Alright, so I am still in the England and I haven't forgotten about you.
I am working at nando's at the moment as a host. It's alright, Im enjoying it for now. Wouldn't want to do it forever, too much loong hours on my poor sore feet.
Other than that, I am really enjoying England, people complain about the weather, but I rather enjoy it. Not sure for how long though. I managed to spend a day in London, walking around which was FUN, definitely want to do it again.
Anyway just a quick update on my part.
Cheers Mate
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Thursday, November 13, 2008
My Very Goodly Flight to England
The long awaited day to leave for England came with a sudden rush. One minute I was waiting and the next I was on my way to England.
I managed to find a direct flight with AIR INDIA and much to my surprise there were mostly Indians on the plane :-0 It was a very interesting flight, I somehow got a seat right in front of the main door of the plane. I tried to rest my feet up on it, but they would not allow it, maybe because if I went any closer I might kick the door open. They said if I did that they would kick me off the plane immediately. I couldn't figure that out.
If you ever fly with Air India, I highly recommend you bring your ipod, it was pretty loud back there, felt like I was in a African taxi. I know its really cliche to say that "I had a kid kicking the back of my chair" but OMG this kid wouldn't stop kicking and singing his Bollywood songs.
Normally on the plane they offer you chicken or beef, but this time it was curry or chicken. Both I tried to avoid as much as possible. It would be horrible if I arrived with a friend Mr. D.
So other than that the flight was good, no turbulence and nothing too scary (other than the food).
Upon arrival, I had to go for an x-ray, which I did try to avoid, but without success obviously. Heathrow is huge and I only saw one Terminal, there are four more terminals there plus another bunch of airports in London. I must be honest so far I really enjoy the country. I haven't spoken to many Brits yet, but from what I can tell it seems pretty awesome. Its a big difference to where we were in the USA with open fields and everything big. Everything is small here, I now understand what they mean! If it helps at all, its like being in Observatory (Cape Town) with an New York City twist.
On the way home we stopped by a South African shop!!! Oh man how cool that was. Got some Wors, pronutro and Biltong. All of which I tried the first day. Tonights curry...
I think I have lost my accent a bit, because the guy who ran the shop, had such a thick thick accent that it made me feel out. I'm going to have to work on that. We will see what's going to happen now with the british influence.
Apparently hell is very bloody and alot of people have been there, because that's what everyone seems to be saying.
"Oh! Bloody Hell!"
I'm really excited about letting everyone know everything happening here, so stay tuned, sign up for updates tell your friends and leave you comments.
Talk to you all very soon.
Jonathan
I managed to find a direct flight with AIR INDIA and much to my surprise there were mostly Indians on the plane :-0 It was a very interesting flight, I somehow got a seat right in front of the main door of the plane. I tried to rest my feet up on it, but they would not allow it, maybe because if I went any closer I might kick the door open. They said if I did that they would kick me off the plane immediately. I couldn't figure that out.
If you ever fly with Air India, I highly recommend you bring your ipod, it was pretty loud back there, felt like I was in a African taxi. I know its really cliche to say that "I had a kid kicking the back of my chair" but OMG this kid wouldn't stop kicking and singing his Bollywood songs.
Normally on the plane they offer you chicken or beef, but this time it was curry or chicken. Both I tried to avoid as much as possible. It would be horrible if I arrived with a friend Mr. D.
So other than that the flight was good, no turbulence and nothing too scary (other than the food).
Upon arrival, I had to go for an x-ray, which I did try to avoid, but without success obviously. Heathrow is huge and I only saw one Terminal, there are four more terminals there plus another bunch of airports in London. I must be honest so far I really enjoy the country. I haven't spoken to many Brits yet, but from what I can tell it seems pretty awesome. Its a big difference to where we were in the USA with open fields and everything big. Everything is small here, I now understand what they mean! If it helps at all, its like being in Observatory (Cape Town) with an New York City twist.
On the way home we stopped by a South African shop!!! Oh man how cool that was. Got some Wors, pronutro and Biltong. All of which I tried the first day. Tonights curry...
I think I have lost my accent a bit, because the guy who ran the shop, had such a thick thick accent that it made me feel out. I'm going to have to work on that. We will see what's going to happen now with the british influence.
Apparently hell is very bloody and alot of people have been there, because that's what everyone seems to be saying.
"Oh! Bloody Hell!"
I'm really excited about letting everyone know everything happening here, so stay tuned, sign up for updates tell your friends and leave you comments.
Talk to you all very soon.
Jonathan
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Jono's World @large
Hi Folks
Just a brief update in Jono's World.
We are currently not living in the same house, but a house still in the middle of nowhere. As I'm sure many of you already know, we are applying for visa to the UK. Slow process. If all goes according to plan, I should be applying next week in New York City.
Things have been a bit slower now that our lively hood is in two suit cases again. We are also having withdrawals from lack of internet. At our house (or where we staying) we receive internet in one tiny corner, if we put the laptop on a couch (sofa). Aaahh. That's right you can say that again.
So at the moment of me writing this, I am sitting in a nearby restaurant called Chili's, drinking coke and bottomless chips with salsa. It really is a nice restaurant, not very busy at the moment,but they have a nice atmosphere and wireless. What more could you need? Cute waitresses?
Last weekend, I was at a fair or feit or whatever you want to call it in your country. So be sure to check out a later post on that. I'll even try stick some pics on.
Cheers
Just a brief update in Jono's World.
We are currently not living in the same house, but a house still in the middle of nowhere. As I'm sure many of you already know, we are applying for visa to the UK. Slow process. If all goes according to plan, I should be applying next week in New York City.
Things have been a bit slower now that our lively hood is in two suit cases again. We are also having withdrawals from lack of internet. At our house (or where we staying) we receive internet in one tiny corner, if we put the laptop on a couch (sofa). Aaahh. That's right you can say that again.
So at the moment of me writing this, I am sitting in a nearby restaurant called Chili's, drinking coke and bottomless chips with salsa. It really is a nice restaurant, not very busy at the moment,but they have a nice atmosphere and wireless. What more could you need? Cute waitresses?
