June 11th has arrived.

This is what we all have been waiting for. This day started out on a sad note. We learned over night, after the opening concert featuring the likes of: Angelique Kidjo, John Legend, Alicia Keys and Shakira; while in transit home; Madibas' {Nelson Mandela} great granddaughter, Zenani Mandela; just 2 days past her 13th birthday, was a victim by way of being a passenger of a drunk driver. The family driver, who is now being charged by the authorities, admitted to consuming alcohol at the party and then getting behind the wheel. SIGH!!! The Mandela Foundation asked for prayers for the family and excused the 90 + yr old, as they are all in shock and mourning their loss.

The kick off between Mexico and the host nation South Africa was a wonderful way to begin the day here in a very warm and humid day in Chicago... With temps reaching in the upper 80's, Tanja and I watched the celebration, until I was called into work at the 15 minute mark. Sigh!!!

"Oh well, it is being taped" I spewed, as I dashed out... To my surprise we finished earlier than I had anticipated so, the 2nd game of France vs Uruguay was viewed during our lunch time hours.
Armed with Brie Cheese and a Baguette, ***[Go France]*** my Tanja watched from her bedroom, due to a ill feelings onset. I hope it is just a 24 hour bug! I took up residence in the "Price Fan Park", until the mosquito's scored several times. 10 min's into the match, I decided to join the the dog,who enjoys the climate control environment of our living room.

Here is a look into our homemade viewing area, which is setup like a mini fan park with the various soccer nations hanging above our heads, as we sit comfortably eating and drinking. For anyone interested in watching the matches know that we will be having an open house daily, until we depart for Capetown. Join us this Saturday June 12, 2010 at 12:30 CST. On the menu will be chicken curry and english ale as the USA takes on England. Oh yeah , I have apple pie and beef hot dogs for the USA fans as well... of course Budweiser could not be forgotten. Cheers for now!