Day 18: 19th February 2013

“Being imperfect doesn’t disqualify us from serving God; it just emphasizes our dependence on His mercy.” RBC

Rolled out of bed at 6:30am this morning. A bit late for travelling but feel quite tired after yesterday’s extra 200Km push. Was hoping to dry off the tents well ,but guess what? Soft gentle rain! Sigh!

Packed up for the final time on this trip and hit the road. Boy the feeling of reaching Cape Town is euphoric. I need to concentrate though because the stats say that most of the accidents happen towards the end of your long journey.

We decided to skip our usual breakfast and have a Wimpy breakfast in Klawer. Awesome!! Sooooooooo good to taste a fried egg again. man it has been a while. Ok just a few days. The last 100Km into Cape Town always seem to take the longest of the whole journey. So looking forward to seeing the family.

Awesome trip into Cape Town except for my stabilizer bush ends seem to have gone again and now my front tyres are wrecked again. It happens so quickly. The wear is so strange so will need to really get some expert advise.

Wonderful to be reunited with the family again! Thank you for all your prayers and support! A very good trip all round. I think I am going to need a few days to recover but I have an awesome family to take care of me. God bless!

“Lord thank You so very much for a very safe trip. We know that your angels had a big task keeping us safe and for that we are grateful. Thank You for and Awesome time with Pastor John and Dave. The Lord bless you guys!”

9000km down and 0Km to go!

Day 17: 18th February 2013

“When your outlook is blurred by problems, focus on Christ.” RBC

Had an awesome sleep last night. In the middle of the night a good wind came up and brought some rain, but not much. Fortunately the wind continued so that by the time the sun was up the tents were all dry. A perfect situation. We made some very good time down to the border.

The border at Noordoewer was as usual as hot as hell! This place can get up to 50deg Celsius in the day. The South African border took a while again as we had to get the vehicle and trailer imported for another three months. Just paperwork and the speed of the guy behind the computer.  It was then 40/40. It is a 40Km climb out of the valley with the temperature well into the 40 deg Celsius. Boy I had to keep my eye on the temperature gauge. For about 1/2 an hour you are creeping up out of the valley at about 40Km per hour with the temperature gauge sitting just below the red. Thank you Lord that we made it without any problems!

We had planned to sleep at Springbok again, but got there early so we decided to push on and eventually found a spot at a place called Nuwerus. This looks like one of those towns where everybody and his dog spend their lives “russing” ( resting). This evening it feels quite cold so hopefully going to join the community and rest well.

“Thank you Lord for a good border crossing and that the vehicle never exploded from the heat. Thank you for a beautiful evening with beautiful stars.’

*600Km down and $00Km to go.

Day 16: 17th February 2013

“Christ’s love creates unity in the midst of diversity.” RBC

Rolled out of bed at about 5am this morning and boiled water for our usual cup of coffee and for the road later in the day. Awesome to drive off with the sunrise behind you. The grass looked like golden wheat in the morning sun.

Well had an eventful day. You never enjoy them but they do make memories. We stopped in Otjiwarongo to draw some money and get some eggs at the Spar. While I was in the shops some local thieves pulled the classic move on John and Dave. They distracted them by saying that there is something wrong under the trailer and then managed to steal Dave’s cell phone. What a hassle as Dave had his phone on International roaming so these guys could potentially run up a bill of thousands of Rands. We quickly had to make contact with his son in South Africa and get him to call Vodacom and stop the sim. A real downer!!!!

The rest of the trip went well, just seemed very long today. We only arrived in Mariental at 6pm. So it was about a 12 hours days drive. From midday on it became really hot again. I was also stopped outside Windhoek at a regular police check point and the Policeman wanted to fine me because I have a crack in the front window. Well no kidding every single Zambian car has a crack somewhere in the front window. Any way after explaining to him that it was Sunday he just waved us on. may need to get another one as it is quite a crack but it has been like that for about 5 years. It is just that when I had the last one replaced within a month a stone hit and cracked this one so what is the point?

At least things have cooled down a bit tonight. I am looking so forward to a good sleep. Felt like the day was extremely long and hot!

“Thank you Lord that no passports or money were stolen. We do pray that you will bring conviction upon the thief and that out of this seemingly bad incident good will come.”

7800Km down and 1200Km to go.