Last weekend, I was at a fair or feit or whatever you want to call it in your country. So be sure to check out a later post on that. I'll even try stick some pics on.
Cheers
Thursday, September 25, 2008
The Story Behind It All
It's been quite awhile since I have given an update on whats happening in the Smit world, that's partially because I don't even know what's happening in the Smit world.
As I'm sure you are well aware by now, we are leaving the USA. Our plan was to leave and go to England. Unfortunately things have taken time to get done and we were not able to get there as soon as we would have liked. However, that is still our destination at the moment.
I am applying for a working-holiday, which allows me to work for 12 months in Uk and vacation for 12 months (like I need that right now). After that I am not sure so don't even ask! The rest of my family are going on a Ancestry Visa with intention to reside. Me, being the big boy I am, can't go as a dependent anymore which is the reason for the different visas.
If you have read my recent article on Chiropractic you may have picked up that I have a keen interest in it. Over the past few weeks I have been researching different ways of getting into college in USA. I did manage to find a Chiropractic college in Atlanta that I would be accepted into. However, finances is the biggest problem. Of all around the world, USA is by far the most expensive country to study.
I need to show 36,000 smackers just for the first year. And that's $$$ for those in South Africa. Most people take a loan for their college, but I can't as I am not an American. At least not on paper ;-)
There are partial scholarships, but I need to be accepted before I apply, whew! what a "situation".
This was all a sudden thing as I never thought about it. But it grew on me rather quickly. If I attended Life University in Atlanta, I could graduate in 4.5 years as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Thats DR. John to you!!! I could do my undergraduate (B.S) in exactly the field I want. This all worked on me wanted to go for it. That and the $45 a session. Sounds good. The average Chiropractor makes $70,000 a year.
Along with this I have been trying to find a scholarship (full) for a Christian Uni, but no great luck so far. I'm not sure how everyone else in the world does it, but this is really a tough process. If all else fails I might just make this my job. Help others find a college.
So currently my plan (not very good one) is to go to England for at least 1 year and work part-time, just to be busy if anything. Oh, and make some pounds. Yippidooodah.
But who knows what could open up before or after then.
So here is the breakdown.
I hope that you find this updating. If not, then it was just good for me to write it down. Now I can get it out my head.
Have a lekker awesomess day folks.
Cheers Jono
As I'm sure you are well aware by now, we are leaving the USA. Our plan was to leave and go to England. Unfortunately things have taken time to get done and we were not able to get there as soon as we would have liked. However, that is still our destination at the moment.
I am applying for a working-holiday, which allows me to work for 12 months in Uk and vacation for 12 months (like I need that right now). After that I am not sure so don't even ask! The rest of my family are going on a Ancestry Visa with intention to reside. Me, being the big boy I am, can't go as a dependent anymore which is the reason for the different visas.
If you have read my recent article on Chiropractic you may have picked up that I have a keen interest in it. Over the past few weeks I have been researching different ways of getting into college in USA. I did manage to find a Chiropractic college in Atlanta that I would be accepted into. However, finances is the biggest problem. Of all around the world, USA is by far the most expensive country to study.
I need to show 36,000 smackers just for the first year. And that's $$$ for those in South Africa. Most people take a loan for their college, but I can't as I am not an American. At least not on paper ;-)
There are partial scholarships, but I need to be accepted before I apply, whew! what a "situation".
This was all a sudden thing as I never thought about it. But it grew on me rather quickly. If I attended Life University in Atlanta, I could graduate in 4.5 years as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Thats DR. John to you!!! I could do my undergraduate (B.S) in exactly the field I want. This all worked on me wanted to go for it. That and the $45 a session. Sounds good. The average Chiropractor makes $70,000 a year.
Along with this I have been trying to find a scholarship (full) for a Christian Uni, but no great luck so far. I'm not sure how everyone else in the world does it, but this is really a tough process. If all else fails I might just make this my job. Help others find a college.
So currently my plan (not very good one) is to go to England for at least 1 year and work part-time, just to be busy if anything. Oh, and make some pounds. Yippidooodah.
But who knows what could open up before or after then.
So here is the breakdown.
- Go to Life University.(usa)
- Go to Christian College. (usa)
- Work England for 2 years (Eng)
- Go back to Sa (Nooo..)
I hope that you find this updating. If not, then it was just good for me to write it down. Now I can get it out my head.
Have a lekker awesomess day folks.
Cheers Jono
Sunday, September 21, 2008
The Real Chiropractor
Before we start with anything, if you have any personal thoughts about Chiropractic care that has been formed by rumors or past experiences you should remove that train of thought, before you start reading the rest of this article.
For the past couple of months we have been experiencing chiropractic care. However, this is not your regular chiropractor that you would go visit if you have pain. Our chiropractor, Dr. John Madeira, has brought a new train of thought to what I thought being a chiropractor was about.
To explain in short, Dr. John is a wellness chiropractor. These chiropractors believe in a general well being of health and that the spinal column needs to be functioning at it's best that your body is able to heal itself. When I went for my x-rays to see how BAD my spine actually is, I was totally shell shocked. I think I have 3 vertebrae in the correct position. There's no wonder I'm not as good looking as I should be.
By going for regular adjustments, your spine is manipulated back into a position that it should be in. Sounds bad? Well its absolutely not. I recently learned that the nervous system that runs through your spine, can lose its full usage, due to subluxations. It works like a dimmer on a light, the spine out of whack, can cause your brain to not be able to fully send what it needs.
I have been seeing a chiropractor for a few weeks now and I can strongly tell a difference. I hardly have allergy problems and my general health is doing great.
So, I just wanted to let you know that the treatment, although expensive at times, is definitly worth the money. Preventative is better than a cure.
For the past couple of months we have been experiencing chiropractic care. However, this is not your regular chiropractor that you would go visit if you have pain. Our chiropractor, Dr. John Madeira, has brought a new train of thought to what I thought being a chiropractor was about.
