I head to the bathroom, I get asked not to leave this certain door, and then I realize when I went out and into the right room, we were actually in VVIP room with Chuck and the other rooms surrounding were VIP only. We had access to them all!!! So we go into ladies room, where I find of course, condoms on the counter for these crazy people, and leave in disgust. We go back to our VVIP and gather our drinks back up. I thought I must make a better impression than this…so I went to join Chuck on the couch.
We instantly strike up football chat, and apparently this man is Mr. FIFA and best part was he started US women’s soccer in 1984. www.chuckblazer.blogspot.com
Chuck then proceeds to ask me if he can see my tickets. This is when I get worried. I give him my tickets and he looks at this VVIP and asks more equestions and I then realize as he tells me, that WOW we set off an alarm literally!!! We were a possible bomb threat. I’m not joking!!! Yes, we had these tickets that somehow we shouldn’t have had access to, we come in randomly, we are brightly colored, not like anyone else there, we apparently had these people downstairs phone upstairs to look for these 2 girls who had these weird tickets, and then when we got into the room we set our backpacks down, a table away from the FIFA men, and then ‘go to the bathroom’ which Chuck proceeded to tell me we set off an alarm and security came suspecting we left a bomb in our backpacks, we even had someone apparently follow us to the bathrooms to make sure we came out. It was unreal! I couldn’t believe he was telling me this, saying the only reason he is doing the research behind how I got tickets is because there was a loop hole or something where he has to make sure that they are safe, that’s why they have high security outside because this is the place VVIP where the governor and etc. all come. So we had slipped through and as I’m telling this Chuck where I got my innocent tickets I started to worry Martin was going to get in trouble. Chuck laughed with me and yet still seemed a bit uneasy that such things happened but said we’r emore than welcome to stay obviously, we had the right tickets now, but that he said maybe it’s because you’re cute you go so lucky. I was like no God has just blessed me beyond comprehend!!!!
Chuck and I got along great, and I loved his Chuck Team with Italo, George and Jerry. We had food, and drinks, coffee, chats, etc. Turns out we knew a lot of the same people like Bayard, the Red Bulls, Timbers, Bernie, etc., it was just madness then we were like buddies who lost the suit appeal and enjoyed one another. I was working the room in my flashy attire of gum boots and George even came up to me giving me the greatest compliment any Christian could ever have… he said some people are planets and some are stars, and you my darling have life and are a star! Now this man has no idea what the night meant to me, but I definitely had more life than anyone else there. Scooter was laughing hysterically and loving it! So funny that they even thought when we came in so loud, that Scooter with her colorful skirt, was actually part of the entertainment!!!! Ha!
We met workers there, hi execs, FIFA people, people from Spain Embassy, I saw the governor and the DA Helen Zella whomI didn’t actually get to meet later.
Chuck was amazing with his stories and was saying things like his favorite friend was Michelle Akers, and Nelson Mandella calls him Chucky. OH man oh man!!!
Eventually we went out to watch the start, but prior I had been in and out of the seating area outside dancing and screaming and pointing to the Italian players on the field like Pirlo! AHHHHHH!
We eventually went to some seats outside, met more great people, even these incredible English and Irish man Steve and Keith who take care of high end people and were enjoing themselves and us so much! We saw Paraguay and Italy have a pretty incredible battle! Oh it was exciting!!! Me and a few Paraguay fans in VIP screamed and cheered and it was incredible to see us excited ones among the rich and famous. They loved it!!! It poured all game, but we were covered and had the greatest view/company ever! Steve and Keith said we must go back to this hotel party on the roof and we couldn’t let the night end.
I had some great talks with everyone and getting to share my testimonies and what I’m doing, my passion it was great to have people who shared the same views and completely interested. Ah I was dancing around in VIP and loving it!
