Had an interesting conversation over lunch today - about the relevance of the traditional approach to education, today.

Why do we teach the way we do? Why do we accept an antiquated approach, when the world is the domain of the technolit? What is the alternative?

Hmm.

Back from the Orange River, which I did with a few young folk from school. What a trip. Hot. Hot. Hot. At least the company was great and the food more than palatable. River Rafters & Bundi got us there and back again - and save for the murder of all the paddling and the suicide of the road trip, I’d do it all again in a heart beat. Roll on 2008!

Two weeks of holiday still await - though the trip to Pretoria feels less like a holiday than living here - which just goes to show that Franschhoek is a far too idyllic a place. The local literary festival is coming up and it'll be interesting to see who gets their poems published as part of the run-up to the event. Today we're off to see our friend Geddan finish the Cape Epic. It doesn’t look as if he and his partner can win the mixed event, but he seems to do better and better each day so a good showing is no doubt on the cards.

As I drove home this afternoon – earlier than usual, which makes a welcome change – I couldn’t help but feel that Franschhoek was gripped in a state of lethargy that anywhere else, would make me feel guilty. But here – in what remains my heaven on earth – it’s apt, appropriate, and right. Franschhoek is a holiday destination. Even for those who live here. Especially for those who live here.

School’s out this Friday – yay. A trip down the Orange River awaits. I haven’t started packing yet, or found my passport, so guess it’s time to stress a bit. If push comes to shove I guess I can get hold of any one of the many fake passport/drivers license/road worthy certificate guys and get them to help out. Crazy the things that are going on in the public sector. I think I liked it more when we complained that nothing was happening.

What sad news in the middle of this holiday atmosphere to hear of Bob Woolmer’s death. My condolences go to his family – especially being so far from him at the time that everything transpired. May you find strength in the memories you have of him. I can’t help but wonder about what happened. I have been speculating with the rest of the world concerning the dubious circumstances that surround this great player, accomplished coach and all round nice guy’s death so soon after his team’s unexpected exit for the 2007 World Cup. Will Hansie Cronje’s name come up in conversations? Will betting and bookies and the Sub Continent be mentioned? Will we be satisfied with “stress induced heart attack” – as suggested by his son? Time will tell. Fare well Bob. May every moment of eternity be filled with glorious cover drives and insanely short boundaries!