To explain in short, Dr. John is a wellness chiropractor. These chiropractors believe in a general well being of health and that the spinal column needs to be functioning at it's best that your body is able to heal itself. When I went for my x-rays to see how BAD my spine actually is, I was totally shell shocked. I think I have 3 vertebrae in the correct position. There's no wonder I'm not as good looking as I should be.
By going for regular adjustments, your spine is manipulated back into a position that it should be in. Sounds bad? Well its absolutely not. I recently learned that the nervous system that runs through your spine, can lose its full usage, due to subluxations. It works like a dimmer on a light, the spine out of whack, can cause your brain to not be able to fully send what it needs.
I have been seeing a chiropractor for a few weeks now and I can strongly tell a difference. I hardly have allergy problems and my general health is doing great.
So, I just wanted to let you know that the treatment, although expensive at times, is definitly worth the money. Preventative is better than a cure.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
You Know your Country is Bad When...
...your very own president gets robbed. That's right robbed, the president of South Africa was robbed recently. I couldn't actually believe it when I read it, but its true. It seems that the media have sort of kept it on the DL, well at least that I've seen. There hasn't been to much hype about it, maybe it's different in SA?
I did find one article which you can read here.
Apparently they broke into his property in Pretoria, the capitol city, and stole R20-30,ooo of aluminion off the roof. They only find out two days later, Yikes!
This just shows you how craze South Africa is, our own president is robbed. It wouldn't surprise me if it was an inside job. But maybe now they will wake-up and realize the situation at hand.
If the president isn't even protected, how must everyone else feel. Double Yikes.
Now let's turn our attention to the race in America, wow, its really getting interesting. I didn't realize how different the politics were in the different countries. The race for the next president is on and almost over actually. November 5th is the big day.
Keep checking back for my next post on Politics (because everyone is entitled to my biased opinion;-)
I did find one article which you can read here.
Apparently they broke into his property in Pretoria, the capitol city, and stole R20-30,ooo of aluminion off the roof. They only find out two days later, Yikes!
This just shows you how craze South Africa is, our own president is robbed. It wouldn't surprise me if it was an inside job. But maybe now they will wake-up and realize the situation at hand.
If the president isn't even protected, how must everyone else feel. Double Yikes.
Now let's turn our attention to the race in America, wow, its really getting interesting. I didn't realize how different the politics were in the different countries. The race for the next president is on and almost over actually. November 5th is the big day.
Keep checking back for my next post on Politics (because everyone is entitled to my biased opinion;-)
Sunday, September 7, 2008
My High School Football Experience
Friday night is high school football night, but most of you probably already knew that. Saturday is college and Sunday, well apparently that's the holy day. The NFL.
So here I am Friday night, watching some boys in tights and big heads (should have gone to ballet rather) try to ruff each other up.
I went, well because I got sucked into it and I figured I could put it down as "now I can say I've been there."
We arrive 30 minutes before kick-off and the place is totally packed out. Now I'm not talking about some big or great team, they neither, this is a little towns high-school and the place is packed. I recently heard that at a college game, there were no fewer than 90,000 fans. That is alot of people.
After finding a parking far away, we buy our tickets, four smackers for me, and found our seats in between all the youngsters and oldies. Much to my surprise there weren't many people my age. Go figure.
The Spartans (our team), were able to come back for a brief moment only to be owned in the end by a beastly running quarterback. He made the game somewhat bearable for me. I thought it was tuff watching a game on tv with highlights of the good stuff. Try high school; you don't even get to appreciate the rare good stuff.
The cheerleaders weren't so hot (good ;-)) either. Definitely not what they show in the movies!!!
I did, however, grow in appreciation for the band, they weren't great but sure did a better job than me. Probably the most entertaining part of the eve. Oh wait, there was that one time when...mmm
Those fries (chips) were so goood. At least on an empty stomach they were.
Overall it was a pretty good evening, I wouldn't choose to do it again for fun, but at least I can say I went to a footsie game, ah I mean football game.
Obviously you can tell that I'm not a big football fan, sorry still got to get used to it. Super bowl is fun though. GO SPRINGBOKS!
So here I am Friday night, watching some boys in tights and big heads (should have gone to ballet rather) try to ruff each other up.
I went, well because I got sucked into it and I figured I could put it down as "now I can say I've been there."
We arrive 30 minutes before kick-off and the place is totally packed out. Now I'm not talking about some big or great team, they neither, this is a little towns high-school and the place is packed. I recently heard that at a college game, there were no fewer than 90,000 fans. That is alot of people.
After finding a parking far away, we buy our tickets, four smackers for me, and found our seats in between all the youngsters and oldies. Much to my surprise there weren't many people my age. Go figure.
The Spartans (our team), were able to come back for a brief moment only to be owned in the end by a beastly running quarterback. He made the game somewhat bearable for me. I thought it was tuff watching a game on tv with highlights of the good stuff. Try high school; you don't even get to appreciate the rare good stuff.
The cheerleaders weren't so hot (good ;-)) either. Definitely not what they show in the movies!!!
I did, however, grow in appreciation for the band, they weren't great but sure did a better job than me. Probably the most entertaining part of the eve. Oh wait, there was that one time when...mmm
Those fries (chips) were so goood. At least on an empty stomach they were.
Overall it was a pretty good evening, I wouldn't choose to do it again for fun, but at least I can say I went to a footsie game, ah I mean football game.
Obviously you can tell that I'm not a big football fan, sorry still got to get used to it. Super bowl is fun though. GO SPRINGBOKS!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Meet The Amish
It's funny how so many different people believe so many different things. Some good and others well, let's just leave it at that.
Before I met some friends in South Africa, that were from Lancaster, I had never heard of the Amish.
Who are they?
What are they?
Why do they think the way they do?
For those of you who don't know, Amish is a religion, a culture and a way of life that is very far from everyone else.
What they do not believe?
The Amish do not believe in the progression of technology, they are still living according to way back when.
They drive around in buggies with steel wheels (rubber is part of technology) pulled by a cart horse. It's very funny for someone not from Lancaster county to see them. I can only imagine how they must feel with all the stares they get.