Martin came up to see me, and I jumped on him!!! I freaked out and just expressed my complete gratitude, hoped I didn’t get him in trouble, told him what a dream come true this all is and was, and he kept saying you deserve it you deserve it which I don’t think is true, but God does some incredible things and loves to share in our joys. I am blessed!!!
I laughed with martin when we talked about our experience getting thereon the train, running through streets, looking for face paint, setting off Bomb alarm threats, oh man oh man he just said that’s awesome!!! I love him, and all he does is make me want to be a better person! He has Jesus!
We eventually said goodbye to our friends, George and others asked why I’m not working for FIFA, which I completely agree and swapped, no wait, only they gave me their fancy business cards. I thanked them over and over and served them coffee and tea just to help around the area. We just loved it!!!
We said our goodbyes to the VVIP and joined our English friend and Irish friend to this party and ran in the rain, and even Mike Packy joined us there on this amazing Hotel rooftop. Not a whole lot happening, but we had an incredible view with this pool and it had FIFA screens to watch matches. I had coffee and the boys leaned in completely interested in my life and why I felt called here and what God has been doing for me and how Football has been a ‘tool’ and they were lingering on this and I couldn’t believe that my mouth wouldn’t stop expressing what’s happened in my life and what God means to me. It was incredible when all this time I felt I had no say and no story and this one flowed about the wonderful TRUE meaning in life despite all that lets you down which are things of this world. It was fantastic. There was even this chocolate formed world cup trophy which I of course has my picture with! I soaked up every moment, and then eventually had to catch a cab from the fanciest hotel to the train station where Scooter and I caught the 1:10am train home. It was packed and had actually other Americans from the match on going to their home stays, and were Christians here ready to leave and volunteer in Algeria.
I ended my night curled up in my sleeping bag in my freezing room, looking through my photos, laughing and exhausted from one of the greatest moments in my life. Thank you Lord for blessing me, thank you Martin, thank you everyone who’s made this dream come true!
I was too tired of course and warned the soccer camps I had this opportunity. So I made sure Amy was there for the camps today, and she was so I slept in instead of head over there. I felt it was the only match I get, I’m ok. They had more than enough volunteers which was part of my job anyways I felt. So today I’ve been trying to get little things done around the house, look into traveling north, Steve mentioned going north, a few others, and even after seeing NEW ZEALAND tie it was amazing and inspiring to get up north for more matches!!!! I have brochures and blessings and excitement I must get out and share it!!!
I’m thinking of heading downtown tonight with many to watch the Brazil match tonight and possibly catch the prayer walk with Justice Acts. I know that a friend of a friend is here Grant Knight from Cascade Surgeand what hes doing here and int eh future. I am getting pushed off, internet is down so going to office to quickly send this out. BUT ANDIE YOUD BE PROUD, I NEEDED YOU WINGMAN!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Dream come true !!!!
I'm going to the Italy (yes world champs) vs Paraguay tomorrow here in Cape Town magic city stadium. It's at 8:30! Please look for my painted face on television! I cannot believe what has happened. I can't tell too much I'm exhausted but today was incredible! I have early soccer camps and then hurrying myself to get ready to head downtown for festivities!!!! All day if I can ring it out as long as I can!
Martin, I can't believe it! He called me up this morning, AFTER I spoke to my bro for 2 hours as was desperately needed and completely incredible! I miss you Kale!
Martin calls, I"m rushing out the door to catch train with new American friend Scooter who is from Colorado, and major soccer nut just here volunteering too. She played college ball too. We hopped on train for 6 aside tournament today with Ambassadors, super cool! Anyways, he's like hey how you doing i'm like I just miss hearing from you martin you're in the heat of it all and I'm super glad for you. He's like so where are you watching the match tomorrow? I was like, well some big screen. He's like well how about you watch it in side the stadium? I choked on my cucumber. I started screeming and crying and woke up the whole house! I was jumping up and down adn couldn't believ eit! Lydia Elise came in and just had tears of excitemtn with me and for me. THey know how cool this is to me. I just passed out and can NEVER repay that man. He doesn't get them free, so he bought me 2 tickets. Then said I can take whoever. OH man oh man!