Day 15: 16th February 2013

“As the blossom can’t tell what becomes of its fragrance, we can’t tell what becomes of our influence.” RBC

What an awesome experience waking up next to the mighty Zambezi River. So much water flowing past!

We had a wonderful uneventful trip across the Caprivi today. It is so green yet the further we crossed the drier it began to look.

But what a wonderful surprise we came across a pack of about 20 wild dogs. In all my years of driving this route I have never seen any wild dogs. They seemed so tame yet there was not a chance that I was getting out to pat any. At least they all looked pretty healthy so there must be food around.

Arrived at Roy’s Camp at about 4:30pm. It was a great day of driving and we were able to cover a good distance.

“Thank you Lord for a wonderful day and the awesome privilege of being able to see that pack of wild dogs.”

6900 down and 2100 to go.

Day 14: 15 February 2013

“Every good gift comes from the Father.” RBC

Had a wonderful nights rest! Awesome. We were able to spend the morning at the Livingstone Museum. They have a special exhibit on Dr David Livingstone. Wow it was fantastic. They even had some of his original letters that he wrote.

We were then able to have a lovely cup of coffee and Kubu Coffee shop with our hosts before heading off to the Airport to pick up Dave. Dave is meeting us in Livingstone and travelling back down to Cape Town so that we can have some time to chat.

And so soon after 2pm we head for the Namibian border which is 200Km away. The road is really deteriorating now and some urgent attention is required. We made the border in good time. A complete shock when the custom official informs me that we can only take the vehicle out for 30days. If I want it for longer I have to go through an agent and export it and then re-import it on our way beck. This was going to cost over R 2500. Oh Africa can’t we just keep the laws we have instead of changing all the time. After a very humble talk with the head of customs we found a way around the whole situation. He was explaining to me how the crooks are stealing cars by using an temporary export permit. Again the actions of the few controlling the many!

Eventually made it to Namwi Island Campsite , which is on the banks of the Zambezi River. Wow the river has risen in the last two weeks. The road is a mud bath!!

Had an awesome evening and a good rest. Fortunately no rain.

“ Lord thank you for getting us through the border and a safe drive over that very rough road.”

6200 Km down and 2800Km to go.

Day 13: 14th February 2013

“The content of the Bible must be brought into contact with the world.“ RBC

Oh no!!!!! Just did a once over of the vehicle and trailer and see that I have again cracked the chassis!! Oh boy my welding has not held.

Fortunately Eurika campsite is situated on a farm. Went to find the owner and chatted with him to see if his welder could not help us out. Wow what a nice guy. After an hour and about 20 welding rods we have a solid weld and brace. Man I wish I could weld like that.

As we looked at it, it was far worse than I first thought. so glad we got it repaired. Need to really sort it out in Cape Town but will have to remove the tank to really get it braced well.

So after 10am we left for Livingstone. The first part up to Mazibuka was so slow. The road had deteriorated so much since we drove it two weeks ago. There seems to be a lot of trucks carrying copper so they must be exporting it out of Walvis Bay. Oh no poor Namibian roads!

Once through Mazibuka the road opened up and we made good time. We tried to make contact with Naas and Maybeline who live in Livingstone to stop by and say hi, but the cell no we had did not work. Well onto the net and Facebook and we found Naas. We left him a message and by the time we reached Livingstone he had replied and we had made contact. Wow for modern technology!!

Had an awesome rest with the Terblanche’s. A good meal, rest and companionship.

“Lord thank you for that farmer and his welder who were able to weld that Chassis for us. You do go before us and we thank you so very much!”

6000Km down and 3000Km to go.

Day 12: 13th February 2013

“All life is created by God and bears His autograph.” RBC

Thank you Lyle for an awesome stay! Sorry that you were not there but hoping that you are enjoying your time at the dam.

No rush was the motto this morning, like the calm before the storm. Once we really get on the road it is drive drive drive, so enjoying the rest.

Everything worked out well. We were able to meet the dental technician and get Joel’s brace and then it was off to Lusaka. Do not enjoy this road, always very busy with either folks speeding dangerously or old worn out trucks literally doing 30km an hour and holding up the works.

Just last week a bus and a truck were involved in a head on collision on this very road where 53 people died. Drove past the scene and saw the cab of the truck. Not a pretty sight!!