I just thought I'd let you know what we see every time we leave our house. Um, nevermind I don't even need to leave to see them fly past at deathly slow speeds up the hill.
Jono
Monday, August 18, 2008
Who are the Greatest Athletes Ever
Since all the magic of the Olympics is happening with Phelps breaking World Records and what else, I thought I should at least say something about it. After all it will probably be talked about for generations after us. We are living in the time of the greatest athletes that have walked on the face of the earth.
A Jamaican guy, Bolt, just broke the world record for 100m sprint. He did this with such ease, that he was celebrating 15m before the finish line. Who can say they have seen that before? Not me.
Here are some of the athletes that I think have changed the face of sport as we have known it and stepped in up a level, with an unanswered reply.
Michael Phelps-Swimming-Usa
This is just an obvious one. It's all over the news, The Greatest Olympian Ever. You could debate and say that it's easier to win 8 Golds in swimming than any other event. But then answer this. How come no other swimmer is doing it?
Winning 8 Golds-8 Olympic records- 7 world records-and most Golds won at a single Olympics ever. This is no small achievement and I have a feeling it might take awhile to beat that, unless he does it next Olympics. You can read my Ezine Article on Phelps, here.
Tiger Woods-Golf-Usa
There is just no better golfer in my opinion. He plays where he wants, he wins where he wants and he earns what he wants. Can you have more control in the sporting world than that. I read the other day that he is now the highest paid sports man ever. Imagine that!
Lance Armstrong-Cycling-Usa
Winning one of the toughest race so many times in a row. Folks that's not normal, thats machine like. His heart rate proves it. It's way way way below anyone that I know. The other thing about Lance is the way he came back after cancer. It was amazing to see his passion and purpose to live.
Michael Jordan-Basketball-Usa
He was good, so true , but what I like about him is the way he projected himself to the world. I am sure there are basketball players better than him, but none are remembered quite like him. Ever thought about that? He was brilliant on and off the field. The way he made people remember him shows me how much character he had/has.
Michael Schumacher-Formula Racing-Germany
In my opinion the greatest F1 racer ever. He turned the Ferrari F1 team around, leading them to wins over and over again. I watched one race where he was last, a lap behind, and he just came back amazingly to win. His ability to read the sport and know what to do was astonishing.
Francois Pienaar/John Smit-Rugby-South Africa
These two you might not know, but they were/are captains of the South African Rugby team. The thing I like about these two is that they have tremendous leadership ability. They both lead South Africa to the rugby world cup.
Ronaldinho-Soccer-Brazil
This man no matter when you see him is always smiling. His sincere love for the game is what takes him the distance. Oh and a ton of skill.
We can make the perfect athlete with a combination of:
Phelps hard work, raw talent and smashing records.
Tiger Woods money.
Lance Armstrong's determination
Michael Jordan's personal relations
Michael Schumacher's ability to read situations and know what to do.
Francois and John's leadership
Ronaldinho's attitude and love for sport.
And there you have it the perfect athlete.
Or I could have just said: "ME"
;-)
A Jamaican guy, Bolt, just broke the world record for 100m sprint. He did this with such ease, that he was celebrating 15m before the finish line. Who can say they have seen that before? Not me.
Here are some of the athletes that I think have changed the face of sport as we have known it and stepped in up a level, with an unanswered reply.
Michael Phelps-Swimming-Usa
This is just an obvious one. It's all over the news, The Greatest Olympian Ever. You could debate and say that it's easier to win 8 Golds in swimming than any other event. But then answer this. How come no other swimmer is doing it?
Winning 8 Golds-8 Olympic records- 7 world records-and most Golds won at a single Olympics ever. This is no small achievement and I have a feeling it might take awhile to beat that, unless he does it next Olympics. You can read my Ezine Article on Phelps, here.
Tiger Woods-Golf-Usa
There is just no better golfer in my opinion. He plays where he wants, he wins where he wants and he earns what he wants. Can you have more control in the sporting world than that. I read the other day that he is now the highest paid sports man ever. Imagine that!
Lance Armstrong-Cycling-Usa
Winning one of the toughest race so many times in a row. Folks that's not normal, thats machine like. His heart rate proves it. It's way way way below anyone that I know. The other thing about Lance is the way he came back after cancer. It was amazing to see his passion and purpose to live.
Michael Jordan-Basketball-Usa
He was good, so true , but what I like about him is the way he projected himself to the world. I am sure there are basketball players better than him, but none are remembered quite like him. Ever thought about that? He was brilliant on and off the field. The way he made people remember him shows me how much character he had/has.
Michael Schumacher-Formula Racing-Germany
In my opinion the greatest F1 racer ever. He turned the Ferrari F1 team around, leading them to wins over and over again. I watched one race where he was last, a lap behind, and he just came back amazingly to win. His ability to read the sport and know what to do was astonishing.
Francois Pienaar/John Smit-Rugby-South Africa
These two you might not know, but they were/are captains of the South African Rugby team. The thing I like about these two is that they have tremendous leadership ability. They both lead South Africa to the rugby world cup.
Ronaldinho-Soccer-Brazil
This man no matter when you see him is always smiling. His sincere love for the game is what takes him the distance. Oh and a ton of skill.
We can make the perfect athlete with a combination of:
Phelps hard work, raw talent and smashing records.
Tiger Woods money.
Lance Armstrong's determination
Michael Jordan's personal relations
Michael Schumacher's ability to read situations and know what to do.
Francois and John's leadership
Ronaldinho's attitude and love for sport.
And there you have it the perfect athlete.
Or I could have just said: "ME"
;-)
Friday, August 15, 2008
Your Advice Counts
As I mentioned in my earlier post, 24 hours, you will see how quickly things can change. As of right now, I think our plan has changed a numerous times. I actually don't even know how many times. We need to make some decisions on which country we going to, when and how, since we leaving the USA.