Long story short, I tried to think of who going would mean the very most to someone, adn freaked out whole train ride. Poor Scooter and I basically just met, but she's increidlbe. We play and there's this talented young girl on my team, all from townships and I thought wow what if I asked her. It would be somethign she'll never forget. She basicaly didn't know what do to. It's like she couldn't bear to think of going like she didn't deserve and was backing out and barely could talk to me. She just was like I think I'm busy. I thought if you need a ride I said we'll sort something out for sure this si something you're never busy for!!! But I just don't get this culture of oppressed girls and not building up guts to even speak. Oh man oh man, and in the end i couldn't grab her number. So I prayed some more for God to guide me, and I was with Scooter all day, Taylor Uni girls all going, Scooter would appreciate and doesn't have tickets, so I asked her on the train adn she freaked out. Yes she cried and is still jumping so I know it was a great decision. I feel guilty so many aren't getting to see a match and then i have to choose 1 to join me , oh man! So YES, THEN we are screaming on the train adn these 2 American guys are asking how we got tickets and have come all this way, still not getting any in all of Africa and still trying. I made great friends, swapped numbers and they are thihnking of renting a car to drive up north to more locations of matches. This is where I proceeded to tell them, I'm looking to do just that! We're meeting up before the match tomorrow for a few beers and just get READY painted faces etc!!! Yes I know others going so it's going to be a blast! I am blessed it's unreal! thank you Lord thank you. I"m exhausted and have a full on day tomorrow! AHHHHHHHHH muah!
Martin, I can't believe it! He called me up this morning, AFTER I spoke to my bro for 2 hours as was desperately needed and completely incredible! I miss you Kale!
Martin calls, I"m rushing out the door to catch train with new American friend Scooter who is from Colorado, and major soccer nut just here volunteering too. She played college ball too. We hopped on train for 6 aside tournament today with Ambassadors, super cool! Anyways, he's like hey how you doing i'm like I just miss hearing from you martin you're in the heat of it all and I'm super glad for you. He's like so where are you watching the match tomorrow? I was like, well some big screen. He's like well how about you watch it in side the stadium? I choked on my cucumber. I started screeming and crying and woke up the whole house! I was jumping up and down adn couldn't believ eit! Lydia Elise came in and just had tears of excitemtn with me and for me. THey know how cool this is to me. I just passed out and can NEVER repay that man. He doesn't get them free, so he bought me 2 tickets. Then said I can take whoever. OH man oh man!
Long story short, I tried to think of who going would mean the very most to someone, adn freaked out whole train ride. Poor Scooter and I basically just met, but she's increidlbe. We play and there's this talented young girl on my team, all from townships and I thought wow what if I asked her. It would be somethign she'll never forget. She basicaly didn't know what do to. It's like she couldn't bear to think of going like she didn't deserve and was backing out and barely could talk to me. She just was like I think I'm busy. I thought if you need a ride I said we'll sort something out for sure this si something you're never busy for!!! But I just don't get this culture of oppressed girls and not building up guts to even speak. Oh man oh man, and in the end i couldn't grab her number. So I prayed some more for God to guide me, and I was with Scooter all day, Taylor Uni girls all going, Scooter would appreciate and doesn't have tickets, so I asked her on the train adn she freaked out. Yes she cried and is still jumping so I know it was a great decision. I feel guilty so many aren't getting to see a match and then i have to choose 1 to join me , oh man! So YES, THEN we are screaming on the train adn these 2 American guys are asking how we got tickets and have come all this way, still not getting any in all of Africa and still trying. I made great friends, swapped numbers and they are thihnking of renting a car to drive up north to more locations of matches. This is where I proceeded to tell them, I'm looking to do just that! We're meeting up before the match tomorrow for a few beers and just get READY painted faces etc!!! Yes I know others going so it's going to be a blast! I am blessed it's unreal! thank you Lord thank you. I"m exhausted and have a full on day tomorrow! AHHHHHHHHH muah!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Honestly in tears