The drive was better than expected and we made Lusaka in good time and went and had the famous Butter Chicken from Curry in a Hurry. Awesome meal!! It was then off to Eurika Campsite and because of the rain we decided to take a small A frame chalet. Had an awesome sleep and rest.

“Lord thank you for a great safe drive again and a wonderful meal and safe dry rest.”

5600Km down and 3400Km to go.

Day 11: 12th February 2013

“No life is more secure than a life surrendered to God.” RBC

Woke up to an absolutely awesome breakfast again at Thorn Tree. Wow is all I can say. Feel a lot stronger today and ready to hit the Great North Road again.

When driving in Zambia you not only have to think for yourself but for all the other drivers around you. You are always driving very defensively and this can be very stressful and tiring.

We are making our way to Lyle Hall, in Kabwe, today so that we can collect Joel’s brace for his teeth that have been repaired. A good uneventful trip. These are always the best trips, not memorable, but best. You always remember the disastrous trips but never desire them. Strange paradox.

We experienced rain and good cloud cover for most of the way. Wonderfully the road was not as busy as expected and we were able to make good time considering that we left Kasama later than anticipated.

“Thank you Lord for a great safe days trip!!”

5400Km down and 3600Km to go.

Day 10: 11th February 2013

“When you know God’s grace, you’ll want to show God’s grace.” RBC

Court day! Well that was what was planned. Travelled from Mbala yesterday and had a wonderful stay at Thorn Tree again.

The day was spent down at the court and at the end of it I think I have 5cm forward and a good sun tan from just standing around. Well as far as the latest concerns. The court forgot our case file in Ndola so the case was not going to happen. Sigh Sigh Sigh. But Mr Ntumbi did not pitch or show any sign of coming. But also while in Mbala I was able to visit the farm and found that he has ploughed the whole farm in contravention to a court order. And so basically he is in contempt of court, trouble. We will continue when we return in April.

How do I feel? Disappointed that it is not over but still having some hope in the justice system. Basically it is all we can do. I finally got back to the Guesthouse at about 4 in the afternoon and just felt so drained. I think all the pressure and driving is starting to catch up, but we are heading south again, back to Lynne and the children. Gee I miss them so much.

“Lord I do not understand why this court issue is taking so long, but I leave it in Your Hands, The Great Advocate.”

4700Km down and 4300Km to go.

 

Day 9: 4th February 2013

“Love your neighbour— even if they aren’t your kind!”RBC

Today is the day we reach Mbala!!!! However, our first stop is a visit to the lawyers to start preparations for the court case on 11th February. It was good just for them to see that I am in the country and back in the Northern Province.

It was then we headed off on the last stretch of our journey to Mbala. Awesome to be back home!. Spent the afternoon trying to connect our water pump. Eventually we have water in the house. But no hot water!!! After hours spent searching and have to borrow a multi meter we discover the element is blown! Strange as it was turned off all this time?

Oh well bucket baths from here on out. Lots to do and get sorted before we start our return trip on Sunday afternoon. Really missing the family so much.

“Lord thank you for your safety on the road for all these Km!”

4500Km complete and 4500km to go.

“HALFWAY”

Day 8: 3 February 2013

“Contentment should not be affected by external forces but should stem from a heart at peace with God”

Woke up this morning to a soft drizzle of rain which lasted about half an hour. At least this morning we did not have to rush off again as we only had about 300km to travel today.

Again just taken aback by the beauty of this place! By 11am it was goodbye and back on the road. Today the Great North Road seemed a lot quieter.

Had an awesome uneventful drive to Kasama where we spent the night at Thorn Tree Guesthouse. First time in a week we are sleeping in a bed. I think that we both feel we would love to  have our wives with us. So much beauty and experiences to share.

Awesome day!!

“Thank you Lord for a good day and a nice bed.”

4300km down and 4700Km to go!

Day 7: 2 February 2013

“Trusting God’s faithfulness dispels our fearfulness.” RBC

Wow! Can’t believe that we are in a new month already. Kind of felt I missed the first day with all the busyness of Lusaka.

Today's drive took us on the Great North Road. This is Zambia new “Hell” road. I think we counted 7 truck accidents and break downs. Only as a very last resort would I attempt to drive this road at night.

We spent the large part of the day driving in some heavy rain. I guess this will test whether Christy’s Sports really did repair my roof top tent cover. Boy it pelted.