By just speaking to one person we learn something new and find something else that we need to do. I just want to emphasize on this point quickly. Seeking the wisdom of many or few. This is such a vast topic, but I just want to briefly point out some things.
Is it better to seek advice from many or few?
I think this is solely dependent on what it is for. In some situations it would be self-suicide to ask everyone you know. Your head will be in a dismal, much like mine is now. The thing to understand is that everyone has an opinion about everything. Yes, that includes me and you. There is nothing wrong with our opinion, but in recent discovery your little opinion affects someone else. It doesn't just end by you in influences those around you.
I would "think" that in my case we need to get as much knowledge about the situation as possible. Hence asking everyone. But this causes confusion and changing of plans in 24 hours. Also by talking to many people, they become aware of the situation and help can be given.
Just something to think about. It sure was for me. I appreciate people's opinions and I know it helps me. Sometimes by seeking help of others, you are rewarded with something. Whether it be advice, personal help, open doors or them seeing something you didn't, it just stresses the point that we need people, friends and family.
By just speaking to one person we learn something new and find something else that we need to do. I just want to emphasize on this point quickly. Seeking the wisdom of many or few. This is such a vast topic, but I just want to briefly point out some things.
Is it better to seek advice from many or few?
I think this is solely dependent on what it is for. In some situations it would be self-suicide to ask everyone you know. Your head will be in a dismal, much like mine is now. The thing to understand is that everyone has an opinion about everything. Yes, that includes me and you. There is nothing wrong with our opinion, but in recent discovery your little opinion affects someone else. It doesn't just end by you in influences those around you.
I would "think" that in my case we need to get as much knowledge about the situation as possible. Hence asking everyone. But this causes confusion and changing of plans in 24 hours. Also by talking to many people, they become aware of the situation and help can be given.
Just something to think about. It sure was for me. I appreciate people's opinions and I know it helps me. Sometimes by seeking help of others, you are rewarded with something. Whether it be advice, personal help, open doors or them seeing something you didn't, it just stresses the point that we need people, friends and family.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
A Make-Over
Welcome to the new jonathansmit.blogspot.com blog. If you are a regular reader and reading this in your email, then make your way over to the actual site. You will have noticed that it has had a drastic make-over. I think it looks much better than it did, but it's not what I think but what you think?
I'm going to be advertising my blog on a much bigger scale now and increase my readership.Over the past few months it has grown so much already and a special thanks to everyone for their support. I really hope you keep coming back to see what's happening ;)
You are welcome to tell your friends and family about it and advertise it for me if you feel so inclined. None of this would be possible if I didn't have your support.
Please don't forget to sign up to receive the latest posts right in your email, that way you don't have to keep checking back. I know you very busy and wouldn't want to waste your time. Just enter your email in the box on the right.
Have a super cool day
Cheers Jonathan
I'm going to be advertising my blog on a much bigger scale now and increase my readership.Over the past few months it has grown so much already and a special thanks to everyone for their support. I really hope you keep coming back to see what's happening ;)
You are welcome to tell your friends and family about it and advertise it for me if you feel so inclined. None of this would be possible if I didn't have your support.
Please don't forget to sign up to receive the latest posts right in your email, that way you don't have to keep checking back. I know you very busy and wouldn't want to waste your time. Just enter your email in the box on the right.
Have a super cool day
Cheers Jonathan
Monday, August 11, 2008
Hippy Happy Birfday
Before you ask if it felt any different waking up to be 2o, let me answer it.
It was totally totally different, I could feel like 20, not 19 anymore. (Sarcasm)
Nah! I pretty much feel the same OLD same Old. Nothing to much new, It was however one of the best birthdays I've had, for obvious reasons.
I of coarse had to use my free Shady Maple birthday ticket, so I went for breakfast with my bro and his friend. Ate myself into 20. For those who don't know, Shady Maple is the biggest smorgasbord or buffet you will ever see. There is so much food is scary, literally. There must have been at least 500-600 people there that day.
I then spoke to one of my best friends on skype (thanks bro) for a bit and my grandparents who waited up late to talk to me. Thanks to them, but I doubt they read my blog (not sure if they even have email, but I love them anyway)
RED LOBSTER- name ring a bell? Jup that was dinner, very good I must say. Although I don't like the fact that most seafood places in the USA don't do calamari, which is very upsetting as I love it. Here it's prawns this and prawns that, maybe some crab or fish, but prawns apparently is the thing. So we did prawns.
I'll have to post some pics for you guys to check out, just need to put it on the computer still.
Update on applying for UK holiday working visa for me:
Went to the DR today for physical check-up and I'm good health. And the lawyer said I can apply from the usa, which is conformation. Now just a few more things to get to gether and I can go apply.
Thanks for your prayers they seem to be working.
p.s thanks for those who wished me on facebook. Grrr to those who didn't
Cheers
Jonathan, Jon, Jono or whatever else they call me.
It was totally totally different, I could feel like 20, not 19 anymore. (Sarcasm)
Nah! I pretty much feel the same OLD same Old. Nothing to much new, It was however one of the best birthdays I've had, for obvious reasons.
I of coarse had to use my free Shady Maple birthday ticket, so I went for breakfast with my bro and his friend. Ate myself into 20. For those who don't know, Shady Maple is the biggest smorgasbord or buffet you will ever see. There is so much food is scary, literally. There must have been at least 500-600 people there that day.
I then spoke to one of my best friends on skype (thanks bro) for a bit and my grandparents who waited up late to talk to me. Thanks to them, but I doubt they read my blog (not sure if they even have email, but I love them anyway)
RED LOBSTER- name ring a bell? Jup that was dinner, very good I must say. Although I don't like the fact that most seafood places in the USA don't do calamari, which is very upsetting as I love it. Here it's prawns this and prawns that, maybe some crab or fish, but prawns apparently is the thing. So we did prawns.
I'll have to post some pics for you guys to check out, just need to put it on the computer still.
Update on applying for UK holiday working visa for me:
Went to the DR today for physical check-up and I'm good health. And the lawyer said I can apply from the usa, which is conformation. Now just a few more things to get to gether and I can go apply.