I don't mean tears from my 1st world cup day experience because if I had done that and only that, then I would be let down. Yes only because it was more frustrating trying to figure out where, when who with and how to get there for the beginning matches etc. I ended up watching at the water front, the opening, with missing the ceremonies because it's Suzie's bday and I wanted to go where she desired, but we were late and literally, NO WHERE to watch! Not even space between the masses of the big screens. I watched Mexico play SA standing on top of chairs with many other mad fans (who were awesome!) on this lil screen at an Elmo's pizza place. Yeah I'll never forget. Later we had tables reserved for the France match at this nice place off Green Market Square. ANYWAYS, I am in tears freezing sittting up here in the office of YWAM, feeling a lil down today because I think there's just so much and I feel like I"m not in the heart of it all and yet walking through the streets last night (completely reminding me of mardi gras) I was here. THere. And yet, I can't rely on this passion of the World Cup to make me happy. It's here, I've never felt more of a success in being in the presence, but even more GOd has done all of this. He has brought me here. He is making a way. He is the reason for everything. WHere I am in Timbuktu or South Africa, or whatever reason of slavery or high class, I am in His house. I need to be happy, grateful every single day and praise Him for it.
I received funds today in my account that just threw me over the wall!!! I am in tears here just bawling like a lil baby in this place because I'm just too blessed. Blessed doesn't even suffice. I have this honor of being here and yet at moments I give myself guilt because it's like I expect more to be resulted, or do to more or to feel more or to be more compassionate. WHATEVER I need to stop 'feeling' and just be right? I am just loved to death and that love is something I am not giving enough of. I need to love love love just as you, and especially my mom, dad, church, friends are loving me relentlessly. Just as Jesus is loving me relentlessly. I never need to worry nor doubt. I am so sorry if I have. I am only human as well.
To have an email from my mom asking how much flights cost to Jo Berg. To have the church let the money come through them, it's a bit of burden feeling, but I ask and I received what should I feel?
I'm going to look seriously into the flights etc., and at least see if I can't make it up to the north to experience. I will send out another emial today to those I know and see where I could stay or be helped out a bit. Martin's family is up there, Justin works and said I can stay in hotel where he works, same with Nic. Joelle said she has friends in Polokwane. And you know what? Even if I don't make it to a match or see my friends up there, I must rejoice and be glad in Him. Amen!
Ahhh so much going on now. But i have energy when I have God in my mind. When things come out in the end, that even if we're lucky to 'see' why is it then we get the energy. God please provide me with the energy I need for everyday to serve. In each and every way. Remind me to catch up on the night out with MST but still amazing. Yesterday we had meeting out where we will be doing the soccer camps. There's like rocks/rubble trash everywhere, but hey it's open space and great colored community. Ocean View is awesome. 2 of my team mates are from there so I called them up and they're totally excited to help out as well and they completely know the community. I think it will be amazing. Long tough times, but desperately needed for teh community and sharing God's love. Pray for sunshine. I then headed back, trying to rest up, trying ot get a work out in, which never seems to work out well and I'm never eas;y on myself, thinking I can't go out and enjoy a time and night without working out (paranoid I've always had) but I missed opening ceremonies then like I said Suzie showed up too quickly and I tried to go wtih flow with her for her bday. Oh well, I saw the liveliness of Cape Town. Mad fans from all around the world.
All I can say is, this is the first time in history, all africans, all people have come together for something. First time EVER! It's huge with the history behind the country, but I could never be more proud and happy for South Africa. That match against Mexico show cased amazing heart and pride. I loved it! Look out England here come USA!!!!!!!