Our stop tonight is a campsite called Mutonondo. It is a great place about 25Km of the main Great North road but well worth the effort. It is situated on a 10 000 hector conservancy so it is great to see Zambia’s nature without human nature intervention. Truly beautiful.

I can’t believe that we have been on the road for 7 days now. When will it end? We had such an awesome evening sitting by the fire. So peaceful and tranquil. Well the roof top tent cover held out remarkably well so it is with great anticipation I will sleep in a dry bed tonight.

I had to climb up a hill to try and get cell reception just to let the family know that we are safe and to find out how they are doing. There are still places in this world where you struggle to communicate using modern technology. Not all bad though.

“Thank You Lord for this beauty that surrounds us camping here tonight.”

4000Km driven and 5000Km to go!

Day 6: 1 February 2013

“We pray not to obtain our will in heaven, but to effect God’s will on earth.” RBC

Yeah we can sleep a little later or lie in for a bit as we can only attempt to enter Lusaka after 9am because of the traffic. It is absolutely horrendous!!!!!

Well for us today it worked out great. For some reason our flow of traffic moved easily but the on coming traffic was a standstill nightmare. First stop was to get some wall tiles to complete a job at home in Mbala. Then onto Immigration where, yes believe it or not my Residence Permit was ready. Yes the system does still work!

From there it was off to Livestock Service to get some vet supplies for the animals at home. Last port of call was Manda Hill. Had an awesome cup of coffee and dropped of the parcel we brought for somebody.

It was then back into the traffic and off to Kabwe. It is such a short distance yet it seems to take forever. It is literally only 140Km yet feels like 300km.

Spent a great evening with the Halls. Dropped off some goodies they wanted from SA and also Joel’s brace for he teeth that needed to be repaired. had a good safe but noisy sleep with all the dogs in the neighbourhood barking for most of the night.

“3540Km travelled and 5460Km to go.

“Lord thank You for the Residence Permit and the safe travel out of Lusaka.”

Day 5: 31 January 2013

“You may give without loving, but you can’t love without giving.” RBC

Wow it is something to wake up next to the Zambezi River. had our usual usual coffee and headed to fill up with fuel. R 1700 and full with 220l of diesel we head off to cross the border into Zambia.

The road between the border and Livingston has really deteriorated in the last three months but we managed to negotiate it without any breakages! Really starting to feel tired today!! It has been 4 hard days of driving. So looking forward to a morning break in Lusaka tom before heading off to Kabwe.

Stopped in Livingston to draw some money and get some ice for our cooler. Still trying to get my head around the new money that was introduced in January. At the moment Zambia is on a dual currency system and so you are working with the old and the new at the same time. Have not seen a new coin yet.

The rest of the day was pretty uneventful except for seeing two truck accidents in the Munali Hills pass. Boy has this pass buried many a truck and its driver! We hit our first real rainstorm so that gave the vehicle a good wash.

Coming into Lusaka is always so slow!! We quickly set up camp and thanks to Franci had some awesome curry and rice. looking forward to a good nights rest and a later morning as we only have to head into Lusaka at about 9am to run some errands.

“Thank you Lord for safe travels today”

3400Km down and 5600Km to go.

 

Day 4: 30 January 2013

“Obedience to God’s Word is the Christian’s greatest freedom.” RBC

Rolled out of bed at 5:30am and starting to look and feel a bit the worse for wear. Just another 700Km to drive today. Downed a quick cup of coffee with the usual rusk, packed up camp and headed out into the sunrise. Gosh it is beginning to sound like a Louis Lamoure novel!

For most part of the day we are going to be hurtling across the Caprivi Strip in an easterly direction. It is amazing how the vegetation and topography begins to change. Gone are the arid mountainous deserts of the south and hello to flat lush green vegetation.

We were even more blessed today to see a herd of elephant who had just crossed the road. This part of the world is still the Real Africa!!

We made it safely to Katima Mulilo where tonight we bed down next to the great and mighty Zambezi River. I picture God taking His finger and drawing a wiggly line in the sand and there we have this awesome river today. The manager of the Camp site expects the river to flood in the next two to three weeks. Nothing can stop the power of this mighty river.

Travelled 2600Km and have 6400Km to go.

“Lord thank You for the beautiful elephants You have created for us to enjoy!”