Thanks for your prayers they seem to be working.
p.s thanks for those who wished me on facebook. Grrr to those who didn't
Cheers
Jonathan, Jon, Jono or whatever else they call me.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
A Time to Leave America
It feels like its been at least 2 weeks since you last heard from me, very bad on my part. I'm going to have to pick this up. The past 2-3 weeks has been the most intense, life-altering, mind boggling and overwhelming time of my life.
To give you an update if you don't already know:
Monday two weeks ago, we spoke to a lawyer about our visa situation in the USA. We were and are under a ministry that have/is closing down, therefore we need to change our visa to another organization. In order to do so we need to leave the USA to apply. The only problem is that we don't have any sponsors here to come back. Not to many organizations are willing to commit to it.
So in a long story cut relatively short, we have received, made and exchanged phone calls with lawyers and people. It's surprising we haven't spoken to the president yet! Our current plan (it changes daily) is to go straight to the UK, since we sort of want to avoid living the rest of our lives in South Africa. Please don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE the country, but if we had to go back, we would probably end up in no mans land. There is nothing to offer us there at the moment. As much as you think it would be fun, I am not working at mugg&bean. My last try at that lasted 2 days, before I quit
My great- grandfather was born in England, so my dad and the rest of the family can get in on Ancestry visa. I, however am too old. Turned 20 yesterday. Whoopi! I am going to apply for a 2 year working holiday visa for the UK. The only problem with this is that both visas must be applied for in the next 2 months. The UK is changing its laws and this is our last opportunity to get in.
Alot of things are still in the air though, nothing is for sure, which is not how I like to work, but hey what can you do. I'm hopefully going to apply in the next week or two then I'll be on my way, should I be accepted. It's really amazing how God works, either He is opening one door and closing another. Or we are way off track, lets hope its the first one.
I'm sure this is news to some of you and some not. It most definitely was to us. I think my last post would make a bit more sense now. Good news is I would be closer to my friends in Holland.
If you guys have any questions I'll try to answer. Keep us in your prayers as this is pretty stressful times. Normally people plan for years what we trying to accomplish in 1 month.
To give you an update if you don't already know:
Monday two weeks ago, we spoke to a lawyer about our visa situation in the USA. We were and are under a ministry that have/is closing down, therefore we need to change our visa to another organization. In order to do so we need to leave the USA to apply. The only problem is that we don't have any sponsors here to come back. Not to many organizations are willing to commit to it.
So in a long story cut relatively short, we have received, made and exchanged phone calls with lawyers and people. It's surprising we haven't spoken to the president yet! Our current plan (it changes daily) is to go straight to the UK, since we sort of want to avoid living the rest of our lives in South Africa. Please don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE the country, but if we had to go back, we would probably end up in no mans land. There is nothing to offer us there at the moment. As much as you think it would be fun, I am not working at mugg&bean. My last try at that lasted 2 days, before I quit
My great- grandfather was born in England, so my dad and the rest of the family can get in on Ancestry visa. I, however am too old. Turned 20 yesterday. Whoopi! I am going to apply for a 2 year working holiday visa for the UK. The only problem with this is that both visas must be applied for in the next 2 months. The UK is changing its laws and this is our last opportunity to get in.
Alot of things are still in the air though, nothing is for sure, which is not how I like to work, but hey what can you do. I'm hopefully going to apply in the next week or two then I'll be on my way, should I be accepted. It's really amazing how God works, either He is opening one door and closing another. Or we are way off track, lets hope its the first one.
I'm sure this is news to some of you and some not. It most definitely was to us. I think my last post would make a bit more sense now. Good news is I would be closer to my friends in Holland.
If you guys have any questions I'll try to answer. Keep us in your prayers as this is pretty stressful times. Normally people plan for years what we trying to accomplish in 1 month.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
24 Hours
If we could have 10 bucks for every time our life has changed in 24 hours, we would be very rich people. I'm sure it's the same for you too. One moment you know what's happening, know where you are and know where you are headed. Suddenly, one phone call or one meeting can change your life forever.
So why do we plan or think ahead? I asked myself this quite a bit. Especially since I'm someone who likes to know what's happening in my life (something I haven't known for awhile). I like to be sure of where I am and what I'm going to be doing. We plan for life A; one phone call and you faced with option B. BAM! Life changes.
Sometimes we don't know what B is, while we in A so how can we plan for it. The sad fact is that we can't. It's just not possible to know what we will be faced with everyday of our lives. Every decision we make today could effect the tomorrow, which is pretty scary to think of it.
I think we plan because if we didn't we would be stagnant and dead. By planning and thinking of the future it drives us on to something more. Fact is we may not achieve what we want, the way we want it. Maybe a different way, maybe God's way.
I tend to sometimes, okay, most of the time, start blaming in these situation. Of coarse it always is someone's fault, but maybe that's the way God worked it for us. He knows the future and knows that maybe we need a life change, probably we do. However, the blame is still there, I guess that's what comes from those who are being used by God. Something to think about, hey.
Hope you have a great day folks. Keep us in prayers.
Jono
So why do we plan or think ahead? I asked myself this quite a bit. Especially since I'm someone who likes to know what's happening in my life (something I haven't known for awhile). I like to be sure of where I am and what I'm going to be doing. We plan for life A; one phone call and you faced with option B. BAM! Life changes.
Sometimes we don't know what B is, while we in A so how can we plan for it. The sad fact is that we can't. It's just not possible to know what we will be faced with everyday of our lives. Every decision we make today could effect the tomorrow, which is pretty scary to think of it.
I think we plan because if we didn't we would be stagnant and dead. By planning and thinking of the future it drives us on to something more. Fact is we may not achieve what we want, the way we want it. Maybe a different way, maybe God's way.
I tend to sometimes, okay, most of the time, start blaming in these situation. Of coarse it always is someone's fault, but maybe that's the way God worked it for us. He knows the future and knows that maybe we need a life change, probably we do. However, the blame is still there, I guess that's what comes from those who are being used by God. Something to think about, hey.