I received funds today in my account that just threw me over the wall!!! I am in tears here just bawling like a lil baby in this place because I'm just too blessed. Blessed doesn't even suffice. I have this honor of being here and yet at moments I give myself guilt because it's like I expect more to be resulted, or do to more or to feel more or to be more compassionate. WHATEVER I need to stop 'feeling' and just be right? I am just loved to death and that love is something I am not giving enough of. I need to love love love just as you, and especially my mom, dad, church, friends are loving me relentlessly. Just as Jesus is loving me relentlessly. I never need to worry nor doubt. I am so sorry if I have. I am only human as well.
To have an email from my mom asking how much flights cost to Jo Berg. To have the church let the money come through them, it's a bit of burden feeling, but I ask and I received what should I feel?
I'm going to look seriously into the flights etc., and at least see if I can't make it up to the north to experience. I will send out another emial today to those I know and see where I could stay or be helped out a bit. Martin's family is up there, Justin works and said I can stay in hotel where he works, same with Nic. Joelle said she has friends in Polokwane. And you know what? Even if I don't make it to a match or see my friends up there, I must rejoice and be glad in Him. Amen!
Ahhh so much going on now. But i have energy when I have God in my mind. When things come out in the end, that even if we're lucky to 'see' why is it then we get the energy. God please provide me with the energy I need for everyday to serve. In each and every way. Remind me to catch up on the night out with MST but still amazing. Yesterday we had meeting out where we will be doing the soccer camps. There's like rocks/rubble trash everywhere, but hey it's open space and great colored community. Ocean View is awesome. 2 of my team mates are from there so I called them up and they're totally excited to help out as well and they completely know the community. I think it will be amazing. Long tough times, but desperately needed for teh community and sharing God's love. Pray for sunshine. I then headed back, trying to rest up, trying ot get a work out in, which never seems to work out well and I'm never eas;y on myself, thinking I can't go out and enjoy a time and night without working out (paranoid I've always had) but I missed opening ceremonies then like I said Suzie showed up too quickly and I tried to go wtih flow with her for her bday. Oh well, I saw the liveliness of Cape Town. Mad fans from all around the world.
All I can say is, this is the first time in history, all africans, all people have come together for something. First time EVER! It's huge with the history behind the country, but I could never be more proud and happy for South Africa. That match against Mexico show cased amazing heart and pride. I loved it! Look out England here come USA!!!!!!!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Can't believe it!
It's here! 1 day til kick off! What???? I'm here in South Africa! Been freaking out! I was up early this morning and haven't been able to pull myself away from laptop just looking at so much not to miss out on, created pool for World Cup, trying to pull together players for some up coming 7aside and 5 aside matches. Even have some downtown. I haven't been really training well or even with soccer ball but it's ok, it's going ot be ok. I didn't feel well last night so crashed early. I think it's because I haven't been playing much I've been so paranoid as usual about getting fat sitting around so I eat mostly veggies and fruit. I got some protein in me now. But we had that Male Sex Tourism trainig last night in the church just off Long Street. It was incredible. These men, all Americans who have been called and stationed in Thailand doing ministry to men in the red light districts. Just loving. They are here, no clue how, why, what to do, how to do it, but they know God has called them. Even they say, if it's just to change our perspectives. Not to hate the man, but to love him. It's not His desire to just have wild sex and use women, but they're lacking something deeper. It's the heart we're after. It's the change within that we desire. To show and see what God sees the potential in the men. The users. It was totally inspiring. Random group together, all really powered up with the Trafficking etc., but to change our precepts and get us to see what it's really about because we go to the source, (just as i thought with ABSTAIN2010 the cause of the problems) and then you change communities and issues. So go to the men. We go again tonight, which I will be going early downtown with brochures and just check iout all that's going on. THere' suppose to be a parade etc., and so I don't want to miss a thing! We have training from 6-8, we are going to see how we can DO MST, and then head out on the streets for a few hours to actually start surveying men. It was just hilarious to hear the brutal honesty of these 3 men who are here, not sure what to do, not even sure if Long Street is the place, but to be so obedient to come to exactly Cape Town like God asked, is impressive. The 24 prayer house is right there at that Baptist church and it's just already buzzing! So stoked for this all! Tonya was super excited from Justice ACts (who was recently interviewed by ESPN) to hear about the brochures and 10,000 and even that we're in dire need of more beer mats to get distributed to ear businesses!
I don't know if I mentioned it already but there was a church that randomly emailed me and said they had printed a few hundred brochures and already handed them out! I have been freaking out! Like WOW God you're amazing! I just couldn't believe it! So excited to see fruit. It's truly God coming through. This makes me even more excited about the World CUp. However then I read articles like how FIFA has been making sure to show tourists that SA is still high HIV and providing TONS of condoms for tourists. Jeez...
Anyways, been good, other than feeling tired here and there, but it's ok. I helped feed the homeless at the shelter yesterday with Zach's team again and my lovely feeding friends like Kathy were eager to have me and she even bought me this lil soccer ball key chain. Oh she just stole my heart. I was thinking of things to buy her and there this poor woman goes and gets me something for her soccer girl :) WOW!
I had my hair trimmed since it's been months, and then took a nap cause again i felt so tired/sick. But energy should be back!
The Taylor University had showed up while we were at the homeless shelter and it was cool to see those girls again, and they were seeing my Concordia sweatshirt and like WOW what are you doing here? Really cool to connect. Even the coach, after we played them on Tuesday was like I know you're coach Grant Landy real well! He was blown away to see one of his players across the world. Oh I don't know if I had mentioned that I had played them this friendly with my Fish Hoek team against Taylor Uni who's here volunteering for WC with Living Hope. They will be playing 7 aside this weekend I hope to get on, and also doing soccer camps next week. anyways, I had showed up like Amy asked when she set up friendly and I see like our girls/women show up unaware of who we're playing. When they saw these 22 players in uniform come off the bus, they freaked out! WHAT we're not playing them! Lydia our smoking goal keeper was swearing at us asking if we really had to play. I was shocked that we only lost 3-0 with our scraped 12 players. It rained and was freezing and I was laughing at the girls saying, you wouldn't have expected this in Africa eh? :)
I was so annoyed though with our 'coach' just tearing players down again, even me giving horrible advice, and trying ot referee all at one time. I almost walked off the field. Amy was completely torn down and honestly, if I have to play for him again, I think I'm going to have to talk to him.i I"m not here to coach, I"m not here to change his team, I'm here to enjoy myself as well as the girls so I play for them. But it's just terrible how critizing he is!
Anyways, one other thing that's going rough is the funds. I don't know what to do. I don't know who to ask, but I know I don't have much right now. I'm more than blessed by my family consistently pulling me outta th egutter. But it's super hard to be here, and not 'working' and needing to be financially supported. It's like I don't want to have to go to my parents for financial help all my life, and especially now when I felt God asking me to stay for this project. I don't want to doubt I should be here and with finally seeing miracles come through with the project and then some (because remember even if just 1 life changed it's all worth it) but it's hard. It's really hard for me.
Ah I can't speak too much more but it's cold here, but sunny today so pleased about that. Some opening ceremonies and parade today with AIS involved as well hope to catch them. Next week full of long days of soccer camps, yikes!
A short story on entering one of these hostels/lodges with brochures. The sweet lady I forget her name, who comes all the way from the townships to manage lodge, was completely interested in learning more about trafficking, HIV etc. She was so pleased to have brochures and even was saying how it's a great thing to interact with tourists and have conversation starter on issues. She even pushed me to go to their backyard back packers and do the same with house manager there. She and I chatted for about half an hour. Just completely lovely! It was so inspiring and cool to even have the reaction to God about the solution to the issues! Ah thank you!
I love you all,
Andie, congrats on being done!