Hope you have a great day folks. Keep us in prayers.
Jono
Monday, July 28, 2008
Family Forever
Hey Friends and Family
How are you all doing? I sometimes feel like this is a one way conversation, since I'm always (okay...should be always) writing, but I never know how my readers are doing? So let me know in the comments.
Since I'm mentioning family, I just want to let my family members back in South Africa know that I really really miss them. I think this is one of the toughest things about moving to a new country. There is no family. Now I know you saying you have your immediate family there, which I'm grateful for, but sometimes you need to see other family.
The thing about your family is that they will love you all the time, people that you can just be with. They say you can't choose your family, but you can choose your friends. I would choose the family I have any day. I miss you guys stacks.
For the rest of my readers. Check out my site at www.betterrelationshipbuilder.com and I'll be sure to write soon on what's happening in the Craze world of uhm... wherever I am.
How are you all doing? I sometimes feel like this is a one way conversation, since I'm always (okay...should be always) writing, but I never know how my readers are doing? So let me know in the comments.
Since I'm mentioning family, I just want to let my family members back in South Africa know that I really really miss them. I think this is one of the toughest things about moving to a new country. There is no family. Now I know you saying you have your immediate family there, which I'm grateful for, but sometimes you need to see other family.
The thing about your family is that they will love you all the time, people that you can just be with. They say you can't choose your family, but you can choose your friends. I would choose the family I have any day. I miss you guys stacks.
For the rest of my readers. Check out my site at www.betterrelationshipbuilder.com and I'll be sure to write soon on what's happening in the Craze world of uhm... wherever I am.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Batman! A Smashing Hit.
Hey hey everyone.
Hope you had a great weekend? I did, it's been really warm the past few days, which has been very nice. We have a portable pool that has a leak so it's about a foot deep(30cm) in the deep end. I spent a good part of the day just laying in it enjoying the "scenery." In case you don't understand what I mean by scenery, I mean cows on one side and corn fields on the other, which by the way are above my head now. Just so you know!
Anyway on Friday I went to the movies with some friends. Batman. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it as a brilliant movie. Dark Night set a record overtaking Spider-Man for highest box office in opening weekend, making 155.34 Million. You can read more here.
Dark Night was a intense, on the edge nail-biting movie with plenty twists, that I'm sure the guys will enjoy. Yet there is no blood (at least not shown anyway). As Heath Ledgers last movie I would say he went off with a bang. He made Batman's role look amateur.
On another note, our ministry website is doing very well, averaging 15-20 hits a day. You can check it out here.
Also you can check out my our newest blog on relationship compatibility.
Hope you had a great weekend? I did, it's been really warm the past few days, which has been very nice. We have a portable pool that has a leak so it's about a foot deep(30cm) in the deep end. I spent a good part of the day just laying in it enjoying the "scenery." In case you don't understand what I mean by scenery, I mean cows on one side and corn fields on the other, which by the way are above my head now. Just so you know!
Anyway on Friday I went to the movies with some friends. Batman. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it as a brilliant movie. Dark Night set a record overtaking Spider-Man for highest box office in opening weekend, making 155.34 Million. You can read more here.
Dark Night was a intense, on the edge nail-biting movie with plenty twists, that I'm sure the guys will enjoy. Yet there is no blood (at least not shown anyway). As Heath Ledgers last movie I would say he went off with a bang. He made Batman's role look amateur.
On another note, our ministry website is doing very well, averaging 15-20 hits a day. You can check it out here.
Also you can check out my our newest blog on relationship compatibility.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Tick Tick... Time Flies By, But It's Not The Only Thing.
July 17! Wow, if you don't keep track of the days, you get a shock when you do. Ever since I've been in America, the days seem to run into each other. The week feels like weekend, the weekend feels like holiday. It's been interesting. This is mainly because I haven't had any set schedule to keep.
At times I like this and other times it's a real test. However the past few months have been very good, especially the past 2 weeks. I've been pretty busy (which is why you haven't heard from me). As you know I have been studying the web, focusing on Internet marketing and blogging.
As of know I have 4 small personal blogs, some of which has brought in a little bit of money, and I'm designing 3 or 4 big ones for different people. This takes alot of time. So my days are pretty much full at the moment. The latest weblog is about Relationships, I am working on this one with my dad and will be available for you to see soon.
Now! That's for time, BUT we have something else that has been flying by. Sent by Satan himself to torment us-FLIES. That's right hundreds of them buzzing around the house. We were warned of this, but honestly I didn't expect it to be quite this bad.
At times I like this and other times it's a real test. However the past few months have been very good, especially the past 2 weeks. I've been pretty busy (which is why you haven't heard from me). As you know I have been studying the web, focusing on Internet marketing and blogging.
As of know I have 4 small personal blogs, some of which has brought in a little bit of money, and I'm designing 3 or 4 big ones for different people. This takes alot of time. So my days are pretty much full at the moment. The latest weblog is about Relationships, I am working on this one with my dad and will be available for you to see soon.
Now! That's for time, BUT we have something else that has been flying by. Sent by Satan himself to torment us-FLIES. That's right hundreds of them buzzing around the house. We were warned of this, but honestly I didn't expect it to be quite this bad.
- Early risers:They wake me up at 5am
- No respect: Mate right in front of everyone!
- Share: They think we share meals and drinks
I say you can't even curse them, because by the time thats done they dead and you then have to deal with their children. Every now and again, someone will get very irritated, bring out the can and fumigate the house, much to Moms disagreement.
Nonetheless live goes on in Lancaster County, with the cows, corn and now flies.
Cheers Jonathan
Thursday, July 10, 2008
South African Slang
It feels like it's been awhile since I last posted, so I thought I'd give you a really interesting funny post. Not that my other ones aren't... but this one is a special comparison between America and South Africa.
Since I've been in the States I've been asked a number of times "What are some of the slang words you use in South Africa?" For those of you living in South Africa you would quickly be able to answer that, because you use the words everyday. BUT for me when I'm alone and someone asks, I can't think of any! The ones that I do managed to stumble out my mouth are literally impossible to explain.