Kale, I really really miss you!
Mum, lonely? I'm sorry I was going to ring you last night but felt so sick I crashed at 10
Dad, amen on the doc's visit!
Jeff, update me on 5 aside! Tell me we won! :)
I don't know if I mentioned it already but there was a church that randomly emailed me and said they had printed a few hundred brochures and already handed them out! I have been freaking out! Like WOW God you're amazing! I just couldn't believe it! So excited to see fruit. It's truly God coming through. This makes me even more excited about the World CUp. However then I read articles like how FIFA has been making sure to show tourists that SA is still high HIV and providing TONS of condoms for tourists. Jeez...
Anyways, been good, other than feeling tired here and there, but it's ok. I helped feed the homeless at the shelter yesterday with Zach's team again and my lovely feeding friends like Kathy were eager to have me and she even bought me this lil soccer ball key chain. Oh she just stole my heart. I was thinking of things to buy her and there this poor woman goes and gets me something for her soccer girl :) WOW!
I had my hair trimmed since it's been months, and then took a nap cause again i felt so tired/sick. But energy should be back!
The Taylor University had showed up while we were at the homeless shelter and it was cool to see those girls again, and they were seeing my Concordia sweatshirt and like WOW what are you doing here? Really cool to connect. Even the coach, after we played them on Tuesday was like I know you're coach Grant Landy real well! He was blown away to see one of his players across the world. Oh I don't know if I had mentioned that I had played them this friendly with my Fish Hoek team against Taylor Uni who's here volunteering for WC with Living Hope. They will be playing 7 aside this weekend I hope to get on, and also doing soccer camps next week. anyways, I had showed up like Amy asked when she set up friendly and I see like our girls/women show up unaware of who we're playing. When they saw these 22 players in uniform come off the bus, they freaked out! WHAT we're not playing them! Lydia our smoking goal keeper was swearing at us asking if we really had to play. I was shocked that we only lost 3-0 with our scraped 12 players. It rained and was freezing and I was laughing at the girls saying, you wouldn't have expected this in Africa eh? :)
I was so annoyed though with our 'coach' just tearing players down again, even me giving horrible advice, and trying ot referee all at one time. I almost walked off the field. Amy was completely torn down and honestly, if I have to play for him again, I think I'm going to have to talk to him.i I"m not here to coach, I"m not here to change his team, I'm here to enjoy myself as well as the girls so I play for them. But it's just terrible how critizing he is!
Anyways, one other thing that's going rough is the funds. I don't know what to do. I don't know who to ask, but I know I don't have much right now. I'm more than blessed by my family consistently pulling me outta th egutter. But it's super hard to be here, and not 'working' and needing to be financially supported. It's like I don't want to have to go to my parents for financial help all my life, and especially now when I felt God asking me to stay for this project. I don't want to doubt I should be here and with finally seeing miracles come through with the project and then some (because remember even if just 1 life changed it's all worth it) but it's hard. It's really hard for me.
Ah I can't speak too much more but it's cold here, but sunny today so pleased about that. Some opening ceremonies and parade today with AIS involved as well hope to catch them. Next week full of long days of soccer camps, yikes!
A short story on entering one of these hostels/lodges with brochures. The sweet lady I forget her name, who comes all the way from the townships to manage lodge, was completely interested in learning more about trafficking, HIV etc. She was so pleased to have brochures and even was saying how it's a great thing to interact with tourists and have conversation starter on issues. She even pushed me to go to their backyard back packers and do the same with house manager there. She and I chatted for about half an hour. Just completely lovely! It was so inspiring and cool to even have the reaction to God about the solution to the issues! Ah thank you!
I love you all,
Andie, congrats on being done!
Kale, I really really miss you!
Mum, lonely? I'm sorry I was going to ring you last night but felt so sick I crashed at 10
Dad, amen on the doc's visit!
Jeff, update me on 5 aside! Tell me we won! :)
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