For those Americans who have asked and not got a answer here are a bunch.
For the South Africans, be proud of your slang, it totally rocks.
Ag man!- This is used when you frustrated or dissappointed in something. The translation would be Oh man.
Aweh!- No English translation, but the closest thing would be Oh Yeah.
Bokkie- Refering to someone you love, like sweetheart.
Bru- Like bro, a male friend.
Dinges- Something, whatchamacallit, thingymabob.
Dof- Stupid
Dorpie- Small Town, we live in a very very very small dorpie now!
Eina!- Ouch
Ja. - Yes
Laaitie- A younger person
Mielie- Corn
Moegoe- This is referred to alot by my family as no one knows what it means here. Someone who is being stupid, irritating, coward or weakling.
Naartjie- Tangerine, also another name for moegoe.
Skrik- to get a fright
Vrot- rotten, like a fruit.
Lekker- This is one of my favourite/favorite. It can be used in many places.
If you still in SA and can think of some that I haven't mentioned, please feel free to let me know in the comments. I need to be reminded. Also you can sign-up to receive notices of when I make a post.
Cheers, have a awesome day!
Jonathan
Since I've been in the States I've been asked a number of times "What are some of the slang words you use in South Africa?" For those of you living in South Africa you would quickly be able to answer that, because you use the words everyday. BUT for me when I'm alone and someone asks, I can't think of any! The ones that I do managed to stumble out my mouth are literally impossible to explain.
For those Americans who have asked and not got a answer here are a bunch.
For the South Africans, be proud of your slang, it totally rocks.
Ag man!- This is used when you frustrated or dissappointed in something. The translation would be Oh man.
Aweh!- No English translation, but the closest thing would be Oh Yeah.
Bokkie- Refering to someone you love, like sweetheart.
Bru- Like bro, a male friend.
Dinges- Something, whatchamacallit, thingymabob.
Dof- Stupid
Dorpie- Small Town, we live in a very very very small dorpie now!
Eina!- Ouch
Ja. - Yes
Laaitie- A younger person
Mielie- Corn
Moegoe- This is referred to alot by my family as no one knows what it means here. Someone who is being stupid, irritating, coward or weakling.
Naartjie- Tangerine, also another name for moegoe.
Skrik- to get a fright
Vrot- rotten, like a fruit.
Lekker- This is one of my favourite/favorite. It can be used in many places.
- This food is lekker.
- The weather is lekker.
- That's a lekker blog.
- That was a lekker game.
- I'm lekker full.
- Rugby is lekker.
I think you get the drift.
Braai- a real barbeque
For more South African slang click here. Most of these words are Afrikaans which is one of South Africas official languages. We have 11! Some others are from Xhosa, and yes this is the language with the click.
If you still in SA and can think of some that I haven't mentioned, please feel free to let me know in the comments. I need to be reminded. Also you can sign-up to receive notices of when I make a post.
Cheers, have a awesome day!
Jonathan
Thursday, July 3, 2008
July 4th
Well Well, Can you believe it? We are in July already. I've now been in PA over 5 months, which seems actually like 5 days. This past year has really gone very fast. As I'm sure you know tomorrow is July 4th, so congratulations to all the Americans (you do congratulate don't you?) including those that aren't in the states!
Hopefully I'll go somewhere to see some fireworks, anyone know a good spot? Last year I was in Vermont and it rained so no fireworks, Im hoping it doesn't rain again.
I thought I'd just leave you with some pics off the last few weeks. BTW, thanks for all your comments and congratulations on me being here one year. You guys make it worth hanging around.
(Above)Wesley playing during praise and worship at feet on the street.
(Below) Worship during our conference.
Sitting around a dying fire at camp
Have a great day!
Cheers
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Youth On Fire!
Hi All
I'm back after an amazing week at a youth camp. I was a group leader of a few youth from feet on the street in Reading. The boot-camp took place in Reading, Pa and was focused on evangelism. We did outreaches into Reading everyday, as well as work projects cleaning up the area. If you drive through Reading in the next few days, chances are you will see something we painted.
God did amazing things both for the kids and for myself. Many of them had never prayed for someone or witnessed to someone, but by the end of the camp I had to tell them to hurry up otherwise we would be late. Can you picture that? Youth that are so on fire for God that they would stop and pray for everyone they see? It was awesome to witness and be a part of.
Thursday night , the night of nights, was an experience I have not had before, or at least for awhile. I was part of a prayer anointing line, just praying for people like I normally do. However, something changed and I began to pray like I have not prayed before. Between us, I think God took me to another level in the spiritual realm. Which was a surprise to me, because I'm the last person who deserves it. Nonetheless, somethings are changing and I feel I have so much more direction and clarity for my life right now.
I'm really really REALLY excited about the future, for no reason in particular, just because.
I'm back after an amazing week at a youth camp. I was a group leader of a few youth from feet on the street in Reading. The boot-camp took place in Reading, Pa and was focused on evangelism. We did outreaches into Reading everyday, as well as work projects cleaning up the area. If you drive through Reading in the next few days, chances are you will see something we painted.
God did amazing things both for the kids and for myself. Many of them had never prayed for someone or witnessed to someone, but by the end of the camp I had to tell them to hurry up otherwise we would be late. Can you picture that? Youth that are so on fire for God that they would stop and pray for everyone they see? It was awesome to witness and be a part of.
Thursday night , the night of nights, was an experience I have not had before, or at least for awhile. I was part of a prayer anointing line, just praying for people like I normally do. However, something changed and I began to pray like I have not prayed before. Between us, I think God took me to another level in the spiritual realm. Which was a surprise to me, because I'm the last person who deserves it. Nonetheless, somethings are changing and I feel I have so much more direction and clarity for my life right now.
I'm really really REALLY excited about the future, for no reason in particular, just because.
- Worship
- Prayer
Remember these two things, it's what will change the world. Notice change not Challenge.
Just when you think it's over, God says now let's begin.
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